TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 38 (Part V) 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 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY U.S. War Department J~AG~. CL ~ GIFT O Title Page Page 1 THE T X~AR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL ]RECOIRD~ ON TIlE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. 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 XXXVIIIIN FIVE PARTS. PART VCORRESPONDENCE, ETC. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1 8 91. Page 2 A ~ 7 I/,2c~ K A. LJ-03 f CORNEL~~ UNIVER~!T\ LIBRA~Y Page 3 PAIRIi V.VOL. XXXVIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN, FROM JULY 1, 1864, TO SEPTEMiI3ER 8, 1864.* UNIOiN CORR1~SPONDENCE, IETC. NEAR KENESAW, July 1, 1864. (Received 1 p. m. 2d.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: General Thomas offered General Crittenden a good divisiomButter- fields, in Hookers corpsbut Critteuden declines, on the ground that he formerly commanded a corps in the same army. A division is the legitimate command of a major-general, and he having declined I am released of the promise made through you to give General Crittenden a command. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR KENESAW, GA., July 1, 18649.30 p. m. (Received 12 m. 2d.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: General Schofield is now south of Olleys Creek, and on the head of Nickajack. I have been hurrying down provisions and forage, and to- morrow night propose to move General McPherson from the left to the extreme right, back of General Thomas. This will bring my right within three miles of Chattahoochee and about five of the railroad. By this movement I think I can force Johnston to move his army down from Kenesaw, to defend his railroad crossing and the Chattahoochee, when I will, by the left flank, reach the railroad below Marietta; but I cut loose from the railroad with ten days supplies in wagons. John- ston may come out of his intrenehinents and attack General Thom~is, which is what I want, for General Thomas is well intre~uiched, parallel with the enemy, south of Kenesaw. I think Allatoona and the line ot the Etowah are strong enough for inc to venture on this move. The movement is substantially down the Sandtown road, straight for Atlanta. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. * For Corre~pondeuee, etc., from May 1 to June 30, 1864, see Part Iv. (3 Page 4 4 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. FRANKFORT, Ky., July 1, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I have just been relieved from the command of a gallant division in the Army of the Potomac at my own request, because most of the corps commanders were my juniors. Gladly as I would serve under you, yet I do not desire the command of a division in an army where I have commanded a corps and where most of the corps commanders are my juniors. T. L. URITTENDEN, lJfajor- General. llnQns. MILITARY DIvIsIoN OF THE Mississi~~i, in the Field, near Kenesaw, July 1, 1864. General CRITTENDEN, FranAfort, Ky.: I think you make a great mistake in declining a division, which is a major-generals command. You could not expect a corps commander to be removed to give place to you. Still, you had the offer of a good division, which is now withdrawn, and General Thomas says he has no other command to offer you. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DivIsI-ox o~ THE Mississw~i, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 1, 1864. A. ANDERSON, General Supt. of Military Railroads, Nashville: I hear Mr. Taylor, the new superintendent, spoken of very highly. Bear in mind that these are war times and all must incur some risk. We here will do our share, but if the road or wires to the rear are in- terrupted, the repair must come mostly from your end. Keep Colonel McCallum advised that he must be prepared to lose half a dozen or more trains every month by guerrillas and dashes at the road which cannot be prevented. . T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NASHVILLE, July 1, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: We have made and continue to make large preparations for contin- gencies, loss of trains, and the like. We receive five to eight new engines per week and average over thirty cars per week. In July the number of cars receiVed will be much greater. No pains, effort, or ex- pense will be spared on our part. A. ANDERSON, General Superintendent Page 5 CEiP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 5 LOST MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, GA., July 1, 18647.30 p. m. Capt. C. R. CASE, Chief Signal Officer, Department of the Cumberland: Have opened with Captain Daniels chief signal officer, Twenty-third Army Corps, sonth 40 degrees east, seven miles distant. Had fair view of Atlanta this evening. See fires iii Marietta. No other rebel fires in sight. HOWGATE, Lieutenant, Aetinfj Signal Officer. HDQRS. MIL1TARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Ken esaw, July 1, 1864. General THOMAs: Let yonr artillery and skirmishers stir np the enemy a little this evening and to-niorrow morning. I fear they are getting too strong on General Schofield, who has gone farther toward Rnffs Mill than I contemplated. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Iilic~jor- General, Commanding. (Same to McPherson.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., July 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Let yonr artillery stir np the enemy this evening and to- morrow morning. It is feared they are getting too strong on General Schofield. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- Gen al. (Same to Pahner and Hooker.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, in the Field, July 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, 6~ommanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: In the directions given this evening to stir np the enemy with artillery I shonld have said skirmishers and artillery. I desire now to make that correction. Very respectfnlly, yonr obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Palmer and Hooker. Page 6 6 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY Coups, In the Field, near Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., July 1, 1864. Major-General STANLEY, First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: You will relieve General Newtons troops as soon as it is dark to-night, extending your line on the left as far as Sutermeisters battery. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, in the Field, July 1, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of ~tafr; Department q/ the Cumberland: III am informed by General Baird that he has already relieved not only General Geary but also a part of General Williams command, and General Williams has notified him this morning that he is about to draw out the rest of his force. I do not understand this or upon what grounds it is expected that all the men of Bairds division are to be forced into the lines. If ordered by proper authority it will be done, but J will not allow of it otherwise. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Kenesaw Jllountain, Ga., July 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Major-General Thomas has seen your note of this a. in., and directs me to say that he has no objection to your relieving, by General Bairds division, one briga(le of General Williams, but that you will do no more. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Kenesaw Mountain, July 1, 1864. Surg. G. E. COOPER, Miedica I Director, Department of the Cumberiand: First. I recognize the authority of the Surgeon-General or Assistant Surgeon-General to assign to duty and relieve from duty officers of the medical department with this army, provided that they report to me that such officers are assigned to or relieved from duty in my army. The commander of an army cannot exercise the proper control over it unless he has authority to regulate all its details. Second. I consider the general hospitals wherever established under the control of the Surgeon-General U. S. Army, but should he desire the services of any medical officer of this army with any of the general hos- pitals, he must procure such by proper application and orders throug Page 7 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 7 the army commander to which such medical officers belong. Any other, proceeding is ruinous to discipline as well as an efficieiit working of the details of army administration. Third. The Sanitary and Christian Commissions have done much good when we have been fortunate enongh to deal with sensible and public spirited agents, bnt it has occnrred to me that frequently complaints have been made when there has been no earthly necessity for them, and many obstacles to the efficient working of the medical department interposed, either absolutely or by insinuation, which has caused much embarrass- ment, and ultimately resulted in unnecessary suffering to the wounded and sick of our armies. Both institutions have done much good, but they would do much more if their agents confined themselves to their legitimate duties under the direction of the medical department of the army, the alleviation of the suffering of our sick and wounded soldiers, and not to pointing out whenever officers of the medical department have neglected their duties. It has been my experience to observe that when a new bureau or separate department of the military service has been or attempted to be established that the officers of that bureau make a point to decry all other departments which might interfere with its complete success. So with the Sanitary and Christian Commissions. They have caused much trouble and could be easily dispensed with for the good of the service, as their duties are legitimately those of and should be performed by the medical department. Very respectfully, GEG H. THOMAS, Miajor- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 1, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Stonemnan reports the enemy~s cavalry in strong force west of Sweet Water toward Villa Rica. He thinks it will not do to cross to the east of Sweet Water, leaving the enemy in his rear. J. N. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 1, 18649.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Stoneman crossed the Sweet Water just below the mouth of Powder Springs Creek at 7 oclock, and is pushing toward Sweet Water Town. Hascall is progressing satisfactorily. Will be able to give you more definite information soon. J. N. SCHOFIELD, ]IJlajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, [July 1, 1864.] General SCHOFIELD: It is not reasonable to suppose Joe Johnston will keep at Villa Rica anything more than a cavalry force of observation. If General Stone. man deems it impossible to occupy the position of Sweet Water Town Page 8 8 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. let him take position across Sweet Water Creek, below Powder Springs, and put a regiment in observation near Salt Springs, on the road be- tween Villa Rica and Sweet Water Towii. The enemys cavalry force will then be divided, and that is what I want. MT T. SHERMAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 1, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have ordered the telegraph wire to follow. To what point do you want it i Leave some person to show the road to the repair party. Is there a practicable road from Clarks across by Byrds position to that of Reilly l I want Stoneman, if necessary, to fight hard for that posi- tion at Sweet Water. Did you get a fair proportion of the stores yes- terday ~ W. T. SHERMAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. ScHOFIELDs HEADQUARTERS, July 1, 1864. Majoi~-General SHERMAN: I shall want the telegraph line to Cheneys or some point beyond. I will have a man show the way. There is a good road from Glarks to Byrds position, and from there to Reillys. I think Stoneman will get the position. He was here last evening and understands the impor- tance of it. My trains were loaded last night. I have not heard what amount they got, but presume a fair share. My troops are moving. I am about starting to the front, and will keep you advised of our prog- ress. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Miajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 1, 18643 p. m. Major.General SHERMAN: We have advanced as far as the cross-roads, meetino with a stubborn resistance all the way. The enemys force seems to be increasing. I am now trying to get the point where the Marietta and Huffs Mill roads intersect, which is about half a mile to the left of the Sandtown road. My position will be very extended. J. M. SCHOFIELD, .Mlajor- General. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE Mississippi, in the Field near Kenesaw Mountain, July 1, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: According to my maps, the position at Wades was as far as I ex- pected you to take. I intended to put McPherson at Ruffs and Daniels Mills and at Widow Mitchells; but hold fast all you make, and intreuch. Let me be fully advised to-night. W. T. SHERMAN, 1Ift~jor- General, Commanding Page 9 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 9 SCHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, July 1, 18649 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: The line has been down, so that I conid not commnnicate with yon till now. I got yonr dispatches abont the position yon desired me to take and abont Stonemans movements. I fonnd t necessary to go beyond Wades abont three-qnarters of a mile to get control of the roads. I have got the desired position and am intrenching seenrely. The Powder Springs road comes in at Wades; the linifs Mill road branches off one-qnarter of a mile beyond Wades~ ~ind intersects the Marietta road at Moss, only qnarter of a mile from the Sandtown road, on which we moved. The Marietta road comes into the Sandtown road only half a mile from Moss, and three-quarters of a mile from Wades. ilascall holds all those cross-roads, and his position is good. His artil- lery reaches the Nickajack, and his pickets are near it. The enemy seems to be in force beyond the creek. There is a cross-road leaving the Sandtown road abont half a mile in front of Reilly and joining the Marietta road abont half a mile to the left of Hascall. Cox has a bri- gade on that cross-road commanding the Marietta road. The rest of his troops are in their old position. I do not hear anything of Colonel Barter being relieved. I now need him very much. My two divis- ions are too far apart to snpport each other, bnt their positions are good. We Will make them as strong as possible, and hold what we have if it is in onr power. Stoneinan reports this evening that he has found only a small rebel force west of the Sweet Water. He sent a de- tachnment to Sweet Water Town and found the bridge there strongly guarded. I will send him yonr iustrnctions. My loss to-day is not more than 50 killed and wounded, among them some valnable officers. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MIssIsswuI, In the Field, July 1, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: If yon apprehend the want of help I can order McPherson to send a division at once. Your positions all seem good. The bridge at Sweet Water is held by cavalry, of course, who will quit as soon as McPherson reaches Mrs. Mitchells. He will not 0-ct there till the day after to. morrow. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 1, 18649.45 p. inn. Major-General SHERMAN: I think it would be well for McPherson to send a division to-night. My positions are too inmportant to be hazarded. There appears no force in my front this evening that can drive me away, but of course I cannot tell what there may be in the muorning. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General Page 10 10 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [OSAP. L. JULY 1, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: I have ordered General McPherson to send a division to YOU to start at 4 a. in., and have a copy of your dispatch to General Thomas. W. T. SHERMAN, llliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS: General Geary is not able to relieve Colonel Barters brigade, of Gen. eral Coxs division, which is on this side of Olleys Creek. It is impor- tant for me to have that brigade beyond the creek, as at best my line will be quite extended; but it will probably suffice if the brigade be relieved at aiiy time during the day. J. M. SCHOFIELD (Copy sent to General Sherman.) M~or- Ge~er~ti. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, in the Field, Ga., July 1, 18649 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Gommanding Carairy Corps, Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have just received your dispatch of 6.15 p. in. I inclose one from General Sherman, giving his views, & c.~ Hascall has reached the cross-roads at Watsons and William Moss. Butler connects with Hascalls right, but has not been able to advance his own right. It occurs to me that you might, according to General Shermans plan, push a larger force down this side of Sweet Water, and press the enemy back from the bridge at Sweet Water Town. However, I leave this for you to judge. I have not yet heard what is to be done to-morrow; will let you know as soon as I learn. Please send me a man to carry a dispatch to you. I doubt whether one of mine could find you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]Iliajor- General, Commanding HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS Lynchs, Prida Brigadier-General HASCALL, p Evening, July 1, 1864. Commanding & eond Division: GENERAL: My line of skirmishers connecting with Colonel Byrds brigade is so long that I find it will be impossible for me to alter it to- night, and I must therefore request you to leave Colonel Hobsons line where it is till morning, as Colonel Cameron has already eleven coin- panies on the skirmish hue toward my center. My whole skirmish line is over three miles long, and you will appreciate my embarrassment in keeping it up, to say nothing of adding to it. Truly, yours, J.D. COX, Brigadier- General, commanding. See p. 7 Page 11 CUAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 11 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 1, 186410.15 p. m. Brig. Gen. N. S. JIIASCALL, Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: General McPherson is ordered to send a division to sup- port us in the morning, to start at 4 a. m. I have directed General Cox if you are attacked in the morning to support you with all his availa- ble force, relying upon General McPhersons troops to hold his present position and give what additional support may be necessary. Make your defenses strong and extend them far enough to deploy your whole division if necessary. You can then hold in check anything the enemy may send until re-enforcements can reach you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. N. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 1, 18641O.l5p. m. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: I have not yet learned whether Barter will be relieved to-night. But General McPherson is to send a division to support us in the morning; it is to start at 4 a. in. Hence, if~ascall or Cameron should be attacked in the morning you can support them with all your available force, relying upon General McPhersons troops to hold yoar present position and give what additional support may be necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. N. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, ~i7ommanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 1, 1864. General MCPHERSON: General Schofield to-day had advanced farther than I contemplated. He has control of all the roads from Reeds to Maples. You know his command is small, and though there is no force now that can disturb him, he thinks there may be in the morning. I want you to start one of your divisions down about 4 a. in., and to act in support of Schofield until your command gets there the next day. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, July 1, 1864. Major-General MCPHERSON, Commanding - Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: Within the last hour two of the cavalry pickets in my front, belonging to the Fifth Georgia, came into my line. They report Wheeler in his camp in my front, but that lie has ordered four day Page 12 12 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. rations and forage to be issued, and that he intends to go to our rear. They spoke of Cartersyille as one point. They say, as every one says to me, that Wheeler draws forage for 15,000 horses. If Wheeler goes he can take with him about 8,000 men, and then leave enough to picket the right of their army. These deserters say the papers have bei~n abusing Wheeler for his in- activity and want of success, and for his losses and failures when lie has met me, and that he is now desirous of doing something to redeem his character. If Wheeler starts and I am to go after him, I should be ahead of him and across the Etowah before he gets there, somewhere in the neighborhood of Cartersville. This story has the air of probability, and I think it true; still, some- thing might prevent it. The proper place for a force to prevent a raid is north of the Etowah. Where I am, or anywhere in this vicinity, it is impossible to counter- act the movements of the enemys cavalry, as it is so much more numer- ous, and it can move out of sight and reach of my scouts and pickets, and cross the Etowah east of Canton, and still keep a force in my front. It seems large to say the enemy has 15,000 cavalry, but every one deserters, prisoners, & c.confirms it. Allow him 8,000, he then has two to my one and could spare 3,000 to make a raid. Wheeler is to start some time to-morrow or next day. If I can be spared would it not be well to have me move back to a position north of the Etowali, where I can interpose between him and his proposed raid ~ Very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRAIRD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. (Forwarded to General Sherman.) llnQns. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 1, 1864. General STEEDMAN, Chattanooga, Tenn.: To-morrow I propose to move in such a way that my communication with the railroad may be broken for some days, and great attention must be given to the line of the Etowah, especially Cartersville and Allatoona. Now that yoa have General John E. smiths division, send to Allatoona and Rome the two regiments that belong there that have been detained along the road. You will now have all of Lowes division of cavalry for guarding off to the east; it has heretofore been tied down to Kingston, but should now be over about Adairsville and Talking Rock, scouting all the time. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 1, 1864. General STEEDMAN: Dont fail to order Colonel Pugh to Allatoona, as he and his regi- ment will be needed there at once. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 13 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 13 HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARYIT CORPS, Kingston, Ga., July 1, 1864. - Col. GREEN B. BAUM, Gommanding & cond Brigade: SIR: You will embark three regiments of your command on cars im- mediately and proceed by rail, leaving the Seventeenth Iowa Infantry at Tilton, the Tenth Missouri Infantry at iResaca, and the Fifty-sixth Illinois Infantry one-half at Calhoun and one-half at Adairsville, the Eightieth Ohio Infantry at this place, establishing brigade headquar- ters at Besaca. Believe the troops stationed at these points, directing them to report to their commanding officer. You will patrol the road between the different stations garrisoned by your command, morning, evening, and once during the night. For additional instructions apply to the officers whom you relieve. The transportation belonging to your brigade will be stopped on its way out, under charge of Capt. Holly Skinner, assistai~t quartermaster. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRiCT OF NORTHERN ALABAMA, July 1, 1864. Major POLK, Assistant Adjutant- General: MAJOR: It gives me pleasure to call the attention of the general commanding to the activity of the troops in my district in carrying out my aggressive policy for the protection of the railroad. The following just received -from Colonel Anderson, Twelfth Indiana Cavalry: I have the guerrilla Parson Johnson and 4 of his men, mortally wounded, at Whitesburg, and shall have his entire gang to-night. I have Mead invested. The enemy has been attacked on the south side of the river seven times in the last two weeks, and always with success, damaging him more or less every time, with the loss of only 1 man killed and 4 wounded on our side. Their loss will reach 50 in killed, wounded, and prisoners. On the north side of the river I have a scout out every other day, to be absent two days. They have disposed of a number of guerrillas. Very respectfully, B. ~. GBANGER, Brigadier. General. CHATTANOOGA, July 1, 1864. General SMITH: The army will move to-morrow, and the greatest vigilance will be necessary, in the direction of Cartersville and Allatoona. Send at least half of Colonel Lowes command to Adairsville to scout the country to Talking Bock. JAMES B. STEEDMAK, 1JJi~or. General Page 14 14 THE- ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [Cii.u~. L. CAMP, RENESAW, GA., July 1, 186410 p. m. Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Assistant & tperintendent U. ~. Military Telegraph: To-day Schofield pushed off toward Fulton, extending our right nearly eight miles, and beginning the movement which is expected to give us Marietta or a fight in open field. Johnston discovered the move, and massed on his left toward evening, threatening Schofield and calling out [sic], and making a demonstration along the whole line, which will be renewed in the morning. Supplies come up now rapidly, and the whole army will have ten days~ on hand by to-morrow evening. Telegraph line followed Schofield, and he reports over it occurrences of to-day. No rain. J. C. YAK DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS,) IID QRS. Mw. Div. OF THE MISS., ~In the Field, near Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., No. 31. July 1, 1864. The object of the contemplated movement is to deprive the enemy of the great advantage lie has in Kenesaw as a valuable watchtower from which to observe our every movement; to force him to come out 9f his intrenchments or move farther south. To obtain which end: I. All army commanders will fill up their wagons at Big Shanty de- pot to the utmost capacity with provisions, ammunition, and forage. - The chief quartermaster and commissary will give all necessary orders to clean out the depots in front of Allatoona, and so instruct that the locomotives and cars will come forward of Allatoona with great caution, and only when ordered by the chief quartermaster. II. Major-General Thomas.will hold the ground below Kenesaw as far as Olleys Creek near Mount Zion, Major-General Schofield that from Olley~s Creek to the Kickajack, and General McPherson will move his train and troops rapidly in a single march and as little observed from Kenesaw as possible to the Sandtown road, and down it to the ex- treme right, with one corps near the Widow Mitchells, another near IL~ufls Mill, on the Kickajack, and the third in reserve near the forks of the road. JIlL. General Garrards cavalry will cover the roads out of Marietta which pass north of Kenesaw, and General Stonemans cavalry will occupy Sweet Water Old Town, coincident with the movement of Mc- Pherson. In case the enemy presses Garrard back by superior and overwhelming forces lie will send one of his brigades to the flank of General Thomas and with the others fall back gradually toward Alla- toona, disputing every foot of ground. JY. Major-General McPherson will threaten the Chattahoochee River and also the railroad, and General Thomas will press the enemy close and at the very earliest possible moment break his lines and reach the railroad below Marietta. All movements must be vigorous and rapid, as the time allowed is limited by the supplies in our wagons. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Gamp Page 15 CHAP. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15 SPECIAL FIELD ORDER ~ NEAR KENESAW MOUNTAIN, No. 56. July 1, 1864. * * * * * * * X. In accordance with instructions just received in following tele- gram* from Major-General Sherman, Major-General Logan, command- ing Fifteenth Army Corps, will direct the division of Brig. Gen. M. L. Smith to march to-morrow morning, 4 oclock, by a road to the rear of General Shermans headquarters until the Sandtown road is reached, upon which road the division will move to the support of Major-General Schofield, whose headquarters are at Cheneys Church, at the intersec- tion of the Marietta, Powder Spriiigs, and Sandtown roads. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, July 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I am inclined to think they are about to fall back from Kenesaw. They are evidently watching us closely. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. JULY 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy is aware that our wagons are moving to his left. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Has General Garrard been ordered to connect with me; and where has he been directed to have his headquarters l GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, ct~e. HDQRS. MILiTARY DIVISION OF THE MisSISSIPPi, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General THOMAS: He was notified two days ago to studytheroads and ground thoroughly. He will have his headquarters in the woods between Big shanty and the north point of Kenesaw. I will direct him to report to you. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. *See p. ii Page 16 16 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. JIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE Mississippi, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General THOMAS: General McPherson reports all ready to move to-night. Will you be ready for him to uncover the railroad by daylight to-morrow? W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Juty 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: General King will be in position to-night, and everything prepared. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. SHERMANS HEADQUAR~ERS, July 2, 18649.20 p. m. General THOMAS: General Harrow, one of McPhersons division commanders, reports that as he was about to withdraw from his position according to orders, the enemy advanced in column from the monntain and are forming in line of battle at his picket-line at 8 p. in., but I hear no firing. Have telegraphed McPherson that you have reason to believe that the enemy are retiring, and that I regard their coining out this time of night with ostentation to be evidence of their retiring, and have ordered Harrow not to withdraw now, but to feel the enemy and ascertain what he is about. You had better instruct the enemy to be felt at two or three convenient points of your line between this and midnight. We must not attempt any night movements with large forcesbecause confu- sion would resultbut must be prepared at break of day to act according to the very best information we can gather during the night. I have already re.enforced.* W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch of 9.20 p. m. received. The orders indicated will be given immediately. I have not learned that McCook has returned. He had orders to returli when Stoneinan had securely established his position. Lost Mountain has been signaled twice to-night, but he had not returned up to 9 p. m. GEO. H. THOMAS, ]Jilic~jor. General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 2, 1864. Major-General THOMAS: By the papers you sent me, I see Forrest is at Tupelo; that the enemy has detected the fact that a heavy force, under A. J. Smith, is Remainder of dispatch illegible. It probably refrrred to the re-enforcement of Schofield with Morgan L. Smith8 division of the Fifteenth Corps Page 17 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 moving out of Memphis, as they suppose, to re-enforce us. This will hold Forrest there. Now will be a good time for the raid from Decatur ou Opelika. It should cousist of not over 2,~OO cavalry. No wagons or artillery, or at most a section, and should move first on Pillow, at Oxford or Talladega, and then pass him rapidly, cross the Tallapoosa, and break up the road. If you agree with me I will order it now. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 2, .1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I think now would be a good time for the expedition to Opelika if you have any good officers to place in command. I have heard that lioddey also had moved west of Tuscumbia, evidently attracted in that direction by the movements of Smith. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND In the Field, near Kenesaw Mountain, July 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Kings division to-night moves into a position to be vacated by Major-General McPhersons troops. The ma- jor-general commanding directs that you to-night, after dark, take up the position indicated to you yesterday, now occupied by General Kings division and a portion of General McPhersons troops, your left resting on the Dallas and Marietta road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHJPPLE, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Jenesaw Mountain, July 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Major-General McPherson reports himself ready to move to-night. You will, therefore, please diifect General King to move his troops this evening after dark and take up the position pointed out yesterday by the major-general commanding. Major-General Howard will be directed to relieve Brigadier-General Thugs division. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. 2 R RvoL XXXVIII, PT Page 18 18 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, In the Field, July 2, 1864. (Received 11.40 p. in.) Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Cnnmanding Fourteenth Army Corp8: GENERAL: There is reason to believe that the enemy intends to with- draw to-night. The major-general commanding therefore directs that you feel the enemy at some point of your line to-night and in the morn- ing for the purpose of ascertaining whether he has done so. It will not do to attempt aity night movements with large forces, because confu- sion would result, but be prepared at break of (lay to act accordiiig to the very best information we can gaiu to-night. (A cueral Schofield has been re-enforced l)y one division from General McPherson. Brigadier- General Harrow reports that as he was about to withdraw from his po- sition, according to orders, the enemy advanced in column from the mountain and formed line of battle at his l)icket-line at ~ p. . This is thought by General Sherman to be a blind to cover their retreat. General Harrow has, however, been ordered not to withdraw now, but to feel the enemy and ascertain what he is about. General Howard will also be ordered to feel the enemy in his front between this and mid- night, if it can be done so soon. Please do the same on your front between now and midnight. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. 1). WIJIPPLE, Chief of AStQIJ. (Same to General Howard.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, in the Field, July 2, 1864. Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth (Jo q%s: GENERAL: There is reason to believe that the enemy intends to with- draw to-night at least from his l)reseIlt position on Kenesaw and in front of our left. The major-general commanding therefore (lirects that you feel him to-night and in the morning at some point in front of yonr line for the purpose of ascertaining his intentions, and be prepared at day. light to follow him up should he have moved. Yours, very respectfully, WIM. 1). WHiPPLE, A& ~i8ta nt Adjutant. General. [Indorsemeut] Colonel CARMAN: Please see that the picket-line feel repeatedly the rebel line, as di- rected last evening. If any indications of movement are observed, report at once. Return this by bearer. Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS July 2, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Department: GENERAL: A vigorous demonstration was made by the artillery of the corps, the skirmishers, and such portions of the main line as are i Page 19 C~r. LI CORRJ~SPONDENOE, ETC.~UMON. 19 eight of the enemys works. The demonstration closed between 6 and 7. The enemy did not reply by artillery and kept his infantry pretty well concealed, though there was quite a return fire. Major Angle, of the Ninetieth Ohio, General Stanleys skirmish officer, was killed during the action. IRespeetfiilly, 0. 0. HOWARD, llfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., July 2, ldG4ll.IOp. rn. Major-General STANLEY, Cornmandinq First Division: In accordance with instructions just received from department head- quarters you will at once feel the enemy at some point in your front for the purpose of discovering whether he is withdrawing. There is reason to believe that he is doing so either for the purpose of retreating or to attack General Schofield. If you find him still in our front and no change in his position again feel him very early in the morning. It will not do to attempt any night movements with a large force, but be pre- pared at daybreak to act according to such information as you may gain to-night. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Kenesaw ]IThuntain, July 2, 186111.10 p. m. General NEWTON: There is reason to believe that the enemy is retreating to-night. Major-General Stanley has just been instructed to feel him, for the pur- pose of discovering whether this supposition is correct. You will have your troops prepared at break of day to follow him (the enemy) if he has gone. Please report any movements that you may discover in your front. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to General Wood.) HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General ROUSSEAU, Nashville Tenn.: Now is the time for the raid to Opelika. Telegraph me whether you go yourself or who will command. Forrest is in Mississippi, and Rod- dey Eas also gone there. All other rebel cavalry is here. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Gommanding Page 20 20 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 18644.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Yes. All right, so far. No indications of an attack yet. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: General McPherson reports lie will be ready to move to-night. Are you ready for him to uncover the railroad l Telegraph me any news on your flmk, especially what Stoneman is about. Has General Morgan L. Smiths division come to you yetl I will move my headquarters to- morrow to Cheneys. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 2, 18647.30 a. rn. Major-General SHERMAN: Smiths division is here. I will put it in position on the ItuiPs Mill and Sandtown road on which McPherson is to move, while I will hold the Marietta road and from there back to Olleys Creek. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major-General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, nenr Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: General McPherson is now moving out. General Garrard will cover the depot; but one of the greatest probabilities is that Wheelers cav- alry will, the moment the disposition of the infantry is discovered, sweep round the hank of the cavalry and try to capture our depot, which should be cleared out to-night or very early in the morning. All were so instructed this morning. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: As your command will not probably move from the present position, you had better unload all wagons and send and bring soumething in the nature of provisions from the depot to-night. I understand there. is air~ excess of sugar, coffee, and salt. These, with beef, are better than nothing. It may be you can also procure the full measure of bread. At all eVents, haul to Wades all you can to-day and tq-night, empty- ing your wagons, where they now are, on the ground. W. T. SHERMAN, - Major- General Page 21 CHAI~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 21 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 1864 8.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have only three days supplies, including a train not yet in. I send a train to-day which can bring three days more, if they are at the depot. Possibly I[ may be able to make this last until the 10th. If you think this sufficient, I can get everything away from the railroad some time to-night. Some of my sick must go back to-day. I am not informed whether they can get railroad transportation to-night. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 186412.50 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy is extremely quiet in my front and shows only a light skirmish line. At 10 oclock Stoneman had possession of the bridge at Sweet Water Town and of the west bank of the creek as far down as the Factory, with a force moving toward Campbellton. He was repair- ing the bridge and wonld push out on all roads to the north and east as soon as his horses could be got across. Stonemnan has met no enemy except small parties. He thinks the main body of Jones and Wheelers cavalry is near Campbellton. His scouts just returned so report. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Report to me the fullest news of General Stoneman to-night. I want to find out as soon as possible if the enemy has a bridge at Campbell- ton. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 18646 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have not heard from Stoneman since 10 a. m. Expect full report from him to-night, and will send it to you as soon as received. In his dispatch he says: There is a ferry at Campbellton and one a few miles above. Also a bridge at Franklin, sixty miles below Atlanta. He does not give the source of his information. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. JULY 2, 1804. General SCHOFIELD: Is there any musketry or cannonading on your front now~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 22 22 TIlE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. R~NA?. U AT~MY OF THE OHIO, July 2, 18648.45 p. rn. General SHEIlMAN: There is no firing on my front. I hear occasional reports like artil- lery in Stonemans direction, but am not certain whether it is artillery or thunder, there is so much of the latter. I think there has been some firing in front of Hooker. .1. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, in the Field, July 2, 18649.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have nothing from Stoneman since noon to-day, at which time he had crossed the Sweet Water at Sweet Water Town and connected with his brigade on this side. He has not heard from the force sent toward Campbellton. Captain Twining, of my staff, was with Stoneman yes- terday and until 12 oclock. He is certain the enemy has no bridge at or near Campbellton. Their cavalry cross there on a ferry. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. JULY 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: If the enemys cavalry rely upon a ferry at Campbellton, there can be no force of any size in that neighborhood. Ask Captain Twining if McCook was still with Stoneman up to the time of his leaving. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 2, p. m. General SHERMAN: Have you decided when you will uncover the railroad ~ My trains are there to-night but it is uncertain when they can get away. I under- stand the bread for my command is expected to arrive to-night. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 18649 p m. Major-General SHERMAN: My command is supplied with bread for on]y three days. The others, I am told, have ten days supply. I have had trains waiting at the depot continually during the last six days. I will order back my empty trains early in the morning and do the best I can. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General Page 23 OIIAP. t.l CO1~RESPOI~DENCE, ETC.UNION. 23 JuLY 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Dont order back your empty wagons, but have them loaded with bran, rice, hominy, sugar and coffee, and salt, amid I will see, if the com- missaries have slighted you in distribution of bread rations, that it be made good. I also think it will be safe for your wagons to remain at Big Shanty throughout to-morrow, as Garrards cavalry (Thomas~ left), rear McPhersons column, will cover the Place all day. At all events, your teams will have plenty notice in case danger. Can soon gain the cover of Thomas troops, which remain in position. The enemy evidently detected our movement, and therefore we must act quick. Johnston will either attack in the morning or draw his extreme right ~ to the Chattahoochee. I want his movements watched close to-night and early in the morning, and could form better opinion if II could hear from Stoneman. Do you know whether McCook is with Stoneman ~ McCook has artillery; Stoneman, none. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 2, 186410 p. mu. Major-General SHERMAN: McCook is with Stoneman and has his artillery. I have heard no re- ports since the thunder ceased, and presume it was all thunder. My signal officer at dusk reported the enemys camp-fires in my front stronger than last evening, but at least a mile away. I will watch them closely to-night and in the morning. He also saw camp-fires along the railroad below Marietta. Very few railroad trains have been moving to-day. Yesterday they were very numerous. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. TREE SIGNAL STATION, July 2, 1864sunrise. General SCHOFIELD: No movements visible in front of your corps. Heavy cannonading can be seen extending from the left of the army around to Hascalls old position. Can see the shells burst on and all around this side of Kene- saw Mountain. Shelling appears to be mostly from our guns. WM. REYNOLDS, First Lieutenant, Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 2, 18648.30 a. mu. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Carairy Corps, Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: There will be no farther advance of the infantry to-day. General Sherman desires you to (10 what you can in accordance with his; directions, and to keep him advised of your progress. If you need sup- plies from the railroad they will have to be drawn to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Cornmandiztg Page 24 24 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. SWEET WATER BRIDGE, July 2, 1864. (Received 2 p. in.) General MoCooK: We have a position that we can hold against the whole rebel army. Send up every thing you have in the way of transportation, and every- thing there that may be back at the bridge behind you belonging to my. two brigades. Send and have the 1041) men at the upper bridge and the 20 men at the ford below, where Adams crossed, relieved and sent to their regiments. After everything has passed by you send for Adams an(l come up yourself. I Imave opened up communication with Butler. STONEMAK, General. Tell Adams to have 100 men to hold the cross-roads where you are now. G. S. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 2, 186412.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Comdg. Cavalry Corps, Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have your dispatches of 0.30 aud 10 a. m. I sent you a dispatch last evening and one this morning, but fear you did not get either of them, as you say nothing about it. I do not deem it prudent to send you the plan of operations until I am sure it will reach you in safety. There is no movement of infantry to-day. Our right is where it was last evening. There is some cavalry in Hascalls front. I have heard nothing from Butler to-day. Your movement is good so far. If you will send in a party this evening I will give you full information. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 2, 186410 p. m. Brig. Gen. J. P. Cox, Comdg. Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: General Sherman informs me that the enemy has evi- dently detected our movement, and is hinmself in motion. It seems certain that he will either retreat to-night or attack us in the morning. He appears now to be preparing to attack our extreme left (McPher- sons). Watch carefully all indications of the enemys movement dur- ing the night and inform me of everything of importance. Especially give me a report of the conditiomi of affairs in your front, at or a little before 4 oclock. General Sherman desires a report at that time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General GARRARD, Commandi~~g (avalvy: Report by ]etter or a staff officer the disposition of your command under the orders of last night to General Thomas, who is to remai Page 25 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 where he flow is. I will go to Cheneys or Wades, down the Sandtown road. General Stoneman has been down to the Sweet Water Town and Factory, and controls that region. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Ken esaw, July 2, 1864. General MCPHERSON: General Garrards communication is secured. He will be required to cover your line during the movement. If Wheeler goes up to Centre- yule he will find more than he bargains for, and then will be time for Garrard to cut in behind. W. T. ShERMAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Kenesan, July 2, 1864. General MCPHERSON: Written orders have gone to you. Make orders for Garrard and the corps commanders. If there be any part not clear after you have the orders, let me know. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPAP~TMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, July 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Following just received: HEADQUARTERS FIrTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Lieutenant-Colonel CLARK: General Logan directs me to send you the information that one of General Har- rows aides reports that the enemy have advanced in column from the mountain in his front, and arc forming in line of battle on the picket-line. This at 5 p.m. R. R. TOWNES, A ssistant Adjutant- General. JAS. 13. McPHERSON, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Kenesaw, July 2, 1864. General MCPHERSON: Relieve your pickets and all detachments before daylight. General Thomas will occupy such ground as he prefers to accomplish the end. He is notified that you will withdraw during the night. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 26 26 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. CHATTANOOGA, July 2, 1864. Brigadier-General SMITH: Have. you relieved the troops at IResaca and Tilton ~ J. B. STEEDMAN, JiM/or- (Thu era 1. rIDQRS. THIRD DiyiSio~, FTFTEENTII ARMY CORPS, Kin g~ton, (ia., July 2, 1864. Maj. Gem JAMES 13. STEEDMAN, Chattanooga, Team I have relieve(l the troops from Tilton to this place, placing Seven- teenth Iowa at Tilton, Tenth Missouri at Resaca, Fifty-sixth Illinois at Calhoun and Ad airsvill e. Train coaveym g these regiments left last evening. JNO. E. SMITh. I3ri~qa4ier- 6Ynera 1. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISIoN. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Ass-t. iljt. Gem, Department and. Army of the Ten nes8ee: In compliance with orders from your headquarters, I have the honor to report my arrival at this place with my comma1I(l, excepting the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, Eighteenth Wisconsin Infantry, and pioneer corps, who are cii roule for this place with the wagon traiii of the division, and the Twenty-sixth Missouri Infantry, who are escorting cattle from Chattanooga here. rVlIe Tenth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry are also absent from the command, on veteran furlough, by your order. By direction of Major-General Steedman, I Ii ye relieved the troops of Colonel Lowe, commanding cavalry, between Tilton and this place by placing the Seventeenth Iowa at Tilton, rpentlL Missouri at. Itesaca., Fifty-sixth Illinois at Calhoun and Adairsville, and to-day I. am re- lieving the troops guarding the Etowab River with the Third Brigade of this division. The disposal of the l)alancc of my comulan(l will be duly reported. I am, colonel, very res} teettully, your obedient serva itt, JNO. FL SMITH, Brigadier- General. I{DQRS. THIRD 1)IVISIoN. FIFTEENTH ARMY Coi~ps, Col. JAnEZ BANBURY, Kingston., Ga., f/fly 2, 1864. Corn d.g. Third Brig., Third. Dii., F/fteenth. Army Corps: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you take charge and guard the Etowah River fuoni Caldwells Ford tw half above Gillems Bridge to Thirchisons Ford ~o miles and a l)elow, and that ~Oll make preparations to itnove at once, placing the Fifth Iowa. Veteran Volunteer Infantry at Wooleys Bridge, throwing out one small post at Murchisons Ford, one small post at IRunnels Ford, amid one small post at Runnels Ferry. The Killety-third Illinois Infantry will be sta- tioned at Gillems Bridge, with omme outpost of 100 mcii at Island Ford and one outpost of 30 men at Ca.ldwells Ford, with directions to con Page 27 CHAP. t.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.T~TNTON. 27 manding officers to communicate frequently between posts. By apply- ing to Colonel Lowe, commanding cavalry division, at these headquar- ters ,yon will be furnished with the necessary transportation and guides for the disposition of your command. After having examined the line placed under your command with a view to a complete guard of the river, and the most suitable location for brigade headquarters, you will report to the general commanding, when the detachment of the Tenth Iowa will be assigned to duty on the same line. By order of Brig. Gem John B. Smith: CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- 4Yneral. ACwoRTH, July 2,1864. AssIsTANT ADJTJTANT-GENFAIAL, MILITARY 1)IYI5IoN OF THE MississIpPI: A company, undoubtedly fifty strong, of rebel guerrilla cavalry, ap- proached this post from northwest, two roads, to within two miles of this place, and three-quarters of a mile of the first railroad bridge northerly, capturing about 5 stragglers from the dismounted cavalry, left here by Colonel Dorrs brigade, and, as is said, a major of Tennes- see cavalry. One of Mr. IRossells construction corps was captured and robbed. He afterward escaped when our men approached and drove off the rebels. I sent three companies in pursuit, but being dismounted accomplished only the driving them off and examining the road and bridge. I have sent one company to the bridge to icmnain until further orders. The railroad is undisturbed. I have frequently before heard of rebel cavalry having been seen aIL(l heard of from three to eight miles northwest from here. SAMUEL ROSS, Colonel Twentieth Connecticut Vol. Infantry, Conudg. Post. HEADQLTARTER5 DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 2. 1864. Col. SAMUEL Ross, Aeworth: Your dispatch to assistant adjutant.geueral, headquarters military division, received and referred here where it should have been sent. Occurrences like that you report are to be expected. You must guard your post and see that they (lo not destroy the railroad in your vicinity. If those guerrillas ever Thu into your hands take no prisoners. WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of 5taJ GENERAL THOMAs HEADQUARTERS, Near Marietta, Ga., July 2, 186411.30 p. m. Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Assistant Superintendent U. S. Military Telegraph: Movement to turn Johnstons position made progress to-day, Gen- eral Schofield getting in position better than was expected, amid Mc- Pherson being ready to move at dark, when absence of enemy fro Page 28 28 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Schofields front and threats against the left caused Sherman to stop McPherson. At this hour General Thomas is of the opinion that John- ston is falling back and covering his movement by feint against left. General Sherman agrees that he is correct, or that Johnston will attack at daylight, and is prepared for either contingency. J. C. VAN DUZEli. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ NEAR KENESAW MOUNTAIN GA , ., No. 57. July 2, 1864. * * * * * * * V. In order to carry out Special Field Orders, No. 31, headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, a copy of which is inclosed here- with, * the following movements will be made: 1. The supply trains of the Army of the Tennessee, as fast as they are loaded with stores, will be moved to-day, under the direction of Lient. Col. J. Condit Smith, acting chief quartermaster, by the most practicable route to the Sandtown road, thence south to Cheneys, at the intersection of the San dtown and Powder Springs and Marietta roads, where they will be parked. 2. Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair, commanding Seventeenth Army Corps, will commence moving his command from the left at 9 p. m. this day, continuing successively to the right, and will march by the route selected by his staff~ officers to.day to the Sandtown road and thence down it to some good point near the Widow Mitchells, indicated on the map. 3. Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, will commence moving his command from the left as soon as Maj. Gen. F. P. Blairs troops have filed out, and will march by the most practicable route selected by his staff officers to-day to the Sandtown road and there follow Major-General Blairs command down it to where the road branches oft~ to Ruffs Mill, on the Nickajack Creek, and take up a good position near Ruffs Mill. 4. Maj. Gen. Johmm A. Logan. commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will commence moving his command from the left as soon as Major- General Dodges troops have filed out, and will march to the Saudtown road, thence down it, following Major-General Dodges command to the forks of the road leading to Ruffs Mill and Widow Mitchells, where he will halt and act as a reserve. 5. Brigadier-General Garrard, comumanding cavalry division, will move his command at 9 p. m. to-day to the vicinity of Big Shanty to cover the rail and wagon roads leading north fromu Marietta and east of Kenesaw Mountain, availing himself of the defenses thrown up by our troops. He will establish and keep open communicatiomi with the left of General Thomas comnmnand, and will send one good reginment for picket duty over this afternoon to report at these headquarters at 5 oclock to relieve the pickets of Blairs and Dodges commands. 6. These movements will be made with as much celerity as possible, and with the least anmount of noise. All arrangenments, except moving troops and artillery, should be made quietly before dark to avoid con- fusion. 7. Troops and trains will muove as munch under cover and screened from the view of the enemy as practicable. See p. 14 Page 29 CHAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29 8. One wagon with ammunition for each regiment and battery will follow each division as heretofore ordered; the remainder of the ordnance train of each division will go forward with the general supply train, in charge of ordnance officers. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. M& RIETTA, GA., July 3, 186410 a. m. (Received 5 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, IVashington, D. C.: The movement on our right caused the enemy to evacuate. We oc- cupied Kenesaw at daylight and Marietta at 8.30 a. nt Thomas is moving down the main road, toward the Cliattahoochee; McPherson toward the mouth of Nickajack, on the Sandtown road. Our cavalry is on the extreme flank. Whether the enemy will halt this side of Chatta- hoochee or not will soon be known. Marietta is almost entirely aban- doned by its inhabitants, and more than a mile of the railroad iron is removed between the town and the foot of Kenesaw. I propose to press the enemy close till he is across th~ Chattahoochee River, when I must accumulate stores and better guard my rear. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMIIERLAND, Jnly 3, 18612.45 a. in. Major-General SHERMAN: General Palmer reports that he felt for the enemy in Davis front, between 12 and 1 oclock, and found him gone. One prisoner captured gives it as his opinion that they have fallen back three miles to another line of works. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 3, 18644 a. m. Major-General THOMAS: I will stop Logan on your left to make him feel up Little Kenesaw. Feel out and find where the enemy is as quick as possible. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the,Field, July 3,18645 a. rn. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy has gone from General Hookers front, and he is advanc- ing on the Powder Springs and Marietta road, and on lines parallel to it. Q-EQ, H. THOMAS, Major- General Page 30 30 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [Cm. L. Jut~ 3, 1864. General THOMAS: I can see our men on top both Big and Little Kenesaw. W. T. SHERMAN, (Same to General Schofield.) } General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy has disappeared from lily entire front, and my troops have been in pursuit since daylight. Please direct Garrard to feel upon our left. GEG. H. TIIOAAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MiLITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSiSSIpPI, In the Fie?d, near Kenesaw, July 3, 1864. General THOMAS: I will go to Marietta, to the south ~f Kenesaw, and will communicate to you from there. Will expect to find you substantially on the rail- road, on the direct pursuit. Garrard has already got orders which will carry him east of Marietta. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 3, 1864. General THOMAS: I have sent Andenried to you, telling that Stoneinans cavalry has pursued the enemy across the Chattahoochee near Campbellton. Scho- field reports all quiet in his front, and I have ordered him to cross Nick- ajack Creek. I want you with your entire army to follow substantially the main army till he is across the Chattahoochee or makes a stand. McPherson will occupy Marietta and Kenesaw until furthem- (levelop- ments, and Garrards cavalry will feel over toward lioswell Factory. W. T, SHERMAN, ]JIajor.aciwral. HDQRS. MILITARY I)IVlSIoN OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Ia the Field, Mdrietta, Ga., July 3, 18G46.4& p. m. General THOMAS: The more I reflect the more I know Johnstons halt is to save time to CVOS5 his material and men. No general, such as he, would invite bat- tle with the Chattahoochee behind him. I have ordered McPherson and Schofield to cross Nickajack at any cost and work night and day to get the enemy started in confusion toward his bridges. I know you appreciate the situation. We will never have such a chance again, and I want you to impress on Hooker, Howard, and Palmer the importanc Page 31 CHAr. L) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 31 of the most intense energy of attack to-night and in the morning and to i~ress with vehemence at any cost of life and material. Every inch of his line should be felt and the moment there is a give, pursuit should be madeby day withlines, but by nightwith a single head of column and section of artillery to each corps, followiug a road. Hooker should coin- inunicate with McPherson by a circuit if necessary and act in concert. You know what loss would ensue to Johnston if he crosses his bridges at night in confusion with artillery thundering at random in his rear. I have reason to know that if our head of column had marched for RufPs instead of Marietta we would have cut off 2,000 men and 300 wagons. But still we have now the best chance ever offered, of a large army ffghting at a (lisadvantage with a river to his rear. Send copies of this to Hooker, Palmer, and Howard. I have instructed Schofield, McPherson, and Garrard. Yours, W T. SHE1~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, July 3, 18643.10 a. m. Major.General STANLEY: G-ENERAL: In accordance with instructions received from department headquarters, you will at once organize your troops an(l be ready for pursuit of the enemy. Your division will lead, followed by General Newton, then Wood. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLEIITON, As8istant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTh ARMY CORPS, Near Neal Dow Station, Ga., Jaly 3, 18648 p. m. Major-General THOMAS: GENERAL: 1 have the honor to report that my command has taken 167 prisoners164 enlisted men and 3 commissioned officers. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. IIOWARI), Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH Conrs, July 3, 18614 a. in. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, GhiQ of Staff: GENERAL: it is reported to inc that the enemy have disappeared from my front. General Ward is in possession of their works. Until further developments I shall advance on the Powder Springs road, and on lines parallel to it, to the right and left. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH hOOKER, Major- Ge,wral, (2ominanding Page 32 32 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUiXIBERLAND, GEORGIA MILITARY INSTITUTE, Maj. Gen. 0. ~. HOWARD, Marietta, Ga., July 3, 1864. Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you occupy the attention of the enemy in your front to-night and to-morrow morn- ing by skirmishing and artillery, so as to prevent his massing upon Major-Generals Schofield and McPherson, who are to attack his left flank. It is not intended that yonr operations shall amount in the ag- gregate to anything like a battle, but that you make use of any means that may occur to you as best calculated to accomplish the object iu- tended without really attacking him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. 1). WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. (Same to Palmer and Hooker.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Ne~ir Neal Dow Station, Ga., July 3, 18649.30 p. m. Brigadier-General NEWTON, Commane ~g Second Dirision: It has been discovered that the enemys right is nearer General Stanleys left than was supposed this afternoon. Also General Stanley will make a strong demonstration for the purpose of attracting the at- tention of the enemy at daybreak to-morrow. You will therefore move your division directly forward at daybreak to-morrow, close to Colonel Taylors brigade (General Stanleys rear brigade). General Wood will be ordered to close up on you. By order of Major.General Howard: J. S. FULLET~T0N, Assistant Adjuta~tt- General. [JULY 3, 1864.For MeCook to Elliott, reporting operations, & c., see Part II, p. 759.] Statemeni of J. Mi. Glass (scout). OFFICE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Marietta, July 3, 1864. Reports that he left the Federal lines 30th June. Had instructions to visit along the river between the bridge and Bakers Ferry and as- certain if the rebels had any pontoon across the same. The first day I reached Powder Springs, nexi~ day reached Marietta, crossing Sweet Water Creek at the mouth on the ferry~ Reported to Colonel Hill, pro- vost-marshalgeneral, rebel army; staid there till next morning, and then started for the river. When I got back as far as Ruffs Station, four miles below Marietta, I discovered they were running their train oft, and the army was about to fall back. I concluded to come back and report the same. Started back immediately by way of iJobbin Page 33 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 33 Mill, from there to Villa IRica and Atlanta road, and taking a left- hand road struck General Stonemans pickets about 3 p. m. yesterday. Came on from there toward General Schofields headquarters; when about one mile and a half this side of Noyes Creek bridge I was stopped by a sergeant in charge of a squad of cavalry pickets on the road; he would not allow me to come in or send me in under guard. I was compelled to stay there all night. I explained to the sergeant my business, and that I had valnable information for the Federal army. The sergeants name I cannot recollect nor his regiment he belongs to Colonel Caprons command. Colonel lull intimated to me that I would not find him in the same l)lace when I came over again. At Marietta I discovered that all the wagons were being loaded and sent off toward tIYe river. Trains were running rapidly all day; did not no- tice any troops on the cars. Friday night troops were moving toward the river; think it was a division; they came from the front near the mountain. J. C. Moiire had been in Marietta on Thursday; left there that day. Did not see any fortifications as far back as I went, between Marietta and the river. A citizen living at the ferry, Bakers, informed me that they were fortifying at Campbellton; that they were going to mount cannon there. The cannon were to come from Fairburn. Gen- eral Johnston has ordered out every negro to work on the fortifications. My opinion is that the army will not cross the river, making a stand on this side at the fortifications. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, July 3, 18644 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have heard from Stoneman. The force sent toward Campbell- ton returned, finding no enemy this side of Chattahoochee. All had crossed the river or Sweet Water Creek near its mouth, where there is a ford. Stonenian now holds a line from the right of our infantry to Fergusons Bridge, a little above Sweet Water Factory. MeCook is at the bridge over Sweet Water on the Powder Springs and Campbelltou road. All is quiet along my lines. I have no report of any movement of the enemy. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 3, 18647.30 a. rn. M~or-General SHERMAN: My signal officer on Byrds hill sees a long column of wagons and artillery moving south along the railroad; also a column of cavalry. He sees rebel troops cooking their breakfast in the fields across the Nickajack. J. M. SCHOF[ELI), Major- General. HDQRS. MILiTARY DivISION OF THE MississiPPi, In the Field, Marietta, July 3, 186411.35 a. mm General SCHOFIELD: General Thomas is moving directly down the road hence to railroad ridge. Garrards cavalry is off to the left between railroad and Chat- 8 R RYOL XXXYIIh PT Page 34 34 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. tahoochee. 1 want you and McPherson to threaten the flank of the enemy from Huffs Mill; also in the direction of Turners Ferry. We have gathered in many prisoners, and by pushing them will get many more. Send this to McPherson. Cross the Nickajack with a strong head of column, so as to threaten the enemy and take advantage of any confusion resulting froru Thonias pursuit. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 3, 18642.30 p. m. General SHERMAN: I have just received your dispatch of 11.3~ and shown it to McPher- son. He is moving out, and I will support him if necessary. Our signal officers were informed from Lost Mountain that you had not taken Marietta or I would have been some distance ahead. Respectfully, 3. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. JULY 3, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I will send McPherson according to former orders to Widow Mitchells. General Thomas with his whole army will follow the enemys main army, and in case he crosses the Chattahoochee, I propose to move you again over to the left, but in mean time let your skirmishers fall down to and across Nickajack. Let your wagons get provisions at Big Shanty to-day. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 3, 18645.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Comdg. Third Dirision, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Our troops have possession of Kenesaw. General Thomas will follow the main army in its retreat. General McPherson moves to the right according to the original programme. Oar movements will depend upon developments. Let your skirmishers well out, and find what has become of the enemy; especially see if he is in position across the Nickajack. By order of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Lynchs, on Sandtown Road, Ga., July 3, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & c: GENERAL: The reconnaissance from Colonel Byrd has proceeded ~outhcasterly ovei- a wile, crossing the Marietta road, and reachin Page 35 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 35 the Nickajack Creek. Its skirmishers are over the creek about half a mile. No enemy in their front, but they hear of a rebel force of infantry about a mile farther up the Marietta road. I have ordered them to hold a good position and examine their left in the direction indicated, by smaller scouting parties. The reconnaissance from Colonel Cameron has followed a cross-road toward Huffs Mill, and advanced about one mile and a~ half, as they report. They ffnd a mounted force just across the creek in their front, and the cannonade in front of General Smith is on their right rear. 1 have ordered them to hold a good position, com- municate with Colonel Byrds detachment on Marietta road, and watch carefully the effect of ilascalls and Smiths reconnaissance, advancing if practicable. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. D. COX, Brigadier- Uencral, Commanding. Moss HOUSE, July 3, 186410.30 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Corps: GENERAL: I have advanced a regiment in front of Colonels ~ and Hobsons brigades and General Smith has advanced two regiments on the road toward Watsons house, and two on the Huffs Station road. My regiment in front of Colonel Strickland soon encountered the en- emys cavalry skirmishers but drove them back to the vicinity of Nick- ajack Creek Colonel Hobsons regiment not yet heard from. General Smiths two regiments on the Huffs Station road encountered the enemy in considerable force, and found more difficulty in pressing him back. They have two or three pieces of artillery already operating on the Huffs Station road. General Smiths regimental commanders report that a strong line of infantry skirmishers are advancing against them on the Huffs Station road, backed by a line of infantry. This may be so, or it may be dismounted cavalry. If it is infantry, an attack here is not improbable. I am by no means certain that it is infantry. General Smith and myself thought we could not develop much by advancing our skirmishers simply, so left them where they were, and made the dispositions already described. General Smiths force on the Watson house road have encountered nothing but cavalry, and are now about a mile and a half in advance; skirmishing with the cavalry somewhat brisk. Artillery firing is heard in that direction, but it may be our artillery with General Stoneman. The enemys earth-works are visible from our advanced positiomi, and are probably beyond Kickajack Creek. Yours, respectfully, MILO S. HASCALL, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding Division. P. S.The cavalry are advancing simultaneously w ith us. General Smiths force on the Huffs Station road now reports that it is cavalry iu their front, but that they discover an infantry force on a rise to their right. I give this for what it is worth, Yours, M. S. H., J3ri~jadier- Getwr4 Page 36 36 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. rCHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 3, 18646 a. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Comdg. Cavalry Corps, Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: The enemy abandoned Kenesaw in the night and has fallen back along his entire line; how far does Rot yet appear. General Thomas is following. General McPherson is moving over onto our right, according to yesterdays orders. If the enemy cross the river we will resume onr old place on the left. Garrard remains for the present on the left of Thomas and protecting the rMlroad. I)uring the present keep np communication with whatever infantry maybe on the right, and act in concert with it. I will write you more fully when I hear more from Sherman. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In the Field, Moss House, Puffs Mill Road, July 3, 18642.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: Your dispatch of 11.35 to Major-General Schofield has just been shown me. General ~ command is here, an(i General Dodge is following closely. Brig. Gen. Morgan L. Smith, with Light- burns brigade, supported by Hascalls division, will make a strong demonstration at Huffs Mill and, if possible, secnre a good position on the east side of Nickajack Creek. Greshams division is moving (lown to Widow Mitchells, which is a little over a mile in front of Brig. Gen. Giles Smiths position. As soon as Gresham reaches Widow Mitchells, two regiments of Giles Smiths brigade, which are there, will make a demonstration toward Turners Ferry. Major-General Ston emamis cav- alry, I understand, is on this side of Sweet Water, and is pushing east from Sweet Water Factory toward the Nickajack and Chattahoochee. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHEHSON, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY l)IVISIoN OF TIlE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, Marietta, July 3, 18646.15 p. in. General MCPHERSON: Thomnas has Hooker on the road out of Marietta, which is called an Atlanta road, but runs to the Sandtown road~ crossing Nickaj ack at Huff an(I Daniels Mill. He finds the enemy intrenched a mile this side the mill. Howard is on the main Atlanta road, which is on the left of the railroad, and Palmuer intermediate, all Ilndimmg time enemy near the line indicated by the cross-road fromn above Wades to the main road about a muile and a half below Huffs. Now, I am convinced the enemy left Marietta in haste and confusion this morning. All the columns have taken many prisoners, and had the pursuit been vigorous we would have secured 3,000 or 4,000 prisoners and many wagons. Now th~ halt is, of coarse, to save tiume. If you ever worked in your life Page 37 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 37 work at daybreak to-morrow on that flank, crossing Kickajack some- how, and the moment you discover confusion pour in your fire. You know what a retreating mass across pontoon bridges means. Feel strong to-night and make feints of pursuit with artillery. I know John- stons withdrawal is not strategic, but for good reasons, after he crosses the Chattahoochee; but his situation with that river behind him is not comfortable at all. If you can get him once started, follow up and call on Schofield. Let him read this. You both see the whole game as well as I do. Let Stoneman threaten about Bakers and Howells Ferries, and you secure, if you can, the ridge and crossing at Kickajack, opposite Turners. I will send Logan to you to-morrow, but you have as many men as can operate in that I)ocket. I dont confine you to any crossing, but press the enemy all the time in flank till he is across Chattahoochee. Yours, W. T. ShERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Puffs ]Jiill, Ga., July 3, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Asst. Adji. Get., Department and Army of the TenneRsee: COLONEL : I have the honor to report the operations of this command for to-day (July 8): At daylight the Sixty-fourth illinois Infantry, as skirmishers, advanced and took possession of Kenesaw Mountain. The command then moved to a point near Ruffs Mill, bivouacked, and the Second Division went into position, relieving General Lightburns brigade, of General M. L. Smiths division, intrenching themselves on west 5i(iC of Nickajack Creek, with two regiments intrenched on east side to hold cross-roads and the commanding ground. Between my present position and that held by General M. L. Smith is a dense wood. The enemy appear to be in greatest force south of this wood and west of creek, which, with my limited force and owing to the lateness of the hour, compelled me to make such dispositions as would best protect the troops in case of an attack. The ground on the east side of the creek is, I should judge, the best to occupy, but will require a larger force than I have on the line. It is generally believed that nothing but cav- alry is in our front. Large camp-fires are plainly visible two or three miles due east from our position, supposed to be the enemys. I inclose herewith hurried sketch* of my position. I aln, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE POST, Chattanooga, July 3, 1864. Col. W. B. MOCREERY, Commanding Engineer Brigade: COLONEL: Information which is deemed reliable is that the enemy is again advancing in force against La Fayette, who or what force we (10 not know. It is probably desirable that you should notify your pickets and also the various camps to increased vigilance and to be ready. If you have vedettes would it not be well to have some of them To appear in the Atlas Page 38 88 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. four to six miles in advance ~ I am instructed also by Major-General Steedman to say to you for your guidance now and hereafter that should you be attacked it will be expected of you to hold your position as long as you can without endangering your command, and should that be the case you will move all property that can be moved to this place and as a last resort fall back upon this post. Two guns from Fort Mihalotzy is the signal for alarm. Thirteen gulls will be fired at sunrise as a Federal salute. Now, colonel, do you stay in your bed to- night unless attacked and send your officers to attend to picket duty. I will take the liberty of sending a line by the orderly to the company halfway up the mountain directing them to have out three sentinels and to be watchful. Very truly, your obedient servant, T. IL STANLEY, Colonel, Commanding Post. SUGAR VALLEY, GA., July 3, 18645 p. m. Major-General STEEIYMAN: I have just received dispatch from Watkins, stating enemy are ad- vancing on him in force, and asking me to come to assistance; it is twenty idles, and I will leave as soon as possible, halting at Ships Gap, five miles this side~ until I learn more. If Watkins is confronted by a large force I recommend the evacuation of La Fayette in preference to attempting to get troops enough there to hold it. You must answer this dispatch at once, so that it will overtake inc to-night, and I shall know definitely. Hespeetfully, JNO. T. COXTON, Colonel Fourth Kentucky Mounted L~fantry. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF TIlE ETOWAIT, Chattanooga, Tenn., July 3, 1864. Colonel CROXTON, Resaca, Ga.: I have received some information from Watkins and sent orders by him. You will hold Ships Gap with a snificient force, lending all the assistance you can to Watkins, and if confronted too strong fall back toward Hiuggold, securing Gordouis Springs Gap, but using most ot your force to check the advance of the enemy. There are 700 infantry and a section of artillery at Gordons Mills; keep them advised. Leave your wagons at 1~Q5aca. By command of Major-General Steedman: S. B. MOE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS T)TSTRICT OF THE ETOWAH, Chattanooga, Teun., July 3, 18G45.50 p. m. Colonel CRoXToN, Fourth Kentucky Mounted Infantry: COLONEL: In the event of an advance of the enemy, just reported to me by courier from Colonel Watkins, proving to be correct, you will hol Page 39 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 39 Ships and Gordons Springs Gaps, while Colonel Watkins holds Nicka- jack Gap, checking, as far as you can with safety, his advance toward the railroad in any direction, and sending me by courier all the informa- tion you can get. If attacked fight as long as you can without endan- geriizig command and if overwhelmed fall back in the direction of your Dalton and iResaca. Yours, truly, J. B. STEEDMAN, ]tilicyor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE ETOWAIT, Chattanooga, Tenn., July 3, 18645.40 p. m. Colonel WATKINS: Your dispatch just received. If attacked you will fi~ght as long as you can without endangering your command; if overpo~vered fall back if possible in the direction of this post, or IRiuggold. Re-enforcements will be on the march in an hour, but before pushing infantry too far out it is necessary I should know what force the enemy has. It will not do to give the enemy an opportunity to cut us off in detail. If their force is a large one you will fall back on the infantry at Gordons Mills, holding the enemy in check and sending couriers at once to this post, and in- forming the officer in command at Gordons Mills. Very truly, J. B. STEEDMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. SECOND BRrn., THIRD DIV., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Resaca, Ga., July 3, 1864. Capt. C. L. WHITE, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: I have information that Colonel Hart, Sixth Georgia Cav- alry, with 300 men, is encamped near Jasper, in Pickens, where he is gathering up and feeding stock. I think that the force might be cap- tured by sending a detachment of cavalry from Kingston to seize the mountain gaps south and east of Jasper, while an attack is made from the north by a cavalry force sent from here. Colonel Croxton, Fourth Kentucky Mounted Infantry, and Colonel Baldwin, Fifth Kentucky Cav- alry, called on me this morning; their regiments, with a detachment of the Third Kentucky Cavalry, number, say, 1,100 or 1,200 men. Croxton and Baldwin are both intelligent nien, and if you order the movement I have no doubt they will execute it vigorously. Do you propose to enter upon the immediate execution of General Steedmans order ban- ishing citizens from the line of the railroad ~? If so copies should be dis- tributed along the line. I have seen one copy, but have none. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GREEN B. RAUM, Colonel, Comn~anding Brigade. IIESACA, July 3, 18647 p. m. Capt. C. L. WHITE: Colonel Croxton, Fourth Kentucky, reports from Snake Creek Gap a dispatch from Colonel Watkins at La Fayette that the enemy is advan Page 40 40 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. ing Upon huin in force. Colonel Croxton will move to Villanow to-night, and to Ships Gap at daybreak. I will direct Colonel Baldwin, Fifth Kentucky, to send a force to Snake Creek Gap, and another in the direc- tion ot Jasper. Colonel Croxton reqnests that Colonel Lowe be informed of these facts. GREEN B. RAUM, Co lort el, Co mnmanding Brigade. RESACA, July 3, 1864. Capt. S. B. MOE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Colonel Croxton, Fonrth Kentucky, is at. Snake Creek Gap. He will move to-night to Yillanow; at daylight in the morning to Ships Gap to the relief of La Fayette, which is threatened by enemy. Colonel Moore left here for Tunnel Hill yesterday evening. C. B. RAUM, Colonel, Commanding. iRESACA, July 3, 1864. Capt. C. L. WHITE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Two train loads of ammunition are here to be stored. If attacked my force is inadequate for the defense of the bridge an(1 the ammnuni- tion. Can you spare the Eightieth Ohio? G. B. IRAUM, Colonel, Commanding. CARTERSYILLE, July 3, 1864. General J. B. SMITH: Colonel Murray is to-night near Calhoun, with one regiment on way to IResaca; will reach there to-morrow. Colonel Baldwin with parts of two regiments is near IResaca. Will telegraph him at once to (10 what he can to render assistance if needed. He is out of forage, and has been for two days. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Kingston, Ga., July 3, 1864. Colonel LOWE, c7artersrille, Ga.: Colonel IRaum says that Colonel Hart, Sixth Georgia (rebel), is near Jasper with 300 men. JNO. B. SMITH, Brigadier- General Page 41 CHAP U CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 41 HDQRS. THIRD DIvisioN, FIFTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, Kingston, Ga., July 3, 1864. Col. GREEN B. T~tAUM, (Jomdg. 2d Brig., 3d Div., 15th Army Corps, Resaca, Ga.: Your dispatch relative to the movement of the enemy received. The general commanding directs that. you give no orders to the cavalry force of Colonel Lowe, stationed at or near IResaca, as they have been concentrated to that point l)y or(ier of Major-General Thomas for a specified purpose. I will notit~ Colonel Lowe of the information you have received. in the mean time keel) me advise(I of all movements. CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant A djut ant. General. HDQRS. THIRD T)IVISIoN, FIFTEENTh ARMY CORPS, Kingston, Ga., July 3, 1864. Col. GREEN B. RAUM, Commanding Second Brigade: Colonel Lowe sends out his command by order of General Thomas to- morrow to scout the country from Cartersville to Canton, Jasper, and Talking Rock, & c. General Steedmans order, No. 2, has been sent you.* - CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Kingston, Ga., July 3, 1864. Col. GREEN B. RAUM, Besaca, Ga.: Colonel Lowe repUes to my dispatch that Colonel Murray is to-night near Calhoun with one regiment on his way to Resaca, and will reach there to-morrow. Colonel Baldwin, with part of two regiments, is near IResaca, and will be directed at once to do what he can to render assist- ance if needed. CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant.General. NASHVILLE, July 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch that this is the proper time is received. I shall go in person; shall leave General R. S. Granger to take care of the district. A little preparation will be required. I will announce to you when I am ready to go. L. H. ROUSSEAU. MARIETTA, GA., Jaly 3, 18646.30 p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: As was anticipated, Johnston retreated during last night and is now intrenchied on line of Chattahoochee. his movement was effected in ~ See Part IV, ~. 6:14 Page 42 42 ~ THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CRAP. L. good order and without loss, except a few deserters. Two miles of railroad removed, and four of telegraph. My office is three miles out on railroad. Shermans, Thomas, and McPhersons headquarters here. Schofield is on the right, some eight miles south. Will rest here for some time, and I can get to Nashville, perhaps. J. C. VAN DUZER. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH Coups, July 8, 1864. Order of march for to-day: The enemy having left, General Ward, with his division, will follow him with dispatch on the Powder Springs road. General Williams will advance from his left flank and follow on a line parallel with the Pow- der Springs road, in the same direction. General Geary will advance from his right flank. The pursuit to be made with the greatest possible vigor. In order that no delay may be caused by the trains they will be sent on to the Powder Springs road. Headquarters will be with the center column. By command of Major-General Hooker: H. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 4, 1864. Major-General THOMAS: I have no doubt that the enemy will attempt to molest our rear with his cavalry, and that he has reserved Roswell fortified for that very purpose. To counteract his designs I have ordered Garrard, with his whole cavalry, to proceed to IRoswell take the place if he can, other- wise hang near it, watching the river, opposing such a movement all he can and giving us and all points of the railroad timely notice. I wish you would so hold McCook as promptly to re-enforce Garrard,if need be. As soon as I understand the exact situation on the right, as to Turners Ferry, and what progress McPherson has made, I will order Schofield round where Garrard now is. I will go to-morrow, and in the mean time I wish you to hold strong the points now at Howards and Palmers head of column and merely picket light the road by whichi Garrard moved, as I feel sure the enemy will not attempt a sally there. Hooker need iiot hold the line from Palmer round to McPherson, but draw in to his left, save by a line of vedettes. I want you with your whole army to press steadily down on the enemy while McPherson cuts in on his flank. Schofield is to be held to re- enforce either part. Stoneman will threaten to cross the Chiattahoochee and break the Atlanta and West Point Railroad, especially if tIme enemy send cavalry against our line of road. Instead of occupying Acworth, Big Shanty, and Marietta, I think we had better concentrate about the base of Kenesaw, near that water station, a point that could be defended against cavalry with great ease. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 43 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 43 HDQRS. MILITARY DIYISIoN OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, Marietta, July 4, JSGI. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Army of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say the two divisions of the Fifteenth Corps now near here have been ordered to move about 9 oclock and join General McPherson, and he desires you will relieve the provost guard of one regiment as soon as convenient, that they may also join their command. Let your command guard the place until such time as some arrangement for garrison may be made. I am, general, with much respect, yours, & c L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Near Neal Dow Station, July 4, 18648.20 p. m. Major-General THOMAS: GENERAL: In accordance with your instructions General Stanley strengthened his skirmish line and pushed it rapidly across the open corn-field in his front, taking the rebel rifle-pits, under a severe artillery and infantry fire. He immediately moved forward his main line and covered it by a barricade. Later in the day Generals Newton and Wood seized portions of the enemys skirmish line, and have established their main line facing the same open field across which General Stan- ley advanced. The conduct of the troops in the charge to-day could not be surpassed. We have taken 88 prisoners, 3 of whom are officers. General King moved upon our right in conjunction with Stanley and intrenched important heights on the right. Our losses about 95 wounded according to hospital report this afternoon. 0. 0. HOWARD. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, GEORGIA MILITARY INSTITUTE, Marietta, July 4, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that in accord- ance with instructions from Major-General Sherman you detail one bri- gade of your corps to garrison the town of Marietta until other ar- rangements can be made. Give the commanding officer orders to preserve everything in and about the town as nearly in the same state as that in which he finds it upon his assuming command. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. [Indorsernent.] General PALMER: I have ordered the detail, as it is after 9 oclock, from General Baird. Very respectfully, A. C. McCLURG Page 44 44 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION CAVALRY, July 4, 18643.30 p. rn. General W. L. ELLIOTT, Chief of cavalry: GENERAL: Yesterday after writing to you, and after General Stoneman had moved toward the right of our army, I took 300 men and a sectioii of artillery and advanced on the Howell and Greens Ferry road to a point where it crosses the main Sandtown road. There I found breast- works occupied in part by the infantry of the enemy. I got my artil- lery within 300 yards of their works, and opene(l with good elThct. I made no effort to take the breast-works, and withdrew at my leisure. Among our wounded was Lieutenant lull, of my staff. I think that a column of infantry pushed down this road, or the Sandtowu or Camp- bellton roads, could cross the Chattahoochee without much or any oppo~ sition now. I will move to Darbys this afternoon, and I feel satisfiej that to-day these roads are occupied by nothing but a cavalry force. E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, on Marietta and Turner8 Ferry Road, Major-General SCHOFIELD, July 4, 18646 p. m. Commanding Army of the Ohio: GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say it was not his intention to move you to the left of the army until he succeeds in forcing Johnston across the Chattahoochee. In the mean time you will act in support and co-operate with General McPherson; General Hooker may be, by circumstances as they develop, moved toward General Palmer to concentrate General Thomas army, in which case you will be reqnired to act upon McPhersons flank. When Johnston is across the Chattahoochee then he will move you to the left. I am, general, with much respect, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO July 4, 18647.45 p. m. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de-Camp: CAPTAIN: I have just received your letter dated 43 p. m. explaining General Shermans intentions as to my mnovemeiints. I understood the generals orders precisely as you explain themn, and have been acting, or rather holding my troops ready to act, accor(lingly. From a muap sent me by General Hooker, showing the position in which his corps is being established, and from personal examination of the ground oc- cupied by General Dodge, I judge that Hookers right nuist be in rear of Dodges left, and if advanced would overlap it. Perhaps there is some mistake as to positions. I will examine the ground myself in the morning and put in whatever force can be used between General Hooker and General McPhersons left. General McPherson has had to-day quite as many troops across the Kickajack, beyond I{uffs Mill Page 45 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 45 as could be used there. Please iuform the general that Stonemans cavalry has control of the country from McPhersons right, on the Tur- ncrs Ferry road, to the river, near Sandtown. He has beaten the en- emys cavalry in several small affairs and captured many prisoners avid a large number of good horses and mules. I am just informed by Colonel Cameron, commanding a brigade of General ~ division, which has been covering General Hookers right during his advance, that at 5 p. m. to-day General Hooker united with General Dodge be- yond Nickajack, and his (Colonel Camerons) troops were thereby relieved. Very respectfully, ~. ~. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 4, 18647.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: I have just received Colonel Perkins note inclosing a plat to indicate the position in which your corps is being established. If your maps are all right your right must be some distance in rear of General Dodges left. General T)odge crossed the Nickajack at Ruffs Mill and his line crossed the road leading from that point toward Huffs Station. I have also a brigade on his left with instructions to feel for your right. In the morning I will put in whatever additional force may be necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. SANDTOWN AND MARIETTA ROAD, July 4, 1864. Colonel CAPRON, Commanding Brigade: As soon as you reach this road or its immediate vicinity, in case you cannot strike it, try by all means to corn inunicate with Colonel Butler on your left and on this road where the left-hand branch from the bar- ricade strikes it, and send me word by the bearer of this when you have done so. Scout the country well to your front and right and try to communicate with McCook or Adams on your right. One or both of them ought to be between you and the Chattahoochee River on this road (the Sandtown and Marietta). I shall be on this road nutil further notice, and I hope you will be able to send me by this road direct. Respectfully, & c., STONEMAN, General, 61ommanding. IN THE FIELD, GA., July 4, 18648 a. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: Your dispatch, per Lieutenant Vernay, was received last night. Lightburns brigade, of Morgan L. Smiths division, secured a positio Page 46 46 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. across Nickajack Creek at Ruffs Mill yesterday afternoon and were relieved by a portion of Sweenys division. Dodge is pushing forward his command in the direction of the railroad east of Kickajack Creek at IRuffs Mill. Blair is near Widow Mitchells, and has sent two regi- ments of infantry and a section of artillery, in connection with a brigade of Stonemans cavalry, on the road to Turners Ferry, with orders to secure, if possible, the crossing of Kickajack Creek. Stonemans cav- alry hold the country from the Sandtown road west to Sweet Water, and most of his cavalry is along the Sandtown road. Your dispatch to me was shown to Major-General Schofield. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON,. ]Jih~jor. General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MiSSISSIpPI In the Pield, at front, July 4, 1864. General MCPHERSON: Howard charged across the field on his front aud captured most of the advance line, but found the main line too strong with artillery. I have worked all along the line and shall continue to strengthen this point, where the Marietta and Sandtown road first crosses Nickajack. Davis has a brigade across and the others and Baird in close support. I will give my personal attention that if you have to fight on that line, you shall have the assistance of all of Thomas army if they have to as- sault the parapet. Davis is here and can be relied on. Hooker is in communication with you, and if we have a fight will all fight together; you may pitch in strong. I doubt if the enemy will expect an attack by that line, for they seeni to have prepared on their front. I think 1,000 prisoners have been taken on this line. I am disappointed so little has been done to-day, but think the causes are at work that will produce the direct result. Our whole line is iu communication. I will camp on this road one mile and a half back of this point about five miles out of Marietta ou the Saudtown road. Let me hear every chance. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. JULY 4, 18644.45 p. in. Major-General SHERMAN: I had just got a position and directed artillery to be 1)ut in and open when your dispatch came. MCPHERSON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Puffs Mill, Ga., July 4, 18618.45 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, die.: GENERAL: in pursuance of your instructions, at daybreak this morn- ing I directed Major-General Dodge to take his entire command and push across Kickajack Creek at Ruffs Mill, General Blair to send two regimonts a~d ~ ~eCtiou Q~ ~rti1lery, supported by ~toneinmvns c~~alry Page 47 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION~ 47 from Widow Mitchells down to Nickajack, near Turners Ferry. Dodge moved across and ran against Stevensons division, and as he developed his lines captured a few prisoners from each division of Hoods corps. I sent over Morgan L. Smiths division, and General Schofield sent in a brigade on Dodges left to try and communicate with Hooker. As soon as the troops were over and in position, I directed Dodge to strengthen his skirmish line, so as to make it almost equivalent to a line of battle, especially over rough gronnd, and to assault the enemys ride-pits. The order was gallantly executed, the works taken, and some 50 prisoners captured; our loss not heavy; Colonel Noyes, Thirty-ninth Ohio, se- verely wounded. This gives Dodge a position about one mile and a quarter east of Nickajack Creek. He has one brigade of Schofield on his left, and Morgan L. Smiths division on his right and rear. The cavalry and infantry demonstration on the Turners Ferry road reached a point, as they think, half a milc* from Nickajack, and found it toler. ably well fortified, with four guns in position. This brought the infan- try to a halt, and they have not advanced since. They will, however, hold all the ground they have gained, and be ready to try the strength of the enemys works, if it is deemed desirable. I have about 15,000 men across the creek with Dodge, and Logans two divisions (Oster- haus and Harrows) in reserve at the forks of the road. They got in late and conipletely worn out. I do not think more than half of the divisions arrived. Very respectfully, your obedient servaimt, JAS. B. MCPHEIRSO$ Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, Marietta, July 4, 1864. Maj. Gen JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: By direction of the general commanding, you will move your command, starting about 9 oclock, and report with it to Major- General McPherson, by the way of Cheneys or Wades. The regiment now doing provost duty will remain until relieved by Major.General Thomas. I am, general, with respect, yours, & c., L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CoRps, In the Field, near Buffs Mill, Ga., July 4, 1864. Col. E. W. RICE, 6~ommanding First Brigade: COLONEL: You will deploy one company of your command as ~kir- mishers, supported by two companies, on the left dank of the Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry. They will move forward the distance of one mile, and discover if any of the enemy are in that locality. Should they meet with opposition they will immediately report the fact to these headquarters. By order of T. W. Sweeny, brigadier-general, commanding: JAMES DAVIDSON, First Lieut., Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, and Aide-de- Camp. l~ca4~ ~m mile awl a half in Howa~d8 cpmot~tion See Part III, Page 48 48 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 4, 18647.15 p. m. Brigadier-General LEGGETT, Commanding Third Di ri~ion, Seventeenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-geiicral (olHlflafldillg (lesires you to withdraw General Force from his l)resent })OsitiOlL and move out toward the Fourth Division, camping on the ground indicated l)y Lieutenant Tompkins, aide-de-eamp. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY J)IVISION, In front of Marietta, July 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. L. ELLIOTT, Chief of Cavalry, Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I advanced on the Paces Ferry road about a mile and a halt; driving the enemys l)ickets, cross- ing a creek and taking a range of hills on the south side. The enemy was strong, and, being in front of the infantry, while they did not advance, knowing that any frirther progress would be impossible on my part, I connected late this afternoon my vedettes with General Howards pickets. My dismounted men were half a mile in advaiice of where my vedettes now stand. The enemys cavalry picket the Powers Ferry road and on the I{oswell Factory road; my 1)ickets extend from the Powers Ferry road to the Fourth Corps. Are there any orders for inc ~? Very respectfully, your obedient serwmt, K. GARItATtD, Brigadier- General, Co mman ding Dirision. HDQRS. MILITARY l)IVISION OF TilE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, Jnly 4, 1864. General GARRARD, Commanding Dirision q/ Cavalry: GENERAL: I am satisfied the enemy will attempt with his cavalry to cross the Chattahoochee about lioswell ail(l make an attenipt on our communications. To counteract him you will move in that direction and watch close, taking some position on which to rally on inihutry, a brigade of which is at M~rittt a strong brigade at Ahlatoona, and General Thomas, will bc instlu( te(l to hold MeCooks briga(ie ready to go to your assistance. You miy (hr tw out t once and ~() to Roswell, and if y~u can force your ~x IV to it, you may gain a secure position from which you can watch thi~t 1 0 it In case the enemys cavalry get across, you must hang to 1Pm, OppOsilig hint whenever opposition is possible, and send couriers rapidly to me, aml to the points of the railroad threatened. In the mean tuac el)ort to me frequently and use your cavalry as though you were preparing to Cr055 yourself or were only waiting for the waters to subside and make the ford practicable. You now understand the geography so well that I have no doubt you can prevent Wheeler from doing much t damage betweell Marietta and Alh Page 49 CHAP. L.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 49 toona. In case he passes round by Canton to go toward Cartersyille, send notice and hang on his rear. We now have a full division of in- faritry at Kingston. Arrest every citizen in the country whom you find likely to prove a spy, and keep moving so that your force cannot be computed. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE ETOWAH, Chattanooga, July 4, 1864. Brig. Gem J. E. SMITH, Kingston, Ga.: GENERAL: I am instructed by the general commanding district to say that Colonel Watkins yesterday notified him that the rebels were moving down the Broomtown road toward La Fayette in considerable force. He desires that you will keep the stations at which your command are posted well advised of the whereabouts of these squads and forces, and caution theni to be on the lookout all the time. I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, S. B. MOE, Assistant Adjutant- Geujeral. RESACA, July 4, 1864. Capt. C. L. WHITE: Your three dispatches of last night just received. Colonel Croxton moved toward La Fayette upon his own responsibility. Colonel Bald- Will moved to Snake Creek Gap upoft my order at 10.30 last night with 200 men. The balance of his command is here. GREEN B. RAUM, 6~olonel, Commanding Brigade. ROME, GA., July 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN E. SMITH: The rebels it is reported are to cross the Etowah on the bridge three miles west of Kingston for the purpose of obstructing the road to Rome. WM. YANDEVER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ilD QRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 7. lit the Field, near Ruffs Mill, July 4, 1864. Maj. J. T. Cheney is announced as chief of artillery on the staff of the major-general commanding. He will be obeyed and respected ac- cordingly. By command of Maj. Gen. Frank P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. 4 R RYOL XXXVIII, PT Page 50 50 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE RIvER, July 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. II. W. HXLLECK, Washington, D. C.: On the 3d we pursued the enemy by all the roads south till we found him in an intrenched position which had been prepared in advance, its salient on the main Marietta and Atlanta road about five miles south of Marietta, and the wings behind the Nickajack and Ilottenwood Creeks. During the 4th General Thomas pressed the salient, and Mc- Pherson and Schofield moved against Nickajack by pressing close and threatening the Chattahoochee at Sandtown and below. Johnston again retreated in the night and now has his main force and wagons across the Chattahoochee, with Hardees corps on this side, strongly intrenched in a sort of t~te-de-pont on a ridge of hills beginning at the railroad bridge and extending down the river to the mouth of the Nickajack. We have worked hard, and now Thomas left is on the Chattahoochee, three miles above the railroad bridge at Paces Ferry. Stoneman has been most active with the cavalry about Sweet Water, and is now on the Chattahoochee about Sandtown, and Garrard started this morning for Roswell Factory. I have no report from him yet. I am now far ahead of my railroad and telegraph, and want them to catch up, and may be here some days. Atlanta is in plain view, nine miles distant. We have had continual skirmishing, but our losses are small, while we have 1nfiict~d more to the enemy. Our prisoners taken in the last two days will not fail sh9rb of 2,000. The extent of the enemys parallels already taken is wonderful, and much of the same sort confronts us yet, and is seen beyond the Chattahoochee. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 5, 18643.45 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Marietta, Ga.: The President has issued his proclamation declaring martial law in the State of Kentucky. News just received of a naval battle off Cher- bourg between the pirate Alabama and the United States war steamer Kearsarge. After a close engagement of one hour and forty minutes the Alabama was sunk. Semmes and his officers and part of the crew found shelter in a British yacht. No one killed on the Kearsarge. EDWIN N. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. ShERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: We discovered at daylight this morning that the enemy had gone from in front of us, and I immediately ordered the troops in pursuit. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding Page 51 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 51 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, July 5, 18649 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that my command left camp at 5 this a. in. in pnrsnit of the enemy, and moved down the railroad, Brigadier-General Woods division leading, followed by General New- tons, and then Major-General Staideys. General Wood met the enemys dismonuted cavalry, and commenced skirmishing with it about one mile and a half from camp. They de- layed our advance as much as possible, making a stand at every advan- tageons position from that ioint to the place where I have gone into camp. When abont two miles from camp I learned from a report of one of my sconts that one of the trains of the enemy was moving toward the river on a road about two miles to our left. I directed General Newton send a brigade of his division after it but it had too much the start to to be overtaken by infantry. At 10 a. m. my head of column arrived at Vinings Station on the railroad, and at ii a. in. I started down the road leading from there to ~ Ferry. Very near the station the enemys dismounted cavalry took up a posi- tion on a ridge behind rail barricades, and when General ~ skir- mishers came up they left their cover, and charging them, attempted to drive them back, but they were quickly repulsed, and from this point were slowly driven back to the river at the ferry. So closely were they followed that they had not an opportunity to destroy the pontoon bridge over which they crossed. They cut it on this side, however, and it swung over to the other side of the river. I now hold this side of the crossing, and General Wood has gone into position on a ridge almost parallel with the river, and near thereto; General Newton in his rear, and extending to his left, and General Stanley on the left of General Newton. The losses in this command to-day have been very small for the results. We have taken 101 enlisted men prisoners. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Neal Dow Station, Ga., July 5, 18644.20 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: General Stanley reports that the enemy have gone from his front, and that he occupies their works. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Neal Dow Station, July 5, 18644.25 a. m. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The enemy have retreated. Make every preparation to follow him as soon as possible. General Woods division will lead, General Newton will follow, then yonrs. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 52 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 52 [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS FoURTH ARMY CORPS, Paces House, near Vinings & ation, Ga., July 5, 1864G.30 p. m. Orders of the day for the Fourth Army Corps for July 6, 1864: Brigadier-General Wood will force a crossiu~ of the Chattahoochee River to-morrow morning at 5 oclock. He will make the attempt to cross at Paces Ferry, at the point where the enemy crosscd ou the pontoon bridge this morning, making use of the enemys bridge now lying ou the other side of the river, if he can obtain possession of the same. If he cannot cross at this point a pontoon bridge will be fur- nished him, and he will ci-oss at such point as lie may selcct. All of the artillery of the First and Second Divisions of this corps will co-operate with General Woods artillery in this movement, and for this purpose will be placed in such position as Captain Bridges, acting chief of artillery of this corps, may designate. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Vinings & ation, Ga., July 5, 18649.20 p. rn. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Army of the Cumberland: GENERAL: Please have the pontoon bridge at General Woods by 5 a. m. to-morrow. Fery respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., SECOND DIv., 4TH ARMY CORPS, July 5, 18642.15 a. m. Brigadier-General NEWTON, commanding & 3eoud Dirision, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Colonel Opdycke and Lieutenant-Colonel Moore, of the One hundred and twenty-fifth Ohio Infantry, both report the enemy retreating. They report trains moving offartillery, baggage and rail- road trains. The enemy still keep up a slight firing from their skirmish line. Both Colonels Opdycke and Moore seem confident that the report they bring is correct. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, L. P. BRADLEY, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 5, 18644.40 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The enemy has gone from General Howards front. The major-general commanding directs that you l)ush after him without a moments delay, and, if possible, inflict some damage upon him before he gets entirely across the Chattahoochee. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WHIPPLE, Assistant A (yatant- Geucral Page 53 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. U] 53 HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, July 5, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The major-~eneral commanding directs that you examine the country in your front, and ascertain if you can move your division by any by-road due east. The enemy have gone and we must follow. If no road can be found which you can cross the creek and get onto, you will have to bring your division back here and march out on this road. Our scouts have been sent out to find roads, if possible, but the general wishes you to send also. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. XV. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, July 5, 1864. Brigadier-General GEARY, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general coinman(ling directs me to say that the indicathins are that the enemy will leave here to cross the river to- night. He wishes you to keep your pickets well pushed up to-night, and if they should leave to occupy their works at once. He would also like to have you get possession, if possible, this p. in. of that point of their works that Major Reynolds is now taking a battery down to shell. He will point it out to you. But this is not to be construed into an order to assault. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, Four miles below Marietta, July 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCOOK, Commanding First Cavalry Division: GENERAL : The general commanding directs that you march with your command to the left and rear of the Army of the Cumberland. General Howards (Fourth) corps is on the~ left~ with his right resting on the railroad. General ~ division is on the extreme left. Your position will be in rear of the left of General Howard, so as to be in readiness to support General Garrard. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 5, 18647 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have had no opportunity to use my troops to-day. Gen- eral McPhersons having been quite as many as could be brought int Page 54 [CHAP. L. 54 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN, action on this side of Niekajack, consequently I have not moved my column beyond Watsons house. I will confer with General McPherson to-night and see what can be done in the morning in case the enemy remain on this side of the river. I understand lie is behind strong works along the Nickajack, covering Turners Ferry, and presume McPherson will not be able to force a crossing this evening. If I do not hear from you to-night I will move down at (laylight in the morning and co-operate with McPherson. Very respectfully, j. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field near Chattahoochee, Jnly 5, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: Move your entire command, except Stonemans cavalry, to Puffs Sta- tion, en route for position on our left, which will be either about Hoswell Factory or the mouth of Hottenwood Creek. Hulls Station is live miles south of Marietta, on the railroad, and I think there is a plain road from where you now are. Notify General McPherson of your de- parture and report to me by letter or in person on arrival. Yours, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD Aui~rv CORPS, Lynchs, on AS~andtown Road, Jnly 5, 18649.30 a. m. Colonel BYRD, Commanding Third Brigade: SIR: You will, on receipt of this, move your command by the road leading in this direction from the front of your works, and down the Sandtown road from this point to the intersection of the road from Pow- der Springs to Huffs Station with this road, at which place you will receive further orders. The point you will reach is at or near Wades house, and at ally convenient locality near there you will halt and mass your troops, unless you receive other orders. The whole division is in motion. The enemy are again in retreat. 4. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Ga., Jnly 5, 1864. CoL H. F. BARTER, ilomdg. First Brig., First Div., 23d Army Corps: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that I inform you that this division will move out upon the Sandtown road immediately. But he desires that your command remain in its present position, guard- ing cross-roads trains, & c., until further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, TIIEG. COX, Lient. and Aide-de- Camp, Acting Assistant Adjntant- General Page 55 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 55 HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Ga., July 5, 1864. Col. E. W. CRITTENDEN, Commanding Dismounted Cavalry Brigade: COLONEL: The general commanding directs me to say that this divis- ion will move out upon the Saudtowu road immediately, and he desires that your command move forward in the rear of the other brigades, and that you report to him in person upon the road when your command overtakes the others. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THBO. COX, Lient. and Aide-de-Camp, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. JULY 5, 1864. Colonel CAPRON: The infantry is close upon you; try to drive everything across the river, and then move your brigade down the bank to Bakers Ferry. Butler will go on your right at Saiidtown. On your arrival at Bakers Ferry you can forage your horses and send for rations for your men, if you are in want of them. STONEMAN, General. JULY 5, 18647.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Dodge reports that enemy has evacuated main line of works in his front. His skirmishers are pushing forward. McPHERSON, Major- General. JULY 5, 186411.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: A large portion of Dodges command is across the Nickajack at iRuffs Mill, and has run against Stevensons division, and possibly some other portion of Hoods corps, out about one mile; some little skirmishing. McPHERSON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Gordons, on Turners Ferry Road, Ga., July 5, 18649 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I send you herewith sketch* of tlie position of the Army of the Tennessee to-night. Early this forenoon Greshams division, of Blairs command, charged and carried a line of rebel rifle-pits on the Turners Ferry road, and then pressed forward until about 6 p. m. they gained a position on Nickajack Creek, within about 500 yards of rebel ~ Not found with this communication; but see McPherson to Schofield, following Page 56 56 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [GnAt. L. intrenchments on the Chattahoochee. Leggetts division moved down to Howells Ferry, on the Chattahoochee; drove the enemy away on the opposite side of the river, where they were erecting rifle-pits; left a brigade there andfour 24-pounder howitzers (brass), and then moved up the river toward the mouth of Nickajack Creek, and connected with Gresham. We have had some pretty lively skirmishing and a good deal of artillery firing. The enemy appear to have strong works north of the Chattahoochee, but if they remain where they are to-morrow I think we can punish them severely, as I am getting batteries into posi- tion to-night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHEIISON, Major- General. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Gordons, on Tamers Perry Road, Ga., Jnly 5, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I send you herewith sketehes* of the position of the Army of the Tennessee to-night. Early this forenoon Greshams division, of Blairs command, charged and carried a line of rebel rifle-pits on the Turners Ferry road, and then pressed forward until about 6 p. m. they gained a position on Nickajack Creek, within about 500 yards of rebel intrenchments on the Chattahoochee. Leggetts division moved down to Howells Ferry across the Chattahoochee; drove the enemy away on the opposite side of the river, where they were erecting rifle-pits; left a brigade there and four 24-pounder howitzers (brass), and then moved up the river toward the mouth of Nickajack Creek, and connected with Gresham. We have had some pretty lively skirmishing and a good deal of artillery firing. The rebels appeared to have strong works north of the Chattahoochee, but if they remain where they are to-morrow I think we can punish them severely, as I am getting batteries in position to-night. You can move up as soon as practicable toward Widow Mitchells. In the mean time I expect to receive orders from Major- General Sherman. Hookers train is on the Sandtown road, at least a portion of it; where his troops are I do not know, as I have not seen or heard any firing to my left to-day. Yours, truly, JAS. B. MiPIIERSON, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field,three miles from Railroad Bridge, Jnly 5, 18648p. m. Major-General MCPHERSON: GENERAL: I have ordered Schofield over to this road, in rear of the center, preparatory to moving him over to about the month of Rotten- wood or IRoswell Factory according to reports I may receive from General Garrard. I was in hopes you would get control of the ridge commanding Turners Ferry before the enemy could get across, but I think it is now too late unless you have gained the ridge described as lying along the Chattahoochee above the mouth of Kickajack. Do not * See ~i. 57, 58 Page 57 57 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. cavalry. 17~A.C. cavalry. POSITIONS OF THE CORPS OF THE ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, ON THE EVENING OF JULY 5TH. CRAP. Li N Page 58 H H r z H 0 t -4 0 %~?A- 0 0 r ~- ~ ~ ~cZzz~ V __ ~r Page 59 CHAP. U] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 59 attempt it except it be certain of success or unless you know that some part of Johnstons army or material is not yet across. My information is that Hoods and Polks corps are across and that Hardee remains on this side occnpying a line of intrenchments from the bridge down to Nickajack. I rather think that the enemy will preserve this order of things until we develop our game. Stoneman will continue to threaten the river between Nickajack and Sweet Water, and you may co-operate and gain any substantial advantage you can, but be prepared to move wherever events may call. Hooker should be up nearer to Palmer. Howards left is on the Chattahoochee about Paces Ferry, where the enemy had a pontoon bridge, which is cut loose an(l is swung to their bank. I understand he has two pontoon bridges at the railroad bridge. That bridge is still good, and was being very actively used to-day in passing trains. We have the road to within abont two miles of the bridge, including Vinings Station, where Johnston was last night. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, In the Field, Ga., July 5, 18647 p. m. Maj. Gen. J. B. MCPHERSON, Commanding Department of the Tennessee: GENERAL: Please inform me what the situation is after your oper- ations this evening, and report what you think can be done to-morrow in case the enemy remain on this side the river. I will move down early in the morning and co-operate with you. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 5, 1864. Brig. Gemi. T. W. SWEENY: SIR: The general commanding directs me to state that he wishes you to throw a strong line of skirmishers forward and follow up the enemy, picking up stragglers. GEO. E. FORD, Captain and Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. T. W. SWEENY, Commanding $ eeond Division: You will move with your command, following General Veatchs divis- ion, across Kickajack Creek and taking the Sandtown road. General Veatch follows the Fifteenth Corps, and it will probably be some little time before he nioves. By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 60 60 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 5, 18648 p. m. Brigadier-General LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: General Gresham succeeded in throwing skirmishers across the iNickajack this afternoon, and is ordered to attack the ene- mys works to-morrow morning early. He will have to form his com- mand under the fire of the fort after crossing the creek. The major- general commanding therefore desires you at daylight to-morrow morning to open vigorously from every gun you have upou the ene- mys works to divert their attention from General Greshams move- ments. Any other diversion you can make will be to the advantage of the command. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, July 5, 1864. Captaiu DAYTON, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have to report for the information of the major-general commanding that my command is camped on the Willeyo Creek near Roswell Factory. My advance is at the Factory. I will destroy all buildings. The bridge at this point over the river is burnt by the rebels. The ford is passable; so reported by citizens. I sent a regi- ment to the paper-mills, burnt the paper-mills, tlourin g-mills, an dma- chine-shops. The citizens report the banks of the river high at Powers Ferry and batteries in position on south bank. They had a pontoon bridge at Paces Ferry, a few miles below, where a portion of their army crossed. There is a road running from Roswell Factory down the river below the paper-mills, and near the mills and above passes on the bank of river. As fast as possible I will send information of the roads, fords, ferries, & c. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier. General, Commanding Division. SANDTEWN FERRY, GA., July 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: GENERAL: I think, or at least hope, that during the past six or seven days we have accomplished all that was expected of us; if not, it has not been from [lack of] efforts to do so. We have worked day and night and covered a good deal of country. I was detained on the 1st by represen- tations from General McCook to the effect that a few days before a large cavalry force had been in Villa Rica, and the correctness of which I was forced to ascertain by sending out strong scouting parties, and also to see where the force had gone to. I found that the force had been a good deal magnified, and that it had gone either south of the Chatta- hoochee River or across the Sweet Water near its mouth, where there is a good ford and the only one on the creek. As soon as we got to th Page 61 CHAP. L.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 61 Chattahoochee IRiver I kept one brigade acting along its north bank in hopes that it might indnce the enemy to think it yonr intention to cross sonth of the railroad, and it seems from the inclosed dispatches this morning picked np on the road that it had its effect. We covered the river from Campheliton up as far as Sandtown, and had not General MeCook been withdrawn by General Elliott yesterday, I think he would have been able to have helped ns to get to Howells Ferry yesterday. As it was we did not get there until 8 oclock this morning. One divis- ion of General Blairs relieved one of my brigades yesterday, on the road crossing the Nickajack a few miles above its month, and another division of General Blairs has just now taken the place of my remain- ing brigade at Howells Ferry. I have now one brigade at Bakers Ferry, one at and below Sandtown, and the third in reserve. Our horses are improving every day; we get plenty for them and a good deal for the men from the country. Our ration return has never equaled our effective strength, which I was not aware of until orders induced me to compare the ration and field returns. We are ready for any- thing except guarding communications in the rear. If Barry has got a good four-gun battery, I could make use of it, as I have a lot of dismounted men I could make use of to support it. We have all the transportation we want and can move at any time, with twenty days supply for the men. All we lack is some ammunition for some of our arms, and that I am told is not to be obtained. General MeCook informs inc that he is in the same fix. I wish I could get my regiment, or rather the regiment to which I belong (the Fourth), with us. Cant you manage it0? I inclose a sketch of this region. * Very respectfully, & c., GEORGE STONEMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIvISiON OF THE Miss~ssir~i, In the Field, near Chattahoochee Uiver, Jul~ ~, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Gommanding Garairy: DEAR STONEMAN: I have your note, which is very satisfactory. I have heard of your general success from other quarters. I will in- struct General Barry to give you a good four-gun battery, if he can get one from some of the commands. Our left is now on the river above the railroad bridge. We find ilardees corps intrenched on this side the river from the bridge down to the mouth of the Nickajack; we hear the other two corps and militia are across; we can see Atlanta plain, but it will require hard fighting and scieiice to take it. It must be done. Garrard is gone up to Roswell, and I hope to hear from him to-night. I think Johnston will send all his effective cavalry round by the north, to strike our railroad, and must keep Garrard well on that flank and McCook to 5u1)pOrt him. I think you can whip anything that attempts to cross on that flank. Keep up the delusion of our crossing below Sandtown as long as possible, and I have reason to believe the enemy expects it. We have a nice game of war and must make no mistakes. We ought to have canght Johnston on his retreat, but he had prepared the way too well. We have killed and crippled a good lb api~car ill the Atlas Page 62 62 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. number and have a couple thousand prisoners, some taken in fair fight and some gathered up straggling behind. He can no longer look into our camps as he did from Kenesaw. Try and pick up as many of his scouts as you can, and gather in as prisoners every citizen of whom you entertain a suspicion. Schofield will move over to our left, up the Chat- tahoochee about Roswell or below it. Write often. My headquafters are on the main road about three miles back from the railroad bridge. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR GORDONS ON TURNERS FERRY ROAD July 5, 18649 p. m. Major-General STONEMAN, Commanding Cavalry: The enemy are still reported in force in the works we were firing at yesterday. I inclose herewith a letter from General Sherman, which will give you his idea of matters.* Schofield goes over to the left, and you are to go to-morrow on the right aiid continue to threaten the river. I am having Nickajack thoroughly examined to see if I cannot find some point or points where a crossing can be effected and a good position secured. You will continue to move your cavalry so as best to cover the country and threaten the river. I will send one division of Dodges command to Howells Ferry and one to the intersection of Howells Ferry and Sandtown road. I will endeavor to keep you ad- vised of any important movement along my front. Yours, truly, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Rufts Station, Ga., July 5, 1864. Col. N. GLEASON, Commanding, Marietta: COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that you endeavor to preserve public and private property in Marietta as nearly as possi- ble in the state in which you found it, and prevent plundering and pillaging. You will arrest all deserters and stragglers from all the armies and forward those belonging to the Army of the Cumberland to these headquarters by squads of from thirty to fifty. Those belonging to the Armies of the Tennessee and the Ohio you will send to the head- qnarters of their respective armies as opportunity offers. You will per- mit no officer to take quarters in Marietta, except by order of Major- General Sherman, and the topographical engineers of the Army of the Cumberland who have been sent there to establish a lithographic press for making niaps. You will permit all Union people desiring to go north for the purpose of remaining there to do so, and order transpor- tation for themselves, families, and baggage. You will arrest all resi- dent rebels and report their names to these headquarters. You will seize all cotton belonging to the rebel Government, or which has been abandoned, and turn it over to the quartermasters department for ship- ment north, taking receipts for the same, which receipts you will for- *~ee p. 56 Page 63 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 63 ward to these headquarters. All cotton belonging to private individ- uals you will have nothing to do with any more than any other private property. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 5, 1864. M~jor.General STEEDMAN: A rebel officer, deserter, reports that the rebel cavalry have drawn eight days rations and are to make a big raid, 10,000 strong, upon our railroad, passing by the left of the Federal army. Caution your com- manders. WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. RESACA, GA., July 5, 1864. Capt. C. L. WHITE, Assistant A~jatant- General: A dispatch from Colonel Laiboldt (Dalton) says 100 to 200 rebel cav- alry are scouting above here, east of the railroad, three miles south of this place. I have ordered Colonel Murray to send a strong force in the direction of Spring Place to try to intercept them. I think the force reported by General Yandever passed Villanow Sunday night and tore up the track south of Tunnel Hill. They may have formed a junction with the Sixth Georgia Cavalry, and comprise the force Colonel Laiboldt speaks of. I think half a regiment should be placed between Calhoun and Adairsville. GREEN B. RAUM, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. RESACA, July 5, 186412 p. m. Capt. C. L. WHITE, Assistant Adjutant- General: A train of sixteen cars has been captured and burned three miles and a half south of Dalton to-night. Colonel Murray seiit 200 men out in that direction this evening. The enemy is reported to be 300 strong. I have advised Colonel Murray to send out an additional force. GREEN B. RAUM, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Kingston, Ga., July 5, 1861. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM YANDEVER, Rome, Ga.: Do you know of any crossing on the Etowah between my outposts, three miles below here, and Rome G? I have no cavalry here, and as yet have had but little time to explore the country adjoining my line. At last account Hart (Sixth Georgia) was at Jasper. JNO. E. SMITH, Brigadier- General Page 64 64 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. ROME, GA., July 5, 1864. Brigadier-General SMITH: J have no information that any force has crossed the Etowah between Rome and Kingston. WM. VANDEVER, Brigadier- General. ROME, July, 5, 1864. Brig. Gem J. E. SMITH: A rebel soldier captured reports that Friday morning fifty of Wheelers cavalry sconts left Cedartown destined to the railroad iiear Calhoun or Resaca; expects to form a junction with Harts (Sixth Georgia) cavalry. He says this force is prepared with torpedoes to blow up trains; he reports also that Pillow is to act in concert with an additional force. This statement has come to me through two sources. WiXI. VANDEVER, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE ETOWAH, Chattanooga, July 5, 1864. General SMITH, Kingston, Ga.: Brigadier-General Whipple telegraphs that the rebel cavalry in con- siderable force have passed around the left of our army. Keep a sharp lookout for them. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, iifajor- General, Commanding. (Same to commanding officer at Dalton.) STEVENSON, July 5, 1864. General STEEDMAN: A deserter from the rebel lines this morning caine into my camp and informed nie that 5,000 or 6,000 rebels, under Forrest and Wheeler, are now encamped on Sand Mountain near mouth of Raccoon Creek. He was taken by a scouting party, and learned these facts while with them. Also that they are intending a dash on the road this side of Chattanooga somewhere. SAM. C. VANCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. CHATTANOOGA, TENN., July 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: A force of 5,000 or 6,000 strong is reported to be on Sand Mountain. JAMES 13. STEEDMAN, ]lIajor- General Page 65 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAr. LI 65 HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Col. GREEN B. RAUM, Kingston, Ga., July 5, 1864. Resaca, Ga.: (~neral Vandever, at Rome, informs me that on Friday fifty of Wheelers scouts left Cedartown, destined to the railroad near Cal- houn or Resaca, expecting to form a junction with Harts cavalry (Sixth Georgia). He states that this force is prepared with torl)edoes to blow up traitis. He also states that Pillow is to act in concert with an addi- tional force. CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gem WILLIAM VANDEVER, Kingston, Ga., July 5, 1864. Commanding at Rome, Ga.. GENERAL: For your information I would respectfully state that on the 2d instant the cavalry command of Colonel Lowe, then guarding the railroad und Etowah River, were relieved by my division from Til- ton, Ga., to this place, and from Caldwells Ford to Murchisons Ford, placing at Tilton the Seventeenth Iowa Infantry, Col. C. R. Wever counnanding; Resaca, Tenth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, Col. F. C. Deiinling, also Second Brigade headquarters, Col. Green B. Raum commanding; Calhoun, one-half Fifty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Lieut. Col. John P. Hall commanding, and at Adairsville one-half Fifty- sixth Illinois, Captain commanding. The river at and between the points mentioned above is strongly guarded by the Fifth Iowa and Ninety-third Illinois, nuder command of Col. Jabez Banbury, command- ing Third Brigade. As my present force is composed entirely of infan- try, which will not enable me to patrol the country as I should desire to do, rendering my line liable to attack without warning, I should be obliged for all information in regald to the movements of the enemy that may come to your knowledge. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. E. SMITH, Brigadier- General. ON CHATTAHOOCHEE, July 6, 18617 p. m. (Received 7th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: I have just received Secretary Stantons dispatch, and do not under- stand how Semmes and crew were allowed to leave the sinking Ala- bama in an English yacht. I would have preferred the President had not i)roclaimned martial law in Kentucky, but simply allowed the mili- tary commanders to arrest and banish all malcontents while the homiest and industrious stay-at-homes were encouraged by the increase of se- curity. Johnston made two breaks in the railroad, one above Marietta and one near Vinings Station. The former is already done, and John- stons army has already heard the sound of our locomotives. The tele- graph is done to Vinings, and the field wireisjust at my bivouac, and will S R RVOL XNXYIII~ PT Page 66 66 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAr. L. be ready to convey this to you as SOOII as translated into cipher. I pro- pose to stady the crossings of the Chattahoochee, and when all is ready to move quick. As a beginning I keep the wagons and troops well back from the river, and display to the enemy only the picket-hii~e, with a few batteries along at random. Have moved General Schofield to a point whence lie can in a single march reach the Chattahoochee, at a point above the railroad bridge, where there is a ford. At present the waters are turbid and swollen by the late rains; but if the present hot weather lasts the water will run down very fist. We have pontoons r crossing will be resisted, we mnst emiongh for four bridges but as on maneuver some. All the regular crossing-places are covered by forts, apparently of long construction; but we shall cross in due time, and in- stead of attacking Atl nta direct, or any of its forts, I propose to make a circuit, destroying all its railroads. This is a delicate movement and must be done with caution. Our army is in good condition and full of confidence; but the weather is intensely hot, aiid a good many men have falleii with sunstroke. This is a high and healthy country, and the sanitary condition of the army is good. W. T. SHEItMAN, Major- General. JIEADQUART1~RS DEPARTMENT OF THE CLTMBERLAND, Near Vinings & ation, Ga., July 6, 1861. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general conimanding directs that you only at- tempt to hold your present position by sti ong skirmish lines, and put your troops in camps where they will have shade and be convenient to water, and enjoy as much rest as possible dnring the few days that we are to i~eunain here, and prepare roads so that they can with rapidity and without difficulty debouch upon the main roads leading through the conutry. Corps comnianders will also make use of this opportunity to bring forward clothing to issue to the men. Very uespectfully, your obedient servant, Chif of ASt(aj. (Sanme to Generals Howard aiid Hooker.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Vinings & ation, July 6, 1864. Major-General I-lOOKER: I wish you to move your corps across Kickajack Creek and take I)Ositioui either on the right of Davis division, or if there is not room enough between his regiment and the creek, encamp in reserve behiimid 1)avis. Make as little show of your force as possible so asto conceal your position from the enemy. Keep nothing in his view except a strong skirmish line. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding Page 67 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNlON. 67 hEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, July 6, 1364. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the Twentieth Corps crossed the Nickajack this afternoon and two divisions of it established on a line indicated by your instructions of to-day. No news. My headquarters are in rear of the center of the corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPh HOOKER, ]Jliajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. CHiEF OF CAVALRY DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. B. M. MoCooK, Commanding First Cavalry Division: You will proceed with your command to Powers Ferry an(l hold that position, communicating with General Garrard, who it is rel)orted is at or near Howells Factory (of linen map No. 3). Your supplies will be drawn from Marietta. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, XV. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier- General and Chief of Cavalry. hEADQUARTERS FiRST i)ivIsiON CAVALRY, July 6, iSbi Lient. B. F. How, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that, in compliance with orders received and also with verbal directions from Major-General Sherm in I pio ceeded to this point (Hargroves house), divided my force, sendni ~ one detachment to Powers Ferry, and marching with the other to thc mouth of Soap Creek, about six miles distant, where there is also a fw y and a bad foid, said by citizens to be almost impracticable. Artilleiy u is opened from the other side of the river on my men at both points one mu at the upper amid two at the lower lPrry, without aity eftPct however except killing 3 horses. I found a ., s Soap Creek three bri(loe acros , quamters of a mile from its month, l)llrned; the bridge at lioswell Fac- tory has also been burned. The distance between here and there is twelve miles. There is no difficulty in connunnicating with General Garrird, as there are no rebels on this side of the Chattahoochee. I find this country full of ravines and bridges, tolerably open and well watered, but there is neither grass, wheat, nor other forage on which to subsist stock. The little that was imi the vicinity has been exhausted by Wheelers force, who has been encamped here, umitil yesterday niorning, for the last fix~e (lays. I will furnish you with a map of the roads, & c., some time to-morrow. None of the enemys trains had passed this way; they all crossed omi bridges below. I forgot to mention that at Powers Ferry there is a small boat aimd a wire stretched across. I can get my artillery in i)osition withimm 500 yards of their battery. This ferry is well watched and guarded. I have pickets also at momuth of Soap Creek and at 4 ohnsomis Ferry, a mile and, a half above that poim7tt. I amP, sir, very respeetfnlly, yomir obedient servamit, B. Al. MeCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding DLision Page 68 68 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CntL HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DrvIsIoN, Near Roeweli, .7.4 4 18647 p. a. Major-General SHEnAN (Jommandi4 Army: Gnnua: Boewell was occupied by my command with but small opposition, the few hundred rebels on the roads falling back before my advance, and burning the bridge after crossing. There is a good ford at this place, so I am informed (the shallow ford), but as the opposite banks command this one, and pickets lie on the other side, I have not crossed any of my men. The approach to Boswell from Marietta can be made on two roadsone, alit approaches within two miles of Boswell, is by a crooked, hilly road that could be easily defended; the other the riverroad, passes so closetotheriver as tocomeunderthefireoithe enemys rifles. I had one man shot on this road from the other side. There are branch roads which lead into the Cummings road and the old Alabama road, and.the approach on the latter is the best and safest in case the enemy is in this vicinity or secrecy is desirable. The posi- tion in rear of Boswefl for me is not good, as roads come -in from all directions, bat by being on Soap Creek lean watch all this country, the fords, & c., and passing west of Sweat Mountain will have the short line on the enemy. There is a road leading over to the old Alabama road, a distance of about two miles. As fast as I can gain information I will send-it to you. My impression is that Johnston will make no attempt on this flank, bit that his cavalry has gone to his left. He will try to keep his com- munications with the source of his supplies westward. All information from citizens and his acts in this vicinity lead to this beliet His cav- alry instead of falling back to the fords and bridges in this locality crossed on the bridges, & c.7 with the infantry. Eveqthing is taken out of this country; the grain cut by the rebel soldiers-and hauled of All citizens of ~ also have loft. There were some fine factories here, one woolen factory, capqoity 30 000 yards a month, and has fur- nished up to within afew weeks i4ioo yards per month to the rebel Government, the Government furnishing men and material. Capacity of cotton factory 210 looms, 191,086 yards per month, and 51,666 pounds of thread, and 4229 pounds of cotton rope. This wasworked exclusively for the rebel (iovnment. The other cotton factory, one mile and a half from town, I have no data concerning. There was six months supply of cotton on hand. Over the woolen factory the French flag was flying, but seeing no Federal flag above it I had the building burnt. AU are burnt. The cotton factory was worked up to the time of its destruction some 400 women being employed. There was some cloth which had 6een made since yesterdaymorning, which I will save for our hospitals (several thousand. yards of cotton cloth), also some rope and thread. I have just learned that McCook is near the paper-mills, on Soap Creek, and I may not take up - the position first proposed in this letter. I will try to disguise the strength of my command. Very respectfully,- your obedient servant, GAItBAItD, - Brigadier-Gener4 Commanding. The machinery of the cotton factory cost before the war 400,000. The superintendent estixiiates that it alone was worth with its material, sc., when buuit DYQF ~ milliou of our money. - K. GABBARD, Brigadier-General, Commandinq Page 69 CHAP. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. (39 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE ThssIssIPPI, At war (iltattaltoochee Ja the Field ~t , ly U, .1S64. General GARRARD: GENERAL: I have just received your note announcing that you have possession of Roswell. This is important; watch well the crossing there, but not in force; keep your main farce concealed somewhat. General MeCook has just started for some point between Rotten wood and Soap Creek, where he will be near you. I propose to throw Schofield over OIL that flank the moment I propose to attempt a crossing; fords are much better than bridges, and therefore have the river examined well as to fords. I am on the main road at the point where a branch goes to Yin- on railroad. iiuwaru is at v1nIng~ Hm~ ~ ~ at McPhersons right is at Howells Ferry, below Nickajack. The enemy holds this bank from the railroad bridge down to Nickajack, and seems to have it well fortified. Atlanta in plain view. Stoneman threatens the river down to Sweet Water. I will 50011 have a telegraph at Vinings and you can then communicate by Marietta. You will have iest for a few days and should take advantage of all grain fields. Yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. T{EADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO En the Field, July U, 1364. Maj. Gen. J. B. MCPHERSON, Comma a ding Department of the Tena e8~ee: GENERAL: By direction of Major-General Sherman I move this morn- ing to position on the left. I start at 6 oclock. General Stoneman will remain upon the right until further orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCIIOFIELT), iltajor- (iieneral, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS Anxiy o~ 3~H1~ OHIO in the Field, July 6, 1~%44 a.. m. l3iIo Gen. J. 1). Cox, Comm wading Third birTh ion, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: The corps will move to position on the left this morning, near Rufts Mill and Ruft?s Station. The Second l)ivision will move in advance an(I will start at 6 oclock. Let l3artcrs brigade join you and the trains follow. Very respeetfull , your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ilLajor- General, Commanding. IN TIlE FIELD, GA., July 6, 1864. Maj. Geii. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Caralry: In accordance with instriletion s from Major-General Sherman not to display any troops, I have directed the two regiments and battery be Page 70 [CHAP. L 70 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. lo1IfiI1t~ to (reiieral Leggetts division at ih)welPs Ferry to leave there ~ And join their division, and have countermanded the order to Major- General I)odge to send a division to the ferry. This will leave the l)oint without ally troops excel)t your cavalry scouts. General Dodge will, however, leave a brigade at the intersection of the Saudtown and howells Ferry roa(i5. I am also directed to send you a battery of four 8-inch Rodinan guns. Where will you have theni rel)ort ~? Please notify General Blair, who is to furnish the guns. Very truly, yours, JAS. B. M~I~EIiSON, Mpor- General. IN THE FIELD, GA., Jniy G, 18645 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Cavalry: Have your scouts and patrols along the river l)articularly~ vigilant. The enemy have been for the last two hours moving across the river south, and seem to come -from the enemys right or center, as seen from the hill where we were yesterday. They are too far off for any of our guns to reach them. Yours, truly, .l~AS. B. McPI~EII~ON, Major- General. JuLy 6, 18649.30 p. In. General McPRERSoN: Your note of this S p. m. confirms my impression that there has been for the past forty-eight hours an extensive movement of the enemy down the river. Trains of wagons have beeu seen dn.ring the day and heard (luring the ni~ht-timne moving rapidly down the river, and long columns of cavalry have been seen and heard. Every prominent point on the other side has a redoubt and rifle-pits which effectually prevent us fromn getting near the river. I however got close enough to-day to see it in three places, and tonn(l it not so wide as t expected. rfl)e bottoms are very narrow and the ground gently sloping down on each side. This 5i(IC is nimich mnore open than the other, the woods approaching the streani only in a very few places, and we were shelled whenever we came out into the fields imi any force, so that we have to stay with the animals a mile or two back from the river in the woods. They have all the scows and canoes on their own side, and well guarded by men behind rifle-pits, armued with guns of much longer range than oar car- bines. The negroes that came across the river last night say that Wheeler with his comnpany~~ passed down the river yesterday and last night, and the heavy smnokes back from the river opposite the month of Sweet Water indicate no inconsiderable force in that region. The mie- groes say that the troops were going down to keep us from crossing at Canipbeliton, or in that vicinity, and that they are throxving np works all along the river. I have myself seen themu at work in many places 111(1 at all the crossings. I am now covering upward of twelve miles of the river with pickets and seoimts. I have not yet heard from the scout I sent down to Campbellton. I have also gnards at all the crossings on the Sweet Water as far up as the crossing on the road from Powder Springs to Campbellton Page 71 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 71 The country, with the exception of a skirt on the river and creek, is densely timbered and quite broken. Please transmit the information hereiii contained, or such portion as may be interesting to know, to General Sherman, as he desired me to keep him informed and advised. Respectfully, & c., STOKEMAN, General. I sleep to-night on the San(ltown road between the forks of the How- ells Ferry road and the old Alabama road, just in advance of where I was last night. I will try and see you in the morning. G. S. (Forwarded to General Sherman.) HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSWPI, In the Field, Chattahoochee River, July 6, 1864. General ROUSSEAU, Na~hville and Decatur: That cavalry expedition must now be off, and must proceed with the utmost energy and confidence. Everything here is favorable, and I have offichil information that General A. J. Smith is out from Memphis with force enough to give Forrest full occupation. Expeditions inland are also out from Vicksburg and Baton Rouge, as well as against Mo- bile. If managed with secrecy and rapidity the expedition cannot fail of success and will accomplish much good. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. CHATTAHOOCHEE, July 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. L. I-I. ROUSSEAU, Nashville: Has that expedition started ~? W. T. SHERMAN, ]lf(ijOP- General. DALTON, July 6, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN, Commanding: I have received information that rebel cavalry, in a line that took one hour in passing, went by Mr. Hollands house in time bend of Connesauga River, six miles southeast from here. B. LAIBOLIiT, Colonel, Commanding Post. I)ALToN, July 6, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN: The sante party of raiders that burned the train yester(lay are re- ported to be from 300 to ~00 strommg at the bend of Connesauga River Page 72 72 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. 1. near hollands house, three miles from the railroad and six miles south- east of this place. I notified the commanding officer at Resaca yester- day at 2 p. m. of their presence, with the request to send llJ) his cav- alry, which appears not to have been done. I also endeavored to warn him again this morning. B. LATBOLDT Commanding Post. CHATTANOOGA, July 6, 1864. General SMITH: My dispatch yesterday should have said rebel cavalry reported pass- ing round left of our army. J. 13. STEEDMAN, ]JLoJor- General. STEVENSON, July 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. B. STEEDMAN: From all information that I can gain, there is no large force at time mouth of Raccoon Creek, only some scouting parties. SAM. C. VANCE Colonel, Comn ianding Post. MARIETTA, GA., July 6, 18648 a. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: Enemys rear guard only on this side Chattahoochee, now holding strong imitrenched position covering railroad amid road bridges. Our flanks rest on river above and below, and cavalry holds right bank from Roswell to mouth of Sweet Water Creek, except just the bridge- head mentioned. Railroad will be repaired by 3 p. in., so that trains can go directly to front. Telegraph is working to heneral Shermans headquarters, but is interrupted south of Dalton. Shern~an expects to cross the Chattahoochee within three days. We hear nothing late from the East. J. C. VAN DUZER. CAMP ON CHATTAHOOCHEE, GA., July 6, 18649.30 p. in. Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, (Received 9.40 a. in. 7th.) War Department: No material chamige in position of army since my cipher of this morn- ing. Railroads and telegraph working to Vinings Bridge, and field- wire opened this evening. I suggest by letter a change in form of field insulators and instruments. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL ) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT FIELD ORDERS, AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 60. ) Near Gordons, on Turners Ferry Road, July 6, 1864. Major-General 1)odge, commnanding Left Wing, Si xtcemmth Arumy Corps, will nmove one division of his command down to Howells Ferr Page 73 CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. Civ~. U 73 and relieve the brigade of General Leggetts division there stationed. The brigade, on being relieved, will join its command. Major-General Dodge will move his other division (lown to the junction of the How- ells Ferry and Sandtown roads, where it will take up position. By order of i\laj. Gen. James B. McPherson: W. T. CLARK, A8sistant Adjutant- ~1eueral. NEAR CITATTAHOOCHEE, Gx., July 7, 186411 a. rn. (Received ~ p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. XV. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: General Garrard reports to me that he is in possession of Roswell, where were several valuable cotton and woolen factories in full oper- ation, also paper-mills, all of which, by my order, he destroyed by fire. They had been for years engaged exclusively at work for the Confed- erate Government, and the owner of the woolen factory (lisplayed the French flag; but-as he failed also to show the United States flag, Gen- eral Garrard burned it also. The main cotton factory was valued at a million of United States dollars. The cloth on hand is reserve(1 for use of United States hospitals, and I have or(lere(l General Garrard to arrest for treason all owners and employ6s, foreign and native, and send them under guard to Marietta~, whence I will send them North. Being exempt from conscription, they are as much governed by the rules of war as if in the ranks. The women can find employin cut in Indiana. This whole region was devoted to maiiufactories, but I will destroy every one of them. Johnston is maneuvering against my right, and I will try and pass the Chattahoochee by my left. Ask Mr. Stanton not to l)ublish the substance of my dispatches, for they reach Richmond in a day, and are telegraphed at once to Atlanta. The At- lanta papers contain later news from Washington than I get from Nashville. Absolute silence in military matters is the only safe rule. Let our public learn patience and common sense. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY Divisiox o~ THE MIssissippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 7, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Auny oJ the Cinnberiand: GENERAL: By direction of the major-general commanding, you will please order your pontoon train party, with bridge, to report to General Schofield, near the mouth of Soap Creek, as early to-morrow as pos- sible: also direct General Howard to send a regiment along up the river :o connect with General Schofield, the bridge over Rottenwood Creek having been repaired. I am, & c., L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp Page 74 74 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAI~. L. [IrulovMement.] HEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 7, 18641.05 a. rn. The in closed copy of General Shermans communication is respect- frilly forwarded for information of Major-General Howard. SOUTHARI) HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 7, 18644.30 p. rn. Major-General HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Corps: GENERAL: General Sherman has ordered Schofield to cross the river to-night at Itoswell Factory, and secure a lodgment on the south side. To divert the enemys attention as much as possible from him I wish you to display a force in front of Paces Ferry, about sundown, as if you were making preparations to cross there. Open with your artillery on their batteries on the o1)pOsite side, and after getting the range cease firing until about 8 p. in. At that hour fire rapidly for fifteen minutes or half an hour, with the elevation necessary to reach the enemys batteries, and have persons posted near the river, in some se- cure place, with instructions to give commands as if marching a strong column to the ferry to effect the laying of a bridge; at the same time keeping up a heavy fire from the skirmish line on the river-bank. Respectfully, GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Vinings Station, Ga., July 7, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The nmjor-general commanding directs that you send a regiment along up the river to connect with General Schofield, the bridge over Itottenwood Creek having been repaired. 1 am, very respectfully, S& UTHAIU) HOFFMAN Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Vinings Station, Ga., July 7, 186411.30 p. m. Respectfully forwarded. I have directed General Newton to comply with the within order; but I do not precisely understand it, since the bridge across Rotten wood Creek is reported uninjured, and the place for Schofields cros~in~ to-night is Roswell Factory, between fifteen and twenty miles distant. The hour of sending this (lispatch is not named. Shall 1 dispatch thic regiment at once to Roswell Factory ~ I have ordered it at daylight to morrow. 0. 0. H0WA1~D, Major- General Page 75 CHAP. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 75 hEADQUARTERS FiRST DIvisioN CAVALRY, July 7, 1864. Maj. J. C. McCoy, Aide-de- Camp: Some of my men, four or five, got to the other bank of the river yes- terday evening. This afternoon I sent a small party of the First T en nessee to attempt a Crossing; the enemy permitted them to reach the middle of the river, when they opened so briskly with artillery and musketry that they could not get across. I have possession of an island near the middle of the river where everything they do on the opposite baiik can be observed. A ford is reported some six or seven miles above here only knee-deep and practicable for infantry. II have sent officers up to examine it and report. So soon as they retnrn I will send you the result. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. M. McCOOK, Brigadier- Uenera 1, Corn manding. IIDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, July 7, 1864. (Received 2.30 p. in.) Captain LE ROY: Agreeably with the directions of the general commanding, I sent a small party to get possession of the island above Powers Ferry, with the design of crossing the river. The party (from First Tennessee) was allowed to reach the middle of the stream, when the enemy opened upon them in such force that the officer iii command returned. As the ford was ascertaine(i to be very rocky, I did not think best to renew the at- tempt. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. DORR, Colonel, Commanding First Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY I)ivisiox, July 7, 18G15 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Army GENERAL 1 have nothing special to report. All day to-day I have l)eell inspecting the country near here and find I can take position to advantage north of Roswell and about two miles fioni the towmm and command all the roads between that place and the Etowah, which lead toward the railroad, leaving MeCooks olivision to look after the part front the 1)aI)er-muills to Paces Ferry. I think I will move early to-mom- row-. I have [not] seen nor heard of any of the enemy this side of Mc- Afees Bridge, eight miles up the river. Time only good ford I can hear of is just at this poimit. The Island Ford, three mu iles above, is good t%r footmen, but no roads lead to it or from it, and on the other side it is thick woods and very hilly and two miles over to the Atlanta rOa(l. This ford could be used to secure the lower one, but not for artillery, cay Page 76 76 THE ATLANTA OAMPAIGL (Ow. ?~. airy, or wagons until we hold the other b& nk and make a road. I can hear of no practicable fords except these within fifteen miles of this pin McAfees Bridge is not burnt and the rebels hold it. ery rospectftully, y obedient servant Brigadier-G.,wrai, Oomsaudiutj. HDQRs. MIUTANY DivisioN or THE Mississippi, In tiee Field, sear OhsttaJaooekee, July 7,1864. beneral (flnAn RoeweI 1, (1..: GEnta: Your reportis received and is most acceptable. Ihadno idea that the factories at Boswell remained in operation, but supposed the macbinery had all been removed. Their utter destruction is right and meets my entire approval, and to make the matter complete you will arrestthe owners and employ6s and send them, under gaa4 charqed with treason,to Marietta, and Iwilisee as toanyman inAmencahoist- ing the French flag and then devoting his labor and capital in supply- ing armies in open hostility to our Government and claiming the benefit of his neutral flag. Should you, under the impulse of anger, natural at contemplating such perfidy hang the wretch, I approve the act before- hand. I have sent Generaf Schofleldto reconnoiter over on that flank, and I want a lodgment made on the other bank as soon as possible any- where from Roswell don to the vicinity of Soap Creek. I have no doubt the opposite bank is l)ioketed, but as you say,. the main cavalry force of Wheeler has moved to the other flank, and we should take ad- vantage of it. If you can makes lodgment on the south bank any- where and secure it well, do so. General Schofield will be near to follow it up and enlarge the foothold. He La just started from Buffs Sta- tion a few minutes before I received your dispatch, but I telegraphed the substance to be sent to overtake him. Keep a line of couriers back to Marietta and telegraph me very fully and often. I now have the wires to my bivouac. By selecting some one ford, say the second or third below the mouth of Willeyo Creek, on your sketch, and holding a force th6re concealed say a brigade, with your battery, then have the heads of each your obier two brigades close by aboveand below at the nearest fords, let detachments from these latter brigades cross at night at the nearest fords, and, without firing a gun, close .in front of the bripade in position ready to cross with artillery. When across with artillery the best position on a commanding hill should be fortified. I will see that the cavalry is relieved by General Schofield at once. I merely suggest this plan and its execution about daylight to-monow~ andl prefer you should do it. I assure you, spite of any little disappointment I may have expressed, I feel for yon personally not only respect but affection, and wish for your unmeasured success and reputation, but dowish to inspire all cavalry with my conviction that caution and prudence shonid be but a very small element in their characters. Irepeatmy orders thatyouarrestallpeople,maleandfemale,con. nected with those factories, no matter what the clamor, and let them foot It, under guard, to Marietta, whence I will send them by cars to the North. Destroy and make the same disposition of all mills save small flowing mills manifestly for local use, but all saw-mills and fac- tories dispose of effectually, and useful laborers, excused by reason o Page 77 CHAP L.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 77 their skill as manufacturers from conscription, are as much prisoners as if armed. The poor women will make a howl. Let them take along their children and clothing, providing they have the means of hauling or you can spare them. We will retain them until they can reach a country where they can live in peace and security. In your next letter give me as mnch information as you can as to the size and dimensions of the burned bridge at Roswell across the Chatta- hoochee. We have plenty of pontoon bridging, but I much prefer fords for so large an army as we have. I am, with respect, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, ]J~Iajor- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, July 7, 18649.50 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD: I have a letter from Garrard; he has possession of the factory at Roswell. I wish von to make an examination thereabouts and secure a foothold, fortified on the other side, anywhere about Roswell or mouth of Soap Creek. I also know that Johnstons cavalry has moved to the south flank. It is important to do this at once, for the fords are very important to us. W. T. SHERMAN, ]1fajo~- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Li the Field, July 7, 186411.15 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have just received your dispatch, of 9.50 a. in. I will go at once to lloswell and examine the ground, and prepare to cross to-morrow. J. M. SCHOFIELD, lJiaJor- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHio, In the Field, July 7, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: 1 am about starting to reconnoiter the river. Have you any addi- tional information from 0 arrard which would be of service to inc ~ J. M. SCHOFIELD, ilajor- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near the (Jhattaltooehee, July 7, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Nothing new from General Garrard. General McCook is abomit Soap Creek. lie drew fire from the enemys artillery at two points i)etweeu ~Rottenwood and Soap Creek, across the Chattahoochee. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 78 78 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 7, 18617.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have Hot been able to reconnoiter as far as Roswell to-day. I find a pretty good crossing near month of Soap Creek. half a mile above the creek is a shallow ford where infantry can cross easily, but there is no road leading to it and it would be difficult to make one. Isliams Ferry just below mouth of the creek is a good place for a bridge. About 400 yards from the river on east side is a commanding ridge very favorable for a bridge-head. The crossiiig would be very (liffleult if that ridge were held iii force; but there appears at present only a squad of cavalry and one or two pieces of artillery. If there be no greater force to oppose it, the crossing can l)e effected very easily by crossing infantry at the ford above, to clear the ridge and cover the construction of the bridge. The ground on this side is favorable for our artillery. Johnstons cavalry being gone, I take it for granted that I can cross at Itoswe]l without difficulty. The higher up the river the less probability of serious opposition; therefore I think we may choose whichever poiut you deem it most desirable to have. I propose to move at daylight and cross the river with as little delay as possible, and believe there is very little chance of failure, no matter whicli point you select. J. M. SChOFIELD, JiJ(~j/O r- ~hmerat. IIDQRS. MILITARY I)1Y1510N OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 7, 1861 General SCHOFIELD, Anifs Station: You may move to the neighborhood of the month of Soap Creek. Mask well your command and make a lodgmnent across the Chattahoo- chee, but do not attempt it until you have a ford near by by which to re-enforce the party first sent, or by which it may be necessary to retire. We cami, after lodgmnent, make roads to the crossing and mnay add 1)011- toomi bridues, of which we have enough for fonr bri(lges. After sectur- iilg a point ol~pOsite Soap Creek~ ltoswell will follow as a matter of course, and will be additional. The moment 1 Th am that General (A a- rard Imas made a loclgment at lioswell I will send a division of General MePhersomi to hold fast all lie muakes. With Itoswell aI1(l nmouth of Soap Creek, we have plenty of moomn, with Marietta as the depot. I will go down to General McPhersons and stir them up in the morning by way of diversion. W. T. SIJEIlMAN, Major- General, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO July 7, 1861. Major-General SHERMAN: The ford above the mouth of Soap Creek is an 01(1 fish-damn. I do not think it can be muade l)racticable for wagons, though it may be. I deem it important to have a bridge to throw across as soon as I have effected a lodgment, so that I can, without delay, put over force enough with artillery to make my positk~n secure. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- (#efteral Page 79 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 79 HDQRS. MILITARY DivIsioN OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 7, 1864. General SCHOFIELD, Puffs Station: I will order a pontoon train to report to you oii the ro 4. W. T. SHEliMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. JIEADQUARTER5 ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, 8yrna Camp-Ground, July 7, 18649 p. m. Brig. Gem J. D. Cox. Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Please have your division ready to move promptly at 4 oclock to-morrow morning. I will send you further instructions as soon as practicable. Can you tell where and what the artillery firing is which I hear in your direction ~? Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. lxi. SCHOFIELD, ]Iiiajor- General, Commanding. (Copy to General Hascall.) HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CoRPs, July 7, 186410.80 p. m. Colonel CAPRON, Commanding Brigade: I sent you an order by your staff officer to move down to Sandtown Ferry. Circumstances render it necessary to change your location, and I wish you would move by the Alabama road to-night in time to reach Sweet Water Town bridge (the point you occupied a few days ago) by daylight to-morrow morning. Your pickcts along the river will be re- lieved by the infantry to-morrow morning, after which they calm join you. Colonel Adams, who is a few miles below where you will be on Sweet Water Creek, thinks the enemy is in considerable force on this side of the Chattahoochee River, and west of Sweet Water Creek. I wish you would push scouting parties well out oft time Alabama road toward Villa Rica, and at the samue time to Powder Springs, going by the bridge over the Sweet Water Creek (the upper one) over which we passed, and returning via the bridge over Noycs Creek over which we passed, and around to the right. Pick up all the scouting parties you can amid arrest all suspicious persons. You and Colommel Adams act imi concert, and have an understanding with each other in regard to all movements. I will try to be with you to-morrow, if I can get through with General Sherman in time. Keep me advised of what you see, hear, and do, and oblige Very respectfully, & c., STONEMAN, General Page 80 80 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 7, 18648 a. m. General MCPHERSON: DEAR GENERAL: I Send McCoy down to see you. I did intend to ride the lines to-day but have my mind so intent on a crossing-place that I want to be near. The ears now run into Marietta and down as far as a break that will be repaired to-day about four miles back of the bridge. The enemy hold as a t~te-de-pont the hills from the Nickajack to a point about two miles above the bridge. I rather prefer this should be so, as he will have less on the other side. I wish you to display as much anxiety to cross as possible and as low down, but keel) your masses ready to move to the real quarter when required. I wish you to use artillery pretty freely, and if, as I understand, you have a plunging fire on the extreme point of that range near Nickajack get plenty of guns, say thirty, to bear and give it thunder. I scud you copy of an im- portant dispatch from Canby,~ in addition to which Rousseau will start from Decatur for Opelika. If you see Stonemnan feel him and see how he would like to work down the river, say thirty miles, and also make a dash for Opelika, swinging back to us or to Rome for safety. A break of twenty miles from Opelika westward is perfectly practicable and would be a good blow. In the meaum time we can improve our com- munications and get a sure crossing at some point above. Yours, MT. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IN THE FIELD, GA., July 7, 186412 m. Maj. Gen. G. M. DODGE, Commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps: Inclosed I send you copy of dispatcht just received from Major-c-en- eral Sherman. From it you will see that he wants us to keep our troops well in hand for any movement, but at the same time make demonstra~ tions as though we were trying to find a crossing on the Chattahoochee. The enenmy have batteries of from one to four guns opposite all the ferries as near as I can learn, and are strengthening their delPuses, and the banks on the opposite side froum us are lined with sharpslmooters. I wish you to take or cause a regiment of infantry and a section of artillery to go to each of the ferries (Ilowells and Sandtowii). Let a portion of each regiment be deployed as sharpshooters to disturb the enemy, and open on his batteries with your artillery or on any train or column of troops you may see moving. Major-General Stoneman re- ports that the enemy have been nmoving troops and trains down the river for the last twenty-four hours. I send Captain Reese down with this order, who will accompany the regiments and artillery as he is familiar with the roads, & c. Yours, truly, JAS. B. MCPIIERSON, JIlajor- General. Of Jime 27 ~wd rehmtii~g to operations on the Mississippi, & e. See Vol. XLI, See next preeeding Page 81 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 81 HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY o~ THE TENNESSEE, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, Ga., July 7, 1864. Maj. Gen. G. M. DODGE, Commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: In order to relieve a portion of Major-General Stonemans cavalry, so that he can make a scout to the west of Sweet Water Creek, as well as to keep up appearances of trying to find a place to cross the Chattahoochee, you will send one brigade of your command at an early hour to-morrow morning down to the vicinity of Sandtown Ferry, where the Sixty-sixth Illinois is at present, and have them extend their pickets down the river about one mile to a hill jast below Lawyer Edges house. Yours, respectfully, JAS. B. MCPHERSON, Major- General, Commanding. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 7, 1864. Respectfully referred to Brig. Gen. T. W. Sweeny, commanding Second Division, who will move one brigade of his command at day- light to-morrow morning in compliance with these instructions. By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Ga., July 7, 1864. Brig. Geri. T. W. SWEENY, Corn manding Second Dirision: Send one regiment of infantry (sharpshooters) to the river at Sand- town Ferry. Have the infantry engage the rebel skirmishers on the opposite side of the river and gain the river if possible. Send one sec- tion of artillery with the regiment to co-operate with it. Captain Reese, of General McPhersons staff, will accompany them. Make a determined ~ftort as though you were going to cross. Use artillery freely. By order Gf Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: J. XV. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. NASHVILLE, July 7,. 186410 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Your telegram just received. Have had a good deal of trouble in or- galuzing an efficient force. Shall go to 1)ecatur to-morrow, and leave Decatur on the 9th at daylight. L. H. ROUSSEAU, Major- General. 6 R RVOL XXXYIII~ PT Page 82 82 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CJiM?. L. NASHVILLE, July 7, 18641 p. rn. Major-General SHERMAN: There is no railroad bridge at Ten Islands. There is one at Wilson- yule and plenty of supplies along below route; also l)retty good foid just at that bridge. L. II. ROUSSEAU, ]Jlujor- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 7, 1864. General ROUSSEAU, Nashville, Tenn.: My instructions were to cross the Coosa at the Ten Islands or the railroad bridge; these points are well apart and you can best choose between theni after you are well out. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR CHATTAIIOOCHEE, July 7, 18649 p. m. Maj. Gen. L. H. ROUSSEAU, Nashville or Decatur: I have no new instructions or information to convey to you, hut expect you to leave Decatur on the 9th. If Roddey be about Tuscumbia, you might send a small inflintry force down to Waterloo to amuse him by threatening to cross to burm~ the Bear Creek biidge, ci glint miles back from Eastport and abont live miles east of luka. You may give out that you are going to Selma, bnt be sure to go to Opelika, and break up railroad between it and Montgomery. There is but a single road there which unites the Mississippi road with the Alabama roads. I am con- vinced General A. J. Smith Will give full employment to Forrest, and I will keep Johnston fully employed, and Major-General Canby will look out for the Mobile garrison. When you reach the road do your work well; burn the ties in piles, heat the iron in the middle, and when red hot let the men pull the ends so as to 2ive a twist to the rails. If sim- ply bent, the rails may be used, but if they are twisted or wrenched they cannot be used again. In returning you should take the back track, and, if pursued, turn fox me or for Rome or Kingston or Alla- toona. Be sure to take no wagons, but pack some led horses. Travel early and late in the day, but rest at midday and midnight. Spare your horses for the first week, and keep the horses ready for the returu trip. I think the only force in your route is Pillows a or bout Oxford Jacksonville or Gadsden. We are down to the Chattahoochee, and will. soon be across. All is well with us. W. T. ShERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 7, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. B. STEEDMAN, Chattanooga, Tenn.: Yours received. The only point on the road at which the enemy can do any damage is at the Running Water bridge. A good reliable gar Page 83 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83 rison should be kept there, which will fight until re-enforcements can reach them from Chattanooga. It will not do, ho~~e~er, to reduce the garrison of Chattanooga too much to strengthen that point, as an attack there might be a feint while the real attack is made upon Chattanooga. They cannot capture Bridgeport. WM. 1). WHJPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. DALTON, July 7, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN: A force reported to be between 75 and 100 strong was seen this morning at 7 oclock at Thompsons Mill, going north from the Spring Place road. 13 EIINARI) LAIBOLDT, Colonel, Commanding. ADAIRSYILLE, July 7, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN: I have this evening dispersed a party of rebels~ fifty in number, within two miles of this place, capturing 7. Prisoners report that Captain Harvey with sixty men has gone up the railroad between Dalton and Cleveland, with intention of destroying it. One of my detachments captured 22 out in the country in the direction of Fairmount. L. WOLFLEY, Major Third Kentucky. Capt. C. L. WHITE: IIESACA, GA., July 7, 1864. The commanding officer at Dalton last evening reported the enemy be- tween Dalton and Tilton, three miles east of the railroad. I sent Col- onel Wever with 30() men to find him. Colonel Murray, commanding cavalry brigade, sent out 250 men east of the river, in addition to 200 men sent out the night before. At 10 p. m. Colonel Murray heard that the enemy was moving southeast in the direction of Ball Play Post- Office, his troops following him. Last night Colonel Croxton reported from Snake Creek Gap that the enemy, 300 strong, had l)assed north the day before. G. B. ItAUM, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. RESACA Capt. C. IL. WHiTE, GA., July 7, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General: There is a (letachment of the Seventh Illinois two miles south of Dalton. The commanding officer at that place telegraphs that he has no men to relieve theni troops cannot well be spared from Tilton to (10 so. Is it intended that I should go so far north ~ If convenient, please ai~swer to-night. G. B. IRAUIYI, Colonel, Commanding Brigade Page 84 84 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. i{ESACA, July 7, 1864. Capt. C. L. WHITE, Assista)tt Adjutant- General: There is no telegraph office at Tiltoll. The train was captured early in the night, before Colonel Murray sent the 200 cavalry in search of enemy, and I advised him innnediately upon receil)t ot news from Dalton, so Colonel Wever could not have received information from here in time to save the train. There shonid be a small cavalry P)rce at Tilton, Calhoun, and Adairsville. Can a portion of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry be stopped at those points ~ I think the intervals are too great between troops along the line. C. 13. IIAUM, ColoacI, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS U. S. Foncns, Pulaski, July 7, 186-1. Capt. C. T. GARDNER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Decatur: My scouts who have been absent so long have just got in from Corinth, Bethel ,& c. Col. William A. Johnson, commanding at Coi~ii~th, has three regiments aftd one battalion cavalry there. Forrest with his main force is at Tupelo. Itoddey is with him. IIoddey was to take command at Corinth and Johnson was to return up valley near Tuscuinbia. State guard at Savannah had a skirmish with Burt Hays guerrillas. Five companies of Roddeys command at or near Tuscunubia. Our gun-boats were up as high as Waterloo last week. Enemy have flat-boats at Eastport, mouth of Bear Creek. Enemy say that Nashville is the point they in- tend to aim for. Have taken four large droves of cattle out of the country and am continually collecting them. My scouts were captured bytwenty- five of Forrests command nine miles southwest of Lawrenceburg to- d.ay. Have sent out a scout after the enemy. JOHN C. STARKWEATIIEIt, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Copy to Major Polk, assistant adjutant-general, Nashville.) HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 7, 1864. General E. 11. 5. .CANBY, New Orleans: Yonu (Ii spatch of 27th of June* is received, and is very agreeable news. I think Generals Smith and Mower can take care of Forrest. We have fought Johnston steadily back for 100 miles over very diffi- cult ground, fortified at immense labor. I dont think our loss ex- ceeds that of the enemy. It has been one immense skirmish with small battles intersl)ersed. This army remains strong in numbers and spirits, and has been wonderfully supplied. Though repeatedly broken, our railroad and telegraph are in good order to the rear, and I have depots of supplies accumulated at fortified l)oints to my rear. Atlanta is in sight, and is (lefellded by a well handled See Vol. XLI Page 85 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 85 army, and a circle of finished redoubts, yet I shall not pause. The expeditions from Memphis, Yicksburg, and ~Batou 1~ouge are most important and will keel) employed the forces of the enemy that might be mischievous to my rear; also the move on Mobile will be most OJ)- portune, no matter in what strength, even if confined to a feint. On the 9th I start a lightly equipped cavalry force of about 3,000, without wagons, from Decatur, Ala., to Opelika, to break up the single track from Montgomery eastward; the effect of which will be to separate Alabama from Georgia. This force may be compelled to go to Pensa- cola. Please let the commanding officer at Pensacola look out for them about the 20th to 2~th of July. If they make Pensacola they will leave horses there, and come back to Tenliessee by water. Major-U-en- eral Rousseau will command. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 4(3. ~ Sm yrna Camp- Ground, Ga., July 7, 18G4. * * * * * * * II. The corps will endeavor to effect a crossing of the Chattahoochee to-morrow. The point selected for the crossing is near the mouth of Soap Creek. The troops will march at 4 a in., the Third Division in advance. Geucral ~ artillery will move near the head of his column, in order that it may be at hand to cover the crossing. Time traitis of both divisions will move in rear of the corps. One brigade of the Third Division will cross Soap Creek at the paper-factory, about a muile above its mouth, and move down the road toward the bank of the river, keeping out of view from the opposite bank. The brigade com- muander will deploy a strong line of skirmuishers, with large reserves, behind the ridge near the river, a~d prepare a party of about fifty good men to lead the crossing and effect a lodgmnent on time opposite side. The men should be tall and strong, on account of the possible difficulty in fording. It is not necessary to select men from the Twenty-third Corps for their bravery. The brigade commander will keep his men out of sight, and not open fire unless the eliemnys pickets be found on this side of the river, in which case he will drive them away without throwing any more force than necessary for the purpose. The point of crossing for the advance is an 6k fish-dam, constituting a practicable ford for infantry, about half a mile above the muomlth of Soap Creek. The brigade commander will report the completion of the above prepa- tions and await further orders. General Cox will mass the remainder of his division on the west side of Soap Creek and in rear of the ridges bordering the river, and reconnoiter for positiomis for his artillery. General Hascall will mass his division in a conveniemit position in rear of that of General Cox and send forward his artillery to report to time chief of artillery. General Cox will cause his skirmishers to be de- ployed, under cover, ready to advance to the river-bank. The artillery will be ready to move into position, and the troops will clear the road for the pontoon train, which will follow immediately after the inflintry. Every precaution must be taken to avoid any display of force until the order is given to commence operations. Even groups of officers should not be seen by the enemy. This precaution is very important, since much delay may occur in perfecting the arrangememits necessary to success, ~~hereby the enemy, if warned of our intentions, might hav Page 86 86 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. rCHAP, IL. time to bring up re-enforcements. The troops must make as little noise as practicable. Build no fires nor give any other indication of the presence of a large force. it is proposed to lay the pontoon bridge at ishams Ferry, just below the mouth of Soap Creek, and to use the ford above to cross infantry enough to cover the laying of the bridge. The commanding general will be on the ground, and will give further orders, after full arid careful reconnaissance. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assi8tant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIvIsIoN OF THE In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 8, 1864. General THOMAS: I will go over to the right to-day. General Schofield will see as to making a lodgment about the mouth of Soap Creek, and General Gar- rard at IRoswell Factory. I want you to stir up the enemy to-day, arid this afternoon and to-night to send down rafts to break the pontoons. I think the railroad bridge was burned last night. Have you any re- ports to that effect? W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. IIEADQIJARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CITMBERLAND, July 8, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: My people kept the enemy pretty well stirred up last night. Will have them occupy their attention to-day also. I will give orders about the rafts. Have received no reports about the bridge yet. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MIsSIssIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahooehee, July 8, 1864. General THOMAS: I have an Atlanta paper of the 6th; I think its tone is changed and it apologizes for the necessity of civilians quitting the place. By it I see that General Slocum is at Jackson, Miss., and I have no doubt we will soon perceive other effrcts of General Smiths move in Mississippi, and General Canbys against Mobile. If General Howard could get a cable over to that pontoon bridge and haul it into place it would be a constant threat at that point. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 8, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I caused Howard to make a demonstration last night at Paces Ferry, which resulted in the captnre of the pontoomi bridge. It is now secure in our possession. I will direct Howard to make another demonstr Page 87 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 87 tion to-lilorrow morning. I have been on the lines all day, and think I have fonnd a hill on Bairds front from which the rebel rifle-pits can be enfiladed. 1 have also discovered the location of the railroad bridge, and saw three trains of cars pass over. I think the hill in Bairds front commands the bridge also. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 8, 1864. General THOMAS: General Garrard will effect a lodginent to-morrow morning at Ros- well, and General Schofield abont the month of Soap Creek. The moment I hear that General Garrard is snccessfnl I will send one of General McPhersons corps np, bnt he is so far off that it may become necessary to re-enforce him (General Garrard) in the night to-morrow, in which case I will call for a division of General Howard nearest to Roswell, to be relieved by General McPherson as soon as he can get there. At daybreak to-morrow make some display to assist in covering the movements. W. T. SHEI1MA~, Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS hEADQUARTERS, July 8, 1861. General THOMAS: All right. General Dodge is just here; is going up, and will be able to relieve that division to-morrow~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. VININ& S HILL, July 8, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) Captain CASE: South two degrees east from this station and about five miles distant a pontoon train of fifteen or twenty wagons is parked. Rebel wagon trains moving both to right and left at the front, when railroad trains stop. In the large open field, throngh which the river runs, infantry, artillery, and wagons have been moving to the right, down the river, constantly since the fog raised. HOWGATE, Lieutenant and Acting AS~ignal 0/fleer. YININiS HILL, July 8, 1864. General THOMAS: I have had a good chance to count all the pontoons since I reported the fact to yon. They were twenty-two in all. Conld trace their movement some distance by the dust. See some of the enemy sonth ten degrees west some seven miles distant. S. BACTITELL, Lieutenant and Acting & gnal Officer Page 88 88 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IIEADQIJARTERS Founm Amxrv CORPS, Near Vinings Station, Ga., July 8, 186~7.3O p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: in accordance with instructions the IRottenwood Creek bridge was strengthened, and, a regiment marched this a. in. to the vicinity of the mouth of Soap Creek. I accompanied the regiment. The distance from my left to General Schofields right is about five miles in a direct hue and as much as seven by the practicable roads. his preparations for throwing the bridge were nearly in readiness at 3 p. in. to-day when I left. General Hazen reports the rebel i)ontooIl bridge near Paces Ferry now on this side of the river. He will endeavor to secure it to-night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Mc~jor- General. P. S.My scouts, two of whom I left with General Schofield, have just returned; they report that General S[chofield] crossed four regi- ments over the river and secured a lodgmnent on the other side about one hour before sundown; then the enemy fired but two gunsone (lis- charge from each, and these canisterand two musket-shots at them, and that the pontoon bridge would be laid by sundown. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG~, THIRD I)ITh, FOURTH CORPS, July 8, 1864. Capt. M. P. BESTOW, Ass istant Adjutant- General: The pontoon bridge of the enemy was ent loose last night, probably while the firing was goilig omi, believing we were about to cross. It floated to our side the river, and is lodged opposite my second picket station from the right. At night I will be able to attach ropes and make it fast. Very respectfully, W. B. HAZEN, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TILE CUMBERLAND, Near Vin4ngs Station, Ga., July 8, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0.0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Garrard is to effect a lodginent at Ifos- well Factory to-morrow morning, and as soon as he reports himseJf suc- cessful General Sherman is to send a corps of the Army of the Tennes- see to that point. General McPherson is, however, so far away that it may become necessary to re-enforce him before that corps could reach there. You will therefore hold the division of your corps nearest lios- well Factory in readiness to move to that point whenever called on by General Sherman, to return upon the arrival of General McPhersons troops. The major-general commanding directs also that you make a display at daybreak to-morrow morning to cover the movements up th Page 89 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89 river. Tf you could do something to make the rebels think that you intended to make use of the pontoon bridge to cross the river, it would serve as a continual threat to that point. I am, general, very re~pectfally, your obedient servant, WM. 1). WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 8, 1864. General SCHOFiELD, Puffs Station: It is all important I should know as soou as possible the general to- pography on the other side of the river, as to the practicability of the roads in every direction, especially toward Stone Mountain and De- catur. If you can catch a few people who ought to know all about it, send them to me. I will go to the extreme right to-day. General Rousseau will start from Decatur for Opelika to-morrow, and General Stoneman may feign down as far as Campbellton. I think the railroad bridge was burned last night. No other news. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TilE Onio, Ishams Perry, Cliattahoochee, July 8, 18647 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have a division (General Coxs) across the river at this place. It has a good position, and is rapidly intreriching. Colonel Buell has laid one bridge and will l~ave another across to-night. I spent most of the day in reconnoitering and perfecting arrangements to make success sure. All was done so quietly that the enemy was taken en- tirely by surprise, so that when my artillery and infantry opened from the west bank the enemy ned, leaving a piece of artillery, which fell into our hands. My men crossed by the ford and in boats at the same time without losing a single man. The enemy used his artillery upon our officers while reconnoitering during the day, but when we opened upon them they fired but a single shot and fled. I presume they were Browns militia. We have gained the desired point, captured one piece of artillery and nobody hurt. I will give you information concerning roads, & c., beyond the river as soon as possible. Very respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRs. THIRD DIvISIoN, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, July 8, 18641.30 p. in. Col. D. CAMERON Commanding Second Brigade: SIR: You will make all your arrangements to commence crossing the river at 3.30 oclock precisely, having your advance guard ready to enter the water at that time, and the brigade within easy supporting distance, but keeping all carefully hid till the last moment, when th Page 90 90 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. 13. movement must be made with dash and the mcii irnist be encouraged to overcome all obstacles. As soon as a regiment is over it will at once occupy defensible ground and feel down the river toward the point opposite the mouth of the creek, and as 5OO~ as the brigade is over it will boldly push for that point, with a view to occupy the ridge above, and cover the constructiou of the bridge. As a collateral movement, we shall ferry some troops across in the pontoons if possible at the same time. Your officers will be on the lookout for these. If Colonel Case- ment commands the demi-brigade in a(lvance, let him carefully read this dispatch before beginning the movement. The object is first to get a lodgment on the other side of the (Ihattahoochee, and second to push immediately for the point a little below Soap Creek and opposite so as to protect the bridge building, and connect with any troops we may be able to ferry over. Stop for nothing but heavy infantry force and artillery. After the movement is begnn it will probably be easiest to communicate with me along the river-bank to the mouth of the creek. J. P. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVIsION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CoRPS, July 8, 18644.30 p. m. Major.General SCHOFIELD: Cameron is over with all his brigade but one regiment, which is left for reserve. Our skirmishers here have the river-banks, amid we can progress as fast as Colonel Buells pontoons ore rea(ly. J.D. COX, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Chattahoochee River, July 8, 1864. Brigadier-General LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: In conversation with Generals Sherman and McPherson to-day they expressed a desire that a demonstration should be made upon the river by this corps. General Blair, therefore, desires you to change your front, if possible, so as to effect this object. With this view it would be desirable to erect your batteries on the most favorable points to cover the enemys lines and batteries on the eastern bank of the river, and to make such disposition of your troops as will protect them from the fire of the enemy. The general would like this change made, if possible, to-night. This feint is to cover a real crossing on the extreme left of the army. I have the honor to be very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Chattahoochee Ruler, July 8, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army 9f the Tennessee: COLONEL: I have time honor to report that the batteries of my com- mand have almost entirely exhausted their supply of ammunition, par- ticularly in the Fourth Division. I received a dispatch from the chie Page 91 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 91 of ordnance of this corps, who is now at Marietta, saying that there is iio suitable ammunitiou at that depot, and he cannot ascertain where he will be able to obtain any. Under these circumstances, I have the honor to reqnest that the batteries of this command may be supplied with ammunition from some other source. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 8, 1864. General GARRARD, Roswell: I have been to our extreme right and all well. Be active at daylight to-morrow to draw attention as far down the river as possible. The moment I hear you have made a lodgment on the south bank I will send a division np to re-enforce you, and it will be followed by one of McPhcrson~s CO~l)5 from the extreme right. From the nature of tIme gronud I have no doubt you can hold the ground till re-enforced. It is better that no infantry should be seen there till you have made a good lodgmnent. Schofield will cross below you near the mouth of Soap Creek, and his lodgment will be as much a part of yours as possible, for he will be between you and the main enemy. Send word the instant you get a good foothold and the troops will start. Audemiried can guide them. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Year Chattahoochee, July 9, 1864. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I telegraph to you, and Mr. Secretary Stanton answers. IDrop me a word now and then of advice and encouragement. I think I have done well to maintain such an army in such a country, fighting for sixty days, and yet my losses are made up by time natural increase. The assault I made was no mistake; I had to do it. The enemy and our own army and officers had settled down into the conviction that the assault of lines formed no part of my game, and the momemit the enemy was found behind anything like a parapet, why everybody would de- ploy, throw up coumiter-works and take it easy, leaving it to the old man to turn the position. Had time assault been made with one- fourth more vigor, mathematically, I would have put the head of George Thomas whole army right through Jolmnstons deployed lines on the l)est ground for go-ahead, while my entire forces were well in hand on roads converging to mny then ob.ject, Marietta. Had Harker all(l MeCook not been struck down so early the assault wOul(l have succeeded, and then the battle would have all been in our favor on ac- count of our superiority of numbers, position, and initiative. Even as it was, Johnston has been much more cautions since, an(l gives ground more freely. His next fighting line, Smyrna Camup-Ground, he only hehl oiie day. I have got Gemieral Schofield across the Chattahoocimee with two good pontoon bridges, without loss, and momentarily wait the news o Page 92 92 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ICHAP. L my cavalry being across at Roswell Factory, where is the best ford on the whole river, but before going ahead I will add there a goo(I pier or trestle bridge and will at some point intermediate, convenient to roads, pnt down two more pontoon bridges, making five bridges and three fords, before I put the army across the Chattahoochee. I call your attention to the inclosed paper* in reference to the Ros- well factories. They were very valuable, and were burned by my orders. They have been engaged almost exclusively in manufacturing cloth for the Confederate Army, and you will observe they were trans- ferred to the English and French flags for safety, but such nonsense cannot deceive me. They were tainted with treason, aiid such fictitious transfer was an aggravation. I will send all the owners, agents, and employ~s up to Indiana to get rid of them here. I take it a neutral is no better than one of our own citizens, and we would not respect the property of one of our own citizens engaged in supplying a hostile army. Write inc a note occasionally and suggest anything that may occur to you, as I am really in the wilderness down here, but I will fi glint any and all the time on anything like fair terms, and that is the best strategy, but it would not be fair to run up against such parapets as I find here. Your friend, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE, July 9, 1864. (Received S p. in.) Maj. G-en. H. W. HALLEcK, Chief of Staff: General Schofield effebted a lodgmnent across the Chattahoochee near the mouth of Soap Creek last night, and has two good fontoon bridges. He captured the single gun that guarded the passage, but the guard fled. Geiieral Garrard crossed at Roswell Factory, and has a secure lodgment at the shallow ford. General Dodge is moving to that point to take Garrards place, and has orders to build a good bridge there. These crossings will be strongly covered with forts. I will then en- deavor to break the railroad south of Atlanta by an expedition from Decatur under General Rousseau, and another from here. In the mean time will collect supplies and secure better my rear, and then cross over the main army and go ahead. Weather is very hot, but the country is high and healthy. W. T. ShERMAN, Major- General. HPQRS. MILITARY DIvISIoN OF TIW MISSISSiPPI, In the Field, near Chattahooehee River, Jaly 9, 1864. General WEBSTER, Nashville: I have ordered the arrest of the operators at the Confederate mann- flictories at Roswell and Sweet Water, to be sent North. When they reach Nashville have them sent across the Ohio River and turned loose to earn a living where they won~t do us any harm. If any of the principals seem to you dangerous, you may order them imprisoned for a Not found as an inelosure Page 93 CHAP. L.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 93 time. The men were exempt from conscription by reason of their skill, bnt the women were simply laborers that must be removed from this district. W. T. SHE1~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DiVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, I~s the Field, near Chattahoochee, Ga., July 9, 186412.30 a. m. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Army of the Gum berland: GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say that General Schofield has effi~cted a crossing and lodginent, and has two bridges laid. He captured a gun and did not lose a man. The general commanding directs, also, that you will move one divi5ioii at daylight in the morning to Roswell to support and make sure anything General Garrard may eff~et until they can be relieved by General McPhersons trool)s, who will march via Marietta. Let the division move without wagons and march by such roads as not to be seen by thc enemy. I am, general, very respectfully, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. SHERMANS hEADQUARTERS, July 9, 18611.30 a. m. General THOMAS: I think that inasmuch as General Schofield has made a ]o(Igment that Johnston is forced in strategy to attack you or McPherson in the morn- ing, or abandon this bank of the Chattahoochee altogether. He will not attempt to hold both shores after we have secnre(i a crossing, which i~ already done. Indeed, time firing at this moment convinces me that he is withdrawing, and I have so instructed McPhersomm, and I wish you to do all that is possible tn take advantage of the situatiomi. Can- imot Baird opemi with rifled artillery on the bridge, which will stampede the troops, and, it may be, force them to leave somne artillery and stores ~ At daylight let your troops feel the enemy boldly, amid, if not imi force, endeavor to capture a part of them. This is not to interfere with send- ing a division, as before ordered, to l-toswell Factorya position of great importance to us, and to which I have ordered l)odges corps, with strong pioneer parties, to fortify and rebuild the trestle bridge. If Howard could place the enemys l)ontoons in i)osition, it would be a bold stroke~ and I refer to it only as a possibility. W. T. SHEIIMAN, Major- General. hEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 9, 18641.45 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch received. Howard has already been ordered to send a division to Itoswell Factory and to make an attemupt to lay the pon- toon bridges. Orders will be immediately given to l)~C55 the enemny at all points. I will have my heavy battery fire on them in the morning. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General Page 94 94 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP L IIDQRS. iVILLITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 9, 1861. General THOMAS: I hear considerable firing on your front; is it anything mole than the usual pickets~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 9, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: It is the execution of your orders last night to push the enemy. I am trying to fit the hill in front of Baird to plant a battery to fire on their bridges, & c. GEO. H. ThOMAS, Major- General. SIGNAL STATiON, July 9, 186410 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I can see heavy column of the enemys infantry, with artillery and wagons, moving from behind their forts in my front, going toward At- lanta. Will keep watch and inform you if they turn off and go up river. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. SIGNAL HILL, GA., July 9, 18649 a. m. Major-Generals SHERMAN and ThOMAS: heavy column of dust rising eight miles east, moving towal(l Stone Mountain; also column of trool)s and wagons moving toward our left in open field on river bottom near first heavy work. A. S. COLE, Captain and AS1ignal Officer. SIGNAL STATION, July 9, 186410 a. m. General SHERMAN: Column of dust eight miles distant east, moving north rapidly. Should say it was cavalry. A. S. COLE, Captain and & gnal Officer. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field July 9, 186412.45 a. m. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general comm an(lin g directs tb at at (laylight you ino~e a division ~r oswell Factory to support and make sure o Page 95 CflAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 95 everything that may be gained by Garrard. Let it move without wagons and remain until relieved by General McPhersons troops~ which will march via Marietta. This is in execution of the preparatory instructions sent you last evening. General Schofield has efh~cted a crossing and lodgment; has two bridges laid. lie cal)tured a gun and did not lose a man. Yours, very respectfully, WM. 1). WHIPPLE, Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 9, 18641.30 a. m. (Received 4 a. in.) Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corp8: GENERAL: It is the opinion of the major-general comrnan(ling the Military Division of the Mississippi that inasmuch as General Schofield has made a lodgiucut, that Johnston will be forced in strategy to attack us or General McPherson, or withdraw. The major-general command- ing therefore directs that you do all you can to take advantage of his situation by feeling the enemys skirmishers at daylight, if you have any in front of you not across the river, and if you could get [in posi- tiolIl the pontoon bridge of the enemys which has fallen into our hands it would be a good stroke. This is mentione(l as a possibility dnly, and this order is not to interfere with sending a (liViSiOii to Roswell Factory at daybreak in the morning, as directed in i)revious connnnnication. The other corps will be directed to feel strongly the enemys lines at daylight. Yours, very respectfully, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Vinings Station, Gq., July 9, 186411.10 a. m. Major-General STANLEY, First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The enemy has opened his artillery in our front, and he may be making a reconnaissance to discover our weak point. Please keel) a strict lookout, and if you think he is doing so, push a reoiment of inflintry up to Powers Ferry, and bring it back this eveniug (not near enough to the ferry to be expose(l to artillery fire). 13y order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTh ARMY CORPS, Vinings Station, Ga., July 9, 1864. Brigadier-General WIIIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I placed two regiments opposite General l3airds left in snpport of a battery which he will send ul). This is on the ridge where you desired to have it, amid is a good artillery position. I moved for- ward the skirmish line some :300 yards in Pont of that ridge to the edge of a corn-field and in Pill view of the river. Colonel l3rownlow, coin- inanding cavalry, crossed the river this y~ in. ,j tist above I~owcrs Ferry Page 96 96 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. capturing 3 cavalrymen. They reported a post of twelve men audi ~ reserve of fifty men farther back. The river was too high for wading~ so that the men were compelled to swim part of the way. Respectfully, 0. 0. HOWARI), 111 ajor- General. NEAR VININGS STATION, GA., July 9, 18648.30 p. in. Major-General THOMAS: Captain Kirlin, my aide-de-camp, has just returned from Roswell Ferry. General Newton arrive(i there at 2 p. in., and lie has crossed two brigades over the river. General Garrard crossed at 6 a. ill.; had but little opposition. Lost no men. Captured a few. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- Uene al. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 9, 1864. Maj. Geit. J. HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Corps: GENERAL: General Schofield has effected a crossing and lodginent, and has two bridges laid. He captured a general [gun 1 an(i lost not a man. TIe major-general commanding directs that you take advantage of the situation to gain as much as possible by feeling strongly with skirmishers at daylight, and if the enemy is not in force endeavor to capture some of theni. The major-general coinnianding the niilitam y division is of the opinion that Johnston will be forced by the present situation either to attack or withdraw. Yours, very respectfully, WM. 1). WHEPPLE, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 9, 1864. Maj. Gemi. J. HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that to-morrow morning you close the gap which will be left between your corps and Brigadier General Davis division, in consequence of the latter moving to his left. The gap to be closed will probably be equal to the front of a division. General Davis moves to-morrow morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. B. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, July 9, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: It is reported to me that the enemy in my fromit are in the same strength and position as heretofore. Their pickets were re- lieved this morning the same as usual on previous days. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH hOOKER, Major- General Page 97 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97 HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, July 9, 1864. Col. W. W. LOWE, Cartersriile, Ga.: General Thomas says keep the party at work under guard of dis- mounted men.* Why did Major Woifley Capture guerrillas? There is another wa~ of treating them. His energy in pursuit and cal)ture of rebel soldiers is Commendable. W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier- General and Chief of Cavalry. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, nectr Chattahoochee, July 9, 1864. Colonel LOWE, Cartersville: That is very well, but why is the telegraph interrul)te(I beyond Dal- ton ? I now have a division across the Chattahoochee, and exI)ect to have four by night, with two separate bridges and fords. Dont spare the rascals at work to destroy our J7oad. I ~xpprove the severest incas- ure~4.t W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Comm aitding. CARTERSYILLE, July 9, 1864. Col. E. H. MURRAY: General Sherman says thats very well. Take no prisoners if it can be avoided. When it is evident they are railroad destroyers, he will approve the severest measures. Part of our army is across the Chatta- hoochee. W. W, LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. CARTERSYILLE, July 9, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN: I am informed by General Sherman that Colonel Garrard is on the way to the front with a brigade of cavalry. The general directs me to take command of any and all cavalry on the way to the front to enable F mel to clear the country of rebels. I have something in view for Col- omiel Garrard. Will you be kind enough to tell me how I can commu- nicate with him most readily. We captured over 40 of the railroad destroyers yesterday; think I will get some more to-day. 1AT. W. LOWE, Colonel, Comdg. Cavalry Division, Dept. of the Cumberland. JULY 9, 18t4. General SCHOFIELD: General Garrard is across at IRoswell, and T)odge is moving to that point with orders to fortify a t~te-de-pont and to build a good trestle See Lowe to Sheririan. Part II, p. S(36. XIii aiiswer to Lowe, Part LI, p, 866. 7 R RVOL XXXVIII, PT Page 98 [CHAP. L. 98 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. bridge. I want from you a minute deseril)tion of your position and all information as to roads from it to the east of the Stone Moui~tain. I propose to operate some to the south, to accumulate stores, anti then ahead. SIIERMAIN, General. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TIlE OHIO, July 9, 18(5411 a. rn. Major-General SHERMAN, Commandiny Milihu y Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have advanced my troops somewhat this morning to get more room and better position. We now occupy a very high and commanding ridge, rather more than a mile from the river, with flanks resting 111)011 spurs running from the ridge toward the stream. The positioui is very strong, and I think perfectly secine. 1 have put over two of ilascalls brigades in addition to Coxs division, in order to fully occupy the position. I have two brigades still on this side of the river. Nothing appears in our front this n~oruing but a small cavalry force. The ground beyond our position, as far as can be seen, is~ ex- tremely rough and wooded. The hills we occupy are high and the roads difficult. I am having them improved, and new ones cut~ will make them as good as I can. I have not been able to get any valuable information of the roads and country beyond our position in addition to what the maps give. I am making efftrts to find somebody who knows more about it. Very respectfully, ~. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HIIQRS. MILITARY DIVISiON OF TILE Mississippi, Tm the Field, July 9, 1864. General MCPHERSON, Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: We now have a good lodgment on the other bank of the river, Schofield at the mouth of Soap Creek and (A arrard opposite IRoswell. I saw General Dodge to-day en route for iIoswell and cx- plained to him the importance of the place, and he understands it fully. He and Garrard can hold it secure whilst we maneuver a little more on our right and give time to collect stores at Marietta, and for Rousseau to get a good offing. We noticed a good deal of tiutter in the enemnys camps to-day, troops anti wagons mnoving rapidly east and north. Johns- ton sees 1 threatemi Decatur and Stone Mountain, an(l now is a good time for Stoneman to strike south. I want him if possible to secure a point at Camnpbellton or below, and strike the West Point road. I do believe he can do it, for Johnston will spread his force so munch that it will be weak at all 1)Oimlt5. I have told Stoneman that if he secures both banks at CampbeUton, with its ferry-boats, line may call on you for a brigatie to holtl it whilst he strikes the railroad. Of course we do not intend to attack the t~te-de-pomint of the enemy, and unless Johnston supposes I have scattered may force too mnuch lie will not venture to sally, and if he tlocs our l)osition is as strong against him as linis aoainst us, amind I have no apprehensions on that score; therefore, if Stoneman calls for a brigade send it. Keep hanmmnering away all the time, an Page 99 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 99 the moment he lets go of this bank occupy it; but if he holds on, as soon as the time comes we will let him stay on this side and we will go over. With Thomas things are 111 statu quo. Railroad and telegra~)h all right. Yours, ~. T. SHERMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE MISSISSIPPI, Near Chattaliooehee, July .9, 1864. Major-General STONEMAN, Commanding Division of Cavalry: GENERAL: In pursuance of our conversation of this day, I have to request that you proceed with your command to Campbelltou to-morrow night, appearing suddenly before the place and securing if possible the boats there, or forcing the enemy to destroy them. If you can possibly do it get I)ossessioll of those boats and also of the other bank. Ii am very anxious that an attack or demonstration l)e ma(le against the rail- road below Atlanta and will instruct General McPherson to have a bri- gade of infantry ready to come down and hold the river whilst you with yonr cavalry strike the railroad. I am satisfied that the crossing of Schofield and Garrard above will draw in that direction Johnstons chief army, and that what troops are left south of Atlanta will be strung out as far as West Point, where he will keep the chief force. The point where the roa(l would be easiest reached will be, say, half way from Atlanta and West l~oint, but it would not be safe for ~Oll to pass Camp- bellton unless the ferry was well destroyed. The bridge at Franklin is almost too far down, but still it too might be reached by you and either used or destroyed. A ford but little known or used below Camp- bellton and this side of Franklin i)ri(ige will be the best if snch exists, and you may incur ally risk sure of my approval, for whether you make a break of the road or merely cause a diversion you will do good. Dont be absent more than four or five days, and keep inc advised on all possible occasions. Yours, truly, ~ T. SHERMAN, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF TILE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahooehee, July 9, 1864. General GAuRARD, Bosweii: What news ~ Have you crossed ? You know that Schofield is across. W. T. SHERMAN iViajor- General, Commanding. JULY 9, l8($47 a. mu, Major-General SHERMAN: I have the ridge on the south bank of the river. The infantry should come up at once. I see no reason why I cannot hold it, but cannot tell what may occur before long. I am~ very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARI), Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers Page 100 100 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 9, 186110 a. m. Brig. Gen. K. GARRARD, Rosweli: Dispatch received. One division of Thomas moved for Roswell last night by the river road. Two divisions of McPherson, fI)odges corps, are now moving for Roswell via Marietta. Hold list all you have made, and fortify until re-enforced. W. T. SHEItMAN, 116j0r- Geucral. JULY 9, 18~41O a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: GENERAL: At 7 oclock I sent you word that I was over the river and had the ridge. I have now a good position, and hold the lioswell and Atlanta road, which passes over the bridge. The fbrd is a little rough, but not deep. All is quiet in my front; bnt the regiment I sent to take the bridge, eight miles above, failed, apd find some considerable force there. They can keep the enemy from burning the bridge, but cannot ~-et possession of it. Prisoners report Kellys division, Wheelers corps, near that bridge. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 9, 1864. General GARRARD, J4oswell: I have your second dispatch. Dodge was here en Ionte br Roswehl, and will conic to you to-morrow; but in the mean time a division of Thomas should be near there now. When Dodge comes up see hint and consult as to the necessity of taking the upper bridge, or forcing the enemy to destroy it. Dodge will rebuild the bridge at the Factory. All well here. The enem~ has moved troops to the other side, north- ward, but toward Schofielu, I think. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. ROSWELL, July 9, 18649 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have to report the arrival of General Newton with his division, Fourth Corps. All was quiet, and he relieved me about dark. My cavalry pickets are about two miles from the river, on the Atlanta roa(l. There has been but slight oppos~t~on to-day, though my cavalry pickets stand opposite to those of the enemy, and have had some skir- mishes. No sign of large force of the enemys infantry. The ford is very rough and about belly deep. Wagons might be passed over, though it would be better to have the bridge built. Dimensions of old bridge: Length, 642 feet; 6 spans; good stone piers 14 feet from water. K. GARIIARD, Brigadier- General, Gommanding Cavalry Page 101 CHAP. Lj t01 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. SuERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 9, i~S6 19 .40 p. ~ General GARRARD: It is reported from Acworth that the road is threatened by a regi- rneiit of Texans, 500 stroiig. As soon as you are strengthened by in- fantry, increase your force above Roswell at the tipper bridge, to inter- pose 1)etweel] it and the bridge. This is the reason why that bridge was held this morning by the division of Kelly. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. Capt. 13. RINGGOLD, July 9, 1864. Assistant A~jutant- General: Party of rebel cavalry fired on and wounded a number of Michigan Engineers scattered in woods cutting timber between three and four miles south of here. Have sent out to ascertain facts; will telegraph again. These rebels scattered and hid in the woods; an(i without cavalry, of which 1 have none, nothing can be done with them. 1 do not think the rebel force large. 11. K. MTLWARD, Licatena at- Colonel, Commanding. RESACA, July 9, 1864. Capt. S. B. MOE, Assistant Adjutant-General: I think it is of vital importance that a cavalry force be stationed at Snake Creek Gap. Scouting parties of the enemy may dash upon the railroad from that direction at any time unless our scouting parties keep a close watch. If the Fourth Kentucky is removed, I ask that one of Colonel Murrays regiments now here be ordcrcd tliere. G. B. I{AUM, Colonel, Corn manding. CHATTANOOO-A, July 9, 1864. Colonel MURRAY: Send 150 cavalry with all possible dispatch to Tilton, to ol)erate be- tween Tilton and Dalton for the protection of the railroad. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, iVijajor- Geuteral. GENERAL SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 9, 1864. (Received 2 a. in. 10th.) Maj. T. T. ECKERT: Garrards cavalry has effected a lodgment on south side Chattahoo- chee, and is moving. Schofield will cross and (10 the same. The Six- teenth Corps is moving to IIoswell to-day, amId will cross to-morrow. General Howard has captured one of the enemys pontoons above Wil- kins Bridge. Heavy columns seen moving north and east to-day. Skirmishing all day. J. C. VAN DUZER Page 102 [CHAP. L. 1O~ THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. OI~DEus.] HEADQITARTERS TWENTiETH Coups, July 9, 18(54. At daylight to-morrow morning Brigadier-General Ward, command- ing Third Division, will move his command to the left of Geiieral Will- jams division and relieve the troops of General Davis division, of the Fourteenth Corps, and hold the line now occupied by that comman(l. At the same hour Brigadier-General Williams, connnanduig First Di- vision, and Brigadier-General Geary, commanding Second i)ivisn )n, will move their reserve brigades on to the line and occupy the position vacated by General Wards division. If there should be any difticulty in relieving the pickets in the daylight, it can be postponed till night. General XVard will bring up his artillery and put in position on his new line. By command of Major-General Hooker: H. W. PERKINS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE, GA., July 10, 1864G.30 a. in. (Received 2 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, lVashi ngton, P. C.: The ei~emy this morning burned li is bridges across the Chattahoochee, the railroad bridge included. If General Grant has nothing particular for Hunter, Crook, and Averell to (10, and if they be in the Kanawha Valley, as is represented, they could be well employed by going to Abingdon, smashing up things in that quarter, and then going over into North Carolina. W. T. ~I1ERMAN, ]Ilipor- General. SIGNAL hILL, July 10, 18(54. Major-General SHERMAN: Rebels buruing railroad bridge and wagon bridges over Chattahoo. chee River. I IOWGATE. IIDQRS. MILITARy DIVISION OF THE MiSSISSiPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 18(54. General THOMAS: Signal officers report railroad and all other bridges burning. Of course if such be the case, the enemy has gone across, and yet I hear firing of pickets. Report to me the truth as soon as ascertained. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 10, 18(544.45 a. in. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy has left my front and burned the railroad and wagon bridge over the river. I have ordered the skirmishers to feel up and as- certain if they are still on this side. I presume the firing we hear is the pickets exchanging shots across the river. GEG. H. ThOMAS, Major- General Page 103 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 103 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. General THOMAS: Let Howard move up to supporting distance of Schofield to assist him in case the enemy attempts to dislodge him. Detachments of Hooker and Palmer should occupy the redoubts this side, but keel) your wagons and masses out of sight for the present. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQLTARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE CITMnERLAND, July 10, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Hooker and Palmer occupy the enerny~s works in their fronts, and have skirmishers on the river-bank. Their camps have not been moved. Howard has been ordered to move to supporting distance of Schofield. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY I)IYISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee Rirer, July 10, 1864. General THOMAS: Did you visit enemys works on this side the Chattahoochee ~ De- scribe them to me that I may embrace the substance in my (lispatch to-morrow to General Halleck. W T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Corn manding. HEADQUARTERS DEPAR~MENT OF THE (~ITMBERLAND, July 10, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I visited the enemys works Oil this side of the river. The works were in two strono lines similar to those we have had heretofore. At certain distances citadels were built for infantry covering the line about twelve feet, so as to give an enfilading fire on assaulting columns. The front was protected l)y abatis on open fields and by felled timber where the lines ran through woods; this tor thirty or torty yards in their trout. The entire front of the lines was covered by palisades of sharpened timbers. In rear of these lines were two strong works on either side of the bridge, connecte(l with the river by lines of rifle-pits. Their left rested in a marsh on Nickajack Creek, their right on the river. From the works on this side I could see a strong work for artillery and several batteries on the other side, connected by lines of rifle-pits. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 10, 1864. General THOMAS: General Schofield has a good bridge and position, but the road up the hill is narrow, crooked, and steep. I think the road out fro Page 104 104 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Powers Ferry is better and leads straight to Cross Keys, the first point common to the roads out from IRoswell, McPhersons; Phillips, Scho- fields Powers and Paces, yours. General Dodge will make a good bridge at Roswell, General Schofield will make a bridge at Phillips, and you can have your own and McPhersons pontoons at Powers and Paces. General Howard is close up to General Schofield and General Newton will join him as soon as General Dodge has made his bridge and works. I think it would be well for General Howard to secure tim hill at ~ Ferry, just below the crossing, and move the pontoons down as SOOD as General Schofield gets a trestle bridge done. I want General McPherson to feign strong at Turners and cover General Stonemnans movements down the river, and I want you to make strong demonstrations at the railroad bridge, but keep in mind that you are to cross at Powers and Paces. All the roads back to Marietta are good, but the cross-roads are steep and hilly. The road front Powers to Yinings is quite good; crosses Rottenwood at a mill-dani. All preparations should be made in three (lays. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. -HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 10, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The Roswell Factory hands, 400 or 50() in number, have arrived at Marietta. The most of them are women. I can only order theni transportation to Nashville where it seems hard to turn them adrift. What had best be done with them6 GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIvISIoN OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Th the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. General THOMAS: I have ordered General Webster, at Nashville, to dispose of them. They will be sent to Indiana. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, Jloswell: By signal from signal station enemy has burned his bridge here, amid is supposed to be all across the Chattahoochee. Dodge is sup- posed to be near you. Make a strong lodginent on time south bammk and fortify. Let General Newtomu stay there till further orders. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding Page 105 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION~ 105 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISS1SSIPPI, in the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, Marietta: The Eightieth indiana should go to the h~outh of Soap Creek and join its corps. General Schofield will need every man, if, as I suppose, the enemy will attempt to dislodge him. W. T. SIIE1~MAN, Mt~(jor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee 1?ive% July 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, ]llarietta: The officer at Acworth reports that a cavalry force of the enemy is near and that they threaten to burn a bridge between you and Acworth. Now that the main army of the enemy is across the Chattahoochee, Allatoona is safe, and you can safely detach one or more regiments for- ward to secure the road. See that the bridges are all well guarded as far as Acworth. Four companies are at Big Shanty. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, Marietta: The Twenty-third Corps is now across the Chattahoochee at the mouth of Soap Creek, and being exposed will need every regiment in it. It is my smallest army. The signal officer reports the enemys bridge burn- ing, in which case the enemy will, of course, abandon this side altogether. As soon as that is ascertained to be actual truth, I will arrange for per- manent details to guard the road back as far as Allatoona. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, I~ome, Ga.: Johnstons army is now driven across the Chattahoochee. You should now keep detachments well out toward Vans Valley, Villa Rica, and toward Gadsden, getting familiar with the country, getting grain aIld forage, and picking up prisoners, instead of being passive, all should now be most active. W. T. SI-IERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 106 1O(~ THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. FOHAP. L. HEABQITAHTERS I)EPAUTMENT OF THE CuMBERLM4I, Lu the Field, July 10, 18647.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. IIowArni, Commanding Fourth Army Corjps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move the two divisions now with you to within suipporting distance of General Schofield, to assist him in case the enemy attempt to (lislodge him. Let them move to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND I)IVISIoN, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS July10, 1864. Captain MCCLURG, Assistant A~jutant- General, Fourteenth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: I have just returned from the river. The enemy is all across the other side and the bridges burnt. I have two regiments on the bank of the river at the railroad crossing. The enemy skirmished pretty sharply from the Ol)l)osite bank, but it is unnecessary to keep so large a force there; a small J)icket is sufficient. Please inform the gen. eral comiimanding of the above report and ask him for instructions. Very respectfully, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Comm an ding Dirision. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 10, 18644.40 a. m. Major.General HOOKER: GENERAL: The enemy have left General Pahuers front, also burned the railroad an(i wagon bridge over the Chattahoochee. The major- o-eneral commanding (hirects that you P~el up with your skirmishers and see if they have left yonr front. Respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WIJIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. EIDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST I)IYISION CAVALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 10, 1864. Captain LE ROY, Assistunt Adjatant- General, First Division: My scouting party sent to Johnsons Ferry this morning returned to camp; rel)ort no picket at that point. It was withdrawn day before yesterday. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. DORR, Colonel, Commanding. P. S.I sent word by Lieutenant Belfield that the forces of General Schofield now hold the opposite side of the river from my outposts at Powers Ferry and Cochrans Ford. They are fortifying the ridge upon which the rebel battery was planted at Powers Ferry. DORR Page 107 CnAP. L.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNTON. 107 HDQRS. BEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Turner8 Ferry, July 10, 18G412 rn. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: My skirmishers are near the river and the enemy on the opposite side iii rifle-pits, both above and below Turners Ferry. The enemy also have a work on the opposite side within easy cannon-range of the bluffs on the north side, in which they have artillery. I am hav- ing a battery of 3-inch Rodmans anif 20-ponuder Parrotts put in posi- tion, and will try to develop what is in front of us. We have cap- tnred about ~O prisoners, principally from the enemys skirmish line. Colonel Scott, of Leggetts division, reports that the rebels burned their pontoon bridge after the main body crossed, and before their skir- mishers were relieved. Major-General Stoneman is here, and desires to know whether the retreat of the rebels across the Chattahoochee will make any change in the plans proposed for hiuL yesterday. If lie goes on the expedition, lie wishes to start at 8 oclock this evening. From the result of his recon- naissance last night in the vicinity of Carnpbellton, he finds there is no bridge or ford until he reaches Franklin, an(l no enemy on this side of the river. I send this by Captain Gile in or(Ier to get an answer quickly. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. 13. McPIJEIRSON, 1lli~or- General. IIDQRS. I)EPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, ~Tear Chctttahoochee kirer, Ga., July 10, 186410 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Comma u ding, (t~e. GENERAL: Major-General Stoneman has made all his arrangements and started on his expeditiomi at 8 oclock this evening, intending to go as far down as Campbellton to-night. I have sent a brioade of in- fantry down to the vicinity of Sandtown Ferry, with imistructiomis to picket and patrol along the river between the month ~f Nickajack and Sweet Water. Early this niorning my skirmishers moved fbrward amid took up a position in advance of the rebel works and have been skir- mnishing with the enemny across the Chattahoochee all day. Seven regi- ments of infantry were muoved up to the rebel works to support theum (four fromn Greshams division, one from harrows, one from Osterhaus, amid one from Morgan L. Sin iths), the balance being held ready for any emnergency. I am also having batteries constructed; will get the guns in to-ni(~ht and be able to open on the enemy to-morrow morning. I also directed Major-General Blair to send a brigade down as far as Howells Ferry to mnake a demonstration and develop the position of the enemny if possible, and inclose herewith the meport* of Brigadier-General Leggeft, who accompanied the brigade. I have not attempted to cross the Chattahoochee River, which I think can be effected in the vicinity of Sandtown Ferry, as it wonld miecessitate putting down our pontoon bridge, which, from the instructions I have received, I inferred you did Not fouuJ Page 108 108 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHA~P. L. not wish done at present. Major-Ucrieral Stoneman said that he did not care about the infantry covering the river any farther down than the niontli of Sweet Water. If he cannot effect a crossing in the vicin- ity of Campheilton, he will, after making a lively demonstration there to-morrow, push rapidly to-morrow lii ~ht to to Ye1~~ respectfully your r Franklin bridge and try obedient servant JAS. 13. McPhERSON, Major- & ~eneral. IThQRS. MILITARY l)IYJSIoN OF TIlE Mississr~~i In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. Major-General MCPHERSON, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have pretty much made up my mind as to the next move, but would be glad to hear any suggestion from you. I propose that General Stonenan shall attempt to break the road below Atlanta, to accumulate stores at Marietta and increase our guards to the rear, then su(ldenly to shift you to I{osnell, General I)odge in the meantime to get you a goo(l t~te-de-pont and bridge. General Schofield is already at Phillips Ferry, across and fortified. He too will make a good trestle bridge. General Thomas will group his [command] at Powers and Paces Ferries. Rut for the next three days, while these preparations are l)eing in ade, I want you to demonstrate as thoughintending to cross at Turners or below, a tid General Thomas the same at the railroad bridge. When General Stonenman is back, I will give you the word to shift rapidly to lioswell and cross, and in anticipation you can get your wagons back to M9rletta, except such as you need. General Thomas will need youus and his pontoo~us to cross at Powers and Paces. At the right time I ~x ill hi mx e Generals Stoiiema.n and McCook to cover the front, and cross dl the balance of the army and advance its right on or near Peach Tree Creek, and the left (you) swing toward Stone Moun- tain. Johnston ~m dl in found to occupy his redoubts about Atlanta and also Stone Mount tin ~nd i)ecatur. V/c can maneuver so as to compel him to weaken his enter or one of his flanks, when we can act. If he mieglect his right dr center we get On his Augusta road. If lie neglect Atlanta, we take it. If he assuinme the ofiPusive, we cover ouir roads amid base and can make as goo(l misc of Peach Tree Creek as he. If General Stonemnan could break time road, so much the better, but if lie canmiot, I calculate that General Rotisseami will (10 50 within a week, quite as early as we can be at or mmear Cross Keys. The ground opposite still contimnies rough, but that we caummot help. I fluid all the uoads leading back rout Roswell, Phillips and Powers Ferries to Marietta are good, but the cross-roads are hilly and steep. The advantage of this plan over the one crossing to the somuthi is, that we arc till betwecum the eumemy and our base, and now that he has destroyed his owum bridges he cannot get over withouut fighting us. Study your maps and be ready, but in time mucan time stir up the enemy all you cami on that flank and make feints as though designing to cross. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 109 CHAP. L.j 109 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. llDQizs. MiLiTARY l)rvisio~ OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near (Jhattailiooehee, July 10, 1q64. Geucral DODGE, Em route POflt Marietta: The signal ofticci rel)o1t5 the railroa(I all(l other bridge burning. If this be so, the enemy will, of course, quit this sphere, and you should be duly vigilant at Roswell. Get there as quick as possible and fortify on the other side. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, C1ornrnandntil. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WiNG, SiXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Rosweil, July 10, 18611.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: My troops are arriving and crossing. I have been here three hours, ~oughly examilie(i the and, in company with General Newton hive thoi country. I will occupy and fortify to-night a t~te-de-pont half a mile from the river, and extending up and down one mile, covering the entire ford, bridge, an(l roads leading to them. The ford is half a mile or more in extent, very rough, and inipracticable except for troops. To bridge the stream I will have to build over ~5O fret in length. I shall use the old piers, and trestle between. We have a strong picket out three miles covering the forks of road leading to McAfees I3ridge, eight miles up the river, and covering the forks of roa(l that leads to Atlanta. It is too far out to take the command until the river is easily passed by artillery and trains. G. M. D~DGE, ill ajor- General. l{OSWELL, July 10, iS~6i-8 p. m. Major-General ShERMAN: Forces are all over river, hard at work fortifying. have got batteries over also; have built a float bridge. The road bridge is a ~)retty l)ig job, but will work hard on it. No force in my front that we can hear o1 G. M. DODGE, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DiViSiON OF TIlE MiSSISsIPPI, In the Field, near (Jhattahooehee Firer, July 10, 1864. General DODGE, Rosweil: I have been out all day; am just back. Have received General Gar- rards and your dispatches. I design that General McPhersons whole army shall coiue to that flank, and you are to prepare the way. General Newton will stay with you till you feel all safe, when lie will rjoiii his corps now in support of General Schofield, eight miles below you. General Garrard will picket the roads, and I want you to fortit~ a frte- dc-pont and bridge. General McPherson xviii operate to the right and then when all is ready will come rapidly to your hank, therefore make all 1)rcparations to that end. General Schofield has a secure l)lace op- posite the mouth of Soap Creek. Keep mc well advised by courier to Marietta, and telegraph. T. SR ERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding Page 110 [CHAP. L. 110 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTh A R~iY CORPS, Near Uhattahoochee River, Ga., July 10, 1864. Lietit. Col. W. T. CLARK, Asst. Acljt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee: COLONEL: In compliance with orders from your headquarters, I left one brigade and two batteries of artillery at Allatoona. As this bri- gade was small, and in order to carry out the spirit of the order, I left in addition two regiments detailed from other l)rigades. Since that time the Forty-first illinois has reached Allatoona, and has been ordered to remain there. As my command is small, I have the honor to request the Filty-third Illinois Infantry may be relieved from that post. aIl(l Or(lered to report to me for duty in its proper division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General. IIDQIIS. FOURTH DIvIsioN, SEVENTEENTH Au.~ x ConpS, July 10, 1864. Lient. Col. A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General: The enemy left their works last night, and (leserters say they have fallen back across the river. Very respectfully, ~. Q. GRESILXM, Brigadier- General. [Indorsenient.] ITDQRS. DEPARTMENT ANI) ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, July 10, 18646.40 a. m. Respectfully forwarded to Maj or-C eneral Sh ermami. Brigadier-General Gresham has four of his regiments iii the enemys works, and is now getting a battery in position to shell them on the other side of the river. The enemys sharpshooters are still on the south bank. Yours, truly, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864ISo p. m. Maj. Gen. F. P. BLAIR, Jr., Commanding Seventeenth Army Gorps: GENERAL: Major-General Sherman has directed General Stonemnan with his cavalry to move down the river to Camnpbellton, or below ,and, if possible, to get across the river and cut the railroad between Mont- gomnery and Atlanta. To do this will require his whole force. You will, therefore, (lirect General Leggett to semi one of his brigades (lowu immediately to a point in the vicinity of Sandtown Ferry to picket and guard the river at howells, Bakers, Sandtown, and Ada- holts (sometinmes called I)odges) Ferries, taking the place of the cavalry pickets. The infantry will march light, and anything required for the Page 111 OHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 can be sent down to-niorrow. The infimtry are to guard the line of the river down as far as the mouth of Sweet Water Creek until the return of the cavalry expedition. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near C1hattahoochee Rirer, July 10, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. Q. GRESHAM, Commanding Fourth J)irision: GENERAL: I am directed to inform you that one brigade of the Third Division has been sent off to the extreme right to guard fords, & c. Should any attack be made on General Leggett, the major-general corn- manding desires you to hold a portion of your commnaiid in readiness to assist him if necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, [A. J. ALEXANI)ER,] Assistant Adjutant- General. ROSWELL, July 10, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch in regard to the reported force near Acworth has just been received. Communications, except by telegraph to Marietta, come very late; those by telegraph and my courier line in two hours. I will make full investigation to-day in regard to what force the enemy have north of the river. They come over in small parties, scatter, and then concentrate at some point inside our lines, and it is difficult to catch them, but I will take such precautions that no large organized force can get far without my knowledge. All is quiet, and I have directed my pickets south of the river to advance on the Atlanta road, if possi- ble. K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1864. General GARRARD, Jloswell: Signal officer reports the railroad and wagon road bridges burning. If this be so, of course the enemy is on the other side. The truth will be ascertained at once. In the mean time be watchful. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUAYTERS, Roswell, July 10, 1864. Major-Gcneral SHERMAN: To-day I have sent patrols toward Canton, Lorings, Goodbridge, Cumnming, and up the river, and I can learn of no large force of cavalry on this side of the river. There are small parties of five to ten scat- tered through the country, bHt no organized force. As well as I ca Page 112 112 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. judge, the cavalry have fallen back toward Cross Keys. The l)ridge to-day eight miles above was crossed by my troops and is in good order. Shall I send a force to keep it from being destroyed K. GARRAJIT), Brigadier- General. HI~QH8. MILiTARY l)IVI8IoN 01? TILE MISSiSSiPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee, July 10, 1861. General STEEDMAN, Chattanooga: We have now driven Johnstons army across the Chattahoochee, and will continue to give full employment to his main forces, cavalry as well as infantry. I want General John E. Smiths reserve division moved to Cartersville and the Allatoona Pass, and the brigade now at Allatoona forward to Kenesaw Mountain; also the cavalry and all the garrisons to be most active iii gathering in grain and forage and in picking up prisoners. The country behind us now should 1)e cleaned out of all the elements out of which guerrillas and loafers are made up, and we should appropriate and put in store all forage and produce within reach. Whenever the people are in the way ship them to a new country north and west. ~T T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. CHATTANOOGA, July 10, 1864. General J. E. SMITH: You will r~ove with that portion of your command stationed at Kings- ton to Cartersville, and relieve the Second Brigade, Fourth 1)ivision, Seventeenth Army Corps, stationed at Etowah and Allatoona. On being relieved, that brigade wiJl proceed to Kenesaw Mountain. By command of Major-General Steedman: 5. 13. MOE, A~istan t Adjutant- (lenerel. HDQRS. MILiTARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 10, 1864. General STEEBMAN, Chattanooga, Teun.: I dont know that I told you that General Rousseau was to start on the 9th from Decatnr, Ala., for the railroad between Montgomery and Opelika via Oxford. If i~illow be at Oxford he will have to quit. This move will check a repetition of Pillows attempt. Still be watch- ful. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. CHATTANOOGA, July 10, 1864. Brig. Gen. JoHN E. SIXUTH: There will be ~() troops to relieve, you; Colonel Lowe v~rith what cav- alry he has will have to take care of Kingston for the present. JAMES B. STEEI)MAN, Major- General Page 113 CnA1~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 113 HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE ETOWAR, Chattanooga, Tenn., July 10, 1864. Brig. Gem W. I). WHIPPLE Chief of Staff~ and Asst. Adit. Gen., Dept. of the Cumberland: GENERAL: The whole country between this post and the front is in- fested with guerrilla bands, who will an(1 can constaiitly interrupt our line of communications unless they are broken up and driven out of the country. To do this requires a mounted force, and it will be accom- l)lislled in the shortest time and most effectually by men who are ac- quainted with the country and the character and associations of the leaders of these bands. Having learned that there is a probability of the First East Tennessee Cavalry, Colonel Browniow, being mounted, I respectfully ask the major-general commanding the Department of the Cumberlaud to order this regiment, if mounted, to report to me, that I may use it to clear the country of the bands of thieves and iiiarauders now organized and being organized to depredate upon our communications. Browulows regiment has in it men who know the country, every road and bridle path, and understand the political sentiments of the people, and hence would not be so readily imposed upon anti misled by rebel sympathizers as troops who are strangers in the country. Very respectfully, JAMES B. STEEDMAK, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MISS., In. the Field, near Chattahooehee River, No. 32. ) July 10, 1864. 1. The division of General John E. Smith will occupy the Allatoona Pass. with a detachment at Kingston and Cartersville, and the brigade now at the Allatoona Pass will occupy Kenesaw Mountain an(i Big Shanty. The l)istrict of the Etowah will be extended to embrace the Kenesaw Mountain. II. Each of the three armies will have one regiment at Marietta, of the average strength of 33() men for fatigue duty, to unload cars; the coin- manding officers to report for orders to the chief commissary, Colonel Beckwith. Marietta will be the grand depot, but the chief quartermaster may arrange to deliver stores in bulk at Huffs or Vinings Stations, ac- cording to the facilities of the railroad. III. Commissaries and quartermasters must keep ten days supplies on hand at all times, without special orders to that effect, and the army must be ready for quick, prompt movement, as our future plans depend on the enemy. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER, GA., July 11, 18647 a. m. (Received 9.15 a. m. 13th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: The enemy is now all beyond the Chattahoochee, having destroyed all his bridges. We occupy the west bank for thirty miles, and have S R RYOL XXXVIII, PT Page 114 114 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. two heads of columns across; one at the shallow ford at lioswell, and the other at the mouth of Soap Creek (Phillips). At these we are making good pier bridges. Water is shallow, rock bottom, but strong and rapid current. I propose to have another of pontoons lower down, about the mouth of Rottenwood or Island Creeks. The last works abandoned by the enemy were the strongest of all, embracing two detached redoubts amid extending along the river hills for about five miles, having in its whole extent finished abatis and parapet, with glacis obstructed with chevaux-de-frise, and all manner of impediments. But the moment Johnston detected that I had ignored his forts, and had secured two good lodgments above him on the east bank, at Ilos- well Factory and at Phillips, lie drew his forces across and burned all his bridges, viz, one railroad, one trestle, and three pontoons. We now comnmence the real game for Atlanta, and I expect J)rctty sharp prac- tice, bnt I think we have the advantage, and propose to keep it. W. T. SHERMAK, Major. General. WASHINGTON, July 11, 186110.15 a. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Georgia: - Hunter, Crook, and Averell have their hands more than full, and cannot operate as you suggest. H. W. ILALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. MILITARY DIvIsIoN OF TIlE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 11, 18G4. General THoMAs: I have ordered General McPherson to send his pontoons here to- morrow. I will order them to Powers Ferry, and I will want you to effect a lodgmnent there to-morrow night amid next day. There is no enemy of any size to our immediate front, and General Dodge reports the enemys cavalry alone above Peach Tree Creek at Buck Head. lie says he has an Atlanta paper of the 10th, that all the wealtlmy people are leaving, mid that a conucil of war ras held, when it was decided to fight for Atlanta. General Rousseau telegraphs from I)ecatur on the 8th that he sta ed that day and would be on the Montgonmery and Opelika road in eight or iiine days~ 1 think we should as soon as possible secure the opposite bank from Roswell down to Peach Ti-ce Creek. I think the bridge across the Peach Tree near the railroad bridge is still standing. I watched it close toAay and think I saw half a dozen men pass it, but with that exception there was no life visible. There was no danger mu standing in full view imi the redoubt to-day. The signal officer repomts the absence of all camps from the other side to-day. I suppose Johnston will group his army about Atlanta, and wait Thy us to develop our game. I only await news from Stonenman to put General McPherson in motion. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, (iornrn anding Page 115 CrrAP. 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 HDQRS. MILITARY I)JvIsIo~ OF TIlE MISSIssIPPI, In the Field near Chattahoochee, July 11, 1864. General THOMAs: Coloiiel leckwith says the three regiments have reported at Mari- etta. You can order the brigade left there to join its proper COin- mand. The brigade of General McPherson at Kenesaw will be near enough to l)rotect the depot. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT OF THE CUYIBERLAND, Near Vinings Station, Ga., July 11, 1864. (Received 4 p. K Maj. Geii. 0. 0. HOwARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: I have the honor, by direction of the major-general corn- nianding, to acknowledge yonr communication of this day relative to the return of General Newtons division, a~nd in reply to state that orders were given for General Newtons return as soon as relieved by General Dodge, and tIme major-general commanding thinks lie should join you to-day. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. RAMSEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. [JULY 11, 15t4.] Major-General SHERMAN: General Howard will, to-morrow morning, move a brigade down the south bank of the river from Phillips to Powers Fevry, and niove one of the pontoon bride-es from the former point to the latter. The road at Phillips is so narrow on each side that but one wagon can pass at a time, consequently there is use for but one bridge. The trestle bridge will not be completed for several days. GEG. II. THOMAS, ]Jitajor- General. [JULY 11, lSt$4.] (Received 3 a. in. 12th.) Major-General HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The in a i or-general coinmandin g (lirects that when you get the bridge complete you move your whole corps to the south bank of the river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. JIDQRS. THIRD DIvIsIoN, FOURTH AR1~IY CORPS, In the Yield, Ga., July 11, 1864. Lient. Col. J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant-Adjutant General: COLONEL: Moore, a scout whom I sent out on the 7th instant, has just returne(l, bringing the following information lie left General Johnstons headquarters at 3 p. in. yesterday. General Johnstons headquarters are at a small white house three mile Page 116 116 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L this side of Atlanta, on what is called the Atlanta and Marietta road. The railroad passes iiear it. General Stewarts headquarters are near General Johnstons. Stewarts corps, late Polks, is still on the right of Johnstons army, with the right resting on the railroad, about two miles beyond Peach Tree Creek, going from here toward Atlanta. Moore says he heard the officers saying they were going to intreuch a position with their right resting on the railroad and their left at Cedar Bluffs. He says he was told that the principal part of the rebel wagon train had been moved beyond Atlanta toward Augusta; that a good deal of ma~ ehinery had been moved from Atlanta in the same direction, and that the refugees, in great numbers, taking the negroes, & c., are also going in the same direction. He heard officers say that they did not expect any general engagement would take place in the vicinity of Atlanta without they received re-enforcements. He heard a camp rumor that a part of Kirby Smiths force was on the way by rail to join Jolmstons army, but he could not get this from any reliable source. lie says the rumor was that this re-enforcement would be there to-day. Moore says his impres- sion is that the left of the rebel army rests at present omi the river. Moore says he heard yesterday a report in the rebel camp that two of their corps are at Harpers Ferry. Earlys c~rp~ is one, an(l he does not remember the other corps. lie also heard a rel)ort that there had been a fight between Forrest and General Washburn. Moore says he saw Colonel Sherman at a distance, but did not have an opportunity to speak to him. He says Colonel Sherman has been forwarded to Anderson [ville]. In returning Moore came back by the way of Buck Head, entering our lines through General Dodges command, lie reported there early this morning. Moore says Wheelers rebel cavalry pickets are two miles fromu General Dodges outposts. Wheelers cavalry lies between there amid Buck Head. Moore says the Georgia State Troops, under Gemmeral G. W. Smith, are on the left, under the general direction of General Hood. Respectfully, your obedient servant, TH. J. WOOD, Brigadier- General of Yolunteers, Commanding. P. S.Moore says he saw Mrs. Johnston and other ladies at General Johnstons headquarters yesterday. They seem to be having a jolhifica- tiomi. W. Moore brings rebel papers to yesterday. HEADQUARTERS DUPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Vinings station, Ga., July 11, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCooK, Commanding First Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The major-gemieral comnmanding directs that you take a sufficient force of your counnand, l)roceed to Dallas, and arrest the fol- lowing-named men, bring them to these headquarters, and turn them over to the provost-marshal-general of the Department of the Cumber- land: Green B. Turner, who lives two miles and a half from Dallas; Nick Allen, who lives three miles west of 1)allas; Stephen Allen, who lives three miles west of Dallas; Lent Andersomm, who lives in i)allas; John Hicks, who lives five miles west of Dallas; Aleck Bullock, who lives three miles west of Dallas. Be sure to arrest Lein. Anderson, the Allens, and Aleck Bullock. After you have made these arrests inform the me Page 117 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 117 arrested that they are arrested for their past deeds under the Coiffed- eracy, for what they have done since our army was at Dallas, and be- cause they are disturbers of the peace of the community in which they live. Thform the people of Dallas of the same, and, moreover, that so loi~g as they conduct themselves properly they will not be distnrbed, bnt if any of them choose to coiiduct themselves as these men have dofle they will be arrested in the same manner and banished from the United States as these men will be. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In~ Field, July 11, 18647.45 p. m. Maj. Geit. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding, ~e. GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith report just received from Major-General Dodge. Everything along this part of the front has been very quiet to-day. I am haviii g batteries erected on this side of the river at Tnrners Ferry, and will have sixteen gnns in position to- niorrow morning to open on the enemys redoubt on the opposite side, distant about 900 yards. Deserters state that the redonbt has six guns, two 20-pounder Parrotts and four 10-pounders. One brigade of Leg- getts division is near Sandtown Ferry picketing the river, and I have one brigade of Morgan L. Smiths division near Widow Mitchells and the other brigade at the intersection of the SandtowTn and Alabama roads. rfomorrow morning De Gress will take his battery of 20-pounder Parrotts and go down to Saudtown Ferry and try to knock a small bat- ter.y of the enemys on the south side of the river to pieces. General Stoneman got ott last night. No iiews from him to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. MCPHERSON, Major- General. P. 5.Your dispatch recelve(I. The pontoon train will rel)ort accord- imilAy. J. B. MuP. A iso iii close (01 timmmii i cati oii from General Leggett, J~~ st receiVe(1. t1~C1OSI11C ~O. I J HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Roswell, Ga., July 11, 1864. Maj. Gen. 4. B. MCPHERSON, Commanding Department and Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I arrived here yesterday at noon, tile commamA crossed and the troops were all in position before night, and now have intrench- nients up. 1 have over a mile of ford and bridges to cover, an(I cannot make a t~te-de-pont very far out that will cover it. I have taken and extended the line selected by General Newton. Our trains are all on the north side of the river. The ford is very rough, but shallow, arid the bridge we will have to build is 650 feet long and 14 feet high. I put a foot bridge across last night, so that troops cati pass. it is xTerydiffi Page 118 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 118 WHAP. L. cult for them to wade, the water is swift and bottom full of holes. The enemys pickets are near Buck Head, and men out of Atlanta to-day say that there is no infantry after you get fbur mileS this side of Atlanta, and that Stewart is Oh their right. Johnstons headquarters are at a little house three miles this side of Atlanta, ou the railroad. Atlanta papers of the 10th instant say that a council of war was held that day, and that it is rumored that Johnston would make a fight for the city. This would tend to show that it is not their intention. All trains be- longing to the army have gone toward Augusta, and everybody fleeing. Eight miles up the river from here is a good bridge that is not destroyed. I will work hard on the bridge here and finish it as soon as possible. It is a big job as you will l)elceive from the length. Everything was burned up here that we could usehouses mills, lumber, and all. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Jliajor- Gene. at, Commanding. [Incloure No. 2.] HDQRS. ThIRD DIVISION, SEVENTEENTH ARMY Coups, Chattahooehee Firer, July 11, 1864. Lient. Col. A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: In obedience to orders from the major-general commanding the army corps, I took one brigade of infantry and a section of artillery and went to Howells Ferry, and made considerable display, opening artillery fire from two points, and a brisk tire from our sharpshooters, but failed to get any response, except from the rebel sharpshooters in rifle-pits close to the river. These sharpshooters seem to be few in number, and I am unable to form an opinion as to whether they are supportedbyareserveinthewoodsintherear,andlcannot ascertain without means to attempt a crossing; hence have ~eturued. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. D. LEGGETT, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochtee Firer, July 11, 1864. General DODGE, Roswell, Ga.: I know you have a big job, but that is nothing new for you. Tell General Newton that his corps is now up near General Schofields cross- in g, and that all is quiet thereabouts. He might send down and move his camp to the proximity of his corps; but I think IRoswell and Shal- low Ford so important that I prefer him to be near you, until you are well fortified. If he needs rations tell him to get his wagons up, and I think you will be able to spare him day after to-morrow. I know the bridge at Roswell is important and you may destroy all Georgia to make it good and strong. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 119 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119 tIE A17)QITARTERS LEFT Wi N( ~, S [XTEETNTH ARMY CORPS, Xoswell, Ju!y 11, 1864. Th~j. Geit. W T. SHERMAN, Corn mwnding: All quiet this morning. I had no fear about being able to build the l)ri(10e but thought you might expect it finished sooner than ~)ossible, as it w~as twice as long as II expected to find it, and twice as long as the river is wide down at Sandtown. I have over 1,000 men at work on it day and night, and it is already well under way. I have planking for floor now on the ground, and not one minute shall be lost in pushing it forward. Every man that can work on it shall be kept at it. Reports here show no force of the enemys infantry this side of Peach Tree. Wheelers cavalry advauce is at Buck Head, with all of his force south of there. Last night Joe Johnstons headquarters were three miles this side of Atlanta on the railroad. Atlanta papers of the 10th instant say that at a council of war held that day it was decided to fight for Atlanta. All trains of the enemy are reported by citizens and desert- ers to have gone toward Augusta, and a general refugecing is going on among the wealthy citizens. C. M. 1)ODGE, Major- General. IDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the F~el(l, near Citattahoocitee River, Jul~, 11, 18G#, General DODGE, Roszieii: Your dispatch is received. Send me any Atlanta papers you get. I have no doubt you will have the bridge done in time. As soon as you can spare General Newton he should be relieved to join his corps where his camp equipage is. I rode along the river-bank to-day, and th~ force of the enemy seemed to be merely sharpshooters in small num- bers ill their forts. All well with us. ~r T. ShERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July Ii, 1864. General GARRARD, BosweU: Certainly, by all means save the bridge above Roswell, and get me iiiformnation of the lay of the country from it toward Stone Mountain. ~ T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. ROSWELL, July 11, 18648 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have nothing new to report. All is quiet to-day. Parties have been in every direction and no evidence of any considerable force on this 5i(ic of the rivGr. Very respeetfally, K. GAIUtARD, Brigadier- General Page 120 120 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHIEL HIVER, July 11, 18647 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps: Major-General Stoneman having gone on an exi)editioli with his cav- alry, thus rendering it necessary to picket the river between the mouth of the Nickajack and Sweet Water with infantry, YOU will send one of your divisions to some point on the Sandtown road near Widow Mitch- eIl~s with instructions to the commanding officer to station one brigade at the intersection of the Sandtown and Howells Ferry roads, some- times called the Alabama Cross-Roads. A portion of General Blairs command is picketing the river, and your division will be in the nature of a reserve to cover our trains, & c., until the cavalry returns. In- struct the officer in command of the brigade to be stationed at the cross- roads to communicate with Blairs troops near Sandtown Ferry. Yours, truly, JAS. B. McPllEl~SON, ]Ihyor- General. IIBQRS. MILITARY IDIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Chattahooehee, July ii, 1864. Col. W; W. WRIGHT, & tperintendent Railroad Construction, ]Ifarietta: will want an accunmlation of stores in Allatoona Pass, and suggest lay down a side track between the bridge and Allatoona depot about where the old foundry was. The quartermaster will erect teni- porary sheds. W. T. SHEItMAN, Major- General, Commandinq. IIDQRS. MILITARY 1)JYISION OF THE MISSIssIPPI, in the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 11, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN, Gommanding District of the iEtowah: GENERAL: The importance of your command to the success of my operations is, I know, already al)preciated by you; but when I suggest any additional work or precaution, I beg you to consider it as resulting from my supposed large exl)erience in the military art. In the first place, I fear that our infantry officers 5UPPO5C if cavalry comes about, they are excused from doing anything but to defend their own posts. This is not so. Infantry can always whip cavalry, and in a wooded and mountainous country can actually thwart it, and even at times capture it. Of course, as a general rule, a footman cannot catch a horseman on a fair open road or country, but nothing is more awkward in a wooded and mountainous country than a command of cavalry forced to ~o through narrow defiles, across streams at particular fords or bridges, or up and down certain valleys which cau be seen from the mountain tops and ambushed. I have not yet seen in this war a cavalry command of a thousand that was not afraid of the sight of a dozen in- fantry bayonets, for the reason that the cavalry, to be effective, has to have a road or smooth field; whereas the infantry~man steps into time bushes and is safe, or can block a road in five minutes and la~gli at the man on horseback Page 121 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 121 The moral I wish to inculcate by these simple illustrations is ,by knowing the conntry and thinking ahead, an infantry garrison can act against cavalry. Therefore, it is expected of the infantry guarding our road that they are not to sit down and let cavalry prance all around them, but that they ambush their roads, anti~ipate their passage at mountain passes and creek crossings, or even pursue them and catch them jammed in narrow roads or at bridges. Thus at Dalton a lookout should be kept all along Taylors Ridge and give notice of horsemen in the far off valleys, and then they should be waylaid. Rewards should be offered and paid to faithful citizens and negroes who give notice of the presence of patties of the enemy, but they should always be waylaid and pursued. Another matter I will draw your attention to: officers and men natu- rally slip into houses and establish headquarters, offices, & c., and are about as useless as if posted in Canada. Make a positive order that each garrison shall build anew a good stockade with earth-work, abatis, & c., not too strong, but to serve as a stronghold and rallying point, to hold a dash of cavalry in check, and more especially to allow a part of the garrison to hold the post while the greater portion goes forth to battle with the enemy. A fixed garrison is harmless and useless. Its only value is in its power of offense. I think you had better embody some of these ideas, and such others as may suggest themselves to you, in a general order, and have it printed on pasteboard and hung up at every post, and then make your inspectors enforce it. We are now in full possession of the country down to the Chattahoo- chee, and have two good crossingsone at Roswell, and the other at the mouth of Soap Creek, known as Phillips, and I only await a few developments to go ahead. General Vaudever telegraphs from Rome that Pillows force has gone toward Meridian. If another attempt is made from that quarter, it should be counteracted by moving behind it from Rome and Gunters Landings W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. K1N~sTON, July 11, 1864. Major General SHERMAN: Received orders to move yesterday to Cartersville and Allatoona with a portion of my command at this place. It can not be the intention to leave this point unprotected, and I am not advised that there ai e any troops ordered here to relieve me. There are two important bridges across the Etowah and several fords. Do you want the bridges (Ic- stroyed ~ JNO. E. SMITH, llriqadier- General. SHE MANS HEADQUARTERS, July 11,1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN E. SMITH: For the present leave two regiments at Kingston. Take up the plank- ing, but do not disturb the franie work of the bridges. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 122 1122 VilE ATLANTA CAMPAiGN. [CHAr. L IThORs. MILITARY l)IYISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Tn the Field, Chattahoochee Rirer, July ii, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER, Ailatoona: General J. E. Smiths division from Kingston will relieve you, and you will receive orders to move forward and occupy Kenesaw Mountain. Be prepared for the change. W. T. SIIERiV[AX, Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS IIEAD& IARTERS, July 11, 1864. General J. E. SMITH: in the next stage of progress you will move forward to Cartersyille and the Allatoona Pass; orders are already issued. I give you this notice. I want a depot of supplies kept ill Allatoona., and a side track to be made near where the old foundry was. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. CHATTANOOGA, TENN., July Ii, 1864. (Received ibM) p. in.) Maj. T.T.EcKERT: Am here crossing to rebuild the line and add another wire between this and Atlanta. Line not working south in consequence of storm, though it has worked well all day. Rebels last night withdrew entirely from west bank Chattahoochee, and burned bridge. Said that Johns- ton is moving toward Stone Mountain, and will not O~QO5C advance on Atlanta. Garrard and General Schofield across Chattahoochee, and intrenched to protect crossing of rest of army, which will cross on the 12th or Lith. J. C. VAN 1)UZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Isharns Ferry, Ga., No. 50. ) July 11, 1864. I. Brigadier-General Hascall, commanding Second Division ,Twenty- third Army Corps, will move his entire command across the river and put three brigades in line, keeping one in reserve on the right, in the position now occupied and intrenched. General Cox will correspondingly contract his line from the right, strengthen it if necessary, and put at least one brigade in reserve. II. Supply trains will habitually be kept on the west bank of the river until the corps moves from its present position. They will cross the river to make issues, and return without unnecessary delay. A guard will be furnished from troops on duty at army headquarters. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Schofield. J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 123 CHAP. L.1 123 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. JIDQRS. MILITARY 1)lvJslo~ OF THE ~ in I/ic Field, near Chattahoochee Rirer, July 12, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Near Pc tersburg, Va.: DEAR GENERAL: I have written you but once since the opening of the campaign, but I report by telegraph to Halleck daily, and he fur- nishes you copy. My progress was slower than I calculated, from two chief causes, an uninterrupted rain from June 2 to about the 22d, and the 47~eculiar sul)-mountainous character of the country from the Etowah to the Chattahoochee. But we have overcome all opposition and whipped Jolmston in every tight where we were on anything like fair terms, and I think the army feels that way, that we can whip the enemy in any- thing like a fair fight, but he has uniformly taken shelter behind paral- lels of strong pi~ofile made in advance for him by negroes and militia. I regarded an assault on the 27th of June necessary for two good reasons: first, because the enemy as well as my own army had settled down into the belief that flanking alone was my game; and second, that on that day and ground, had the assault succeeded, I could have broken ~ center and pushed his army back in confusion, and with great loss to his bridges over the Chattahoochee. We lost nothing in morale by the assault, for I followed it up on the extreme right and compelled him to quit the very strong lines of Kenesaw, Smyrna Camp, and the Chattahoochee in quick succession. My railroad and telegraph are now up and we are rapidly aceniun- lating stores in Marietta and Allatoona that will make us less timid about the roads to our rear. We have been wonderfully supplied in provisions and ammunition; not a day has a regiment been without bread and essentials. For ge has been the hardest, and we have cleaned the country in a breadth of thirty miles of grain and grass. Now the corn is getting a size which makes a good fodder, and the railroad has brought us grain to the ex- tent of four pounds per aninmal per day. I have now fulfilled the first pArt of the grand plan. Our lines are up to the Chattahoochee, and the enemy is beyond. Morgan failed in his Kentucky raid, and we have kept Forrest employed in Mississippi. The defeat of Sturgis was unfortunate; still, he kept Forrest away from us; and now A. J. Smith is out with a force amply sufficient to whip him. I hear of Slocum at Jackson, Miss., and Canby telegraphs mne of a trip from Baton Rouge and another against Mobile ,so that I am well satisfied that all my people are well employed. At this muoment I have Stonemnan down the Chattahoochee, with orders, if possible, to cross and strike the West Point road; and Rousseau left Decatur the 8th instant, with about 3,000 cavalry and no wagons, with orders to make a bold push for the railroad between Montgomery and West Point and break it good; to return to the Tennessee, if possible, but if headed off to make for Pensacola. The moment I got Johnston to the Chatta- hoochee I sent Schofield to a ford above, and he effected a crossing without the loss of a man, and has two pontoon bridges. About the same time, Garrards cavalry crossed, still above, at Roswell Factory, and litas been relieved by Dodges corps, so that I now cover the Chatta- hoochee and have two good crossings well secured; by to-night I will have a third. As soon as I hear from Stonenman I will shift all of McPherson to Ros well and cross Thomas about three miles above the railroad bridge and move against Atlanta, my left well to the east, to get possession of the Augusta road about Decatur or Stone Mountain. I think all will be ready in three days. I will have nearly 100,000 men Page 124 124 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. I feel certain we have killed and crippled for Johnston as many as we have sent to the rear. Have sent back about 6,000 or 7,000 prison- ers, taken 11 guns of Johnston, and about 10 in Rome. have de- stroyed immense iron, cotton, and wool mills, and have possession of all the inter country. My operations have l)eell rather cautious than bold, bnt on the whole I trust are satisfactory to you. All of Polks corps is still here; also hlardees and Hoods, and the Georgia militia, under G. W. Smith. Let us persevere and trust to the fortunes of war, leaving statesmen to work out the solution. As ever, your friend, W. T. SHERMAN. NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE RIvER, GA., July 12, 18648 .30 p. m. (Received 9.20 p. m. 13th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: Mark your maps Phillips Ferry at mouth of Soap Creek; Powers Ferry just above the mouth of the Rottenwood and Island Creeks ;Paces Ferry one mile below the mouth of Island Creek. General Dodges corps is across at Roswell; General Schofields corps at Phillips; Gen- eral Howards corps at Powers. All well. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Iiliajor- General, Commanding. SHERMANS hEADQUARTERS, July 12, 1864. Major-General THoMAS: McPhersons pontoon train is on its way here. Where do you want it~ W. T. SHERMAN, )lfajor- General. ThOMAS HEADQUARTERS, July 12, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Please have the pontoon traimi sent to Powers Ferry. C Ri. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARy DIvISION OF THE MISSISSWPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, In ly 12, 1861. General THOMAS: Ilas anything been done with the pontoon bridge of the enemy at Paces? We should either get full possession of it or (lestroy it alto- getlier, for when we cross to the other side, leaving a mere guard of cavalry on this, the bridge might be most mischievous to mis. Please ordeu that it be got out at night, or the planking thrown off and boats scuttled. W. T. SHERMAN, ]liliajor- General, Corn m anding Page 125 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 125 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 12, 18G4. Major-General ShERMAN: My intention is to use the enemys pontoon bridge in connection with ours. If it is not used in that way I will have it destroyed. GEO. II. THOMAS, Major- General, U. ~. Volunteers. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 12, 1861. General THOMAS: General McPhersons pontoons will make two good bridges at Pow- ers. You have enongh for two at Paces. if we cm save the rebel bridge it will do for one, and save us enough boats for a spare one, which I want very much, so that in leaving General Stoneinan to watch at Turners lie will have a bridge and can threaten to Cross at Turners and below when we are engaged over about the neighborhood of l)e- catur. Try and manage to accomplish this result. General McPher- son will have a good, permanent bridge at Roswell, and General Scho- field a pier or trestle bridge at Phillips, so that you will have control of all the pontoons. I estimate we have enough for four bridges, and if we can secure that left by the rebels it will exactly fill our wants. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jfajor- General, Commanding. 1-IDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MisSiSSippi, in the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 12, 186-1. General THOMAS: I have ordered the Fifteenth CQrps to move this afternoon for Roswell, leaving General Blairs corps to watch Turners Ferry and Sandtown till General Stoneman returns. Better notify Hooker, as it leaves a gap, but the gap is well covered by the river. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF ThE CUMBERLAND, July 12, 1861. Major-General SHERMAN: General howard reports two (livisions of his command across the river and in position near Abernathys house. Do von wish Palmer to cross at Paces Ferry to-morrow or next day? I do not think Buell can reach there in time for him to cross to-morrow. GEG. Ii. ThOMAS, Major- General, U. AS~. Volunteers, Commanding. SHERMANS hEADQUARTERS, July 12, 1861. General THOi~IAS: Where is Abernathys house, in reference to Schofields position? W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 126 126 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 12, 18G4. Major-General SHERMAN: Abernathys house is about one-fourth of a mile in front of Schofields right center; Howards troops overlap Schofields right. I have directed Howard to send a division down the river to Paces Ferry at daylight Thursday morning to cover the laying of the bridges at that place. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 12, 1861. General THOMAS: I understand that Howard has a pontoon bridge at Powers Ferry~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBFRLAND, July 12, 1504. Major-General SHERMAN: The road from Powers Ferry to Abernathys honse is 5ai(l to be good. Howard has one bridge at Powers Ferry, but I want to replace that by McPhersons bridge, as it will be nearer to his position, and Buells at Paces Ferry will be nearer to mine. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. HDQRS. MILITARV DivISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 12, 1864. General THOMAS: You need not attempt the crossing at Paces till I hear further of General Stoneman. The day after to-morrow will be soon enough. I heard of twenty ~nen on foot armed, about four miles from Big Shanty, who questioned a negro as to the force at Marietta. Yet it is well that Colonel Gleason sent the regiment, as it will make it certain. The Fifteenth Corps will pass Marietta in the night foi Roswell, and it seems impossible that any force should be near the place described. The brigade from Allatoona for Kenesaw should also be in position by to- morrow. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Finings Station, Ga., July 12, 1861. Col. G. P. BUELL, Comdg. Fifty-eighth Regiment Indiana Vols. (Pontoniers): COLONEL: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as Captain Kossak has laid a bridge at Powers Ferry, that you take up your bridge, now at that place, and throw it across the river at Pace Page 127 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE FTC. UNION. 127 Ferry below. You will also turn over the work of building the trestle I)ridge at Phillips entirely to the Army of the Ohio, or rather to Cap- tain Twining, who commands the engineers of the Twenty-third Corps, and as soon as it is completed yon will move yonr bridge, now a that place, and throw it across the river near the other at Paces Ferry. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHTPPLE, Citief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Vinings Station, Ga., July 12, 18G4. M~j. Gen. 0. 0. HoWARD, (Received 1 ~. ni.) Comm andiug Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL : General Sherman has ordered Captain Kossak to go with his pontoon to the saw-mill at Rottenwood, which is only a mile back of Powers Ferry. You will nse this bridge instead of Colonel Buells. If Colonel Buell has a bridge down at Powers Ferry, relieve it 50 Soon as the trestle is completed at Phillips. Order Colonel Buell to bridge Paces. By command of Major-General Thomas: SOUTIJAIID HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field Jul Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, , y 12, 1864. Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding the department desires that you will make an explanation upon the following subject, thinking there must have been some mistake or misunderstanding: Last even- ing General Thomas directed General Brannan to cause artillery to be placed iii the redoubts abandoned by the enemy near the railroad bridge over the Chattahoochee, for the purpose of firing upon the enemys works upon the opposite side of the river. General Branuan coin mum- catCd the order to Major Houghtahing, your chief of artillery, but for some reason the artillery was not placed in the position ordered, or anywhere else. The reason alleged by Major Iloughtaling is that you counterman(ied the order of the in~jor-general cominandinr saying that if Genera.l Thomas had any order of the kind to communicate he could do so in writing. There was perhaps some misunderstanding. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Missms~ippi, , near Chattahooehee J In the Field , uly 12, 18642 a. m. Major-General MCPHERSON, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have received your dispatches of last night. You may put in motion at once the Fifteenth Corps and trains for lloswell, leav- ing General J3laim~ witli suci artillery and wagons as he may need t Page 128 128 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. await the return of General Storieman ,and to make in the mean time the necessary demonstrations about Sandtown, Howells, and Turners. The enemy having destroyed his bridges, cannot come back on General Bla*, and therefore he can strip light so as to follow you as little en- cuinbereci as possible when General Stoneman (loes get back or is heard from. instruct General l3lair fully on these points, and let huiu report to me direct while thus detached. Let your troops move in the cool of the evening and moonlight and in the morning, sparing men and am- mals as umeli as 1)Ossible. You will then proceed in person to itoswell, and take control of matters on that flank, giving the necessary orders to your own trool)s and General Garrards cavalry. I want everything (lone that is prudent and necessary at Roswell to make it a kind of secon(lary base thy operations against Atlanta, and the roads east toward Augusta and Macon. As you know, the bridges are under progress and the telegraph will be there as soon as you. The ford there, though rough, is always practicable in case of accident to our- selves or the bridges, and constitutes one of the reasons for its use as a l)oint of departure, and the roads to all(l frommi lRoswell are all old and much used. The country thereabouts is also represented as abounding in grass, grain, and corn-fields, all of which will come into use. Your wagons and artillery should move by Marietta and fill up with provis- ions, forage, and amnmnition, and, I think, that also is the best road for the troops, although a few miles could be saved by cutting across by Smyrna Camp-Ground. If convenient, you might ride by the Tur- ners Ferry road along the enemys recent works by General Thomas and my headquarters to confer and to compare maps. I am, with respect, yours, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE Mississippi, in the Field, near Chattahoochee River, Jniy 12, 1864. General DODGE, Boswell via Marietta: The Fifteenth Corps will start this p. in. for Roswell via Marietta. General McPherson will follow in person to-morrow; the Seventeenth Corps will remain for a few days to await the return of General Stone- man. All quiet everywhere. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTh ARMY Coi~ps, Jlosweli, Ga., July 12, 1861. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Divi8ion of the Mississippi: I send herewith a rough map* of the country south of here, taking in nearly all tIme roads. I got it up from surveys and from information me- ceived from different citizens, and I think generallyit is as correct as such maps can be made. The roads, citizens living upon them, & c., are pretty reliable. You will see it is different from any of our maps. I pushed my mounted infantry down five miles to-day to the crossing of Nancys Creek, where we found the enemys cavalry in force, and they followed Not found Page 129 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 us back. One-half mile above the bridge at this place is a ferry, and will be a good place to put in a pontoon bridge should you desire. The river is about 300 feet wide. I will have the bridge at this place finished to-morrow. All the beBts are up to-night, stringers on, and planked one-third the distance across. When done it will take safely over any number of troops and their trains. All quiet here. IRiver slowly rising. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DOIXIE, ]lftijor- ~9encral, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING SIXTEENTH ARMY Coups, Lieut. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Ga., July 12, 1864. A8st. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee: COLONEL: There is nothing new here; all quiet. We are progressing on the bridge, and work night and day. My mounted infantry has been down five miles south of here, where they strike the enemys cavalry. All deserters and prisoners of war state that the enemys works are from two to four miles north of Atlanta. None this side of that. A very intelligent man, who left Lees army at Petersburg last Wednes- day, came in. He says this is the first time that Lees army was ever discouraged; that their losses have been enormous, and that every man in the country has gone to it. Ewell, with his corps, he says, has been sent on a raid to Pennsylvania. He also says that there are no guards on the railroads after getting twenty miles away from Atlanta, and that Johnstons trains have all gone to Angusta, Ga. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SEvENTEENTH ARMY Coups Near Chattahoochee River, Ga) July 12, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. D. LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: Inclosed please find copy of Special Field Orders, No. 66, Department and Army of the Tennessee.* The major-general commanding desires you to make such demonstra- tions as you may think best. Colonel Scott might throw one or two companies across the river and drive away their skirmishers, and the enemy might be driven across the river above Howells, provided your men are not too much exposed in doing so. These are merely sugges- tions by which you are not to be governed unlcss supported by your judgment. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDEJ~, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS Turners Ferry, July 12, 1864. Lieut. Col. A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: During the day we have done all in our power to extend our information as to the character and number of the enemy in our ~ See mx 130. 9 R RVOL XXXVIII, PT Page 130 [CHAP. L. 130 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. front. The Forty-first Mississippi is op~)osite us near the month of the Kickajack; the Thirty-second Georgia is oJ)positc to us at Howells Ferry, with what supports, if any, I do not know. Stewarts division, of Hoods corps, is opposed to us in the region of Saudtown Ferry. A band of guerrillas~ consisting of Georgia State Troops, was on this side of the Chattahoochee, just beyond the Sweet Water, last night. Stone- man was near Campbellton this morning, not having effrctcd a crossing. He reports the enemy, 8,000 strong, opposing mm. Very respectfully, M. D. LEGGETT, Brigadier- General. CARTERSYILLE, July 12, 1864. Lient. DAVID F. How, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters Cavalry: Major Thayer, Tenth Ohio Cavalry, has returned from expedition. Eight miles above Canton he dispersed a band of rebels, driving them into the mountains. Captain Oglethorpe, commanding the band, was wounded. The major brought in 17 mules, 7 horses, and 15 deserters from rebel army, and 2 prisoners of war. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 12, 1864. (Received 9.30 p. m. 13th.) Major ECKERT: Heads of two columns crossed. Howard has two divisions crossed; think all will be across by 15th. In the mean time supplies are being accumulated rapidly. J. C. VAN DUZEII. SPECIAL ) HDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MISS., FIELD ORDERS, ~ In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, No. 34. ) July 12, 1864. I. The Fifth Regiment Iowa Infantry is hereby transferred from the Department of the Tennessee to the 1)epartment of the Cuinberland, and the commanding officer will report to Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas for instructions. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. l)EPT. OF THE TENN., No. 66. Near Chattahoochee River, July 12, 1864. * * * * * * * II. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will march his command at 5 oclock this p. in. toward the bridge across the Chattahoochee near IRoswell Factory, making a distance of about ten miles to-night if practicable. He will resume his march at an early honr to-morrow morning, thus ~)rotecting his men and animals from the heat of the day Page 131 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 131 III. Maj. Geti. F. P. I3lair, commanding Seventeenth Army Corps, xviii remain in his preseiit position until the return of General Stone- man, or until further orders, making such demonstrations about Sand- town, 1-lowells, and Turners as may be made necessary, commnm- eating in the iiiean time with Major-General Sherman, and receiving from hum instructions. Four days rations will be issued to the men of the Seventeenth Corps, and the trains sent to Marietta with the general supply train. IV. All the wagons and artillery will move by Marietta and till up with provisions, forage, and amm unition. By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLAI~K, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 13, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I will try to save enough of the pontoon bridi~e to make one for Stoneman. GEO. II. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVIsION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, Jaly 13, 1864. General ThOMAs: Get everything ready and wait till I hear of Stoneruan. Blair must remain where he is till Stonemnan comes, and will have a two days march to reach lioswell, giving you ample time. W. T. SHET~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 13, 1864. General THOMAS: Do you propose to effect a crossing at Paces to-morrow? If not ordered, better ~yait one more day. I have my orders ready, conditioned on Stonemans return. Expected back the day after to-morrow. Did you see anything worth reporting to-day? W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 13, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I am ready to effect a crossing at P~wes Ferry to-morrow, but will wait if you think best until you hear from Stonemnan. I have not seen anything worth reporting to-day. GEO. I-I. THOMAS, Major- Gencra i, U. S. Volan Icers, Conunanding Page 132 132 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. SHERMANS UEADQUAE TERS~ July 13, 18G4. Major-General THoi~IAs: Telegraiph office is now opened at Roswell. W. T. SHERMAN, ]iiliajor- General. hEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, July 13, 18618 j). m. General WHIPPLE, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: I have reconnoitered for about a mile to my right and front. Met some rebel cavalry pickets, but no infantry, on the bluff just across Island Creek. General Wood will uiarch for Paces Ferry at 5 a. m. to-morrow. After examination, I concluded to start a trestle bridge, and will try to finish it by to-morrow night. Respectfully, ~. ~. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 13, 18618.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: In consequence of Major-General Sherman wishing to wait until he hears from General Stoneinan before crossing the Fourteenth Corps, the major-general commanding directs me to write that you need not move your division down the river in the morning, as heretofore ordered, but await further orders in your present camp. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT 01 TIlE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 13, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Co12s: GENERAL: A pontoon bridge will be laid at Paces Ferry to-morrow morning probably by 8 oclock. The major-general commanding directs that as soon as the bridge is ready~you commence crossing your corps, and continue until it is all over. Major-General Howard will to-mor- row morning march a division from Powers Ferry down the south bank of the river foi the purpose of covering your crossing. As soon as you get one division across l)lease relieve General Howards division and permit it to return to its camp. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 133 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 13, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN, Gomdg. Military Div. of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I liave been reconnoitering to-day, and have got a little additional information abont roads, & c., which I will send you to- morrow. In the morning J will move forward onto the ridge now occupied by General Howard, connecting with him, and refuse my left, so as to cover my bridge. 1 will then be able to reconnoiter farther. Very respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Ishams Ferry, Ga., July 13, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army (Jorps: GENERAL: I have reconnoitered the ridge, which you now occupy, about two miles beyond yonr left; also the ground about the head- waters of the creek which runs between my present position and yours. I can easily place my corps on goo(l ground, so as to connect my pres- ent right with your left and form with you a continuous line, covering the two bridges. I will take that position in the morning if we do not get orders for a farther advance. I wonid do so this evening, but that my men are drawing clothing to-day, and there appears to he no con- siderable force of the enemy withiii several miles of ns. if you get in- formation of the enemy which seems to make it advisable for me to change my line to-night please inform me and I will act accordingly. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. MOORES BRIDGE, GA., July 13, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: GENERAL: By taking a roundabont way, and byunfrequentedroads, our l)arties succeeded in capturing or cutting off every scout the enemy had out. We surprised the guard at the bridge (the First Tennessee Cavalry), and drove them from the bridge before they had time to set fire to the straw and pine-knots prepared for its conflagration. The Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry had the advance, 111i(ler Colonel Adams, and did the thing handsomely. The bridge had been partially destroyed by tearing up the sleepers and planks, but we will have it rel)aire(l during the night. It is a covered structure, very well built, 480 feet long, on two- main spans. One of the couriers we eai)ture(l caine down on this side of the river, bore a message to the eommami(hihg officer here that the Yankees were coming in large force, awl that he must hold the bridge at all hazards, amid that re-enforcememits were on the way. This point is twenty-five miles from Campbellton. There is another bridge at Franklin, twenty-five miles lower dowim. iNewnan, on the railroad, is ten miles from here, and I understand the road leads through dense woods. We will try what we can do to-morrow morning as soon as it is light. I can hear of no railroad bridge in this vicinity. The people, negroes and others, say the road runs on a ridge, but if we do nothing to the road it will create a diversion. GEORGE STOKEMAK, Major- General Page 134 134 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. ROSWELL, July 13, 18643.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Telegraph is finished here. Scouting parties went five miles south on Buck Bead road. Found no enemy. Enemy is strong on Decatur road near Vances Creek, and also on road one mile south of McAfees Bridge. All quiet and everything progressing satisfactorily. Bridge will be finished to-day. G. M. DODGE, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 13, 1864. General DODGE, Roswell: General McPherson left here about 10 a. m. for Marietta and Roswell. Report to me this evening his arrival and that of the Fifteenth Corps. All very quiet here. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. Ro 5WELL~ July 13, 18649 p. rn. Major-General SHERMAN: Advance of Fifteenth Army Corps is camped near Roswell. General McPherson has not arrived. Mcii who left Atlanta yesterday, ciii- ploy~s in Government shops, say all machinery, stores, & c., have been packed up and are being sent to Augusta. They came by way of Decatur. Report no force of enemy in that direction, or works. They think most of infantry is west of railroad. They saw no works after leaving At- lanta. Bridge is built; is double track. G. M. DODGE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Chattahoochee River, July 13, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: In obedience to your order conveyed in the indersement on C eneral Stonemans commmmnication, I have directed General Lcggett to picket the mouth of the Sweet Water Creek. General Lcggctt pickets now from the mouth of iNickajack Creek to time mouth of Sweet Water Creek, and General Gresham pickets from the month of Nickajack to General Hookers right, a distance of about three miles, niakin~ a total distance picketed by this corps of about ten miles. This leaves me a reserve of only two regiments belonging to the Fourth Division, General Greshanis, and which will be placed in the most available posi- tion to act as a reserve. The enemy have at various points along the river small boats in which parties can be conveyed across at night, making it necessary to have heavier pickets thami would otherwise be rcquired, which accounts for the fact the rcservc is so small Page 135 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 135 I have the honor to inclose for your information a report of Brigadier- General Force, commanding the brigade which pickets the extreme righL Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosrire.] HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD I)Iv., 17TH ARMY CORPS, July 13, 1864. Capt. J. C. 1)OuGLASS, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that all remains quiet here. The rebels appear to have a continuous picket-line along the river; none on this side. At regular crossings and where ravines go down to the river they have earth-works. I have seen only two embrasures, and they are without guns. Yesterday afternoon one gun opened near Sandtown Ferry on nien in a blackberry patch, and another on a recon- noitering party which went to Adaholts Ferry, at the mouth of Sweet Water. They were brought up and taken away by the rebels; were not in position. About 2 oclock yesterday afternoon a body of cavalry some of the pickets call it one, some two regimentsaccompanied by four or five wagons, went toward the interior from Sandtown Ferry. A body of infantrythey called it a brigadeaccompanied by about thirty wagons, moved to the south of southwest from near the same point. They can be seen only a short distance from the river, however. Opposite Adaholts, clothes hanging on bushes indicate a small camp. Iii a valley between Bakers and Sandtown Ferries, perhaps Utoy Creek, has appeared to be a larger camp, judging by smoke and the glimmer of fire. Nothing heard down the river, except two guns about dusk in direction of General Stoneman. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. F. FORCE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SEvENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Chattahoochee River, July 13, 1864. Brig. Gen. A. B. LEGGETT, Comdg. Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps: GENERAL: A report from General Stoneinan to General Sherman says that he made an effort to cross at Campbellton, but froni the con- dition of the river and the position of the enemy was unable to do so. He, however, left one brigade there, and has gone on to Franklin with the remainder of his command. In an imlorsement upon this paper Gemi- eral Sherman directs that a picket be kept at the ford across Sweet Water near its mouth, the same that is used by the cavalry. The major-general commanding desires you to carry this order into eff~ct by placing a strong picket at the point indicated, keeping up your line along the river. As soon as the Fourth Division is allowed to contract its present extended front, should you think it iiecessary, a portion of it will be placed in such a position as to act in reserve. If the regiment detailed to guard the trains has not returned to you, you will please send a peremptory order for it to join you immediately. Please say by return messenger whether it has returned or not. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, A ssistctv t Adjutant- General Page 136 13G THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ~C1JAP. L. ROSWELL, GA., July 13, i8648.30 p. rn. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: (Received 3.25 a. m. 14th.) Line of telegraph opened to this place this morning. No material change in position of army since my last. Movement by left dank pro- gressing steadily, and headqnarters of Sherman, Thomas, and McPher- son will be here to-morrow. Heat excessive, and men suffer. J. C. VAN DUZER. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF TILE Mississippi, No. 20. Nashville, Tenn., July 13, 1864. I. The grain and hay raised in the State of Tennessee being re- quired for the nse of the army, its exportation from the State is posi- tively prohibited. II. The quartermasters department will purchase the grain and hay required for consumption by the army. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: H. M. SAWYER, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRs. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 52. Isham2s Ferry, Ga., July 13, 1864. * * * * * * * VIII. To-morrow morning General Hascall will move his division for- ward on the ridge now occupied by General Howards corps, connect with General Howards left, and prolong his line along the crest of the main ridge until it reaches the dividing ridge between the creeks, in front and on the left of onr present position. General Cox will swing forward his right so as to occnpy the ridge last described, connect with General Hascalls left, and let his own left. rest substantially where it now is. The troops will intrench the new position as soou as they are established npon it. Gaps will be left in the works wherever they may cross the roads which run along the ridges where the lines are to be established, as well as where cross-roads intersect the line. A staff officer will be sent to the division conimanders about 7 a. m. to point out the positions referred to. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Miajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIvIsIoN OF TILE Mississippi, In the Field near Uhattahoochee Ilirer, July 11, 1864. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 6 ~ in.) Washington, D. C.: If State recruiting agents must come into the limits of my command under the law, I have the honor to request that the commanding officers or adjutants of regiments be constituted such agents, and that States be entitled to a credit for recruits they may enlist, who are accepted and mustered in by the regular mustering officer of their division and corps. This will obviate the difficulty I apprehend from civilian agents. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 137 (IFIAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 137 NEAR CHATTAHOOCHEE IIIVER, GA., July 14, 186410 p. m. (Received 3.45 a. in. 15th.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK Washi. gton, D. C.: All is well. I liave 110W accumulated stores at Allatoona and Ma- rietta, both fortified and garrisoned points. I have also three points at which to cross the Chattahoochee in my possession, and oniy await Gen- eral Stonemans return from a trip down the river to cross the army in force and move on Atlanta. Stoneinan is now out two days, and had orders to be back on the fourth or fifth day, at farthest. Rousseau should reach Opelika about July 17. Before regulations are made for the States to send recruiting orneers into the rebel States, I must ex- press my opinion that it is the height of folly. I cannot permit it here, arid I will not have a set of fellows here hanging about on any such pre- tenses. We have no means to transport and feed them. The Sanitary and Christian Commissions are enough to era(lieate all traces of Chris- tianity out of our minds, much less a set of unscrupulous State agents in search of recruits. All these dodges and make-shifts but render us ridiculous in our own estimation. I must protect my army, and I say beforehand, I have no means to tr usport recruiting parties south of Nashville, or to feed them, if they come here in spite of me. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. UDQRs. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Vinings Station, July 14, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCOoK, Corndg. First Cavalry Division, Dept. of the Cumberland: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you move with your division to-morrow morning to this vicinity. When the Army of the Cumberland crosses the river or moves from its present position your division will patrol and picket the Chattahoochee from Paces to Turners Ferry. Lillys battery will be posted by General Brannan in position on the left of and near the railroad crossing of the river. The work for it is now being made. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. IJEADQUAR TFP 4 FIRST DivisioN CAVALRY, 110 i(rore ~ Ii Jab, Ii 1(564. d ()H~C, Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberiand: I have the honor to report that in compliance with your letter of in- structions, dated July 11, I proceeded to Dallas, t xventy-nine miles (lis- taut from my camp, on the morning of the 12th and reached there at 5 p. ni. the same day. I succeeded in arresting Green B. Turner, Stephen Allen, and Aleck. Bullock. Nick Allen and Lem. Anderson, two of the other parties you instructed me to arrest, are across the Chattahoochee: John Hicks could not be found. No force of the enemy has been in that vicinity, but small scouting parties of from eight to ten pass through Dallas every few days and frequently return with prisoners Page 138 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP L. 138 My men captured 4 of their soldiers and 7 mules. As you (lesired, I endeavored to impress upon the minds of all the citizens remaining in Dallas the fact that they would meet with prompt and severe punish- ment if guilty of any acts in the future which would either disturb the peace of the community or give aid and comfort to the enemies of the Government. On my return I marched on a road leading into the Powder Springs and Lost Mountain roadone our army has not yet passed over. We found many of the enemys dead buried along it; at one place over sixty graves, and at several others from twenty-five to thirty in each. I judge from this that their loss on our right was heavier than supposed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD M. MeCOOK, Br~qadier- General, Commanding Division. HDQRs. THIRD DIvISION, FOURTH ARMY CoRPS, South of the Chattahoochee, July 14, 1864. Col. J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General: COLONEL: Moore, a scout whom I sent out on the 13th at daylight, has just returned, and makes the following statement: He left Atlanta at 3 p. in. yesterday. He came out of Atlanta, returning by the Peach Tree road. About a mile from the town on this road the rebels were busily engaged in constructing four separate forts on the separate hills. The inhabitants of Atlanta are still leaving, going farther south ,and the town is pretty well cleaned out. All the valuable property, such as machinery and army stores, has been removed, and he heard toward Augusta. Moore says only a small supply of subsistence is kept in Atlanta, only so much as could be readily moved in case of a retreat. Moore says General Bragg arrived from Richmond on Tuesday evening and a brigade of four regiments from Pollard, Ala. Mo ore says that it was reported in the rebel camps that this brigade was from Kirby Smith, but that he talked with the men of the brigade, who told him they were from Pollard, Ala., and had never been with Kirby Smith. Moore says in returning he came out by the Peach Tree road till he struck the Turners Ferry road, which he took and went to the extreme left of the rebel infantry line. This point is a small church in sight of the ferry. General Manigaults brigade is on the extreme left; thence to Campbellton the river is watched by squads of cavalry. From the left of the rebel line Moore returned to Rack Head, where lie found Wheelers cavalry, and thence into our lines through General Dodges commamid, to whom lie reported. Moore brings ai 1 Atlanta paper of yesterday. Respt( tfnlly, , Til. J. WOOD, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. P. S.Moore says as he passed along the rebel lines yesterday after- noon, Hardees corps, which has beemi in the center for some time, was breaking up its camp, amid is, he understood, to take positiomi to the right of Stewarts corps, which would place Hardees corps on the cx- treme rebel right, and Moore says it would be entirely to the right or east of the railroad. WOOD Page 139 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 rThdorsement.1 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Powers Perry, Chattahoochee Firer, Ga., July 14, 1864. Respectfully forwarded for the information of the major-general corn- nx nding Department of the Cumberland. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General, Commanding. ROSWELL BRIDGE, July 14, 1~G4. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding: GENERAL: The bridge is finished, and the Fifteenth Army Corps will cross the river this afternoon and be in position by night, on the left and a little in advance of General Dodge. Nothing new here. JAS. B. MCPHERSON, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Chattahoochee Firer, July 14, 1864. Geii eral MCPHERSON, Foswell: General Blair reports a movement of cavalry down the river on the other side all last night, drawn there doubtless by 5toueman~s and Rousseaus movement. Let General Garrard feel out strong and dis- turb those that are left. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. ROSWELL BRIDGE, July 14, 18645 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Would it not be a good move for Garrar(l to cross his division at McAfees Bridge, push one of his brigades out towar(l Cross Keys, and engage the cavalry there; and send his other brigade rapidly via Law- renceville dowa to Covington on the railroad, an(l burn the bridge across Yellow River and other streams in the vicinity, and do all the damage they can ~ The (listance is forty miles. JAS. B. IVIcPIIERS0N, Major- (jell era 1. IIDQRS. MILITARY DlYlSION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee Firer, July 14, 1864. General MCPHERSON, Foswell: The bridge over Yellow River is too well guarded by men and re- doubts to be carrie by our cavalry, but General Garrard might dash at the road east of the Stone Mountain. Sec him ,and it is useless to attempt anything unless he be willing-, for until our infantry is out a Page 140 140 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. far as the -railroad he may encounter most of Wheelers cavalry, but I have no doubt most of Johnstons Cavalry is gone to the south toward West Point, drawn there by Generals Stoneman and Rousseau. A dash at the road wonld develop the truth, but to be certain, the infan- try should be out as far as the head of Nancys Creek. I hope to hear of General Stoneman to-night. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRs. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF TILE TENNESSEE, Neai [Roswell] Bridge, July 14, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Corn manding F~Jteenth Corps: GENERAL: You will move your comman(l across the Chattahoochee on the bridge just finished by Major-General Dodges command and take up a position on the Roswell and Atlanta road in the vicinity of a mans house named Beaver, about two miles from the river. Captain Reese, of the Engineers, will indicate the position. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 14, 1$64. Brigadier-General LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps: GENERAL: General Sherman is very anxious to know at the very earliest moment of the return of Ma~jor-General Stoneman. The gen- eral therefore requests that you will direct the commanding officer of the troops on your extreme right, if possible, to communicate this to the commanding officers of the cavalry on your right with the request that they send an express to you, which please forward to these head- quarters. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahooehee River, July 14, 1864. Commanding Officer of the Troops ordered from Allatoona to Kenesaw: The position at Kenesaw is selected on account of it5 i)ecll]iar stren~th. The main part of your force should l)e held at some good camp ne~ r its base, with a strong picket and lookout on the easterit hill and the one known as Brushy Hill, occupied by General Leggett, (lur- ing our operations before Marietta. The point known as the tan-yard, or it may be the water station, appeared to me the best point for your camp. The chief object is to ~-uard the railroa.d as far down as Mari- etta and to protect our stores in Marietta. There are three regiments in Marietta to load and unload cars and to guard the place, and, should the (lepot become threatened, you will make the proper disposition to cover it. I dont want troops quartered in a town because the univer- sal experience is that they lose in discipline and efficiency. Keep your regiments in good camps, with regnlai- guard mountings and evenin Page 141 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNLON. 141 parades. When you send out patrols and expeditions give clear writ- ten instructions, and caution your ineu not to straggle about aud get picked up in detail. As long as our main army is here or in front no enemy will threaten you but small squads of cavalry that are sent on errands of mischief Send frequent patrols down to Lost Mountain and Powder Springs; also up toward Laughing (3-al an(l Canton. Show no mercy to guerrillas or persons threatening our road or telegraph. Re- move to the rear all suspicious persons and families, and bear in mind that the safety of this army is not to be imperiled by any citizens, n~ matter how hard their friends may I)lea(l. I understand you have four regiments besides the Fifty-third Indiana, which should join General Blair as he passes Marietta en route for Itoswell to-morrow or next day. Instruct your men not to fear cavalry. Infantry can take to the bushes and hills so quickly that they are safe against any odds of cavalry, and by waylaying the road at known points can defeat cavalry by firing from ambush. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 14, 18G4. Brig. Gen. JOHN B. SMITH: I regard Allatoona of the first importance in our future plans. It is a second Chattanooga; its front and rear are susceptible of easy defense and its flanks are strong. The post properly extends from the Etowah to Allatoona Depot, and flanks the Pumpkin Vine and Allatoona Creeks, embracing a space wherein can be accumulated supi)lies that would make a raid to our rear less to be feared, giving us the means of living till repairs could be made. I want you to study it in all its bearings. As long as our army is in front, in good order, of course nothing could threaten Allatoona, and then its garrison should scour the country for miles around, especially up the Pumpkin Vine and Enharlee Creeks and in the direction of Noonday and Canton. Everything in the nature of grain, forage, and vegetables should be collected. No suspicious citizens should be allowed near the railroad or in the country. The safety of this army must not be imperiled by citizens. If you enter- tain a bare suspicion against any family send it to the North. Any loafer or suspicious person seen at any time should be imprisoned and sent off. If guerrillas trouble the road or wires between Kingston and Acworth, they should be shot without mercy. Rowlands Springs, Laughing Gal, Canton, and Dallas should receive sudden and unex- pected visits by night by parties about 200 strong. I will soon be in motion again and will feel more confidence that I know you are at Allatoona. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 14, 1864. C0MMANDIN~ OFFICER, Marietta, Ga.: I have ordered three regiments at Marietta amid a brigade at Kenesaw. This brigade will come to Marietta in case of danger to the depot, bu Page 142 142 THE ATLANTA CAMJ~AIGN. [CHAP. L. Kenesaw is selected on aceount of its security an(i proximity, and tioops are more easily (lisciplilled in camp than in a town. Although you are chiefly needed as a town guard and to handle stores, you should not neglect the military duties. Always be prepared for a dash of cavalry. Occupy the court-house and barricade and loophole the doors and windows; also make a good ladder to the roof, and make the balus- tra(le bullet-proof; so that a party of ineti on its roof could sweep the streets. Other houses should. also be selected and prel)ared near the railroad (lel)ot. A few hours work will coiivert any good brick or stone house into a citadel. Arms and ammunition should always be kept handy, and l)ickets kept well out to give notice. All citizens of whom you entertain the least suspicion should be sent North, no matter the seeming hardships. The safety of our depot must not depend upon the pleasure and convenience of citizens. Should any one be caught molest- ing our road, telegraph wires, or our stores, lie should be disposed oi finally anti summarily, especially if disguised in the garb of a citizen. W. T. SHEIIMAN, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL FIELD ORDEHS,) linQus. ALL. Div. ov TIlE Miss., In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, No. 35. ) July 14, 1864. Preliminary steps having already begun, the following general plan will be observed and adhered to: I. Major-General Thomas will prepare to cross his army at Powers and Paces Ferries, and take position out from the Chattahoochee River until he controls the country from Island Creek to Kyles Bridge, ove~ Nancys Creek, but will not move the whole of General Palmers and General Hookers corps across until he hears that General Stoneman i~ back froni his present expedition. He will endeavor to provide Gen eral Stoneman enough pontoon boats, balks, and chesses to make ont bridge. He will dispose of Gemieral MeCooks cavalry amid detaehmenft of his own infantry to watch the Chattahoochee about the old railroa crossing. II. As soon as General Stoneman refurmis he will dispose his cavalry to watch the Chattahoochee at Turners Ferry an(l about the mouth oi Niekajack, cominecting by patrols with General MeCook, and will, possible, procure enongh pontoons to muake a bridge ready on the fir~1 chance to cross the river about Howells or Sandtown, and break tfa Atlanta and West Point railroad and telegraplm. III. Major-General Schofield, after having well secured his crossing place at Phillips, will move out toward Cross Keys until he c~ommtroh the ridge between Island and Nancys Creeks and the road represente as leadiiig fromn IRoswell to Buck Head. IV. Major-General Blair will immediately, on th~e return of Major General Stoneman, move rapidly to Roswehl and jomn his army. Major General McPherson will then move his command out, either by tIn Cross Keys road or the old Ilightower trail, until he is abreast o Major-General Schofield, and General Garrard, with his cavalry, wil scout from McAfees Bridge toward I~inckneyville, and if no enemy i~ there in force will picket McAfees Bridge and take post on Genera McPhersons left, about Buchanans. V. The whole army will thus fbrnm a comicave line behind Nancy~ Creek, extemmding from Kyles Bridge to Buchanans, but no attempt wi Page 143 CHAP. LI 143 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. be nmde to form a line of battle. Each army will form a unit and con- nect with its neighbor by a line of pickets. Should the enemy assume the offensive at any point, which is not expected until we reach below Peach Tree Creek, the neighboring army will at once assist the one attacked. All preliminary steI)s may at once be made, but no corps need move to any great distance from the river until advised that General Stoneman is back. VI. Major-General Thomas will study well the country toward i)ecatur via Buck Dead, Major-General Schofield to a l)oint of the railroad four miles northeast of l)ecatur, and Major-General McPherson and General Garrard that toward Stone Mountain. Each army should leave be- hind the Chattahoochee River, at its bridge or at Marietta, all wagons or iucuuibrances not absolutely needed fbr battle. A weeks work after crossing the Chattahoochee should determine the first object aimed at, viz, the possession of the Atlanta and Augusta road east of Decatur, or of Atlanta itself By order of Maj. Geii. W. T. Sherman: L. 1\l. 1)AYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. CiTY POINT, VA., July 15, 1864. Major-General HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: In view of the possible recurrence of the late raid into Maryland, I would suggest that the following precautions be taken: First. There should be an immediate call for all the troops we are likely to require. Second. Washington City, Baltimore, and Harpers Ferry should be designated as schools of instruction, and all troops raised east of the State of Ohio should be sent to one of these three places as fast as raised. Nashville, Decatur, and Stevenson should also be named as schools of instrnction, and all troops raised in Ohio and west of it should be sent to those. By doing this we always have the benefit of our increased force, and they in turn improve more rapidly by contact with veteran troops. To supply Shermaii, all the rolling-stock that caim possibly be got to him should be sent. An effort ought to be made to transfer a large portion of stores now at Nashville to Chattdnooga. This might be facilitated by withdrawing for awhile the rolling-stock from the Nashville and Reynoldsburg Railroad, and a large I)art of the stock upon the Kentucky roads. There is every indication now, judg- ing from the tone of the Southern press, that, unless Johnston ms re- enforced, Atlanta will not be defended. They seem to calculate largely upon driving Sherman out by keeping his lines of communicatiomi cut. If he can supply himself once with ordnance and quartermnasters stores, and partially with subsistence, he will find no difficulty in staying until a permanent line can be opened with the south coast. The road fromu Chattanooga to Atlanta will be much more easily defended than that north of the Tennessee. With the supplies above indicated at Chatta- nooga, with, say, sixty days provisions there, I think there will be no doubt but that the country will supply the balance. Sheruman wmll, once in Atlanta, devote himself to collecting the resources of the coun- try. He will take everything the people have, and will then issue from the stores so collected to rich and poor alike. As he will take all their stock, they will have no use for grain further than is necessary for bread. If the enemny do not detach from here against Shermnan, they will, in case Atlanta falls, bring most of Johnstons army here with th Page 144 144 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. exl)CCtatioIL of driving us out, and then unite against Sherman. They will fail if they attempt this programme. My greatest fear is of their sending troops to Johnston first. Sherman ought to be notified of the possibility of a corps going from here, and should be prepared to take up a good defensive position in case one is sentone which he could hold against such increase. If hunter cannot get to Gordonsville and Charlottesville to cut the railroad, he should make all the valley south of the Baltimore and Ohio road a desert as high up as possible. I do not nican that houses should be burned, but all provisions and stock should be removed, and the people notified to move out. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQR5. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MississiPPi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee Iliver, July 15, 1864. General THOMAS: A man caine in last night from Columbus, Ga., with provost-mar- shals pass of July 4, who had escaped from Anderson[villeJ, and was one who was captured the time I went to Meridian. He gives but little news, and says the guard at Columbus and West Point are not over 500 each. Heard nothing from Mobile or Montgomery on his way up. A scoPt in from Atlanta with dates to 3 p. in. 13th says Bragg and staff had arrived, and Kirby Smith, with 20,000, was expected from Meridian. All bosh of course. All newspapers have quit Atlanta ex- cept the Memphis Appeal. That, I suppose, is tired of moving, and wants to be let alone. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General THOMAS: I have a letter from Major.General Stoneman, dated 13th, at Moores Bridge, on the Chattahoochee. He had cal)tured the scouts and drove ofi~ the bridge guard before he could burn it. This bridge is twenty-five miles below Caiupbellton, on the road from Carrollton to New- nan. General Stoneman said, at daylight next morning, viz, yesterday, he could make a demonstration on the railroad ten miles out. He captured a courier to the bridge guard, saying that a Yankee force was coming, but the bridge must be held at all hazards till the re-enforce- ments arrived. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississi~~I, In the Field near Chattahoochee River, July 1.5, 1864. General Tb AS: I have heard from General Stoneman. He attempted to cross at Moores Bridge, but encountered too much artillery, and thought it imprudent to attempt, lest he might not get back. He is now nea Page 145 CHAr. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 145 Villa Rica, and will move this evening to Sweet Water. I have ordered him to conic on over to Turners Ferry and relieve General Blair, whom I have ordered to draw ont of sight of the enemy to-night and move to- morrow for IRoswell. You may therefore make all preparations to cross at Paces Ferry to-morrow night or next morning and move out to con- trol the bridge over Nancys Creek. I will move my headquarters to- morrow to Powers Ferry. The redoubt from which General McCook is to control the lower bridge over Peach Tree Creek should be prepared for him to-night by infantry. Cavalry cannot work on parapets to- morrow. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. CAi~w NEAR VILLA RIcA, July 15, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: GENERAL: As I indicated to you in my last note, we completed the bridge (Moores), and were ready to cross at daybreak yesterday morn- ing, bnt before we essayed it a report came from Major Buck, in com- mand of a battalion seven miles above, that the enemy had been cross- ing above him on a boat or a bridge, and that his pickets had been cnt off. I, of course, made preparations accordingly, and found that the report originated in the sound made by the enemy crossing a bridge over a creek on the other side of the river, and nearly opposite to Major Buck. On attempting to cross the bridge the enemy opened upon it with four pieces of artillery from the edge of the timbers on the oppo- site side and made an endeavor to retake their rifle-pits near the waters edge. Deeming it inexpedient to push our endeavors farther, and knowing that it was easier to retain the men long enough to burn the bridge than to get them back again after they had been driven off I ordered the bridge to be burned and the boats that had been collected there for security destroyed. During the day I sent scouts down the river to within thirteen miles of Franklin, where there is another bridge, and found neither ford nor ferry-boats, and in the evening came to this point. We shall remain here and graze during the day, and in the evening move to the vicinity of Sweet Water Town, or within eight miles of it. Colonel Biddle, who was left with his brigade at Campbellton, reports the enemy quite strong at that point, with two guns of long range in each of the two redoubts on the opposite bluff which are opened upon him whenever any of his men show themselves. We get plenty of forage for the horses, beeg, and blackberries, and some bacon for the men, and are getting on finely. We want horseshoes and nails, and a little time where we can avail ourselves of a blacksmith shop to fit the shoes, to complete the cavalry and make it ready for any service. The artillery, however, want better horses and better ammu- nition, as the horses they have would be unable to make long consecu- tive marches, and the ammunition is but little better than solid-shot. I was very anxious to strike the railroad from personal as well as other con- siderations, but I became convinced that to attempt it would incur risks inadeqnate to the results, and unless we could hold the bridge, as well as penetrate into the country, the risk of capture or dispersion, with loss of animals (as I could hear of no ford), was almost certain. It is impossible to move without every step we take being known, women as well as men acting as scouts and messengers. I have sent to the rear about 40 prisoners, 1 of them the cemmauder of the picket 10 R R.-YOL XXXVIII, PT Page 146 1443 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. at the bridge on this side, and 16 or 17 of them pickets an(l scouts in the vicinity of the bridge. I am unable to say how much force is opposite to ns, bnt from what can be seen and I can hear, I am convinced it is no inconsiderable one. GEOIIGE STONEMAN, iliajor- General, & e. IIDQRS. MILITARY BIViSION OF TIlE Mississm~~m, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General STONEMAN, Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I have just received your note of 15th and wish you to hasteim to your old position to relieve General Blair. I want you to cover and watch ~ Ferry and month of Nickajack whilst we cross above and move out. You will have plenty of time to shoe and fix up. General Blair has your orders. I am, sir, very respectfully, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, July 15, 1864. Maj. Gen. W T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I send you a map* of the country which I reconnoitered yesterday. Sandy Spring Camp-Ground is an important center of roads. It is situated just at the head of Island Creek. The main road from that point appears to lead toward Piuckneyville at McAfees Bridge. No doubt the road to Cross Keys leaves it only a short distance beyond the caml)-ground. There are no people left in the country except a few ig- norant women and children. Hence, it is inipossible to i~et accurate in- formation except by actual reconnaissance. As soon as I receive infor- mation that the general movement is to commence as directed in your Field Orders, No. 35, I propose to move my command to the camp-ground, and then reconnoiter toward Piuckneyville, Cross Keys, and Buck Head until I find the ground you desire me to occupy, and its relation to that to be Occul)ied by Generals Thomas and McPherson. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding~ HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MIssISsIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General MCPHERSON, Roswell: One of our Meridian men came in last night, an escape from the prison at Andersom4ville]. He brings a provost-marshals pass from Columbus, of July 4. He came by way of La Grange and Franklin; saw bat few of the enemy. Says West Point and Columbus are defended chiefly by To appear iu the Atlas Page 147 CHAP. L.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 enrolled militia. Heard nothing of General Stoneman, General iRons- sean, or from Mobile. I expect. General Stoneman back, and have ordered General Blair to start the moment General Stoneman gets tip as far as Sandtown. Of conrse the report of Kirby Smith with his 20,000 is all nonsense. Braggs arrival front Richmond must be to consult. W. T. SHERMAN, 711 ajor- General, Commanding. HDQR5. MiLITARY DIVISION OF THE 1\Iissilssjzppi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General 1\ICPIIERSo~, Bo8weli: 1 have heard from General Stonernan. He di(l not break the lower railroad, bnt burned a bridge over the Chattahoochee near Newnan. He will be in to-night, and I have ordered General Blair to move for Roswell to-morrow. You may, therefore, make all preparations to move out toward the Stone Mountain the day after to-morrow. Notify Gen- eral Garrard to move in connection with you, sending his traii to yours. That Angusta roa(1 must be destroyed and occupied between 1)ecatur and Stone MountaiiY by you and General Garrard. XV. T. SHERMAN, ]Jihiajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General MCPHERSON, Ro8well: What sort of a road do you find the ilightower trail ~? Do you find a road leading direct to Stone Mountain or to Decatur ~? If General Scho- held moves straight on Cross Keys, and you so that your left is on High- toxver trail, when across Nancy~s Creek or the ridge between Nancys and the Peach Tree, your centers should not be more than three miles apart. I would like you to find a road from about Buchanans to the head of Snaplinger Creek. W. T. SHERMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. FIDQRS. MILITARY l)IVIsiioN OF TILE MISsIsSIPPI In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General BLAIR, Commanding Seventeenth Corps: GENERAL: I have just heard from General Stoneman, who says he will be over at Sweet Water Town to-night. I have ordered him to hurry and relieve you. Haul out of sight all your guns to-night ready in the morning to move to Roswell. You can save much distance by coming by my headquarters and taking a road near the Chattahoochee but the main Marietta road is plainer and easier for wagons and it may be is best. Choose for yourself. Do not go to Roswell town, but to the bridge or across where General McPherson is. I am, sir, very respectfully, & c., XV. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commaading Page 148 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 148 [CHAr. L. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. Brigadier-General LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division, & venteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Inclosed please find orders for the movement of this com- mand to-morrow morning. As a portion of your command is so distant the entire corps will encamp just beyond the Nickajack, at the point where General Force crossed the first day of our arrival in this vicinity. A note from General Sherman says that General Stoneman is at Sweet Water Creek to-night and will commence relieving you eamly to-morrow morning. It is desirable that yon leave your pickets on until relieved by Stoneman, in order to mask this movement as long as possible from the enemy. The bulk of your force can move out at any time you may select; the pickets being unencumbered can rapidly join them after being relieved. All necessary arrangements have been made to provide the men with rations at their camp to-morrow night. The general desires you to give the men the advantage of the cooler portions of the day as much as possible. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. P. 8.Upon further reflection the general thinks you had better withdraw all your pickets up to Sandtown, leave a strong picket there, withdraw all from that point up to Howells, and picket from there to Greshams left until the remainder of your command is concentrated, when they will all be withdrawn. Respectfully, & c., A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 15, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Granger reports about 2,800 of the enemy~ s cavalry across the Ten- nessee, near Claysville. I have telegraphed him he has force enough, and I shall expect him to whip any force the enemy can now get across the Tennessee. GEO. II. THOMAS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 15, 1864. Brigadier-General GRANGER, Decatur, Ala.: Your dispatches received. The major-general commanding says you have force enough to whip any force which may cross the river, and he expects you will do it; and after you have driven them off arrest all sympathizers with the rebellion in your district and send them to Brig- adier-General Webster, at Nashville, to be banished from the United States. WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 149 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 149 BRIDGEPORT, July 15, 1864. Captain CIST, Assistant Adjutant- General: I received a dispatch from Brigadier-General Granger and one from Major-General Milroy that 2,80() rebels, with artillery, were crossing the river at Claysville, bnt ii ot stating nuder whose command and what direction they were moving. If I receive the arms and ammunition as soon as possible, I can hold this post. If I should need any re-enforce- ments I will telegraph. W. KRZYZANOWSKI, Colonel, Commanding Post. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 15, 1864. General JOHN E. SMITH, Allatoona: The general will move forward some little distance to-morrow, bnt will be glad to see you. Your telegram has not been received, but that by conner came this noon. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Roswell Factory, Ga., No. 53. ) July 15, 1864. * * * * * * * II. Brig. Gen. Charles iR. Woods will assume command of the First Division (luring the temporary absence of Brig. Gen. P. J. Osterhaus. By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: It. It. TOWNES, A ssistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, July 16, 186410 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: The attempted invasion of Maryland having failed to give the enemy a firm foothold North, they are now returning, with possibly 25,000 troops. All the men they have here, beyond a sufficiency to hold their strong fortifications, will be an element of weakness to eat up their sup- plies. It is not improbable, therefore, that you will find in the next fortnight re-enforcements in your front to the number indicated above. I advise, therefore, that if you get to Atlanta you set about destroying the railroads as far to the east and south of you as possible; collect all the stores of the country for your own use, and select a point that you can hold until help can be had. I shall make a desperate effort to get a position here which will hold the enemy without the necessity of s~ many men. If successful, I can detach from here for other enterprises, looking as much to your assistance as anything else. U. S. GItANT, Lieutenant- General Page 150 150 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. I,. WASHINGTON, July 16, 18644.30 p. rn. Major-General ShERMAN, Georgia: General Grant wishes me to call your attention to the possibility of Johnstons being re-enforced from Richmond, and the importance of your having prepared a good line of defense against such increase of rebel force; also, the in~portance of getting as large an amount of sup- plies as possible collected at Chattanooga. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS, Powers Ferry, on the Chattahoochee, Ga., July 16, 186411 p. m. (Received 10.45 a. in. 17th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, IVashington, D. C.: I have yours and General Grants dispatches. I had anticipated all possible chances and am accumulating all the stores possible at Chatta- nooga and Allatoona, but I do not fear Johnston with re-enforcements of 20,000 if he will take the offensive; but I recognize the danger aris- ing from my long line and the superiority of the enemys cavalry in nnm- bers and audacity. I move to-morrow from the Chattahoochee toward Decatur and Stone Mountain, east of Atlanta. All well. Copy of this to General Grant. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIEATh2UARTER5 OF THE ARMY Washington, July 16, 1864. General SHERMAN, Georgia, r~a Chattanooga: Mv DEAR GENERAL: Yours of the 9th is just received. If I have written you no encouragement or advice it has been mainly because you have not wanted either. Your operations thus far have been the admiration of all military men; and they prove what energy and skill combined can accomplish, while either without the other may utterly fail. In the second place, I must be exceedingly cautious about making military suggestions not through General Grant. While the general himself is free from petty jealousies, he has men about him who would gladly make difficulties between us. I know that they have tried it several times, but I do not think they will succeed. Nevertheless, I think it well to act with caution. I therefore make all suggestions to him and receive his orders. In my present position I cannot assume responsibility except in matters of mere administration or in way of advice. The position is not an agreeable one, but I am willing to servP wherever the Government thinks I can 1)e most useful. As you will learn from the newspapers, we have just escaped another formidable raid on Baltimore and Washington. As soon as Hunter retreated southwest from Lynchburg the road to Washington was open to the rebels, and I predicted to General Grant that a raid would be made. But he would not believe that Ewells corps had left his fron Page 151 CHAP. U CO~RESPONDhNCE, ETC.UNlON. 151 till it had been gone more than two weeks and had already reached Maryland. He was deceived by the fact that prisoners captured about I~etersburg represented themselves as belonging to Ewells old corps, being so ordered no doubt by their officers. We had nothing left for the defense of Washington and Baltimore but militia, invalids, and convalescents, re-enforced by armed clerks and quartermasters em- ployes. As the lines abont Washington alone are thirty-seven and a. half miles in length, laid ont by McClellan for an army of 150,000, you may judge that with 15,000 such defenders we were in no little danger of losing the capital or Baltimore, attacked by a veteran force of 30,000. Fortunately the Sixth Corps, under Wright, arrived just in the nick of time, and the enemy did not attempt an assault. Entre nous. I fear Grant has made a fatal mistake in putting him- self south of James River. He cannot now reach Richmond without taking Petersburg, which is strongly fortified, crossing the Appomat- tox and recros~ing the James. Moreover, by placing his army south of Richmond he opens the capital and the whole North to rebel raids. Lee can at any time detach 30,000 or 40,000 men withont our knowing it till we are actually threatened. I hope we may yet have full success, but I find that many of Grants general officers think the campaign already a failure. Perseverance, however, may compensate for all errors and overcome all obstacles. So mote it be. Be assured, general, that all your friends here feel greatly gratified with your operations, and I have not heard the usual growling and fault-finding by outsiders. I have twice presented in writing your name for major-general regular army, but for some reason the matter still hangs fire. Best regards to Thomas and McPherson. Yours, truly, H. W. HALIJECK. UDQES. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, on Chattahooehee, July iG, 18G4. Generals THOMAS and MCPHERSON: Dispatches from Generals Grant and Halleck of to-day speak of the enemy having failed in his designs in Maryland. and cautioning me that Lee may in the next fortnight re-enforce Johnston by 20,000. It behooves us, therefore, to hurry, so all will move to-morrow as far as Nancys Creek. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, on (Jitattahoochee Firer, July iG, IRGi. General THOMAS: All are ready amid will move in the morning accor(ling to Orders, No. 35. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 152 152 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. - [CHAP. L. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISiON OF THE Mississipvi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 16, 1864. General THoMAS: I am about moving camp to vicinity of Powers, and will visit Gen- erals Howard and Schofield, where I can be found in case of necessity. I cant imagine what cavalry it is that General Granger reports at Clays- yule. What is the gun-boat abouf? It should be at Guntersville at once. If Johnston has ordered this movement he will not care about Huntsville or Decatur, but Stevenson and Bridgeport. The latter is of vital importance and he knows it. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQITARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, July 16, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I cannot conceive what cavalry Granger refers to. The gun-boat has been out of my charge for more than two weeks. Granger ought to have cavalry enough left from Rousseaus expedition to whip all the cavalry the enemy can send across the Tennessee. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U S. Volunteers. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, at Chattahoochee River, July 16, 1864. General THOMAS: Have you anything further of that cavalry force at Claysvilie l W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 16, 1864. General SHERMAN: Have heard nothing further from rebel cavalry. Am all ready arid will move in the morning across Paces Ferry. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 16, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0.0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that at daylight to-morrow morning you move one division down the river opposite Paces Ferry, and cover the laying of the bridges and the crossing of one di- vision of thejjFourteenth Corps, after which your division will return to its camp. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff Page 153 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION 153 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Powers Ferry, Chattahoochee River, Ga., July 16, 1864. Major-General STANLEY: GENERAL: General Wood will move the 6lite of his division down the south side of the Chattahoocliee liver at 4.30 a. m. to-morrow for the purpose of covering the laying of a pontoon bridge at Paces Ferry. As soon as said bridge has been laid and one division of the Fourteenth Corps crosses over the same he will return to his present camp. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLEIRTOK, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, in the Field, Powers Perry, Chattahoochee River, Ga., July 16, 18643 p. m. Brigadier-General WooD, Commanding Third Division: You will move the elite of your division, starting at 4.30 a. m. to- morrow, down the south side of the Chattahoochee to Paces Ferry, where you Will cover the laying of a pontoon bridge over the river. As soon as the bridge has been laid, and one division of the Fourteenth Army Corps has crossed over the same, you will return with your troops to their present camp. Do not remove your pickets, but let them remain where they are. Take with you one battery and one-halt of your ambulances and leave behind all of the rest of your material, camp and garrison equipage, & c. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLEITOK, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Copy to General Newton.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 16, 1864: Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as the bridges are laid at Paces Ferry to-morrow morning, which will probably be about 7 oclock, that you commence moving your corps across, posting the first division over in column on the road leading to the bridge near the mouth of Peach Tree Creek and so near the bridge as to command it. The next division will be posted with its head of column at Kyles Bridge across Nancys Creek on the road to Buck Head. The last division over will be posted in reserve at the fork in the road. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff Page 154 154 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. t. ITDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF TIlE CUMBERLAND, Near INnings Station, Ga., July 16, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. MCCOOK, Commanding First Cavalry Division: The general commanding directs me to inform you that the Fourteenth Army Corps is moving and will probably cross the river to-day. You will move with your command to the position pointed out to you and patrol the river as designated. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting As8istant Adjutant- General. DECATUR, July 16, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE: The force reported at Guntersville proved to be a detachment of Rousseaus command as telegraphed this morning by Colonel Lyon, from Claysville. H. S. GIIANGER, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field on the Chattahoochee, July 16, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army qf the Ohio: GENERAL: I have just heard from General McPherson. He moves in the morning for his position on a Decatur road till abreast of you, his cavalry at or near Buchanans. You will therefore move to-morrow to the position described in Special Field Orders, No. 35, which will be at the camp-ground you described to me to-day, with an advance down to Nancys Creek. This will div~rt, too, much attention on the part of the enemy to General Thomas, who will be engaged in crossing at Paces. General Garrard has been to Cross Keys and finds nothing on the road but bands of cavalry. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee River, July 16, 1864. General MCPhERSON, Roswell: General It. S. Granger, from Decatur, reports that a force of the enemys cavalry, 2,800 strong, has crossed the Tennessee north of Claysville. I cannot imagine what force that can be, unless sent from Johnstons left flank~ say some of W. H. Jacksons cavalry. As General Stoneman fonnd heavy cavalry all along the Chattahoochee as far as he went, say twenty-five miles below Cainpbellton, it is quite probable some of Wheelers force has been shifted to Johnstons left, iii which case the cavalry force will be light in your front. I hope to start General Blair so as to reach you early to-morrow and that he will be near enough for you to-morrow to get out as far as Buchanans. I am about moving camp. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 155 CHAP. Li 155 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Chattahoochee J4irer, July 16, 1864. General MCPHERSON, RosweU: Move in tile morning accor(liflg to Orders 35, but dont strike for the railroad till further orders. General Corse is here. General Blair started early to-day, and will be with you to-morrow. All well here. W. T. SHERMAN, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. ROSWELL BRIDGE, July 16, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I shall have to leave with my trains near this place at least three good regiments of infantry and one regiment of cavalry. I am waiting for Garrard to come to obtain some definite information about the road. As far as I can learn yet the Hightower trail is not practicable for troops. JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Marietta, July 16, 186411 p. m. [Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK:] COLONEL: I have the honor to report for the information of the major- general commanding that I arrived with my entire command within one mile of Marietta to-night. I have already issued orders for the com- mand to mov~ at 4 a. in. to-morrow. I will march to within four or live miles of Roswell Ferry to-morrow morning, when I will halt during the heat of the day to rest the men. I would request that 1 may re- ceive some more definite instructions as to the number of days rations I will be expected to take across the river with the command; how many ordnance wagons shall accompany the command; how much bag- gage officers will be allowed to take, and whether the regimental teams shall accompany the regiments. Should the general desire inc to join him at once, 1 will move forward rapidly without halting, although I think the men will be much benefited by the midday halt. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General, Commanding. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Chattahoochee l4irer, Ga., July 16, 1864. To-morrow morning General Davis will move his division to Paces Ferry at such an hour as to be prepared to cross the bridge which is expected to be prepared at that point by 7 a. in. He will immediately cross and post his division in column on the road leading to the bridge iiear the month of Peach Tree Creek, and so near to the bridge as to command it. General Johnson will cross his division at the same point as soon as General Davis column has passed and will post his division with the head of his column at Kyles Bridge, across Nancys Creek, o Page 156 15E THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. LOHAP. L. the road to Buck Bead. General Baird will cross as soon as the rear of General Johnsons colnmn has passed and will post his division in re- serve at the forks of the road. By order of Maj. Gen. J. M. Palmer: A. C. McCLUT~G, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQR5. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 5~. Ishams Ferry, Ga., July 16, 1864. * * * * * * * Ill. To-morrow morning, July 17, the corps will move to position be. tween Island Creek and Nancys Creek, covering the roads from John- sons Ferry toward Cross Keys an(l Buck Head. General Cox will move in advance and will march at 7 a. m. General Cox will first move to Sandy Spring Camp-Ground, take position at that place, and send forward a brigade toward Cross Keys, with orders to reconnoiter as far as Nancys Creek, and will await further orders before moving his divis- ion beyond the camp-ground. General ilascall will move along the road from his present position toward the camp-ground until he reaches the Atlanta or Buck Head road, take position at that point, and send a brigade to reconnoiter to. ward Buck Head, as far as the main ridge between Island Creek and Nancys Creek. This brigade will endeavor to communicate with Gen- eral Thomas left, along the ridge, alsowith the brigade of General Cox, sent to reconnoiter toward Cross Keys. General Cox will also send a regiment from the camp-ground to re- connoiter toward Pinekucyville and open communication with the right of General McPhersoQ, who is expected to move from 1{oswell toward Decatur, until he comes into position on our left. General Cox will leave his dismounted cavalry brigade an(l a battery to guard the bridge at Ishams Ford and such trains as may be left at this point. The brigade will be strongly intrenched on the commanding points near the bridge, and will hold their position at all hazards. The ordinary bag- gage trains and division ordnance trains will move with the troops. Other trains, when not moving to or from the depot, will be parked on the east bank of the Chattahoochee, immediately under the guns of the bridge guard. Hereafter in sending trains to the depot for supplies special care must be taken to prevent their capture or destruction. The trains of the two divisions will habitually move together, under a common guard, the strength of which will be determined at these head- qnarters, according to information which may be had at the time. No trains will be sent to the rear without orders from the commanding general. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS,~ ROSWELL BRIDGE, GA., No. (j9. July 16, 1864. * * * * * * VII. In order to carry out the spirit and intention of Special Field Orders, No. 35, headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, the following movements will take place Page 157 CuAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. Th7 1. The Fifteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. John A. Logan command- ing, will move out from its present position at 5.30 a. m. to-morrow on the road leading to Cross Keys, following this road to a point near Providence Church, where he will take a lefj-hand road (sometimes called the upper Decatur road) and proceed on this until he reaches Nancys Creek, where he will take up a good position on each side of the road and go into bivouac. 2. The Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge commanding, will follow immediately after the Fifteenth Corps on the Cross Keys road to Nancys Creek, where he will take up a good posi- tion on each side of the road and go into bivouac. He will direct the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry to feel out from his right for Major- General Sch6field~s command, and will endeavor to keep open a line of communication by means of vedettes. The l)iekets of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Corps should connect. 3. Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair, on his arrival at the bridge with his com- mand, will follow the rest of the army, and report to the major-general commanding for special instructions. 4. Brigadier-General Garrard, commanding cavalry division, will move his command at 5.30 a. m. to-morrow, crossing McAfees Bridge, and will push out to the vicinity of Buchanans, near the headwaters of Nancy~s Creek, and take up a position covering the roads to his left and front. He -will also feel to the right and open communication with the Fifteenth Army Corps. He will also leave a sufficient guard for Mc- Afees Bridge, and one regiment to be stationed near Iioswell to form part of the guard for trains and to patrol the country in the vicinity. The trains will be compactly parked, in the most secure position which can be found, as near the bridge as practicable. 5. Each corps commander will leave one gooi regiment of infantry to form the guard for the train. The regiment from the Sixteenth Corps will take post at the bridge on the west side, and the other two regiments, one from the Fifteenth and one from the Seventeenth, will remain immediately with the trains. fi. Great vigilance must be exercised by the guard to prevent the train from being surprised by the enemys cav~Ary. ~. All wagons and incumbrances not needed for battle must be left behind. 8. The supply train of the cavalry division will be parked with the infantry trains. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, A~istant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ibm ARMY CORPS, No. 54. 5 Near RosweU Factory, Ga., July 16, 1864. * * * * * * * IV. Division commanders will have their commands in readiness to move to-morrow morning, provided with three days rations and forage and 100 rounds per man of ammunition, in addition to that already in cartridge.boxes. * * * * * * * VI. This command will move out to-morrow morning at 5.30 oclock on the road leading to Cross Keys, following that road to a point nea Page 158 158 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. 1. Providence Church, where it will take a left-hand road, sometimes called the upper Decatur road, and proceed on this until Nancys Creek is reached, when a good position on each side of the road will be chosen and the troops ordered into bivouac. VII. Brig. Gen. Willihni Harrow, commanding Fourth Division, will have the advance, and will be followed by the divisions of Brigadier- Generals Woods and M. L. Smith, respectively. VIII. The ammunition wagons which are intended to transport the ad- ditional 100 rounds referred to in paragraph IV of the order will follow each division, and the ambulance train of each division will likewise follow. Fifteenth Army Corps headquarters train will follow in rear of the First Division. All other wagons of the command will follow in rear of the entire command in the order of march. Two regiments of infantry will follow in the rear of the entire train as rear guard. IX. The general supply train will be left and parked as near the river bridge as practicable, on the west side, under the direction of the chief quartermaster of the corps. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gemi. John A. Lo~,an: TI. Ii. TOWNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 175. In the Field, July 16, 1864. I. Brig. Gen. M. D. Leggett will have the advance to-morrow, and will move his command promptly at 4 a. m. on the road to Roswell Ferry. II. Brig. Gen. W. Q. Gresham, commanding Fourth Division, will hold his command in readiness to move at 430 a. in., and will follow immediately in rear of the Third Division. The trains of this command have been ordered to move at 2 a. in. on the road before indicated in advance of the troops. By command of 1\Iaj. Geim. Frank P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. EAST OF CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER, GA., July 17, 186410 p. m. (Received 11.20 a. m. 18th.) Maj. Geim. 11. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: To-day we have moved out from the Chattahoochee to Nancys Creek, General Thomas on the right from Paces Ferry, toward Atlanta; Gen- eral Schofield in the center, near Cross Keys, and General McPherson on the left near General Schofield. To-morrow I propose to advance General Thomas to Peach Tree Creek, about Buck Head; General Scho- field on the Decatur road, and General IMcPherson to the vicinity of the railroad east of Decatur, and his cavalry (livision, under Garrard, will break the railroad. If we can break the railroad I propose to place the left wing across it, near Decatur, and break up the railroad eastward as far as cavalry can operate with prudence. To-day we encounter nothing but cavalry. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 159 Cn& i~. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 159 IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MississiPPI, In the Field, Chattahoochee River, July 17, 1864. Major-General THOMAS: GENERAL: If YOU find it difficult to pass Pa,ces Ferry, move one of your corps now on this side up to General Howards, and, with the two corps, move out to the bridge at Kyles over Nancy~s Creek, leaving the other corps to cross at Paces, or to follow the first if unable to effect a crossing at Paces. All your army should be on Nancys Creek to-night. General Schofield and General McPherson moved at daylight. I am, & c., W. T. SHE1~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, Lot No. 165, our map, dtst of Chattahoochee River, July 17, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Army of the Cumberland: GENERAL: General Schofield has just been here aud describes his position as on Nancys Creek, his pickets on south side, near Cross Keys, about the lots 304, 315, and 316. General McPherson is on the road from Itoswell to Decatur, his advance about lot 326, about a mile above General Schofield. General Schofield says that the road represented on our maps as from Roswell to Buck Head is a broad, well traveled road and has a branch about lot No. 94, leading to Paces Ferry. This correspouds with what General Corse tells me, that you found a large road branching to the left soon after leaving Paces Ferry. It is well to mark this road, as it may be useful to us. General Howard can take a good road from here to Buck Head, starting at his present front and moving southeast to the main road from Itoswell to Buck Head, just before it crosses Nancys Creek. Approaching Buck Head from this quarter about the same time that Gen- crais Schofield and McPherson get to the Peach Tree from the east, ~vilI of course relieve any pressure you may encounter on the main road. General Schofield will move early for the Peach Tree road in front of Cross Keys, and take post about lots 239, 247, and 272, with pickets forward as far as 196, and General McPherson will seek for position in the valley of North Fork of Peach Tree, about 267, 266, 284, 285, and send General Garrard to break the road and telegraph. You should leave a corps in front of Donaldsons, and have the other two as early as possible at and in front of Buck Head. Then feel down strong to Peach Tree and see what is there. A vigorous demonstration should be made, and caution your commanders not to exhibit any of the signs of a halt or pause, as in that event too much resistance would be made on the other flank. You know the reasons for the utmost activity and I need not repeat them. Let all your commauders have full orders to-night, and before joining General Schofield in the morning I will point out to General Howard the road by which he can reach Buck Head in five miles from here. Give orders as soon as any head of col- mnn reaches Buck Head to feel up the Peach Tree road for General Schofield, who will surely be in position before your troops can be. I am, yours, truly, ~ T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 160 160 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 17, 18648 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: General Hooker has his troops posted on the intermediate road between Paces and Powers Ferry roads. General Palmer has John- son on the Paces Ferry road, and Davis on a road between that and the railroad bridge. All the troops occupy the ridge overlooking Nancys Creek, with their skirmishers bordering the creek. Baird is in reserve behind Davis. A rebel battery with its infantry support, which has been firing on McCooks battery, posted in the redoubt to the left of the railroad, cleared out from its position on Peach Tree Creek this p. m. and retired across the creek in direction of Atlanta. Suterineister has made excellent practice to-day, and will continue to fire at intervals through the night. I shall move my headquarters to-morrow to near Hooker, who will be in the center of my army. GEO. H. ThOMAS, Major- General. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, July 17, 18649 p. m. General THOMAS: Signal dispatch received. Schofield is on the road from Johnsons b3 Cross Keys. Palmer had better move straight for Kyles Bridge, and Hooker from Powers to the crossing above near Schofield; Howard in reserve. SHET~MAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Powers Ferry, Ga., July 17, 1864. Major-General STANLEY, First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you have every- thing in readiness to move at 5 a. m. to-morrow, but not to move until further orders are issued for this purpose. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Newton and Wood.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT O~ THE CUMBERLAND, Near Vinings Station, Ga., July 17, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. N. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you commence the execution of the orders of General Sherman (copies of which were sent you this evening) at daylight to-morrow a. m. I am, general, very respectftilly, your obedient servant, SOUTHAItD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to General Howard. Page 161 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 161 HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH A ni~r~ CORPS, Ia the Field, July 17, 18G11O.45 p. i. Brig. Gen. ~W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief 0/ ~taff: I have just received Special Field Orders, No. 3Q Military Division of the Mississippi, with accompanyn g memorandum, ai id department or- der to commence the execution of that order at daybreak. If I were able to snl)erinten(l the movements of my troops to-morrow in person I would probably need no explanation but as I fear I will not be, I beg such directions in regard to the movements of my divisions, md such information as to what is expected of Hooker and Howard, as will cii- able me to accomplish what is expected of me by orders from him, supervised by General Johnson. I may add that if it is intende to maintain the right of our line on the Chattahoochec River, Davis now substantially holds up to Peach Tree Creek, and it will bnt remain for me to push Johnson in connection with Davis over Nancys Creek to the ridge beyond. Very res~)ectful1y, JOHN M. 1~ALMER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Finings Station, Ga., July 17, 1364. (Received 9.30 a. in.) Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you this day cross the Chattahoochee River with the Twentieth Corps at Paces Ferry after the Fourteenth Corps has crossed. The Fourteenth Corps will, after crossing, be posted as follows: one division in column on the road leading from Paces Ferry to the bridge over Peach Tree Creek, the head of the column at the bridge; another division in column on the road from Paces Ferry to Buck Head, with the head of column at Kyles Bridge over Nancys Creek; the third division in reserve at the fork of the above-named roads. The Fourth Corps is in line in front of Powers Ferry, connecting on the left with the Twenty-third Corps. After crossing your corps the major- general commanding directs that you post your corps somewhe~e between the road from Paces Ferry to Kyles Bridge and the Fourth Corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WA. I). WIHPPEE, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS CHIEF OF CAVALRY, Near Finings Station, Ga., Jnly 17, iSGI. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCooK, Commanding First Cavalry Division: The general commanding directs inc to inform you that the brigade of JelL C. Davis division will be removed to-night or to-morrow ii It RYOL XXXYIII~ PT Page 162 162 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. morning at daylight, and you will have yonr command in readiness to take up their position with a view of supporting Captain Lillys and also Captain Sutermeisters battery. * * * * I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Aetin q A ssistant Adjutant- General. HDQRs. MILiTAIiY DIvIsIoN ov THE Mississippi, Howards Headquarters, July 17, 186412 m. General SCHOFIELD: DEAR GENERAL: Captain Bartlett is here. I have just sent back to my headquarters the draft of an order for to-morrow. Thomas will move to and beyond Buck Head. You to the Peach Tree Creek road where intersected by the road leading to Decatur. The position is on the ridge between Nancys and Little Peach Tree. McPherson to-morrow will move to a point about four miles to your left front, and send his cavalry to the railroad. Thomas is sending a COV~5 this way, using Howards bridge, and I will direct them to Nancys Creek on the direct road to Cross Keys, viz, lot 93. I suppose you to be on lot 36, with advance guard well down to the creek Nancy. I want McPherson to-night be- tween you and Buchanans. Yours, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 17, 1864. General SHERMAN: I send an orderly to show you the way to my headquarters. My troops are on the ridge between Island an(l Nancys Creeks, with ad- vance at Nancys. 1 hear McPhersons guns not far to my left. Respectfully, J. M. SCIIOFIELl), Major- General. JULY 17, 18644.45 p. in. General SHERMAN: I have just heard directly from McI~herson. He is at the crossing of Nancys Creek on the Decatur road, one mile from Cross Keys and only a mile from my left. I expect you here al)ollt supper time. If you do not come I will call at your headquarters this evening. Respectfully, J. M. SCIJOFIELI), Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Chattahoochee 1?irer, July 17, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army ~z~f the Ohio: GENERAL: Your note to the general-in-chief of 4.45 p. m. is just to hand. He had dropped a note byan orderly from you that he had a Page 163 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 163 ready gone into camp, or else he would have bivouacked near you; he is waiting, momentarily expecting to hear from General Thomas oper- ations at Paces, arid will be happy to see you here. I am, general, with much regard, yours, respectfully, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-do- Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 17, 18644.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. M. S. HAScALL, Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: I fin General Cox and you are so far apart that it is not worth while for you to try to connect your pickets. The distance is from three to four miles. I presume the same is true with reference to General Thomas. Make your position strong, and rely on yourself. To-morrow we move through Cross Keys toward Decatur. The road Cox is on leads directly to Cross Keys; yours to Atlanta. There niay be an old road leading from your position to or near Cross Keys or Decatur, leaving Buck Head to your right. Find such a road, if possi- ble, and let me know all about it. We march at ~ a. in. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, I]Iajo - General, Corn mending. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Ishams, Ga., July 17, 18646.30 a. ni. Colonel CRITTENDEN, Comnwnding Brigade: Sin: You will move your brigade at 9 oclock this morning to the position indicated to you a few days ago, on the bill covering the bridge on this side. You will strongly intrencli a position for the brigade, so that it may be prepared thr.any raid of the eneriiys cavalry whether on this or the other side of the river. Rifle-pits will be dug in the bottom lands on both sides of the river, so as to protect the immediate heads of the bridge by detachments, and the most thorough means will be takeit by you to guard the bridge itself, and the trains which may be parked near it. A battery of artillery will be put in 1)ositiOIl with you i)y Major Wells, chief of artillery, and will then be under your orders till further (lirections. lf it is found necessary to occupy more than one of the hills, each position will be carefully intrenched, a~iitl the geli- cral position will be held at all hazards. J. I). COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. TIURD DIVISION, TWENTY-ThIRD ARMY Conps, Thomasons, July 17, 186111.20 a. in. Col. J. W. REILLY, Commanding First B igade: Sin: Your dispatch received. Keep the bulk of your brigade on commanding ground, covering the forks where you now are, and make reconnaissance with smaller force upon each fork. It cani~ot be mor Page 164 164 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. than half a mile in vonr front where the Roswell Factory road comes in on the left, by which road General McPhersons force, or part of it, may be expected. A road runs off to the right a mile front here, near Wades house, following the ridge down between Island and Nancys Creeks. Some rebel cavalry are on this road, which is a iiierc cross- road. Report any information you may get, either as to roads or the enemy. I have not yet received definite orders as to the posjtion the division shall assume. Do not display more force than is necessary. J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Comnwndiag. IIDQRS. THIRD Divisiox, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY Con~s, Thoma8ons, July 17, 1861 11.30 a. ni. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: Colonel Reilly is abont one mile and a half in front at the forks of the Atlanta and Cross Keys roads. The former leads along the ridge between Island and Nancys Creeks, aiid unites with the one you are moving ilascall on at Il3urdetts, about three miles from Sandy Creek Camp-Ground, and a little more from Reilly. The road Cameron moved ont on is only a plantation road. Some cavalry of the enemy are in Reillys front on both roads, and some are seen in front of Cain- eron also. I have halted Reilly, ordering him to send smaller recon- naissances on both roads before him. The Roswell road conies in about a mile in front of him, but the best Roswell road is said to be that which comes in here. The triangle of roads from Burdetts is about two miles base on this road, three miles on your road, and three and a half or four from Reilly. This information is from a citizen here, who seems honest. No news of 1~IcPherson. Yery respectfully, & c., J. D. COX, Brigadier- General. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVIsION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY Conps, Junction of Atlanta and Cross Keys Roads, July 17, 18646 p. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: Our skirmishers have occupied the ridge on the other side of Nancys Creek, as have General Dodge~s also, connecting with ours. I have ordered Reilly to support the skirmishers with a regiment and hold the rest of his brigade in reserve on this side, near the creek. The other two brigades I have stationed as I mentioned to you. An officer of General ilascalls staff caine over from him and informed me that his position is where you left it, near the Paces Ferry road, which he says runs into this Atlanta road, making the whole distance two miles and a half I have ordered a regiment of iByrds command to go out a mnile and have a scouting party connect with General 1-lascall. My headquarters are a little beyond the forks on the left of the road. Very respectfully, & c., J.D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 165 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNJON. 1(35 JULY 17, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: GENERAL: General McPherson with one corps is at the crossing of Nancys Creek on the Decatur road, one mile from Cross Keys. His right is not more thaii a nile from Reillys left. I am, very respectfully, W1\I. J. TWINING, Lieutenant of Engineers. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In the Field, July 17, 18647.30 p. rn. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith a sketch* of my posi- together with a report from Brig. Gem K. Garrard, giving the posi- troops and his operations for to-day. We have met nothing bntYavalry, and few of them, except in front of Dodge on the Atlanta and lloswell road, where Dibrells brigade, with one or two pieces of artillery, was posted to check an advance across Nancys Creek. They gave way, however, very easily when Dodges infantry and artillery came up to the support of the Ninth Illinois, mounted, Lieutenant-Col- onel Phillips commanding, and we had no difficulty in pushing our skir- mishers across the creek and onto the opposite ridge. They had all the main roads, by-roads, lanes, and paths picketed, and in many cases it looks as though it was more to prevent their own men from escaping than to give notice of our advance. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, ]LIajor- General. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, July 17, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOC-AN, Commanding Fifteenth Corps: GENERAL: I am in camp about a mile on the left of your line. I left Colonel Long with two regiments of his brigade at the bridge to picket the Stone Mountain and the Pinekney road, and to guard the bridge. Colonel Mintys left rests near Buchanans, and the Peach Tree road, and all roads leading from the Peach Tree road toward the river on the left are picketed. Patrols have been ont well to the front, and find but few rebels, and most of their tracks lead toward Atlanta or Buck Head. I learn since being here that there are two Cross Keys. The one on the maps is the old one, where there was a I)ost-offlce some years since, but the name and the post-office were transferred to the present position, some four miles to the east. This will account for the fact that both you and I are so near Cross Keys. We are some four or five miles east of the point laid down on the map as Cross Keys, and about where we were ordered. Buchanans is only one house. Please send this to Gen- eral McPherson. My headquarters are on a road leading out from your left, or about half a mile in front of a road leading just behind your line, near the house of a Mr. Chester. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. * Not found Page 166 1643 TIlE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ECHAP. L HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH Am~iy Coups, Near Cross Keys, Ga., July 17, iSGI. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant A djutant- General COLONEL: A prisoner ~ho voluntarily delivered himself np reports that Kellys division of cavalry, about 4,000 strong, three l)rigades, is in the front on the road which is covered by nYy command, and on this side of Peach Tree Creek, and that iBates division of infantry is on the other side of Peach Tree Creek, oii same road. Also that Martins division of cavalry is on the road in front of Dodge; also that A. J. Smith had a fight with Forrest at Tupelo; no result givem Received telegram yesterday. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General Commanding. POWERS FERRY, GA., July 17, 18649 p. m. (Received 11.45 p. in.) Maj. T. T. ECKERT: General Shermans headquarters is now two miles from here, on Nancys Creek. The whole of the three armies will have crossed (That- tahoochee before morning. The Twentieth Corps and the Seventeenth Corps are now crossing, the Seventeenth at Roswell and the Twen- tieth at Paces Ferry. Some skirmishing, but no serious resistance. McPherson is ten miles from iRoswell, in direction of Stone Mountain. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MISS., No. 3(3. 5 In the Field, (Jhattahiooehee, July 17, 1864. The operations of ihe army for to-morrow, the 18th July, will be as follows: I. Majoi -General Thomas will move forward, ocenpy il3uck head and the ridge between Nancys Creek an(l Peach Tree, also all the roads toward Atlanta, as far as Peach Tree Creek. 11. Major-General Schofield will pass through Cross Keys and occupy the Peach Tree road where intersected by the rOa(l from Cross Keys to I )ecatnr. IlL Major-General MclTherson will move toward Stone Mountain to secure strong ground within foin miles of General Schofields position, and push 1iriga(iier-General Garrards cavalry to the railroad, and (h stroy some section of the road, and then resume position to the front and left of General McPherson. I V. All armies will comnumunicate with their neighbors. The general- in-chief will be imear General rfboi11~ms~ left, or near General Schofield. 13y order of Maj. U en. W. T. Sherman: L. M. 1)AYTON, Aide-dc- Camp Page 167 CH~. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 167 JULY 17, 1864. Memoranda to Special Field Orders, No. 36: The map composed of two parts of the official compilation made at Marietta July 5 and 11, 1864, is the best and will be the standard for orders issued from these headquarters. A s a general rule, old roads will be found to lead to IDe- catur, but new roads to Atlanta. The general country is very hilly and stony, but improves south and east as we approach the head of the Ocmulgee. Peach Tree Creek is coisiderable of a stream, but ford- able at all points east of the main road from Buck Head to Atlauta~ The first real lines to be found will be on the Old Peach Tree road, which starts at Turners Ferry, keeps near the Chattahoochee, crosses Peach Tree at Moores Mill and on a main ridge by Buck head, Bu~ chanans and Piuckneyville. Our first line must be in front of this road, leaving it clear for communication General Thomas the right, General Schofield the center, and General McPherson the left. Gen- eral Thomas will move substaiitially on Atlanta, General Schofield on i)ecatur, and General McPherson, with General Garrards cavalry, is charged with the destruction of the railroad between Decatur and Stone Mountain. As soon as the road is broken all the armies will close on General Thomas, occupying the main roads east of Atlanta, or, in other words, the line swung across the railroad near Decatur. Gen- eral Thomas will press close on Atlanta but not assault real works, but not be deterred by cavalry or light defenses. General Schofield will threaten the neighborhood of Decatur, but Generals McPherson and Garrard will risk much and break the railroad during the 18th or 19th. W. T. SHEPMAN, Major- General, Comma ding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near ITinings Station, Ga., Judy 17, 1864. Order of the day for July 18, 1864. In executing Special Field Orders, No. 36, from headquarters Mili. tary Division of the Mississippi, the following will be the operations of the Arnuy of the Cumberland to-morrow: The movements will be comnnienced by the Fourth Corps, Major-Gen- Twentieth, Major-General Hookers corps, eral Howard, and who will each seek a road leading from his present position to Buck head and march upon it to that point, the former forniing to the left and the lat- ter to the right of it along the Turners Ferry and Buck Head road. Brigadier-General Johnsons division, Fourteenth Corps, will follow the movements of Major-General Hooker, keeping his skirmishers con- nected with those of Major-General hooker and forming on his right. The divisions of Brigadier-Generals Davis and Baird will maintain sub- stantially their present positions, the former keeping his skirmishers connected with those of General Johnson. The Fourth and Twentieth Corps will move at daylight, and the ob- Ject is to gain possession of the ridge along which the Turners Ferry and Buck Head road runs, forni in front of it, and threaten Atlanta by the roads leading from it to that place; Major-General Palmers corps on the right, Major-General Hookers in the center, and Major-General Howards on the left. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 168 168 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP L. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQIRS. DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 70. } Near Nancys Greek, & ~a., July 17, 1864. * * * * * * * VI. To carry out Special Field Orders, No. 36, headquarters Military Divisiou of the Mississippi, a copy of which is inclosed herewith, * the following movements will take place to-morrow: 1. The Fifteenth Army Corps, Major-General Logau commanding, will march at 5 a. in., on the Decatur road to Widow llaiueys, thence on the Stone Mountain road, by Blakes Mill, to Brownings Court- House, at the intersection of the Stone Mountain and Lawrenceville and Decatur roads, where he will hold his command iii readiness to assist Brigadier-General Garrard, if he requires it, in his effort to make a break in the railroad. 2. Major-General Dodge will move his command at 6 a. in., taking the road to his left in rear of his advance divisiomi, by Adams across Nancys Creek to the Peach Tree road, thence eastward on the Peach Tree road to the Decatur road from iRoswell thence Decatur road toward Peach Tree Creek, engaging the attention of the enemy, and keeping his coin mnand well in hand for any emergency. 3. Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair will move his command at 6 a. in. on the Decatur road to Widow Raineys, thence on the Stone Mountain road to Peach Tree Creek at Blakes Mill, following the Fifteenth Army Corps. 4. ThXig. Gen. K. Garrard will move his command at 5 a. in. by the most practicable road or roads in his front to the railroad, and do what damage he can to it by burning bridges and culverts, piling rails on the track and setting them on fire so as to heat and warp the iron, teai - ing up the ties, piling them up, putting the iron rails on top, and setting the ties on tire. 5. The importance of making a break in the railro~ d cannot be over- estimated, and the general commanding trusts that all will act with that spirit and determination which is the best guarantee of success. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQR s. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 55. Near Gross Keys, Ga., July 17, 1864. I. The Fifteenth Army Corps will move forwar at 5 a. in. to-morrow on the Decatur roa to Widow Raineys; thence on the Stone i ountain road by Blakes Mill to Bowmans [Brownings] Court-House, at the in- tersection of the Stone Mountain aiid Lawrenceville and Decatur roads, where it will be held in readiness to assist General Garrard, if he re- quires it, in his effort to 1nake a break on the railroad. II. Brigadier-General Woods division will have the advance amid be followed bythe divisions of Brig. Gens. M. L. Smith and William Harrow, respectively. III. The ordnance and ambulance train of each division will follow in the rear of their respective divisions, and the Fifteenth Army Corps head- quarters traimi will follow imi the rear of the Second Division ordnance and ambulance train. All other wagons will follow in the rear of the troops in the order of march. * See 1~- 166 Page 169 CHAP. U CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 169 IV. Brigadier-General Harrow will cause one brigade to march in rear of the entire train as rear guard. V. Division commanders will not permit straggling from the ranks on aity account. By order of Maj. Gem John A. Logan: It. It. TOWNES, A8sistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY Conps, No. 176. In the Field, July 17, 1864. * * * * * * * III. Brig. Gen. W. Q. Gresham, commanding Fourth Division, will have the advance to-morrow, and will move his command promptly at 6 a. m. on the Decatur road to Widow Itaineys; thence on the Stone Mountain road to Peach Tree Creek at Blakes Mill, following the Fif- teenth Army Corps. By command of Maj. Gen. Frank P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDEIt, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Major-General SHERMAN, Wa8hington, July 18, 186411.25 a. m. Chattahoochee River, Ga.: I have seen your dispatches objecting to agents of Northern States opening recruiting stations near your camps. An act of Congress au- thorizes this, giving the appointmQnt of agents to the States, and not to the Executive Government. It is not for the War Department, or myself, to restrain or modify the law, in its execution, farther than actual necessity may require. To be candid, I was for the passage of the law, not apprehending at the time that it would produce such inconvenience to the armies in the field as you now cause me to fear. Many of the States were very anxious for it, and I hoped that, with their State bounties, and active exertions, they would get out substantial additions to our colored forces, which, unlike white recruits, help us where they come from, as well as where they go to. I still hope advantage from the law; and being a law, it must be treated as such by all of us. We here will do what we consistently can to save you from difficulties aris- ing out of it. May I ask, therefore, that you will give your hearty co- operation. A. LINCOLN. NEAR CROSS KEYS, GA., July 18, 18647 p. m. (Iteceived 10.45 a. m. 19th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: We moved to-day rapidly and General McPherson reached the At- lanta and Augusta road at a l)Oint seven miles east of Decatur and four miles from Stone Mountain. General Garrards cavalry at once set to work to break up road and was re-enforced by Brig. Gen. Morgan L Page 170 170 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Smiths division of infantry, and they expect by night to have five miles of road effeetnally destroyed. Thns far we have enconntered only cav- alry with light resistance, and to-morrow will move on Decatnr and At- larita. T am fully aware of the necessity of making the most of time and shall keep things moving. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jliajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, east of Chattahoochee river, July 18, 18G4G a. m. General THOMAS: GENERAL: I have this moment yonr letter of 8 p. m. last night. I would like you to get to Buck Head early to-day and then to feel down strong on Atlanta. General Howard has already started and Generals Schofield and McPherson; I am on the point of starting and will be iiear General Schofield about the Cross Keys. Establish communication by courier along up to me as soon as you know any troops are in that vicinity. I may order General McPherson off on a tangent if I have anything that justifies it. I want that railroad as quick as possible and the weather seems to inc too good to be wasted. Yours W. T. ShERMAN, Major-Y~eneral, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field at #S~am. Houses, Peach Tree road, Five miles ~sortheast of Buck Head, Ga., July 18, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Buck Head, Ga.: GENERAL: I have reports from General McPherson to 2 p. in. He had reached the railroad at a point two miles from Stone Monntain and seven miles from Decatur; had broken the telegraphs and road, an(l by ~ p. in. will have four or five miles broken. To-morrow I want a bold push for Atlanta and have made my orders, which, I think, will put us in Atlanta or very close to it. Ibid about Howells Mill and the main road and let your left swing across Peach Tree abont the South Fork and connect with Schofield, who will approach Decatur from the north, whilst McPherson moves down from the east. It is hard to realize that Johnston will give up Atlanta without a fight, but it may be so. Let us (levelop the truth. Yours, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Co manding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 18, 18612.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: General Palmers corps occupies the Turners Ferry and Decatur road, and he is pushing his skirmishers down to Peach Tree Creek. General Hookers corps is on General Palmers left, also in front of the Turners Ferry and Decatur road. General Howard occupie Page 171 CHAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 171 Buck Head. Both Generals Hooker and Howard will push their skir- mishers down toward Peach Tree Creek in the direction of Atlanta. General Palmer was somewhat delayed because the enemy destroyed all the bridges across Nancys Creek, but he has been threatening and advancing continually, so that yonr orders have been carried out. Prisoners taken this morning report that the main body of the enemy retired last night in some hurry, as they understood, because it was reported we were crossing the river below. Very respectfully, yours, & c., GEG. H. THOMAS, iilajor-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS I)EPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 18, 18647.50 p. m. GENERAL: This dispatch was forwarded to you this p. m. at 2.15 oclock, but the orderly has just returned after going as far as General Schofields left without being able to hear anything as to your where- abouts. I start it out again in hopes it will reach you. Respectfully, your obedient servant, IROBT. H. RAMSEY, Assistant A0atant- General. YJNLN& S SrnNAL STATION, July 18, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: Prepare to move at daylight. Will send orders by courier. WM. P WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Buck Head Ga., July 18, 18647 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Stafl~: GENERAL: Ncwton left camp 4.30 oclock this morning, followed by the other divisions. Just as skirmishers emerged from the pine woods, before reaching Nancys Creek, the rebels opened with artillery, which seemed to be a section supported by cavalry. They occupied a good elcvated Dosition across the creek, l]avinh burned the bridge. On this account they were able to hold us in check some little time. They gave way as soon as we got our artillery into a good position. We extin- guished the fire, saved a portion of the bridge, and reconstructed it. i)uring the rest of the march to this place the rebel cavalry made quite stubborn resistance. It was a Kentucky brigade under Williams. At one place regular barricades were constructed of logs and covered with boughs. When our men approached to within 150 yards they received a volley, but in this case as in several others the skirumishers cheered and charged them out. We have had 5 men wounded; none reported killcd. Two officers fell into our hands 1 a lieutenant-colonel, killed, and a captain, severely wounded. I po~ted my command as directed, in advance of the ~ Ferry road along the main ridge, all but one brigade, which was posted on the left of the Roswell Factory and Atlanta road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major-General, Commanding Page 172 1 7) THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. Ih HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Paces Ferry, Ga., July 18, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that at daylight to-morrow morning you send a division npou the main road leading from yonr front to Atlanta. Keep the head of the column covered by a strong line of skirmishers, press the enemy strongly, and be prepared to re-enforce the division should it become necessary. Major-Generals Ilooker and Howard will also be instructed to send each a division in the same direction at the same time from their fronts respectively. 1 am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. ft WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff. (Similar to Generals Howard and Hooker.) P. 5.Brigadier-General Johnsons communication forwarded by you just received. The major-general commanding directs that you cross Peach Tree Creek if you can do it with one division, and push the enemy along as far as you can. W. D. W. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FOURTEENTH CORPS, July 18, 1864. Capt. A. C. MCCLURG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fourteenth Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the ma- jor-general commanding, that my skirmishers are more than one-half of the hue on Peach Tree Creek. From near the right of Colonel Mc- Cooks line (which is the left bPgade) the line is slightly refused, but within a few yards of the creek and commanding it at all points. At Howells Mill there seems to be a small force of skirmishers; they fire pretty sharply at MeCooks men. The bridge is destroyed; creek deep with very abrupt and high banks; cannot be crossed so thr as is re- ported, except by bridging. No infantry has been developed as yet, thought the miller at howells Mill says they have infantry on the oppo- site bank of the creek. The ridge on the other side is not very high, nor apparently very difficult of ascent, in front of Moores line; in some places open field; in front of McCooks heavy woods. Some of Moores skirmishers report works. Slight skirmishing is going on all along the line. My men are intrenching on the skirmish line and my main line is being made very strong. There is an interval between my line and that of General Hooker. I have a regiment on the Buck head road, between the two as an outpost. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, It. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. [Iiidorsemcnt.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, fitly 18, 18648.30 p. m. This paper received this moment, and respectfully forwarded as hav- ing probably an important influence upon the plans of the general commanding for to-morrow Page 173 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 173 T think it may be safely assumed that the enemy has crossed Peach Tree Creek, though occasional shots are heard on my extreme left, or on General Hookers line. JOI-IN M. PALME1~, Jllajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, Near Buck Head, July 18, 18648 p. m. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Commandin,q Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: General Thomas desires that you make a reconnaissance to-morrow morning toward Atlanta with your whole division. The major-genemal commanding the corps directs that unless you should re- ceive the orders before that time, you move at an early hour during the cool of the morning, takilig with you one battery, and upon the direct Atlanta road, through the camps of General Johnson. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. C. McCLUTIG, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OP THE CUMBERLAND, Near Paces Perry, July 18, 186410 p. m. Brigadier-General ELLIOTT, Chief of Cavalry, & c.: GENERAL: The following dispatch has just been received from Major-General Stoneman, which the general commanding directs me to Communicate to you, with instructions that General McCooks cav- alry be on the alert: JULY 18, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding, 4~c.: Two parties of rebels, one of ten, the other of about twenty-five, are known to have crossed the river between Turners Ferry and the railroad bridge. How many more parties have crossed is not known. Prisoners have been taken by my men from one of the parties, and the other was seen. The rebels have two flat-boats at the point of crossing. The district through which the parties passed back into the country is supposed to be under the control of General Elliotts cavalry. Respectfully, GEORGE STONEMAN, Major- General. I am, general, yours, very respectfully, HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY COMMAND, July 18, 186410 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS: GENERAL: Colonel Adams, commanding brigade guarding the river near the mouth of Sweet Water, has just reported to me that the enemy are crossing the river in force above the mouth of the creek, with what object or intent has not yet transpired. Yery respectfully, your obedient servaimt, GEORGE STONEMAN, Major- General Page 174 174 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 19, 186410 a. m. Respectfully forwarded to Major-General Sherman for his information. This was received about tell minutes since. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. FIRST CAY. Div., DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Railroad Bridge, July 18, 1864. Lient. D. F. How, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that it was impossible for me to encamp one brigade at the place selected at Paces Ferry, because the roads were crowded with and all places where there was water occupied by wagon trains. I have encamped both brigades in the vicinity of the fort, and am [on] the Paces Ferry road and picketing the river. Our infantry skirmishers are near the creek on the other bank, but the rebel sharpshooters are still on the abutments and on the bank below. I will put in rifle-pits to-night and try to move them out to-morrow. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, E. M. MoCOOK, Brigadier- General. I discovered the rebels working on a new work this afternoon. It is below Sutermeisters, and will enfilade him. I told him to cut the trees away and open on it in the morning. E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. FIRST BRiGADE, FIRST CAvALRY DIvisIoN, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 18, 1864. Captain LE Roy, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division: TIme scouting party ordered to Turners Ferry has just returned. ~ found a strong picket-line on opposite side of the Chattahoochee, evi- dently cavalry, which scent to have recently taken their present posP tion. The earth-work about one mile and a half from Fort McCook is constructed for six guns. No guns visible. No boat of any description found upon the river. No party of the enemy has crossed the river except six or eight footmen belommging to Cheathamns division, of whom 2 were captured by Major Carter, in commnau(l of (lismoumited cavalry, at Turners Ferry, and from which probably originated time report that the enemy had crossed between the mouth of Peach Tree Creek and Turners Ferry. Major Carter has 500 dismounted cavalry at Turners Ferry, and pickets time river from tlmat point to the mouth of Kickajack. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. DORR, Colonel, Commandin9 Page 175 CUM?. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 175 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Gino, In the Field, Ga., July 18, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Corndg. Third Dii~ision, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Ii have tlie honor to inclose herewith Special Field Orders, No. 37, current series, Military Division of the Mississippi.* The com- manding general directs that the Twenty-third Corps move at 5 a. m. to-morrow, in accordance with the within order, General Hascall in advance. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, ~Year Nancys Creek, July 18, 18614.30 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD Commanding Army 4f the Ohio: GENERAL: In order to carry out the instructions of Major-General Sherman for to-day, I shall have to move General Dodge, who is nearest you, and in fact my whole command, to the east and south, which will widen the space between us. General Dodge commences his movement at 6 a. in., and will move to the left on this side of Nancys Creek about one mile and a quarter from his present position, cross the creek and strike into the Peach Tree road about two and a half or three miles from where you strike it, passing through Cross Keys. Yours, truly, JAS. B. MCPHERSON, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, on Peach Tree Road, July 18, 186412 m. General MCPHERSON: I am at Sam. Houses, a brick house well known, and near Old Cross Keys. A sick negro, the only human being left on the premises, says we are eleven miles from Atlanta, five from Buck Head, and a sign board says teii miles to McAfees Bridge and eleven to Roswell Factory. At this place the main Buck Head and Atlanta road is strongly marked and forks, the right-hand looking north going to McAfees, and the left to Roswell Factory. This left-hand road forks one mile from here, at Old Cross Keys, the main road going to lioswell and left- hand to Johnsons Ferry. The latter is the road traveled by us. I suppose all of Thomas troops are at Buck head, with advance guard down to Peach Tree Creek. I think I will move Schofield one mile and a half toward Buck Head, where the negro represents a road to l)ecatur and forward on that road a mile or so. I think Sam. 1-louses is not far from the northwest corner of lot 273, and if I move him as contem- plated he will be to-night about 202, 203. On our map a road conies froni the direction of McAfees toward Decatur, and if you can find posi- tion about 192, 191 it would best fulfill my purpose, but be careful to order Garrard to break the road to-day or to-night and report result. See p. 179 Page 176 [CHAP L. 176 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. I will stay here or down at the forks of the road to-night. Schofield enconntered nothing bnt cavalry, abont 500, according to the negros report, and all retreated toward Atlanta. Tell Garrard that it will be much easier to break the telegraph and road to-day and night than if lie waits longer. This negro says there is a road leading to Stone Mountain from a Mr. Livelys, on the Decatur road, on which I suppose you to be. At any rate I will be here till evening and would like to hear from you. Yours, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Blakes ]JIill, Ga., July 18, 18G49.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. W T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Dirision of the Mississippi: GENERAL: Inclosed please find sketch of my position to-night and copy of Special Field Orders, No. 70, paragraph VI, from these head- quarters. t In pursuance of this order, the different commands were in motion promptly at the hour designated, the Seventeenth Corps closing up on the Fifteenth, and the Fifteenth and Sixteenth coming together by heads of column at the Widow Raineys, and the infantry (Fifteenth Corps) reaching a point about one mile from Bramans [Brownings] Court-House just as the last brigade of the cavalry was passing. The cavalry nuder Bri~adier-General Garrard pushed on and struck the railroad, and five regiments were set to work to destroy it. A brigade of infantry (Lightburns), of Morgan L. Smiths division, was also sent down, and the two forces together thoroughly destroyed over three miles of track, upsetting the ties, breaking the iron loose, piling up the ties, putting the iron on top, and setting fire to the pile. The whole of the Fifteenth Corps was marched to the immediate vicinity of Bra- mans [Brownings] Court-House, the Sixteenth to the point indicated on the map, and the Seventeenth to Blakes Mill, to be used as a reserve to re-enforce either flank in case the enemy advanced or was found in strong force. There being no water in the vicinity of Bra man5 Court-House before dark, the brigade re [Brownings] just after turned from the railroad, the Fifteenth Corps marched to Hendersons Mill and went into camp. There is no telegraph line along the railroad. During our operations we saw no indications of any heavy force of the enemy; nothing but cavalry, which fell back and disappeared readily on our approach. Inclosed please find copy of reportjust received from General Garrard.j Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Hendersons Mill, Ga., July 18, 1864. Col. W. T. CLARK, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Army and Department of the Tennessee: SIR: In obedience to Special Field Orders, No. 70, I moved with my command this morning at 5 oclock from Nancys Creek, near Cross *Not found. t See p. 168. See Part II, p. 508 Page 177 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 177 Keys, to the intersection of the Stone Mountain and Lawrenceville roads for the purpose of assisting Brigadier-General Garrard to break the railroad, if he should need assistance. When the head of my col- unrn reached the road leading from McAfees Bridge to Brownings Court-House, General Garrard had just arrived, moving in the direction of the railroad, some four miles distant. After his column passed, at tbe suggestion of the general commanding, I moved down within two miles of the railroad; then, as directed, sent one brigade of infantry, com- manded by Brigadier-General Lightburn, to the railroad. He reports to me that he effectually destroyed some two miles of rail and ties of the road to within a short distance of Stone Mountain, burning water- tank, wood, & c. During the time that General Garrard and General Lightburn were destroying the road in an easterly direction, Major Hotaling, of my staff, in charge of fifty mounted men, in ade up of the Eighth Indiana and my escort company, moved on the main De- catur road to within three miles of Decatur, destroying two culverts and some small portion of the railroad track. In the march to and from the railroad to my present position no resistance was met anywhere that I could hear of. One prisoner was captured. He was quite un- well.- I think quite a number would have been captured if we had found them, and all been in the same condition as this one. The loss in the whole command, so far as I can learn, is 1 horse with pains in his belly from eating green corn. Respectfully, JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WJNG~ SIXTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, In the Field, near Peach Tree Greek, Ga., July 18, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. B. MCPHERSON, Comdg. Department and Army of the Tennessee, in Field, Ga.: GENERAL: Scout in from Atlanta. He left there this morning. Says the enemy were moving troops all night last night there; all the wagon trains were started off on the Augusta road; that Bates division moved up on Peach Tree road and is intrenched on south side of that creek near Howells Bridge; that the bridge is ready to be burned. He also reports one brigade of dismounted cavalry at Buck Head, prepared to contest our advance. This morning Bates division was the extreme right of Johnstons infantry, and Kellys division of cavalry on north side of Little Peach Tree between me arid Buck Head. This agrees with re- port of rebel lieutenant captured by me this morning. This scout says it is the general talk that if Atlanta falls Polks corps will go west toward West Point, while the remnainder of Johnstons army will go toward Augusta or Macon. On yesterdAy Hood had the left, I~olk [Stewart] the center, and Hardee the right, the militia on the left. Johnston has received no re-enforcenients up to to-day. The enemy are at work on their forts and intrenchments around Atlanta. Dispatches from Richmond report their forces shelling Washington. Atlanta papers up to the 17th instant have nothing of interest in them. One editorial speculation on Shermans probable movement thinks he may possibly move on Stone Mountain to force the evacuation of At. lanta. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major. General. 12 R RYOL XXXYJIJ~ PT Page 178 178 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. JULY 18, 186410.30 a. m. Captain CASE: See heavy column of dust on the roads converging beyond Kyles Bridge; also at or near Howells Bridge. Troops (if dust is caused by them) are moving in a large body toward Kyles Bridge and Stone Mouiitain, apparently five miles from this point. Yours, respectfully, SAM. F. REBER, Captain and Acting AS~ignal Officer. Estimated strength of Hoods army. hARDERS CORPS. First Division, Cheathams: Maneys brigade Strahis brigade Wrinhts brigade vaughans brigade Second Division, Cleburnes: Polks brigade Govans brigade Lowreys brigade Granburys brigade 1, 200 1, 000 1, 400 1, 200 1, 000 1, 200 1, 500 1, 200 Third Division, Walkers: Mereers brigade 2, 000 Stevens brigade 1, .500 Jacksons brigade 1, 000 Gists brigade 1, 200 Fourth Division, Bates: Lewis brigade 700 Finleys brigade 1, 000 Tylers brigade 1, 300 IIOOJ~5 CORPS. First Division, Tlindmans: Deas brigade Manigaults brigade Tuckers brigade Walthalls brigade Second Division, Stevensons: Cummings brigade Browns brigade Bakers brigade Reynolds brigade Third Division, Stewarts: Gibsons brigade Stovalls brigade Claytons brigade Moores brigade 1, 200 1,200 i,000 1, 200 1,500 800 1, 000 1, 200 800 1, 200 1, 500 1, 000 4, 800 4,900 5, 700 3, 000 15, 400 4, 600 4,500 4,500 13, 600 Memorandum found by Union forces in ais 01(1 camp July 18, 1864, and filed with records of the Army of the Cuinberlaud Page 179 CnAi~ L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.dJNION. 179 STEWARTS CORPS. First Division, Lorings: Featherstons brigade 1, 500 Adams brigade 1, 500 Scotts brigade 1, 200 4,200 Second Division, Frenclis: Cockrells brigade 2, 000 McNairs brigade 1, 000 Sears brigade 1, 200 4,200 Third Division, Waithalls: Canteys brigade 2, 000 000 Ectors brigade 000 Quarles brigade 4,000 12, 400 Hardee 18,400 Hood 13, 600 Stewart 12, 400 44,400 CAMP, Near Paces Ferry, July 18, 18648.30 p. rn. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: (IReceived 11 p. in.) Army pressed forward to-day from two to five miles, and now the line rests its right on Chattahoochee, between Paces Ferry and Tur- ncrs Ferry, extends to Peach Tree Creek, and along it half ~ mile, and thence is deflected toward the tortheast thi ongh Buck Head; General Thomas on right, Schofield in center and McPherson on left. No enemy encountered except cavalry and artillery. Slight resistance. J. C. FAN DUZETh SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Gross Keys, ~1a., No. 37. ) July 18, 1864. The movements of the army to-morrow, July 19, will be as follows: 1. Major-General Thomas will press down from the north on Atlanta, holding in strength the line of Peach Tree, but crossing and threaten- ing the enemy at all accessible points to hold him there, and also tak- ing advantage of any ground- gained, especially on the extreme right. II. Major-General Schofield will move direct on Decatur and gain a footing on the railroad, holding it, and breaking the railroad and tele- graph wire. Ill. Major-General McPherson will move along the railroad toward Decatur and break the telegraph wires and the railroad. In case of the sounds of serious battle he will close in on General Schofield, but otherwise will keep every man of his command at work in (lestroying the railroad by tearing up track, burning the ties and iron, and twisting the bars when hot. Officers should be instructed thatbars simply bent may be used again, but if when red hot they are twisted out of line they cannot be used again. Pile the ties into shape for a bonfire, put the rails across, and when red hot in the middle, letaman at each end twist the bar so that its surface become spiral. General McPherson will dispatch General Garrards cavalry eastward along the line of the rail- road to continue the destruction as far as deemed prudent Page 180 180 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IV. All the troops should be in motion at 5 a. in., and should not lose a moments time until night, when the lines should be closed on General Schofield about Pea Vine and Decatur. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. GENERAL ORDERS, IIPQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, - No. 99. Near Paces Ferry, Ga., July 18, 1864. I. The batteries in each army corps of the Army of the Cumberland will in future constitute a separate command under the corps chief of artillery, subject to the. direction of the corps commander and the department chief of artillery. In action or when preparing for action they will be placed in such positions as the corps chief of artillery, with the approval of the corps commander and department chief of artillery, shall select. II. Officers now acting as chiefs of artillery of divisions, whose bat- teries are not serving with the army in the field, will report to their corps chiefs of artillery as their assistants. Those whose batteries are so serving will rejoin them. III. The issuing quartermaster and commissary of snbsistence at army corps headquarters shall supply the batteries of the corps artil- lery with quartermaster and subsistence stores. IV. When troops are temporarily detached from any army corps they shall be accompanied by an amount of artillery proportionate to their number and it shall be the duty of the issuing quartermaster and commissary of subsistence of the command detached to keep this artil- lery supplied with quartermaster and subsistence stores until it rejoins its own corps. V. The chief of ordnance of the department will recommend an offi- cer to act as ordnance officer. for the artillery of each corps. VI. Corps commanders will detail a sufficient infantry force as guards to the artillery trains. VII. The medical director of the corps wili assign a sufficient num- ber of medical officers with the corps artillery, whose duties will be exclusively with that command. - VIII. All wagons belonging to the batteries, excepting three to each, and the wagons of the division ordnance trains, now used to carry artillery ammunition, will be turned over to the issuing quartermaster at corps headquarters. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOLTRTII ARMY CORPS, Powers Perry, Chattahoochee rirer, Ga., July 18, 18641 a. in. Orders of the day for the Fourth Army Corps: The corps will move forward to-day, starting at 5 a. in. General New- tons division will lead, followed by Major-General Stanleys division, and then General Woods. General Newton will direct his march on Buck Head, avoiding, if possible, the road leading from Paces Ferry to the same point. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 181 CItAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 181 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY Coups, Buck Heady Ga., July 18, 18649 p. m. Orders of the day for the Fourth Army Corps for July 19, 18(34, un- less changed in orders to-night: The following-mentioned reconnaissances will be made by division commanders of this corps to-morrow, each to start from camp at (3 a. in.: 1. Major-General Stanley, with one of his brigades, will move on the 1)ecatur road as far as the north fork of Peach Tree Creek. II. General Newton, with his reserve regiments, will move on the roa(l i~ext to ami on the left of the Atlanta road as far as the north ti)rk of Peach Tree Creek. III. General Wood, with one of his reserve brigadcs, will move on the Atlanta road as far as Peach Tree Creek. It is desired that the skirmish lines be strong. and that the lines of the (livislons be started simultaneously, but subsequently the connec- tioii IIee(l not be kept up. The major-general commanding will accompany the reconnaissance on the Atlanta road, and the reconnaissances on the other roads will reg- ulate on this one. 13y order of Major- General howard: J. S. FULLET~TON, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ ON PEACH TREE, GA., No. 71. 5 July 18, 1864. * * * * * * III. In accordance with instructions from Military Division of the Mississippi, the following movements will be made to-morrow: 1. Major-General Logan, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will, at 3 oclock, mnove his comnmnand toward Decatur, striking the railroad at the nearest point on his route, tearing up track, burning the ties, mnak- ing the destruction complete aUd effectual. 2. Major-General Blair, commanding Seventeenth Armny Corps, will, at 5 oclock, move toward Decatur, following the command of General Logan, via Hendersons Mill, or by an intermnediate route between the positions of General Logan and General Dodge, if a practicable road can be ftnnd. Should General Blair discover a road intermediate, lead- ing to the railroad, his mnen will also be employed in tearing up tracks, burning ties, twisting rails, & c. 3. Major-General 1)odge, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Armny Corps, will, at 5 oclock, move forward across the creek toward I)ecatur, striking the railroad east of that place, and emnploying his troops imi the effectual destruction of the road. 4. Brigadier-General Garrard, commanding cavalry division, will, at 5 oclock, move eastward along the line of the railroad, in the vicinity of Stone Mountain, continuing its destruction as far as possible. 5. The several corps of this comnmnand will pursue the line of march toward Decatur, keeping up communication with each other as far as practicable, converging at that point and continuing thefr work until night, when the lines will be closed on General Schofield about Pea Vine and Decatur. (3. Should indications of a heavy battle be heard, each corps will move to the right and close in on General Schofield, but not otherwise Page 182 182 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 7. Corps commanders will see that sufficient wagons are brought for- ward from their trains to supply their troops with three days rations. Empty wagons will be sent back for supplies and all trains will move under proper guards. By order of Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLAHK, Assistant Adjutant- qeneral. HEADQUARTERS PEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 19, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: G-ENERAL: If you think it advisable that Major-Geucral Stoneman should be speedily provided with the means of crossing the river, I would respectfully suggest that inasmuch as General howard has now a trestle bridge, there is no necessity for General McPhersons bridge to remain longer at Powers Ferry, and it could be spared to General Stoneman. This would be better than dividing my bridge. I. am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, (ionnnanding. - HDQRS. MILITARY DIvISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 19, 1864. General THOMAS: I have your note of to-day about the pontoon bridge. You will re- member you promised to save one bridge of pontoons of the enemy, and I thou ght that would be laid at Paces, the post most easily drawn from for the use of Stoneman, but I will let Stonemnan go without, for 1 doubt whether we can get cavalry to cross the river as long as the enemy chooses to picket it. I am intensely anxious to hear your posi- tion and whether, if we engage the enemy to-morrow, you can lend us a hand. I am satisfied both forks of Peach Tree above the forks can i)e forded, and I cannot hear that Howard is across even the Middle Fork. McPherson has broken the railroad to Decatur and occupies Deca- tur. Schofield is on a road from Doctor Powells to Atlanta, his advance a mile and a half down the road at the Pea Vine. I beg you to send me a sketch of the position of your troops, that I may know whether to move to-morrow directly on Atlanta. If not already done, Iloward should prepare bridges across both branches of Peach Tree to-night, that in case we become heavily engaged to-morrow you can re-enforce us. What about the report of Stoneman about the enemy crossing the Chat- tahoochee westward at Sweet Water ~ I think it was a party sent to prevent Stonemnans return from West Point, whither they supposed he had gone. General Corse is not yet back, but I look for him all the time. I am, yours, truly, ~. T. SIIEHMAN, Major- General Page 183 CnAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 183 IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Decatur, Ga., July 19, 1864. General THoi~IAs: I sent General Corse to you this morning to explain the various posi- tions of the troops and to explain my wishes. I think you have too much of your force the other side of Nancys Creek. One division would be ample there, and all the rest in a general line, with Buck II cad s a center. Howards corps should then feel to the left and cross the forks of the Peach Tree~ toward Pea Vine Creek. I take it for granted all the main crossings of Peach Tree in that quarter are well covered~ but can be turned by the left. We are across all the forks of the Peach Tree~ and the head of Schofields column is beyond the forks of the road leading to 1)ecatur and Atlanta, where Powers is on our map. The Atlanta road is a big one and about half a mile west of Powells forks~ the left to Atlanta six miles, and the right to Paces Ferry. After crossing the Middle Fork, a main fork of the Peach Tree, General Schofield sent Colonel Hartsuff, of his staff, to feel down. He went to the crossing places of Peach Tree, approaching from the south, and was fired on from the bank supposed to be occupied by how- ard, and had an orderly wounded. I have no doubt Howard can cross anywhere above the forks. I have seen an Atlanta paper of the 18th, containing Johnstons farewell order to his troops. From its tone and substance I infer he has been relieved by Jeff Davis, who sent Bragg to Atlanta to bear the or(ler. I also infer it is not for the purpose of getting another coin- iiand. hood succeeds. You must get across Peach Tree either by moving direct on Atlanta, or,if necessary, leave a force to watch the bridge in possession of the enemy and move by the left. This is very important, and at once, as we may have to fight all of Hoods froni east of Atlanta. I prefer you should let howard open the way at once along the Paces Ferry and Decatur road, or any other in that direction. I will push for the occu- pation of Decatur~ and then west for Atlanta, till we know exactly what the artificial defenses are. I have already advised you that Mc- Pherson has taken the railroad between Decatur and Stone Mountain, and I expect him and Schofield to make a junction in Decatur to-day, in which case I will move Schofield on the road from Powells to At- lanta. Schofield reports that his skirmishers are just in the edge of Decatur1.05 p. m. A paragraph in the Atlanta paper of yesterday says the people in Montgomery were in great apprehensions about a Yankee raid, and were rushing to arms for the defense of the city. That means lion sseau. Yours, SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 19, 18643.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have seen your note to General Howard. I am at the crossing of Peach Tree Creek with General Woods division, who has crossed one brigade and is crossing another on the main road to Atlanta. General Davis is across Peach Tree at two places. General Gear Page 184 184 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. 1. will cross immediately on Woods right. The troops are all pressing forward. All my troops were between Nancys and Peach Tree Creek last night, and your orders of yesterday were thoroughly executed. Very respectfully, GEG. II. THOMAS, Major- General, U. ~. Volunteers. IJDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OP THE Mississippi, Near Decatur, Ga., July 19, 1864. General THOMAS, Army of the (Jumberland: GENERAL: 1 have just received General Stonemans note with yonr indorseinent. 1 cannot reconcile his information with what I see and hear; yet it is possible that the enemy is crossiiig in force at the mouth of Sweet Water. I think it is the cavalry by way of diversion. Please send to General Stoneinan again and see if he has ascertained the truth; and if you deem it necessary you call send your right corps across at Powers Ferry and interpose between the enemy and our bridges, as also Marietta. Stoneman aiid MeCook have force enough to check any movement of cavalry, and there is a good force of infantry at Marictta and Kanesaw, to which place information should be promptly sent. Yours, W. T. S11EJ~MAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 19, 18644.45 p. rn. General SHERMAN: GENERAL: Your note dated near Decatur is received. General Wood is across Peach Tree Creek on the main road to Atlanta and pushing for- ward. General Geary is crossing now immediately on Woods right. General Davis has crossed at two points, near Moores Mill and Howells Mill. All are ordered to push for Atlanta. It appears to me this move- ment will relieve General Schofield in his move on Decatur. Your order, however, to General Howard has been received and he has been ordered to execute it. All my troops have been between Nancys Creek and Peach Tree Creek, the place where you ordered them, ever since 12 oclock yesterday, and by sundown yesterday Palmers skirmishers were on the bank of Peach Tree Creek covering all the crossings toward At- lanta, and the enemy continually pressed at all points. I have given orders that the troops move forward at daybreak to- morrow morning for Atlanta. Very respectfully, GEO. 11. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. P. 3.An Atlanta paper of to-day has been captured by Woods force which reports Opelika was captured yesterday and corroborates the re- port that Johnston has been relieved by Hood. G. II. THOMAS Page 185 CHAIX Li CORRESPONDENCI~, ETC,UNION. 185 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISIoN OF TILE Mississippi, In the Field, July 19, 18647jp. m. General THOMAS: GENERAL: I have this moment received yours of 3.30, and am very glad to hear that Howard has the means to cross over to Schofield in case of need. We have had some skirmishing and abundant evidence that the whole of the rebel army is about Atlanta. The fortifications lie mostly behind the Chattahoochee and Peach Tree, and my belief is we can apl)roaclL from the east with certainty of getting within cannon reach of the town, in which case it cannot be held; but to push Schofield and McPherson on the place without a certainty of your being able to effect a junction would be extra hazardous. Schofield is oii a road lead- in g from Doctor Powells directly to Atlanta. McPherson has a corps in Decatur and the balance just northeast. Some (.)f the enemys cavalry retreated east. Garrard has gone east to break railroad. I am near I)octor Powells. Before 1 issue my orders I want to hear that your coin- mnand is where it can take part iii the battle if offered outside of Atlanta. If hood fights behind forts. close to the town, 1 will swing in between Atlanta an ~l the river; b at if he light outside, we nuist accept battle. Please to-night give me the fullest description according to the official niap. Yours, truly, ~ T. SHEI~MAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Howells Mill, Peach Tree C~reek, Ga., July 19, 18G4. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the following movements of the troops of the Army of the Cumberland have beemi made this daSr: The divisions of Brigadier-Generals Davis and Baird, of the Fourteenth Army Corps; Brigadier-General Geary, of the Twentieth Corps, and Brigadier-General Wood, of the Fourth Corps, have crossed the Peach Tree Creek and established themselves on the south side. The division of Major-General Stanley, of the Fourth Corps, will probably get across to-night, and I have given orders for all the columns to press forward toward Atlanta at daylight in the morning. Time crossing was effected by Brigadier-Generals Davis and Woods divisions in the flice o.f con- si(lerable opposition by the rebels. Not so much resistance was offered to Brio-adier-Generals Geary and Baird and Brigadier-General John- son was prevented from crossing by a mill pond in his front. Inclosed herewith I send a Memphis Appeal of this date. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MisSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 19, 1864S .10 p. m. General THOMAS: Good for Rousseau! Move for Atlanta at daylight, trying to connect with Schofield two miles east of Atlanta. He will move on the road from Howells to Atlanta; McPherson by the main road, following sub Page 186 186 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. stantially the railroad. The confusion resulting from my inisunder- standing your position resulted from want of information. I supposed your central corps to be on the main road from Buck Head to Atlanta, the right corps extending to the mouth of Nancys Creek, and the left, Howard, up along the Peach Tree road. The road laid down on the map from Buck Head, cross lug Peach Tree in lot 133, where Stanley now is, intersects another to Atlanta, crossing the South Fork, which is much the smaller of the two, and easily fordable at lot 37. That road would connect your left with Schofield at the very point needed. On that road I know Iloward could meet no forts or barric8des, 1 )ut on the direct road I have no doubt forts will be met. With McI~herson, Howard, and Schofield, I would have ample to tight the whole of IJoods army, leaving you to walk into Atlanta, capturing guns and everything. Ilut with Schofield and IMePherson alone, the game will not be so certain. I would like to have Stanley~s and Newtons divisions follow that route and let Wood go ahead, as he is across, amid effect the junction at some J)Oint near Pea Vine s two or three miles northeast of Atlanta. At Lay all events, now that I feel satisfied you can get across Peach Tree, and as I think the opportunity the best, I will order the universal movement on Atlanta at daylight. Communicate with inc as often as possible. I will be with Schofield, the center. Yours, truly, W. T. SITEIIMAN, J[ftyor- General. AT SUTERMEISTERS BATTnnv~ July 19, 1S6411.Th ((. m. Major-General Tuo AS, Commanding Army ~f the Cumberiand: The battery being erected by the rebels is (lown the river, with two embrasures bearing in that direction. It is two miles from Sumter- meister and not intended to fime on his work. The bridge we saw across a creek above time railroad is still there, and therefore I (lont think it caim be Peach Tree Creek, as Davis skirmishers were ordered to the mouth of that creek. A (leserter from time rebels at General MeCooks reports belongIng to Cheathamns division, which left time large fort and other works at about 6 p. in. yesterday. J. M. BIIANNAN, Brigadier- General and Chief of Artillery. I will ascertain something positive as to the creek. Itebel skirmish- ers are pretty strong and quite active this umorning. J. A. B. If the creek we see from here is Peach Tree Creek, then our right (Davis) is not on it. J.M.B. HEADQUARTEES FOURTH Amuwv CORPS, General THOMAS, Jnly 19, 18647.40 a. in. C~ommanding Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: General Wood made a reconnaissance as directed, reach- ing the vicillity of Peach Tree Creek at 6.30 a. m. I am with the reco Page 187 CHAP. L4 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC,UNION. naissance. Bridge is burned. A pretty fair infantry work constructed as a bridge-head beyond and manned with infantry. No artillery opened by enemy yet. He made a demonstration as if to turn our right, push- ing ont a line of skirmishers in a corn-field. They ran back as our artil- lery opened. There is considerable smoke on the main ridge half a mile toward Atlanta, but no main work, except near the bridge and river. Respectfully, ~. 0. HOWARD, Major- General~ HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Peach Tree Greek, July 19, 18648 a. m. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Department: General Wood reacbed Peach Tree Creek at 6.30 a. m. lie found the bridge burned and a l)retty fimir bridge-head on the other side con- structed for infantry. There is considerable smoke on the ridge half a mile toward Atlanta, but no other earth-works appear except those mentioned. No artillery has yet opened. Respectfully, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Buck Head, Ga., July 19, 18619.30 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: After my previous note the enemy opened on General Wood with artillery. General Stanley mnad~ a reconnaissance on the Decatur road. He finds the bridg-e across the North Fork burning and very little force to oppose him. General Newton sent a re~~iinent on the intermediate road to a point near the mouth of North Fork and finds infantry with works about to the extent of a brigade. I have directed General Stan- ley to put a force across North Fork if possible, and to secure and re- pair the bridge. The crossing at General Woods position is tIme most (lifflcnlt of any, and I think impracticable with any considerable force on the other side. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]hfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 19, 18649.15 a. m. Major-General HOWARD, 6~ommanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Your dispatch of 7.40 received. The general command- ing directs that you push forward as fast as possible in the direction of Atlanta. By command of Major-General Thomas: J. P. WILLARD,~ Captain and Aide-de-Camp Page 188 188 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. rnHA? L HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS Buck ilcad, July 19, 18G4. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: General Corse ,just left me for General Thomas. On the main road to Atlanta I find the bridge buriit, stream about fifty paces wide, a bridge-head pretty well constructed for infantry and well manned with troops armed with rifles. No further works can be seen on the main ridge beyond the creek. 1 (10 not deem a crossing at this point practicable. On the Decatur road General Stanley finds the bridge burning, which lie will try to secure and repair. Very little force in his front. This bridge was across the north fork of Peach Tree Creek. General Newton, 111)011 an intermediate road between Stanley and Wood, finds infitntry works defended by troops. On Wood the enemy opened with two pieces of artillery and made a demonstration as if to turn his right flank, but it resulted in notlnng further. The rumor is (from prisoners and scouts) that hood, is in command, and that Johnston has gone east. A scout who was there reports that the rebel right flank (infantry) was last night at dark near this bridge on the Atlanta road, where Wood now is. Respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, JJIiajor- Ucueral. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPpI, in the Field, one [miie~ and a ha~f from Decatur, July 19, 186412 inn. General HOWARD: I have received your note. It is true Johnston is relieved and gone east. I have seen a copy of his order of farewell to his trooJ)s. Hood is in command and at Atlanta. I want Thomas to have more of his command at Buck head. A di- vision will be ample west of Nancys. All the rest should be from Buck Head east. I wish him to press hard at all the crossings of the main Peach Tree Creek, but your corps should be across in the direc- tion of Decatur or Pea Vine Creek. General Schofield sent to communicate with you, and the bearer ap- proached by one of the crossings, the second one from the mouth of the South Fork, but was fired on, he thinks, by your pickets, wounding an orderly, and he returned. You will have no trouble in crossing the two forks of Peach Tree any where above the forks. General Schofield now holds the forks of the Atlanta and Decatur roads, and is skirmishing on both, but thinks he will soon have the head of his column at Decatur. McPherson is approaching the same objective point from the east, having broken up the railroad good. I will write to General Thomas by a courier, and give him such orders as will enThle you to put your corps across both forks of Peach Tree between Schofield and your pres- ent position. Yours, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 189 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 189 HEADQUARTERS FOURTfI ARMY CORPS, Buck Head, Ga., July 19, 18648 p. rn. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: In accordance with instructions, General Wood made a demonstration this a. m. along the Atlanta road to Peach Tree Creek. Generals Newton arid Stanley at the same time making a reconnais- sanee with a small force on the roads to the left. The enemy was found in considerable force and well posted. His works covering the bridge were carefully constructed intrenchments. As soon as I received the order from your headquarters dated 9.15 a. m. of to-day, I ordered General Wood to force a crossing. This he did very handsomely, driving out a brigade of the enemys infantry and taking possession of his rifle-pits. He took about 30 prisoners. General Stanley effected a crossing of the North Fork of Peach Tree Creek, extinguished the burning and repaired the bridge. Casualties of the corps about 20 killed and wounded. Very respectfully, & c., ~. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Buck Head, Ga., July 19, 1864. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Division: The general commanding directs that you secure the bridge, if pos- sible, by throwing a force over the creek. Strengthen your force there, if you think it necessary, to the extent of a brigade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]Jfajor. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, near Howells hull, Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 19,1864. Maj. Gen. J. A. PALMER, Comm an~ ing Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that as soon as Brigadier-General Johnson can get his bridge finished that you cause his and Brigadier-General Bairds divisions t& push toward Atlanta, Johnson feeling for General Hookers right. Brigadier-General Davis division had better~ remain where it is to prevent and meet any move- ment the enemy may make to turn our right, unless he ascertains that he (the enemy) has ceased to occupy the heights in his (Davis) front and right. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WA. D. WIIIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Peach Tree C~reek, Ga., July 19, 18645 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: General Geary has one brigade established on the south side of Peach Tree Creek. I have directed him to skirmish along th Page 190 190 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. ridge, wliich is a continuation of the ridge which leads to the creek from my headquarters. Lieutenant Ludlow is now engaged in con- strncting a bridge for the passage of artillery and trains. We encoun- tered but little resistance after I had gotten one regiment over the creek. My headquarters to-night same as last night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding. The enemy opposed to me, prisoners state, is Gates [Gists] brigade, Walkers division~ liar dccs corps. As near as I can learn Walkers division is now drawn up in line of battle on the Atlanta road via How- ells Mill. Prisoners state that the whole of Hardees corps is in this neighborhood. Respectfully, JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CoRPS, Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 19, 18646 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I have given directions for the whole of Gearys division to cross Peach Tree Creek and estab- lish themselves on the south side of it, and shall bring up Williams division to suppoit him. Prisoners state that the order was published last night relieving Johnston and putting Hood in command of their army. They do not kiiow that any portion of their forces have been sent to our left. They say that Stewarts (Polks) corps is on the left of Hardees, which latter is in our front. They state fuuther that their main line of defense is three miles from Atlanta in front of me, and about two and a half miles in the direction of the Chattahoochee. They state that the assignment of Hood gives great dissatisfaction in Hardees corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General, Commanding HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, In the Field, near Howells Mill, Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 19, 1864. Major~General HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that to-morrow mornin~., commencing at daylight, you move your entire corps to the south side of the Peach Tree Creek, at the point where General Geary crossed his division this evening, and push out toward Atlanta. Major- Generals Palmer and Howard have been ordered to do the same, and you will, if practicable, connect with them on your right and left. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 191 011A2. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 191 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 19, 1864. Col. E. W. CRITTENDEN, Commanding Cavalry Brigade, Ishams Perry, Ga.: COLONEL: General Stonenian reports that the enemy is crossing the river at the mouth of Sweet Water. They will doubtless attempt to de- stroy our trains and depot at Marietta, and may attempt to capture our bridges at the different river crossings. Keep all the trains on this side the river and under your guns. Look out for the rebels and give them a warm reception. Keep me informed of all that you learn. The supply train is ordered forward to-night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. lxi. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Decatur, Ga., July 19, 1864. Brig. Gen. N. S. HASCALL, Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: General Cox is ordered to move forward on the Atlanta road at once. The commanding general desires you to move your com- mand directly in rear of General Coxs column, keeping in close support of him, in advance of his wagons. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Decatur, Ga., July 19, 186411.40 p. m. Brig. Gen. J. P. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: A general movement of the army on Atlanta is ordered at 5 a. m. to-morrow. The commanding general desires you to have your command in readiness to move at that hour, and await further orders from these headquarte~ s. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY COMMAND, July 19, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE II. THOMAS: GENERAL: The force that crossed the river last night is supposed to be a strong scouting party. Respectfully, GEO. STONEMAN, Major- General Page 192 192 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IIDQRS. CAVALRY COMMAND, DEPT. OF THE Onro, Major-General THOMAS, July 19, 186411 a. m. Commanding, & c.: I have ascertained that the rebel party that crossed the river last night near the month of Sweet Water Creek, probably recrossed this morning, as I cannot hear of their having gone northward, nor that they brought over any horses. The eiemys pickets near Turners Ferry and the month of Nickajack were very active and unusually spite- ful all night and this morning, and I have strengthened the line, keeping a limited reserve at the most central position. He appears strongest near the mouth of Sweet Water, a large cavalry camp being there. I learn that several parties of several hundred in each party made their appearance in the country we passed over, crossing at Campbell- ton after we left there, three days ago. The enemy have facilities for crossing, as he has all the boats on their side, which are sunk when not required. I have one brigade near the mouth of Sweet Water watch- ing the force opposite, another near the mouth of Nickajack, the dis- mounted men at Turners Ferry, all connecting. My remaining force, acting as a reserve, and to guard oar communications, is at and near the Widow Mitchells, and from this I also send out scouts beyond the Sweet Water Town bridge. I will keel) you, and through you, the commanding general; informed of everything of importance as it transpires. Very respectfully, & c., GEONGE STOXEMAN, Major- General, Commanding. (Forwarded to General Sherman by General Thomas.) IIDQi~S. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, at Sam. Houses, July 19, 18641 a. m. General MCPHERSON: DEAR GENERAL: I have just received your report and papers, and have read them all. The breaking the road is all right. Now we must look after Joe Johnston. Move to-day toward Decatur and co-operate with Schofield and Thomas. Schofields advance is across Peach Tree, on the direct road to Decatur, and met little opposition. We will de- velop their plans to-morrow. Schofield will move early, and Thomas will press for the front. I will be near Peach Tree Creek where the Cross (Old) Keys road crosses by a ford and bridge, which ~is being re- paired. You had better approach Decatur from the northeast; the Lawrenceville road seems to falfill the conditions. I will see you about Decatur to-day. Yours, truly, SHERMAN, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Major-General MCPHERSON, Decatur, July 19, 1864. Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say that General Stoneman reports the enemy as crossing in force about th Page 193 Cxi& p. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 193 mouth of Sweet Water Creek from east to west. He advises you to get your trains ou this side of the river aud give such directious as to be prepared for any cavalry dash at Itoswell to-night. I am, general, yours, respectfully, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. [JULY 19, 1864.For Garrard to McPherson, reporting operatious, & c., see Part II, p. 808.] CAMP ON PEACH TREE CREEK, July 19, 186111.30 p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT, Washington, D. C.: Right of hue in nearly same position as at date my last. Center advanced to Peach Tree Creek left swung round, destroying railroad from point near Stone Mountain to Decatur, where it now rests. I think I said our line rested on Chattahoochee, at Turners, which was mani- fest blunder. Should have said Howells. Rebel left is at ~ and right at point between 4tla~nta and Decatur, on Augusta railroad. Johnston is relieved by Hood. Jeff. Davis, Bragg, and Johnston went east together four days since. Resistance more determined to-day, and we find infantry line and intrenchments threatened. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MISS., In the Field, near Decat~ , Ga., No. 89. ) July 19, 1861. The whole army will move on Atlanta by the most direct roads to- morrow, July 20, beginning at 5 a. in., as follows: I. Major-General Thomas from the direction of Buck Head, his left to connect with General Schofields right about two miles northeast of Atlanta, about lot 15, near the houses marked as Hu. and Col. Hoo. II. Major-General Schofield by the road leading from Doctor Powells to Atlanta. 111. Major-Gencial McPherson will follow one or more roads direct from Decatur to Atlanta, following substantially the railroad. Each army commander will accept battle on anything like fair terms, but if the army reach within cannon-range of the city without receiving artiJlery or musketry fire he will halt, form a strong line, with batteries in position, and await orders. If fired on from the forts or buildings of Atlanta no consideration must be paid to the fact that they are occu- pied by families, but the place must be cannonaded without the for- mality of a demand. The general-in-chief will be with the center of the army, viz, with or near General Schofield. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, A- ide-de-Gamp. 13 11 11VOL XXXVIII, PT Page 194 194 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CUAP. L. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Buck Head, Ga., July 19, 18646 p. rn. Orders of the day for the Fourth Army Corps, Thr July 20, 1864. This corps will march on Ati auta, starting promptly at 5 a. in. to-mor- row. The troops will move in two columns ou diff~rent roads, but these columns will unite soon after leaving the other side of Peach Tree Creek. Major-General 5tanley~s division will coustitute oue column, and the other will be composed of Generals Newtons an(l Woods divisions, Gen- eral Newtons divisiou to take the lead. After these two columns ftrm a junction, Major-General Stanleys division will take the lead, followed by General Newtons and then General Woods division. The route ot march will be pointed out to division commanders before 5 a. m. to- morrow. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ NEAR DECATUR, GA., No. 72. 5 July 19, 1864. In order to carry out Special Field Orders, No. 39, headquarters Mili- tary Division of the Mississippi, a copy of which is inclosed herewith,~ the following movements will take place to-morrow: 1. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan will move hi~ command through l)ecatur, on the direct road to Atlanta, starting at 5 a. in. 2. Major-General Blair will move his command, starting at 0 oclock, into Decatur, thence south, or nearly so, a mile and a half to Scho- fields house, where he will take a road leading to Atlanta and which intersects the main road from Decatur at a distance of three miles froum Atlanta, coming in on the left of Major-General Logan. 3. Major-General Dodge will hold his command in his present posj- tion and be ready to follow im~nediately after the Fifteenth Army Corps on dfrect road. 4. Brigadier-General Garrard will operate upon our left flank and rear as we move toward Atlanta, and will so dispose his forces as to cover the trains in and about Decatur from any cavalry dash. 5. All wagons, except ammunition wagons and ambulances, will be left behind in the vicinity and to the north of Decatur, until the result of our advance is determined. 6. The command will move forward prepared for battle, divested of all useless incunibrances, and the major-general coummanding trusts that every man will be found in ranks and in his proper place. By order of Maj. 0-en. James B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA.~ July 20, 18649 p. m. (Received 12.45 p. m. 21st.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have a dispatch from General Grant. Answer him iu my name that Maj. Gem A. J. Smith has the very orders he suggests, *80eV l9~$ Page 195 CHAP L.j CORRESPJNDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 viz, to hang on to Forrest and prevent his coming to Tennessee. I will, however, renew the orders. I advanced from the Chattahoochee in force on the 17th. On the 18th General McPherson and Garrards cavalry reached the Augusta road and destroyed about five miles of it east of Decatur. On the 19th the whole line crossed Peach Tree Creek, General McPherson occupying Decatur. To-day we moved on Atlanta and have beeu fighting all day. Our line now extends from a point on the railroad two miles and a half east of Atlanta, and extends around by the north to the mouth of Peach Tree Creek. We find the enemy in force, but will close in to-morrow. By the Atlanta papers we learn that Johnston is relieved and Hood commands; that ltousseau is on the railroad at Opelika, and that most of the newspapers and people have left Atlanta. General Thomas is on my right, General Schofield the center, and General McPherson on the left, General Garrards cavalry on the left rear of General McPherson, and Generals Stoneman and MeCook on the west bank, guarding our right flank. The enemy still clings to his intrenchnments. If General Grant can keep Lee from re-enforcing this army for a week, I think 1 can dispose of it. We have taken several hundred prisoners, and had some short severe encounters, but they were partial; but we have pressed the enemy back at all points until our rifle-shot can reach the town. If he strengthens his works I will gradually swing around between him and his only source of supplies, Macon. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mn~sn~snppi, In the Field, near Decatur, Ga., July 20, 18641.55 a. m. General THOMAS I am now in possession of your sketch, which is perfectly clear and plain. In advancing this morning, of course we will bring on a heavy battle, and should be as fully prepared as l)ossible. I think as your troops are now disposed your right will be too strong as compared with your left. I have, therefore, to request that Stanley and Newton, of Howards corps, move by the road Stanley is now on, making a right wheel gradually until they can meet with Schofield and Wood. In other words, I wish you to strengthen your left and risk more to your right, for the reason that as Atlanta is threatened the emmemy will look to it rather than the river. Now, I have read the l)al)ers, and Rousseau has surely broken up the road about Opelika very oppor- tunely. We have done complete work east of Decatur, amid luckily it appears that a locomotive has blown up alm(l encumbered the track omi the Macomi road, so now is the time for us to strike in force. Do keep me fully advised, as I am pressed from riglmt, left, and center with questions as to the dispositions of the different commands. But all now are in good position, and it only remains to find out where is the artificial de- fenses of the enemy. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General Page 196 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CnAP L. 196 HEAnQuARTER~S ARMY OF THE CTJMBERLAND, July 20, 186412 m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: I have just completed an inspection of the lines from right to left. The enemy seems to be resisting General Palmers extreme right very obstinately. I have therefore directed him to hold General Davis in force to observe and oppose any attempts on our right flank. The other two divisions of General Palmers corps, General Hookers corps, and General Newtons division, of General Howards corps, are a mile in advance of Peach Tree Creek, their skirmishers connecting, and the troops advancing gradually. Prisoners report that the enemys line of battle confronts my troops, with his left near Turners Ferry, and his right resting on what I take to be Pea Vine Creek. He has a heavy line of skirmishers in my front. If the prisoners report be true his attention is fully occnpied by us, and I am in hopes Generals McPher- son, Schofield, and Howard will be able to fall upon his rear without any very great difficulty. Captaimi Sutermeister, who commands the artillery stationed in the redoubt on the north side of the Chattahoo- chee, at the railroad bridge, reports considerable force of the enemy in his front in their rifle-pits. That report, taken in connection with the fact of a considerable force threatening General Davis right, induces me to place some confidence in the reports of the deserters, which I hope may be true, as it will enable you to capture a great many pris- oners. General Davis lost quite heavily yesterday, probably 200, in- cluding wounded and missing. The loss in the other commands is slight. We have taken about 50 of the enemy prisoners and buried 25 or 30 of their killed. Very respectfully, yours, & c., GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. P. 5.The Stoneman raid turns out to be a humbug. I sent you his last report yesterday afternoon and hope it was received. It seems that wheu twenty-five of the enemy are seen anywhere, they are con- sidered in force. G. H. T. WITH GENERAL HOWARD, Four miles north of Atlanta, [July 20, 186413.25 [p. m.}. General THOMAS: From McPhersons fire I think he is within one and a half or two miles of Atlanta. Schofield ought to be within two miles. All your troops should push hard for Atlanta, sweeping everything before them. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Iliajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 20, 18646.10 [p. m.1. General TuoMAS: l)EAR GENERAL: I have yours of 12 m. I have been with Howard and ~hhohe1d to-day, and one of my staff is just back fr~mn General McPherson. All report tt~i ~a4MIIY ia tL~ir front so strong that I wa Page 197 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 197 in hopes none were left for you, but I see it is the same 01(1 game; but we must not allow the enemy to build a new system of fortifications. We cannot pass Atlanta without reducing it, and the more time we give theta the harder it will be to carry. General Schofield is near the distillery, where the enemy is fortifying. General Howard is just where he first encountered the enemy, four miles back from Atlanta, and Mc- Pherson is on the railroad, about two miles and a half out, but reports a line of breast-works, but does not seem certain. I wish you to press forward all the time, and thereby contract the lines. If we cau shorten our line either to the left or right, we should attempt to break up West Point. I rather incline to think it best to swing to the right, but hope to-morrows work may develop some weak part. The enemy attempted to sally against Cox, but were quickly repulsed. I saw the skirmishers of the other division of Schofield make a dash at a line of rifle-pits, car- rying it and capturing about 100 prisoners. I was anxious to-day to prevent the enemy from making a new and larger line of breast-works than had been at first prepared, which is so near Atlanta that artillery could overreach and enter the town. All the prisoners captured by Schofield are of Hoods corps, though each division commander insists lie has to fight two corps. All the ground I have seen is densely wooded, but the roads are good. We will to-morrow press at all points and contract our lines, so as to spare a column for detached service. It seems to me Palmer can force the enemy to evacuate the works on this bank of the Chattahoochee or be captured. 1 will push Schofield and McPherson all I know how. Yours, truly, W. T. SHEIIMAX, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 20, 18G46.1~5 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: The enemy attacked me in full force at about 4 p. in., and has persisted until now, attacking very fiercely, but he was repulsed handsomely by the troops all along my line. Our loss has been heavy, but the loss inflicted upon the enemy ha.s been very severe. We have taken many prisoners, and General Ward reports having taken 2 stand of colors. I cannot make at present more than this general report, but will send you details as soon as I can get them from my corps coin- manders. Very respectfully, yours, & c., GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. ~. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 20, 18648 p. m. General THOMAS: DEAR GENERAL: I have just read General Stonemamis letter with your imidorsment. We have seen enough to-day to convince us that all of Stonemans infom-matioi is incorrect. Something more than militi Page 198 198 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L remain at Atlanta, and they are not demoralized. They have fonght hard and persistently all day, and the heavy musketry fire still contin- ues with Howard and Schofield. I do not hear McPhersons guns now. I will send him your letter, but fear his answer will be that he has all the rebels on his flank. I think he is already impressed with the importance of pressing hard on that flank. if we cannot break in, we must move by the right flank and iiiterpose between the river and Atlanta, and operate against the road south. If you can advance your whole line, say to within three miles of Atlanta, I can throw a force around your rear to East Point. If you see a good chance to strike in that quarter you may call for Stonemans and MeCooks men, and let them come across by Paces and march down this bank. My own opinion is that in the morning you will find the forts on the Chattahoo- chee abandoned, and think you will have no difficulty in pushing your line up close to Atlanta. At all events, try it. I will send your and Stonemans letters to McPherson, but think the opportunity of oper- ating on that flank, if it did exist, is now past. Yours, truly, W. T. SHEIRMAX, Major- General. HDQES. FOURTH ARMY CORPS, INSPECTORS OFFICE, Near Durands Mill, on Peach Tree Creek (& uth Fork), Ga., July 20, 1RG4. Colonel MENDENHALL, Assistant Inspector- General, Dept. of the Cumberland: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the divisions of Stanley and Wood crossed the South Fork of Peach Tree Creek to-day near iDurands Mill and are now in position, with the left upon the Atlanta road and the right near the ihouth of South Fork Peach Tree Creek. General Newton occupies the position taken by General Wood yester- day, south of the creek on the main Buck Head and Atlanta road, having gained some ground. All have had some hard fighting with the enemys infantry and artillery. Stanley connects with General Schofield on his left, and Wood connects with King on the right. Just after dark Groses brigade captared 42 prisoners, among them a cap- tain belonging to Stevensons division, Cheathams corps (Hoods). Gibsons brigade crossed the south fork of the creek after sunset, and forms Woods extreme right, near the junction of the two forks. Please mention this latter to General Thomas, as it was not so reported in General Howards communication. Respectfully, C. H. HOWARD, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Inspector- General. JULY 20, 18048.15 a. in. General WHIPPLE: I sent a staff officer to General Hooker, who reports Gearys division only over, distant three-quarters to one mile from my right. General Hooker is to send another division to the left of G~eary. As soon as thi Page 199 Ci~r. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 199 is done I will advance a strong skirmish line to feel the enemy. It seems to me useless to attempt anything until I have a connection with Hooker, who is now too far. I respectfully await your instructions. Respectfully, & c., J. NEWTON, Brigadier- General. P. S.The enemy opened artillery on Hooker. J. N. JULY 20, 1864. General WHIPPLE: I am ordered to report directly to General Thomas by General How- ard. I was ready to attack, when orders were received taking Wood away. 1 am relieving Hazens brigade, and have sent to find the where- abouts of General Hooker, on my right. As soon as these are done I will advance a strong skirmish line of three regiments, in order to feel and ascertain what I have in front. My force is 3,200 bayonets. Respectfully, & c., JOHN NEWTON, Brigad4ier- General, Commanding Division. HEADQUAI~TERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 20, 186410.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. NEWTON: GENERAL: Your dispatch of 8.30 oclock is received. I am with Major-General Hooker, who informs me that General Wards division has gone into position between your right and General Gearys left, and closes up that interval. Prepare your command for an advance, and move forward in conjunction with General Hookers troops. I will be over to see you in a few minutes on the Buck Head and Atlanta road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 20, 18643.45 p. m. Brig. Gen. JOHN NEWTON: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you hold the ground you occupy at present and strengthen your position until Gen- eral Hooker comes up with you. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. RAMSEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR HOWELLS BRIDGE, GA., July 20, 18641.30 p. m. [General THOMAS:] GENERAL:1 sent you a note about half an hour since,but fixed the hour wrong, my watch having stopped. Matters remain here about a Page 200 200 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. you left them this morning. General Palmer is waiting for General Hooker to advance his lines before he advances Johnson and Baird. He will then keep pace with them. The bridge will be finished in half an hour. The battery on the hill is completed, and has been firing at rebel lines. No change in enemys position. They are strengthening their works in front of Davis. Slight skirmish fire kept up along the line. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR BRIDGE ON MAIN ROAD TO ATLANTA THROUGH GENERAL PALMERS LINES, July 20, 18G43 p. m. [General THOMAS:] GENERAL: Things remain here as you left them this morning. Gen- eral Palmer is waiting for General Hooker to advance before pushing forward Johnson and Baird, who will keep i~ace with General (icary when lie starts. The battery on the hill is finished, and has been firing into what was supposed to be the rebel skirmish line. There is no per- ceptible change in the enemys position. They have developed a piece or two of artillery, firing apparently by guess at the bridge they are building near here. The battery cannot be seen from any position on this siQe of the creek, and it is fair to presume that those at the battery cannot see the bridge. It will be done in an hour. Very respectfully, WM. 13. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR HOWELLS MILL, GA., July 20, 18G44.45 p. m. [General THOMAS:] Rebs attacked us about 4 oclock at the junction between Twentieth and Fourteenth Corps, MeCooks and Knipes brigades, and were re- pulsed. Attack repeated and repulsed again. The enemy is still mov- ing troops to our left, as they have been all day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. 1). - WHTPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. The attack was very fierce and determined. Colonel McCooks adju- tant was killed. W. 13. W. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS General Durands Farm, Ga., July 20, 18647 p. m. Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I moved the two divisions, as directed, across both branches of Peach Tree Creek, formed a junction with General Scho- field between four and five miles from Atlanta. We have foi:nd th Page 201 CHAP. L.3 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 201 enemy in strong force in our front. General Stanley drove the rebel skirmishers first from rail barricades, afterward from well-constructed rifle-pits. The enemy oI)ened on him with musketry and artillery. General Stanley has deployed two brigades and General Wood two. General Woods right brigade occupies General Stanleys position of last night on the other side of North Fork. General Newtons oper- ations for the day have not been reported officially. Prisoners taken from Cheathams and Stevensons divisions. Respectfully, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. Written after dusk; cant see. HEADQUARTERS FOtTRTH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 20, 18648 p. m. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: Please instruct your brigade commanders to be on the lookout for movements of the enemy to-night. If he withdraws follo~v him up, if possible, and annoy him as much as you can. This in ac- cordance with instructions received from Major-General Sherman. By order of Major.Geueral Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Similar verbal instructions given to General Wood.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND Near Howells Mull, near Peach Tree tJreek, July 20, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The following extract from a letter from Major-General Sherman* is sent you for your information and guidance. You will fol- low this order should it be at variance with that given you yesterday by the major-general commanding. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant. WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Buck Head, Ga., July 20, 18646 a. m, Brigadier-General NEWTON, L1ommanding Second Division: In accordance with instructions just received, you will move toward Atlanta along the main road, as previously directed. You will keep up communication with General Hookers command. General Wood is See Sherman to Thomas, .Jaly 19, beginning with The road laid down on the map and ending say two or three miles northeast of Atlanta, p. 1S6 Page 202 202 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. directed to follow General Stanley. You will rather consider yourself detached, reporting when possible directly to department headquarters. As soon as it can be (lone the other two divisions will be pushed back to a connection with you. From present appearances the battle will be fought by the forces to your left. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMRERLAM, In the Field, July 20, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding does not desire that you should build a wagon bridge in front of Johnson. if he has the means of crossing his infantry at the bridge you speak of in yonr communica- tion, that is all he desires. The artillery and wagons can be crossed at General Gearys bridge, or at one of the others you have built, or both. Inclosed I send copy of Special Field Orders, No. 39, from headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, and return your letter, that you may have it copied at your leisure. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 20, 18647.30 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General, ~c.: GENERAL: The enemy cling with great obstinacy to our right. The colonel Thirty-fourth Illinois reports on Davis front two lines of skir- mishers and heavy columns of infantry moving to the right of Davis. Davis has just gone to see to it. Baird and Johnson are across the creek. Davis has one brigade on this side. There is skirmishing all along my front; heaviest on my right. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 20, 18645 p. m. Major-General PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: The major-general commanding directs that you send a brigade at least to stlpl)ort General Newton on the left at once. If it is possible for you to send a division or even two brigades, he desires you to do so. You will make your present position secure and send what force you can. The brigade must be sent at once, and be in position as soon as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. RAMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 203 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 203 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 20, 186410.50 a. m. Brig. Gen. 11. W. JOHNSON, Commanding First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you push forward your command ill conjunction with the movement of Major- General Hookers troops when he moves forward. Please inform Major- General Palmer of your receipt of this order. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. RAMSEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. JULY 20, 186411 a. m. Capt. A. C. MCCLURQ Assistant Adjutant- General, Fourteenth Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the ma- jor-general commanding corps, that I have just received orders from Major-General Thomas to push forward my command in conjunction with the movement of Major-General Hookers troops, when he moves forward. This report is made in conformity with the request of Major- General Thomas. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, li. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 20, 1864. Brigadier-General JOHNSON, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: Keep all your reserves well in hand and ready to be moved in any direction. Look at once to your lines. Reports from Davis state strong force in his front and heavy columns moving to his right. Very respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 20, 1864. General JOHNSON: Captain Watson has been gone some time on the hunt for information as to General Hookers purposes and movements, but has not returned. Do you know when General H[ooker] will be ready to advance ~ You will of course obey General Thomas order and I will advise you at tIme earliest moment of any information I may get which will assist yon. Respectfully, J. M. PALMER, Major- General Page 204 V~HAP. L. 204 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 20, 1& ;4. Brig. Gen. Th W. JOHNSON, Commanding First Dirision, Fourteenth Army Corps: The major-general commanding directs that if General Geary throws his right forward and enables you to do so, you will relieve a portion of General Bairds left, so as to enable him to strengthen his right bri- gade, which is much in need of it. He desires that you have two bri- gades in line and one in reserve, at the same time affording General Baird all the assistance possible in the manner indicated. [A. C. McCLURG.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 20, 1864. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD: The major-general commanding has directed General Johnson to afford you all the assistance possible. He deems the interv al between Colonels Walker and Este of no importance whatever. Very respectfully, & c., A. C. MCCLURG. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMImERLAND, July 20, 18613 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH HOOKER, (ommanding Twentieth Army Corps: Major-General Palmer rei~orts that he is waiting for your troops to advance before he can move. If this report is correct I wish you to pnsh forward your command at once. General Newton has advanced his division and now occupies the ridge taken by his skirmishers an hour since, and is now about to advance his skirmish line again. Very respectfully, yours, & c., GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, July 20, 18643.30 p. in. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Army of the Cumberland: GENERAL: Your note of 3 p. m. just received. My lines are on the road due east and west which I pointed out to yon this morning. General Palmers extreme left connects with it, but his right falls away to the rear and affords inc little or no protection. Major-General Palmer can scarcely understand where my line isor his own, if lie makes that statement. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH HOOKEIR, lIliajor- (3 enera 1, Commanding Page 205 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 20, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. HOoKER, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: As you will probably have breast-works constructed to- night, and as the enemy has been repulsed along the whole line in his attack of to-day, the major-general commanding directs that you press him strongly with skirmishers in the morning, for the purpose of ascer- taming what has become of him and of ascertaining his intentions. The same has been ordered for other corps of the army. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Decatur, Ga., July 20, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. S. HASCALL, Comm ending Second Division, Twenty-third Army Gorps: GENERAL: General Cox is ordered to move forward on the Atlanta road at once. The commanding general desires you to move your com- mand directly in rear of General Coxs column, keeping within close supporting distance of him, in advance of all the wagons. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, ]Jfajor and A8sistant Adjutant- General. Major CAMPBELL: [JULY 20, 1864.] SIR: I have come across from General Logan to find out where and on what road you are moving. The Fifteenth Army Corps is moving on the main road, parallel with the railroad. I will wait here at the headquarters of Colonel Swaines brigade until the orderly comes back. Very respectfully, HUGH NEILL, Captain Company K, Eighth Missouri Mounted Im~fantry. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SWAINES BRIGADE, July 20, 18649.30 a. m. Respectfully forwarded, through General Hascalls headquarters, to the headquarters of the department, with request to send answer to these headquarters. P. T. SWAINE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. [Second indorsesnent.] JULY 20, 186410.15 a. m. CAPTAIN: The Twenty-third Corps is moving on the Atlanta road, about one muile and a half to the right of the road the Fifteenth Corps is now on. Our advance is not quite four miles from Atlanta, amid has developed the enemys works in our front. J. A. C[AMPIJELLJ Page 206 iRE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAr. L. 206 IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, July 20, 1864. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Ahutant- General: MAJOR: Colonel Byrds brigade has reported since I wrote my last note, ajid is now closed np on the column. Yery respectfully, & c., ~. D. COX, Brigadier- General. JULY 20, 186410 a. m. Major-General THOMAS, I have the honor through yourself to state for the information of the commanding general that nothing of importance transpired in this vi- cinity during the night, except it be that a column of cavalry of the enemy passed down on the other side of the river, reported by the officer on duty at Howells Ferry as three miles long. I have sent a scout down to Campbellton to try to ascertain who they are, and where they have gone to. Please let one of your staff give me the state of things with you and on the left of the army. It may give me a clue P5 some of the various reports and rumors I hear, one of which is that a portion of Johnstons army is south of Atlanta, which of course is hardly possible. The force that passed down last night may be on the way to West Point, drawn there by Rousseau. Yery re~peetfully, & c., GEORGE STOKEMAN, Major- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Jttly 21, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to Major-General Sherman, commanding Mili- tary Division of the Mississippi, for his information. GEG. II. THOMAS, Major- General, U. & Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 20, 1864. Maj. Gem GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Cavalry Force: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to acknowl- edge the receipt of your note of 10 a. m. this day, and to give you a summary of events occurring in this army. Our lines were yesterday pushed across Peach Tree Creek in several places, and to-day when an advance was being made by all the corps, the enemy made a furious attack on our men, commencing at about 4 p. m. on the extreme left, General Newtons lines, and extending to the extreme right. This attack was continued until night set in, and was most handsomely re- pulsed at all points. Our loss on some l)arts of the line is reported severe, but no official report has yet been made. The impression o Page 207 CRAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 the major-general commanding is from what he has seen and knows personally, that our loss is very light, while the rebels have lost many in killed and wounded, and those taken prisoners. General Ward, Twentieth Army Corps, reports having captured 2 stand of colors and many prisoners, and hopes to capture a whole regiment which has got into rather a tight place to get out safely. Major-General Sherman has written a note to the major-general com- mnanding stating that Generals McPherson, Schofield, and Howard, with two divisions of his corps, are pressing on to Atlanta, and at that time (3 p. in.) could not be more than from one mile and a half to two miles and a half distant from the city. If this report of tIme positions of the troops named be as stated, it is expected that we can secure many prisoners on our left, as it will be impossible for them to get away with our force in their rear. Everything has progressed satisfactorily, and the enemy has been gloriously thrashed. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient serv- ant, RORT. H. RAMSEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. JULY 20, 186411 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, ct~c.: A negro, who was taken prisoner with Colonel Streight, has just come in, and, I think, brings reliable information, and, if reliable, is very important, to wit, that Johnston is retreating in haste along the Macon road. A captain who deserted and comes to us, says that Johnston cannot go by the way of West Point, as the gauge is different the other side of the river from this side. The negro says that our operations in the direction of Campbelltou and Moores Bridge caused the greatest stampede; that Jacksons division has gone to the Blue Mountain in Alabama; that he saw Wheeler near Campbell- ton, and that he has his whole force near there and below; that there is imo force in Atlanta but the new issue (militia); that the army is utterly demoralized and easily frightened. The negro says he is in time Eighth Texas iRegimnent, Colonel Harrisons brigade, Huines division. He Imas seen General Johnston often, and a short tinme since had his headquar- ters at white house, four umiles from Atlanta, on or near the railroad; lie wears a broad brim hat, has a gray beard and a dutch looking face; and ~ headquarters were and are always imear by. I send him to you and give you these items in order tlmat by cross-questiommimig he may be detected if he is unreliable; further, that there is no sick or wounded now in Atlanta. He confirms the reports of the rebels strip- ping our men as soon as taken prisoners. Ask him to describe to you Streights surremmder to Forrest. I should like to have him sent back as a guide when we cross time river. We are ready to cross whenever time bridge is finished, or to cross where the bridge now is, and push down the river from Timomas right, which I think we can easily do. Yery respectfully, & c., GJ3ORGE STONEMAN, ]Jiliajor- General Page 208 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. 208 IIDQRS. MILITARY DivisioN OF THE Mississirri, In the Field, July 20, 18648 p. m. Major-General MCPHERSON: DEAR GENERAL: I inclose for your perusal letters from Generals Thomas and Stoneman.* You will see that they are in error. I think our only chance of entering Atlanta by a quick move if possible is lost. Still more good results will flow from your pressing hard and close on your flank than the other, because if you can reach Atlanta with your guns or turn that flank we will capture more prisoners and property than by the other, for it will leave the enemy in a pocket whence they should not escape. We have carried several light lines of rail-pits to- day all along our lines, but have not followed up quick enough, so that I suppose in the morning we will find the remainder made into good parapets. Still do not fail to try them strong and find that flank if you can reach it. I have ordered Thomas to press close into Atlanta, and will see that Schofield and Howard do the same. I have no news later than you have from abroad. Yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. Open up a straight road to Schofield. - HDQRs. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In Field, July 20, 18648.45 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Comdg. Military Div. of the Mississippi: GENERAL: Inclosed I send you sketch of our position to-night.t We have had some pretty lively skirmishing and have driven the enemy from several pretty strong positions, though I do not think there has been much of anything but cavalry in front of us on the left. But they have had four pieces of artillery and are armed with short Enfield rifles, making it difficult at times to dislodge them. Brigadier-General Gresham, commanding Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, was wounded in the leg below the knee by a minie-ball, which shattered the bone, and I am afraid he will lose his leg. I have assigned Brig. Gen. Giles A. Smith to the command of the divisiomi. You will see from the sketch that my left (Blairs command) is in lot 207, and the line runs nearly north, the right breaking to the rear slightly to con- nect with General Schofield. General Garrards headquarters are in Decatur and his command is so disposed as to cover our rear and line of communications back to Roswell. Our losses have been compara- tively light. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. MCPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 20, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee: COLONEL: I have the hommor to state, for the information of the ma- jor-general commanding, that from the best informatiomi I have been * Not fonnd ~s incIcs~:rcs, but ref vuce is prob~b1y to Thomas letter of 12 in., p. 196, and Stoivniaiis of ii a. ut., ~. LOT. -- ITo appear in the Atlas Page 209 Cmu~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 209 able to obtain Wheelers cavalry is on my left and rear and has pa- trols on the Fayetteville road and the other- adjacent roads. If this is so, trains moving out of Decatnr to either corps of this army are ex- posed to attack, as my force is not large enough to protect the flank. Y~ry respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, Jn., Major- General. JIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 20, 1864midnight. General GARRARD, Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: After destroying the bridge at McAfees, which I sup- pose is already done, yon will send to General McPhersons ~uard at the bridge at Roswell your wagons, led horses, and baggage, and pro- ceed rapidly to Co~#ington, on the main wagon and rail road cast, dis- tance about thirty miles froni Decatur. Take the road by Latinmars, touching the railroad at or beyond Lithonia, and thence substantially along the railroad, destroying it effectually all the way, especially the Yellow River bridge this side of Covington, as well as the road bridge over Yellow River, after you have passed. From Covington send detachments to destroy the rail and road bridges east of Coving- ton over the Ulcofauhachee. Try and capture and destroy sonic loco- motives and cars, and the depots and stores at Covington, but of private property only take what is necessary for your own use, except horses and mules, of which you will take all that are fit for service, exercising, of course, some judgment as to the animals belonging to the poor and needy. On your return select your own route but I would suggest that by way of Sheffield, Rock Bridge, and Stone Mountain, or even farther north if you prefer. I want you to put your whole streii gth at this, and to do it quick and well. I know it can be done. By passing Yellow River by thc road bridge, and then f)ushing for the m nhond bridges right and left, the guard will mini or even burn their own hi 1(10 es You ought to catch sonic trains about Covington, as there is no Pile graph to give them timely warning. I believe that time cavalry is mo-41y withdrawn fromu that flank of the enemy, and that you can nidc nough shod over any force there; at all events, it is a muatter of vital mmpor tance and must be attemupted with great vigor. The importance of it will justify the loss of quarter of your command. Be prepared with axes, hatchets, and bars to tear up sections of track and make bonfires. When the rails are red hot they must be twisted. Burning will do for bridges and cuiverts, but not for ordiii ary track. Let the work be well done. The whole thing should be done in two dais, including to-mor- row. I will notify General McPherson that lie may look out for his rear and trains. I am, with respect, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. If the McAfee Bridge is not already burned you can send a inessen- ~er to the guard already there to do it aimd move to Roswell. This need not delay your departure for Covington at once. 14 R uVoL XXXVIII, PT Page 210 210 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. CAi~n o~ PEACH TREE CREEK, GA., July 20, 186410 p. m. (Via Vinings Station. Received 11 a. m. 21st.) Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Washington: Our left has pushed forward to-day to within two miles of Atlanta. Reports that the right has remained nearly in position of last night, thus developing the enemys line and proving that our information was very nearly correct as regarded it. Enemy has assaulted several times to-day, and has been severely repulsed each time. Our casualties light, and everything favorable. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL ) IIDQRS. DEPT~ AND ARMY OF THE TENN., FIELD ORDERS, In Field, three and a half miles from Atlanta, No. 73. ) July 20, 1864. I. In accordance with directions of Major~General Sherman, Briga- dier-General Garrard, commanding cavalry division, will destroy McAfees Bridge across the Chattahoochee River. General Garrard will cover the Roswell depot and protect the trains of this army. II. Corps commanders will cause their several positions to be in- trenched to-night, and will have their commands in line of battle at 3.30 td-morrow morning, ready to repel any attacks of the enemy. * * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. G. A. Smith, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from the command of the First Brigade, Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, and will forthwith report to Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair for assignment to command of the Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Corps. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. James. B. McPherson: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant. General. NEAR ATLANTA, July 21, 1864. (Received 1 p. m. 22d.) ills Excellency President LINCOLN: Your dispatch is received. I have the highest veneration for the law, and will respect it always, however it conflicts with my opinion of its propriety. I only telegraphed to General Halleck because I had seen no copy of the law, and supposed the War Department might have some control over its operations. When I have taken Atlanta and can sit down in some peace I will convey by letter a fuller expression of my views in relation to the subject. With great respect, W. T. SHERMAN, illiajor- General. CITY POINT, VA., July 21, 186410 a. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN: The Richmond Whig of the 20th learns from the Macon Confederate that but little quartermaster or commissary stores remain in At Page 211 Ca~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 211 lanta, all having been removed to safer and more secure points. It also says that it has every reason to hope that Shermans rear will be cnt in the next ten days. General Johnston has been relieved of com- mand and General Hood takes his place, much to the surprise of the army and public; also that this change indicates that there will be no more retreating, but that Atlanta will be defended at all hazards and to the last extremity. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 21, 18648.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 11 a. m. 22d.) Washington, D. 0.: GENERAL: Yesterday at 4 p. m. the enemy sallied from his in- trenchments and fell suddenly and heavily on our line in the direction of Buck Head. The blow fell upon General Newtons division, of Gen- eral Howards corps, and on Generals Wards~ G earys, and Williams divisions, of General Hookers corps, and General Johnsons, of General Palmers. For two hours the fighting was close and severe, resulting in the complete repulse of the enemy with heavy loss in dead and wounded. He left his dead and many wounded in our possesion, we retaining undisputed possession of all the ground fought over. Gen- eral Newton reports he has buried 200 of the eneniys dead, and is satis- fied he wounded at least 11,200. His entire loss is only 100, as his men were partially covered by a rail barricade. At the time of the at- tack General Hooker was in the act of advancing his lines, so that he fought his corps uncovered, in comparatively open ground and on fair terms with the enemy. The contest was very severe. He has buried about 400 of the rebel dead, took 7 colors, and has collected many of the wounded and other prisoners. Hooker thinks the rebel wounded in his front fully equal to 4,000; but I dont like to make guesses in such matters. His own loss will be covered by 1,500. On the whole the result is most favorable to us. To-day we have gained important positions, so that Generals McPherson and Schofield, on the east, have batteries in position that will easily reaeh the heart of the city, and General Howard, on the north, also has advanced his lines about two miles, being within easy cannon-range of the buildings in Atlanta. He compelled the enemy to give up a long line of parapets, which constituted an advance line of intrenchments. The city seems to have a line all round it, at an average distance from the center of the town of one mile and a half but our shot passing over this line will destroy the town, and I doubt if General Hood will stand a bom- bardment; still he has fonght hard at all points all day. I will open on the town from the east and northeast to-morrow, and General Thomas will advance his right from the mouth of Peach Tree Creek so as to cross the railroad to the northwest of the town. I have sent General Garrards cavalry eastward to Covington to break railroad and destroy the bridges on Yellow River and the Ulcofauhachee Creek. In the action yesterday the rebel generals OBranan [11] and Stevens were killed, and among the dead were 3 colonels and many officers. Briga- dier-General Greshain was severely wounded yesterday, but is in no danger of life or limb. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 212 212 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. IIEADQUARTER~ DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 21, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Dirision of the Mississippi: GENERAL: Since my report yesterday evening at 6 p. m. I have ascer- tained that, with the exception of General Gearys division, my loss has been very slight, although exposed to as hot a fire as I have almost ever experienced. The enemy was handsomely repulsed at all points in every attack he made. On General Palmer he assaulted some six or seven times. The same on General Newton. The attack on General Hooker seemed to have been continuous from the time the attack first began until the final repulse about sundown. I passed by General Gearys hospital last evening, and think he must have some 500 to 600 wounded. We took quite a number of prisoners (the exact number has not yet been reported), and General Ward reports that he has captured 2 stand of colors. Orders were given yesterday evening before I left the field to press the enemy again this morning, but I doubt if we can accomplish very much, as he undoubtedly had yesterday strong intrencli- ments in our front. I am, general, very respectfully, yours, & c., GEG. H. THOMAS, - Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. ThLJTARY DIVISION OF THE MississiPPi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 21,1864. Major-General THOMAS, Army of the Cumberland: GENERAL: After leaving you to-day I visited General Palmer and saw his skirmishers advance well to his right flank. I am satisfied the enemy will not attempt to hold Atlanta and the fort at the railroad crossing of the Chattahoochee. There is a weak place in that line, and it can best be reached by advancing General Johnson on the direct road as far as possible and bringing Generals Baird and Davis well up on his right. I do not think the enemy will assume the offensive from the fort on the Chattahoochee, but it may be prndent to let General McCook watch him on both sides of the river. The front of General Hooker is very narrow, but I admit it is the point where your line should be the strongest. General Howards two diviskns in this direction have advanced a good distance over a coml)lete line of the enemys defenses, and I think both Generals Woqd arid Stanley are up to the main line of intrenchments, and that from General Woods right rifled guns can reach the town. The enemy still holds the hill near where General Stanleys left and General Schofields right are, and they keep up an infernal clatter, but it sounds to me like a waste of ammunition. Gen- eral McPherson to-day charged and carried a hill, losing 250 men, but killing some and taking prisoners. From this hill he has an easy range of the town. We will try the effect of shelling to-morrow, and during it you had better make all the ground you can. I do not believe the enemy will repeat his assaults, as he had in that of yesterday his best troops and failed signally. Therefore I dont fear for your right flank. Still, it is well to be prudent Page 213 CHAP. L.] 213 CORRESPONDENCE, E~C.-~UNION. Ours naps are all wrong and the quicker we can get our surveys up and publish the better. I will look to Schofield and McPherson to- morrow. Yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OUMEERLAND, In the Field, July 21, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi.- cTENERAL: Major-General Palmer reports this evening that Briga- dier-General Johnsons reconnaissance, pushing near Johns, resulted in the capture of 29 prisoners from Stewarts corps, Frenchs division, and was checked by artillery from what a very candid seeming prisoner reports was a fortified line. He says Stewarts corps is on that line. Johnson has a strong line half a mile from the artillery. Baird is on his right. General Palmer is satisfied that there is a fortified line from the river along the railroad some distance, thence east along his front and up to that point is held by Stewarts corps. The skirmishing was sharp. Our- loss probably will not exceed 50. 1 have ordered Palmer to fortify Johnsons and Bairds present positions and have them push out again to-morrow as far as they can without bringing on a battle. I have also ordered Brigadier-General MeCook to send a brigade across the river to-morrow morning to relieve General Davis pickets along Peach Tree Creek, and when that is done for Davis to mass his division on Bairds right. Yours, very respectfully, GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.~iReport from General Palmer at 7.30 states that he had a con- versation with Tippen which confirms his previous impression that the rebel works extend to the river and are held in force. The rebel guns were fired yesterday from the high hill that overlooks Atlanta. Prisoners say that our shells yesterday fell into Atlanta, producing great consternation. They also say that General Stevens commandin a brigade, was killed, and not Stevenson. g Davis skirmishers advanced to-day as far as the Marietta and At- lanta road. The enemys skirmish line was formed along the railroad. G. H. T~ HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 21, 18647 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: That portion of the enemys works between the South Fork and the main Peach Tree Creek was evacuated last night. Gen- erals Stanley and Wood moved forward, wheeling to the left until within musketry range of the enemy~s works. The left brigade of Stanleys division, having been close up to that line, did not move. From Gen- eral Woods right the enemys line is visible to the extent of one mile Page 214 214 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. The works seem to have been constructed some time, probably five or six weeks. From Woods right to Newtons left, in a straight line, is about half a mile. Kings brigade is opposite that interval, on the other side of the creek. The casualties in Newtons division were about 100. He has buried iu his front about 200 of the rebel dead. Those between the picket-lilies were buried by the enemy yesterday evening. The division made a gallant fight and deserves unqualified praise. After my report of yesterday evening Colonel Grose took 27 men and 1 captain prisoners from the skirmish rifle-pits of the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]lliajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 21, 18642 p. m. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you relieve General Woods two left regiments by one regiment of your division, placing such regiment behind the works on the other side of the ravine that lies between you and General Wood; also to block up the ravine by felling timber and cutting down underbrush as munch as you can. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 21, 18642 p. m. Brigadier.Gefleral WOOD, Commanding Third Division: Major-General Stanley has been directed to relieve your two left regi- ments by a regiment from his division. The object of this is to give you two regiments with which to strengthen your right. By order of Major.General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Peach Tree 6reelc, Ga., July 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. W D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I have the honor to informn you that the enemy have a continuous line of strong works at the base of the next ridge, about 500 yards in advance of my line. I sent out two regiments to develop the enemy and found that the works were full. They are very strongly con- structed with head-logs, and if not their main line of works are near it Page 215 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 215 I think, as the line was constantly re-enforced. I am unable to find the end of the works on the right or left, and I do not think that an isolated attack with my division would be productive of beneficial results. I am, general, very respectfully, JOHN NEWTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Forwarded by General Thomas to General Sherman, July 21, 1864.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. JOHN NEWTON, Commanding Second Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to acknowl- edge the receipt of your note this morning, and also to say to you that he approves of your action in pushing forward in search of the enemy. The major-general commanding desires you to push up close to him and ascertain, if possible, his whereabouts definitely, but not to run any risk of bringing on a general engagement until your connection with Gen- erals Hooker and Howard is completed. Any advantage that you may gain in pushing forward,the major-general commanding desires you to hold on to by intrenching your troops. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient serv- ant, ROBT. H. RAMSEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 21, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, Hdqrs. Dept. of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that my skirmishers have found the enemy 400 or 500 yards in front of my line in considerable force and occupying a strong position. They are intrenched in substantial works with a top-log, and have a skirmish line in their front. Their force I have not developed in accordance with my instructions not to bring on an engagement nuder present conditions, but it appears to be consider- able, and has been sufficient to check my skirmishers. I am, very respectfully, & c., JOHN NEWTON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. NEWTON, tiommanding Second Division, Fourth Army 6~orps: GENERAL: Yours of this date received. The major-general com- manding says get up as close as you can to the enemys works and in- trench your position. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 216 [CHAP. L. 216 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 21, 18649 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE: GENERAL: Please inform the general commanding that parties have been out on Johnsons front as far as Emorys housethe ground oc- cupied by the enemys artillery on yesterday. Mr. Shaw, of my staff, is now out with a regiment, and will learn where they are. Can I make use of General Davis, or does the order fixing him in his present posi- tion still operate ~? Respectfully, M. PALMER, Major- General. P. S.Light skirmishing half a mile to the front. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 21, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Yours of 9 a. in. received. The major-general commanding thinks that General Davis division should still hold on where he is un- less lie ascertains that the enemy has left his front. He can then ad- vance with the uest of the. Fourteenth Corps, refusing his right flank. in the mean time you can make use of any troops of his division that may he out of line. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIYWION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 21, 1864. Captain McCLuRG, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: Colonel Lnm took possession of and held the enerny~s work opposite Moores liii last evening. All three brigade command- ers have each had a regiment out making reconnaissance since daylight. I have exhausted my patience waiting for reports. We have taken a few prisoners, another major, all belonging to Frenchs division. They report a general movement of the enemy to his right yesterday and last night. I will report as soon as I can hear from the parties on recon- naissance. Very respectfully, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. [Thdorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Peach Tree Creek, Ga., July 21, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, commanding Military Division of the Mississippi, for his information. Just received, and despatched at once. CEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding Page 217 CHAI?. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21Z IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 21, 18647 p. m. Captain MCCLuRG: CAPTAIN: For the information of the general commanding, I liave the honor to state that the reconnaissance made by my troops to-day advanced as far as the Marietta and Atlanta road and threw skirmish- ers beyond it. The enemys skirmish line was found, running along tlie toll road. After remaining on the road some two hours, General Mor- gans skirmishers were driven in and to the Peach Tree Creek by a force estimated at three regiments. These troops came from the enemys works over the railroad near the river. .1 am, very respectfully, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Jndorsement.~ HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 21, 18647.30 p. m. Received Since my return to quarters and forwarded. This report confirms the impression I entertain that the rebel works extend to the river and are held in force. I think my line is safe to the road to Atlanta. I have just had a conversation with Tippen, who says the rebel guns were fired from the high hill which overlooks At- lanta. The prisoners say that shells fell into Atlanta on yesterday, producing great consternation. They also say that General Stevens, commanding a brigade, was killed yesterday, and not Stevensoll. J. M. PALMER, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 21, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Yours received (of 6.30). The major.general command- ing directs that you cause Generals Johnson and Baird to fortify well, and push out again to-morrow as far as they can without bringing on a general engagement. Orders will to-night be sent to Brigadier-Gen- eral McCook to send over a brigade of cavalry to relieve Brigadier- General Davis pickets along Peach Tree Creek to-morrow morning. When that brigade arrives, Brigadier-General Davis division should be massed upon Brigadier-General Bairds right and move forward with the line of the other two divisions, should they not have moved already. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant~ General, IIDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMI3ERLAND, Near Buck Head, Ga., July 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. McCoox Commanding First Cavalry Division: The general commanding directs that you move one brigade of your command across the river early to-morrow morning and relieve Genera Page 218 218 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Davis pickets along Peach Tree Creek, to enable General Davis to move his division on General Bairds left. The brigade will have to start very early in order to arrive at the creek in proper time. They will cross Paces Ferry and take the right-hand road abont three-qnarters of a mile after crossing. Lientenaut Shaw, aide-de-camp, will show them the position they are to occnpy after arriving at the creek. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Durands Mill, South Fork Peach Tree Creek, July 21, 18642.45 p. m. Major.General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have one small brigade in reserve, and there is quite a space between my right and Peach Tree Creek. Hood is great for attacking, and I feel that it is necessary for safety to retain this brigade in a movable condition. The enemy is in strong force throughout my entire front, also opposite the gap between Wood and Newton (the latter on the Buck Head and Atlanta main road). The works plainly visible from my right seem to have been constructed for some time. For the above reasons, if you can excuse me, I would prefer not to ex- tend farther to the left. Respectfully, ~. ~. HOWARD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field near Atlanta, July 21, 18641 a. m. General MCPHERSON, Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have yours of 8.445 last evening, and regret much the wound which will deprive us of the services of General Gresham. I was in hopes you could have made a closer approach to Atlanta yester- day, as I was satisfied you had a less force and more inferior works than will be revealed by daylight, if, as 1 suppose, Hood proposes to hold Atlanta to the death. All afternoon heavy and desperate sallies were made against Thomas, all along his lines from left to right, particularly heavy against Newton and Geary, but in every instance he was roughly handled; considerable firing has been going on all night along How- ards lines, and still continues. To-morrow I propose to press along the whole line, and try to advance Thonias, so that we will command the Chattahoochees east bank, and contract our lines by diminishing the circle. I think to-morrow Hood will draw from his left and re-enforce his right. Nevertheless, I deem it necessary that you should gain ground so that your artillery can reach the town easily; say within 1,000 yards of the inner or main lines. I have ordered Garrard to send to Roswell his wagons and impediments and push rapidly and boldly on the bridges across the Yellow River and Ulcofauhachee, near Coving- ton, to be gone two days. Give orders that in the mean time no trains come up to you from IIoswell. He xvill substantially cover the roa Page 219 CHAP. 4 CORRESPONDEM~E, ETC.UNION. back because all the cavalry in that direction will be driven away, still some sqnads might be left about Stone Monntain, as he will take the direct road from Decatnr to Covington, passing considerably south of Stone Mountain. Order yonr ordnance wagons and those that you may have left abont Decatnr up to yonr immediate rear. I will ride over to Thomas to-morrow morning and would like to hear from you be- fore starting. If at any time you see signs of retreat on the part of the enemy follow up with all possible vigor, keeping to the left or south of Atlanta and following roads that will keep you on that flank. If Hood was as roughly handled by Thomas this afternoon as reported, and in addition the little artillery he has displayed to-day, I would not be astonished to find him oft in the morning, but I see no signs looking that way yet. In case he retreats it will be toward Macon, whither all the advance stores have been sent, and most of the provisions. I want him pursued vigorously for a couple of days. Yours, truly, ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IN THE FIELD, July 21, 18643 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Leggett, commanding Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, advanced his lines and captured a hill, quite a commanding position, this forenoon; also, some 60 prisoners, princi- pally from Cleburnes division. General Leggett is on my extreme left. The Fourth Division (late Greshams) made a demonstration at the same time in favor of Leggett, and the loss in the two divisions is between 260 and 300 killed and wounded. The hill is two and a quarter miles from Atlanta, and a portion of the enemys works around the town are in view. The enemy made one vigorous assault and two feeble attempts to recapture the hill, but were signally repulsed. Since that time he has been moving troops in the direction of our left. General Leggett reports having seen at least ten regiments of infantry passing in that direction. I have strengthened that portion of the line with all the available troops I have got, and I will simply remark in closing, that I have no cavalry as a body of observation on my flank, and that the whole rebel army, except Georgia militia, is not in front of the Army of the Cumberland. Very respeetfally, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, General SHERMAN, July 21 [22], 18644.30 p. m. Commanding: GENERAL: The enemy attacked this morning on our left and rear, and Generals Smith and Leg~ett have been fighting from both sides of the works thrown up last night, repulsing Hardees corps with heavy loss. The enemy have become quiet, and if I had a fresh brigade I could recover all that I have lost and drive the enemy easily. FRANK P. BLAIR, ]ilJajor. General, Commanding Page 220 220 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, In the Field, July 21, 18G4~5.3O p. rn. Maj. Gen. FRANK P. BLAIR, Commanding Serenteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Have your command work industriously strengthening their positiou tonight, so as to make it impregnable against any rebel assault. Call on Brigadier-General Fullers command (Dodges corps) for assistance, if you require it. Have the brush and small trees in front of your intreuchments cut down for a distance of 80 or 100 yards, making a sort of abatis. Impress upon the command the importance of being on the alert at all times to repel an attack, especially about daybreak. Very res~)ectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major. 4~eneral. [Jridorserneiit.] HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, July 21, 1864. Respectfully referred to Brig. Gen. M. P. Leggett, commanding Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, for his information and guid- ance. - General Leggett will please see that these instructions are fully and promptly carried out, and that every eftbrt is made to render his posi- tion as strong as possible. By command of Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant. General. THREE MILES AND A HALF EAST OF ATLANTA, GA., July 21, 1864. Maj. Gen. G. M. DODGE, Commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps: Brigadier-General Garrards cavalry is ordered on an expedition by Major-General Sherman which will occupy them at least two days. This will leave Decatur defenseless, and the way open for a small body of the enemys cavalry to dash into our rear. You will therefore send one brigade of Fullers division to occupy the place, and to picket strongly the roads to the south and east until the return of the cavalry. You will also have your pioneer companies open a road through to General Schofields position in rear of our present line so that we can communicate qnickly if necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 21, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. W. FULLER, 61ommanding Fourth Division: Brigadier-General Garrards cavalry is ordered on an expedition which will occupy them at least two days. This will leave Decatu Page 221 cuAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 221 defenseless and the way open for a small body of the enemys cavalry to dash into onr rear. Send one brigade of yonr division back to occupy the place and to picket strongly the roads to the south and east until the return of the cavalry. Also have your pioneer corps open a road through to General Schofields position, in rear of our present line, so that we can communicate quickly, if necessary. Have the commanding officer of the corps report to Lieutenant-Colonel Tiedemaun for direc- tions. By order of Maj. Gen. G. Al. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- qeneral. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIvIsIoN, Major-General SHERMAN, Decatur, July 21, 1864. Commanding Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your orders last night at 1.30 a. m. At that time one brigade (three regi- ments) was at Cross Keys, ten miles from here ~ direction from three to four miles; one -, vith pickets in every regiment was at McAfees Bridge and 9ne at Roswehl, leaving inc only five regiments, which were all on duty here guarding the roads. I at once took the necessary steps to carry out your instructions, and will leave here during the day, and by traveling to-night make up for the time lost in concentration. My pickets on the roads to the south and east are constantly exchanging shots with rebel cavalry i)ickets, and this morning one of my patrols down the Covington road captured 2 prisoners belonging to a bri- gade camped, when they left it, at Latimars. As your object is to de- stroy the bridges and six or eight miles of road east of Stone Mountain, and as my chance of success is better by varying some from the route indicated, I deem it best to do so. I desire to succeed, as you place so much importance in having it done, and I will endeavor to do it. T would have started with my five regiments here, but my force would have been too weak to tear up railroad. If no misfortune happens I will burn the bridge east of Covington by 12 m. to-morrow, and by doing this first I catch all west of that point. I then propose breaking up everything between the two rivers. Trasting my views may meet your approval, I remaih, very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Capt. C. L. WHITE, KINGSTON, July 21, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General: I have just received word that they have thrown the train off the track and torn down the telegraph hue on Rome road, five miles from here. Have sent out assistance. Think there is no danger of train being burned. Respectfully, J. BANBURY, Colonel, Commanding Page 222 22~ THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. GENERAL THOMAS HEADQUARTERS, Pour miles from Atlanta, July 21, 18647.30 r. m. (Received 11 p. in.) Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Assistant & tperintendent U. $. Military Telegraph: Very little progress to-day, McPherson having gained no ground. General Palmer, on extreme right, has pushed enemy from south bank of Peach Tree Creek, and reached railroad. Skirmishing sharp and lively all day, but no general engagement. We shall bounce them to-morrow. Rousseau has been successful, and has struck railroad between Montgomery and Opelika severelyso say rebel papers. J. C. VAN 1)UZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, llDQns. MIL. Dig. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 40. ) July 21, 1864. The operations of the army to-morrow, July 22, will be as follows: I. Major-Generals McPherson, Schofield, and Howard will open a careful artillery fire on the town of Atlanta, directing their shots so as to produce the best effect, and each commander will endeavor to ad- vance his line if it can be done without a direct assault on the enemy~s parapets if held in force. They will keep their men well in hand to repel assault, or to follow to the enemys main line of intrenchments. II. Major-General Thomas will put the whole or a part of General McCooks cavalry to watch the peninsula between Peach Tree Creek and the Chattahoochee, and will press his lines forward close upon the enemy, endeavoring to advance his right so as to extend across the railroad and main road from Marietta. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRs. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 179. In the Field, July 21, 1864. In compliance with orders from headquarters Department and Army of the Tennessee, Brig. Gem Giles A. Smith is hereby assigned to the command of the Fourth Division of this corps. By command of Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CIJMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Dirision of the Mississippi: GENERAL: In obedience to my orders Howards, Hookers, and Palmers skirmishers felt up to the enemys position and entered his first line of works at 2 a. in., and are now pressing on. Your orders by Colonel Ewing were received by sunrise, and my previous orders modi- fied accordingly. I will now join Palmer and put his head of colum Page 223 (lEAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 on the first road to the north of Atlanta that leads down the river. I have also ordered MeCook over to operate on our flank, and have sent word to Wright to hurry up his railroad and bridge. Very truly and respectfully, G-EO. H. THOMAS, ]iiliajor- General, U. ~. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MissiSsipPi, In the Field, two miles from Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 186111 a. m.~ Major-General THOMAS: GENERAL: We find the enemy in force inside of Atlanta, doubtless in the intrenchments as represented in the blue map as a circle of one mile and a quarter radius. We can see the buildings of town plain. The enemy fires a good deal of artillery, which passes over the house where I am. Schofield and McPherson are deploying and getting guns up, and will soon open a converging fire. I have sent word to floward that we were mistaken in supposing the enemy gone, and have directed to continue his operations against Atlanta on that road. I sent Gen- eral Corse to you to say, also, that my orders sent by Colonel Ewing were predicated on the supposition that Atlanta was given up. I want to hear from your right and front. I suppose Hood has let go the river and will make Atlanta his right and East Point his left, and endeavor to operate on our road with cavalry. I have ordered McPherson to set one corps (Dodges) at work destroying the railroad completely back to and beyond Decatur. I suppose Garrard to be at this time near Yel- low River, and during the day will break the bridges there and beyond. He will be back the day after to-morrow. If the enemy holds on to At- lanta I wish you to press down close from the north and use artillery freely, converging in the town. I ~vill then throw McPherson again on your right to break the Macon road. I would let Stoneman try it, but I hate to base any calculations on the cavalry. McCook might attempt it, but he is not strong enough, for I take it the main cavalry force ot the enemy is now on that flank. Please give me at once the fullest information of the state of matters from the ridge as far toward Atlanta or East Point as you have ascer- tained. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. Our battery on this flank will.open about 1 p. m. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, two miles and a half from Atlanta, Ga., Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, July 22, 18645 p. m. Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: In answer to your note of 11 a. m. to-day, I have the honor to state that my right is on the Turners Ferry and Atlanta road. We have good ground and our batteries are playing upon the fortifica- tions upon the northwest side of the town. We can discover the enem Page 224 224 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. in his fortifications, and also in masses in front of us, his position cov- ered by two intrenched lines of skirmishers. I think my batteries in Hookers line, and perhaps Johnsons, can reach the town but the right being slightly refused to cover the flank the batteries posted there can- not. MeCook will be on Davis right and rear by sunset, if he has executed the orders given him, and we will push on, closing on the enemy, if he remains in his intrenchments, early to-morrow morning. We have taken some prisoners, but have had no serious fighting to.day. The enemy is replying to our artillery fire with much spirit. Yours, very respectfully, GEG. II. THOMAS, illiajor- General, U. ~. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 22, 1864. Col. G. P. BUELL, Commanding Pontoon Train: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you take up the pontoon bridge at Paces Ferry and move down to General Stoneman, to put the bridge across at the point selected by him. After having completed this duty you will please report at these headquarters. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 22, 18645.30 p. m. Col. G. P. BUELL, Commanding Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers (Pontoniers): The major-general commanding countermands the orders given you this morning to move your two bridges to Turners Ferry and report to Major-General Stoneman, and directs that you lay them at Howells Ferry near the railroad bridge. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 18643.15 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The enemy has evacuated his works in front of General Stanley, and he has occupied them. I have no report from General Wood yet. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ilfajor- General, Commandin9 Page 225 Ca& r. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIoN. 225 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 22, 18644.40 a. m. General HOWARD, Fourth Corps: GENERAL: Schofield has reported the enemys main line in his pos- session. Satisfy yourself on this point, and dont enter Atlanta, but join your army in the pursuit south. Yours, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. SECOND DrvJsION, FOURTH AR1~IY CORPS, Brig. Gen. W. ID. WHIPPLE July 22, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I would respectfully inform you that the enemy have left my front, but that I am unable to advance, as General Hooker has cut in ahead of me, and his columns fill the road. Please give me instruc- tions what to do. I am, general, very respectfully, JOHN NEWTON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. P. S.Deserters who came in state that Lorings division was in my front yesterday, occupying the works on the left of the road from the Atlanta road toward the creek. JOHN NEWTON. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, On railroad two miles from Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 186410 a. m. Brig. Gen. JOHN NEWTON, Commanding & eond Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Yours of this date received. The major-general command- ing directs that you report to Major-General Howard and notify him, unless he has already received the order, that lie desires all the Army of the Cumberland to move in this direction. If he cannot move his corps at once, on account of the road being filled by General Hookers column, he will follow that column as soon as possible. Very respectfully, yours, WM. ID. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 186412.30 p. m. Major-General STANLEY: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you place all of your guns in position on your line for the purpose of firing into Atlanta and the forts around the same. Open fire at 3 p. m. All of the bat- teries on your left will open at the same time, Fire southwest, or on 13 R RYOL xxxviii, PT Page 226 226 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. the prolongation of the roads upon which you marched toward the town. General Sherman wishes you to pass word along the lines to your right, to Wood, Newton, Hooker Thomas, & c., that you and the forces to your left will fire, and explain to them the cause of it. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY Coj~ps, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 18645.40 p. m. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Division: The enemys cavalry has passed around McPhersons left, and in ac- cordance with instructions received from department headquarters the general commanding directs that you send two regiments from your division to guard the bridge you built over Peach Tree Creek. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 18648 p. m. General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: Lieutenant-Colonel Fullerton during my absence had directed General Stanley to send two regiments to the crossing of Peach Tree Creek by the Decatur road; but General Stanley having deployed his entire force, taking a portion of General Schofields line, I countermanded the order. I have sent a picket force from each divis- ion to the rear, one to Newtons bridge across Peach Tree Creek, one to the Decatur road, and one to an intermediate point. Since our forces have reoccupied Decatur I presume the necessity for sending the regiments to intercept the rebel cavalry is obviated, and will not send them unless the general commanding thinks best. Respectfully, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 18648 p m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the enemy evacuated his works in my front between 3 amid 4 oclock this morning. Generals Stanley and Wood followed him as soon as it was light, and General Newton soon afterward. They advanced near the enemys new line of works around Atlanta, and after some skirmishing went into line of battle about two miles r0P2 the city. The main line has not been muc Page 227 CHAP. L.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 227 advanced yet. My right connects with General Hooker just on the right of the road running from Buck Head to Atlanta, and my left con- nects with General Schofield on the road that leads to Atlanta, near Hurts house, as marked 011 the map. We have taken 90 prisoners to- day. Since I last reported to you to-day I have been obliged to string out my lines and put some of my reserves in front. Stanleys reserves relieved one of Schofields brigades this evening, so that he (Stanley) has now no troops except those which are in line of battle. Respectfully, 0. 0. hOWARD, Major- General. hEADQUARTERs FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 22, 18644.30 a. mu, Brig. Gen. W. I). WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General: GENERAL: Johnsons pickets at about 2 oclock entered the enerny~s works on his front. They are described as very solid and reported to be continuous. Parties are being pushed forward to develop the enemys position, and Johnsons division is probably by this time in the rebel works. May I ask that King be ordered to join his division at once. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, ]Jfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, (Jommanding Fourteenth Army,i Corps: GENERAL: The enemy has evacuated Atlanta and his works around that place. The major-general commanding (lirects that you })11511 on in pursuit in a southwesterly direction by the first road leading from your right, endeavoring to keep about three miles north of the Montgomery railroad. General Hooker will be on your left, if a road cau be found upon which he can march running north of Atlanta. Yours, yery respectfully, WM. D. WHJPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, July 22, 18~45 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of & aff: GENERAL: My troops occupy the main line of the enemys works in my front. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH HOOKER, Major. General, Gommanding Page 228 228 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTiVEENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: The enemy has evacuated his works around Atlanta. The major-general commanding directs that you push on in pursuit by a road, if one can be found, running between the columns of Generals Palmer and Howard. General Palmer has been ordered to move in a southwesterly direction by road running from about his right, and General Howard by road running near Atlanta, but north of it aud in the same direction as General Palmer. All our troops and Geueral schofields move north by Atlanta. Yours, very respectfully, M~. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. L. ELLIOTT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: The cuemy has evacuated Atlanta. The major-general commanding directs me to say that you will order General MeCook to take his command across the Chattahoochee at Paces Landing, and then take the road down the river, crossing Peach Tree Creek at Moores Mill, and follow the river road, cove ring the right flank of our army as it moves in pursuit. After he gets his troops in inotiou addi- tional orders will be sent him at Moores Mill. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. HAMSEY, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, July 22, 1864. General W. L. ELLIOTT, Chief of Cavalry: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I found the enemy in suf- ficient force at the junction of this road and the Mason and Turners Ferry road to check me. They had both infantry and artillery and I was unable to get my artillery in position to reply. It was too late for me to make a good fight. I will try it in the morning. I am, I think, about four or five miles to the right of the infantry, and will get com- municatiou some time during the night. E. M. MeCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. IN THE FIELD, July 22, 186411 oclock. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE, - Chief of AS1taff, Department oJ the Cumberland: 1 cannot tell whether I will nee(i re-euforcemeuts until I try the enemy in the morning. The reason I suppose the force opposed to m Page 229 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 229 is infantry, is based upon information received from citizens and the fact that nothing but dismounted men and artillery opposed my ad- vance, and there were no horse tracks to indicate cavalry. I omitted to say in the dispatch I sent this evening the reason why I was too late for a decided attack this afternoon was that the enemy had torn up the bridge across the creek. My men had to get on their flank and drive them from the other side before the bridge could be repaired. sufficiently for me to cross. I have a patrol from the right of my line to the river every hour. It has just been reported to me from the skirmish line that the enemy are chopping and building works very industrionsly; If I find their works formidable, I of course will make no assault unless ordered to do so by the general commanding. I will not, however, be kept back by any slight obstacles. They do not form a continuous line. With the infantry right I have been unable to make any connection. The country is too broken and the woo(ls too dense for mounted men to pass through, except on roads. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRs. CIJIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, Near AtIt~nta, Ga., July 22, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER BRIGADE, FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION: As the enemy have evacuated Atlanta, the general commanding directs that you follow up the movement of the right flank of the army until General McCook comes up. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Major-General SHERMAN, efuly 22, 18643 a. m. Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: The enemy has abandoned his works in front of General lilascall, and our skirmishers now occupy them. I will send forward a reconnaissance at daylight. Respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Brig. Gen. M. S. HASCALL, July 22. 18643.30 a. m. Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you make a recon- naissance on the road until you find the whereabouts of the enemy. As soon as the general is informed of the condition of affairs on the right he will send you the information. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 230 230 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, July 22, 18615 a. m. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General: MAJOR: The lines in our front are also found to be evacuated, our skirmishers going into them without hinderance. Three deserters have come in, reporting that they left early in the night. They know noth- ing of the force to the right or left of Hoods corps, to which they be- longed, nor whether the intention was to go beyond Atlanta. Very respectfully, & c., ~. D. COX, I~rigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 22, 18645.30 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. P. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Your dispatch of 5 a. m. received. ilascall has been or- dered to move forward on the road until he finds the enemy or reaches Atlanta, and the commanding general desires you to follow and Sul)- port him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and As8istant Adjutant- General. [JULY 22, 1864]5.30 p. in. Major.General SCHOFIELD: General Dodge has called On me for assistance, and I am obliged to scud Barter to him, leaving but one brigade here, General Logan hav- ing directed me to do this, if called on. I am three-fourths of a mile in front and left of Dodge, and they ask for Barters brigade, because they say his left is threatened. This will indicate that my position with the remaining brigade is not very secure. No change in front since Colonel Hartsuff left. Yours, & c., J. D. COX, Brigadier- General. My present position was shown me by General Logan, and is in itself good enough, if connected with any one. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864 S.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the ]kLississippi: GENERAL: Colonel Reilly reports that he has made a personal recon- naissance of Decatur; that the trains have all passed inside of our lines; that there is no rebel force at Decatur, and has been none but Page 231 CHAP. L. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 231 small body of cavalry. I hope General Cox will be permitted to re- turn to-night, even if he has to relieve Woods division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD Commanding Army of the Ohio: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to say the relief of Coxs division by Woods, as suggested by your letter, meets his ap- proval, and may be made to-night. General Logan, who is here, will call on you and arrange the move. I am also directed to order Captain Poe to take your engineer battalion and construct a bridge over the creek at Durands (Williams) Mill, which will be on the most direct road to Powers Crossing. I am, general, yours, respectfully, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de-Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general directs me to inform you that it has been decided, after consultation with Generals Sherman and Logan, to relieve your two brigades by General Woods division, and put you in General Woods present position ou General Hascalls left. General Logan will arrange the details of the tuovement, which will l)e carried out to-night. Colonel Reilly will remain in his present posi- tion, at least until morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In the Field, July 22, 18646 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Loc~AN Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The enemy having evacuated their works in front of our lines, the supposition of Major-General Sherman is that they have given up Atlanta and are retreating in the direction of East Point. You will immediately put your command in pursuit, passing to the south and east of Atlanta, without entering the town. You will keep a route to the left of that taken by the enemy, and try to cut off a por- tion of them while they are pressed in rear and on our right by Generals Schofield aimd Thomas. Major-General Sherman desires and expects a vigorous pursuit. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major- General Page 232 [CHAP. L. 232 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. IHDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNE~5EE, July 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Comnwnding, & c.: DEAR SIR: I have seen all the corps commanders since I left youi~ headquarters and made the best dispositions I could of the troops of the Army of the Tennessee. I find one division of the Seventeenth Corps somewhat despondent, but think they will hold their position; have sent them three fresh regiments to support them in holding the hill that I think is the key-point to my whole position. Some prisoners, who havejust come iuside of onr picket-lines in General Dodges front, re- port themselves froill Hoods corps (now Cheathams), which they report moving to our left, in order to attack in the morning; they say Atlanta is held by militia, and that Polks old corps is on our extreme right, west of Atlanta. This statement may not be true, but I am inclined to think it is true from all that I have learned from other prisoners. The note to you from General Schofield giving you the informatiou that there was nothing but a small force of cavalry in Decatur to-day, would somewhat do away with my impression about the force were it not for Colonel Spragues report to General Dodge. He reports that he was attacked by a large force, and had lost nearly 400 men killed, wounded, and captured, as General Dodge informs me. I give you this informa- tion all as I get it, that you may judge from all information that you may get as to where troops of the enemy are and what their intentions are. Yery respectfully, JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General. CAMP ON RAILROAD, Four miles from Atlanta, July 22, 18649 p. m. Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Superintendent U. S. Military Telegraph: At dayhi~ht to-day it was found that the rebels had gone from entire front, and General Sherman. announced the occupation of Atlanta by Schofield, and ordered pursuit by Thomas and McPherson. Yigorons pursuit was made, and the enemy was found in the fortifications of At- lanta, and not Schofield. We hold road to within two miles and a half of center of place, and that is about the average distance of whole line, though Schofield and Dodge are nearer. Fighting has been severe, and we have lost General McPherson, killed by shot through lungs while on a reconnaissance. It is thought that enemy will be gone in the morn- ing, as they Have attacked and been repulsed since dark. Hood fights his graybacks desperately. ~. ~. VAN DUZER, Cipher Operator, U. S. Milita~y Telegraph. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., In the Field near Atlanta, Ga., No. 41. ) July 22, 1864. The enemy having to-day withdrawn into his intrenchments at At- lanta, and having assaulted our left, the following general plan will be observed for to-morrow, July 23, 1864: I. All the armies will intrench a strong front on their present lines and will hold in reserve as much infantry as possible for offensiv Page 233 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETchUNION. 233 operations. Good batteries will be constructed for the artillery and a steady fire kept up ou the city of Atlanta. IL The trains will be kept behind the main center (Major-General Howards corps) or close up to their own reserves, and in the event of the enemy assaulting at any point all others should assault the enemy to their immediate front. By carrying any one point of the enemys present line his whole position becomes untenable. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. Appearances indicate that the enemy have only a strong rear-guard between us and Atlanta, but this we do not know positively, hence all the divisions should be held in condition for an obstinate defense in case of an assault. The First Division will have one brigade in reserve, and that should be posted as near the right of the line as practicable, as that rests on one of the main roads leadinp iuto Atlanta. The major-general com- manding suggests that a battery or two be placed in position for de- fending the approach by the Howells Mill road. He also requests that the communication by the road along the ridge be kept open in order that we may have easy and quick communication between the right and left of our line. In his opinion Atlanta will be abaudonded to-night, and he desires that the pickets may be directed to keep on the alert that they may be informed of the earliest movements of the enemy in their retreat, and to follow them as far as Atlanta in case they should with- draw from before our front. It will be a great compliment to the Twentieth Corps to have it said that it was the first to enter Atlanta. Very respectfully, yours, H. W. PEI~KINS, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE No. 3. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. In pursuance of instructions from Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, com- manding Military Division of the Mississippi, I hereby ~issume com- mand of the Army of the Tennessee in the field. The department staff will remain unchanged, and reports and returns will be made as here- tofore. JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 75. ) Near Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864. * * * * * * * II. Brigadier-General Woods, commanding First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, will relieve Brigadier-General Cox, commanding a divisio Page 234 (CHAP. L. 234 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. of the Twenty-third Army Corps, immediately, one brigade being relieved at a time; the brigades of General Cox marching from his present position to take np a position on the left of General Schofields conimand to connect with General M. L. Smith, comm anding Second Division Fifteenth Army Corps. The movement will be made by brigade until the whole division of General Cox is relieved. 2. The entire command will be intrenched in its present position, which will be held at all hazards, especially the hill occupied by Major- General Blair. 3. The trains of this command will be kept behind the main center (Major-General Howards command) or close up on their own reserves, and in case the enemy assault at any one point all other corps will at once assault the enemy in their immediate front. 4. This entire command will be under arms at 3.30 oclock to-morrow morning, prepared for any emergency. 5. Corps commanders will be held responsible that their commands are amply supplied with ammunition, and caissons and cartridge.boxes will be replenished to-night. By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- Geru3ral. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 23, 186410.30 a. m. (Received 6 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. 0.: Yesterday morning the enemy fell back to the intrenchments proper of the city of Atlanta, which are in a general circle of a radius of one mile and a half and we closed in. While we were forming our lines and selecting positions for batteries, the enemy appeared suddenly out of the dense woods in heavy masses on our extreme left, and struck the Seventeenth Corps (General Blairs) in flank, and was forcing it back, when the Sixteenth Corps (General Dodges) came up and checked the movement, but the enemys cavalry got well to our rear and into Decatur, am~d for some hours our left flank was completely enveloped. The fighting that resulted was continuous until night, with heavy loss on both sides. The enemy took one of our batteries (Murray~s, of the Reg- ular Army) that was marching in its place in column on the road unconscious of danger. About 4 p. mu. the enemy sallied agaiiist the division of General Morgan L. Smith, which occupied an abandoned line of rifle-trenches near the railroad, east of the city, and forced it back some 400 yards, leaving in his hands for the time two batteries, but the ground and batteries were immediately after recovered by the same troops, re-enforced. I cannot well approximate our loss, which fell heaviest on the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps, but count it 3,000; but I know that, being on the defensive, we have indicted equally heavy loss on the enemy. General McPherson, when arranging his troops, about ii a. in., and passing from one column to another, unconsciously rode upon an ambuscade without apprehension and at some distance ahead of his staff and orderlies and was shot dead. His body was sent in charge of his personal staff back to Marietta ai~d Chattanooga. His loss at that moment was most serious, but General Logan at once arranged the troops, and had inunediate direction of theni during the rest of the day. Our left, though refused somewhat, is still within eas Page 235 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ci~. ta 235 cannon-range of Atlanta. The enemy seems to man his extensive para- pets and, at the same time, has to spare heavy assaulting columns; but to-day we will intrench our front lines, which will give me troops to spare to meet these assaults. I cannot hear of the loss of more than a few wagons, taken by the enemys cavalry during his temporary pause in Decatur, whence all the trains had been securely removed to the rear of the main army, under cover of a brigade of infantry, commanded by Colonel Sprague. During the heavy attack on the left, the remainder of the line was not engaged. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 23, 1864. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, (Received 4 ~. in.) Washington, D. C.: General Rousseau reports from Marietta yesterday his safe return from Opelika, having destroyed that depot, 30 miles of railroad toward Montgomery, 3 miles toward Columbus, and 2 toward West Point. His entire loss 12 killed and 30 wounded. He brings in 400 mules and 300 horses. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 18642 a. m. Major-General THOMAS, Army of the Cnrnberland: GENERAL: I have heard of General Rousseaus return to Marietta. Please order him at once to relieve General Stoneman on the other side of the river, and let General Stoneman come to me with his whole force. Please send the inclosed order for me at once. The attack on our left to-day has been desperate and persistent, and the losses Oil both sides quite heavy. I want you to relieve it to-morrow by an actual attack or strong demonstration on the right. I will send you word early in the day, f it is renewed. I suppose it will be kept up as long as General Garrard is out. I want General Stoneman to move out to General Gar- rards relief. You can use Generals McCook and Rousseau on your right. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. [inelosure.] HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 18642 a. m. General ROUS SEAU, Marietta: Your dispatch is received, and you have done well. I hate to call on you so soon for more service, but time is pressing. I want you to move down right away to the railroad bridge and relieve General Stoneman Page 236 (CHAP. L. 236 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. who is watching the Chattahoochee below Turners Ferry. He will de- scribe to you the country and what is needed. I want him relieved as soon as possible, that he may come over here. I hope to see you in a few days. Jam, & e., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 23, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN Commanding Military Dirision of the Mississippi: GENERAL: Your order of last night is being carried out by my troops to-day. The enemy appears to be feeling my right and rear~ but in what force I cannot ascertain, as General McCook cannot ascertain on account of the difficulties of the ground. General Rousseau has received the order to move his force to Turners Ferry, though the movement will be somewhat delayed by his having left Marietta to visit you before the order reached him. It was sent by telegraph also, but as he had left Marietta at daylight this morning he did not receive the order before reaching my headquarters. Very respectfully, GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, July 23, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0.0. HOWARD, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Your note of 8 p. in. was received last night. The major- general commanding says that it will not be necessary for you to send two regiments to intercept the rebel cavalry. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDRS. MILITARY DIvIsION OF THE MississiPPi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864. General STONEMAN, ~ Ferry: I sent an order for you to send a brigade of cavalry at once. I have just learned that General Rousseau has arrived at Marietta from Opelika and have ordered him to relieve you. Have all your men ready to start the moment General Rousseau comes. Turn over to him your instruc- tions and the use of your pontoon train that he may cross over at Turners the monient his horses are rested and General Thomas orders him. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 237 C11AI~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 237 HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, Turner and Ma8ons Ferry Road, July 23, 18648.30 a. m. Lieut. D. F. How: My command drove the rebels away from here this morning. The force in my front was Jacksons division. I got the report of effective force of one brigade, Harrisons, arid it numbered 1,618 men. So I judge the division is strong, which is confirmed by prisoners taken. I will open communication with General Davis as soon as possible. It is about a mile from here to the river. I sent the dispatch to General Stoneman across. Very respectfully, E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 18648 p. m. Major.General SCHOFIELD, commanding Army of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have examined our line of circumvallation, and have no fear of the enemy even attempting to test its strength. But until we get our cavalry in hand and position, I will not attempt anything serious. You may therefore keep things statu quo, and look only to your supplies of food and ammunition. I have seen Geiieral Rousseau, and am satisfied he has made a break that cuts off Alabama for a month, and he has brought us in pretty fair condition some 2,~OO additional cavalry. I am, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, lllajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, B~Jore Atlanta, July 23, 1864. Colonel CAMERON, Commanding AS1econd Brigade: SIR: You will occupy the lines on the left of Colonel Barters bri- gade, which General Woods will leave, putting in your whole command in one line, if necessary, to fill them. Then let working parties strengthen and thicken the parapet from the outside, and put in chev- aux-de-frise and such abatis, & c., as you can, putting the works in the best condition and holding them at all hazards. 1 expect to have at least one brigade in reserve ready to support either you or Barter, though I have not yet got it relieved. I will see you in an hour, or two at furthest, after seeing General Schofield, getting some breakfast, and changing my horse. Very respectfully, & c., J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, En the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 18648 p. in. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN Commanding Army o~ the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have this moment returned from an examination of our entire I~ue. ~ou Jinow your own. The balance extends in a circle a Page 238 238 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. about 1,000 yards distant from the enemys lines, as far as Proctors Creek, the whole of Palmers corps being east and south of the rail- road. All have covered their fronts with parapets so that the enemy will not attempt a sally. The question now is~ What next~ I will in person explain all that is necessary to produce the result aimed at as soon as General Garrard returns. You need not apprehend a renewal of the attack on the part of the enemy, but should, on the contrary, begin to feel ont with skirmishers and supports into the woods east of Giles Smiths division and Dodges corps. In the morning early let Woods division move into Decatur, stay awhile, and i etnrn. Let details of men and pioneers begin at yonr very front and break up and destroy the railroad absolutely back to and including Decatur. Until we con- clnde npon the best manner of reducing Atlanta we cannot be better employed than in rendering the Atlanta and Augusta road useless; especially have the iron rails heated and twisted. I want your skir- mishers to feel out early to-morrow in front of Dodge for a double pur- poseto hold on that flank the cavalry of Wheeler, while we operate on Thomas flank and create a diversion for Garrard, now on his return from his expedition. I am, with respect, your obedient servant, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MissIssiPPi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Jnly 23, 186411.45 p. rn. Major.General LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I am directed by the general commanding to say that he prefrrs not to give orders as regards iRoswell until he hears further from the cavalry; in the mean time let your wagons go to the railroad via Paces Ferry and load at Vinings Station or Marietta such forage as you may need. The general understood yesterday that you had four days supply. I am, with much respect, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Ga., July 23, 1864. Major.General LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: Colonel Sprague has taken up position on the left of Colonel Smiths brigade, of General Woods division, He does not consider the position in Decatur a safe one, as the force in front and on his flank is evidently two divisions of cavalry; captured dispatches show this. He now covers road leading from main Atlanta road to Schofields rear, and says Col- onel Reillys brigade, of Twenty-third Army Corps, is on the road leading out of IRoswell road to schofields rear. G. M. DODGE, 3liajor. General Page 239 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 239 HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARiVEY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864. Lieut. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General: Sergeant Chulds, Fourteenth Ohio Battery, came through to-day from Marietta, passing through iRoswell at 2 p. m. All our trains were there with light guard. On the direct road to 1)ecatur he passed one wagon belonging to the Seventeenth Corps, loaded with grain, burning. He came through Decatur; saw no rebels, but heard of them off the road. It appears to me that our trains are in great danger. They had not received any orders and did not know what to do. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major- General, Commanding. JULY 23, 1864. Colonel CAPRON, Commanding Caralry Brigade: Bring your command to the cross-roads, leaving a pretty strong picket guard (say ThO or 200 men) at the bridge, and send a staff-officer to report to me the arrival of your command. The enemy is very active at Turners Ferry. Very respectfully, & c., STONEMAN, General, Commanding. CAMP THREE MILES NORTH OF ATLANTA, July 23, 1864.li p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: Enemy has been less active to-day, attacking only in front of Am~ny of the Cumberland, and being engaged in burying dead on ground of yesterdays fight under flags of truce. General Logan commands Army of the Tennessee, and Morgan L. Smith takes time Fifteenth Corps. Our loss in yesterdays battleof artillery, 8 guns; about 30 wagons, and 200 prisoners. As I write our heavy artillery is at work, and large fires are burning in Atlanta, supposed to be the enemy destroying stores preparatory to evacuating. J. C. VAN DUZER, Cipher Operator, U. S. Military Telegraph. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS? BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., No. 76. July 23, 1864. * * * * * * VII. Brig. Gen. M. L. Smith, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will direct General Woods, commanding First Division of his corps, to move into Decatur at 5 oclock to-morrow morning, leaving along his works a heavy line of skirmishers. After remaining a while in Decatur he will return and occupy his position. General Smith will also direct details of men from General Woods division and the pioneers from his com- mand to commence at the extreme front of the line and destroy effectu- ally the railroad to and including Decatur, the ties to be taken up, the rails placed upon them and bent and twisted while burning, so as to prevent any farthei~ use of the road. All details of soldiers will be sen Page 240 [CHAP. L. 240 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. armed, prepared for any attack of the enemy. General Woods will pro- tect as far as possible all details employed in the destruction of the railroad. Should General Dodge be attacked, General Woods will fall upon the flank of the enemy and punish him. 2. Major-General Dodge will dfrect the skirmishers of his command to feel out at daylight to-morrow morning, thus keeping the enemys cavalry on our left flank and at the same time securing a diversion while an attack is being made on the flank of General Thomas and protecting the return of General Garrard from his cavalry expedition. The skir- mish line will be careful to keep its right flank connected with General Blairs pickets and will be cautioued against any attempt of the enemy to break through, to cut them off from the main line. * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY Coins, No. 1. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864. In pursuance of instructions from Major-General Logan, command- ing Department and Army of the Tennessee, the undersigned hereby assuin~s command of the Fifteenth Corps. MORGAN L. SMITH, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 18643 p. m. (Received 9.50 p. in.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: On making up reports and examining the field, I find the result of Hood~s attack on our left more disastrous to the enemy than I reported. Our loss will not foot up 2,000 killed and wounded, whereas we have found over 1,000 rebeis dead, which will make, with the usual propor- tion of wounded, a loss to the enemy of full 7,000. General Garrard has also returned, perfectly successful, having completely destroyed the two large bridges near Covington, forty miles toward Augusta, ~brought in 200 prisoners and some good horses, and destroyed the public stores at Covington and Conyers, including 2,000 bales of cotton, a locomo- tive, and a train of cars. Our communications are yet all safe, and the army in good condition in all respects. As soon as my cavalry rests I propose to swing the Army of the Tennessee round by the right rapidly and interpose betweeiii Atlanta and Macon, the only line open to the enemy. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 18643 p. m. (Received 10 p. in.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: The sudden loss of McPherson was a heavy blow to me. I can hardly replace him, but must have a successor. After thinking over the whole matter, I prefer that Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard be ordered to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. If this meets the Presi- dents approval, notify inc by telegraph, when I will put him in coin Page 241 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 mand, and name others to fill the vacancies created. Logan, as senior, commands the Arniy of the Tennessee for the present. After we have taken Atlanta I will name officers who merit promotion. In the mean time, I request that the President will not give increased rank to any officer who has gone on leave from sickness or cause other than wounds in battle. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864. General L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: GENERAL: It is my painful duty to report that Brig. Gen. James B. McPherson, U. S. Army, major-general of volunteers and commander of the Army of the Tennessee in the field, was killed by a shot from ambus- cade about noon of yesterday.* At the time of this fatal shot he was on horseback, placing his troops in position near the city of Atlanta, and was passing by a cross-road from a moving cGlumn toward the flank of troops that had already been established on the line. He had quitted me bat a few moments before and was on his way to see in person to the execution of my orders. About the time of this sad event the enemy had sallied from his intrenchments around Atlanta and had, by a circuit, got to the left and rear of this very line and had begun an attack which resulted in serious battle, so that General McPherson fell in battle, booted and spurred, as the gallant knight and gentleman should wish. Not his the loss, but the countrys, and the army will mourn his death and cherish his memory as that of one who, though comparatively young, had risen by his merit and ability to the com- mand of one of the best armies which the nation had called into exist- ence to vindicate its honor and integrity. History tells ns of but few who so blended the grace and gentleness of the friend with the dignity, courage, faith, and umanliness of the soldier. His public enemies, even the men who directed the fatal shot, neer spoke or wrote of him with- out expressions of marked respect; those whom he commanded loved him even to idolatry, and I, his associate and commander, fail in words adequate to express my opinion of his great worth. I feel assured that every patriot in America oa hearing this sad news will feel a sense of personal loss and the country generally will realize that we have lost not only an able military leader but a man who, had he survived, was qualified to heal the national strife which has been raised by ambitious and designing men. His body has been sent North in charge of Major Willard, Captains Steele and Gile, his personal staff. I am, with great respect, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. THOMAS HEADQUARTERS, July 24, 1864. Major-General ScHOFIELD: I had Stanley prepare for any movement of the enemy which might result from your reconnaissance. Have not heard from him yet; will send you his report. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. He was killed July 22. 16 R RVOL XXXVIII, PT Page 242 [CHAP. L 242 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. CHATTAHOOCHEE BRiDGE, GA., July 24, 1864. General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: Both lily bridges are completed. The other train is here, and have one bridge almost completed. All the bridges are just below the mouth of Peach Tree Creek. Good roads on both sides of the river. iRespeetfally, GEO. P. BUELL, Commanding. HDQRS. FIRST Div. CAY., DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 24, 1861. Lieut. D. F. How, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that the enemys cavalry made a demon- stration against my line yesterday evening. They were repulsed; our loss 6. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. M. MuCOOK, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. MT T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: I have the honor to state the brigade of cavalry from General Stone- mans command, which, by information from you of last evening, was to report to me this morning, has not yet reported. It is necessary that trains with forage and rations should be brought forward from IRoswell. You are aware that I have no cavalry at my disposal, nor is it practi- cable to take a sufficient force of infantry from the lines as a guard to bring up the trains. Shall the IRoswell depot be abandoned and all the trains brought forward under guard there stationed, and shall the bridge be destroyed ~ Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. A. LOGAN, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commandin~q Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have pretty well surveyed the whole position, and by the aid of maps and my own observations think I understand the case pretty well. Our lines are now strong in front, and we compass Atlanta from the railroad on the east to the railroad west. The enemy, having failed in his assault on your flank before it was covered by any defen- sible works, and having sustained most serious loss, will not again attempt it, but will await our action. I now inclose you a map* made Not found Page 243 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 243 by General Schofields engineers, which shows the roads to your present right rear. I sent Captain Poe to see you this morning, but from what Captain Hickenlooper says I think I may have failed to convey to you my right meaning, which is this: The only object in placing the Army of the Tennessee on that flank was to reach and destroy the railroad from Atlanta toward Augusta. That is partially done, and the work of destruction should be continued as far as possible. I wish you to keep one division or more employed day and night in breaking and burning the road ufttil General Garrard returns. I feel no doubt but that he has succeeded in breaking the bridges across the Yellow River and the Ulcofanhachee, but heinay have to fight his way back, and to relieve him I wish you to push your skirmishers out from General Dodges front of General Blairs left, as though you were going to push your way to the east of Atlanta toward the Augusta road. To keep up this delusion, you should scud a column cautiously down one of those roads or valleys southeast, and en gage the enemy outside his works, but not behind his trenches. As soon as General Garrard is back you cau discontinue all such demonstrations and prepare for your next move. I propose to give you timely notice to send your wagons behind General Thomas and theu to move your army behind the present line to the extreme right, to reach, if possiLie, the Macon road, which you know to be the only road by which Atlanta can be supplied. This will leave General Schofield the left flank, which will be covered by the works he has constructed on his front, and he can use the abandoned trenches of the enemy to cover his left rear. You will no longer send your wagons by Roswell, but by Buck Head and Paces Ferry, and when you change you will draw from the railroad bridge, to which our cars now run, and at which point we are making a pier bridge, as also two of pontoons. General Stoneman will surely be at Decatur to-day, and we will have two divisions of cavalry on our right~ viz, General McCooks and [Colonel] Harrisons (General Rous- seaus). Act with confidence. Know that the enemy cannot budge you from your present ground, and act offensively to show him that you dare him to the encounter. You can understand that being on the defensive he cannot afford to sally unless at great peril. General Schofield has so strengthened his front that I feel no uneasiness about that flank, and only study now to make the next move so quickly that we may reach East Point or vicinity with as little loss as possible. My headquarters are now behind General Howards corps, General Newtons division, on the main Marietta and Atlanta road, which crosses the Chattahoochee at Paces Ferry and passes through Buck head. I am at a large white house near the enemys old line of intrenchments, a prolongation of the same which passes from where I saw you yesterday by General Schofields position. I have just heard that General Garrard is back. Go on breaking that road good. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Conunanding. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp: I respectfully request that the Third Brigade, Fourth Division, Six. teenth Army Corps, now at Decatur Ala., be ordered to join this com- mand. The two divisions, comprising four brigades present (two t Page 244 244 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. each division), have lost in killed and wounded alone some 2,000 men, and the detaching two brigades, together with the loss from sick- ness, has reduced the command from 12,500 effective, which it started with, to some 6,000. Olie brigade, 1,800 strong, is at Rome, Ga., and one at Decatur, Ala. if either brigade or both could join me it would give us a valuable addition to the army. There are also detached the First Alabama Cavalry at Rome and the Ninth Ohio Cavalry at De- catur, besides some three regimeiits of colored troops belonging to this command, which makes those absent and without the command fully equal to the present. If it is possible, under the exigencies of the service, I trust the general commanding the Military Division of the Mississippi will order up a portion of my command. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, ]iliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SEYENTEE~TH ARMY CoRps, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, A. D. C. and A. A. A. G., Mil. Div. of the MissiSsippi: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to represent for the information of the major-general commanding the Division of the Mississippi that this corps was reduced when I assumed command of it to about 10,000 effective men by leaving the stromigest division at Yicksburg. Upon my arrival at Allatoona I left one brigade and two batteries, number- ing about 1,200 men, to guard the depots at that place. Since that time, in the various actions in which the corps has been engaged, it has lost about 3,000 men, leaving me an effective force of only some 6,000. Under these circumstances I would most respectfully request that that portion of this corps which was left at Allatoona, and which is now sta- tioned at Kenesaw Mountain, may be relieved by somne other command and ordered to report to me for duty as soon as practicable. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General. HDQRN. 116TH ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, Before Atlammta, Ga., July 24, 1864. Colonel CLARK Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the Tennessee: SIR: I have the honor of forwarding to yon a stand of rebel colors captured by Lient. Samuel R. Riggs, commanding Company E of this regiment, on the 22d of July, 1864. The circumustances are as follows: The regiment I have the honor to command was ordered to the left of the Sixteenth Armny Corps. Immediately on its arrival there I was ordered back by Colonel Martin, commanding First Brigade, Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps. I was informed that the enemy had taken our works and that they must be retaken. I was ordered to form my regimnent on the right of the Sixth Missouri Infantry, to charge the enemy, and drive them from our works. When within fifty yards of the works, a rebel officer with the colors of his regiment and five of his men crossed the works, forming them on this side, and trying to get the balance of his command over. I then asked Lieutenant Riggs if h Page 245 CHAP. L.] CORRE8PONDENCE, E TC.UNION. 245 could take that stand of colors with his company. He answered, I can. So with five of his men he charged them, killiiig the officer (a captain), capturing the colors and color bearer, and wounding 2 of the color guard. I will also forward you the names of the men who are entitled to the honors of helping to capture the flag: Jacob Cross, Eliphalet Greely, Joseph Goodwin, Corpl. N. Sprague, and Corpl. I. W. Rittenhouse. If consistent, I would most earnestly request that the colors be returned to Lieutenant Riggs as a reward of his bravery. I am, sir, your obedient servant, J. S. WINDSOR, Commandinq 116th Illinois infantry. [JULY 24, 1864.For Garrard to Sherman, reporting results of raid to Covmngton, see Part II, p. 809.1 HDQRS. MILITARY DiVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 18642 p. m. General GARRARD, Decatur: GENERAL:- I am rejoiced to hear that you are back safe and success- fmml. General Rousseau has brought me 2,500 good cavalry, having beeu to Opelika and destroyed thirty miles of road between West Point amid Montgomery. I will give you time to rest ~mn(l then we must make quick work with Atlanta. I await your report with impatience, and in the mean time tender you the assurance of my great consideration. Your friend, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. TuRn DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY Coi~~s Cartersriile, Ga., July 24, 1864. Col. BENJAMIN D. DEAN, Twenty-sixth Missouri Infantry: SIR: You will move with your conunand to Kingston, Ga., and relieve the Fifth Iowa Infantry, stationed on the Etowah River, and will assume command of the post of Kingston and Third Brigade, Third Division, Fif- teenth Army Corps, relieving Col. J. Banbary, who will report to his regiment for duty. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: C. L. WHiTE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, in the Field, near Atlanta G Major-General SLOCUM, , a., July 24, 1864. Commanding TfieKsburg, ge.: GENERAL: I have received yours of July 2.* I fear you were more affected by the words of my telegram than I designed. By tlje lan- See Vol. XXXIX Page 246 246 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHM?. L. guage used I aimed to express emphatically how important General Grant and I deemed the intersection of the Mississippi Central aiid the Vicksburg and Selma roads. We had worked for it so hard that I felt sensitive when I heard the enemy were gradually closing the gap. Be assured of my sincere respect, and if you will be most active, whether successful or not, you may count on my personal and official support. This may not be a motive, but for the time being I represent the Great Valley, and I do think I appreciate the relative value of its parts. Though far away here in Georgia thundering away at Atlanta my thoughts revert to Mississippi and that great valley, which appears to me the spinal column of America, that you will pardon me if at times I am sensitive as to the safety of its vital parts. There is a seeming conflict of authority between General Canby~s command and mine. Were I near I feel we would perfectly accord, but being so far away I will concede to him superior knowledge of the pressing necessities at local points. Therefore when he orders troops, comply with his orders, and report the troops not as transferred but as detached, and keep him advised of the tenor and pnrpose of any gen- eral instructions or orders from the commander of the Department of the Tennessee or from me. Our command is on the east bank and General Canby~s on the west bank, but as we arc off in Georgia and General Canbyis near at hand, the War l)epartment has wisely ordered that for the protection of the great interests, as it were, afloat on that river, General Canbys orders to local garrisons are good. It; as I hope will not be the case, an absolute conflict should arise, I think our comumands to you would be superior, but if good sense and feeling prevail, 1 do not apprehend any real conflict, for the protection of the river and its commerce, which is common to our commands, must always take pre- cedence over any muere inland expedition. You will have heard with pain and sorrow that General McPherson was killed day before yesterday, at the beginning of a battle brought on by Hood, who attacked our left as we were closing our lines on At- lanta. General McPherson had the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps in line, conforming to the enemys works, and was moving Dodges troops obliquely by the flank to the left to form, as it were, a shoulder. General McPherson was crossing one of those valleys by a road or wood path by, as it were, a diagonal, to reach the left flank of General Blair, doubt- less to prepare a place for General l)odge, and he must have encoun- tered the advanced line of the enemys skirmishers, who preceded the columumi which had reached the rear of the line of General Blair. He was shot through the breast, high up from the right side. He fell dead from his horse but a few yards from the road or path. We soon got his body and sent it to the rear and to the North. lIe was a noble, gallant gentleman, and the best hope for a great soldier that I had in my minds eye. You will find many a moist eye in Vicksburg when the news of his death reaches Vicksburg. General Logan is in command of the army in the field, but the President must name his successor. In the mean time execute his general orders, and in all matters of detail your own good sense must direct. Butterfield is home sick. Ward, Geary, and Williams command Hookers divisions. All have done good fighting. Your friend and servant, W. T. SHERMAN, ]1Lajor- 6~eneral, Commanding Page 247 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 247 SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. LEFT WING, 16TH A. C., No. 45. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864. I. General Woods division, of the Fifteenth Corps, has been ordered to move into iDecatur at 5 oclock this morning, and to directly return, destroying the line of the railroad for the purpose of keeping the enelnys cavalry on our left flank, and at the same time securing a diversion while an attack is being made on the flank of General Thomas and protecting the return of General Garrard from his cavalry expedition. The skirmishers of this command will feel well out at day- light this morning. The skirmish line will be careful to keep its right flank connected with General Blairs pickets, and will be cautioned against any attempt of the enemy to break through to cut them off from the main line. In case the enemy should attack, General Woods is instructed to fall upon his hank and punish him. Brig. Gen. J. W. Fuller, commanding Fourth Division, will move two regiments from his right to the left of General Sweenys line, to occupy the position of Col. onel Williamsons brigade during its absence from the line. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 18648.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Petersburg, Va.: Your dispatch of the 21st did not come till to-day. Johnston is relieved and Hood commands. Hood has made two attempts to strike hard since we crossed the Chattahoochee, and both times got more than he bargained for. No doubt lie expects to cut to my rear, but I have already cut to his rear, having broken his Augusta road out for fifty miles, and his Southern road at Opelika. None remains to him but the Macon road, and I think I will have that soon. I would rather that Hood should fight it out at Atlanta than to retreat farther toward Macon. If you can keep away re-enforcements all well. My army is all in hand, and rear well guarded. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA, July 25, 1864. (Received 1 a. m. 26th.) Col. JAMES A. HARDIE, Inspector- General: I have your dispatch of yesterday, announcing the appointment of General Osterhaus as major-general. I do not object to his appoint- ment, but I wish to put on record this my emphatic opinion, that it is an act of~ injustice to officers who stand by their posts in the day of danger to neglect them and advance such as Hovey and Osterhaus, who left us in the midst of bullets to go to the rear in search of personal advancement. If the rear be the post of honor, then we had better all change front on Washington. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 248 248 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 18648 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. TIALLECK, Washington, D. C.: GEINERAL: I find it difficult to make prompt report of results coupled with some data or information without occasionally making some mis- takes. General McPhersons sudden death, and General Logan suc- ceeding to the command, as it were, in the midst of battle, made some confusion on our extreme left, but it soon recovered and made sad havoc with the enemy, who had practiced one of his favorite games of attacking our left when in motion and before it had time to cover its weak end. After riding over the ground and hearing the varying statements of the actors on that flank, I directed General Logan to make me an official report of the actual results, and 1 herewith inclose it.* Though the number of dead rebels seems excessive,Jam disposed to give full credit to the report that our loss, though only 3,521 killed, wounded, and missing, the enemys dead alone on the field nearly equal that number, viz, 3,240. Happening at that point of the line when a flag of truce was sent in to ask permission for each party to bury its dead, I gave General Logan authority to permit a temporary truce on that flank alone, while our labors and fighting proceeded at all others. I also send you a copy of General Garrards report of the breaking of railroad toward Augu sta.t Now I am grouping my coni- mand to attack the Macon road, and with that view will intrench a strong line of circumvallation and flanks ,so as to have as large an infantry column to co-operate as possible with all the cavalry to s~ving round to the south and east to control that road at or below East Point. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Iield, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. General THOMAS: General Garrard is back all safe, having lost but 2 men. He destroyed the bridges across the branches of the Ocmulgee, and the depots at Couyers, Covington, and Social Circle, and brought in 200 prisoners and a fine lot of fresh horses and negroes. He is now at De- catur resting, but we must all get in motion by the day after to-morrow. I thought Captain Dayton had sent you word about General Garrards return. General Logan now foots up the killed of the enemy at 3,200, and 2,100 prisoners. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing, 3,500 and 10 guns. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Comm an ing. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. General THOMAS: Send word to General McCook and notify him to have his and Col- onel Harrisons command all ready for the big raid by daylight of day after to-morrow, and that if convenient after giving his orders, I would like to see him in person to-morrow. W. T. SHERMAN, Mc~jor- General, Commanding. See Part III, p. 21. See Part II, p. 809 Page 249 ChAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 249 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OP THE MISSiSSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. General THOMAS: I understood that General McCooks cavalry was across Proctors Creek and held the east bank at Turners Ferry, and ordered a pontoon bridge to be made to connect his and Colonel Harrisons cavalry, but on reaching Proctors Creek it was found that our pickets were across the creek, but not out as far as the Turners Ferry road. Order General McCook out early to-morrow to cover that ferry, that the bridge may be put down and Colonel Harrison and he put in communication. W. T. SHERMAN, ilfajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding, ~c.: GENERAL: Tn the attack on the 22d our total loss 3,521 and 10 guns. Captures were 1,000 sent North, 1,017 wounded in our hands, 18 stand of colors, 5,000 stand of arms. Known dead of the enemy, 2,142, in front of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Corps and one division of the Seventeenth Corps, and it is estimated the other division Seventeenth Corps, which repulsed six assaults of the enemy before it fell back, must have killed enough more to make his, the enemys, loss in killed fully 3,000. I am, general, yours, truly, L. M. 1)AYTON, Aide-de- Camp. The known dead were those buried by us and sent over to the enemy during the truce of the following day on that front, and was on a space of ground from our main line there and the line midway between the two lines of pickets or skirmishers. Yours, truly, L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 25, 1864. Brigadier-General I3AIRIi: Report from Davis front states heavy columns of troops moving to his right. Make your line as compact as your numbers will allow, hold- ing your reserves ready to support Walker. Respectfully, J. M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS Near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864midnight. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, (Received 1.30 a. m. 26th.) Commanding First Division: GENERAL: The mnajor-general commanding directs me to inform you that it has beeli reported to him from our picket-line that the enem Page 250 250 TIlE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAr. L have been moving all night to their left (our right), in such manner as induces him to believe that they are moving away. He wishes your pickets to be vigilant, and in ease the enemy leave your front to follow as closely and as far as you can with comparative safety. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 25, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. L. ELLIOTT, Chief of Cavalry, Departn~tent of the Cumberland: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that ~ cavalry be ordered out as far as the Turners Ferry road, and to cover that ferry, that a pontoon bridge may be laid at that place, and MeCook and Harrison put in communication. Let this be done early to-morrow morning. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSPIPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. General MCCooK, Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: I understood General Thomas to say yesterday that you had possession of Turners Ferry road out for three miles from the river, and had ordered a pontoon bridge down that you would be in connec- tion with Colonel Harrisons command on the other side of the river. 1 wish that bridge laid down~ and you to establish communication with Colonel Harrison to-morrow. Captain Poe will see that the bridge is put down, and one of my inspectors will inspect Colonel Harrisons conimand to-morrow. Cover the bridge with all your cavalry. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, July 25, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Army: GENERAL: Last night the rest of my command arrived, bringing about 30 prisoners and some hundred negroes. The depot at Social Circle and a large amount of supplies, including a lot of new Government wagons were burned, it will take three or four days to put my com- mand in order. My wagons are not up, and I do imot know where they are. I have also over 1,000 horses unshod. I can do all duty required of me on this flank, but, if possible, would like it to be so arranged as not to send me off again for some days. General Stoneman spoke to me last night, before I had time to know fully my condition, about some expedition. I could only reply that I would try to carry out all orders, but could not at that time pass my judgment in regard to its probable success or the strength I could bring to bear. If the route is take Page 251 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. L.] 251 proposed by him I think it will amount to a fight with rebel cavalry and very doubtful if much damage can be done. A raid to be a suc- cess must be made by light bodies and done quickly and the whole should be a surprise. In connection with a general advance, of course, the cay- aliy expect to do its share of fighting and drive off that of the enemy. I3ut I regard the two very different affairs. I inclose you the letter of in- structions asked for, and in conclusion would mention to your flivorable notice my three brigade commanders, Colonel Miller, Colonel Minty, aiid Colonel Long. They are all good officers and manage their bri- gades well. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Marietta, July 25, 18G4. General GARRARD, Commanding Division of Cavalry: GENERAL: Yours of to-day is received. I beg you will convey to Colonels Minty, Long, and Miller the assurances that I fully appreciate the services recently rendered. I would like to give all the time you ask for re~t, reshocing, & c., but am advised by General Grant that I must be prepared for a re-enforcement to the rebel army from Vir- ginia, and want to prevent it. I am afraid 1 will have to call on you and also on General Rousseaus cavalry to start again the day after to- morrow, but I propose that yours and Rousseaus should be in the na- tine of support to General Stoneman and General McCook, who will be charged to make the circuit and break the Macon road well to the rear, say below MeDonough. I wanted General Stoneman to consult and advise with you and bring me your opinion, but my plan is that all my army shall swing round by the right against East Point, whilst the cavalry right and left move by a circuit, and by detachments reach the railroad so as to cut off the last link of the enemys communications. That done, I think we can pause for rest and all sorts of repairs. Every minute we delay will add to the magnitude of the undertaking, which I take it for granted the en- emy must apprehend, and will be calling in his scattered cavalry to thwart and prevent it. I am, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, ]Iifajor- General, Commanding. GENERAL SHERMANS IIEAIXUARTERS, General K. GARRARD, July 25, 18G4. Commanding Cavalry Division: GENERAL: General Sherman says that day after to-morrow will be soon enough, provided the enemy does not leave Atlanta before that time. In the mean time he wishes us to get our ~onimands well in hand and to be ready to act vigorously in case we are called upon suddenly to push a retreating army. The general says that you can call in the regi- ment you now have at the Factory bridge, and that you can replace it with such portion of your command (under an officer), as you cannot make available in the contemplated operations. This party need not, nor wil Page 252 252 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. it be expected to keep up communications with the left of the army~ but will be considered and will act as a sort of flank guard to Marietta, and to hold the bridge for ulterior purposes, in case it may be wanted. An infantry force will also be sent there from Marietta, if necessary. The success of your recent expedition warrants the general in expect- ing important results from the efforts of our forces combined. I am, very respectfully, & c., GEORGE STONEMAX, Major- (Jeneral. [First indorsement.] Respectfully referred to General Sherman, through General Logan, to know under whose orders I am serving. I have been all day occupied in carrying out General Logans orders and now this letter orders an entirely different disposition of my troops. Of course I do not recognize General Stoneman, but wish this matter settled in some way. I should not move for two or three days. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, K. GARRARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Second indorsernent.] HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1861. General Garrard reported to me on his return yesterday, took up a position north aiid east of Decatur, c~nnectThg with Colonel Spragues brigade on my left. I learned this morning the enemys pickets occu- pied the main Decatur road between that place and my front, and I ac- cordingly requested him to throw forward his line, connect with General Dodge so that I could withdraw Spragues brigade, and place him in reserve, the only reserve on my entire lilie. I also requested Ge~neral Garrard to leave that portion of a regiment of his command, part of the guard at Roswell, at that place until the empty teams of his train re- turned to Marietta for supplies could arrive at Roswell and convey the sick to the hospitals at Marietta. All the ambulances of this army are employed in moving our hospitals to the rear, hence the miecessity of availing myself of General Garrards empty traiD s. The position of Gen- eral Garrard as indicated by me will give him a good camp and protect my left flank. JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: I have your application for the services of General Corse, which I grant, because I want you to have good division commanders. But I beg you to see that no injustice is done to General Sweeny. I have noticed for some time a growing dissatisfaction on the part of General Dodge with General Sweeny. It may be personal. See that General Dodge prefers specific charges and specifications, and you, as the army commander, must be the judge of the sufficiency of the charges. No on~ but the commander of an army can arrest and sen Page 253 CHAP. Lj CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 253 away a general; it is a high power, but I construe the power to i~eside with the commanders of lily three armies, because each has a conunand other than the troops here on the spot. You, as commander of the Army of the Tennessee, should judge as to the cause of arrest and see that liO injustice is done a general officer. You can se& how cruel it would be to a brave and sensitive gentleman and officer to be arrested, deprived of his command, and sent to the rear at this time. I do not believe General iDodge would willingly do an act of injustice, but still you are the one to judge. I fear that General Sweeny will feel that even I am influenced against him to befriend General Corse, but it is not so. I give up General (Jorse because the good of the service de- mands that at this crisis you should have good division commanders. I am, with respect, your obedient servant, W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jli~or- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD BRIc~ADE, FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, La Fayette, July 25, 186i!).3O p. m. Major-General STEEDMAN, Commanding Di8triet of the Etowah, Chattanooga, Teun.: GENERAL: My scouts have just come in, reporting a force of 2,000 rebels at Wiuns Gap, within twenty miles of this place. I believe Gen- eral Wheeler to be in command. With two sections of artillery I can hold the place; without it I will be compelled to fall back in case of an attack, and will require forty additional wagons to haul off ordnance stores and other property. My courier line was attacked last night by a party of rebel scouts. My scouts were also attacked yesterday evening in Broomtown Valley, by a party of Texas Rangers, which goes I~ show there is a new force in the neighborhood. The country is alive with rebels in scattering squads. Please send me artillery or wag- ons, or instructions how to act in case of an attack. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. K. FAULKNER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. P. S.The command is two-thirds dismounted, having no transpor- tation for their saddles. My wagon train at present is loaded with stores at Rossville, Ga., on its way here. J. K. FAULKNER. [JULY 25, 1864.For Giles A. Smiths congratulatory circular, em- bodying complimentary letter from headquarters Seventeenth Army Corps, see Part III, p. 586.] HEADQUARTERS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 25, 1864. To THE OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS OF THE SECOND DIVISION, S1XTEENTH ARMY CORPS: Your general has been deprived of his command and ordered to Nash- Ville in arrest. Before leaving he is constrained to express to you hi Page 254 254 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. admiration at the heroic manner in which yon r~pulSC(l the terrific as- sanit of the enemy upon yonr lines on the 22(1 instant. Feeling every confidence in you, he had looked for the displaying by you of the ordi- nary, fortitude pf soldiers in the hour of conflict, but you did more than this; with emp~ty cartridge-boxes, and lines unbroken, you stood, trust- ing to your bayonets, like a wall between your country and ruin. At the order to charge, you rushed upon the advancing columns of the enemy, and snatched victory, colors, and hundreds of prisoners from them. As if not content with the glories already won, the Second Bri- gade nioved with alacrity to a distant part of the field, and charged like an avalanche upon a victorious column of the enemy, assisting in re-establishing our line in its former position, and again l)risouers and recaptured cannon were the rewards of their efforts. Your general con- fesses to you freely that the evening of the 22d instant was the proudest of his life, made so by your daring, your fortitude, your heroism, and it was his desire to lead your victorious banner into the doomed city in our front; but this is not to be. It is only left with him to request of you to extend to your future comInall(lCrs the confidence and cheerful obedience that you have always shown to him. T. W. SWEENY, Brigadier- General. IIDQRS. THIRD DIvISIoN, FIFTEENTH ARMY Coups, Cartersville, Ga., July 25, 1864. Col. THOMAS T. HEATH, Commanding Fifth Ohio Cavalry: COLONEL: You will take 200 men of your command, well mounted and supplied with ammunition and rations, if possible for four or five days, and proceed to Allatoona, getting such illformation of the coin- inander of the post at that place as he may have of the road and people west of the Pumpkin Vine Creek. From thence he will l)roceed to Dallas, thence to Burnt Hickory (or Huntsville), thence to Van Wert, thence to Stilesborough and Euharlee, scouting them thoronghly aIld obtaining such information from the natives and their status as lie can get through the country sonth of the river, between Euharlee and a point about one- half way between Home and Kingston, returning by the way of King- ston, with all the guerrillas and scouts on the south side of the river between the points named, dead or alive. A party of fifty or sixty men (infantry) will be sent south of the river from Kingston. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 18648 p. m. (Received 10.50 p. in.) Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT, Washington, D. C.: Nothing except skirmishing and artillery practice to-day. To-morrow hope to have news for you, as movement to destroy railroad south of Atlanta starts at daylightvery strong. J. C. VAN DUZER Page 255 Cnu~. L.] 255 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. 1kV. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 42. July 25, 1864. I. The several armies and bodies of cavalry will watch the enemy closely to their respective fronts, and in case the enemy retreats toward the sontheast General Schofield will follow directly through Atlanta, General Thomas by roads on his right, and General Logan on his left. Generals Stonemans and Garrards cavalry will move by a circle to the left toward McDonongh, break the railroad, and strike the enemy in front or flank, and General McCooks and Colonel Harrisons cavalry will move rapidly on Fayetteville and the railroad beyond, breaking it if possible, in advance of the enemy, and striking the enemy in flank. II. Should the enemy remain as now, on the defensive, inside of the fortifications of Atlanta, the Macon road must be attacked by cavalry beyond Fayetteville and MeDonough, and the infantry must cover the line from the Howard house General Schofields present center, to General Davis position on the right, and the line extended east and south so as to reach or threaten the railroad toward East Point. To this end Generals Stoneinan and Garrard will call in all detachments and send to-morrow to Roswell or in rear of the infantry all crippled stock and incumbrances, prepared to move at daylight the next morning by a circuit to the left, so as to reach the railroad below McDonongh. General Stoneman will command this cavalry force, but will spare Gen- eral Garrards fatigued horses as much as possible, using that command as a reserve, and his own as the force with which to reach and break the railroad. In like manner General McCook will command the joint cavalry command, his own, and of Colonel Harrisons, but will use Col- onel Harrisons fatigued command as a reserve, and his own to reach the road and break it. The railroad when reached must be substan- tially destroyed for a space of from two to five miles, telegraph wires pulled down as far as possible and hid in water or carried away. III. Major-General Schofield will prepare to draw back his left division to the old rebel line, extending back from the Howard house toward the road by which General Stanley advanced, and be prepai~ed on the with- drawal of the Army of the Tennessee to hold that line as the left flank of the grand army. IIY. Major-General Logan will to-morrow send all his trains, and sick, and impediments to the rear of General Thomas to any point near the mouth of Peach Tree Creek, and during the early morning bymoonlight of time next day, viz, Wednesday, July 27, withdraw his army, corps by corps, and move it to the right, forming on General Palmer, and advancing the right as much as possible. V. Major-General Thomas having strongly fortified his front will hold it by an adequate force, and hold the reserves at points most convenient to move to the right, from which point he will strike and destroy tIme rail- road, or so occupy the attention of the enemy that the cavalry may do its work completely and effectually. VI. The cavalry will, unless otherwise ordered, move out at daylight of Wednesday, 27th instant, and aim to reach and break the railroad dur- ing the day or night of the 28th, and having accomplished this work will return to their proper flanks of the army, unless the enemy should be discovered in retreat when each force described will hang on the flanks of the retreating enemy and obstruct his retreat by all the energy in their power Page 256 256 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. YII. All commanders will arrange that their trains be moved behind the Chattahoochee, or behind the center of the army during the time the cavalry is absent in the execution of this duty. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. Mm. Div. OF THE MississiPPi, No. 21. Nashville, Teun., July 25, 18G4. I. General Orders, No. 20, current series, from these headquarters, is extended to include the prohibition of the exportation from this State of any agricultural produce of the kinds required for the army. II. The use of grain for distillation within this State is prohibited. By order of Maj. Gem W. T. Sherman: 11. M. SAWYER, Assistant Adjutant- General. [JuLY 25, 1864.For congratulatory circular from headquarters De- partment of the Cumberland, see Part 1, p. 174.1 Weekly report of effective force of the Deportment of the (Jumberland, Miaj. Gem. George II. Thomas, U. S. irrny, commanding, July 25, 1864. Headquarters. Infantry. Command. oK~ H 0 ~ H Reserve Brigade, Col. H. Le Favour 31 646 677 Post Chattanooga, Cal. T. 11. Stanley. - 71 1, 471 1, 542 14th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. T. J - 2I1 540 563 Morgan. 16th U. 5. Colored Troops, Coiwilliam 26 579 607 B. Gaw. __________ _____ I 151 3,236 Total Fourth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard. First Division, Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley. Second Division, Brig. Gen. John Newton. Third Division, Brig. Gen. T. J. wood. Total Fourteenth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. Gen. J. M. Palmer. - First Division, Brig. Gen. IR. W. Johnson. Second Division, Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis. ThirdDivision, Brig. GenA. Baird. Artillery corps Detached infantry, railroad train- guards, & c. Cavalry. a a a 5 -~ ~ H 3,189 20 165 185 44 182 226 206 5,236 5,132 32 133 165 259 3, 204 3, 463 42 304 146 330 4,787 1,117 118 23 29 15 15 784 445 117 87 226 922 468 166 122 261 885 11, 227 262 5, 144 257 5, 233 332 5,887 73 1, 155 14, 112 5,406 5,490 6,219 1,228 Total 122 895 Ii, 017 924 17,419 18,34 Page 257 CHAP. IL.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNJON. Weekly report of ~flective force of Command. Twentieth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker. First Division, Brig. Gen. A. S. Williams. Second Division, Brig. Gen. J. W. Geary. Third Division, Brig. (len. W. T. Ward. Total Cavalry Corps: Headqu ters, Brig. Gen. W. L. Elliott. First Division, Brig. Gen. E. M. MeCook. Second Division, Brig. Gen. K. Gar. rard. Third Division, Col. W. W. Lowe.. Fourth Division (detached), Brig. (len. A. C. Gillem. Tolal En~ineei~ Troops: Michigan Engineers and Me- chanics, Col. William P. Innes. Pioneer Brigade, Capt. P. OConnell EngineerBrigade, Col. J. B. Culver. Total District of Tennessee: Headquarters, Maj. (len. K. H. Milroy. Fourth Division, Twentieth Army Corps, Maj. (len. K. H. Milroy. Post Nashville, Brig. Gen. J. F. Miller. Fort Donelson, Lieut. Col. E. C. Brott. Clarksville, Col. A. A. Smith Gallatin, Col. J. K. Miller Nashville and Northwestern Rail- road, Brig. (len. A. C. Gillem. Nashville and Chattanooga Rail- road, Brig. (len. H. 1. Van Cleve. Convalescents, Brig. Gen. H. P. Van Cleve. N hville and. Chattanooga Rail- road, Col. H. K. McConnell. Bridgeport, Col. W. Krzyzanowski. Northern Alabama, Brig. Gen. R. S. Granger. Tennessee and Alabama Railroad, Brig. Gen. J. C. Starkweather. Huntsville, Ala., Col. G. M. IL. Johnson. 11th and 12th Indiana and 2d Mich- igan Volunteer Cavalry. Total Unassigned Artillery~ Res%rveArtillery\nshville, Tean - 11th Indiana Battery (in the field) - Total Grand total the Departrnen~t of the Cumberland, 4~c-.Continued. Headquarters. a H 17 32 14 4-3 136 141 90 343 153 173 104 386 0 2 264 157 219 Infantry. ~ H 61 4, 215 2, 861 4, 233 63 4,479 3, 018 4,452 Cavalry. 0 58 3 0 H 61 106 710 816 642 11,370 12,012 3 58 61 10 32 42 . 98 1,357 1,455 189 4,250 4,439 114 1, 992 2, 106 11 51 62 87 1,841 1,928 21 83 104 488 9,440 9,928 53 1,199 1,252 18 396 414 70 1,295 1,365 141 2,890 3,031 I 12 45 57 6 2 8 152 3,951 4,103 3 2 7 86 1,904 1,990 19 307 326 2 2 4 4 3 7 4 3 7 76 1,647 1,723 7 161 168 8 9 ~17 17 502 519 12 1,017 1,029 62 1,421 1,483 7 37 44 62 1,334 1,396 14 32 46 9 18 27 11 1,217 1,228 94 2,653 2,747 6 6 7 160 167 26 640 666 77 1,635 1,712 77 133 230 481 13. 153 13, 638 223 5, 396 5. 619 7 7 14 ~- 7 14 471 12, 632 103 1, 230 61, 295 64, 525 714 14,894 15,608 17 R IRVOL XXXVIII, PT V 25 Page 258 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP L. Weekty report oJ effective force of the Department of the Cumberland, 4c.Continuecl. Artillery. 7 0 ~ 575 597 Command. Reserve Brigade, Col. H. Le Favour Post Chattauooga, Col. T. R. Stanley -. 22 34th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. T. J Morgan. 1.6th U. S. Colored Troops, Col. William B. Gaw. Total Fourth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard. FirstDivision, Maj. Gen. P. 5. Stan- ley. Second Divisiou, Brig. Gen. John Newton. Third Division, Brig. Gen. T. J. Wood. Total Fourteenth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. Geu. J. M. Palmer. First Division, Bria. (len. 11. W. Johnson. Second Division, Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis. ThirdDivision, Brig. Gen. A. Baird Artillery corps Detached infantry, railroad t.raiu- guards, & c. Total Twentieth Army Corps: Headquarters, Maj. (len. Joseph Hooker. First Division, Brie. Gen. A. S. Williams. Second Division, Brig. Gen. J. W. Geary. Third Division, Brig. Gen. W. T. Ward. Total Cavalry Corps: Headquarters, Brig. (len. W. L Elliott. First Division, Brig. (len. E. M. Mc Cook. SecondDivision, Brig. (len. K. Gar- rard. Third Division, Col. W. W. Lowe Fourth Division (detached), Brig. 4 127 (len. A. C. Gillem. I Total Engineer Troops: MichiganEngineers andMechanics, Col. William P. Innes. PioneerBrigade, Capt.P. OConnell Engineer Brigade, Col. J. B. Culver Total Disrtict of Tennessee: Headquarters, Maj. Gen. H. H. Mu. roy. Fourth Division, Twentieth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. H. H. Milroy. Post Nashville, Brig. (len. ,j. F. Miller. Total. z ~ 31 646 9~l 2, 046 23 540 28 579 a 677 2. 339 561 6e7 30 3 79 22 575 597 175 3,811 1.986 30 79 20 165 185 6 259 265 346 5,677 6,023 174 10 5 247 252 296 3, 584 5, 880 225 10 4 264 260 376 5, 355 5, 731 207 9 15 770 785 1,038 14,781 15,819 606 29 23 445 468 291 5.281 5.572 292 5.320 5,612 367 6,113 6,480 17 726 743 17 726 743 468 30 73 1,155 1,228 17 726 743 1,063 19,040 20,303 468 30 22 255 277 58 6 276 282 :182 4, 6:12 4,934 177 12 7 269 276 178 3, 223 :1, :198 191 12 8 245 253 270 4,821 5,091 205 12 21 790 811 772 12, 928 13, 700 631 131 10 98 189 114 102 32 1 357 4,250 1, 992 2, 019 42 1,455 4, 439 2, 106 2, irt 45 1, 394 4,574 1, 419 1, 520 6 6 4 6 4 127 131 51:1 9, 650 10, 163 8, 952 22 53 1,199 1,252 18 396 414 70 1,29 1365 141 2,890 3,031 5 18 220 493 225 511 12 161 128 45 4, 173 2, 706 57 4, 336 2, 834 195 97 12 31 25 Page 259 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 259 Weekly report of effective force of .the Department of the Cumberland, ~c.Continued. Artillery. Total a a Command. ,~ I a a a a H C District of TennesseeContinued. I j IFort Donelson, Lient. Col. B. C 3 162 163 a 164 169 88 11 Brott. Clarksville, Col. A. A. Smith...: 3 121 I 124 7 124 131 148 9 Gallatin, Col. J. K. Miller 9 122 122 6 Nashville and Northwestern Rail 4 103 107 91 1 914 2 005 78 6 road, Brig. Gen. A. C. Gillem. Nashville anti Chattanooga Rail 8 405 413 33 916 949 I 57 road, Brig. Gen. H. P. Van Cleve Convalescents, Brig. Gen. HIPS? Cleve. 12 101i~ 1029 Nashville and Chattanooga Rail i I iS 79 63 1 499 1 562 42 4 road, Col. H. K. McConnell I Bridgeport, Col. W. Krzyzanowski 8 2i8 286 77 1 649 1 726 j 78 13 Northern Alahama, Brig. Gen. R. i 5 158 163 19 390 209 100 8 5. Granger I I Tennessee and Alahama Railroad, 4 128 12 118 4,016 4 134 1,773 11 Brig. Gen. J. C. Starkweather. Huntsville, Ala., Col. G. Mi. L 39 8001 839 Johnson. 11th and 12th Indiana and 2d Mich 77 I 1 61a 1 712 igan Volnnteer Cavalry. Total- 62 2, 26a 2.127 817 20 967 21 814 2,599 165 Unassi~ned Artillery: Reserve Artillery, Nashville, Tenn. 24 71 31 719 750 625 24 11th Indiana Battery (in the field) - 4 127 131 4 127 131 6 Total 28 839 867 35 846 881 625 30 Grand total 169 6,092 6261 4 a84 84, 91.3 89,497 13, 911 391 No reports from. First Ohio Volunteer Sharpshooters, One hundred and eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and Fifty-eighth Indiana Voluri - teer Infantry, Batteries M and K, First Ohio Volunteer Artillery (unas- signed artillery), and Signal Corps. Respectfully submitted. WM. L. PORTER, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. Major-General SHERMAN, Near Atlanta: WASHINGTON, July 26, 18642.30 p. in. I have just seen yours complaining of the appointment of ilovey and Osterhans. The point you make is unquestionably a good one, and yet please hear a word from us. My recollection is that both General Grant and yourself recommended both H[ovey] and O[sterhaus] for promotion, and these, with other strong recommendations, drew com- mittals from us which we could neither honorably or safely disregard. We blamed H[ovey] for coming away in the manner in which he did, but we knew he had apparent reason to feel disappointed and mortified, and we felt it was not best to crush one who certainly had been a good sol- dier. As to O[sterhaus], we did not know of his leaving at the time we made the appointment, and do not now know the terms on which he left. Not to have appointed him, as the case appeared to us at the time, would have been ahuost, if not quite, a violation of our word. The word was CHAP. L. Page 260 260 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. given on what we thonght was high merit and somewhat on his na- tionality. I beg yon to believe we do not act in a spirit of disregarding merit. We expect to await your programme for further changes and promotions in your army. My profoundest thanks to you and your whole army for the present campaign so far. A. LINCOLN. CITY POINT, VA., July 26, 18642 p. m. (Received 8.10 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, $eeretary of War: Your dispatch of 9 p. in. 24th just received.* The vacancies yet re- maining for brigadier-generals I would like to have given to such men as Sherman may recommend. He has conducted his campaign with great skill and success. I would, therefore, confirm all his recommenda- tions for department and corps commanders. No one can tell so well as one immediately in command the dispositioii that should be made of the material on hand. Osterhaus has proved himself a good soldier, but if he is not in the field I regret his promotion. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WASHINGTON, July 26, 18644 p.. m. Major-General SHERMAN, General Howard is assigned, as requested, to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. H. W. HALLECK, lljliajor- General and Chief of staff. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 26, 18649 p. m. (Received 1 p. m. 27th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLEUK, Washington, ft (ii.: To-morrow we begin the move against Atlanta, having strongly in- trenched our front from the railroad east of Atlanta to a hill on the south of Proctors Creek. I move the whole Army of the Tennessee to the right, extending the line south, threatening East Point, and forcing, as I think, Hood to abandon Atlanta or allow us, at small cost, to occupy the railroad south of the town, that to the east being well de- stroyed. At the same time I send by the right a force of about 3,500 cavalry, under General McCook, and round by the left about 5,000 cavalry, under Stoneman, with orders to reach the railroad about Grif fin. I also have consented that Stoneman (after he has executed this part of his plan), if he finds it feasible, may, with his division proper (about 2,000), go to Macon and attempt the release of our officers, pris- oners there, and then to Anderson[ville] to release the 20,000 of our men, * Announcing the appointment of certain brigadier-generals in the Army of the Potomac, and the appointment of Osterhans as major-general. Also {nforming him (Grant) that three or four other yacancie~ Qf brigadier-general await his recominen- dation to be tilled Page 261 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.iJNION. 2~3I prisoners there. This is probably more than he can accomplish, but it is worthy of a determined effort. While these are in progress I will, with the main army, give employment to all of the rebel army still in Atlanta. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- aeneral. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, (Ia., July 26, 1864. General ~PHOMA5: General McCook represents the enemy~s cavalry to his front intrenched behind good works, extending from about White Hall down to the Chat- tahoochee, and he apprehended difficulty in breaking through. I have consented to his dropping down the west bank of the Chattahoochee to a point about Campbellton, crossing there and striking out for the rail- road. This will turn the position of the cavalry, and force them back to meet General McCook on more open ground. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. General ThOMAS: Major-General Howard is ordered to the command of the Army and Department of the Tennessee. I want him in his new command at once. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQR5. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 26, 1864. - (Received 10 p. in.) Major-General HOWARD: I have this moment received a dispatch from Halleck. You are as- signed to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. I want you to-morrow to assume command and give directions to the army as it goes into position to-morrow. If you will come to my head- quarters 1 will ride with you and explain my wishes. I am, truly, your friend, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. Major-Generals THOMAS and SCHOFIELD: GENTLEMEN: As a part of the movement to-morrow 1 wish, while the cavalry is moving out, say at 6 a. in., and General Logans troops shifting from left to right, that you send from some point of the fron Page 262 262 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. of each division in our Ibm of circumyallation a bold party of about a regiment strOng to 1)ush back the enemys outlying pickets arid ted their position. This will have the effect of holding them ami drawing there as large a body of the enemy as possible, as he will on such a display. Inasmuch as Jeff C Davis division is placed as a strong right flank, and therefore will be almost entirely in reserve when the Army of the Tennessee gets to the right, I wish the demonstratiou to his front be still more decided, viz, a whole brigade should move on the rnlge due south from the hill intrenched beyond Proctors Creek ,and should push back the enemy beyond any little rifle-pits to his main ~ne, which will be found up on the main ridge which extends from Atlanta to East Point. This brigade should move toward the old village of White Hall, about two miles and a half from Altanta. These demonstrations should proceed slowly and deliberately, and last all day, and should be as bold and provoking to the enemy as possible, tempting him to sally out and test our present lines. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. (Received 11.25 p. in.) Major-General HOOKER, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: In execution of inclosed order* from the major-general commanding the Military Division of the Mississippi, the major-general commanding the department directs that you send out from the front of each division of your corps in line one regiment to l)ush back the enemy, as directed in the order~ I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of kStajf. (dame to Howard.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TILE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: In execution of the inclosed ordert the major-general commanding directs that to-morrow morning you send out a regiment from each division of your corps in line, except General ~ to push back the enemy as directed. You will instruct General I)avis to send a brigade to act as directed in the order. I amn, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. I). WIIIPPLE, Chief of Staff. * See next precedilig. See bottom of p. 261 Page 263 CHAP. LI CO1~flESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864-7.30 p. m~ Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that General Stanley is at present moving two of his brigades to a position on the left of Major- General Schofields coiuiuand, and that General Newton moved one of his brigades this afternoon to a i)osition in reserve, in the rear of his present headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 18645.40 p. m. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding First Dirision, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: Yon will immediately move two brigades of your division to the abaiidoned rebel works on the left of Major-General Schofields command. Your left must rest at the point where you crossed said works in marching to your present position. Please consult with Gen- eral Schofield as to picketing. This movement must be made before General Logan leaves his present position. By order of Major-General Howard: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. Colonel CAMERON, Commanding Second Brigade: SIR: I have just seen General Logan. His troops will commence moving about midnight, beginning on the extreme left. The extreme right, which is next you, must be some hours later, but you will have to keep watch of it, and move by your left back into the new works made by the Fifteenth Corps, when they niove out. Colonel Byrd is ordered to have a regiment in the same works to hold that line as skir- mishers and you will support the whole skirmish line until the remain- der of the division is moved into the position assigned. The skirmish line will then take position according to the orders given you this p. in., and your brigade will move inside of our works. Major Wells will be at Cockerills battery, and you will give him immediate notice when the division on your left is in motion. Very respectfully, & c., J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 264 264 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. U HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, July 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL The commanding general directs you to make a demon- stration in your front to-morrow, as directed in inclosed extract of orders* of this date from the major-general commanding Military Division of the Mississippi. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to General Hascall.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta., July 26, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. S. HAScALL, Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith Special Field Orders, No. 42, current series, headquarters Military Division of the Missis- sippi.t The commanding general directs that you instruct your pickets to watch the enemy closely and to move forward and occupy the works on the first indication that he has evacuated. The general also directs that you put your men to work, with as little delay as possible, on the line which will be laid out by Capt. W. J. Twining, aide-dc-camp. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to General Cox.) JULY 26, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding, & e.: In case we succeed in carrying out your wishes will it meet your ap- probation, should I see a good opening, if I should with a portion of the command make dash on Macon and by a vigorous stroke release the prisoners (officers) now at that point, and after~vard go on to Amen- ens and release those (privates) there. I would like to try it, and am willing to run any risks, and I can vouch for my little command. Now is the time to do it before the rebel army falls back and covers that country, and I have every inducement to try it. If we accomplish the desired object it will compensate for the loss as prisoners of us all, and 1 should feel compensated for almost any sacrifice. Very respectfully, & c., GEORGE STONEMAN, Jlliajor- General. *Seep. 261. t5eep. 255 Page 265 CHAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.1IJNION. 265 JIDQRS. MILITARY DIVIsIoN OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE STONEMAN, Commanding Die h4on of Cavalry: GENERAL: II have received your letter of July 26, asking permission after breaking good the railroad below MeDonough to push on [to Macon], release the officers there, and afterward to go to Anderson- [yule] and release the men confined there. I see many difficulties, but, as you say, even a chance of success will warrant the effort, and I con- sent to it. You may, after having fulfilled my present orders, send General Garrard back to the left flank of the army, and proceed with your command proper to accomplish both or either of the objects named. I will keep the army busy, so that you shall have nothing to contend with but the cavalry, and if you can bring back to the army any or all those prisoners of war it will be an achievement that will entitle you and the men of your command to the love and admiration of the whole country. Be careful to break telegraph wire and railroad when and where you go, especially the telegraph, as it will prevent the enemy following your movement. W. T. SHERMAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD BRR~ADE, FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, La Fayette, July 26, 1864. Capt. S. B. MOE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dist. of the Etowah, Chattanooga, Teun.: CAPTAIN: In reply to your communication I would respectfully state that the only re-enforcements the rebel scouts have received in addi- tion to their numbers is the Eleventh Texas Cavalry. I am amply able to hold this place against 3,000 men. From information received this morning I am satisfied that General Wheeler is not in this section. I would much prefer remaining here with the command all together. Will start the 100 men to Kickajack Gap this evening if I receive no furtherorders, andwillhavethewagonshaltuntilIhearf~omyou. I will send my surplus ordnance stores, & c., back to Chattanooga for storage. Please answer immediately. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. K. FAULKNER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS; Cartersville, Ga., July 26, 1864. Col. BENJAMIN D. DEAN, Commanding at Kingston: COLONEL: You will send ouf Thursday next (28th instant) fifty or sixty picked men, with three days rations and forty rounds of ammu- nition, under direction of Lieutenant-Colonel Buswell, to scout the country south and west of the Etowah River, and co-operate with a party of 200 cavalry under command of Colonel Heath, coming u Page 266 [CHAP. 1. 266 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. from Dallas to Euharlee. All suspicious persons will be arrested by Colonel Buswell and brought iu for such disposal as their conduct merits. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: CARL. L. WHITE, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HD QRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., lit the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 43. ) Jnly 26, 1864. I. Upon the application of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, commanding the Army of the Tennessee in the held, Brig. Gen. J. M. Corse, acting inspector-general of this army, is hereby relieved and assigned to duty with the Department and Army of the Tennessee, and will report in person to General Logan, that he may be assigned to duty according to his rank with troops. II. The general commanding in thus relieving General Corse from a purely staff position, to enable him to accept the higher arid more ap- propriate one in connection with troops in actual service, thanks him for his personal and official services rendered during the present cain- paign miear his person. III. Capt. E. C. Denig, assistant adjutant-general of volunteers, is hereby transferred from the Department and Army of the Ohio to the Department and Army of the Cumberland, and will report immediately to Maj. Gen. George II. Thomas in the field. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 44. ) July 26, 1864. I. By direction of the President of the United States, Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to command the Depart- ment amid Army of the Tennessee. He will at once assume command of the Army of the Tennessee in the field. II. Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas, commanding the Department and Army of the Cumberland, will relieve General Howard of the command of the Fourth Army Corps, that he may enter npon his new command, and will assign a general to command the Fourth Corps until the orders of the President are received. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. 1)AYTON, Aide-de- Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUT~IBERLAND, No. 204. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. * * * * * * * IX. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard, having been assigned to the command of the Army and Department of the Tennessee, is hereby relieved fro Page 267 CHAP. LI tORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNIoN. 267 the command of the Fourth Army Corl)s, Army of the Cumberland, aiid will report in person to iMaj. Gen. NV. T. Sherman, commanding Mili- tary I) ivision of the Mississippi. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutan t~ General, HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July ~6, 1864. To the Fourth Army Corps: Having been assigned to another command, the duty, by no means a pleasant one, devolves upon me to take leave of a corps that I have learned to love and trust. The time of our service together has been short, but crowded with remarkable events. The words Dalton, Ilesaca, Adairsville, Kingston, Cassville, Dallas Kenesaw Smyrna Camp-Ground, and Peach Tree Creek, snggest to us fields of conflict, more or less severe, where we have buried many an endeared comrade, where you have won honor for your country and yourselves, and where the enemy has learned anew to fear and respect the power of the Government for which we fight. It is with pain thiatl realize my inability to reward your cheerful devotion to duty, your arduous and prolonged labor, and your uncomplaining sacrifices. I heartily appreciate the constant co-operation of the division commanders, and tIme cheerful nianner in which they have sustained mne, and in which they have been sustaine(l by their own officers. To themn, and, through them to their commands, I tender may warmest thanks and unqualified conmmnenda- tion. No officer could have received mnore ready and untiring assist- amice fromu his staff than I have from mine. To themn also I am more than grateful. Believing from mny heart that our cause is right and just before God, as I take leave of you I commend you to His blessing, and trust 1-le will assist our armies to comnplete the work which He has en- abled them so gloriously to bring to the present stage of success. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 62. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. * * * * * * III. To carry out the requirements of Special Field Orders, No. 42, headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, July 25, 1864, a line of (lefense will be constructed to-day connecting the left of General Hascalls center brigade with the line of works abandoned by the enemy in rear of the Howard house, and the latter line will be remodeled and strengthened so as to adapt it to our use as a line of defense for the left and left rear of the armny. All hospitals and trains will be moved within this mmew line during the day, except the trains en route to Marietta, which will remain at the latter place, or at the crossing of the Chatta- hoochee, until further orders. Trains will cross at Paces or Powers Ferry, The bridge at Ishamas Ford will be destroyed, and the troops guarding it will joimi their division to-night. Detachments guardimig traimis within the line of defense will be relieved aimd will join their proper commands. Simnultaneously with the withdrawal of the right of the Army of the Tennessee, which is expected to take place to-morrow morning, Genera Page 268 268 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Cox will in ove back into the new line of defense, his right resting near the junction of the old rebel line and that to be constructed to-day. General Hascall will, at the same time, draw back his left to the new line prepared for it. Each division will have three brigades in line and one in reserve. The skirmish line will, unless forced back, maintain substantially its present position until the troops are established in the new line, when it will be retired so as to conform to the new position. The present line and that recently constructed by the Army of the Ten- nessee, as far as they are available, will be occupied by the reserve of the skirmish line, and must be held against anything less than an attack in force, and in case of ah attack in force the resistance of the skirmish line in the old works must be sufficient to develop the strength and character of the attack, whether in column or line, and the real point of attack. The skirmish line will be connected with that of the troops of the Fourth Corps, General Stanleys di- vision, which are to occupy the rear line on the left of General Cox. The skirmish line will be strong, placed well out, and must oppose an obstinate resistanec to any advance of the enemy, endeavoring to ascertain and inform the commanding general as soon as possible the strength of the attacking force, and the point of the line at which the attack is really aimed. Should the enemy attack any position of the Army of the Tennessee, or of this army, during the movement, and before it shall have progressed so far as to leave the flank of this army exposed, the troops will maintain their present position, repel the attack, and await further orders. The present movements are expected to be decisive. The enemy is desperate and consequently bold. The utmost vigilance is enjoined upon all officers and men while on duty. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 79. ) B~/ore Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. * * * * * * * IV. In order to carry out the instructions contained in Special Field Orders, No. 42, Military Division of the Mississippi, the following movements of this army will be made: 1. Brigadier-General Woods, commanding First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, will at 4 oclock this p. m. march with his command and take np his position in the new line of intrenchments, his right resting on the railroad. 2. Major-General Dodge, comumnanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, will at 12 oclock to-night draw out his command and move by the nearest route to the main road running in rear of General Scho- fields line, entering this road immediately to the west of the point where the new line of intrenchments crosses the railroad. General Dodge will move to the right of General Thomas command and take np his position on the right of the corps of Gemmeral Palmer. 3. As soon as the troops of Major-General Dodge have filed out, Major-General Blair will draw out his command and march by the most practicable route to the maui road indicated above, following the Six- teel4th Corps on that road, and taking up a position on its right Page 269 269 ChAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 4. When the troops of the Seventeenth Corps have filed past, Brig. Gen. M. L. Smith, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will draw out his command, following the Seventeenth Army Corps, an(I moving last the division of Brigadier-General Woods. The Fifteenth Army Corps will take np a position on the right of the Seventeenth Army Corps, one division being held in reserve. The new line to be occnpied on the right will be thrown forward as far as practicable. 5. That portion of the artillery which can be drawn out dnring the day will be designated by Captain Hickenlooper, chief of artillery, and a position assigned it in the new line. The remaining artillery will be drawn out immediately after dark, the wheels mnffled with grain sacks, and every precaution used to make the movement as silently as possible. 6. All the trains, except one wagon with ammnnition for each regi- ment and battery, will be sent to-day to a point in rear of the center of the army and there parked. 7. Corps commanders will, nnder the direction of Captain Reese, chief engineer, cause good roads to be constructed dnring the day for their commands to move out upon, and staff officers will make them- selves thoroughly acquainted with the route to be taken by each division. 8. All arrangements to accomplish these movements will be made during the day, so that the troops can be drawn out with celerity and without confusion. V. Brig. Gen. J. A. Corse, having reported to these headquarters, in accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 43, Military Division of the Mississippi, will forthwith report to Major-General Dodge, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, for assignment to the command of the Second Division, Sixteenth Army Corps. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: WA. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRs. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 62. 5 Before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. * * * * * * * Ill. The division of General Harrow will move at 12 oclock, follow- imig the Seventeenth Corps. General Lightburn will put his division in motion so as to close upon General 1-Jarrow at the crossing of the rail- road on the road to the Howard house. General Woods will move so as to close up on General Lightburn. Commands will not be given ex- cept in a very low tone of voice. Headquarters wagons of divisions, brigades, and of these headquarters, except one to carry rations, will pass the Howard house and follow the wagons of General Logans head- quarters immediately after aark to-night. IV. Pickets will be relieved when the rear of the division passes the new works. Ammunition wagons and ambulances will precede the division to which they pertain. Picket officers from each division of the Army of the Tennessee will get notice to withdraw their pickets from the white house on the railroad as soon as the rear of the Second J)ivision, Fifteenth Corps, passes through the new line of works. By order of Brig. Gen. A. L. Smith: R. IR. TOWNES, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 270 270 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, )~ HDQRS. LEFT WING, 16TH ARMY CORPS, No. 47. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864. I. Brig. Gen. J. A. Corse, having reported to these headquarters for duty, is, in accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 79, headquarters Department and Army of the Tennessee, hereby assigned to the corn- mand of the Second Divisioll, Sixteenth Army Corps: All books, maps, and papers appertaining to headquarters of the division will be turned over to Brigadier-General Corse, and the division staff will report to him for duty. Col. E. W. Rice, Seventh Iowa Infantry Volunteers, will again assume command of the First Brigade. 11. In making the movement to-night as specified in extract IV, Special Field Orders, No. 79,. headquarters Departmeiit and Army of the Tennessee (a copy of which is inclosed), the Second Division will have the advance, moving promptly at 12 oclock to-night. The Fourth Di- vision will remain in its present position till the Second has withdrawn from its works, when it ~vill closely follow. All wagons, with the excep- tion of one wagon loaded with ammunition to each regiment and bat- tery, will move this p. m. to a position near where the advanced supply train is now stationed, in the rear of the center of the army. * * * * * * V. The following additional instructions in relation to the movement to-night will be observed: At 8 p. m. Col. J. W. Sprague, command- ing Second Brigade, Fourth Division, will move out and go into position on the left of Brigadier-General Woods division, Fifteenth Army Corps, in the new intrenchments north of the railroad, and will join his division as it passes through these intrenchinents during the night. The Second Brigade, Second Division, will draw out with time Seventeenth Army Corps, and join its division to-morrow morning at the creek near General Shermans headquarters, where tIme command will bivouac. The troops must be moved quietly, without sound of bugle or drum, and all teams, except one wagon of ammunition to a regiment and battery, must move off early to-night and go into l)ark with the trains in rear of time center of the army before 11 p. ut, so that the entire road is clear for troops. Time ammunition wagons will move in advance of the divisions. Division picket officers will report to Capt. II. L. Burulmam at these headquarters, at 10 p. in., for instrtlc- lions in relation to withdrawing the picket-lines, which is not to be done until the entire army has moved out. By order of Maj. Gen. G. A. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 184. Before Atlanta, Ga., Jnly 26, 1864. * * * * * * * XXX. In compliance with orders from headquarters Department and Army of the Tennessee, this command will be prepared to move at 12.3() to-morrow morning. As soon as the Sixteenth Army Corps has filed out, Brig. Gen. Giles A. Smith, commanding Fourth Division, will move his command by the left flank on the road running near his left to the railroad by these headquarters, where he will halt. Brigadier- General Leggett, commanding Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, will mnoyc his comni~nd simultaneously with the Fourth Division o Page 271 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 271 road leading from his left rear along the rear of the Fifteenth Army Corps, striking the railroad at the same point as the Fourth Division, where he will await further orders. Upon moving beyond the railroad the Third Division will take the advance. By command of Maj. Gen. Frank P. Blair: ROWLAND COX, Assistant Adjutant- General. [JULY 26, l864.For General Orders, No. 8, headquarters Seven- teenth Army Corps, conferring a medal of honor upon Private George J. Reynolds, Company D, Fifteenth Iowa Infantry, for recovering the body of General iMePherson, & c., see Part III, p. 556.] NEAR ATLANTA, GA., Jnly 27, 1864. His Excellency President LINCOLN, (Received 12.05 a. in. 29th.) lYashinyton: SIR: Your dispatch of yesterday is received. I beg you will not re- gard me as fault finding, for I assert that I have been well sustained in every respect during my entire service. I did not suppose my dis- patches would go outside the offices at the War Department. I did not suppose you were troubled with such things. Hovey and Oster- hans are both worthy men, and had they been promoted on the eve of the Yieksburg campaign, it would have been natural and well accepted; but I do think you will admit that their promotion, coining to us when they had gone to the rear, the one offended because I could not unite in the same division five infantry and five cavalry regiments, and the other for temporary sickness. You, can see how ambitions aspirants for military fame regar(1 these things. They come to me and point them out as evidences that I am wrong in enconraging them to a silent, patient discharge of duty. I assure you that every general of my army has spoken of it and referred to it as evidence that promotion results from importunity aiid not from actual service. I have refrained from recommending any thus far in the campaign, as I think we should reach some stage in the game before stopping to balance accounts or writing history. I assure you that I do think you have conscientiously acted throughout the war with marked skill in the matter of military appoint- ments, and that as few mistakes have been made as could be expected. I will furnish all my army and division commanders with a copy of your dispatch, that they may feel reassured. With great respect, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 27, 18648.30 p. m. iXThj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, (Received 8 ~ m. 28th.) Washington, D. C.: My two cavalry expeditions are off to make a wide cjrcnit and reach the Macon road well to the southeast of Atlanta, and the Army of the Ten- nessee is shifted to the extreme right, reaching well toward the railroad, so that I think to-morrow nmnst deyclop sopimething. The cayalry wil Page 272 272 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. I,. have to fight the enemys cavalry, and we can hold the infantry and ar- tillery to Atlanta and force them to extend and choose between Atlanta and East Point. 1 dont think the enemy can hold both. All are well pleased with General Howards appointment but Generals Logan and Hooker. The former thought he ought to have been allowed the com- mand of the army in the field until the end of the campaign; but I ex- plained to him that a permanent department commander had to be appointed at once, as discharges, furloughs, and much detailed business could alone be done by a department commander. General Hooker is offended because he thinks he is entitled to the command. I must be honest and say he is not qualified or suited to it. lie talks of quitting. If General Thomas recommends~ I shall not object. He is not indis- pensable to our success. He is welcome to my place if the President awards it, but I cannot name him to so important a command as the Army of the Tennessee. All is well. The enemy to-day offered no seri- ous opposition to the changes of to-day, and our skirmishing and artil- lery were just enough to make things interesting. W. T. SHERMAN, illiajor- General, Commanding. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 27, 186411 p. m. (Received 7.30 p. m. 28th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: General Hooker has applied to be relieved of the command of the Twentieth Army Corps, assigning as a reason the appointment of Gen- eral Howard, his junior, to command the Army of the Tennessee. Gen- eral Thomas asks the following appointments: General D. S. Stanley to command the Fourth Corps, vice Howard, transferred; General H. W. Slocuni to command the Twentieth Corps, vice Hooker, relieved at his own request. I approve these nominations, and ask orders by tele- graph that General Slocum may be summoned from Vicksburg, where he now is. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Before Atlanta, July 27, 1864. ADJUTANT-GENERAL U. S. ARMY, Washington: Major-General Hooker desires to be relieved from the command of the Twentieth Army Corps. Am I authorized to order him to report to you at Washington ~ GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., [Jztly 27, 1864]4.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS: The Secretary of War authorizes you to order General Hooker to report to the Adjutant-General of the Army. Acknowledge receipt. E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 273 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIO 273 JULY 27, 1864. General TILOMAS: Scud inc the i~apers about hooker to-night, an(I make specific recoin- ineiidations to liii the vacancies. Make Hooker resign his 1)ost as coin- mander of the Twentieth Corps, that he cannot claim it and occasion delay in filling thJ vacancy. W. T. ~ItFPMAN, Jliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 27, 18b~i. 1daj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding ]Ifilitary Divisio a of the ]lfississ~ppi: GENERAL: Inclosed herewith I have the honor to transmit a copy of a communicatioii this day received from Major-General Hooker, with my order in the case. Major-General Howard having been placed in com- mand of the I)epartrneut and Army of the Tennessee, I would recom- mend that Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley, coininan(hing First Division of the Fourth Army Corps, be placed in command of the corps. Major-C-en- eral Hooker having, at his own request, been relieved from the eominan(l of the Twentieth Arny Corps, I would recommend that Maj. Gen. H. W. Slocuin be placed in command of that corps. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. 11. THOMAS, Major. General, Commanding. [Inclosure No. 1.] HDQRS. 20TH ARMY CORPs ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., Only 27, 1861. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE: SIR: I have just learned that Major-General howard, my junior, has been assigned to the command of the Army of the Tennessee. if this is the case I request that I may be relieved from duty with this army. Justice and selfrespect alike require my removal from an army in which rank and service are ignored. Ii should like to have my personal staff relieved with me. JOSEPH HOOKER, Major- General. [[1lciosure. No. 2.j SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 205. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1861. * . * * ,. * VII. At his own request, Maj. Gen. J. Hooker, comnnmammdiag the Twentieth Army Corps, is relieved from duty with the Army and l)epartment of the Cunmberland. He will repair to Washington, D. 0., and report to the Adjutant-General for orders. Major-General [lookers personal staff is also relieved from duty with this army that they may accompany the general. The quartermasters department ~viil furnish the neeessary transportation. Brig. C-en. A. S. Williams, 18 R RYOL XXXVIII, PT Page 274 [CHAP. L. 274 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. commanding First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, will succeed Major- in he corps until an assignment to that General Hooker command of t command is made by the President of the United States. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. 1). WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. IIJ)QRS. FiRST CAY. Div., DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Opposite Camnpbellton, July 27, 18649 p. m. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Aicle-de- Camp: I arrived opposite Campbellton at 4 p. in. The rebels have the whole river picketed in this vicinity, though not in sufficient force to have prevented my crossing. The pontoon train, however, at the hour I write, is not yet within six miles of me. Captain Kossak has found it impossi- ble to pull it up with his mules. I will take sonic of my cavalry horses and pull it up. This delay will involve the probable necessity of cross- ing below here, as the attention of the enemy has, I think, been attracted to this point for some reason, as there have been none of theni here re- cently until last night, when a brigade came down to picket their dif- ferent ferries. I have endeavored to conceal my force, and think the rebels are not yet seriously alarmed. I expected to have reached Fay- etteville to-night, and but for the disability on the part of the pontoon train would have done so. I now think I will be able to cross by day- break at some point. Nothing has been found on this side of the river except small scouting parties of Texas cavalry. It is twenty-six miles from here to the point from which we moved our camp this morning. 1 win, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. M. MoCOOK, ~rigadier- General, Commanding Division. CAlITERSYILLE, Jaly 27, 1861. Lient. D. F. How, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Colonel Murray telegraphs that Captain Cummings, Third Kentucky Cavalry, routed Jordans guerrillas yesterday, killing Captain McElroy, wounding Jordan and quite a number of his w rty. He is still in pur- suit. A scouting party has just returned from Stilesborough, having met a party of twemity or twenty-five rebels. They captured horses and equipments, but failed to take any of the party. 4- KILPATHICK, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY l)IYISIoN OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. General SCHOFIELB: I am at General l)avis headquarters. The Army of the Tennessee is approaching the right flank, which is on the Turners Ferry road four miles from the Chattahoochee and about the same distance from Atlanta. I propose to extend on a ridge due south, so that by facin Page 275 CHAP. U] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 275 left the right of our line will be a strong threat to East Point. I took it for granted the enemy would shift to this flank, but gradually we can make him extend till he is out of Atlanta. Listen well for sounds of action on the part of the cavalry. It would be well to burn that big brick house unless you picket it. A regiment should also patrol back toward Decatur occasionally. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, (Jommanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 27, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I am just back from the extreme right. General Howard will have two corps in on the right intrenched, the other in reserve. Our cav- alry is now out a day and to-morrow the effect of these two moves will be felt. I wish you to-morrow to let your skirmishers be bold, even to rashness, and show a good many men at open spaces. If you dont oc- cupy that brick house as an outpost burn it. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: My demonstration to-day showed the enemy still in force in front of my center, near the railroad. About 500 cavalry made their appear- ance near the same point this p. m. and moved toward Decatur. I have a regiment of cavalry, Seventh Ohio, Colonel Garrard commanding, which arrived from the North to-day too late to join General Stoneman. I have ordered it to operate on my left as far out as Decatur. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 18649 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have your dispatch of 8.45. The brick house you refer to was burned this evening. I will press the enemy to-morrow as you desire. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. and Army oj the Tennessee: COLONEL: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major-general commanding, that in obedience to instructions from him I advanced the Third Division of this corps, immediately on its arrival, with instructions to proceed and take up a position on General Dodge Page 276 276 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. right, and on the extension of the line occupied by his command. After a sharp skirmish, which made it necessary to advance slowly, it was found inadvisable to advance farther in consequence of the darkness and difficult nature of the ground. In consequence of time road being blocked up by wagons and artillery, the Fourth I)ivision di(I not reach the vicinity of the position assigned it until almost dark. It was, how- ever, moved rapidly forward with the view to connect with the right of the Third Division; before reaching the Third Division, however, it be- caine dark, and it was considered by the officer commandimig the trOOj)5, as well as myself; to be entirely impracticable to advance farther. I therefore formed it in a strong position, the left resting on the rear of the right of the Third Division, and the right thrown back so as to form almost a right angle with the hue occupied by that division, thereby securing my right flank and rear. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, Jn., Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~IIDQR$. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 205. Near Atlanta, Ga., Jaly 27, 1864. * * * * * X. The First Division of Cavalry (McCook~s) will be rehieived by the Third Division of Cavalry (Kilpatricks) in the following manner: Tenth Ohio and detachment of Second Kentucky Cavalry, wmth one sectmomi of Beebes (Tenth Wisconsin) battery, will proceed without delay and report to Colonel Harrison, commanding Second Brigade, Third Division of Cavalry, with the army at the front. On the arrival of this commuand, Brigadier-General NeCook will proceed with his division to tlme District of the Etowah, headquarters Cartersville, and relieve Brigadier-General Kilpatrick, commanding Third Division of Cavalry, carrying out the in- structions heretofore given to the commander of the Third Division. Upon being relieved, Brigadier-General Kilpatrick will proceed with the remainder of his counmand, after it is concemutrated at Cartersvmile, Ga., and join the army at the front. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY COPIPS~ Near Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard having been ordered to the command of the Army of the Tennussee, the nudersigned hereby assumes command of this corps. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 63. ) July 27, 1864. I. Capt. Theodore Cox, assistant ad.jutarit-general of volunteers, hay- ing reported at these headquarters, in compliance with Special Orders, No. 239, current series, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, i Page 277 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 277 hereby assigned to duty as assistai~t adjntant-general of the Third TM- visiOn~ Twenty-third Army Corps, and will report in person, without delay, to Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, commanding. II. To-morrow, commencing at 7 a. ni., a strong demonstration will be made by the Twenty-third Corps upon the enemy in its front for the purpose of diverting attention as much as possible from movements on our right. The skirmish line will be re-enforced and pushed out boldly even at the risk of a sharp engagement. Gene~-al Cox will send a strong~ regiment, with one or more at proper distances to support it, to feel for and make a strong demonstration upon the enemy~s right. Colonel Garrard will move with his regiment of cavalry in conjunction with this infantry force and cover its left, pressing the enemy vigorously, and endeavoring to drive back whatever cavalry he may have upon his flank. The troops engaged in this demonstration should make con- siderable display, but carefully conceal their real strength. The troops must be ready to move at a moments notice if the enemy be found in retreat, or to have withdrawn from his works in our immediate front. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and A8si8tant Adjutant- General. GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. ~. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. In pursuance of orders from the President, the undersigned hereby assumes command of the Department and Army of the Tennessee. I assure the gallant soldiers of this renowned army that I fully realize the delicate nature of my responsibility. Your late beloved commander was my personal friend and while I unite with you in l)rofound sympa- thy and regret for our irreparable loss, it shall be my constant aim to emulate his noble example. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ lID QRS. FIRST DIVISIoN, 14TH CORPS, No. 122. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. * * * * * * * II. In obedience to department orders the Second Regiment Ohio Volunteers is relieved from duty with this division, and will at once comuply with the said order. The loss of the Second Ohio will be Seri- ously felt, as a better or more gallant regiment cannot be found in serv- ice. The good conduct of the officers and men, both in camnp and in battle, has challenged the admiration of the division commander and when they leave for their homues they will carry with them his best wishes for their future happiness and prosperity. While your division commander rejoices at your prospect of soon being with your families, and congratulates themn on your sate return, lie deeply symupathizes with the families and friends of those who will be missing at your last re- veille. The brilliant record of your regimnent will be a source of pride to you in all time to comne, and though yonr hardships have been great these will be forgotten and you will refer to your services in the army as constitntimmg the mimost pleasant and agreeable l)amt of your lives. My thanks are especially due to Col. A. G. McCook, who has corn Page 278 278 THE ATLANTA CAMPAICN. [CHAP. L. manded the regiment with so much skill and ability~ As a regimental and brigade commander I have found him prompt, brave, skillful, and efficient. * * * * * * * By command of Brigadier-General Johnson: G. W. SMiTH, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, No. 2. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. I. The undersigned hereby reassumes command of the Fifteenth Army Corps. II. Brig. Gem M. L. Smith will reassume command of the Second Division, relieving Brigadier-General Lightburn. JOHN A. LOGAN, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, )~ liD QRS. FIFTEENTh ARMY CORPS, No. 63. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864. Brig. Gen. C. li. Woods, commanding First Division, will, as soon as the moon rises to-night, move into position on the right of the Seven- teenth Army Corps, and form in two lines. Brig. Gen. William Harrow, commanding Fourth Division, will form with a brigade front on the right of Brigadier-General Woods, refusing his entire line about right angles with General Woods. As soon as he shall have gone into position the rest of his troops will be formed in line in reserve. Brig. Gen. M. L. Smith, commanding Second Division, will, as soon as General Harrow shall haVe gone into position, form one brigade on his right, and refuse the line thus formed, and place one brigade in re- serve to the right and rear of his front line. It is important that these muovememits be made before daylight, and division commanders should communicate with each other at once, through staff officers, the better to facilitate time movement. All wagons that are necessary to be had by the commnand will l)e brought forward and parked at convenient distances in the rear, the rest will be left in charge of Captain Emery, acting chief quartermaster, until needed. Ammunition sufficient to make 100 rounds per man will be brought for- ward to-night and placed near enough to the several commands to be accessible, should it be needed. Each division commander should kmiow just where to get it. By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: li. li. TOWNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 28, 18648.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Comdg. Army of the Mississippi, before Atlanta, Ga.: The Secretary of War directs that yon forward to the Department, as soon as practicable, a list of colonels whom you desire promoted to th Page 279 CHAP. Li CO1U-ti~SPONbENCt, ETC,IJNlON. 79 rank of brigadier-general of volunteers. There will probably be eight appointments made for your army. Please indicate your preference for those you desire to receive the first appointments. JAMES A. HARIME, Colonel c(nd Inspector- Ge eral. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 28, 18649 p. m. (Received 29th.) Major-General HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: The enemy again assaulted to-day; this time on our extreme right, to which flank I had shifted the Army of the Tennessee, to gain ground toward the railroad. The blow fell upon the Fifteenth Corps, which handsomely repulsed it, captnring 4 regimental flags. The attack was kept up for five hours. Our men were partially covered, while the enemy were exposed. Our loss is comparatively small, while that of the enemy is represented as heavy. I will give approximate figures to-morrow. The cavalry has now been out two days, and to-morrow should show the effect. I feel confident they will reach the Macon road. Our right is about a mile distant from the railroad, but the ground is very difficult. I may be forced to extend still farther to command it. We have had heavy cannonading all day, the enemy using ordnance as heavy as 6-inch rifled guns. Bragg has been to Atlanta on a second visit. W. T. SHERMAN. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 28, 1864. Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS: Order Davis division to leave his camp and move to Turners Ferry, and then, by a road leading toward East Point, to feel forward for How- ards right, back into some known point of Turners Ferry. I will be over on that flank all day and await to reach out as far as possible.* W. T. SHERMAN. Brig. Gen. J. C. DAvIS, Commanding, & e.: Herewith find copy of telegram from the geucral commanding the Military Division of the Mississippi, forwarded for your information and guidance. March at once in conformity to its directions. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General THOMAS: Before coming in to-night I ordered back the division of General Williams corps, which I called on to be near at hand; also the brigade recorded in Shermans letter-book, this dispatch reads: Order Davis division to leave his camps and move to Turners Ferry, and then, hy road leading to East Point, to feel forward for Howards right. I want to connect Howards right, back with some known point of Turners Perry. I will be over on that flank all day, and want to reach ont as far as possible. See, also, Morgans quotation, Part I, p. 6~0 Page 280 280 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. I of General Palmer which went over to General Howard. General Jeff. Davis was approaching at dark, and it was supposed would be in posi- tion to-night. It took wrong road. General Howard repulsed all attacks and inflicted heavy loss, his own being light. By daylight he will be well intrenehed. W. T. SIJEliMAK, ]Uiajor- General, Connuanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 28, 1864. (Received 9.15 p. in.) General THOMAS: Try and thin your strong lines as much as possible to-morrow, so as to make good reserves for action. Let these reserves be ready to move at any moment. Our cavalry surely will reach the Macon road to-night, and to-morrow the enemy will do something desperate. W. T. SHElIMAX, iift~jor- General. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General THOMAS: Let two of your Napoleons or 20-pounder Parrott batteries keep up fire on Atlanta all night, each battery throwing a shot every fifteen minutes, partly for effect and partly as signal to oar cavalry. W. T. SHEHMAN, ]1li~or- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 18648.50 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cuinberland: GENERAL: In obedience to General Thomas order I pushed the rebel lines on my front at 4 p. ma. We carried three rifle-pits in front of General Woods and Colonel Groses divisions, captnring 20 prisoners. These men belonged to Cheathams division, late Walkers division. Cheathams division had gone off to OPPO5~ our right, leaving his pick- ets. The enemy showed at least a continuous line of troops in their works on my front, and moved men rapidly from General Gearys or General Newtons front to the works opposite General Woods right, where they were most seriously threatened. TIme rebels still hold a line of light works, a continuous rifle-pit, about 200 yards in advance of their main intrenchments. The prisoners represent that no re-enforce- ments have joined them, and that Steve Lee now commands Hoods corps, Cheatham having returned to his (livision, and that they will try to hold Atlanta. The prisoners were taken ~)r1ne1~)ally by Gibsons bri o-ade We had 1 man killed and a few wounded. The rebels can very easily reach our skirmish line with canister. I think any attac Page 281 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 281 upon their main line, cxc eptiug by a regular well managed assaulting column, must have failed. I am sorry General Newton did not take the enemys picket-line on his front; he conld easily have done so. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. P. S.Since writing the foregoing, my provost-marshal reports that he has now 40 enlisted mnemi and 3 conlmissionc(l [officers] prisoners in his hands, who were captured this afternoon. 1). 5. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 28, i8641 .45 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. ID. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: Howard has sent word that the rebels are passing to his right on the Sandtown road, and asks assistance. Morgan, with Davis division, started very promptly, and I have no more troops to spare from my own lines. lie had not, when his messenger started, heard from Morggn. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, July 28, 1864. Major.General I~ALMER, Commanding Corps: GENERAL: The order to move with my division has been received. I am too sick to go, and have turned over the command to General Morgan. I regret being sick; am too weak to sit on my horse. Per- haps I will be better by this afternoon; hope so. Very respectfully, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Lient. Col. J. S. FULLERTON: COLONEL: Moore, a scout, whom I semit out on the 26th in the fore- noon, returned this p. m. and makes the following statement: General S. D. Lee arrived abont the 25th instant from Missi~sippi and brought 3,500 troops with him. These were dismounted cavalry, are uiow used as infantry, and are in the intrenchments. Moore says he went to the depot every time the cars came into Atlanta, an(l that the trains were loaded with re-enforcemnents of the Georgia muihitia. He says many ar- rivin g in this way. Moore says he heard JudgeWriglmt and Ridley, citi- zens, say that there would be emmough of the re-enforcements to make a small corps for General Cheathaun. Moore says tIme rebels acknowledge they were (lefeated yesterday, and he heard officers talking who said they had lost between 8,000 and 9,000. Moore says he heard in Atlant Page 282 282 TIW ATLANVA CAMPAIGN. R~HA~. L yester(lay afternoon that there had been an engagement yesterday at 11 a. in., between our cavalry, under General Garrard, and the rebel cavalry, under Wheeler, in the direction of Yellow River, but he was not able to learn any of the details. Moore says that the understanding prevails in the rebel army that Atlanta is to be defended to the last extremity, but that much dissatisfaction prevails among the common soldiery about the removal of General Johnstomi and the manner in which General Hood has handled the army since taking comunmand of it. The soldiers were dissatisfied with the attacks that Hood has made. Moore says the supply of forage and subsistence is very short indeed, produced by there being now l)ut one line of railroad. When he was in Atlanta he could get no corn for his horse hitherto he had got plenty. He says he heard it said that if the rebels were driven out of Atlanta they would try to make their first stand at East Point. Moore says Stewarts and Lees corps muade the attack yesterday morning, but were subsequently re-enforced by a l)art of Hardees corps, whiclm had beemi left in the works. After time fighting ceased a I)art of the troops were brouglmt back to occupy the intremmchments around the town. Moore says they kept a stromig line in their works. Moore says our shells fall into the town ammd annoy them very munch, though they have inflicted no great loss. General Bragg is still in Atlanta. General Johnston is in Macon. General Loring was wounded in the fight yesterday severely. Moore hays he heard officers saying that they would get re-enforce- ments of militia and conscripts to make up for their late losses. Moore brings a paper of this date. Respectfully submitted, with the newspaper, for the inforniation of the corps and department commuanders. TIA. J. WOOD, Brigadier- General of Vol an teers, (Jommanding. HEA~DQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. T. WARD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The brigadier-general commanding the corps directs that, pursuant to orders of the major-general commamiding l)epartment of the Cumberland, you hold your division in readiness to move at day- break to-morrow morning in such direction as may hereafter be indi- cated. It is expected that the operatioims of the cavalry may provoke some desperate operations upon the part of the enenmy. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. E. PITTMAN, Captain and Acting Aide-dc- Camp. IIDQRS. D1~PARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: GENERAL: The corps of Hood attacked us to-day at 11.30 a. m. on the right of mny line, mainly opposite the Fifteenth Corps, with lines extending beyond my right flank. The assaults were pertinaciously kept up for four hours with scarcely any intermission, and were inva- variably repulsed. The enemys dead lie thickly on our front. We took several stand of colors and quite a number of prisoners. Ge Page 283 CHAP. L) C~OERES1NA4DENCE, ETO.UNION. 283 eral Logan bore the brunt of the battle, and his command acquitted itself nobly. Generals Blair and Dodge weakened their lines to the lowest limj~ts in order to extend his flank and re-enforce him at any point. Our casualties are small, owing to the fact that we had jnst cov- ered ourselves with rough barricades. Sonic of Polks command was engaged in the last assaults. I will make a more specific report as soon as I can get the reqnisite returns from the different commands. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]Jliajor- General. THOMAS HEADQUARTERS, July 28, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: General Howard is being hard pressed on onr right and I desire that you press the enemy with vigor in yonr front, and, if practicable, break their lines, which must be light held. Howard has been attacked, first in flank, then on his whole front, but at last report had repulsed the enemy. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch is received. I have a brigade on the railroad pressed close to the enemys works, which appear to be held in sufficient force to resist an assault. They have a heavy cross-fire of artillery. It seems to me impossible to carry any point of the enemys line without going beyond the defenses of the town, which would take me far from the rest of the army. I will reconnoiter carefully and will endeavor to gain a point of the enemys line, if I can see any chance of success. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta Ga Juli Colonel WARNER, , ., j 28, 1864. Acting Inspector- General, Thorn as Headquarters: My demonstration in front of my left shows the enemy apparently in force in his works. No change appears along my front. J. M. SCHOFIELD, illiajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General ScHOFIElD: I am starting off to the right again. I want to watch the effect on that flank. Keep things lively in your front, arid let that cavalry regi- ment feel out eastward and south, as far as they can venture. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 284 284 TIlE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ~CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Ouio, July 28, 18643.30 p. m. Major-General THOMAS: I have very little hope of being able to carry any point of the enemys works, since I cant go beyond the strong defenses of Atlanta. I will, however, move a considerable force well to my left, make some display and press strongly so as to draw off as much force from your front as l)O55iblC. J. lvi. SCHOFIELD, llfajor- General. [Indorsernent.] JULY 284 p. in. Major-General STANLEY: Should you discover that the enemy attempts to withdraw any of his forces from your front, I wish you to take advantage of it to drive him as kir as possible. See General Schofields dispatch within. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. Please return. G. II. T. HEADQUARTEES ARMY OF THE Ouio, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 18G48.l5p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have kept up my demonstration during the day, and extended it about a mile beyond the railroad. The enemy has continually moved troops to his right, and met inc in strong works with a good deal of artillery, and men enough to resist an assault. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General ScHoFIELD: One of my aides is just in from General Howard. He repulsed all attacks handsomely, the enemy leaving his dead in our possession. The number, though heavy, not yet ascertained. Our loss light, the men having temporary barricades. W. T. SIIEIIMAN, M~jor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 186L General SCHOFIELD: I have your two dispatches. I hardly expected you could carry the enemys works, but the attack on General howard was so persistent that I did not know but that Hood had actually stripped his line of all but the militia. Up to the time of may leaving the field 110 figure Page 285 CHAP L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 285 were given, but it was reported that the attack caine from Hoods corps and fell on the Fifteenth Corps. The repnls~ was complete, and we hold the ground. W. T. ShERMAN, iilajor- General, Con tmanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TilE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: General Howards conduct to-day had an excellent effect on his com- mand. After the firing had ceased he walked the line, and the men gathered about him in the most affectionate manner, and he at once gained their hearts and confidence. I deem this a perfect restoration to confidence in themselves and leader of that army. W. T. SHERMAN, iifajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MIL1TARY I)IYISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: If you have not already a command by one of your batteries of the Decatur road arl(l railway, clear out the trees so that shot and your shell can reach them easily about the brick house you burned. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jft~jor- General, Commanding. TIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE Mississippi, in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 28, 1864. General SChOFIELD: Let one of your batteries, 20-ponuder Parrott or Napoleon, throw a shot into Atlanta every fifteen minutes daring the night, partly for ef- fect and partly for signals to our cavalry. Y~T T. SHERMAN, ]iilic(jor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 28, 18649 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have your dispatch. Howards success is splendid and must go far toward determining a speedy evacuation of Atlanta. I will carry out your directions abont the night firing and command of the Decatur road. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF ~CHE OHIO Near Atlanta Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, , Ga., July 28, 1864. 61ommanding Third Division, Twenty- third Army 61orps: GENERAL: General Sherman informs me that lhoward repulsed the enemy handsomely in every attack, his dead being left in our hands; our men fought behind breast-works au(l suff~red but slight loss Page 286 286 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Figures are not given, but the loss of the enemy is said to be heavy. The general desires that the woods be cleared away so that one of your batteries shall have full command of the Decatur road about the brick house. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELl), Miajor. (ie~eral, Commanding. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, July 28, 1864. Colonel CAMERON, Commanding AS~eeond Brigade: SIR: The reconnaissance ordered from corps headquarters had oet- ter go out near the site of the brick house, pushing to the front of your old position. The regiment in support can occupy either your old line of works or that last built by the Fifteenth Corps. Let the movement be pushed so as to develop the enemys force in your front and fully detect any movement or withdrawal on their part. For the rest see the order sent last night, which the commandant of the detachment should carefully study. Yours, respectfully, ~. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD I)IYISIoN, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, July 28, 186411.30 a. m. Col. D. CAMERON, Commanding Second Brigade: SIR: The order I sent by Lieutenant Coughlan was that you should push pretty well to the right, inasmunch as you did not seem to find much resistance imi your immediate front, and the distance you had ad- vanced made it proper to take your supports nearer to the advanced line than the line of works would be. The object was, as stated in the first order, to use the full strength of one regiment ill developing the enemys position and force in front, and hold the other well in hand to support the first, or to cover a retreat, if you should be attacked by heavy force. The feeling to the right is necessary, because that is the point of danger, and x here you must be most guarded. This was simply in extension of the written orders sent, and by no means inconsistent with the spirit and general purpose, but rather in furtherance of both. I greatly regret you did not see it so. The reconnaissance will be continued as far as it can be done consistently with keeping open your communication with the division, and the direction is toward the principal line of works the enemy occupy commanding the railroad, & c. Please report progress, & c. J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD l)IYISIoN, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, July 28, 1864. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assi8tant Adjutant- General, Army of the Ohio: MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose, for the information of the com- manding general, a report just received from Colonel Cameron of hi Page 287 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 287 reconnaissance to the front. His orders (sent since this report of his was written, though before I received it) arc to continue pushing as long as he can do so without serious loss and without compromising his power to return to the position of the division. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. 1). COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Thelosure.] AT THE BRICK HOUSE, Near Atlanta, July 28, 18G41O.30 a. m. Brigadier-General Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Corps: GENERAL: I moved out with the Sixty-third Indiana and Sixty-fifth Illinois at 7 this morning, carrying out your instructions. We have pushed in the enemy~s skirmishers to their former position and now oc- cupy with our reserves the advanced pits of the former skirmish line of the Fifteenth Corps. Our line of vedettes are about 100 yards ahead of this. The enemy has a strong skirmish hue and is skirmishing with our men. The enemys position is in full view. They show a force, I should judge from the reports of Major Wilcox (in charge of the line), quite sufficient to hold it. Four companies of the Sixty-third Indiana are in position to the left of the brick house, and where, in my judg- nuent, they shouhi at present remain. The rest of the regiment is for- ward. I have sent four companies of the Sixty-fifth Illinois Volunteers forward on the right, extending to the creek. Their reserves occupy the advanced skirmish line formerly held by us. Our skirmishers have advanced here and drawn the fire of the enemy, who has a strong skir- mish line also in this direction aIl(l a battery in position, from which they have thrown several shells. The enemy has a battery in position near the railroad, in plain view of our skirmishers. This is the battery to which their prisoners belong. Major Wilcox reports the enemy mnov- ing artillery toward our left, and that working parties are actually em- ployed along the line strengthening the mnain line of works. We can keep up a brisk skirmish with the enemny, but, in mny judgment, a far- ther advance is not practicable. I have one-half of my force on the skirmish line and the other half on the works of the Fifteenth Corps and the works formerly held by ourselves. I will not change this ar- rangement unless otherwise directed. Skirmishing has become very active on the left. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANIEL CAMERON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, July 28, 18G4. Major CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- aeneral, Department of the Ohio: MAJOR: The general directs me to inelose to you the accompanying report made by Colonel Cameron of his operations to-day. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. WELLS, iMajor and Chief of Artillery Page 288 288 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HDQmA. SECOND BRIc+., TIImD Div., TWEMFY-TIJIRD CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., Jidy 28, 1861. Major WELLS, Aety. iP~st. Adjt. Gem, Third J)irision, Twenty-third Corps: MAJoR: I have the honor to report the result of the reconuaissa ace made this afternoon by the Secomi il3rigade, Third Division. Like that made this morning by two regiments of the brigade, it resulted in our driving the enemy to their works, developing their line, and showing the positiou of their artillery. The works in our front are strong and held by a considerable force. In the front of the brigade artillery opened from three different positions; I should say from eight pieces. The enemys force this morning was but slight; about 2 p. in. they coin- menced moving heavy forces to the left (cavalry and iufhntry); from the skirmish line they could be distinctly seen and heard tortifym g. As their troops passed our skirmish line near the railroad they were in full sight and were fired at by our men. Our advance was a surprise. Four large dwellings have been burned by them to-day as they fell back. Three of our regiments advanced to the left of the railroad and one to the right. The enemys line extended far to the left of ours. Our losses 14 wounded and killed. We advanced within 230 yards of their works. I have the honor to be, & c., yours, CAMERQN, Colonel, Commanding, & e. NEAR ATLANTA, 0-A., July 28, 18618 p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: Howards command got into position on right this day, and were attacked at once, the weight falling on Fifteenth Corps. Enemy charged four times in very dense timber, and were repulsed as often with what loss I cannot say; our loss not a hundred. At this hour rebels are massing against right, while Schofield and Stanley are ready to attack on our left as soon as our right is pressed heavily. Assign- ment of Howard to the Army of the Tennessee causes some discontent, but not as much as I feared. No news from cavalry raid on Macon railroad. J. C. VAN l)UZEII. CLYDE, OHIo, July 29, 1861. (Received 10 a. in.) His Excellency President LINCOLN: We have the honor to report that the remains of the distinguished Major-General McPherson are now here, at the home of his childhood and residence of his widowed mother. Some of his personal staff, a guard of honor, and a proper military escort, with umany distinguished strangers and a large conconrse of citizens are here, prepare(l to de- posit in his last resting place, at 10 oclock to-day, what now remains of the illustrious dead. C. W. PAGE, Ch (arm an Committee. R. A. FOSTER, & eretary Page 289 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 CITY POINT, VA., July 29, 186412 m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK Chief of Staff: I would approve of making the appointments of corps commanders recommended by General Thomas. In relieving General Slocum from command at Yicksburg, I would direct General Canby to send a suitable Inajor-general from his military division. General Dana would prob~ ably be the best man, but I would leave this to Canby, knowing that he would make a proper selection. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. I. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 29, 18648.30 p. rn. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 10.45 p. in.) Washington, D. C.: The result of the enemys attack yesterday, chie~y on the Fifteenth Corps, is thus reported by General Howard: We have counted 642 rebel dead, and there are still others in front of our lines. It is fair to presume that their wounded are five or six times that of their dead. Over 100 prisoners are in hand, and others being gathered up in the woods. Howard estimates the enemys loss at 5,000, and our loss at less than 000. General W. H. T. Walker was killed on the 22d, and it is now reported by prisoners that Wheeler was killed yesterday. Stephen ID. Lee, L oring, and Stewart severely wounded yesterday. We are so near the enemys line that their artillery prevents our advancing the lines so as to take full advantage of battle, they gathering into the city the wounded and more remote dead. The parapets of Atlanta present a well-filled line wherever we approach them. General Thomas is to-day making a strong reconnaissance in force toward East Point, and Gen- eral Schofield on the left. Our caYalry has now been out three days, and must have done its work about Griffin. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF TIlE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Col. JAMES A. HARDIE, (Received 2.50 a. m. 30th.) Inspector- General, Washington, D. C.: In compliance with your dispatch of the 28th instant, I now send you the names of eight colonels who are recommended by their imme- diate and superior commanders for promotion, and 1 earnestly recom- mend that they be appointed brigadier-generals: Col. William Grose, Thirty-sixth Indiana; Col. Charles C. Walcutt, Forty-sixth Ohio Col. James W. Reilly, One hundred and fourth Ohio; Col. L. P. Bradley, Fifty-first Illinois; Col. J. W. Sprague, Sixty-third Ohio; Col. Joseph A. Cooper, Sixth East Tennessee; Col. John T. Croxton, Fourth Ken- tucky; Col. William W. Belkuap, Fifteenth Iowa. Three of them are from each of the armies of the Cumberland and Tennessee, and two of the Army of the Ohio, and are all at their posts doing good service. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jih~jor.General. 19 R RYOL XXXVIII, PT Page 290 [CHAP. L. 290 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HDQR5. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1861, General THOMAS: Until the result of our cavalry is known, I want the utmost activity on our flanks. General Howard by this time must have his line strong. I wish you to take General Davis division and one of General Williams and operate from General Howards right flank toward East Point. Dont form a line, but move so as to occupy or threaten the railroad. General Schofield will do the same on the left. I will stay at home to- day to be convenient to the telegraph. Keep me well advised. Dont extend the line permanently, but operate in the nature of a strong re- connaiss~nce toward East Point, having General Howards lines as a point of departure and safety. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIvIsION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General THOMAS: Have those two divisions moved to our right, and when l General Howard reports that appearances are that Hardees corps is between his right and Turners Ferry. If so, we ought to strike it, or between it and Atlanta, at once. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. DAVI5 HEADQUARTERs, ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 29, 18641 p. rn. Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Division of the Mississippi: The two divisions were ordered out as soon as your dispatch was re- ceived at 7 a. m. Davis division is moving now by Howards right, and Wards division is moving in support of I)avis. I do not know what is on General Howards right, as I have not heard from him to-day. General Morgan was ordered to move toward the railroad by Howards rights in compliance with your orders. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, - July 29, 1864. Major.General SHERMAN: I have just returned from the right. I have intrenched Morgan on the Howells (or Greens) Ferry road, to the right and southwest of Logan. He has complete control of that road, and has his skirmishers out half a mile to his front. They have driven the rebels into intrenched rifle- pits, and report intrenched lines heavily manned a short distance in rear of their skirmish rifle-pits. I also directed Ward to take position on Morgans right and refase his right, so as to make a ~trong right flank Page 291 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 291 Ward fronts the Howells Ferry road, and runs along it toward the Chattahoochee for half a mile and then falls back this way. Howard had good ground to fight over yesterday. I saw several dead rebels that Wards meu were burying. If, after intrenching, Howard will thin out and extend to his right, Morgan and Ward can move still farther to the right, and might perhaps overlap the enemy. Whilst Morgan and Ward made their advances, I had Williams, Johnson, and Baird make strong reconnaissances to their fronts. They all report their belief that the enemy has either retired altogether, or has with- drawn the greater part of his forces, and only now has a weak skirmish line covering his fortifications around the city. I have directed them to feel strongly to-night, and determine whether the enemy has retired or not. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General~ (Copy to Generals Howard and Schofield.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 29, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I will send to General Morgan immediately for the strength of the Tenth Illinois. I take great pleasure in announcing the capture, this morning, of an entire rebel regiment115 officers and menby the First Division, Twentieth Corps, whilst advancing its lines in obedience to my orders of last night. The position gained is very advantageous to us also, as it will enable me to shorten my lines considerably and haye a better view of the ground in front. GEO. H. THOMAS, ]Jliajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DiVISION OF THE MississiPPi In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General THOMAS: Send me the names of three colonels in your command you want made brigadiers. Col. James A. Hardie, Inspector-General, notifies me that there are eight to be made out of my division. I give three to you, three to the Tennessee, and two to Ohio Department. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 29, 1~64. General THOMAS: I have ordered Howard to extend his lines to-morrow as much as pos- sible toward East Point, and wish you to continue the movement still farther, to draw the enemy out of Atlanta by threatening the railroad below. 1 send you a copy of Schofields dispatch.* I will order him to keep up the attraction on the left and feel Atlanta pretty strong. W. T. SHERMAN, __ ________ ______ __________ Major- General. * See p. 293, beginning, Colonel Reilly has just returned, & c Page 292 292 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. Official copy respectfully furnished Maj. Gen. J. M. Palmer, who will give the necessary orders to General Davis to carry out General Sher- mans instructions. When General Howard extends, you can move out and show this order to General Ward, who will move within supporting distance of him. By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General. Official copies of the foregoing referred to Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis, with instructions to carry out their provisions. A. C. MCCLURG, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. A. S. WILLIAMS, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: In accordance with orders from headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, the major-general commanding directs that you send one division of your corps to operate in conjunction with Brig. (3en. Jeff. C. Davis from Major-General Howards right flank toward East Point. The division which you send will be held in re- serve, to act as a support to General Davis division, the latter conduct- ing the reconnaissance. Major-General Howards lines will be used as a point of departure and safety for the reconnaissance. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brigadier-General GEARY, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The brigadier-general commanding the corps directs that you feel with yonr pickets during the night well out. The indications during the day have been that the enemy have been evacuating the town or intend to do so. A picket-line may be left in our front to de- ceive us; if so the general commanding desires that in the morning at daylight parties may be sent out from each division to test it, and if possible to break it and occupy the town. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 186410.15 a. m. Brig. Gen. W. T. WARD, 6~ommanding Third Division: GENERAL: I am directed by the brigadier-general commanding the corps to inclose herewith a copy of an order from the major-genera Page 293 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29~3 commanding the department to send the reserve division to support General Jeft~ Davis division upon a reconnaissance.* General Williams desires that you execute the order without delay. I have the honor to be, general, yours, respectftilly, S. E. PITTMAN, Captain and Acting Aide-dc-Camp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO Major-General SHERMAN, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. I have sent a brigade of infantry with Colonel Garrards cavalry to make a detour to the left and threaten the enemys extreme right, recon- noitering all the roads to the east and south. I will also keep up activity along my front. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Colonel Reilly has just returned from his reconnaissance to the left. He passed the left of the line occupied by the Army of the Tennessee dur- ing the battle of the 22d, and struck the rebel intrenchments about six miles from Atlanta, and three miles from the Decatur road. He drove before him a considerable force of cavalry, mostly militia, and found a brigade or more of regular infantry in the intrencliments. He kept up his demonstrations during the day and retired at night with slight loss. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: General Thomas has got two divisions to the right of General How- ard, and to-morrow will push forward close to the railroad. General Thomas thinks the enemy must be very weak in Atlanta. Feel your front strong in the morning, and repeat the movement on the left. It is time we heard something of our cavalry. W. T. SHERMAN, Alajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Major-General SHERMAN, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. L1ommanding Military Division of the Mississippi: There is a large quantity of bridge timber on the railroad near the brick house; shall I destroy it ~ J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. * See Whipple to Williams, p. 292 Page 294 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP t. 294 IIDQRS. MILITARY DIYISION OF THE MIsSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: No, do not destroy the bridge. W. T. SHERMAN, iIrctjor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS AR1~iY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. S. HASCALL, Commanding $econd Dirision, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: The commanding general desires to know whether your demonstrations to-day drew any artillery fire from the enemy or devel- oped any force in your front more than a skirmish line. General Thomas reports that it is the impression of his division commanders in front of the city on the right that the enemy has withdrawn everything but his skirmish line. If you have any reason to believe such is the con- dition of affairs in your front the commanding general desires you to push forward either to-night, or at daylight in the morning, and ascer- tain the true condition of affairs. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. 4. D. Cox, Commanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Please send a brigade to make a vigorous demonstration upon the enemys extreme right. The brigade might go as far east as iDecatnr, thence south and west, but must of course be handled with discretion as well as vigor. Colonel Garrard with his regiment of cav- alry will be ordered to report to the brigade commander and act with the infantry. The main object is a diversion in favor of our cavalry, also to prevent any movement of the enemys cavalry upon our flank or rear. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, July 29, 18649.15 a. m. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL Assistant Adjutant- General, & e.: SIR: The dispatch of the commanding general is received. I have ordered Colonel Reilly to move out his brigade at once, for the proposed demonstration, taking the road near General Hascalls old front (on 20th instant) leading into the Decatur and Atlanta road, near where the left of the Army of the Tennessee formerly was, thence to the position oce Page 295 Gnx~. L] cORrn~SPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 295 pied by me during the night of the 22d, and which is about one mile and a half from Decatur. Here a road runs to the south, and I have directed that after sending a portion of his force into Decatur and clearing it, his principal reconnaissance be pushed by this sonth road till he finds the enemys extreme right and fully carries out the instructions of the generals dispatch, keeping communication by flankers (as lie may) with our picket-line in the new works made by the Army of the Ten- nessee. If the commanding general desires to modify these instructions I would like to be informed early. Also where Colonel Garrard will re- port to Colonel Reilly. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. ~ Brigadier~ General, Commanding. HEADQUAnTERS AnMY OF THfl Onio, Brig. Gen. ~. D. c~ Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Gommanding Third Division, Twenty-third Army Oorps: GENERAL: The commanding general directs me to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch of 9.15 a in., and to inform you that Colonel Garrard has been ordered to report to Colonel Reilly on the Atlanta and Decatur road. Your instructions to Colonel Reilly will not be modified at present. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assista t Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CoRPS, Maj. J. A. CAMPEELL, Before Atlanta, July 29, 1864. Assistant Adjutant-General, Ar my of the Ohio: MAJOR: I have the honor to hand you copies of dispatches* sent Colonel Cameron yesterday. Immediately aftei receiving the order from corps headquarters in the night of the 27th I sent Colonel Cam- eron a copy, simply directing him to make the reconnaissance in accord- ance with it. I then sent dispatch No. 1 to him at 5 oclock in the morning. Between 7 and 8 I was myself near the batteries occupied by our troops in the old line, and hearing only a little skirmishing toward the right of his line of skirmishers, I sent my aide, Lieutenant Coughlan, with verbal directions to Colonel Cameron to push his ad- vanced regiment more vigorously, and if the resistance was, as it seemed, chiefly on his right, to make the movement take that direction, moving up his supports from the works, and holding them well in hand to press the enemy, or to cover a retreat if his advance should meet a force greater than the whole of his. He appeared unwilling, as Mr. Coughlan reports, to receive any verbal instructions, saying lie already had his orders in writing. After waiting more than an hour after Lieutenant Couglilans return, and hearing no lively skirmishing, I sent dispatch No. 2, and a little later urged the same in person on Colonel Camerons coming himself to report progress. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. *See p. 256 Page 296 29t THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. tCHA1~. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Col. ISRAEL GARRARD, Commanding Seventh Ohio Caxairy: COLONEL: Colonel Reilly, commanding brigade, Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps, has been ordered to make a vigorons demon- stration upon the enemys extreme right. The object is a diversion in favor of onr cavalry and also to prevent any movement of the enemys cavalry upon our flank or rear. The commanding general directs that you report with your regiment to Colonel Reilly and act with the in- f~ntry. Colonel Reillys brigade is now moving toward Decatur on the Atlanta and Decatur road, and you will report to him on the road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, CAVALRY CORPS, Near General Stanleys Line, outside the Skirmish Line, Major CAMPBELL, July 29, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Ohio: MAJOR: I have the honor to report that the scouting party under Captain Rankin, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, which has just re- turned from Decatur, reports no enemy in that direction, and none have passed through since the cavalry force that followed General Stone- man. The report of citizens, negroes, and the condition of the roads since the rain of day before yesterday, all sustain the correctness of this report. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ISRAEL GARRARD, Colonel, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 29, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Send me the names of two colonelsnames you want made brigadier- generals. Keep things active on your front and flank. The utmost activity should be kept up till our cavalry is heard from. Thomas will make a strong demonstration toward East Point with two divisions of his reserve. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, July 29, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I have reliable information that Hardee is making a movement of some kind and some indications that he is trying to place his force be- tween me and Turners Ferry. What is the extent of General Thomas demonstration on my right, and when will it take place i 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General Page 297 CHAP. ti CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 297 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Missxssi~~i, ~n the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General HOWARD: General Thomas demonstration will be with two divisions, and should be progressing now. I will inquire of him when it started. If we dis- cern such a move you can let go your lines and throw your force with Thomas reserves between Hardee and Atlanta. I think you will find it an infantry force to interpose between our cavalry, which is out, and its return. But it will not return that way. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General HOWARD: Avail yourself of the good opportunity of General Thomas recon- naissance in force to push your vedettes well out toward White Hall. Secure the enemys dead, count them, and have them buried. Our cav- alry operations must now be presumed to be felt. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, July 29, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: General Thomas occupies a good position across the Sandtown road, masking the Fifteenth Army Corps. If desirable, I can move forward in the morning, relieving General Thomas so that he can extend his lines still farther. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General HOWARD: You may extend to the front and right toward East Point as much ~s possible, and General Thomas will also continue iii the same direc- tion. I think we can draw the enemy out of Atlanta or force him to the attack, which is to be desired. I will be over to-morrow W. T. SHERMAN Major- General, fJomrnanding. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, July 29, 1864. General SHERMAN: My officers and scouts report no enemy toward the west, nor between me and Turners Ferry. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- Gcrteral Page 298 (CHAP. L 298 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HDQR8. MILITARY DIvIsION o~ THE MiSsisSIPPI, In the Field, near Atla~nta, Ga., July 29, 1864. General HOWARD: Telegraph me the names of three colonels that you want made briga- dier-generals. Go on and strengthen your position. Study its roads and front. General Thomas will make a strong demonstration on your right. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommandin.q. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Geii. GILES A. SMITH, Comdg. Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Corps: The general commanding thanks you for the assistance rendered him yesterday by sending to his support the Fifteenth Iowa and Thirty- second Ohio Regiments, under command of Col. William W. Belknap. - The general also thanks Colonel Belkuap and his brave men for the efficient manner in which they performed their duty. By order of Brig. Gen. M. L. Smith: G. LOFLAND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. M. CoRsE Comdg. Second Division, Sixteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: You will immediately relieve a regiment of General Ful- lers command immediately on your right with a regiment of General Rices brigade now in reserve. You will hold Lieutenant-Colonel Phil- lips command in reserve ready to move at a moments warning, should occasion require. By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: GEG. C. TICHENOR, Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. W. RICE, Commanding F*rst Brigade: The general commanding desires you to push forward your skirmish line for the purpose of ascertaining what is in your front, observing due caution. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. H. EVERTS, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 299 CHAI~. t.] - CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 299 IIDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Maj. S. B. MOE, Resaca, Ga., July 29, 1864. Assistant Adjutant- General: MAJOR: A detachment of the Third Kentucky Cavalry, under the command of Captain Cummings, numbering 250 men, returned from Pickens County to-day, having been out seven days. They engaged Jordans band of guerrillas, killing 9 and wounding 4; the latter made good their escape. Pickens County is thoroughly loyal. Nearly 1,000 persons met at Jasper to congratulate our troops upon their success. A company of home guards, numbering 128, was raised on the spot. A delegation of five waited on me to-day and applied for arms. I believe I can arm 400 loyal men in Gordon, Pickens, Gilmer, and Murray Coun- ties. I respectfully request that arms be obtained for this purpose at the earliest practicable moment. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, GREEN B. ItAUM, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., July 29, 186410.30 p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKERT: Two divisions of the Army of the Cumberland went to right to-day, and Thomas has put them in position. Says united testimony of all his generals is that enemy holds Atlanta with mere shell of an army. Stoneman heard from at Fayetteville. Successful so far. Six hundred and forty-two dead rebels counted and buried by Logan to-day. They must have lost 3,000 at least, while Logans entire casualties are less than 500. We look for decisive action to-morrow. No fears of result. J. C. YAI DUZEII. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 65. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. * * * * * * II. The commanding general takes pleasure in announcing to the troops of this command the result of the engagement of yesterday. The enemy repeatedly attacked, with great vigor and in heavy force, the Army of the Tennessee, commanded, since the death of the lamented General McPherson, by General Howard. At every point the enemy was repulsed with tremendous slaughter, our forces capturing several stand of colors and a number of prisoners. The rebels did not lose less than 10,000 in killed, wounded, and prisoners, while our loss did not exceed 2,000. Our victory was complete. By command of Major.General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 82. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., July 29, 1864. * * * * * * * IV. Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, will reduce his command to one good line, keeping not more than one brigade as a reserve, relieving a portion of General Blairs left Page 300 300 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair, commanding Seventeenth Army Corps, will diminish his command to one line also, not holding more than one bri- gade as a reserve, relieving a portion ot General Logans left. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, will then complete his line of works to his right. The object being to extend the line as far as possible to the right, the intrenchments will be made strong and gronnd cleared well to the front. Corps commanders will report the execution of this order of the completion of their line. * * * * * * * XI. Corps commanders will be prepared at 8 a. m. to-morrow to move their commands forward, in order to extend our lines as far to the right as possible and relieve the troops of Major-General Thomas command, now occupying a position on our right flank. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, July 30, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding, & c., before Atlanta, Ga.: Cols. William Grose, Thirty-sixth Indiana; Charles C. Walcutt, Forty- Sixth Ohio; James W. Reilly, One hundred and fourth Ohio; Luther P. Bradley, Fifty-first Illinois; John W. Sprague, Sixty-third Ohio; Joseph A. Cooper, Sixth Tennessee; John T. Croxton, Fourth Ken- tncky, and William W. Belkuap, Fifteenth Iowa Volunteers, were this day appointed brigadier-generals of volunteers. The appointments will be forwarded without delay JAS. A. liAR DIE, Colonel and Inspector-General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MiSSISSIPPI, in the Field near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. (Received 9.45 p. in.) Col. JAMES A. HARnIE, Inspector- General, Washington, D. C.: Be pleased to convey my thanks to the President for his prompt bestowal of the appointments as brigadier-generals on the eight most worthy colonels named in your dispatch to-day. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. llnQR~. MILITARY DrVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. General THOMAS: Send two or three of your best scouts across to the west bank of the Chattahoochee, and down till they come to where General McCook crossed with his pontoons. Ascertain if the bridge is still down and guarded, and how guarded, and with orders to send us back word and news from our cavalry. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 301 CHAP. IL.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 301 HDQRS. MiLITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. General THOMAS: J am starting for General Howards headquarters. Any message for me will reach me there. I have ordered Captain Poe to examine and select a line as a left flank in case I have to throw General Schofield on the right. - W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, July 30, 1864. General THOMAS: Our right is too much refused to be a threat. I will go to Schofields to-morrow and examiiie a point near Stanleys left to see what chance to break in there. As soon as the cavalry returns I will probably throw Schofield over, and in the mean time want that flank well studied. I would like to have you go to Davis division and cause a bold recon- naissance over toward East Point. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 18642 p. in. Colonel GROSE, Commanding First Division, Fourth Army Corps: COLONEL: The requirements of the service may render it necessary for the divisions of this corps to extend and still further thin out their lines. To prepare for this, which may occur to-morrow, all of the men with tools will be put to work at. once to strengthen our present de- fenses. The parapets are deemed sufficiently strong already, and addi- tional strength can be best given by increasing our abatis and fasten- ing it to the ground by strong cross stakes; the cutting and tangling of brnshwood, to give a better range and increased obstacle, will be particularly attended to. The passages to the front through the abatis must only be, in number, one to each battalion for a single file. ,and only wide enough By order of Major-General Stanley: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Generals Newton and Wood.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, July 30, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army 6orps: GENERAL: The following copy of a telegram* just received from Major-General Sherman is sent you for your information. You will please give General Davis the necessary orders to carry the order contained therein into execution. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. * See above, beginning, Our right is too much refused, & c Page 302 [CHAP. L, 302 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. Capt. A. C. McICLURG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fourteenth Corps: CAPTAIN: Please say to General Palmer that Colonel Taylor, in charge of the picket-line, has just come in, and reports the line strongly intrenched. He says there is an elegant place for a section of artillery at the point on the railroad at which my left rests. The embrasures of the rebel work are in full view. Guns placed there would have to be sunk or otherwise strongly protected. The men at work on the skir- mish line were subjected to a pretty heavy fire from the rebel fort, though not one single man was killed or wounded. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H ~. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, Myers House, July 30, 1864. Captain MCCLuRG, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fourteenth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report everything quiet on General Morgans front last night; little firing on the skirmish line. Morgan is intrenched on the road in advance of Howards right. Ward is on his right. Generals Thomas and Howard put them in position last evening. Howard is to conform his lines to theirs to-day. Very respectfully, ThF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE~ Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that I advanced this morning the picket-lines of the corps to the high ground in front of the former line. In front of the First Division nearly the whole of the enemys pickets were captured by us (about 100 prisoners). Our loss is slight, 4 men wounded. I shall establish the picket-line of the corps on the advanced position gained by us. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. S. WILLIAMS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864~ Brigadier-General GEARY, - - - Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The brigadier-general commanding the corps directs me to inform you that the picket-line of the First Division has been con- siderably advanced this morning, and that he wishes you to advanc Page 303 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENcE, ETC.UNION. 303 the right of your picket-line, jf you have not already done so, to con- nect with it in the advance position. He captured 100 prisoners, with very slight loss to us. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, A*~istant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIo, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 18646 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: A rebel scouting party which came into Decatur this morning in- formed the citizens that the railroad had been cut by our cavalry at a~ place called Jonesborough, as it was understood by Colonel Garrard, who brought the report. J. M. SCHOFIELD, (Copy to Thomas and Howard.) J General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: 1 am starting for the right. It may become necessary to shift you to the extreme right, in which case our left will be back of Pea Vine Creek, from General Woods right back to the rebel lines, with a detachment at Buck Head, but this I do not propose till General Garrard is back. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have been over to the right to-day. Our troops are on the Sand- town road. The enemy must follow that movement, and if they hold a force on your left front it is only for effect. They will weaken about General Stanley. I will come over to-morrow. I hope to hear of our cavalry to-morrow. When it is back, I will probably shift you over to the right. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 30, iS648 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: The enemy has shown more force than usual in his main works in my front to-day, and has been erecting a battery a short distance in front of his old works on the railroad bridge, where I pressed him closely on the 28th. Colonel Garrard reports no movement on our left, except a small body of cavalry, which he drove from Decatur this morning. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General Page 304 [CHAD. L. 304 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 30, 1864. Major.General SHERMAN: I have your dispatch expressing your desire that I advance my picket- line in front of the distillery near the road leading to Atlanta. I tried that on the 28th and found it impracticable, for this reason, viz, the point referred to is in a large re-entering angle of the enemys works, and the enemys picket-line in that vicinity is enfiladed by the artillery of both the adjacent salients. Neither the enemys picket-line, nor even the main curtain in rear, should be held by our troops until those sali- ents are carried. One of them is three-quarters of a mile to my left, and hence beyond my reach. The other is somewhat to my right. I will see General Stanley and ascertain what can be done about this latter salient. Perhaps we can drive in the skirmishers around it and keep down its fire with our sharpshooters. IRespeetfully, ~. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. GeneraV SCHOFIELD: Order Colonel Garrard to feel into Decatur again in the morning, and, without seeming anxious, to pick up any further news of our cavalry. Where did General Garrard leave his wagons and lame horses ~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN: I do not know where General Garrard left his wagons and horses. They were not reported to my quartermaster. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. Col. ISRAEL GARRARD, Commanding Seventh Ohio Cavalry: COLONEL: The commanding general desires you to feel into Decatur with your regiment to-morrow morning, and, if possible, pick up some information about the movements of our cavalry. Do not appear to be anxious to obtain the information or intimate that we are not already informed of all the movements of Generals Stoneman and Garrard, but find out from the citizens or others where the cavalry is and what it has accomplished. Please report the result of your inquiries as soon as you have procured any reliable information. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, - Major and Assistant Adjutant-General Page 305 CHAP. 1.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, July 30, 1864. Lient. Col. W. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General, Dept. and Army of the Tennessee: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have ocduj)ied the line designated for this corps, extending from the point previously occupied by the left of my right (Fourth) (livision to the J)oint on the ridge to the extreme right indicated by Lieutenant-Colonel Strong. Several hours since the men commenced building works, and they are now sufficiently advanced to insure the safety of the men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, Jn., JlIajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. Aide-de-Gamp and Aety. Asst. Adjt. Gen., ]Jiliil. Div. of the Miss.: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to represent that in the recent operations this command has become reduced to about 6,400 effective men. A large number of the officers and men of this corps have beemi l~ft be- hind sick and slightly wounded in hospitals at Cairo, Nashville, Louis- ville Huntsville, and Rome, and I am satisfied there are many of them ready for the field who have been improperly detailed at these points and at Saint Louis, Mo. I have, therefore the honor to request that Maj. G. W. Kennard, Twentieth Illinois Infantry Volunteers, may be sent to these points for the purpose of collecting and returning all men fit f~r duty to this command, with full authority to send to the front all officers and men who, iii his opinion, have been improperly detailed or are absent without proper authority from this command. In the recent battles Major Kennards regiment has been reduced to about twenty-five men, with whom there are two line and one field oflicer, so that he can easily be spared, and as he is an active and efficient officer, I am satisfied he will be able to collect a large number of men who will otherwise remain as extra nurses and servants to officers. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 3~, 1861. JOHN A. SPOONER, Esq., Agent for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Nashville: SIR: Yours froni Chattanooga of July 28 is received, notifying me of your appointment by your State as lieutenant-colonel and provost-mar- shal for Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, under the act of Congress approved July 4, 1864, to recruit volunteers to be credited tIme quotas of the States, respectively. 0mm applying to General Webster at Nashville he will grant you a pass through our lines to these States, and as I have had considerable exl)erience in those Stales would suggest recruititig de- pots to be established at Macon and Columbus Mi cry, and Mobile, Ala., aimd Columbus, K, ss.; Sehna, Montgom- Milledgeville, and S~w~innah, Ga, 20 R IlVOL XXXVIII~ PT Page 306 [CHAP. L. 306 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. I do not see that the law restricts you to black recruits, but you are at liberty, I suppose, to collect white recruits also. it is waste of time and mouey to open rendezvous iu Northwest Georgia, for I assure you I have not seen au able-bodied mali, black or white, fit for a soldier, who was not in this army or the one opposed to it. You speak of the inipression going about that I am opposed to the organization of colored regiments. My opinions are usually very positive, and there 15 110 reason why you should not know them. Though entertain- ing profound reverence for our CongTess, I do doubt their wisdom in the passage of this law, first, because civilian agents about an army are a nuisance; second, the duty of citizens to fight for their country is too sacred a one to be peddled off by buying up the refuse of other States; third, it is unjust to the soldiers and volunteers who are fighting, as those who compose this army are doing, to place them On a par with the class of recruits you are after; fourth, the negro is in a transition state, and is not the equal of the white man; fifth ,he is liberated from his bondage by act of war, and the armies in the field are entitled to all his assistance in labor and fighting in addition to the proper quota of the States; sixth, this bidding and bartering for recruits, white and black, has delayed the re-enforcemeiit of our armies at the time when such re-enforcements wonld have enabled us to make our successes permanent; seventh, the law is an experiment which, pending war, is unwise and unsafe, and has delayed the uni- versal draft which I firmly believe will become necessary to overcome the widespread resistance offered us, and I also believe the universal draft will be wise and beneficent, for, under the providence of God, it will separate the sheep from the goats, and demonstrate what citizens will fight for their country and what will only talk. No one shall infer from this that I am not the friend of the negro as well as the white race. I contend that the treason and rebellion of the master freed the slave, and I and the armies I have commanded have conducted to safe points more negroes than those of any other general officer in the army, but I prefer some negroes as pioneers, teamsters, cooks, and servants; others gradually to experiment in the art of the soldier, be- ginning with the duties of local garrison, such as we had at Memphis, Yicksburg, Natchez, Nashville, and Chattanooga. But I would not draw on the poor race for too large a proportion of its active, athletic young men, for some must reniain to seek new homes and l)rovide for the old and young, the feeble and helpless. These are some of my peculiar notions, but 1 assure you they are shared by a large proportion of our fighting men. You may show this to the agents of the other States in the same business with yourself. & c., W. T. SHEI~MAN, Major- General. (Copy to Generals Thomas, Schofield, Howard, and Webster.) BEFOnE ATLANTA, GA., July 30, 18619 p. m. Maj. T. T. ECKEuT: Our line was extended nearly two miles down tIme Sandtown road to- day without meeting any resistance, and is now intrenched in the new posi~iom Th~ failure of enemy to attack while movement was in prog Page 307 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN1ON. 307 ress, and reports of scouts and rebel prisoners that Stoneman had destroyed the railroad at Jonesborough, give rise to rumor of evacuation of Atlanta, which I am inclined to credit the more because of great activity of their artillery until just now. J. C. VAN DUZETh Consolidated semi-monthly field return of artillery in the Army of the Ohio for July 30, 1864. Effective force. Casualties. _______________ a a Men. ~,3 a Battery. Division. . a -~ a aO a 0 ~-. ~ ~ a . ~ a 0 ~ a a ~ a ~ ~ o a ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ ~ 19th Ohio Second 4 88 4 4 464 60 10 22d Indiana do a iii 4 4 204 86 2 5 1st Michigan Artillery do 4 96 4 4 734 81 1 2 4 (F). 15th Indiana Third 3 108 4 4 640 74 3 23d Indiana do 4 117 4 4 445 68 3 1st Ohio volunteer ....do 4 106 4 5 640 72 el 1 Light Artillery (D). 24th Indianab Cavalry Corps - Total 22 626 25 441 2 5 25 ~-~ ~ a Died. S No ~report; Cavalry Corps is on an expedition. I certify that the above report is correct. G. W. SCHOFIELD, Licut. Gol. and Chief of Arty. and Ord., Dept. of the Ohio. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WAR DEPT ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 238. 5 Washington, July 30, 186-1. The following assignments are hereby made: 1. Maj. Gen. 0.0. Howard to the command of the Army and Depart- ment of the Tennessee. 2. Maj. Geii. H. W. Slocum to the command of the Twentieth Army Corps, vice Major-General Hooker, who is relieved at his own request. 3. Maj. Gen. I). S. Stanley to the command of the Fourth Army Corps, vice M~jor-General Howard, transferred to the Army and Department of the Tennessee. By order of the President of the United States: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS LEFT WINS-, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 50. ) Near Atlanta, Ga., July 30, 1864. * * * * * * * II. The Seventeenth Army Corps are moving to the right, amid the Fourth Division will stretch out their line as far as possible and cover the ground left vacant, drawing out troops froru thc~-lcft if necessary Page 308 ECHAP. L. 308 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. Second. Brig. Gen. J. M. Corse will stretch out the Second Division and occupy the ground vacated by General Fuller. The movement will be made immediately. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. Dodge: ~ ~. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 31, 1~48 p. m. (Received 12~,15 p. m. August 1.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: No change since my last. Weather has been intensely hot, and to- day it is raining hard. General Garrards cavalry is back. General Stonemnan placed it at Flat Rock to cover his movement south. Gen- eral Garrard reports the enemys cavalry all round him for two d~ays, when he charged out and went to Latiniars, where he heard that Gen- eral Stoneman had passed Covington, so he got two full days start for Macon. I will not hear of Imium for some days. From rumors among the people, I think he struck the road, for it is reported broken at Jonesborough. To-morrow night I will move Gemieral Schofield to the extreme, right and draw the enemy out to East Point. His works are too strong for an assault, and we cannot spare the ammunition for a bombardment. ~ T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. General WEBSTER, Nashville: Many prisoners escal)ed from the enemy are coining in the lines, whom I pass to you by the generals direction, and you will forward to their regiments, allowing, say, a weeks leave at home. 1~. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. hEADQUARTERS 1)EPARTMENT OF TIlE CUMBERLAND, Extreme Eight, July 31, 18649.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: GENERAL: I find that General Howard has simply taken up the line occupied by General Morgan on the afternoon of the 29th. If he would straighten his line and intrench it, his right would be much nearer the railroad. Generals Morgan an(l Ward could have supported his right whilst lie was intrenching. Taking up the line he did rendered it neces- sary for General Morgan to extend his line along the road to Greens Ferry or isolate his command. The reconnaissance has been ordered as you directed, but General Morgan will have to return in consequence of General Howard having taken up his old line instead of exteiiding his, Howards, line toward the railroad, as I should have thought he would have done. Respectfully, GEO. ~. THOMAS, Major. General Page 309 CHA?. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 309 HDQRS. MILJTAi~y DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, - In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. Geiieral THOMAS: I have further news of General MeCook. The officer who commands the pontoon train is back with his boats at Vinings. At 2 p. m. on Friday Geiieral MeCook was across at IRivertown with 3,000 men and started out. That night the officer saw large fires in the direction of the railroad. He was oi~dered to come back to Vinings, with his boat train by General MeCook, who expected to come back by a circuit north. W. T. SHEIIMAN, Major- General, Commanding. (Same to Generals Schofield and Howard.) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 31, 1864S jp. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have just returned from the right. General Howards troops only occupy the -intrenchments made by Morgan and Ward, whereas lie should have extended his line toward the railroad, throwing out as his intrenchments were completed. Morgan and Ward could then have supported his right as he extended his lines. I think Howards army will reach very nearly to the railroad when intrenched and thrown out as my troops are. Should Schofield move to the right he will surely reach the road; thus Morgan and Warij can be held in reserve arid in support of the right flank as it progresses toward the railroad. The reconnaissauce you ordered was made to-day by Morgan. He found the enemy covered by a strong imifantry skirmish line with artillery on a road leading direct to East Point from a house on the Greens Ferry road, about a mile from the rear of our right. The troops moved about a mile and -a half on that road before encountering the enemy. Morgaim returned to his camp toward night, as I did not deem it prudent to have him so far to Howards right. I thimuk I understamud the direc- tions of all the roads leading toward East Point from all points directly in our rear. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSIssIppj, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. General THOMAS: I have your dispatch, which is most satisfactory. I think Gemmeral Schofield, supported by Generals Davis and Ward, will reach the rail- road. At all events, it is our true move. General Garrards cavalry can occupy General Schofields lines, arid General Stanleys left, refused along Pea Vine will make good flank, covering Buick Head and the Paces Ferry road. This will enable you with your main army to press on Atlanta,. whilst General Howard advances his right amid General Scho- field extends, supported by Generals Davis and Ward, will make an army equal to Hoods movable column. I think I appreciate General Gar- rards good qualities, but he is so cautious that if forced to make a bol Page 310 310 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP II move to the relief of General McCook I (lonbt if he would attempt it. General Stoneman went with a full knowledge of his risk; but General McCook will have reason to exl)ect co-operation from about McDollough, and may be disappointed when he finds his bridge gone and a new road ahead closed by Wheeler. He has, however, a bold and well-appointed force and can fight his way back; still, for his sake, we must occupy the attention of the enemy as much as possible. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. Generals THOMAS and HOWARD: A cavalryman, just in, says General Garrard is coming in by the Peach Tree road; had a small light first day, none since. Says Gen- eral Stoneman has gone on, so that branch of the raid seems to be do- ing well. I now want news of General McCook. As soon as General Garrard comes I will order some cavalry down the west bank of the Chattahoochee to see to General McCooks bridge. Though the heat is intense, the time is for a bold reconnaissance and threat about East Point. - W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. Generals THOMAS and HOWARD: I am just back from an interview with General Schofield. General Garrard is back. He was sent by General Stoneman to Flat Rock, where lie was surrounded by Wheelers cavalry, but he remained two days, expecting General Stoneman to send him orders, when he broke out to Lathuars, where he heard General Stoneman had gone to Coving- ton and beyond. Not having further orders lie came home via the Peach Tree road. His fight was a small affair, losing only 1 officer and 6 men wounded, and riding down one brigade of the enemy. He thinks Wheeler still remains on the right of Atlanta, extending the infantry line. I thjnk General Stoneman has gone to Macon, east of Yellow River, and that it is well. I have ordered General Garrard in on our left, and to-morrow night will let him fill with a skirmish line General Schofields position, and move all of General Schofield to the right of General Howard, and wish the (hivisions of Generals Davis and Ward in reserve on the right to strike a blow beyond our new right flank when intrenched. Our right flank must be advanced in close and absolute contact with the enemy, and with Geiieral Scho- field on that flank I think we can make him quit Atlanta, or so weaken his lines that we can break through somewhere, the same as our Kene- saw move. Study the road so that Generals Schofield and Howard may have a line close up to the enemy, as close as possible. I will send a regiment of cavalry down the west bank of the Chattahoochee to feel for General McCook. 1 must have a bolder commander for General Garrards cavalr~y and want General Thomas to name to me General Kilpatrick or some good brigadier for the command. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding Page 311 CHAP. Lj CORJU~PQNDENCE, ETC.UNION. 311 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 31, 18648.30 p. rn. Major-General ShERMAN: I do not know of a better cavalry commander in my army thaii Gar- rard. He is an excellent administrative officer, and I have no doubt you will find on inquiry that his orders from Stoneman were indefinite. Garrarci is much more judicious than Kilpatrick, who can knock up his horses as rapidly as any man I know. I think if you will bear with Garrard you will find in a short time he will be the best cavalry coin- mander you have. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, July 31, 18646 a. in. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Assi8tant Adjutant- General: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Davis expresse(l to Mr. Shaw upon the delivery of the order of the major-general commanding the military division his inability to understand the method of the proposed recomi- naissance. - He says his division is in line, the enemy being in position about 1,200 yards to his front, and the division of Brigadier-General Ward in position on his right. If he advances it amounts to an assault upon the enemys position. If he withdraws with a view to passing to General Wards rear he leaves a gap. As this is the fourth order from the headquarters of the military division imposing special duties upon Davis division away from his corps, I do not feel at liberty to interfere even by advice; but as he still nominally belongs to the Fourteenth Corps, hope I will be pardoned for acting in the matter so far as to com- municate his difficulties and in asking from the proper authoritysuch further and more precise instruc1~ions as it may be thought proper to give him. Very respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: It is going to be terrifically hot, but I must ask you to meet me at 10 a. m. at General Woods, with your maps and any notes of observations of the enemys works between your left and General Stanleys center. W. T. SHERMAN, Aibijor- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have news from General Garrard. lie camped eighteen miles from here last niglmt, on the Peach Tree road, and is coming toward Buc Page 312 312 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. CHAP. 1. Head now; had a small fight first day; since, nothing. I think I under- stood the man, and that General Stoneman has gone on to Macon and Anderson[villeJ; a desperate move, but may succeed for its desperation. W. T. SHEIRMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, July 31, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I had started Colonel Garrard to aid General McCook in recrossing the river. I will order him back now that I know McCook is going the other way. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., July 31, 1864. Col. ISRAEL GARRARD, Commanding & renth Ohio Caralry: COLONEL: In compliance with orders from Major-General Sherman, you will move with your regiment across the Chattahoochee at or near the railroad bridge; thence down the west bank of the river to a point (understood to be near Cainpbellton) where General McCook left his pontoon bridge after crossing the river on his present raid. The object of your expedition is to aid General MeCook in recrossing the river on his return. It is understood that General McCook left a regiment of cavalry with his bridge for the above purpose. If you find this to be the case, you will join that regiment and act in concert with it in car- rying out General McCooks instructions. In any event, you will watch carefully for General McCooks troops for some distance up and down the river, endeavor to give early information of their return, and learn at what point they propose to cross, so as, if practicable, to have the bridge laid by the time his troops reach the river. You will use your utmost endeavors to assist General MeCooks troops in a safe passage of the river. Having completed this duty, you will report for further in- structions at these headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., CAY. COMMAND, DEPT. OF THE OHIO, 8un day, July 31, 1864. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Ohio: I have the honor to report that the most thorough and careful inves- tigation of all tIme news and reports among the citizens of Decatur has satisfied me that there was a fight of no great importance with the rear of Stonemans column near Flat IRock, but further than that I (10 not consider the reports to be entirely reliable. They are all founded o Page 313 CHAP. L.J COIIUESPONDENcIE, 1~TC.tYNTON. 313 the report brought to a Mrs. Smith by a rebel patrol, Tom Jones, who told her that things were going badly; that Stoneman had left a small force to hold them in check at Flat Rock and had gone across to Jones- borough and destroyed the road for ten miles, and was going on down toward Macon, destroying the road; that on Wednesday the troops in Atlanta had been allowed to plunder the stores and take all the liquors and goods. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ISRAEL GARRARD, Colonel & venth Ohio Vol. Cavalry, Commanding Brigade. There was a vedette (rebel) near the town as we entered it, and while there some three hours, some ten or twelve showed themselves on the far side of soTue old fields half a mile beyond our picket. They left when fired on. I. G. hEADQUARTERs DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, July 31, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: My skirmishers were pushed forward early this morniug and a strong line in front of General Logan iu nature of a reconnaissance. General Logans skirmishers came up on the enemys line of skirmishers occupy- ing rifle-pits from three-quarters of a mile to a mile froum their main works, which can be plainly seen. They appear to be strongly intrenched all the way to my extreme right. Artillery was heard moving out from Atlanta, which stopped in front of General Logans line. Our vedettes are now close upon the enemy. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. BEFO~E ATLANTA, GA., July 31, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commahding Military Division, of the Mississippi: My scouts fimid only cavalry pickets of this army beyond our infantry flank. I (lid not know General Thomas would make a reconnaissance to-day on my. right until I heard the firing. Should I take steps to ad- vance prior to General Schofields arrival, i. e., to close in ou the enemy, it can easily be done. Captain Poe took a map with the information as to White Hall, & c., that you required. 0. 0. hOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPpI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. General HOWARD: I would like to have a line of ground examined in fromit of what on your topographical maps is called the Asylum, east and south. On study- ing my maps 1 think tIme road by which the enemy caine the other day to attack you is the old Sandtown road, and that it passes by Whit Page 314 314 ~PIIE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ICHAP L. Hall. White Hall is well fortified, but a point of the railroad between there and East Point is not. I have ordered General Thomas to repeat the reconnaissance toward East Point. I will be with General Schofield to-day. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Jnly 31, 1864. General HOWARD: I would like you to advance your right to-morrow from about the meeting-house toward East Point, ready for General Schofield to pro- long your line. Generals Davis and Wards divisions are at hand to back you. General Thomas has made reconnaissances half a mile to- ward East Point. I expect both White Hall and East Point are forti- fled, but there must be a weak point in the long curtain between. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Jnly 31, 1864. General HOWARD: General Garrard did not destroy any of the railroad. He was posted at Flat Rock by General Stoneman to occupy the attention of the en- mys cavalry, which he (Stonemari) pressed to his rear and south. All we know ot the Macon road is from a Colonel Garrard, with General Schofield, who visited Decatur and learned from a woman that the en- emys cavalry had been to Decfttur, and reported that our cavalry had got 011 the road at Jonesborough and burned ten miles of the road and was going on down burning as he went. General Garrard staid two days at Flat Rock; says lie was completely surrounded, but cut his way out, though his loss was trifling. The locomotives that are whistling near you may be bagged. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, A. D. C. and A. A. A. G., Military Division of the Mississippi: CAPTAIN: The following regiments and detachments were detailed from this corps to take part in the Red River expedition, under General A. J. Smith, viz, Third Iowa Infantry Volunteers, Forty-first Illinois Infantry Volunteers, Eighty-first Illinois Infantry Volunteers, Ninety- fifth Illinois Infantry Volunteers, Fourteenth Wisconsin Infantry Vol- unteers, Thirty-third Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, Fifty-eighth Ohio Infantry V olunteers. 1 heard unofficially that upon their return to the Mississippi Riyer they were ordered to rejoin this corps, but were d Page 315 CItAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. ~15 tamed at Memphis to take part in the recent operations of General A. J. Smith in Mississippi. Learning that this expedition has accom- 1)lished its purpose and has returned to Memphis, I have the honor to request that if consistent with the interests of the public service, these regiments and detachments may be ordered to rejoin this com- mand without delay. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major-General. CARTERSYILLE, GA., July 31, 1864. Lient. D. F. How, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: Captain Estes has just returned from a scout in the direction of Frogtown. He captured 60 mules, 15 horses, brought in 40 sides of harness leather, and killed 5 of Jordans guerrillas. All quiet through out the entire country. ~-. KLLPATRICK, Brigadier- General. SPECTAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 67. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. * * * * * * * V. To-morrow, the 1st of Augnst, all empty supply trains will be sent to the depot, and all other trains in rear of the Army of the Cum- berland near the railroad, and be parked at a point to be selected by the chief quartermaster. The field hospitals will also be moved to-inor- row to some point in rear of the center of the Army of the Cumber- land. All practicable preparations will be made to withdraw the troops from their present position on the left at dark to-morrow evening, but special care must be observed to avoid doing anything within view of the enemy which might indicate that such movement is contemplated. Further orders relative to the movement will be issued to-morrow. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 65. Before Atlanta, Ga., July 31, 1864. I. In pnrsuance of Special Field Orders, No. 46, (lated headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, July 30, 1864, Brig. Gen. Charles C. Walcutt, U. S. ~o~unteers, is hereby assigned to the command of the Second Brigade, Fourth Division, and will report accordingly to Brig. Gen. William Harrow, commanding Fourth Division. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. John A. Logan: N. N. TOWNES, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 316 316 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Abstract from returns of the Department of the Cumberiand, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas, U. S. Army, commanding, for the month of July, 1864. [Compiled mainly from subordinate returns.] Present for duty. Command. 0 General headquarters Fourth Army Corps (Stanley): Headquarters First Division (Grose) Second Division (Newton) ... Third Division (Wood) Artillery (Bridges) Total Fourth Army Corps. Fourteenth Army Corps (Pal- mer): Headquarters First Division (Johnson) ... - Second Division (Davis) Third Division (Baird) Artillery (Houghtaling) Total Fourteenth Army Corps. Twentieth Army Corps (Will- iams): Headquarters First Division (Knipe) Second Division (Geary) Third Division (Ward) Artillery (Reynolds) Total Twentieth Army Corps.* Cavalry Corps (Elliott): Headquarters First Division (MeCook) - -- - Second Division (Garrard) --- Third Division (Kilpatrick) - Fourth Division (Thorn- burgh) - Detached (Palmer) Total Cavalry Corps Reserve Brigade (Le Favour) - .. - Post of Chattanooga (Stanley). - - Veteran Reserve Corps (Gazzam) Enaineer Troops: Engineer Brigade (Culver) - - Pioueer Briaade (OConnell) - 1st Michigan Engineers (Innes) - Total engineer troops Unassigned Troops~ Infantry Artilleryl Total unassigned 50 184 S 5, 465 S an 550 Pieces of artillery. a 7 7 8 311 5,168 6,782 11,502 248 3,085 4,086 10,179 266 3,847 4,945 10,955 21 826 897 1,124 35 855 11,126 16,717 14,168 35 6 6 6 295 6,050 7,269 12,814 253 5,227 6,129 10,154 101 5,604 6,674 11,561 18 675 718 916 14 875 17, 556 20, 816 35, 651 14 16 70 86 97 270 4,299 5,344 9,604 168 3,070 1,989 8,712 228 4, 145 5, 186 10, 005 21 734 826 1,014 36 705 12,318 15,631 29,432 16 7 7 8 161 2,975 3,916 7,985 4 177 4,087 5,044 9,852 6 181 3,699 4,509 7,161 4 129 2,953 3,537 5,140 8 20 337 428 681 ... - 675 14,051 ~,441 31,027 22 29 791 1, 003 1, 532 92 2,075 2,589 3,761 16 66 17 446 923 1,011 69 1,342 1,794 2,219 1006 43~ , 1,653 1,789 112 2,348 3,447 4,008 98 2,258 2,905 3,277 20 640 695 873 15 118 2,898 Headquarters. In the Field, Ga. Near Atlanta, Ga. Do. Do~ Do. Do. Near Atlanta, Ga. Do. Do. Do. Do. Near Atlanta, Ga. Do. Do. Do. Do. Near Atlanta, Ga. Nashville, Tenn. Lookout Mountain. Cartersville, Ga. Cartersville and Rome, Ga., and Chatta- nooga, Tenn. 3,600 4,150 35 The Fourth Division reported at Nnshville, Tenn. At Bridgeport, Stevenson, Tullahoma, and near Atlanta Page 317 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 Abstract from returns of the Department of the Gumberland, (5c.Continued. Command. Present for duty. District of Tennessee (Rousseau) Headquarters 3 First Brigade, Fourth Divis 75 ion, Twentieth Army Corps (Doolittle). Unassigned regiments, 131 Fourth Division, Twen- tieth Army Corps. 9th Ohio and 20th Indiana 7 Batteries. Nashville (Miller) 89 Fort Donelson (Brott) 1 Gallatin (J. K. Miller) 3 Clarkaville (Smith) 1 Nashville and North West- 87 em Railroad (Gillem) - Nashville and Chattanooga 162 Railroad (Milroy). District of Northern Ala- 174 bama (Granger) - TotalDistr)ctof Tennessee - Grand total 4,261 Grand total according to 4,275 monthly return of the department. 2, 054 3,140 245 1, 940 127 120 98 2, 018 3, 933 4, 220 a, a 3 2, 612 4, 086 272 2, 381 140 134 139 2, 869 4, 668 5,168 Pieces of artillery. Headquarters. 3 Nashville, Tenn. 3, 072 Do. 4,912 313 3, 101 163 150 161 3,117 4, 959 5, 856 14 29 12 48 6 6 6 6 28 12 733 17,895 22,452 25,807 43 124 83, 892 105, 084 83, 957 105, 140 171,097 59 171, 036 32 352 318 Do. Do. Nashville. Tullahorna. Decatur, Ala. Abstract from returns of the Department of the Tennessee, AIaj. Gee. Oliver 0. Howard, U. S. Army, commandinq, for the month of July, 18G4 [Compiled mainly from suhordinate returns.] Command. General headquarters* Fifteenth Army Corps (Logan): Headquartei-s First Division ~Woods) Second Division (let. L. Smith) Third Division (J. F. Smith) - Fourth Division (Harrow)--- Total Fifteenth A r m y Corps. Sixteenth Army Corps: Headquas-ters Left Wing (Dodge): Headquarters Second Division (Corse) - - Fourth Division (Fuller). liT. S. Colored Infantry (Camphell). Cavalry (Spencer) Total Left Wing Present for duty. -a a, a be be Q 24 20 83 a a,a a era be Pieces of artillery. Headquarters. 114 Near Atlanta, Ga. 11 34 47 48 220 3,044 4,101 6,643 10 167 2,454 3,413 6,411 7 255 4, 757 6, 017 7, 610 10 144 3, 198 4, 078 7, 310 10 797 13,487 17,656 28,022 37 4 4 4 10 205 192 42 25 27 4, 770 4, 620 916 427 39 6, 171 5, 534 1,260 531 40 8,954 8, 698 1, 930 756 Neac- Atlanta, Ga. I)o. iDo. Cartersville. Ga. Near Atlanta, Ga. Memphis, Tenn. In the Field, Ga. 10 Near Atlanta, Ga. 5 16 Do. Athens, Ala. In the Field. 474 10, 760 13,537 20,378 Includes detachment Si~sea1 C airy. ~ orps and Fourth Independent Company Ohio Cay CHAP. li. Page 318 [CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. Abstract from returns of the Department of the Tennessee, 4~c.Continued. Present for ~ duty. ~ _________ 94 Command. a ee 0 Sixteenth Army CorpsContd. Right Wing (A. J. Smith): Headquarters First Division (Mower) - - Third Division (Shaw) - - Brigade U. S. Colored Troops (Bouton). Brigade Seventeenth Army Corps~ (Ward). Total Right Wing Total Sixteenth Army Corps. District of West Tennessee (Washhurn): Headquarters District of Memphis (Buck- land). Division Seventeenth Army CorPs (J. B. Moore). Cavalry Division (Grierson) District of Western Ken- tucky (Paine). Total District of West Tennessee. Seventeenth Army Corps (Blair): Headquarters First Division (Dennis) Third Division (Leggett).... Fourth Division (G. A. Smith) Total Seventeenth Army Corps. Disfrict of Vickshurg (Slocum): Headquarters First Division (Dcnnis)t Malthys hrigade Colored troops (Hawkins) - . - Cavalry (Kerr) Detachments U. S. Colored Infantry (Thomas). Defenses of Natchen, Miss. (Brayman). Mississippi Marine Bri~ade (Filet). Total District of Vicks- hurg. Grand total Department of the Tennessee. 2 181 220 91 3, 910 4, 601 2, 525 2 5, 076 5, 765 3,447 9 Pieces of artillery. an ma eoa 2 9, 672 9,376 3, 719 496 11,078 14,290 22,769 974 4 458 57 287 225 1,031 21 79 141 147 21, 838 8,952 1,285 8, 367 4, 909 23, 516 18 2, 152 3,085 3,480 388 8, 735 14 20 6 40 27,831 43,151 5 66 4 12,326 1, 658 11,004 6, 441 31,433 42 2, 672 3,894 4, 248 10, 856 4 14,172 2, 784 14, 527 7,231 38, 718 51 4, 440 7, 063 6, 759 18,313 102 28 4 6 7 130 17 14 23 37 11 11 12 47 1,420 1,938 3,059 12 208 3,901 5,335 6,043 8 82 2,034 2,953 3,314 8 239 373 423 120 3,600 4,782 5,766 . 29 679 895 1,289 505 11,873 16,287 19,906 20 104,146 148,224 3,719 79,469 Grand total according to 3,618 I 75, 683 97, 545 monthly return of the department. 141, 306 135 177 318 Headquarters. Memphis, Tenn. Do. Do. Do. Memphis, Tenn. Do. Do. Do. Padncah, Ky. Before Atlanta, Ga. Morganza, La. Before Atlanta, Ga. Do. Vickshurg, Miss. Do. I)o. Do. Davis Bend, Miss. * Reported in District of West Tennessee with division Seventeenth Army Corps, under Colonel Moore. Reported in Seventeenth Army Corps Page 319 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 Abstract front returns of the Department of the Ohio, M~j. Gen. John Al. Schofield, U. S. Army, commanding, for the month of July, 1864. [Compiled mainly from subordinate returns.] Present for -+~ ~ Pieces of duty. ~ ~ artillery. a a 12 Command. .~ ~ -~ Jleadquartera. a a ct a an 1; a . ~ a biJ ti~ a a Cu nj a a 0 General headquarters 46 46 46 In the Field, Ga. Twenty-third Army Corps (Schofield): Headquarters 14 62 76 77 In the Field, Ga. First Division Second Division (Hascall) 291 5, 141 6, 523 11, 902 Near Atlanta, Ga. Third Division (Cox) 114 6, 943 8, 19~i 13, 688 In the Field, Ga. Fourth Division (Ammen) 161 3, 689 5, 071 7, 331 89 Knoxville, Teun. Fifth Divisiont (Burhridge) 428 8, 414 10, 512 15, 116 16 70 Lexington, Ky. Cavalry Corps~ (Stoneman) 214 4, 490 5, 425 7, 619 In the Field. Ga. Heavy artillery (Gibson) 44 1, 314 1, 587 1, 818 Cleveland, Tean. Engineer troops (McClure) Total Twenty-third Army 1, 466 30, 053 37, 387 57, 55i - 16 159 Corps. Grand total Department of 3, 512 30, 053 37, 433 ~7, 597 16 159 the Ohio. Grand total according to 1,430 29, 755 36,969 56,220 (jj) monthly return of the department. Abstract front returns of the District of Keniucicy (or Fifth Division, Twenty4hird 4rmy Corps), Afaj. Ge . Stephen U. Burbridge, U. S. Army, commanding, for the month of July, 1864. Present for -~ ~ Pieces of duty. ~ artillery. a a a 12 P,a -____ a Command. a a Headquarters. u~ an ~., 0 ~ ~ ~ General headquarters Lexington, Ky. First Division (McLean): Headquarters 3 3 4 Lexin12ton, Ky. First Brigade (llobsoa) 100 1,930 2,200 2,727 2 j Lebanon, Ky. Second Brigade (J. Xl. Brown) 52 972 1,139 1, 492 Lexington, Ky. Third Brigade (Hansoii) 54 1, 459 1, 982 2, 673 8 Mount Sterling, Ky. Fourth Brigade (Iiatliff( 60 1, 216 1, 600 2, 417 8 7 Lexington, Ky. Camp Nelsdn, Ky. (Fry) 76 1, 035 1, 316 1, 501 Pieces of artilleryll 71 32 Total First Division 345 6, 632 8, 240 10, 814 79 49 Second Division (Ewing): Headquarters 2 2 2 Louisville, Ky. First Brigade (Fairleigli) 52 1, 199 1, 475 2, 761 4 27 Louisville, & e., Ky. Second Brigade (Grider) 29 583 795 1, 539 4 26 Bowling Green, Ky. Total Second Division 83 1, 782 2, 272 4, 302 8 53 Total District of Kentucky. 428 8, 414 10, 512 15, 116 87 102 Troops temporarily assigned to Second and Third Divisions, Tweisty-third Army Corps. (District of Kentucky. No return of district found. Only returns of First and ,Secoucl divisions. 4 Compiled from tn-monthly report of July 20. ~ Composed of infantry details, and accounted for with their regiments. I Pieces of artillery not accounted for. Iii fo tiI~cations at Qoviugton, Camp Nelsoii, Franikfort, Paris, an~1 Louisa, Ky. Css~. L. Page 320 [CHAP. L. 320 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. NEAU ATLANTA, GA., Au gust 1, 18G48 p. m. (Received 1.30 p. m. 2d.) M4 Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: Colonel Browniow reports from Marietta that he has just reached there, having escaped from a disaster that overtook General McCooks cavalry expedition at Newnan. He rel)orts the expedition reached the railroad and destroyed more road than the rebels can repair in fifteen days, and burned 500 baggage wagons, including the headqnarters trains of the rebel army, but was overtaken at Newnan by rebel cavalry and infantry, and after a hard fight had to surrender. Colonel Harrison was killed.* I can hardly believe it, as he had 3,000 picked cavalry. Colonel Browniow commanded one of the regiments, and bronght in with him but few men. I have sent for him from Marietta, to inquire more closely into the matter. I have reported General Garrards safe return. General Stoneman used him as a cover to get a good start, so that he will probably reach Macon, and it nay be Andersonville, but will have to run the gauntlet to get back safe. The loss of this cavalry is a serious one to me, but we are pushing the enemy close. Consider- able re-enforceinents of militia and dismounted cavalry have reached Atlanta, under Stephen IJ. Lee. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAU ATLANTA, GA., August 1, 18G11O p. m. (Received 1 p. m. 2d.) Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: Colonel Brownlow is here and reports that General MeCook pro- ceeded according to his orders, ai~d reached the Macoim railroad and de- stroyed twelve miles and a bridge over a branch of White Water, which, he says, is as long as that over Chattahoochee. He also destroyed 500 wagons, among them the headquarters wagons of Hood and Hardee. Unfortunately, instead of completing the circuit by the east and north, he then turned back and commenced breaking up the West Point road, about Newnan, when he was attacked by infantry and cavalry in over- whelniing force, and Browulow says all were killed or captured, except such as cut their way out. Nearly 500 are now back in Marietta, and he thinks more will get in. Colonel Browulows account is not yet sat- isfactory to me, but is the best I can get. YY~. T. SHERMAN, Major-General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 18GL General WEBSTER, JXTashville: I am afraid that General McCooks command of cavalry, 3,000 strong, has been caught and captured at Newnan, after having broken the rail- road and burned 300 wagons of the enemy; so Coloimel Brownlow re- ports by telegraph from Marietta, he having escaped. Order General ~A mmmi~take; he was captured Page 321 C~rAr. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 321 Burbridge, in Kentncky, and General Rousseau, to send me all the cav- alry that can possibly be spared, as the enemy will surely be on our railroad very soon. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 1, 1864. Major-Generals SHERMAN and HOWARD: The firing you have heard was from the skirmishers in Palmers and Williams lines, driving in the rebel pickets. They have been driven into their intrenchments and arc now held there by our sharpshooters. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIpPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. General THOMAS: General Howard reports an unusnal movement of troops out of At- lanta to his right. I am very anxions to hear the substance of Colonel Brownlows story. I am told by General Barrys aide that he saw Col- onel Browniow at your camp. I cannot understand Browniows return if MeCook had surrendered. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 1, 18649 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Colonel Browulow reports that McCook destroyed twelve miles of the railroad, and a bridge over the White Water, longer than the bridge. He also destroyed over 500 wagons, Hoods, Hardees, and other headquarters wagons among them. Unfortu- nately he then turned back on his old route and commenced to destroy the West Point road, when he was attacked on the 29th [3othj, near Kewnan, by infantry and cavalry in overwhelming numbers, sur- rounded, and all who did not cut their way through were either killed or captured. There are nearly 500 now in Marietta, and Brownlow thinks many more will find their way in. The First Wisconsin was cut off near Campbellton, and returned two days ago. I will send you his report iu the morning. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 1, 1864. Major-General TIIOMAS: I wish you to see that some one officer, say the colonel of a small iiifantry regiment, be at the railroad bridge and occupy the rebel in- Lreuchments toward Vinilgs and about Turners Ferry, and collect ill 21 R RVOL XXXYIII~ PT Page 322 [CHAP. L. 322 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. them all the scattered detachments about there, and see that wagons are not grouped outside. Easton should use the bridge as his depot, instead of Vinings, but a picket should be on the hill overlooking Yin- ings. The guards at Marietta are enough. Kilpatricks cavalry should be between Marietta and the railroad bridge, with patrols down about Sweet Water. A regiment of men in the old rebel intrencinnents will be a perfect protection to the bridges and our depot on the other side. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General. IIDQRS. MILITAHY DiVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atia uta, Ga., August 1, 1864. General THOMAS: You had better order General Kilpatrick to march at once down by Marietta to our right tiank, and to gather up the fragments of General McCooks cavalry and put it in shape, for the enemy will surely cross over to that ftank. Also, if you have any regiment of cavalry up at Chattanooga, it could patrol about Resaca till we get more cavalry down. It may be that more of General MeCooks irmen may escape. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, (ilominanding. IIEADQuARTnRS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 1, 1864. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM GROSE, Connnanding First Division: GENERAL: By direction of the department commander, the Fourth Corps, aided by Garrards cavalry, will maintain a force in General Schofields works to-morrow.. General Wood will maintain his present line, holding as many troops as possible ready to move to threatened points. General Grose will extend his left by placing Taylors and Kirbys brigades in the present position of the two right brigades of Hascalls division. General Kimballs brigade will take post in the works on General Groses left. These three brigades should relieve all of ilascalls division. General Garrard will relieve General Cox. The present picket-line of General Schofield will be maintained. The troops will move into position at night-fall to-night. All wagons of General Groses division, excepting necessary ammunition wagons, will be sent within the new line made to-day. General Grose will retain four pieces of artillery in good position. D. ~. STANLEY, Major. General. (Same to Generals Newton and Wood.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 1, 18645 p. m. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM GROSE, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: In relieving General ilascall to-night caution your men to observe silence as much as possible. Our duty to-morrow is risky, but it is directed by General Thomas, and we must depend upon vigi- lauce, bravery of our men, and our strong works. I will be on th Page 323 CRAP. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 323 ground very early in the morning. I think we can make the thing safe, and it may be of vast importance to the movement on the right of the army. Your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 1, 1864. General J. KILPATRICK, Cartersville, Ga.: Proceed with your division to Chattahoochee River, taking the Sand. town road. Should you find any stragglers from First Division, bring them np with you. We hear the division inflicted considerable damage on the enemy, but was aftei ward overpowered by cavalry and infan- try. Please answer. W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier- General and Chief of Cavalry. MARIETTA, GA., Augast 1, 1864. General W. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Col. James P. Brownlow has just conie in here with a very few strag- gling cavalry, entirely demoralized. Browulow is barefooted. lIe reports that our cavalry (lestroyed the West Point and Macon Railroad to such an extent that it will require fifteen days to repair it; that they burnt 500 wagons, including Hoods and ilardees, and nearly all other headquarters trains; that after doing this damage they went to Newnan, Ga., where General MeCooks division was attacked by Kellys and Humes divisions of cavalry and a division of inflintry, and that Me- Cook and his command were nearly all cal)tnred. Harrison killed. J start immediately for camp, and will bring Browulow with me. J. G. PARKHURST, Colonel and Provost.Marshal. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Everything is so wet that I do not think anything can be doiie toward destroying the Decatur road to-day. However, I will try it if you desire. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 1, 1864. (Received 10.50 a. in.) General SCHOFIELD: I guess we will trust to the railroad being enongh broken, but I want some noise on that flank, as I fear that the enemy~s cavalry may all turn on MeCook. We hear from down the river that he broke twelve miles of the Macon road, and burned 300 wagon loads of clothing. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General Page 324 [CHAr. L. 324 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 1, 1864. (Received 1.30 p. in.) General SCHOFIELD: You may fire from ten to fifteen shots from every gun yon have in position into Atlanta that will reach any of its houses. Fire slowly and with deliberation between 4 p. in. and dark. I have inqnired iuto onr reserve supply and the occasion will warrant the expenditure. Thomas and Howard will do the same. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Iliajor- General. VININcfS, August 1, 18649 a. m. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General Department of the Ohio: I have the honor to report that the Ninth Ohio Cavalry, the regiment left by General McCook in charge of the pontoon train, returned here with it the day after he crossed, as ordered to do by General MeCook. The regiment has no orders with regard to watching the river for his return. The First Wisconsin Cavalry, part of General McCooks com- mand, came back the next morning after he crossed the river, and is now in camp somewhere in this vicinity. The Ninth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry and First Wisconsin Cavalry are nnder the command of Colonel Hamilton, Ninth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. The ranking officer, Colonel Hamilton, is not here at present; lie left here an honr ago for head- qnarters of General Sherman. Under these circumstances I have deemed it proper to report the facts and await yonr orders to move the pontoon train down the river to the vicinity of Campbellton, and watch the river for the return of General McCook. General McCook crossed below Canmpbellton, about thirty miles from here. At the rate the train moves it will take two days to move to that point. ISRAEL GAIThARD, Colonel $eventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, August 1, 186412.30 p. in. Major-General SHERMAN: Old Mr. Bowen, living just beyond the right of our line, says we have not yet reached the Saudtown road proper. The Greens Ferry road leads to White Hall, the Sandtowu road and that being the same road from Atlanta to a point this side of White Hall. 0. 0. IIOWAIRD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. General HOWARD: General Schofield has just been here. his troops are drawing out of their old lines, and will move for the right early in the mormiing. When he reaches yon give him the right direction, so that when in position he will be within cannon-range of the railroad. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 325 CUAP. L.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 325 Hicns. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Augast 1, 1861. General HOWARD: You may, between 4 p. in. and dark, fire from ten to fifteen shots from each gun in position that will reach any part of Atlanta. I have inquired into our reserve supply, and it will warrant the expenditure. I will order the shipment by cars of your horses. Who has them iu charge at Chattanooga ~ W. T. SHERMAN, kfajor- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 1, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: General Corse reports an unusual movement of troops and trains to my right since 5 oclock this evening. My scouts report cavalry pickets opposite my right flank. I have not noticed any attempt as yet to turn it. 0.0 HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Maj.Gen.JOHNA. LOGAN, Gomdg. Fifteenth Army Corps: I have requested General Blair to extend his line so as to fill one-half of the interval between the present right of his new line and the left of yours. My impression is that you will find your new line shorter than you anticipate, and hope when you get your batteries in position you will have as much reserve as you had before. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]Jfajor- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Maj. Gen. ~. ~. BLAIR, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Commanding Seventeenth Army Corps: I think when you get your battery into position you can take one- half of the space between the right of your new line and the left of Gen- eral Logans, as you described it to-day. Please extend your line, thin- ning out on your left where your works are so complete, with a view to this. General Logan will be requested to take the remainder of the in- terval. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, ]Jiliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Brig. Gen. M. D. LEGGETT, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: General Smith, commanding Fourth Division, has been directed to extend his line more to the right, taking a portion of th Page 326 32(3 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. fOHAP. L interval between him and Logan. The major-general commanding de- sires you to communicate with him, and when he makes this disposition extend toward him as much as possible, thinning out along your left for that purpose. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROWLAND COX, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. SECOND DIvISIoN SIXTEENTH ARMY CORP~ Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Captain BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General, & xteenth Army Corps, & e.: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report, for the information of the gen- eral commanding the corps, that the artillery fire from this division front resulted in developing a 20-pounder battery immediately adjoin- ing the siege piece that had opened so frequently on our lines during the past three days. Also assured the chief of artillery of the Pict that with the 3-inch ordnance he can shell the center of the city of Atlanta with tolerable accuracy. The rifled 32-pounder did not open. I further report that the officers and men of the battery in my front have noticed an unusual movement of troops and trains toward our right during the greater portion of the afternoon. The skirmish line, with the exception of the advance of one or two posts, is substantially the same. No casualties have been ascertained as resulting from the enemys shells thus far. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. M. CORSE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Jim the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. General JOHN E. SMITH, Gartersville: I fear the enemy has caught one of my raiding parties, under Gen- eral MeCook, at Newnan. You must be on the lookout, as the enemy will surely be on our railroad, but I shall expect them about Marietta or Vinings. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding~ HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, (Jartersville, Ga., August 1, 1864. Licut. Col. PREN METHAM, Gommanding Eightieth Ohio Im~fantry (Through Headquarters Post Allatoona): SIR: On the reception of this order, you will move by dirt road with your command to Resaca, Ga., and on your arrival there report to Col. Green B. Raum, commanding Second Brigade, Third Division, for assignment to duty. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: CARL. L. WHITE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General Page 327 t~nAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIoN. 327 NEAR ATLANTA, GA., Augu8t 1, 18G49 p. m. Major ECKERT: Our cavalry, under General MeCook, reached the Macon road, burned a bridge, anti destroyed railroad tor twelve miles as thoroughly as possible. Burned several trains of wagons500 in allincluding 300 loads of clothing, aud Hoods headquarters train, but failed to get away; was attacked, cut off, defeated, and the greater part captured, including the general. Colonel Browulow, who escaped, says the rail- road cannot be rel)aired under fifteen days. Stoneman not heard from. Schofields command swings from left to right to-day, and to- morrow he and Howard, with divisions of Davis and Ward, will go for East Point. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 48. ) August 1, 1864. I. During the next series of operations General Thomas will be the left, General Howard center, and General Schofield the right army. The two divisions of Generals Davis and Ward will continue to be held in reserve toward the right, and in case the enemy attack that flank, these diviskrns will report to and during the action obey General Scho- fields orders. When not engaged General Thomas will post them so as to cover his communications from danger coming from the southeast. II. Brigadier-General Garrards cavalry will relieve General Schofield on the left and occupy in part his trenches, patrol the roads about De~ catur, and picket toward lioswell. He will report to General Thomas, and be prepared to sally out as cavalry from his trenches, in case of necessity. III. All trains of wagons going to and from the depots of Vinings and Marietta will follow roads converging at the railroad bridge, and never go north of Buck Head or south of Turners. IV. General Thomas will cause a new infantry flank to be prepared on his left, north of the Buck Head road, connecting General Stanleys front lines with the old rebel parapet near Peach Tree Creek. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Gamp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 68. Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. * * * * * * * VI. The troops will withdraw from their present position and move toward the right this evening. The movement will commence at dark and will be made by brigades from the left. Each brigade will remain in position until the preceding one has got into the road and is well under way, so that the troopsmay not be detained in positions exposed to the enemys artillery fire. The movement should be made quietly and in good order, with as little noise or display as possible. The picket-line will remain in its present position until it shall be relieved by other troops, or until notified that our troops are withdrawn and that a new picket-line has been established by General Stanleys corps and General Garrards cavalry, when our picket-line will quietly retire and join th Page 328 [CHAP. I~. 328 rilE ATLANTA OAMPAI(}N. corps. The divisions will march to points selected by Captain Twining, chief engineer, l)ehind the new flank line of the Army of the Cumber- land, and there bivouac for the night. The march will be resumed at 6 a. iii. to-morrow. A detachnient from the Second Division will be posted by Captain Twining at short intervals along the route of to- nights march to keep fires burning to light the road and guide the column. Army headquarters will be to-night near headquarters of the military division. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Mc~or and Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 6. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. The following officers are announced as members of the staff and staff corps of this department and army. They will be obeyed and respected accordingly: Lient. Col. C. H. Howard, Senior aide-dc-camp; Maj. T.W. Osborn,-First New York Artillery, chief of artillery; Capt. H. M. Stin- son, aide-dc-camp; Capt. F. W. Gilbreth, aide-dc-camp; Capt. W. M. Beebe, Forty-first Regiment Ohio Infantry, acting aide-dc-camp; Capt. E. II. Kirlin, volunteer aide-dc-camp. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 7. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., August 1, 1864. Capt. A. Hickenlooper, Fifth Ohio Battery, in addition to his duties as judge-advocate of the department, will act as assistant chief of artil- lery of the army in the field, and will be obeyed and respected accord- ingly. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 2, 1864. General L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: If you have any negro regiments fit for duty I would like to have them in front of Nashville; that would enable me to bring to the front brigades that properly belong to the corps at the front. Could not some general order be made for white recruits to be sent from the States as fast as they are made, to be put iu with our old men ~ Losses in bat- tle and sickness from work and weather is beginning to tell on the strength of my army. If this matter pertains to the Provost-Marshal- General, I would request you to notify him that I would prefer to hav Page 329 CHAP. L.I OORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 329 recruits come to me daily by tens and hundreds than to await them in larger bodies more difficult to trausport. Our cars could bring me 40() daily without overloading. W. T. SHERMAN, 1119 ajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864~ General WEBSTER, Nashville: Too many citizens manage to come to the front. Be even more strin- gent than heretofore. Grant no passes beyond Chattanooga, and only the smallest possible number that far. Surgeons can fill the offices of the Sanitary Commission, and chaplains minister to the wants of the soldiers. If any recruits are coining from the North, I want them for- warded with dispatch by the cars. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NASHVILLE, August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The cavalry horses in this district are less than 3,000 all told. Had I not better order cavalry from Memphis to this line by such route as will avoid the necessity of fighting any force of the enemy before reach- ing us- and also demonstrate from Memphis by such other troops as may be available. J. D. WEBSTER, Brigadier- General. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General WEBSTER, Nashville: Dont call for any cavalry from Memphis. General A. J. Smith has his orders to watch Forrest, and if he comes to Tennessee to P)llow him to Decatur. He will want all his cavalry. Only collect the scattered detachments of cavalry and order more horses to be purchased to re- mount the dismounted cavalry in General Thomas department at Columbia and elsewhere. A good many of General McCooks cavalry are coining 1n by squads to Marietta. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NAshVILLE, August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Can pick up from the corrals and teams here about 1,200 horses, be- sides the 3,000 now in use, mentioned in telegraph this forenoon. Will send 600 to Decatur at once to remount a regiment there. Will use the others to mount cavalry here. Will push them forward as fast as pos- sible. J. D. WEBSTER, Brigadier- General Page 330 THl~ ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 330 [CHAP. L HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mi~~issippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Augu8t 2, 1864. General ThOMAs: I am quite unwell to-day. General Schofield is marching for and will take up position ou the right. I think well of General Stanleys keep- ing a mere line of display where General Schofield was for a few days, and if you can occupy General Palmers place in the main line by with- drawing General Wards division, it would give us General Palmers corps as a working force in reserve on the right. As soon as General Scho- field selects his right flank we must assume the offensive against the railroad between White Hall and East Point. I have no doubt that General McCook damaged the Southern road and that provisions and ammunition will be short in the rebel camp. But we must look to our own depots. Please do all that is possible to organize a force of cavalry about Marietta, composed of General Kilpatricks division and such of General McCooks as have returned. Also have the old rebel lines west of Chattahoochge lightly guarded to cover our bridges. Order all bridges above Paces, except that at iRoswell, to be destroyed. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Angu8t 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Yours received. Orders have been given to Kilpatrick to move down to Marietta and guard the road from the river to that place. A regi- ment has been sent to occupy the old rebel works across the river toward Vinings and at Turners Ferry. The First Wisconsin Cav~ aIry has been ordered down the river to pick up the scattered men of Mc- Cooks command. The remaining four guns of the battery McCook had with him have been put in the works near the railroad bridge, and Major Purdy with the 280 men with which lie returned, and all others lie can collect, ordered to the same place. GEO. H. THOMAS. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General THOMAS: General Schofield is in position on General Howards right and ex- tends one mile and a half in a south course, his right beilig one and one-half southeast of lot 213. He faces a branch of Utoy Creek, and General Howard thinks the East Point and Atlanta road lies on the ridge opposite, which the enemy holds in force. General Schofield represents Utoy Creek opposite his right as about the size of Olleys Creek, and thinks its passage will be seriously resisted. Better get General Palm- ers corps ready and we must break through somewhere. The rest of our line should make dashes and secure lodgments close up under the main works. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 331 CHAP. t.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.1IJNION. 331 SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 2, 1864. General STANLEY: Order just received from Washington assigns you to command of the Fourth Corps. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. STANLEYS HEADQUARTERS, August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Telegram received. Much obliged to you. Will do my best to merit the confidence. Deserter just in says order read last night to rebel army says they captured 500 of McCooks command and dispersed the rest. ilardee has resigned. Cleburne commands his corps. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Brigadier-General GROSE, First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: You will hold the line you now occupy until otherwise ordered. The contemplated movement of the troops of this corps to our new and interior line will not be made perhaps for some days. Move all of your wagons within said interior line of works, except headquar- ters trains, if it be necessary that they should be kept outside. Do not leave your commissary train outside of the same longer than may be necessary to issue to the troops. By order of Major-General Stanley: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Generals Newton and Wood.) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Maj. Gem J. M. PALMER Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: General Wards division, of the Twentieth Corps, has been ordered to return from its present position, and occupy that portion of our lines now held by the Fourteenth Army Corps, with the exception of one brigade, which you will be requested to leave in position on your present right. When your two divisions, less the one brigade, are drawn out of the line, you will order them, also General Davis division, massed in rear of General Schofields right flank. I am, general, yery respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 332 ~332 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. T. WARD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: In compliance with inclosed order the general command- ing the corps directs that you move your division this afternoon, camp- ing it for the night in rear of the position now occupied by the Fourteenth Corps, and be in readiness to relieve by daylight to-morrow morning all of the Fourteenth Corps now in the front line, except one brigade (the extreme right of the Fourteenth Corps). I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. A. S. WILLIAMS, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that General Wards division of your corps be ordered to return from its present po- sition neaP our right and be placed in the line as arranged between you and the ma,jor-geueral commanding, relieving all but one brigade of the Fourteenth Corps. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General SLocuiw, Vieksburg: You are assigned to command the Twentieth Corps. Turn over your command to the officer next in rank, and come and command your corps in the held. I will extend General Washburns district over Yicksburg and Natchez, so that the river can be controlled by one mind. Come via Cairo and Nashville. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General ROBERT S. GRANGER, Decatur, Ala.: If that brigade of the Sixteenth Corps commanded by Colonel Howe can possibly be spared, I want it sent to the front by the cars. Our losses have been heavy and we want that brigade more than you can possibly do. I have asked General Lorenzo Thomas to send you some negro regiments, which will do to hold block-houses and intrenched places. General A. J. Smith will watch Forrest, and if he n~ves towar Page 333 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 333 Tennessee General Smith will come to Decatur. Stephen D. Lee ye- enforced General Hood in Atlanta with troops bronght from Mississippi. As long as General Smith hovers between Memphis and Forrest, the latter will hardly venture across the Tennessee River. Answer by tele- graph. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NASHVILLE, TENN., August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: After relieving brigade of Sixteenth Army Corps there will be but one regiment of infantry, 600 strong, to garrison Decatur. The works are very extensive and can only be held effectually by present garrison. If, however, we liave nothing to apprehend from F~orrest we can with one regiment of infantry and our cavalry hold it against all the force Roddey can bring. I must say I feel a little apprehension. A good portion of Forrests force may slip by Smith, and that with Roddeys command make a dash on our road and Decatur. This you will see, by communications captured from Patterson and forwarded to General Thomas, they had in contemplation before Smiths advance called them into Mississippi. I will order the brigade to be prepared to leave as soon as transportation can be furnished. I have just finished inspection of the troops and defenses the entire length of the road and find them in pretty good condition. R. S. GRANGER, Brigadier- General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 2, 1864. (Received 1.10 p. in.) General SCHOFIELD: Describe to me your new position. I have just sent a telegraph operator on to your old headquarters, so that we will have telegraphic communication from right to left. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OP THE OHIO, August 2, 18641.45 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have reconnoitered to the point reached by Morgans division on his reconnaissance the other day, which is on the prolongation of howards new line and less than a mile from his right. I will put my troops in there and connect with Howard. The position faces a branch of Utoy Creek and is a mile south of Wilsons house, now occupied by Bowen. My infaiitry is not up. When I get it in position I will reconnoiter far- ther and give you a more accurate description. The enemys intrench- ments are visible in front of Howards right, across the creek. I have not yet been able to determine how far they extend, but will try to do ~o when my troops get up. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General Page 334 334 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: From all that I can see, I judge that the enemys infantry line bends back opposite my left center and runs from that point nearly south be- hind a small branch of the creek in front of Howard and myself. The force in front of my right appears to be cavalry. To seriously threaten the enemys flank and railroad communication it will be necessary to cross the creek in front of my right and reach the Sandtown road, which is about a mile beyond the creek. If this move can be made with a sufficiently large force the result must be very decisive. Please in- form me if you desire me to push forward to-morrow, and also whether Morgans and Wards divisions will be absolutely under my command, or only to be called upon when the necessity arises. At present they are in easy supporting distance, but if I move they should move with me. Respectfully, ~. M. SCIIOFIIELI), ]Jliajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I would like to have you to prepare a crossing-place over the Utoy. General Davis division will remain to-morrow, amid during the day, if all is quiet, Wards will return to occupy the line miow held by Palmers corps, and all of Palmers corps will come to l)avis amid advance with yours, or even beyond you, as an attacking column. I will be over to- morrow. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Will you have your command in position and intrenched by morn- ing ~ How far do you reckon you are off from the railroad? W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: My troops are in position, and will be well intrenched to-night. Ihave prolonged Howards new line along the branch of Utoy Creek about a mile and a half and have a good flank. I think no point of mny line is nearer the railroad than Howards right, which I estimate to be betweemi one mile and a quarter and one mile and three-quarters. My right is not as far forward as I hoped it would be, but I have gone as far as it was possible to-day. To Cross the creek will be a days work, and I recko Page 335 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 335 must be done in force. The situation seems very similar to that at Olleys Creek, but I presume a single division will not be permitted to do what one did there. What means the unusual silence along the lines to-day~ iRespectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]Ifujor- General. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. (Received 8.45 p. in.) General SCHOFIELD: Your dispatch is received. I cannot account for the silence to-day, unless the enemy awaits our initiative. W. T. SHERMAN, Jfajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 2, 1861. Major-Ge~eral SHERMAN: Our lines face a branch of Utoy. This branch seems to be nearly })arallel with the East Point and Atlanta wagon road. Schofields right is about one mile and a half to the southeast of lot 21~3. I be- lieve he has one division in positioii, probably well intrenched, before this time. The branch of the Utoy is said to be fordable. The general will certainly cross the creek if it is possible to do so, an(l if the rebel works change direction where I think they do, lie can cross without diffi- culty. His right is on a high ridge, that should be intrenched to do. bouch from. 0. 0. HOWARD, ]JThjor- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General HOWARD: General Ransom is assigned to you. lIe is an excellent division coin- mander. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE TENNESSEE, August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I assisted General Schofield in reconnoitering the ground on my right flank this a. in., and at 3 p. m. moved forward my command to occupy my new line. General Schofield extends that line over a mile to the southwest. We both face the western branch of Utoy Creek. The rebel works are parallel with mine on the other side of that creek and in plain view and apparently extend about half a mile beyond my right 4~nli, where they ~ecm to refuse, I could see no woi~s ~u front of Ge Page 336 336 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. eral Schofields right. The rebel skirmishers and mine are 110W close together, and we have a battery constructed from which I think we may reach the railroad, though it is not in sight. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. General HOwARD: If yours and General Schofields lines run southwest and face Utoy Creek, I fear we are rather leaving than nearing the railroad. Is Utoy Creek easily passed? Will General Schofield have his men in position and covered by morning? W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Au gust 2, 1864. General HOWARD: General Schofield has started his troops and himself. You will prob- ably understand the object of extending the right a~s much as any one, and I beg you will aid General Schofield in getting a good position. General Thomas will see about putting General Wards division back, and having all of General Palmers corps as a right reserve. We should have the Sandtown road, and our right should, if possible, be within cannon-range of the railroad. I am quite unwell to-day. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 2, 1864. General SHERMAN: GENERAL: I am very sorry to hear that you are ill. I will meet General Schofield and do everything in my power to facilitate oper- ations. Hood may possibly attempt a blow on him, but with Palmers and this army close at hand he will be likely to get badly whipped. 0. 0. HOWARD, ]Jlajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 2, 1864. General SHERMAN: My signal officer reports as follows: I see something more than 100 men with bundles, w itlioid arms, moving into At- lanta under guard. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General Page 337 ChAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 337 IIDQRS. MILITARY IDIFISION OF THE MISSiSsIPpI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Augnst 2, 1864. COMMANDING OFFICER AT MARIETTA: Report to me direct any men of General MeCooks got in and also if General Kilpatrick has come down with his cavalry from 6artersville. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. MARIETTA, August 2, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Nothing here in regard to Kilpatricks command. From McCooks conunand the First Wisconsin Cavalry caine here and have gone to near Campbellton under orders of General Elliott; strength not re- ported. There are here 230 men of McCooks command, with four pieces of artillery, abont to move, nnder General Elliotts orders, to railroad bridge at Chattahoochee River. Captain McCormick, of Gen- eral Elliotts staff, is here looking after and reorganizing them. SAML. ROSS, Colonel Twentieth Connecticut, Commanding Post. MARIETTA, August 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN: Respectfully report my arrival here with 95 men of my command, having been in Brigadier-General MeCooks expedition with 170. In the engagement near Newnan was cut off from the main body, losing the difference in men. The command, horses and men, is in exhansted condition. OWEN STAR Major Second Kentucky Cavalry, Commanding Regiment. BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., August 2, 18649.30 }. m, Maj. T. T. ECKERT: To-day has been used in getting troops into position to attack. Corps are now in line from left to right in this order: Twentieth, ~ourth, Sixteenth, Seventeenth, Fifteenth, and Twenty-third, with Fourteenth in reserve in rear of Twenty-third. Cant say when the word will be given to attack, but expect it to-morrow. No further news from cav- alry expedition. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRs. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., ht the Field near Atlanta Ga No.49. ) August 2, 1864. I. Brig. Gen. T. E. G. Ransom U suance of Special Orders No. 34~ ~ Volunteers, having in pur- paragraph IV, dated headquarters Armies of the United States, June 12,1864, reported for duty, is hereby assigned to duty with the Department and Army of the Tennessee, and will report in person to Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard, commanding. * * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc- Camp. 22 R RYOL XXXVIII, PT Page 338 ICHAP, L. 338 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ( * HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, Xear Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. No 53. * III. Brig. Gen. T. E. G. IRansom, U. S. Volunteers, having reported to these headquarters for duty in compliance with extract V, Special Field Orders, No. 86, Department and Army of the Tennessee, is hereby assigned to the command of the Fourth Division, Sixteenth Army Corps. Brig. Gen. J. W. Fuller will assume command of the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Sixteenth Army Corps. * * * * * * By order of Maj. Gen. G. 1\1. Dodge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY Coups, No. 9. Before Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. I. Capt. E. N. Joel, assistant quartermaster, having reported to these headquarters for duty, is announced as acting chief quartermaster of the corps. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. II. Capt. J. W. Barlow, U. S. Ar my, is announced as chief engineer on the staff of the major-general commanding. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of 1\iaj. Gen. Frank P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IJDQRS. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 10. Before Atlanta, Ga., August 2, 1864. In order to improve the efficiency of the engineer department of this corps, flw following directions will be strictly observed by all officers detailed upon engineering duty: 1. Whenever an engineer officer of a division leaves the division the commanding officer will immediately assign some one to perform his duties until an officer can be procured to take his place. 2. Division engineers will, without fail, report daily to the chief engi- neer of the corps any change which may take place in the position of his division, accompanying such report by a sketch a~ accurate as cir- cumstances will permit. He will also endeavor to gain inftrmation of the nature of the country, roads, & c., in the vicinity of the division, particularly toward the front, and will cause a detail of the pioneer corps to invariably prepare a good road parallel to the front, and cov- ered as much as possible from the enemys fire. He will keep an official journal of all engineer operations performed by the division, which must be forwarded to the chief engineer at these headquarters by noon every Saturday, instead of every ten days, as was previously required. In these reports the movements of the division must be stated, also the names of all officers and enlisted men on engineer duty, and what they are doing. The division engineer should pay the greatest attention to the laying out of field-works, as the direction of a very small portion o Page 339 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 339 the line may decidedly affect the issue of an attack upon it, and in the construction of such work the pioneer corps will observe and obey the instructions given by the division engineer. 3. Division commanders will at once fill up the pioneer corps to the maximum in accordance with General Orders, No. 47, headquarters Department of the Tennessee, July 24, 1863, and have the corps con- stantly supplied with the number of tools provi(led by sai(1 order. The commanders of pioneer corps will not omit to make their weekly returns of tools, & c., to these headquarters by noon every Saturday, and their monthly returns will also be promptly forwarded. It is hoped that the division commanders and pioneer officers will do everything in their power to further the efficiency of the engineer de- partinent of the corps, which can only be done by an earnest co-working of all who are iiiterested in its advancement. By order of Maj. Gen. Frank P. Blair: A. J. ALEXANDER, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY PoINT, August 3, 1864. General HALLECK, (Received 6.30 a. m. 4th.) (ihief of & aff: Richmond Dispatch of to-day contains the following: MACON, Augumt 1, 18646 p. m. Oni- cavalry under General Iverson attacked the enemy yesterday near Clinton. The Yankees, commanded by General Stoneman, were routed, and Stoneman, 25 offi- cers, and about 500 prisoners, with 2 pieces of artillery, surrendered, and have just reached the city. The rest of the Yankee force is scattered and tlying toward Eatonton. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 3, 1864 f) p. mu. 1\Iaj. Gems. H. W. HALLECIi, (Received 11 i~. mu. 4th.) Washington, 1). C.: We have had pretty lively times to-day generally, closing in, taking somne 200 or 300 prisoners. lTnder the pressure I got two divisions across the head of Utoy Creek, well towardi the railmoa(i, and to-morrow will push still more on that flank. General MeCook, after all, has got iii, bringimig 1,200 of his men. lie reports that on July 29 he broke the West Point road at Palmetto, and then crossed over to the Macoil roa(l, at Lovejoys, where he took up 2 miles of track burn ed 2 trains 100 bales of cotton, and 5 niiles of telegraph. He fell upon the rebel wagon train and burned over 500 wagons and killed 800 mules. He captured 72 officers and 350 men, but his progress eastward and north, according to the plan, was stopped by a supeAor fbrce of cavalry and line turmied toward Newn an, where he was completely surrounded. He ordered two of his small brigades to niake their way to the Chatta- hoochee while he held the enemy. About 500 of them are in, but the balance, about 1,000, are doubtless captured or killed. He then with 1,200 men charged through in column, riding down Ross (Texas) bri- gade and capturing Ross, the commander; but he had to drop all pri Page 340 [CHAP. L. 340 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. oners and ineumbrances to save his command. He crossed the Chatta- hoochee below Franklin and np by Dallas to Marietta. The plan was for huiu to meet General Stoneman at Lovejoys, but he did not meet him. Prisoners report that Yankee cavalry were shelling Macon on the 1st instant, so I think General Stoneman has a chance of rescuing those prisoners. It was a bold and rash adventure, but I sanctioned it, and hoped for its success from its very rashness. I think that all Georgia is now in my front, and he may meet but little opposition and succeed in releasing those prisoners. The difficulty will then coin- mence for them to reach me. My lines are very strong, and cover well all our bridges across Chattahoochee. I will use my cavalry here- after to cover the railroad, and use infantry and artillery against At- lanta. A large part of Hoods army is militia, that cannot be trusted in the open field, and I think we have crippled the three fighting corps now commanded by Stewart, Stephen I). Lee, and Hardee. It is even whispered that Hardee has resigned; but this is as yet but the story of deserters. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 3, 186411.30 p. m. (Received 11 p. m. 4th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: In order to make my campaign conclusive I shoald have a large cavalry force. We find great difficulty in procuring horses. I under- stand there are 2,000 at Saint Louis. Can I not have them l Recruits also should be sent to Nashville, and sent forward daily, and distributed as they come. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. General WEBSTER, Nashville: General MeCook is safe. He is in with 1,200 of his command. About ~500 had got into Marietta before him. Still I will need cavalry. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NASHVILLE, August 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Lewis Merrill, chief of Cavalry Bureau at Saint Louis, telegraphs me he has 2,000 cavalry horses on hand, and will send them to me if they will allow it at Washington. This in reply to a telegram from me. They might give you 1,000 of these animals if you request it, if not all. They will deny me. I have asked too often. J. L. DONALDSON, Senior and Supervising Quartermaster Page 341 CHAP. LI HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 8, 1864. General THOMAS: I am on the point of starting to the right. Will move headquarters to the neighborhood of General Howard. Have you any reports from the front ~ There seems an unusual quiet prevailing. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, August 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I have had no report from the front this morning. I am just leaving to ride along the line, and if I hear anything will at once inform you. GEO. H. THOMAS Major- General, Commanding. Per H. S. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, General In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. I am just in from the right. General Schofield has one division across Utoy, and General Baird was crossing at 6 p. in.; pretty severe skirmish but no battle. I came by General Logans, who has been fighting with artillery and picket-lines all day. He carried a line and took SO prisoners. Enemy retook the pits, but our skirmishers got in safe. General Logan again took them, with 150 prisoners, his loss very small. He was still hammering away when I left him along his line, and this relieved the pressnre on Generals Schofield and Baird. I think by morning he will have a lodgment across Utoy, on or very near the big Sandtown road, that will seriously threaten the railroad. I have heard of General McCook and am well pleased. I heard very heavy firing up your way. Tell me all about it. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The firing you heard was Stanley making a demonstration with his skirmish line. The enemys skirmishers replied briskly, wounding per- haps 50 of our men. We captured about that number of rebels. Sutermeister is firing upon the town to-night. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: McCook is all right, near Dallas, with 1,200 men. I send his re- port to yon.* Will have him reorganize to-morrow at the railroad bridge. ~Sce Part II, p. 761 Page 342 ~42 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. Have just returned from the extreme left. We keep up a pretty good display, and I think we can make the rebels believe we occupy the whole line. Have directed Stanley to advance his skirmish line. No reports from liim yet. We are well up to the rebel works. Williams will im- prove his hue to-morrow. I will visit the railroad bridge to-morrow, and then go to the right, unless you wish me to remain here. GEG. II. ThOMAS, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. General THOMAS: I would rather have you defer your visit to the railroad bridge an- other Jay. I think that to-morrow we can force the rebels to attack our right or be in a tight place. I will be there, and want you to take advantage of any change. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. ScHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, August 3, 1864. (Received 12.20 l~- in.) Generals THOMAS and STANLEY: I have the dispatch showing the enemy moving to meet ours on this flank. This p. m. Hascalls division, of Schofield, and one of Palmers will cross Utoy Creek to the east, and will so threaten the railroad that I think the enemy will so far weaken the defenses of Atlanta that a bold dash might make a lodgment about Woods front ;at all events make the attempt with a strong line of skirmishers. Howard has suc- cessfully advanced his line, takiug the ellemys pits and his skirmishers. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General. THOMAS hEADQUARTERS, August 3, 18642 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have been out to the Augusta railroad to-day. The rebels are still there, but Iwill have them felt this p. m. to ascertain their strength. GEO. TI. THOMAS, Major. General. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, August 3, 1864. (Received 11 a. in.) Major-General STANLEY, Commanding Fourth Corps: Our movements td-day on the extreme right will surely draw the en- emy to East Point. lie may possibly attack on our left, but I think not. We should, however, feel every approachable point of Atlanta and make him develop his force. The extreme silence and absence of artillery, when he must see troops moving at Palmers front, are suspi- cions. If you want to communicate with me during the day, I will be at or near Schofields. I would like any symptoms, however trivial, r Page 343 CHAP. U CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 343 ported. I would like to have the skirmishers about Woods and New- tons front to push a reconnaissance as far forward as is possible, and to use some considerable artillery about 4 p. m. W T. SHERMAN, ijfajor- General, Commanding. (Same to General Thomas.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS August 3, 18648.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have the honor to report, in answer to your inquiry, that I carried the picket-line on the whole corps front, excepting Gibsons [brigade], of Woods division. Newtons men went within 100 yards of the star fort. The rebels opened from at least twenty pieces. The rebels rallied and drove back Hazens skirmishers. We took about 40 prison- ers. Three of Cheathams brigades are certainly in our front. They say Cleburne is on the rebel right. We could see troops move in and deploy in the works during the light. I send through General Thomas a Chattanooga Rebel paper of the 3d of August. Stoneman was at Clinton on the 1st. He has destroyed Oconee bridge, burned cars, & c., on Central Railroad. I had 30 or 40 killed and wounded to-day. My belief is that the rebel force is quite strong on this front yet. Gibson met a destructive fire of musketry and canister. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CoRPS, August 3,18648.30 a. in. Brigadier-General WIIIPPLE, Chief of Staff: I think of pushing a reconnais5ance out from the left of my line, and of opening artillery upon the city. I may attack the rebel picket-line. Would like the opinion of General Thomas. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. AUGUST 3, 1864. General STANLEY, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: The general commanding directs that you organize a strong skirmish line and make a bold dash against the enemy, capturing their picket- line at any rate. By command of Major-General Thomas: HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY Coiws, Year Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to report the following as the result of our operations this afternoon: At 4.30 p. m. I advanced the re-enforced skirmish lines of Groses, Woods, and Newtons divisions. I carried the rebel picket-lines on th Page 344 ~44 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L whole corps front excepting in front of Gibsons brigade, of Woods di- vision. Gibson met a destructive fire of mnsketry and canister. New- tons men went within 100 yards of the star fort. The rebels opened npon us at least twenty pieces of artillery. After ilazen had taken the enemys skirmish rifle-pits, about three-qnarters of a mile from onr works and abont 100 yards from the enemys works, the rebels sallied out and drove his skirmishers back. We have taken abont 40 prison- ers. Three of Cheathams brigades are in our front. The prisoners re- i)ort that Clebnrnes division is on the rebel right. We could see troops move in and occnpy the works dnring the fight. We lost about 30 killed and wonnded. My belief is that the rebel force is qnite strong in my front yet. The rebels right, as pointed out by the deserter you sent to me, rests on the Augusta railroad, with their right thrown back. Th S. STANLEY, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. (Forwarded to General Sherman by General Thomas.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 18642.30 p. m. Brigadier.G-eneral GROSE, Commanding First Division, Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to say that in accord- ance with instructions received from department headquarters, General Woods troops will make a dash at about 4.30 this p. in., for the purpose of trying to capture or drive in the enemys skirmish line. If a favor- able point is discovered or opportunity is offered in yoar front, your troops will make a like attempt. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. FULLET~TON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Verbal orders similar to the above given to Generals Newton and Wood.) HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 3, 1864. General WNGNER, Commanding Second Brigade: GENERAL: You will immediately re-enforce your skirmish line with one regiment as support. You will advance your skirmish line at 4.30 p. in. ~)recisely, taking the enemys skirmish pits; when this is done part of your supports will continue to occupy the present skirmish pits. Put a good officer in command. Draw in all your working parties and have your line fully manned. Get your time at these headquarters. You have no time to lose. By order of Brigadier-General Newton: J. S. RANSOM, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 345 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, EW.UNION. 345 HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 3, 1864. (Received 10.20 a. in.) Major-General SHERMAN: One of our signal officers reports that the rebels are leaving the front of our left and are moving off to their left; are passing through At- lanta. He says no artillery with them. General Stanley is in front; will send your dispatch to him at once. He has gone to push a recon- naissance from Groses front. J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General STANLEYS HEADQUARTERS, Capt. L. M. DAYTON, August 3, 18641.20 p. m. Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., ffdqrs. 1~fil. Div. of the Mississippi: The troops reported as leaving my front by the signal officers were replaced by other rebel troops. About one small brigade moved west through Atlanta. We can yet see their artillery in position. D. S. STANLEY, ]Jlajor- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 3, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: We carried the rebel skirmish rifle-pits along our entire front. Newton reports that he carried three lines, and Gibsons brigade the same. Skirmishers of Hazens and Kneflers brigades driven back. The enemy showed quite strong force. Opened at least twenty pieces artillery. We have lost 30 men. Have taken about 40 prisoners. Cheathams division in front of Wood and Newton. Prisoners report Cleburnes division on right. J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. General STANLEY: General Hascall is across Utoy Creek and General Baird is passing. Watch well the effect on the extreme left, and at whatever points sig- nal officers can see in Atlanta. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. (Received 10.15 a. in.) Maj. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, (iommandinq Fourth Army Gorps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you strip the south end of the bridge at Powers Ferry, and move the guard down to Paces Ferry and guard the bridge at that point. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 346 846 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN~ [CHAP. IL. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CLTMBERLAND, Near Atlanta, August 3, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Commanding Twentieth Corps: I send you below a copy of telegram* just received at these head- quarters. General Thomas has gone to some point on the lines. I shall forward this to him at once, and you will please act on it so far as re- lates to your corps, unless otherwise ordered by him. Very respectfully, HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant- General. A copy has been sent to General Stanley. H. S. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. T. WARD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you commence the Construction of breast-works on the new line now being located by Lieu- tenant Ludlow, engineer of the corps, at once, if it is possible to work there in the daylight without drawimig a fire from the enemy. If you find it impracticable to work at them during the daytime lie desires that you will put a strong force at work to-night, as lie desires that they may be finished and occupied by morning. Lieutenant Ludlow is now on the line and will give you such information as you may need. Major Reynolds, chief of artillery, will select the position for the artillery, and time general wishes that the earth-works at the points lie selects may be constructed with special reference to the protection of the artillery. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMI3ERLAND, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. MCCooR, Commanding First Cavalry Division, Marietta, Ga.: The general commanding directs that you move with your command to the railroad bridge north of the Chattahoochee. lie congratulates you and your command on your success during the late rai(l. DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 3, 1864. General J. KILPATRICK, Cartersville, or en route to Marietta, Ga.: I have reports that 500 to 1,000 rebels crossed Chattahoochee at Camnpbellton last night and moved in direction of Burmit Hickory. Look out for them on railroad. W. L. ELLIOTT, Brigadier- General and Chief of Cavalry. See Nierman to Tlioma~ and Stanley, p. 342 Page 347 CRAP. Li CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 347 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field near Atlanta General GRAN~ER, August 3, 1864. Decatur: I want that brigade. Stephen ID. Lee is here from Mississippi with 3,500 cavalry, dismounted. Deserters say also that Forrest is here, but, if so, olily for consultation. Get General Loreuzo Thomas to give you some negro regiments to hold the railroad stations and bring forward any troops you can get. Consult General Rousseau. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, OFFICE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following for your informa- tion: J. M. Glass, scout, left the town of Atlanta this morning about 9 oclock; says that Roddey and ilumes (or Holmes) have arrived with re-enforcements, said to number 10,000 men, principally dismounted cav- alry. Three thousand militia arrived last night from below; saw this force marching through town this morning. One battalion, commanded by Yonngblood, from Columbus, arrived about one week ago. Trains ap- pear to be running regularly to and from Macon. Trains came in on that road last night and this morning. About 600 prisoners were sent off yesterday by railroad to Macon. Generals Bragg and Johnston are in the city; did not hear anything said about Johnston resuming the command; understood they had nine or ten 64-pounders in position; think tIme principal strength of time enemy is on their left and left center. Colonel Hill, provost-marshal-general, being intoxicated, con](l not get a pass to enable him (Glass) to visit the lines. Time enemny seems to be putting every man into the ranks they can get hold of Colommel Hill told me they were mounting some new 32-pounder Parrotts in front; did not learn at what part of the hue, but understood they were placed in tlme forts. The enemy say tlmey have captured Gemieral Stoneman and 500 of his command, a large portion of the numnber officers. Stone- man is said to have arrived imi front of Macon and commenced shelling the town. The convalescents ammd militia opposed him, and kept himmi at bay until General Wheelers cavalry got in his ream~. Stoneman fought his way back fifteen miles before he was taken. That part of his command not killed or captured is reported scattered, with cavalry after them. This informnation is froum a telegram received by General Hood from Macon. McCook destroyed about one mile and a half of time railroad between Jonesborough and Griffin. The road is repaired, however, and trains are running as before. Glass says he came out on south side of Augusta railroad and passed thromugh the works on our left thrown up by General McPherson. Says Martins division of cay- - airy is about half way between Atlanta and Decatur, and that there is only a small force opposite our left, composed of militia and a few cav- alry. Saw one fort in front of ~ old works; saw four guns in it12 or 20 pounders. There is no forage imm the city whatever. Stock is being fed on small patches of green corn in and around the town. They appear to have plenty of subsistence on hand for presen Page 348 348 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. t. use; could not learn whether tliey had any supply on liand. Since Walkers death, his old division has been cut up and put into Cleburnes and Cheathams divisions. General Hoods headquarters is in White Hall street, near liodgers tannery. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ED. C. DENIG, As8istant Adjutant.General. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, Augwst 3, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: We are moving to-day, and the general had just ridden off for your flank as yours came. Last from McCook is from deserter, who says order was read stating capture of 500 of his men, and rest killed and dispersed by Wheeler. Some are still reaching our lines. Hardee has resigned, by disagreement with Hood. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de. Camp. - HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 3, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Ilascall and Baird are in position, and intrenched. The enemys ar- tillery fire was quite heavy just before dark, and caused some loss. We will have batteries in position to respond fully in the morning. Ilascall captured 49 prisoners from the enemys skirmish line during his advance. His loss is only about 20 killed and wounded J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, August 3, 18647 a. m. Colonel BARTER, Commanding Fourth Brigade: You will move your remaining two regiments immediately to Colonel Casenients left, and put them in line between him and Colonel Crit- tenden. I have just learned that there is a gap there unfilled. Please use haste in moving, as the gap must not be left unfilled a moment longer than absolutely necessary. When your troops are ready to start report in person to me in advance and I will give more particular instructions. J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CAMP OF SEVENTH OHIO VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, August 3 ~4 ], 1864. Maj. J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of the Ohio: - MAJOR: I have the honor to report that I made a scout on the road to Sandtown as far as the bridge over Utoy Creek, seven miles from See Wherry to ~arrarJ, August 4, p. 362 Page 349 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 this point, and made a scout on the road that crosses Utoy Creek at Dollars Mill. This last road leaves the main road about five miles from here. There has not been for some days any rebel force across Utoy Creek (on this side). The scouts made to-day have crossed Utoy Creek at three places and nothing has been met with but six or seven rebel cavalrymen that were l)art of a scout of about twenty-five, probably, that went back over the creek at Dollars Mill. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, IS1IAEL GAItRAIID, Colonel Seventh Ohio Volunteer U~valry. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 3, 18648.30 p. m. Major ECKERT: No fight yet. light pushed across Utoy Creek toward railroad near East Point, without finding anything but skirmish line, which retired upon being pressed. MeCook has turned up near Dallas, having cut his way through the enemy with 1,200 men. Only 1,000 men of his command now missing, under General Croxton, and they may be safe. No news from Stonenian except from rebels, who say Wheeler caught and thrashed him fifteen miles from Macon after he had shelled that town. - J. C. VAN DUZER. - SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ) HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT No. 212. Near OF THE CUMBERLAND, Atlanta, ()a., August 3, 1864. * * - * -- * * VJI. Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley, U. S. Volunteers, having been assigned by the President of the United States to the command of the Fourth Army Corps, Brig. Geur Nathan Kimball, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the command of the First Division of that corps. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. CITY POINT, VA., August 4, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: ltichmond Dispatch to-day [yesterday] contains following: MACON, August 1. Our cavalry under General Iverson attacked the enemy yesterday near Clinton. The Yankees, commanded by General Stoneman, were ronted, and about 500 prisoners, with 2 pieces of artillery, surrendered, and have just reached the city. The rest of the Yankee force is scattered and dying toward Eatonton. U. S. GIANT, Lieutenant-General Page 350 350 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L CITY POINT, VA., August 4, 18G41O a. m~ Major-General SHERMAN: Richmond papers of yesterday announce the capture of General Stoneman and 500 of his party near Macon, Ga The capture took place the 31st of July. Have you heard anything of this ~ U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 4, 18G4. (Received 10.20 p. in.) Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, City Point: General Stonernan had only 2,300 men; 900 have got in. I fear the bal- ance arc captured as related in your dispatch. General Stoneman was sent to break railroad, after which I consented he should attempt the rescue of our prisoners at Andersonville. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 4, 18641.30 p. rn. (Received 9 p. m. 5th.) Lieut. den. U. S. GRANT, City Point: I have your second dispatch about General Stoneman. I have news- papers with dates from Macon of the 1st, speaking of Stonemans capture as a minor, but not as a fact. He started from here in con- nection with two other parties that have got back. He had 2,300 men, and after breaking the Macon road, he was to make an effort to rescue our prisoners. Colonel Adams, with 900 of his men, got back to Mari- etta to-day and telegraphs me he was attacked at Clinton, Ga .,by overwhehning numbers, and they fear he is captured. It may be so, but I hope he may, like McCook, dodge and get in. Washburn is mov- ing from holly Springs on Columbus, Miss. lie thinks that Forrest is (lead of the wound received in his battle with General Smith. The country in which I am operating is very difficult for a large army, and the defensive positions very strong and hard to circumvent, but perse- verance will move mountains. I ought to be better advised of your plans and movements. I hear you have blown up the outer bastion of Petersburg, but dont know how near you are to getting full possession of the place, or its bearing on Richmond. Hood uses his militia to fill his lines, and shows a bold front wherever I get at him. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. Qeneral. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 4, 1864. (Received 10.40 p. in.) CoMMIS~ARY.GENERAL OF SUBSISTENCE U. S. ARMY: Cannot something be done at Washington to stimulate the Quarter- masters Department to greater exertions in the way of transportation of our subsistence stores from the Ohio River to Nashville? Our sup- plies will soon be exhausted, and no visible and adequate means have been instituted to bring additional stores forward. A. I3ECKW1TH, Colonel and Chief Gomrnissary Page 351 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 351 IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 18G4. General WEBSTER, Nashville: As some confusion and misunderstanding has occurred relative to my oi ders as to newspapers and newspaper carriers, I will repeat that it is a small business for me to attend to it in the midst of an active campaign, and one that ought never to reach my notice. The military railroad is to carry supplies for the army. It cannot carry all the supplies allowed by law and usage, and therefore preference minist be gi.ven to some things over others: First, ammunition; second, clothing; third, provisions for men; fourth, forage for horses; and as I cannot in person supervise time bills of lading or loading of trains, I leave this to the quarterniaster at Nashville, who has the best knowledge of the state of supplies forward and at the depot, as well as the ca- pacity of the cars. Newspapers are a kind of freight, and as such I do not object to the quartermaster at Nashville shipping any number of bundles consigned to any of the posts forward, because they occupy little space, and the bulk of such newspapers cannot materially affect the quantity of provisions shipped; but newsvcnders, like any other merchants, must not travel mu the cars to sell their goods any more than grocers or hucksters. They may send bundles of their papers in the cars by consetit of the quartermaster who loads the cars. Every army commander can send his mail messengers daily each way, and these may carry papers as a part of the army mails, and the orders of Generals Thomas, Howard, and Schofield for officers and men are military orders of transportation that quartermasters will respect the same as mine. Passes to citizens as far as Chattanooga, in very limited numbers, may be granted by the authority of either of these army commanders, and they may send to the rear car-loads of prisoners, refugees and citizens, without limit, but I have ordered that on no pretense must citizens conic this side of Chattanooga, for 1 find them useless mouths that we cannot afford to feed. My orders also ame that officers must live on the soldiers ratiomi; yet if the quarterniaster at Nashville can keep our supplies up, and also send supplies to officers above the rations without interfering with the regular freight, he may do so. In other words, I hold the officers of the quartermasters department responsible that the army stores take precedence of all other stores, and if he sends any- thing else he cannot allege it as a reason for a failure to keel) ~ the regular supplies. The railroad has supplied us well, better than I ex- I )ected, and I am willing to continue to trtist the regular quartermasters who thus far have managed time business well. There is and can be no conflict of orders. No one can question my orders when they are posi- tive, but I do not choose to make orders touching freight absolutely posi- tive, save mu large articles, such as cotton and produce, that would, if attempted, soon absorb our cars, and thereby diminish the ability of our railroad to handle the vast amount of supplies on which we depend. All I order as to newspapers is that no monopoly should be allowed, amid officers can be supplied as in other mail matters, and veuders may get the quartermaster at Nashville to carry their bundles, but not their Carriers. These are superfluous. W. T. SHERMAN, llfajor- General, Commanding Page 352 352 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. NASHVILLE, TENTh, August 4, 1864. General SHERMAN: Orders were given to the military conductoi s to carry out your in- structions to Colonel Donaldson to exclude newspapers from the trains. The provost-marshal, Departmcnt of the Cumberland, has detailed military messengers, authorizing them to carry newspapers for traders. There will be a conflict of authorities unless it can be more clearly un- derstood who commands. J. D. WEBSTER, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., A ugust 4, 1864. General THOMAS: Will you let General Elliott get a return of all the cavalry not of General Garrards proper command, including Generals MeCooks, Kil- patrick~s, and Stonernan~s ,aud Colonel Hamiltons colllmail(ls, and pro- pose an organization that will make all efficient~ Colonel Adams has got to Marietta with 900 of General Stoneinans command. The resD are, I fear, lost to us. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Jiliajor- General, Commanding. hEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 4, 18646 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Elliott will get a return of the cavalry as you directed as soon as pos- sible. I heard heavy cannonading for a few moments about 3 p. nit. Was there any serious fighting on the right ~ GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- Ueneral, U. ~. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General THOMAS: Nothing was done on the right. General Palmers troops seem im- movable, but I have ordered operations to be resumed in the morning, and to be continued till we get possession of the Sandtown road. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. Major.General THOMAS: General Morgan L. Smith is reported as suffering so much from his old wound that he must go away. I can give hlazen a division in the Army of the Tennessee if you will consent to his transfer. It will make a good opening for his promotion, and the advancement of some good colonel. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General Page 353 CuAi. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 4, 1864. Major-General~SHERMAN: If I could have known this yesterday I would have consented to Gen- eral Kimballs going to General Howard. General ilazen is so identi- fied with the Fourth Corps that I would like very much to keep him with it. I will consent to the transfer of General Kimball to the Army of the Tennessee, and theu place Hazen in command of the First fit- vision, Fourth Corps, or consent to the transfer of Major-General Milroy to the Army of the Tennessee. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Gommanding. ~HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 4, 1864. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding Fourth Corps: I wish you to have persons on your lookout stations all along the line to observe closely the movements of the enemy, and hold your troops ready to take advantage of any opportunity to move on their intrench- inents. General Sherman thinks his movements this morning will either force them to attack him or place their communications in a criti- cal condition. One of my scouts came in last night. He reports their force opposed to you as weak, its right flank supported by a brigade of cavalry. Martins division of cavalry is posted on the south of the railroad, and about half way between Atlanta and Decatur. Garrard had better send out a small scouting party of active and intelligent nien to find Martins division and reconnoiter this position, with a view of attacking him if the ground be favorable. McCook has got back with about 1,200 men. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. P. 5.You had better make your headquarters at the house recently occupied by General Sherman, leaving the telegraph office at Woods headquarters. G. II. T. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 4, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE Chief 0/Staff: Colonel Kirby, of Groses division, just reports as follows: Our lookout reports that they discover the enemy moving columns of troops to our left. They could discover one entire regiment, and then por- tions of columns marching by the flank as they muoved past an open space. I am just starting over to the left to investigate this matter. D, S. STANLEY, JYlajor- ~r~er4. I~ R.YOjI~ NXXYlI1, PT Page 354 [CHAP. L. 354 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 18647.40 p. in. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chiefof& aff. The following just received: Colonel PosT: My lookout reports that rebel troops appear to be moving in two columns, but cannot tell in what direction on acconnt of the dust. BENNETT, Colonel Seventy-fifth Illinois. Colonel Posts lookout reports the rebels moving from our left to- ward town. I spent the afternoon at the angle; nothing observed but the movements of two small rebel regiments, one to the right and one to the left. 1). 5. STANLEY, Major- General. SCHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, August 4, 1864. Major-General THOMAS: I have no orders to-day from any quarter. The orders of the day iinply co-operation with General Schofield. General S[chofield] has shown me copy. ~. M. PALMER, Major- General. [Indorsenient.] Major-General PALMER: Carry out the instructions contained in the order. GEO. II. THOMAS, Major- General. SCHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, August 4, 1864. Maj. Gen. G. H. THOMAS, Commanding Department of the Cumberiand: The orders seem to be intended to give General Schofield control over my troops. Shall I turn them over to him l J. M. PALMER, Major- General. [Indorsement.] Major-General PALMER: No. Inform General Schofield that you are ready to co-operate with him. General Sherman does not intend to place you under Genera Schofields orders. GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General PALMER: You will during the movement against the railroad report to an receive orders from General Schofield. General Thomas will perso Page 355 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ally look to the front of Atlanta. General Howard will co-operate with General Schofield, and General Schofield, re-enforced by your corps, is charged to reach the railroad. Obey his orders and instructions. Acknowledge receipt. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Major-General SHERMAN, in the Field, August 4, 1864. Commanding: I am General Schofields senior. We may co-operate but I respect- fully decline to report to or take orders from him. Respectfully, JNO. M. PALMER, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General PALMER: I was und~r the impression that General Schofield ranked you. I had not thought of the relative rank. Co-operate heartily and the same result will be obtained. I will see you this afternoon. I assure you that I have no disposition to qualify your true rank. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTE1ThTH ARMY CORPS, August 4, 18641 p. m. Maj. Gem JOHN M. SCHOFIELD: I have this moment received a telegraphic order from Major.General Sherman directing me to report to you and obey your orders, and your Special Field Orders, No. 71, prescribing the movement of troops to-day. I respectfully decline obedience to either. You are my junior. While it was a questioii of co-operation, I raised no question about our respective rights and rank, and I have no doubt, influenced as we both are by friendly feelings and a desire to attain the best results, we should have operated to-day harmoniously. I (lid not claim to command your troops from motives of delicacy. I will not obey either General Shermans order or yours, as they violate my self-respect. I will nothing of this sort under orders, whatever I may yield to courtesy. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta~, Ga., August 4, 18643 p. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN M. PALMER Gommanding Fourteen11~ Army Gorps: GENERAL: I have just received your communication of 11 a. m. [I p.m. 0?] to.day, and beg leave to correct your impression that you are my 35 Page 356 [CHAr. L. 356 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. senior, which you give as your reason for refusing to obey my orders, and that of General Sherman directing you to report to me. You are my junior for two reasons, first, because I have the senior commission, and second, because I am by the Presidents order commander of a sepa- rate army. I regret extremely that any misunderstanding exists on this subject. Very respectfnlly, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]Iifajor- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISiON OF THE MissIsSwH, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 186410.45 p. m. General PALMER: From the statements made by youiself and General Schofield to-day, my decision is that he ranks you as major-general, being of same date of commission by previous rank as brigadier-general. The movements for to-morrow are so important that the orders of the superior on that flank should be minutely followed. General Schofields orders for move- ment to-morrow must be regarded as military orders and not in the nature of co-operation. 1 did hope that there was no necessity of mak- ing this decision, but it is better for all parties interested that no ques- tion of rank should occur during active battle. The Saudtowu road and the railroad, if possible, must be gained to-moi?row if it costs half your command. I regard the loss of time this afternoon as equal to the loss of 2,000 men. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, August 4, 186411.55 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN: Dispatch of 10.45 of this p. m. this moment received. I am unable to acquiesce in the correctness of the decision that Major-General Schofield legally ranks inc. I do not argue the question, but re- peat the facts. General Schofield was appointed brigadier-general on the 21st of November 1861 and I was appointed to the same on the 20th of December of the same year. At the session of Congress 1862 63 General Schofield and myself were promoted to the rank of muajor- general of volunteers. My appointment was confirmed by the Senate, and his expired by constitutional limitation. Not having been con- firmed by the Senate his name, therefore, does not appear in the list 01 major-generals in the Army Register of April 1, 1863. He was reap pointed by the President and confirmed since the commencemnent of thc present campaigmm. His commission must be a year in date junior to my own, thongh he is said to take rank from the 29th of November, 1862 The question of rank has arisen by accident and I agree with you that it is better for the interest of all l)arties that it should be decided but I cannot acquiesce in the comrectmmess of the decision made. I re speetfully ask, therefore, that some officer be (lesignated to whom I may turn over the command of the Fourteenth Army Corps. I think I need not assure you or General Schofield that I am not in wnu~1 b~ ~ny desire to ~op~ip~a~4 ilPn, m~or that, if I deeni~d it Consis~ Page 357 CHAP. L.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 357 ent with my self-respect to waive the question or my views of our relative rank, I would obey his orders as cheerfully as I would those of any gentleman connected with the army. I am, very respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 18649 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. F. KNIPE, Comman4ing First Division: GENERAL: The general commanding the corps directs me to send you the inclosed order of Major-General Sherman* and to say that the withdrawal of troops from this part of the line for important oper- ations on the right possibly may induce the enemy to make a demon- stration and perhaps an attack on our lines. He directs that all the troops be kept well in hand at the breast-works; that all the reserves be stationed at the weakest points in the lines, and everything be in readiness for immediate use. The reserves of the First Division will be held near the railroad. The general desires that ~irll commanding officers will be with their commands during the day and see personally to the dispositions. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant A djut ant- General. (Same to Generals Geary and Ward.) HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. T. WARD, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The general commanding the corps directs that you push the work on the new breast-works to the utmost, and occupy them with your troops at the earliest possible moment. General Thomas has so ordered. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. PERKINS. Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. SH~NAL DEPT., ARMY OF THE CU1VIZBERLAND, Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, August 4, 1864. Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: I have the honor to report the following just received from station of observation at General Gearys headquarters: Can see no movemciit whatever in Atlanta nor along the works. Some of the works in front of Twentieth Army Corps very strong, having in some cases two rows sharpened sticks and one and two rows abatis. Can see considerable artillery firing at a point due southwest from here. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, XV. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. See p. 364 Page 358 [ChAP. L. 358 TIlE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. DECATUR, August 4, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Two regiments of brigade, now loading on cars, will be off soon. Others will foflow soon as transportation is furnished to four guns be- longing to brigade artillery, without horses and short of men. Shall they go forward ~ Rousseau is looking up all the troops he can find. Dont know how he has succeeded. Will apply for negro regiments. If I can get them I can forward Tenth Indiana Cavalry, 900 strong. Six companies of Ninth, also dismounted, could be replaced by colored troops. R. S. GRANGER, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., Augnst 4, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Colonel Garrard drove the rebel pickets across Utoy Creek, at Dol- lars Mill, and at the bridge near its mouth, so that there is now no rebel cavalry this side of the creek. I propose in the morning to work forward from ilascalls left toward the high wooded hill occupied by the rebel artillery, thus shortening the line across to Howard, and if possi- ble gain the hill. I can do nothing on my right until Palmer works up onto the Sandtown road. I will hold Cox ready to strike there as soon as the movement on the right will justify it. Respectfully, ~. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MIsSISsIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Angnst 4, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I am willing you should attempt to carry that wooded hill to the left front of General Hascall, but its value is not great as compared to ad- vancing oui~ extreme right to and beyond the Sandtown road. So we conform our general line close to theirs, it makes little difference to us where their line is. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- Gen~ral, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., Angust 4, 1864. (Received 9.50 a. in.) General SCHOFIELD: As a preliminary move to that prescribed in orders, I suggest you dispatch at once a brigade of General ~ reserve down the penin- sula between Utoy and Chattahoochee toward Utoy Post-Office, to have the effect of making the enemy believe we propose to extend onr lines down the big Sandtown road; the cavalry to move on their right, and none to go beyond Utoy Creek. The cavalry to remain and demon- strate as though we intended to cross there, and the infantry to rejoin its division. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 359 CHAP L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 359 HDQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: As soon as you have made enough roads and bridges to have easy communication across Utoy, I will come down to General Howards right and your left. I think that dam might be cut away and a couple crossing-places made near General Coxs left and center. I want the heavy columns to move as early as 3 p. in., and there should be at least one road per division across Utoy and up the hill. - W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, August 4, 186411.30 a. in. Major-General SHERMAN: We have good facilities for crossing the creek. I have ordered all preparations for the attack to be made by 2 oclock, though we may not be ready before 3. Do you desire it made at any particular hour? General Palmer is sending a brigade to the right, as you suggested. Will you be here in person ~i General Palmer is making preparations to execute your orders, but expects orders through General Thomas. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have notified other commanders, that the attack will commence at 3 p. m. That will be early enough. In the mean time make all prepara- tions, especially to look to your connection with General Howard. I will be over. General Palmer will be ordered to report to you with his command. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. AUGUST 4, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I am just starting for your flank. Go on and I will overtake you. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. (Received 9.20 p. in.) General SCHOFIELD: That is very well as to your left, but I want to assume the offensive on the right, and wish you to order General Pahner to advance his left division till he reaches the Sandtown road, and its right supported by General Davis division. General Johnsons division should reach th Page 360 360 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. S andtown road more to the right, and close to the left on General Davis. The connection between you and General Howard is not important. Slash down the timber in the valley of Utoy, and a single battery with a regiment of skirmishers will hold a mile against the whole of hoods army. I want all of your army and General Palmers corps to turn the enemys left, and the sooner it is done the better. I wish you to make written orders, so that Generals Palmer and Baird cannot mistake them. Their delay this afternoon was unpardonable. If the enemy ever gets a column through our lines, we will let go our breast-works and turn on his flanks, and, therefore, 1 do not care about our line being continuous and uniform. If they sally it will be quick and by some well-defined road. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, August 4, 18649.20 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: I have your dispatch (lirecting me to order certain movements by General Palmers corps. I did not understand that the question of rank raised by General Palmer was settled. In his reply to my orders for to-days movements and your order to report to me he said: I will not obey either General Shermans order or yours, the reason being his assumed seniority. In subsequent conversations he still maintained the same ground and I did not understand him to yield or you to decide the question after you arrived but to waive it, with the remark that no such question could arise between such men, and that we could co- operate harmoniously. I feel confident that General Palmer under- stands the question as having been so waived. Please inform me if you gave General Palmer distinctly to understand that he is to obey my orders. Please have it understood before I send him orders for to- morrow. It is a very delicate and unpleasant matter for me to corre spond with him about. - Respectfully, .1-. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 186412.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Major-General Schofield directs me to inform you that the attack to-day will be made at 3 p. m. iimstead of at 2 p. in., as pre- viously ordered. The general desires you, however, to continue your preparations in order to be sure to be ready at that hour. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. (Same to Generals Cox and Hascall. Page 361 CHAP, 1.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIQN. 361 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Utoy Greek, Ga., August 4, 1864. - General THOMAS: General Sherman directed me to telegraph you and say the troops of Generals Schofield and Palmer were advancing across Utoy Creek and towar(l the Sandtown road. General Sherman is on the hill this side of the creek and just above Herrings Mill. W. C. BARTLETT, Captain and Aide-dc- Camp. (Same to General Stanley.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps GENERAL: Major-General Schofield directs me to forward you the inclosed Special Field Orders, No. 71, current series, from these headquarters, for to-morrows movements of the Fourteenth and Twenty- third Army Corps.* The order is sent to you as the senior and com- manding general of the Fourteenth Army Corps, as Major-General Palmer still adheres to the views lie expressed on yesterday. In order to prevent ally delay, Generals Baird and Morgan have been furnished with copies of the inclosed orders direct from these headquarters. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. TIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Utoy Creek, August 4, 18643.30 p. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio: SIR: I have made a personal reconnaissance of General Hascalls right and Bairds left. General Baird has not yet moved and told me five minutes ago he had as yet no orders. Reillys brigade is in the creek bottom ready to cross. I have halted the others in tIme road ont of sight. Any advance from Hascalls right will be taken in rear by the enemys fire until General Bairds right is swung forward so as to contimmue the direction of the line in its prolongation as it leaves Has. call. A little farther to the left the ground is open and an advance would have no cover whatever. There is a ridge running straight for- ward from Hascalls right on which a movement can be made whenever it is covered froni the rear fire of which I have spokenL An officer whom I take to be one of General Palmers staff has just passed seeking General Baird. Very respectfully, & c., J. P. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. *Seep 3434 Page 362 [CHAP. L. 362 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHio, Before Atlanta, Ua., August 4, 18649 p. m. Brig. Gen. M. S. HASCALL, Commanding Second Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: General Palmer is ordered to press forward onto the Sandtown road in the morning; and the programnicof to-day in substance is still to be pursued during the morning. Until Palmers movements enable Cox to work from your right we will direct our attention to your left. It occurs to me that your reserve brigade can work forward and get to the low ridge in front of your left and near the hill occupied by the rebel artillery, and I think it not un probable that we may be able to gain that hill. At all eve~nts, we will shorten the line across to Howard, and make a strong diversion in favor of operations to the right. Study the matter and see what can be done. We ought to be- gin pretty early in the morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]liajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. Col. ISRAEL GARRARD, Commanding Seventh Ohio Cavalry: COLONEL: Your dispatch of to-day (dated yesterday, the 3d instant) has been received and read by the major-general commanding, who di- re~ts me to inform you that to-morrow (the 5th instant) General Howard will send over a regiment of mounted infantry to co-operate with you on your right. The commanding general desires you, with this regi- mnent, to guard all the fords and bridges of Utoy Creek below the point where General Kings brigade crossed, and prevent enenmys crossing. Very respectfully, your 6bedient servant, WM. M. WHERRY, Major and Aide-de-Camp. HDQRS. MILiTARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. General HOWARD: General Thomas is willing to give General Kimball, but says Gen- eral Hazen is s~ identified with the Fourth Corps that he cannot spare him. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commandin~ HDQRS. MILITARY I)IVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Gap., August 4, 1864. General HOWARD: Order more and better bridges over Proctors Creek. There should be two good ones where there is now one, and another opposite Davis hill, where the old mill was. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 363 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 363 HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. Lient. Col. WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General: I have the honor to report that in accordance with orders I advanced my skirmish line to-day, taking the rebel rifle-pits just before dark. The enemy attacked my line heavily along its entire front and drove me back. I re-enforced the line until I had five regiments engaged, and retook the pits and now hold them. The ground, however, is untgnable, from the fact that at dark the advance of the troops on my left had not con- nected, my line being in advance of their skirmishers, and General Leg- gett reported that he could not hold hisline, and fell back to the old line. I therefore ordered that my line should be held and intrenched as far in advance of the old line as the connection on the right and left would admit. Prisoners captured say that our extreme advance was within 600 yards of their main works. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major- General, Commanding. [AUGUST 4, 1864.For Logan to Clark, reporting skirmish on August 3, with table of casualties, see Part III, p. 87.] MARIETTA, August 4, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Colonel Adams, commanding brigade of Stonemans cavalry, is here with the First and Eleventh Kentucky, about 900 strong. He thinks that the balance of the command are prisoners, including General Stone- man. He cut the railroad south of Macon. The command was over- whelmed by the rebels between Monticello and Clinton. SAML. ROSS, Colonel Twentieth Connecticut Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August -4, 1864. Colonel Ross, Marietta: Let Colonel Adams collect all of General Stonemans cavalry make his depot at Marietta, and picket Roswell in connection with the regi- ment of inflintry there. I will trust that General Stoneman will fight his way out like General MeCook. Tell Colonel Adams to make a minute report of the facts and let me draw conclusions. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. ROME, August 4, 1864. Major-General STEEDMAN: A considerable body of the enemy are reported to have crossed the Coosa below here for the purpose of making a raid upon the railroad. WM. YANDEVER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 364 364 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 4, 186411 p. in. Maj. THoMAS T. ECKERT: Nothing accomplished to-day, movements having been brought to deadlock by squabble about rank between Schofield and Palmer, which at this hour is unsettled. Hope to do something to-morrow but cannot say exactly what. No further news from Stonemans force. J. (5. VAN T)UZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE Miss., In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., No. 51. ) August 4, 1864. The order of movement of the army to.day will be as follows: I. Major-General Schofield with his own command and General Palm- ers corps will move directly on the railroad which leads south out of Atlanta, at any point between White Hall and East Point, and will not stol) until he has absolute control of that railroad, but must not ex- tend more to the right than is absolutely necessary to that end. IL. Major-Generals Thomas and Howard will press close on the enemy at all points, and re-enforce well the points of the line where the enemy is most likely to sally, viz, on the Decatur, Buck Head, and Turners Ferry roads, but more especially watch the outlet along the railroad, viz, Gen- eral Williams front. III. On the right we must assume the offensive and every man be pre- pared to fight, leaving knapsacks, & c., in the present trenches. Wagons will not be taken east of Utoy Creek until General Schofield has secured position on the railroad or so near it that it can be reached by musket- balls and canister. If necessary to secure this end ordinary parapets must be charged and carried, and every hours delay enables the enemy to strengthen. Therefore let it be done to-day. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 71. 5 Near Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. L-To carry out the orders for the day from headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi the following movements will be made: Generals Bairds and Hascalls divisions will press forward close to the enerny~s works from left to right, make a strong and continuous demon- stration, and even attack in case the character of the enemys works or the stremmgth of his forces indicate that they can be carried. General Palmer will support General Bairds right, with one division iii reserve. Gemmeral Coxs division (three brigades), of the Twenty-third Army Corps, and one division of General Palmers COY~5 will be formed into strong columns of attack to the right and rear of General Bairds, pre- pared to attack the enemys position in their front at 2 p. mu. The ad- vance of the attacking force will be immediately preceded by a very strong line of skirmishers, to drive the enemy into his intrenchments, and press close enough to be able to reconnoiter well the position. The commanders of the attacking force will quickly reconnoiter the enemy Page 365 CHAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~TJNION. 366 lines and select their points of attack. If it be found that the enemys works are only ordinary parapets and without impassable abatis or other serious obstructions in front, the assault will be made at once, so as not to leave time for the enemy to re-enforce the points threatened. If the commanders judge that the enemys line cannot be carried, the assault will be delayed and tbe reconnaissance continued to the right. If a point of the enemys line be carried, the advantage will be pressed as vigorously as practicable until a point be gained commanding at. short musket-range the railroad. The point of the railroud to be gained is about east or southeast from the point of attack. General C~x will swing forward Barters and Crittendens brigades, so as to substantially connect General Howards right and General ilascalls left, and strongly intrench the new position. General Coxs attacking column will form on the left, immediately to Bairds right, and that of General Palmers corps on the right. General Palmers reserve division will support the right. * * * * * * * IV. The movemnetits of the Fourteenth and Twenty.third Corps to. morrow will be as follows, viz: At 5 a. m. General Johnson will move for the Sandtown road and push forward vigorously along that road until he connects with, or comes in close supporting distance to, Gen- eral Davis. At 6 a. m. General Baird will push forward his whole line, conforming it substantially to the direction of the enemys works, until he drives in the enemys skirmnishers and draws the fire of their line. General Davis division will advance in support of General Bairds right, ammd,if it can be done without seriously exposing his own flank, will prolong General Bairds line until he crosses the Sandtown road~ in which case General Johnson, on coming up, will be in reserve. If Gen- eral Davis finds it impracticable to cross the road before General Johnson comes up, he will refuse his right until Gemmeral Johnson arrives within supporting distance, when General Davis will swimmg forward, leaving General Johusonin reserve. General Baird will move without reference to his connection with General ilascall. General Cox will promptly fill any gap which may be [made] by his movement and will support him in case of an attack by the enemy. In addition to the above, General Cox will hold his division in readiness to be used as an assaulting force at any point which may be selected after the mnovements above ordered have been executed. If in the above move- mnent either division reach a point of the enemys line which, in the opinion of the division commuander, can be carried, he will assault at once, notifying his superior (fleer and the commanders of the adjacent divisions of his intentions, so that they may promptly take advantage of any success he may gain. If the troops find themnselves confronting positions too strong to be carried, they will intrench at once, and pre- pare to hold their limmes with as small force as practicable, when the movemnent will be continued to the right, with a view to turn the enemys left or reach a point of his lines which can be assaulted with success. Promnptness and vigor are essential to the success of this movement. If General Palmer finds that he can reach the enemys flank by detaching a division a short distance to the right, he will send the division with orders to strike the flank vigorously and, by forcing the enemy back, secure its connection with the corps. In case of such a movment, General Cox will move to tlme right as a reserve. General Johnson will watch well his right and rear during his advance omi the Sandtown road, and keep a strong skirmish himie well out in those direc- tiops, General Hascahl will thin out hi~ line ~s imuich as 1~ ~ii wit Page 366 366 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. ~CnAr. L safety, so as to obtain a strong reserve for use at other points of the field. He will use his artillery freely, and press his skirmishers during the movements on his right. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ~RDERS, ) IIEADQUAIITEIIS T)EPARTMENT ~ AND ARMY OF TilE TENNESSEE, No. 88. Before Atlanta, Ga., August 4, 1864. * * * * * * * IV. Major-General Schofield having been ordered to move his com- mand, with the corps of Major-General Palmer, in order to throw him- self across the railroad, commencing the movement at 3 oclock this p. in., tfle following are the orders for this army: 1. At 2.30 p. m. to-day the line of skirmishers will be doubled, and the enemy pressed hard along the whole line. 2. All the men iu the trenches will stand under arms during the demonstration, without their knapsacks. 3. Major-General Logans division will be held where it now is, in readiness to move to any point at a moments warning. 4. It is desirable that corps commanders personally superintend the movement of the skirmishers, using their artillery when and where they deem necessary with a view to keeping the enemy in his works and to deceive him as to the real movement. 5. The general or some of his staff will be at De Gress battery near the right of line. * * * * * * * VIII. Brig. Gen. Morgan L. Smith, U. S. Volunteers, will as soon as able for duty proceed to Memphis, Teun., and report to Maj. Gen. C. C. Washburn for assignment to the command of tIme District of Vicksburg. The major-general eommnan(ling takes this occasion to express his sin- cere regret that the failing healtim of General Smith has compelled him to leave the front, wlmere (luring this campaign lie has so gallantly dis- tinguished himnself, and added to his already brilliant reputation as a skillful and an accomplished offleer, winning the confidence and esteem of his superiors and endearing himself to this wimole command. IX. Major-General Dodge, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, will direct tlme Ninth lilinois Cavalry* to establish their head- quarters on the Greens Ferry road, and form a line of pickets from the right of time imifantry or cavalry (if there be any cavalry on time right of the line) to time main Utoy Creek, keeping up their patrol, and report- ing time result frequently to these headquarters. Major-General Dodge will cause his front to b~ reconimoitered by his engineer officer with a view to the establishment of a new advanced line to connect with the new line to be established in front of the Seventeenth Army Corps. 2. Major-General Blair, comunmanding Seventeenth Corps, will cause his front to be reconnoitered with a view to the establishment of a new line. He will (lirect his emigineer officer to act in concert with the en- gineer officers of the Fifteenth arid Sixteenth Corps, under the supervis- ion of Capt. C. B. Reese, chief engineer. 3. Major-General Logan, coummnandimmg Fifteenth Army Corps, will cause Imis front to be reconnoitered, and will connect his advanced line Mountc4 iimfai~try Page 367 CHAP L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 367 with the Seventeenth Corps, directing his engineers to co-oJ)erate with the engineers of the Seventeenth Army Corps, under the direction of Capt. C. B. Reese, chief engineer. 4. The object being to advance as rapidly and as far as possible to- ward the enemys position, corps commanders will aLct in concert, se- cure all vantage ground and every commanding position. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assi~ta~tt Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. I~EFT WIN(~~, 16TH ARMY CORPS, No. 54. 5 Near Atlanta, Ga., Augn8t 4, 18G4. I. In order to successfully carry out Special Field Orders No. 88, Department and Army of the Tennessee the foil owing instructkftis will be complied with as near as possible by division commanders: First. The skirmish line will be doubled, ready to advance before the appointed time. As good a knowledge of the ground will be obtained as possible, and when the advance is made, the batteries will open upon the skirmish line of the enemy and his rifle-pits carried; the move to be made in conjunction on the right with the Seventeenth Corps and on the left, if practicable, with the Twentieth Corps. Second. After the enemys line is carried and during the time bat- teries will continue to play upon the enemys main works or any of his troops that may be discerned. Commanders of divisions will have an understanding with the division commanders on their right and left, so that the advance can be made in unison. Headquarters of the general commanding will be on the hill near the signal station. By order of Maj. Gen. G. M. T)odge: J. W. BARNES, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIvIsION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, JSGI. (Received 11 a. in. 6th.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: The time has now come that we must have the exclusive use of the Northwestern road from Nashville to Reynoldsburg. it has been sub- stantially done for somne time, but Governor Johnson retains the man- agement of it for some reason, under your fo~iner orders; but to be of service to us in the presemit emergency it must be in the control of Mr. Anderson, superintendent of military roads, that trains may run con- tinuously from the Tennessee River, at Reynoldsburg, to our camp. This lnain road has been admirably managed, and has supplied this vast army, so that not a man, horse, or mule has beemi for a day without food and abundant snpplies of clothing and ammunition. Our prog- ress may be slow to you all at a distance, but if you ever cross this ground you will not accuse us of being idlers. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 368 368 [CHAr. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. WASHINGTON, August 5, 186410.15 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN, Near Atlanta, Ga.: Your request about horses from Saint Louis has been anticipated. In- stead of 2,000 on hand, they will not be able to send you 1,000 in less than a week. The country is nearly exhausted of cavalry horses, and unless there is a greater economy in their use the men must very soon go afoot. H. W. HALLECK, ill aor- General and Chief of Staff. llnQRs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Govei~nor ANDREW JOHNSON, Nashville, Tenn.: We will now need the exclusive use of the railroad from the Teiines- see to Nashville, to be operated by the same parties who now operate the Chattanooga. Cars will load at Reynoldsburg and come to our camp. I will instruct General Webster to make all the orders neces- sary to -make the transfer. If the road and fixtures are incomplete, we will take it as it is and make the best use we can of it. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HnQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General WEBSTER, Nashville: See Governor Johnson and arrange for transferring the railroad to theTennessee,from Reynoldsburgto Nashville, to Mr. Anderson, superin- tendent of road, that he may use his trains from Reynoldsburg to our camp at Atlanta. Notify Colonel Donaldson to use that road hereafter, and to make temporary sheds at the river. Telegraph to Admiral Porter as to patrolling the river up as far as Reynoldsburg, and see General Rousseau as to guarding it to Nashville. Make all arrangeiuents that the route may be entire and complete under one single management. When the Cumberland River rises so as to be available it may again, so far as I am concerned, go back to the management of Governor Johnson. I will telegraph the Secretary of War as to the necessity of this change. W. T. SHERMAN, Major. General, Commanding. SCHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, August 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMNN: Nothing done, nor will anything be done to-day. WILLARi) WARNER, Lie#tenant- Colon& l, 4~w Page 369 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 369 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General THOMAS, Army of the Cumberland: Yesterday General Palmer raised the question of rank with General Schofield. I went in person and found that General Schofield ranked General Palmer as a brigadier; but General Palmer was appointed and confirmed major-general to date November 29, 1862. Gei~ieral Schofield was also nominated from same date, but the Senate would not confirm. But since that session the Senate has confirmed, and General Schofield has his commission of same date as General Palmer, and ranks him by virtue of prior commission. I have so decided, and Gen- eral Palmer asks to be relieved of his command and to be ordered North. I declined and ordered him emphatically to go on to-day and execute the plan prescribed for yesterday, in connection with and under coin- inand of General Schofield. I have another letter from him, asking to be relieved after to-days operations. Now, what say you ~ General Davis is unwell and General Johnson ranks him. That is the largest Corps we have, and thus far has not sustained heavy loss in this cam- paign. It moves slowly and reluctantly and there is something wrong. What are your plans and wishes l General Schofield reports that Gen- eral Johnsons division has reached the Sandtown road well to the right by a road I put it on last night. General Morgaims divisiou also has reached it, and General Baird is swinging by a left wheel, so his right flank will reach it. Generals Schofield and Palmer have both gone out to complete the movement, which involves a push toward the railroad till our right dank is near enough the railroad to control it by short-range artillery. There was sharp firing for a few moments this morning, but it has ceased now, so that I begin to think we will suc- ceed on that flank without the serious battle I apprehended. Still, keep your ears open, and if you hear heavy musketry over near White Hall, either make a break into Atlanta or so occupy the lines that the enemy may not detach too heavily against Generals Schofield and Palmer. Generals Howard and Schofield will connect by a shorter line across the head of Utoy Creek. Our cavalry has scouted down to the mouth of Utoy Creek. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 5, 18619.30 a. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch received. I regret to hear that Palmner has taken the course he has, and as I know he intends to offer his resignation as soon as he feels he can do so without injury to himself I recommend that his application to be relieved from the command of the Fourteenth Army Corps be granted. I earnestly recommend Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis for major-general U. S. Volunteers for past services and uniform gal- lantry in battle, and apply to have him assigned to the command of the Fourteenth Army Corps. I have everybody on the lookout for any movement of the enemy. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. ~. Volunteers. 24 R RVOL XXXVIII, PT Page 370 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. 370 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MI~sIssrPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General THOMAS: Your dispatch is received. I will send a copy of it to General Palmer and give him a couple of hours to think of it, and if he reiterates his application I will leave you to accept and let him go. I will then indorse your recommendation of General Jeff. C. Davis as major-general and commander of the Fourteenth Corps. I dont want General Palmer to make so fatal a mistake as lie seems bent on committing. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August 5, 1864. Generals THOMAS and SCHOFIELD: The following dispatch has just come through General Howard: The pickets report heavy movements of trains toward our right. The rebel skir- mishers are very active along the whole line. It may be an evacuation, or they may be massing their forces on Schofield. GILES A. SMITH, Brigadier-General. General Giles A. Smith is about Howards center, in front of where the battle of the 28th was fought, therefore opposite to and nearest White Hall. Let Stanley pitch in again and generally let all our lines be active. If our movements had been more positive to-day I should infer that the enemy was quitting Atlanta to make sure of East Point. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General THOMAS: General Schofield telegraphs: I am compelled to acknowledge that I have totally failed to make any aggressive movement with the Fourteenth Corps. The efforts yesterday and to-day on this hank have been more than mere failures. I have ordered General Johnson to relieve General Hascall this evening, and propose to take my own troops to the right and try to recover what has been lost by two days delay. The force may very likely he too small. From what I saw myself there was a manifest determination not to move toward the enemy. General Davis division is a mile farther west than when it started. I see no help for it but to lose the services of the corps and let General Schofield feel for the enemy eastward, while the Fourteenth intreuches against a squad of cavalry that may be on the flank. Colonel Warner, of my staff, rode out half a mile in front of the extreme front and saw no sign of an enemy. I will have General Palmer report in the morning, and if he wishes to go it is best he shonld. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 371 CHAP. L.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 371 llnQus. DEPT. o~ THE CUMBERLAND, August 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I am surprised to receive such a report of the Fourteenth Corps, for it has always been prompt in executing any work given to it heretofore. If General Palmer is an obstacle to its efficiency, I would let him go. I had the Fourth and Twentieth Corps demonstrate strongly on the enemys line from 12 m. until night. They found the intrenchmeuts heavily manned. I will have the skirmishers feel forward again to-night to see if the enemy have left. The Fourth and Twentieth Corps now occupy the whole line held by the Twenty-third, Twentieth, and Fourth Corps before the movement on the right commenced, conse- quently they are in single line, and it will be impossible to form an as- saulting column. I sent Whipple to the right to-day. He has just returned and informed inc that all that was done to-day on the right was done by Bairds division, which advanced in obedience to Schofields orders, but not being supported either on its right or left, General Baird fell back to his former position after having driven the enemy from two lines of rifle-pits, and capturing 160 prisoners, losing about 100 men himself. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General THOMAS: Colonel Warner, one of my inspectors-general, who was on the right all day, reports nothing done or would be done. Will General Johnson be any better than General Palmerl I would prefer to move a rock than to move that corps. On the defensive it would be splendid, but for offensive it is of no use. It must have a head that will give it life and impulse. I was ashamed yesterday and kept away on purpose to- day to see if orders would not move it, but if an enemy can be seen by a spy-glass time whole corps is halted and intrenched for a siege. Un- less it will attack I must relieve it in orders and state the reason. I will call for official reports and act to-night. Is General Johnson capable of handling the corps till we can have General Davis commissioned and ordered to the command l W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Johnson ought to be able to immaneuver the corps. He has corn- manded a division for more than two years. GEO. H. THOMAS~ Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Generals THOMAS and HoWARD: I hear General Schofield engaged well off to the right. Always push up against Atlanta at the n eakest Points in your front assaultin Page 372 372 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. parties, who may during an attack at the right gain one of their re- doubts or salients, which will settle the question quick; at all events will keep employed a large force to hold their lines. W. T. SHERMAN, Miajor- General, Commanding. SHERMANS HEADQUARTERS, August A, 1864. General THOMAS: Generals Schofield and Palmer must be engaged. We can hear the musketry. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General THOMAS: I tel& graphed to General IR. S. Granger this morning that he need not send the battery along with the infantry brigade. If not needed at Decatur order General Granger to send it to Nashville in reserve. I kiiow that the slowness of the troops on the right was not the fault of the men, but the want of proper direction on the part of the command- ers. First, was the question of rank; and next, the course taken was too far west, away from the railroad rather than toward it. To-night General Schofield will put General Johnson in the trenches, take his out, and move perpeiidicular to the road, and not extend to the right more than is necessary, and will have Generals Baird and Morgan in support. If we can keep the forts of Atlanta full, with four divisioiis in hand, we can whip any force outside of rebel intrenchuments, and will have General Johnson near enough for support. All our line is well developed, but is generally strengthened by good abatis and parapet, and conforms pretty close to the enemy, so that if we force the enemy to stick in his trenches General Schofield should surely reach the railroad and overcome any force the enemy has outside. I have no doubt by our delay the enemy is better prepared than lie would have been could we have moved quick, as I ordered yesterday. Last night I could see the cars, say a mile and a quarter due southeast, whereas Geiierals Baird and Johnson to-day moved southwest, or nearly due west, away from the enemy. Lint we will try again to-morrow, and persevere to the end. I have written to General Palmer at length, and asked him to and see me very early in the mornino and if he wants to ~o I come ~, b will assent, and in that event will make the recommendations you sug- gested this morning. I have personally examiiied our line from right to left, and feel no uneasiness as to the enemy umaking a sally. I know it will be hard to make an assaulting column, but all I waimt is to force the enemy to hold troops at all points, so as not to mass too heavy ~n our right. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 373 CHAP. L.] CORRE8PONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 373 SIGNAL DEPARTMENT ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND Howards House, August 5, 18649 a. m. Captain CASE: I see no indications of troops moving from my front. Everything is quiet as can be. I can tear no artillery and see no smoke of battle in direction of Palmer and Schofield. Will keep a good lookout and re- port often. The telegraph has not yet reached here. Very respectfully, FORAKER, Acting Signal Officer. HOWARDS HoUSE, August 5, 186412.30 p. m. Captain CASE: Nothing new on our front. I hear heavy artillery firing in direction of our extreme right. Some of our shells burst over city. B. FORAKER, Acting Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, August 5, 1864. (Received 7.30 a. in.) Maj. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, Commanding Fourth Army Corps: GENERAL: The indications are that Major-Generals Schofield and Palmer are en aged with the enemy, as the musketry can be heard. The major-generall commanding directs that yon observe closely the indica- tions of the battle, and should our troops advance upon the town that you be prepared to take advantage of such movement. Yours, very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General. AUGUST 5, 1864. Major-General STANLEY, Commanding Fourth Corps: How are things going on your front ~ Do you observe any move- ments of the enemy ~ GEG. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, 2ommanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 18648.40 a. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: The enemy has been skirmishing in front of my left -since sunrise; the skirmishing is on the left and rear of the line toward Decatur. I have just ordered General Wood to send two regiments to re-enforce the left, and am now starting for that point. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General Page 374 [CHAP. L. 374 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 5, 186412.40 p. in. (Received 12.50 p. in.) General STANLEY: Schofield is heavily engaged with the enemy. Watch them closely in your front and take advantage of any attempt they may make to withdraw from your front. Threaten them all along your line. Tell Garrard to keep a good lookout on his front and take advantage imme- diately of any favorable opportunity to move against the enemy. GEG. II. THOMAS, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 18644.45 p. m. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff: I attacked the rebels with a heavy skirmish line along my whole front; drove them from their rifle-pits in front of Groses position from Woods front. We received a heavy fire from their main works, mus- ketry and artillery. From Groses we received a heavy fire from their main works and a heavy out-work 100 yards in front of the main work. I see no chance to carry their main work without severe loss. I have not heard from Newton yet. I am now moving regiments to the front and will make a reconnaissance, feeling for their right. No movements of the enemy except manning the works have been observed. They have been discovered at work all day. D. ~. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Howards House, August 5, 186412.50. Captain BRIDGES, Chief of Artillery: Open with rifled guns and solid shot from 12-pounders on rebel front and city. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, August 5, 1864. Generals NEWTON and Woon: Schofield is heavily engaged with the enemy. Re-enforce your skir- mish line; open fire and advance your skirmishers where you can threaten the enemy, and if he leaves hi~ works to re-enforce his left take advantage to push into his works. Make his skirmish line hot for him; open deliberately with solid shot on his batteries D. S. STANLEY, Major- General Page 375 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 375 HDQRS. MILITARY DiVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 5, 1864. General STANLEY: A heavy movement of troops is reported out of Atlanta, south through White Hall. Let your extreme left feel forward strong and fire half dozen shots with artillery in quick succession or by volleys, something different from the usual way. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CoRPs, August 5, 186410 p. m. Brigadier-General KIMBALL, Commanding First Division, Fourth Army Corps: Direct the artillery on your front to fire six volleys at intervals of ten minutes into Atlanta. Let your skirmishers keep up fire and notice if the rebels return fire. Do you see any sign of their qnitting~? If so, push skirmishers up. General Sherman thinks they may quit. Our forces did nothing on the.right to-day. Baird captured 150 on skirmish line, but not being supported fell back to his intrenchments. Please answer. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, In the Field, August 5, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMs, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: Major-General Sherman reports that he can hear musketry on the front of Generals Palmer and Schofield and concludes that they must be engaged. The major-general commanding directs that you observe well the indications of the battle, and if there is any move of our troops toward the town that you be prepared to take advantage of it. Very respectfully, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. STATION OBsERvATIoN, August 5, 1864. Capt. A. K. TAYLOR, Acting Signal Officer, Commanding: CAPTAIN: No change since morning. Very few rebels seen during the skirmishing this afternoon along the front of the Fourth and Twentieth Army Corps. Saw rebel skirmishers firing from pits close to line of works near white frame honse in front of First Division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting AS~gnal Officer Page 376 376 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. t. STATION OBSERVATION, August 5, 1864. Capt. A. K. TAYLOR, Acting Signal OlJIcer, Twentieth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: Directly south from here can see men at work on a fort. Twenty degrees east of south is a fort with embrasures fallen in on sides. This is in front of Twentieth Army Corps, and from this point to sontheast along same front very few men can be seen in the enerny~s works. Can see no movements of troops. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, W. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta Ga., A ugust 5, 1864. General THOMAS, Commanding Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: General Milroys letter of July 26, with your indorse- ment, is now before me. He asks to suppress the sale and circulation in his district of certain mischievous and treasonable newspapers, and - transmits certain slips as proof of the mischievous tendency of their contents. I have no objection whatever, but in human nature there is so much of the mule left that prohibition of a newspaper increases its circulation. So long as the freedom of the press is one of the founda- tion stones of our Government, I think we must allow it to work out its solution, the reductio ad absurdum of the mathematician. It has been the chief canse of this horrid war. It has nndermined all that was good and generous and magnanimous in the character of the Amer- ican people. It has made false issues, it has kindled the wildest pas- sions and kept them alive, till reason no longer even pretends to enter into our national affairs. It has cost us two thousand millions of dollars, has destroyed half a million of the finest young men of our country, and filled the lammd from Maine to Louisiana with widows and cripples, yet it is insatiate. It claims to be a power above Government, feeds upon slander and falsehood, and perfectly revels in murder and blood- shed. Yet you and I, with our large and well appointed armies, can neither check nor control it. The suppression of th~ few mentioned by General Milroy would be like damumning a few of the tributaries of the Kanawha to stop the flood of the Mississippi. If General Milroy finds anybody selling mischievous matter within tIme sphere of his authority he might give him a good sound thrashing or put him in the stocks,~ but he cannot reach the editors who make money in New York or Chicago or Louisville by pandering to the tastes of certain cliques. My own opinion is that the freedom of th~ press to publish mischievous political matter, personal slander, and libel, and garbled statements of facts, like freedom of speech, can only be regulated by wise statute laws or by the laws of nature. As the press has now more power than the Congress, that makes our laws, we are now going through the expensive natural progress which will result in no law at all, but every man will defend his own property and reputation by the knife and pistol, and it is probable it will produce the result which history demonstrates in other similar cases, that the people will discover that it is better to cur- tail the liberty of the press as well as tIme liberty of speech, and devis Page 377 CITAJ?. L] CO1~RESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION.. 377 some proper punishment for falsehood and slander in newspapers as is partially the case with individuals. Each military commander subject to me may suppress all disorders and immoralities in the sphere of his command as he best may, but my belief is that the proper remedy is in punishing the men who publish malicious and false articles, if residing in his jurisdiction, or in punish- ing ignominiously the circulators of the books and papers containing the nuisance. A mere order of suppression simply excites the curi- osity of the thoughtless, who, through the mails, can easily defeat any effort at suppression. Thus, let the commanding officer at Nashville put in a public stocks any venders of obscene or libelous sheets, and give a good horsewhipping to any editor who would dare advise our soldiers to avoid their honorable contracts of enlistment, confiscate his press, and use his types for printing quartermasters blanks. This is all the notice I would take of such things at this epoch of the storm the unlicensed press has brought upon our country. I am, with respect, your obedient servant, W. T. SHERMAN, AJiajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, in the Field, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General H. S. GRANGER, Decatur: Keep the battery and send only the infantry of Colonel Howes bri- gade. They need not bring wagons; we have enough here. Send the balance of men and horses of the Ninth Ohio Cavalry, Colonel Ham- ilton, to Marietta, where he is with his regiment. Rousseaus com- iuiand lost but little in the McCook expedition, except in the person of Colonel Harrison, who is, I think, a prisoner and not killed as first re- ported. I have seen an intercepted rebel letter speaking of him as a prisoner. Nine hundred of General Stonemans men are in; balance, about 1,200, are still out, andl have a hope they will fetch up at Pensa- cola or somewhere, like General McCook. General Washburn dispatches from Memphis, August 2, that he is marching with a strong army on Columbus, Miss. He thinks Forrest died of his wound received in his fight with General A. J. Smith. Get your cavalry well together in as good order as possible, under some young active conumander, but I nave no idea now that any attempt will be made on Tennessee as long as General Washburn keeps things moving there, and I hammer away at Atlanta. All well. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. DECATUR, August 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN: The last train loaded with the Third Brigade has pulled out for Chat- tanooga. H. S. GRANGER, Brigadier- General Page 378 378 (CHAP. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. (Received 7.20 a. in.) General SCHOFIELD: I want to hear more noise on your flank. If General Palmer will not go into action, and General Jeff. Davis be present, tnrn over the orders to him, but time is precious, and that attack must be pushed to- day all the time. W. T. SIJEIRMAX, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, August 5, 18647.25 a. in. Major.General SHERMAN: General Palmer has this moment informed inc of your refusal to re- lieve him, and his final decision to go on the field and carry out my orders. He is now starting. I have been trying nearly all night to get things in working shape, but with very little progress. I hope now to get started. Johnson reached the Sandtown road last night, and Morgans skirmishers are on it this morning. He reports strong resist- ance. I will do all in my power to press the attack. Davis is not here, and if he were, Johnson is his senior. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Dispatch received. All right. Press that attack on the right. I will judge by the sound, and if I judge you are too hard pressed will order Generals Thomas and Howard to assault somewhere. Get some part of your command where you can reach easily the railroad with short- range guns, and then intrench a strong flank. It is worth a battle, and the closer the first advantages are followed up the better. The weakest point of the enemy must be mathematically at some point between Atlanta and East Point. Keep me often advised of progress, and I will come over any minute you say, but can better handle the whole army from here by the telegraph. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Now is the time for you to push. General Thomas is hard at work well on the other flank. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 379 CHAI~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 379 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Palmer is developing his troops along the enemys line, which is found to run nearly south from Hascalls right, an(l to be very strong. As soon as Palmer gets two divisions in position Johnson will make a rapid detour to the right, and try to strike the enemy in flank or in poiut of his line which is not held iu force. Cox will take Johnsons place as reserve on the right, and if Johnson fail Cox will assault immediately. This movement is to be made at 2 oclock. I think we are progressing pretty well, though slowly. Have captured about 200 prisoners. Gen- eral Howard asks me to inform you that his signal officer reports that a large column of cavalry is passing into Atlanta from the enemys left, probably one brigade. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch is received. The enemy appears to have a continuous line to our -right, behind the Sandtown road, but I presume held only by cavalry. I will get that, and then try to break toward the railroad. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Your dispatch is received. I have sent copies to each of the other army commanders, and ordered them to press forward and threaten all points. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have been listening since 2 p. m. for the sounds of battle on your flank. How are you progressing ~ W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: One of my staff reports nothing done on that flank, Is it possible you cannot move those troops ~ Let me know the truth, and, if neces- sary, I will withdraw them and substitute others. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding Page 380 380 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. L. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, August 5, 18644 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: Johnson is moving. Did not get started until after 3. I hear noth- ing from him but light skirmishing. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 18647.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. T. SHERMAN, Commanaing Military Division of the Miississippi: GENERAL: Your dispatch is received. 1 am compelled to acknowl- edge that I have totally failed to make any aggressive movement with the Fourteenth Corps, and have very little hope of being able to do better. The efforts of yesterday and to-day on this flank have been much worse than mere failures. I have ordered Johnson to relieve Hascall this evening, and propose to-morrow to take my own corps on- to the right and try to recover what has been lost by two days delay. The force may very likely be too small. Very respectftflly, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]Jliajor- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the .Field near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: - Very well; take your divisions and order in writing both Generals Baird and Morgan to follow your movement, either in support or in echelon, with Genera] Johnson to hold the t~te-de-pont, push out for the Sandtown road, and, if possible, a position where you can control the railroad. I will have General Palmer come up, and, if lie wants to resign, will consent; in which case General Johnson will renmain as corps commander until other promotions can be made. Try and make an early start; the delay may have deceived the enemy, unless he can see your force. Those divisions of the Fourteenth Corps are the strongest and best in the army, and all they want is a good leader. Give direction to your movement, and they will support your flank perfectly. I will see that Generals Thomas and Howard occupy the attention of the whole line. W. T. SHEliMAX, Major-General, Commanding. HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, August 5, 186412.45 a. m. Maj. Gen. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & C.: GENERAL: I have to acknowledge by your courier the receipt of tele- graphic note from Major-General Sherman, in which he intimates his decision of the question discussed by us on yesterday adverse to m Page 381 CHAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 381 views. I forward you an open note to Major-General Sherman, which you will read and will then oblige me by forwarding to him, as I am unable to direct my orderly to his headquarters.* I have the honor to inform you at the same time that, in my opinion, Brig. Gen. H. W. Johnson is the senior brigadier-general in this corps, and suggest that, until General Sherman shall otherwise direct, all orders for its commanding officer be addressed to him. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 18648.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Will you please inform your division commanders that you are acting under my orders to-day ~ In an emergency it may be necessary to give them orders directly. I have just heard from General Sherman. He desires us to press vigorously and endeavor to gain a point commanding the railroad to-day, and intrench it. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Major-General SCHOFIELD, August 5, 1864. Commanding: GENERAL: I have informed my division commanders that your or- ders given them through General Johnson are to be obeyed, and that you command them. I add that I am in good faith conforming for the day to General Shermans order, and regret that you should have ap- prehensions that I would do otherwise. Respectfully, J. M. PALMER. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO In the Field, Ga., August 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. J. M. PALMER, (Jommanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Permit me to assure you that I have not had the slight- est apprehension as to your sincere intention to carry out General Sher- mans orders. My request was based upon the information that General Baird had not been notified of the arrangement for the day, and my apprehension that you might not think to notify him. I simply desire to avoid misapprehension and consequent mistakes. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. See AHgnst 4, 11.55 p. in., p. 356 Page 382 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. 382 HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to forward you the following statement for your iuformation and guidance: Major- General Howard reports a heavy movement of the enemys trains toward our right, and great activity on part of rebel skirmishers on his (General Howards) front. This may indicate an evacnation by the rebels of Atlanta, or a preparation on their part to mass troops to at- tack our right, or more probably both; in which case the attack will be very heavy. The general directs that this information be given you that you may make such preparations as, in your judgment, appear necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. C. BARTLETT, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. (Same to Generals Hascall and Cox.) HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, August 5, 18645 a. m. Maj. Gem W. T. SHERMAN, Commanding: GENERAL: I would be obliged to you that in addition to, and as part of the order relieving mne, you would order me to report to the Adjutant- General, from Illinois, by letter. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, August 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. W T. SHERMAN, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: I am very greatly obliged to you for your expressions of kindness, but regret exceedingly that you decline to accede to my request to be relieved. I have joined General Schofield with a larger force than his own. I have seen much more service in the face of the enemy. I have, a commission much older in fact, whatever may be the form; and this question of rank-raising with me is so decided that I lose all practical coi~itrol over my corps, that, too, at a time of great prob- able difficulty. As you have declined to relieve me, I go, of course, to the field, and will do what I can to give success to the operations of the day, but I urge that you will reconsider your refusal to relieve me and permit inc at the close of the day to turn the command over to Brigadier-General Johnson, who is the senior brigadier-gemmeral in the corps. I am, very respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General, Commanding Page 383 Civ& r. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNI~N. 383 IIDQRs. MILITARY DrvIsIoN OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General PALMER, At the Front: I have communicated to General Thomas the substance of our former notes and messages, anti have received the following reply by tele- graph: I regret to hear that Palmer has taken the course he has, and as I know he in- teiids to offer his resignation as soon as he can properly do so I recommend that his application be granted. Now, if General Schofield has a major-generals commission going back to equal date with yours, though confirmed subsequemit, with re- troactive effect, lie ranks you by reason of former superior commis- sion, and if you resign because you measure your number of men as greater than his, and your services in battle as giving you greater right to command, you commit the mistake of substituting your own individ- ual opinion over the established law and military usage. The special assignment of General Schofield to the command of a separate army and department shows that he enjoys the confidence of the President, even above his mere lineal rank. If you want to resign, wait a few days and allege some other reasonone that will stand the test of time. Your future is too valuable to be staked on a mistake. Your case clearly falls under an old Article of War: When two or more commands happen together, the officer highest in rank commands the whole. General Schofield ranks you by his commission, and it would not do for military men to discuss the nice question of how far back the President and Senate may give effect to a commission. I again ask you not to disre- gard the friendly advice of such men as General Thomas and myself, for you cannot misconstrue our friendly feelings toward you. I am, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, August 5, 186412.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. ~T T. SHERMAN, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: Your note by courier and duplicate by telegraph have just reached me. I assure you I am unaffectedly grateful to you for the personal direction this correspondence is assumimig and for your frmendly expressions toward me. I beg to assure you that I am of opinion that the ultimnate decision of the question under discussion is not as free from doubt as you seem to suppose, but there are arguments more potent than even would be the certainty that I was right in my construction of the law. These are, that possibly mny withdrawal from comnmnand might occasion inconveniemice, and that the friemidly advice of yourself and General Thomas is against me. For these reasons I request that l)ending active operations moy application to be relieved be regarded as withdrawn. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General Page 384 384 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. General PALMER: I would like to have you to come and see me as early in the morning as convenient. If you think of resigning it is probably better it should be now, as I fear the intention lessens your interests in our opera- tions. Should you agree with me in this, turn over the command to General Johnson, and then you can assign as a reason anything you prefer. I would suggest that you put it on the ground of a prior re- solve as soon as the campaign was over, and it having settled down into a quasi siege, you request now to be relieved and to be permitted to go to Illinois; or, if you prefer it, the reason that you considered your ratik superior to General Schofields. To be honest, T Inust say the op- erations on that flank yesterday and to-day have not been satisfactory. Yet I will not say that there has been want of energy or skill, but events have not kept pace with my desires. W. T. SIIEI~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 186410.05 p. m. [General SHERMAN:] GENERAL: I confess my surprise at the contents of your telegraphic note, this moment received. Waiving any statement of what were my purposes and intentions in respect to quitting the service, I will frankly say that if I were in your place, at the head of an army, I would require of my subordinates the faithful and energetic performance of their respective duties, and ifmy plans failed of execution, I would ascertain the cause and pnnish the delinquent vigorously, as no man is to be regarded when contrasted with [the] great cause of the conutry. I am hot surprised that you are dissatisfied with the operations of the army on this flank on yesterday and to-day, for I am also dissatisfied, and think much more ought to have been done, and readily confess myself in some measure responsible. Still I do eariiestly protest against your inference of a want of interest in our operations. On yesterday you were present, and I will not speak of what I said or did. To-day I exerted myself more, I think, than any officer on the field to carry out General Schofields orders, until the afternoon, near night, I found that aside from Bairds handsome operation in the forenoon nothing would be accomplished. I am to blame, however, in this, that I have not done as you obviously intend doing in my casehold some one responsible for the failures. I think I could select the proper objects of responsi- bility more accurately than you have done in selecting me. I am so well convinced that this campaign has been lengthened out by the negli- gence and inattention of officers, and will be hereafter lengthened and drawn out from the same cause, that I accept your intimation to me not as offensive (though I think unjust), but as a sign of a purpose on your part, in future, to inquire into the causes of our almost daily failures to meet your avowed expectations, and when the cause is discovered to apply the correction. If you will do this justly, without favor or affection, I will venture my life that you will be astonished at the result. I will ai- cept your offer to relieve me, not upon tIme ground that your suspicion of a want of interest is well founded, nor that I am in any other than th Page 385 cRAP. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 385 manner already admitted responsible for the unsatisfactory results on this flank, but upon the I)rinciple that as you are responsible to the country for this campaign every subordinate officer employed ought upou the first intimation from you of a want of confidence step out of the way promptly and feel that he is serving the country in doing so. Pardon this long letter. I will call upon you to-morrow morning and present a formal application to be relieved. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- General. HDQRS. THIRb DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Utoy Greek, August 5, 18G47.20 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio: SIR: Colonel Walker, commanding brigade in General Bairds divis- ion, gives me the following, as obtained from rebel deserters and pris- oners, who appeared candid: The rebel line has a large re-entrant angle along Generals Ilascalls and Bairds fronts; it then refuses, but follows near the creek and the Sandtown road all the way to the river. For about a mile to Hascalls right the trenches are held by infantry, beyond thali by cavalry. Immediately in this front they report the lines very strong, having, as they say, three lines of intrenchments and with at least twenty pieces of artillery within half a mile. They seemed pos- itive that the trenches were continued to the river or near it, though inferior in strength, as soon as they pass the infantry line. The enemy made a little brush at Bairds skirmish line this morning, but it amounted to nothing. General Hascall says he saw General Baird a few minutes ago, and that General Baird says he is without orders this morning. Very respectfully, & c., J.D.COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., August 5, 186410.45 a. m. Brig. Gen. J. P. Cox, Comdg. Third Division, Twenty-third Army Corps: GENERAL: Baird and Morgan are developing their lines along those of the enemy and expect to be in position and intrenched by 1 oclock. Johnson is then to make a rapid detour to the right and endeavor to strike the enemys flank or a point where his line is weak. You will move toward the right so as to take Johnsons place as reserve and at the same time make an assault if you find any point near the right where success seems probable. If Johnson succeeds your assault will probably not be necessary. If he fail, his effort will probably draw off some troops and thus increase your chances. I am willing youi should be rather rash than prudent in tjiis case. Johnson is to start promptly at 2 oclock. Look out for an attack from the enemy on your right. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General, Commanding~ I~ ILVOL XXXYIII~ PT Page 386 [CHAr. L. THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. 386 HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Near Utoy Creek, August 5, 186411.30 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio: Your dispatch ordering me to the right is received, and I will put the division in motion at once. J. P. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Col. ISRAEL GARRARD, Commanding Seventh Ohio Cavalry: COLONEL: The commanding general directs that you relieve the pickets of General Palmers escort now on the road that General John- son moved out on, and picket that road, as well as the road to the right. Please relieve the pickets of General Palmers escort as soon as possi- ble to-night. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Jlfliajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. ARMY AND DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 5, 186410.30 a. m. [General SCHOFIELD:] GENERAL: I find the line occupied by your brigade much more ex- tended than I thought yesterday evening. It will take nearly, if not quite, all of my reserve to fill it. Please not remove the brigade until you absolutely need it. When you do so need it I will take care of my- self. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. P. S.Signal officer reports large columns of cavalry passing into town from enemys left flank; probably one brigade. Please notify General Sherman. 0. 0. II., Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, Ga., August 5, 186411.15 a. m. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HoWARD, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: Your dispatch is received. I will not take the brigade away until absolutely necessary. I do not expect to need it to-day un- less to protect my right rear along the Howells Ferry road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, - Major- General, Commanding Page 387 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 387 HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. iXI. CORSE, Commanding & cond Dirision: General Howar(I desires a demonstration made during the afternoon, while the fighting is going on at the right. He thinks, however, the l)utting in of the new line may attract the attention of the enemy. Get your working parties out, support them well, and occasionally use ar- tillery against the enemy. If you discover the enemy leaving or mate- rially weakening their front, take advantage of it immediately and gain any advantage you can. Respectfully, your obedient servant, G.M. DODGE, Major- General, Commanding. BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., August 5, 1864. lVIaj. Gen. G. M. DODGE, Commanding Left Wing, AS~ixteenth Army Corps: The folloWing dispatch has just been received from General Giles A. Smith through headquarters Seventeenth Army Corps: The pickets report heavy movements of trains on our right. The rebel skirmishers are very active along the whole line. It may be an evacnation, or they may be massing their forces on Schofield. The major;general commanding requests that you direct your skir- mishers to be on the qui vire and unusually vigilant in the morning, and should the rebel skirmishers show any disposition to retire to fol- low them up vigorously. General Logan has been directed to fire from one of his batteries upon the eiiemys position oiie gun every ten minutes during the night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Before A~ tianta, Ga., August 5, 1864. Maj. Gen. F. P. BLAIR, Commanding & venteenth Army Corps: The report of General Giles A. Smith has been received. The gen- eral requests that you direct your skirmishers to be on the qui vive and unusually vigilant in the morning, and should the rebel skirmish- ers show any disposition to retire to follow them up vigorously. Gen- eral Loganhas been directed to fire from one of his batteries upon the enemys position one gun every ten minutes during the night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 388 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. 388 JIDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, August 5, 1864. Maj. Gem JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding iF~fteenth Army Corps: The following telegram is just received, and corps commanders are requested to act in accordance with suggestions therein contained: Generals TnoMAS and HOWARD: I hear Schofield engaged well off to the right. Always push lip against Atlanta at the weakest points in your front assaulting parties, who may (luring an attack at the right gain one of their redoubts or salients, which will settle the question quick; at all events will keep employed a large force to hold their lines. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARIETTA, August 5, 1864. Capt. L. M. DAYTON: I sent all the men of my command that were fit for duty to Roswell Factory, as directed by General Sherman. I have no further news from the remainder of General Stonemans command. My horses I sent to Roswell are much broken down, and feet worn out for want of shoes. I have more transportation than is necessary, and can have 200 or 300 more men for duty by turning over pack-saddles and mounting on the pack animals. Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, of General Stonemans com~ mand, will report in person this morning to General Sherman. S. ADAMS, Colonel First Kentucky Cavalry. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 5, 18649.30 p. m. Major ECKERT: Operations to-day complete failure, or worse. Schofield and Palmer were ordered to carry a point which would command railroad south of Atlanta, while the other corps made active diversions in favor of the movement. The attacking force moved early, and the whole line was en a ed, but when Schofield and Palmer found the enemy they stopped and intrenched. There they stay yet, while they make no progress, and the rebels have time to mass mcii and throw up earth-works, or to evacuate as they choose. They are very actively doing one or the other now; which it is, daylight will tell. Had we done anything to-day I should think they were on the wing. ~-. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MIss., In the Field, near Atlanta, No. 52. ) August 5, 1864. I. Brig. Gen. John McArthur is hereby assigned to the command of the district of country embracing Kenesaw, Marietta, IRoswell, and the west bank of the Chattahoochee River and the sweet Water Page 389 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. CHAP. L.] 389 First. He is charged with guarding the railroad from Big Shanty to the Chattahoochee and protecting our stores at Marietta and Vinings. Second. He will personally visit the points of interest and distribute the troops embraced in his command according to his judgment, and cause redoubts and block-houses to be at once made to give additional security to the railroad and places of deposit. Third. He will cause camps to be prepared, one for each of the armies in the field, where he will assemble the detachments of recruits and convalescents arriving, and sick and discharged men going to the rear, and give dispatch to their movements. Fourth. He will report to and receive instructions directly from these headquarters. II. In pursuance of orders f.om Lieutenant.c-eneral C-rant, command. ing the Armies of the United States, the Tenth iRegiment Illinois In- fantry Volunteers is hereby transferred from the Department and Army of the Cumberland to the Department of the Tennessee, and the commanding officer will report to Maj. C-en. 0. 0. howard, commanding. III. In order that the relative strength of the armies may remain nii- changed, the Seventeenth Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry is hereby transferred from the Department of the Tennessee to the De- partment of the Cumberland, and the commanding officer will rel)ort to Maj. C-en. C-eorge H. Thomas, commanding. By order -of Maj. C-en. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide.de. Camp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 214. ) Near Atlanta, Ga.,Au gust 5, 1864. * * * * * * * VI. Brig. Gen. William C-rose is assigned to the command of the Third Brigade, First Division, Fourth Army Corps, and will report ac- cordingly. * * * * * * * By command of Major-C-eneral Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant. General. CIRCULAR.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ca., August 5, 1864. Brigadier-C-eneral Johnson will advance, relieve Brigadier-C-eneral Hascalls troops near the mill, and at once strengthen the works so that lie can hold them with a light line. Brigadier-C-eneral Baird will strengthen his works and obstruct the front so that he can hold with a light line and withdraw troops for his reserve. Brigadier-C-eneral Morgan will also strengthen his line as ordered above and be ready to hold with a smuall force and assist in the offensive operations of to. morrow. By command of Maj. C-en. J. M. Palmer: A. C. MCCLURC-, 6~aptain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 390 390 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. CHAP. L. SPECIAL FIELD ORDER8, IIDQRS. AnMY ov THE Onio, No. 72. Near Atlanta, Ua., August 5, 1864. * * * * * * * III. General Palmer will push forward and firmly establish the right of his line this evening. General Cox will cover General Palmers right and be ready for aggressive operations early in the morning. As soon as General Johnson returns froni his demonstration this evening, he will relieve General ilascall and occupy the trenches. General Hascall on being relieved will move ander cover to the rear and bivouac for the night. At 5 a. in. he will move to the right and take position in reserve to General Cox, prepared to support hill in his movement. General Palmer will thin his line as much as practicable, so as to ob- tain a strong reserve for aggressive operations on his right. IV. To-morrow, the 6th instant, a vigorous effort will be made to turn the enemys left or break his line near the Sandtown road. The troops will be prepared to move at 6 a. in., but will wait orders to com- mnence the movement. General Cox in advance will press forward in a southerly direction until he reaches the Sandtown road, and then along that road, or on more favorable ground not far to the right or left, until he strikes the enemy~s line or flank, the latter to be preferred if it does not require too great separation from the rest of the army. If General Cox deems it practicable to carry the enemy~s position, he will attack without unnecessary delay; otherwise lie will report the facts and await further orders. General ilascall will follow in close supporting distance from General Cox, and will cover his right during the movement. General Morgan will connect the skirmishers of the troops now in position with those of General Cox in motion, and move forward with the latter, supporting his skirmishers as far as may be necessary. He will also hold his division in readiness to move promptly, as may be ordered during the day. Generals Baird and Johnson will hold the I)resent lines of the Fourteenth and Twenty-third Corps, and keep up a steady pressure with, artillery and skirmishers during the early part of the day. General Baird will also be prepared to move out promptly in support of the contemplated attack, as may be ordered at amiy time during the day. In case of General Bairds moyemnent, General Johnson will, unless otherwise ordered, throw back his right into the t~te-de-pont constructed by General ilascall and hold that position. All trains will be kept in rear of Utoy Creek. Colonel Gar- rards cavalry will scout on all roads leading to the right and right rear of the infantry during the day. The troops will be kept well massed and in hand, ready to meet an attack from any direction. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, 2liliajor and Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., August 6, 18641.45 p. rn. Major-General SHEn1~IAN: An order by the President, under the act of Congress for the military possession of the Northwestern Hailroad, has been issued, and will be forwarded you by the Adjutant-General. Do not imagine that we are impatient of your progress; instead of considering it slow, we rega~rd it rapid, brilliant, and successful beyond our expectations. Take your time, and do your work in your own way. This Department is only anxious to afford you every assistance within its power. TX M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 391 CORRESPONDENCE, F CHAP. LI 3~1 WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, August 6, 1864. Special orders relating to the Northwestern Railroad, from Nashville to Reyuoldsburg: Whereas the exclusive use of the Northwestern Railroad, from Na~h- yule to Reynoldsburg, is necessary for the military operations under command of Major-General Sherman, the President does thetefore order and direct that Major-General Sherman take military poSse5siou of the said Northwestern Railroad, its stock, equipmetits, appendages, and appurtenances for the exchisive use of the United States, and hold~ use, manage, an(1 eniploy the same by his officers, ag~ents, superintend~ ents, and employ& ~s exclusively for the use aforesaid so long, and to such extent, as in his judgment such exclusive use is required for mili- tary operations, or until further orders, and that all conflicting orders and authority be, and they are hereby, revoked and annulled. By order of the President: B. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Brigadier-General JOHNSON, August 6, 1864. Military Governor, & c., Nashville, Tenn.: On the direct application of General Sherman and his representation that the exclusive nse of the Northwestern Railroad, from Nashville to Reynoldsburg, is necessary for the success of his military operations, the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress, has, by order of this date, anthorized and directed him to take military possession of said railroad, its rolling-stock, equipment, appendages, and appurte- nances for excinsive military use, and revoked all prior ~iind conflicting orders and authority. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 6, 18643 p. m. (Received 11.50 a. in. 7th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: General Palmer has resigned his command of the Fourteenth Army Corps, and General Thomas has relieved him of the command. General Thomas recommends the promotion of General Jeff. C. Davis as a major-general and assignment to the command of the corps. In the event the President will not consent to this, General Thomas asks the promotion and assignment of General J. M. Brannan. I approve his recommendations, and ask a speedy return. W. T. SHERMAN, - Major- General. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 6, 18649p. m, (Received 5,30 p. in. 7th~) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: We have now (leveloped our line along with the enemy from the Augusta railroad, on our left, to Utoy Post-Office, on our right, and th Page 392 392 THE ATLANTA CAMPAiGN. rcHAP. L. enemy faces us in force at all points with equal force and superior works. General Schofield tried to break through at a point near our right with a brigade (General Reillys), but his men were caught in the entanglement and lost probably 500. We have skirmished heavily along the whole line, using artillery freely, but have made no impres- sion. 1 will continue to work to the right to find the extreme flank and threaten the railroad, if possible, to draw him out of Atlanta or force him to attack us; but our line is already too extended and weak. By means of his militia (of which he has the whole poI)ulatioml of Georgia) lie is enabled to use his three regular corps as reserves. Our loss to-day will foot up 1,000. 1 will soon need re-enforcements, and if you can replace General A. J. Smith at Memphis with negro or fresh troops I would order him here via l)ecatur. He must now be en route for Columbus, Miss. I have called forward a brigade from Decatur. 1 am now convinced that General Stonemnan surrendered near Macon with 700 of his men, ordering two small brigades to break out and get in. One (Colonel Adams), with 900 men, is in, but their time is out and they will be discharged. The other brigade (Caprons) I fear was scattered and picked up in detail. His entire loss will be abaut 1,300. General MeCooks loss is 500. Damage done road, cars, and bridges was very large, but the enemy run ears into Atlanta from Macon. W. T. SHERMAX, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. General THOMAS: General Palmer is just started for your headquarters. When you have taken official action on his application, let me know it, that I may urge the speedy appointme~iit of General Jeff. Davis to the command. General Johnson has not the ability or vigor necessary to so large a command. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, (Jomilianding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 6, 186412 mm. Major General SHERMAN: The enemy have been feeling our lines from Williams right toward the left, apparently to see whether we have weakened our lines or not. The skirmishing on the left is probably for the same purpose, but it will be well to ascertain whether he intends more serious work, which Stanley can do by sendiiig Garrard to feel his flanks. Howard thinks he is trying to get out of Atlanta clear. That may be, but Stanley must be watchful and not give ground until he can see lie intends to attack him, then have hiiu withdraw gradually to new line and let him come on until he becomes well entangled in the abatis before opening fire on him, but not leave present position until he thinks it absolutely neces- sary. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. (Copy to General Stanley. Page 393 CHAP. L.1 COR1~ESFONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 393 HDQRS. MILITARY DiVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General THOMAS: Your dispatch is received. Your instructions to General Stanley are exactly right. Only hold fast that left flank as long as possible, because I think the eneuiy may be repairing the Augusta road and it is impor- taut we control it from our left flank. General Stanley should fight for it hard, and 1 dont believe the enemy will venture an attack as long as they know we are working on the other flank. General Schofield is making slow but sure progress. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General THOMAS: General Schofield reports at 12.30 that he had crossed the main road, the Sandtown, and found the enemys line. lie had attacked but did not succeed, but will repeat it again farther to the right. Order your batteries to be demonstrative and engage the enemys at all points along your line dtiring the (lay. We cannot hear the sound of his musketry. W. T. SHERMAN, (Same to General Howard.) Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 6, 18642 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: General Palmer has decided to go, and I have relieved him from the command. of the Fourteenth Army Corps. I respectfully recommend Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis as major-general U. S. Volunteers, and request that he be assigned to the command of the Fourteenth Corps. Should there be any objection to General Davis I respectfully recommend the promotion of Brig. Gemi. J. M. Brannan, with the request that he be assigned to the counnand of the Fourteenth Corps. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General THOMAS: General Schofield has been at work to-day with his two divisions and holds General Johnson in support. lie has just finished working up his measurements and locates himself at the forks of the Utoy Creek, two miles west of East Point. Though our line is extended, we cannot do better than to control and strengthen by defenses our pres- ent front, and let General Schofield work so as to threaten East Point. I do not believe the enemy can defend so long a line, an dhemay be forced to choose between the two, Atlanta and East Point. Un Page 394 394 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN~ [CHAI~. L less lie ha~ repaired the Augusta road, of which there are no signs, or unless he can (irive back General Johnsons flank, which controls that road, he will be compelled to give up Atlanta to secure East Point. General Schofield asks for a couple of topographical engineers. He lost his only one yesterday. Can you spare him one or two. If so, order them to report to him. He tried to break through the enemys lines by a brigade to-day, but failed, losing 500 men. Instead of going round East Point I would prefer the enemy to weaken so we may break through at some point, and wish you to continue to make such an effort. I will instruct General Howard to do the same about the head of Utoy Creek, his right. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HOWARDS HoUSE, August 6, 1864. Uapt. C. II. CASE: All quiet on this flank. Can see but few of the enemy in their works. Cannot see as many pieces of artillery as I did yesterday. Shells from the Twentieth Corps burst near the center of the city. A. F. BERRY, signal Officer. HOWARDS HOUSE, August 6, 18649 a. m. Capt. C. R. CASE, Chief $ignal Officer, Department of the Cumberland: Can hear heavy musketry and artillery on our right. Can see no movement of troops on this flank. Rebels just threw a shell at my station; but it fell a little short. A. F. BERRY. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, FOURTH ARMY CORPS, August 6, 18647.30 a. m. (Received 8.30 a. Ia.) Major-General STANLEY Commanding Fourth Army Corps: The rebels are evidently hunting for our left in considerable force; they made an attack on the left of my picket-line, but were held in check; they are moving still to our left, and heavy skirmishing going on on my left. I hope that the cavalry will stand. Would suggest that they be re-enforced froum some other quarter. Respectfully, NATHAN KIMBALL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HOWARDS HOUSE, August 6, 186412.30 p. m. Brig. Gen. W. D. WIIIPPLE: No attack excepting coming suddenly from the direction of the match factory on the Roswell road could aff~ct my position. I have two regi- ments guarding the breast.works on the Roswell road. D. S. STANLEY, Major. General Page 395 CnAp. LI CORUESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 18618.45 p. m, General NEWTON, Commanding AS~eeond Division: GENERAL: In accordance with the dispatches (official copies of which are herewith inclosed), you will strengthen your skirmish line, and threaten the enemy. Also make a show of your infantry in the main lines, and such movements as may lead the enemy to suppose that you are about to make a general advance and attack. By order of Major-General Stanley: J. S. FULLERTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Same to Generals Wood and Kimball.) STANLEYS HEADQUARTERS, General WHIPPLE, August 6, 1864. Chief of Staff: Is the demonstration upon the enemys line to be one of artillery alonel D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HDQRS. I)EPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, 6omrnanding Fourth Army C~orps: The gen~ral commanding directs that you threaten the enenmy with. infantry without moving- on his lines. By command of Major-General Thomas: HENRY STONE, Assistant Adjutant- GeneraL. (Copies to Generals Wood and Newton.) HOWARDs HOUSE, A~#~sf U, 1864. Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE: The demonstratioh on our left was made by Maney~s brigade, of Cheathams division. We learn from a deserter that this brigade is~ posted south of the railroad, and that they are very anxious to learn what we have here. We had 1 man killed and our picket-line slightly forced back. It is now re-established. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General.. (Copy to General Sherman. Page 396 396 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. rOHAP. L. STATION OBSERVATION, August 6, 18648.45 a. m. Capt. A. K. TAYLOR, Acting Signal Officer, Commanding: CAPTAIN: There seems to be more men about the enemys works than yesterday. No other change that I can see. Occasioi~aL artillery shot on the left from our guns. It is too smoky to see very well. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. HDQRS. CHIEF OF CAVALRY, 1)EPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. M. MUCOOK, Commanding First Cavalry Division, Marietta, Ga.: The general commanding directs that you move with your command to vicinity of railroad bridge. The commanding officer at Marietta ~~i] send all men belonging to your division, if they arrive there, to the bridge. The Fourth Tennessee Cavalry gone to Decatur, Ala.; the Ninth Ohio can get its own snpplies, as-it does not belong to your division. By order, & c.: DAVID F. HOW, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. OFFICERS PRISON, Macon, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major.General SHERMAN, Commanding Division of the Mississippi: I have the honor of making the following report: On the 30th of July, near Newnan, Ga., General McCook ordered inc to dismount two of my regiments to fight the eneniy OIl foot. The Fourth Tennes- see and Fifth Iowa were dismounted, when I dismounted, directing my orderly to follow inc with my horse. We drove the enemy for one mile through the woods. I there found the enemy in overwhelming num- bers in front, and that they were passing in my rear between my line and the main line of our force. We here commenced retreating and fighting the enemy in our rear. My horse had failed to come up with ine After three personal encounters with the enemy I was separated from my force, and, suffering with cramp in my right leg, I was forced to surrender to a party of the enemy then confronting me. Six of my line officers, 4 of my surgeons, and about 50 of my men were taken with me. They are all retained as prisoners. I am in fine health, not wounded, as reporteff. T. ~. IIARHISON, C~olonel, 6~ommanding Cavalry. I)ECATUR, ALA., August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Infantry brigade Sixteenth Army Corps all gone. Received a dis- patch last night that sixty horses were coming for battery. Unde Page 397 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 397 these circumstances shall I forward the battery0? I have no particular use for it here, but it is in poor condition. All right about Parson Johnson, and Mead reported with 250 men north of the river, b~tweeu Flint and Paint Rock. Anderson after them with about 400 of his regi- ment. I dont believe Forrest dead, nor expect him here, though some of his men have very recently been killed by my scouting parties in Middle Tennessee. Hammer at Atlanta; we rejoice at every blow. R. S. GRANGER, Brigadier- General. DECATUR, ALA., August 6, 1864. Brigadier-General WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Major-General Sherman having asked what troops can be spared from this district, I have notified him and Major-General Rousseau that the Tenth Indiana Cavalry could be replaced by a regiment of colored troops if there was one disposable to relieve it. Colored troops will do for the block-houses. As there is no probability of the Ninth Ohio or the Fourth Tennessee returning to this district, I do not think it advisable to part with more cavalry. I have the honor to re- pbrt the Third Brigade, Sixteenth Corps, as being relieved from duty here and now en route for the front~ Rousseau. , same reported to Major.General R. S. GRANGER, Brigadier- General. SCHOFIELDS HEADQUARTERS, August 6, 18645.45 a. m. General SHERMAN: Please inform me if there are any changes along the line this morn- ing before I start out. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: No changes are reported along the line. Use all the force you ran, and dont make too wide a circnit. I will reiterate to Generals Thomas and Howard to occupy the attention of the enemy along every yard of our lines. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, In the Field, August 6, 18648.20 a. m. General SHERMAN: We are about starting. I will keep you advised of progress. Our skirmishers have been pushed well forward, and find lines apparently strong in front of our right. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- Ueneral Page 398 398 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HDQR5. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlai~a, Ga., August 6, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Keep me well advised to-day, that I may co-operate from all points. I want to know when you are in secure possession of the big Sand- town rOa(l and then of the railroad. W. T. SHERMAX, lliajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch is received. I have a division covering the Saudtown road, where it debouches from the enemys line, and hard at work in- trenching. All my troops are well in hand to meet an attack. Hood cant hit nie without crossing the main Utoy south of the road and passing around some distance through a forest. J think very likely he will try it, and rather hope lie will. If he does not, I propose to try ta break the salient of his lines between the forks of Utoy, and theii work toward East Point, with my right resting on the main creek. J. M. SCHOFIELD, ]Ift~or. General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: I have got a force across the main road, and have made a vigorous assault upon what appears to be the enemys main line, but without success. Our loss is quite severe. I am about to try it again farther to the right. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, inmear Atlanta, August 6, 1864.~ General SCHOFIELD: Your dispatch is received. Go on and do the best the case admits of. I am sure both Generals Thomas and Howard will give full em- ployment to all the forces on their front. If we can reach a point on the right, where our shot will command the railroad, then we can afford to rest. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: In my movement this morning I made a circuit to the right far enough to strike beyond what appeared to be, and probably was, yes Page 399 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 399 terday the enemys hank, but found intrenchments of ordinary strength with extensive entanglements in front. Reilly assaulted gallantly and energetically, and I believe with more than ordiiiary confidence of success on the part of himself and mew But the obstructions were so great that it was found impossible to reach the parapet. Reillys loss is about 500 men, including many valuable officers. After this failure, I made a much larger circuit to the right for the purpose of reaching the enemys flank or a point of his line not protected by abatis. I struck the point where the Sandtown road crosses the maui Utoy Creek. Here the enemys line makes a sharp salient, bcnding back along the north bank of the creek. TIme mnain line was prolonged by cavalry, with artillery, toward the Chattahoochee. General Hascall sent two brigades, under General Cooper, to clear this flank, which he did by crossing the creek, but too late for any further ~perations. We are intrenching the ground we have gaimied, and will be ready for work again in the morning. The losses in Coxs and ilascalls divisions are probably not more than 1,000 mnen. I have not thought it advisable to put in more men than the Twenty-third Corps to-day, except imi muakimig demonstrations to draw the enemy from the points of attack. General Johnson has beemi with mne during the day and has promptly exe- cuted all mny orders. Colonel Warner, who left me late this even- ing, can explain to you more fully our situation. If you take the blue colored map of Atlanta and vicinity, the forks of the Utoy Creek south- east of the town of Utoy is, I believe, ilascalls position. I will de- termuine more accurately to-night. J. A. SCHOFIELl), Major- General. HDQRs. MILITARY Divisiox OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Augu8t 6, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: I have your dispatch. There is no alternative but for yon to con- tinue to work on that hank with as much caution as possible, and it is possible the enemy may attack us, or draw out. He must defend that road. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: We are working hard for the big road. The ground is very rough. I am confident of getting the road, but doubt my ability to either reach the enemys left or break his lines, but will give it a fair trial. J. M. SCHOFIELI), Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The rough measurements we have been able to mnake to-day l)lace me much farther south and east than I had supposed. Contracting the Page 400 400 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. I. as much as possible, my right is about due west from East Point, and not more thau two miles from it. If this be true I have struck the dank of the defenses of East Point. You will readily recognize the position on the blue map. If possible, Ii wish you would send me one or two good topographical engineers for a few days. The only one I had was killed day before yesterday. It is very important now for me to have accurate surveys. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITAHY DIVISION OF THE Mis~issi~pi, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Ucueral ScHOFIELD: I will try to send you some engineers to-morrow. I will have to bor- row of other armies. Continue to work to-morrow in such a manner as to best threaten the railroad at or below East Point, and keep your own and the Fourteenth Corps united, so as to defend yourselves against the enemy should he let go Atlanta amA shift to his commu- iuications. If you can threaten that road he is bound to choose, and you know what choice he will make. I advise you to see to-night that the right, by which the big Sandtown road comes out from the enemy to yonr- line, is well covered, for he will, if at all, sally by well-known roads. The valleys of the two forks of Utoy can easily be held by a thin line and an entanglement of timber. General Thomas will con- tinue to press Atlanta up the valley of Proctors Creek, and General Howard by Utoy. The militia, by which Hood holds his long lines of intrenchmnents, are worthless, save for that purpose, but they enable him to use his good troops, distributed, doubtless, by brigades, to rush to threatened points. I dont think he will mass them all, unless he gives up Atlanta and throws his force at one move to Fast Point. If you be at the forks of the umain Utoy, two miles west of East Point, your cavalry should cross the upper fork, and picket the crossing at Utoy Post-Office. You should also open a more direct road to where your headquarters are, which serves as a key point. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, August 6, 18641.15 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: From the contents of a telegraphic note received a few hours ago, through your office from General Sherman, I imifer he has made up his mind to relieve me from the command of this corps, upon grounds, however, totally different from those involved in the discus- sions of yesterday. He intimates such a purpose, and directs me to turn over the command to Brigadier-Gemmeral Johnson. I send your order to General J[ohnson] with the information above. If anything shall occur to leave me in command, I will see that all thats l)ossible is done to effect the objects of to-morrows movements. Respectfully, JOHN M. PALMER, Major- ~cneral Page 401 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNirnN. 401 HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. [General SCHOFIELD:] GENERAL: When I left you this evening I told you that I could re- place General Morgans division, but I find after filling the gap between Howard and myself that I have only five small regiments left; with these I could replace one brigade. This, with his reserve brigade, will give you two brigades upon which you can rely to assist in any move- inent contemplated on the right. In this calculation I assume that the present line is to be held. The gap proves to be lunch greater than T first supposed. If you can, please telegraph Howard that I connect closely with him. Respectfally, your obedient servant, R. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General. AUGUST 6, 186410 a. m. Brigadier-General REILLY, ing, ~c.: After reflecting on the statement of the guide, T incline to the opin. ion that the movement through the strip of wood, and so up on the ridge, may be made with very strong prospect of success. If it looks so to you also, you may support Colonel Mottley very closely with the regiment, and bring down the whole brigade earlier than we contem- plated when I left you. Once on the ridge, we may push rapidly and strongly to the left along it, and since I left you I have learned that General Morgan will probably be able to swing forward and connect by a cross-ridge as soon as you get fairly astride of the one you are going for. It seems to be a spur of a main ridge running along from General Morgans front. J. P. COX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Utoy Creek, August 6, 18642.30 p. m. Col. J. S. CASEMENT, Commanding ~S~econd Brigade: General Ilascall is trying to find the flank of the enemy farther to the right. General Schofield directs that you make a demonstration in his favor. Do this by advancing a line of skirmishers up toward the works so as to keep the enemy in the belief that we shall again assault them there. Take advantage of the same opportunity to have all oui~ wounded and dead brought off that can possibly be reached. Make it a point of honor to leave as few of ours to fall into the rebel hands as possible. Very respectfully, & c., J. D. COX, Brigadier- General, Gommaudin9. Ti~ I~voL xxxyuj, PT Page 402 402 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CRAP. L, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TilE Orno, In the Field, Ga., A agust 6, 1864. Lient. Col. G. W. SCHOFIELD, Chief of Artillery and Ordnance: COLONEL: The commanding general directs that you scud Colonel Barters brigade out the road taken by General Johnson, and let him occupy the right of the works this side of Utoy Creek. inform Gen- eral Howard. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. M. WHERRY, Major and Aide-dc- Camp. iJEADQIJARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO In the Field, Ga., August 6, 1864. Maj. W. W. WHEELER, Prorost -Mars hal- General, Army of the Ohio: MAJOR: Colonel Barters brigade is in reserve in the works occupied by General Johnson yesterdaythe extreme right of the line occupied last night, right resting ou the south bauk of Utoy Creek, connecting with the troops now in line by his left. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. M. WHERRY, Major and Aide-dc- Camp. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 6, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Signal officer reports he has seen over 100 wagons moving out of At- lanta in a southwest direction, while there were not more than ten going in. As far as he can see, enemys troops do not appear at all harassed or excited. 0.0. HOWARD, Major. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General HOWARD: I have no idea that the enemy will leave Atlanta until compelled to do so. General Schofield is making slow but sure progress on our right, but I expect each minute to hear him heavily engaged. Study your front so that you can keep employed on it as much of the enemy as possible, that General Schofield will have the less to deal with. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 6, 1864. Major-General ShERMAN: I have directed General Dodge to move forward his line to connect with line of Seventeenth Corps, which has just been constructed. General Logan hi~ts reli~v~d the brigade of Schofields on the right, an Page 403 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 403 thus thoroughly obstructing the space through which the enemy could come from that quarter. 1 have requested Johnson to swing his left up on to a pine ridge just in front of it. All these movements will occupy the enemy, it being uncertain what we are really doing. 0. 0. HOWARD, ill ajor- General. HDQRS. MILITARY lihvisio~ OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General HOWARD: General Schofield tried to break through the enemys lines about Cherburg, but failed, losing about 500 men. He is now down on maiu Utoy at a point about two miles from East Point. This extension weakens our lines, but we must do this or assault. I will order him with due caution to continue to threaten East Point and his lines of communication. We know he will let go the former. General Thomas will continue to strengthen his line by works, and shorten it when pos- sible, and I want you to do the same. Gain ground to the front when- ever you can, thereby diminishing the length of your line, and being that much nearer the enemy is a more dangerous threat to him, pre- venting him detaching as against General Schofield, unless he lets go Atlanta. I have an idea you could work up some on your right along Utoy. I will ride your lines to-morrow and see you. General Dodge will have another brigade to-morrow from Decatur. It left in cars yes- terday and day before. W. T. SHERMAN, ]Ifajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: General Johnson informs me that he now connects closely with you, whether by swinging forward or extending he does not say. I under- stand there was very little firing in that gap to-day. I have had a pretty hard days work, anif believe I have reached about the end of Hoods rope. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Army of the Tennessee: GENERAL: It is quite important that I have to-day the use of that portion of Coxs division now on this side of the creek. I do not like to withdraw them and leave a gap, for all my trains must be left here and a breach would result in their loss, though I should not fear an thing more serious. If you can hold that space I shall be very glad to withdraw my troops. Please inform me. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Mqjor- General, Commanding Page 404 [OnAP. L. 404 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, August 6, 18646 a. m. Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio: DEAR GENERAL I can hold the present lines, but cannot prevent the enemy from entering between us after putting every man into posi- tion, so that I have no second line or reserves. However, I will do my best if you deem it necessary to take the brigade. Respectfully, ~. ~. HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Atlanta~ Ga., August 6, 18648 a. m. General SCHOFIELD, Commanding, & c.: I have directed General Logan to relieve your brigade, and have ordered the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry to watch the space be- tween us. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. Would be sent by telegraph, but it is not in working order. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, August 6, 1864. (Received 10 a. in.) General SCHOFIELD: GENERAL: I have ordered your brigade relieved. Quite a serious demonstration -is taking place on my left; may result in an attack; so please let your brigade remain near by as long as you can; but take it when you absolutely require it. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: I will let the troops remain till I absolutely need them. I have some apprehension for the safety of my right rear, and would like to have a reserve near my present headquarters. But I will risk it for a time. ~espectfully, ~, , SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HOWARDS hEADQUARTERS, August 6, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: The rebels made a demonstration with strong skirmish line along front of Sixteenth and Seventeenth Corps this morning and extended to Twentieth Corps this afternoon. I ordered a den~onstration for you Page 405 ChAP. LI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 405 relief, opening with artillery and musketry. Rebels replied with some musketry and several batteries of artillery, making a good deal of noise. I am yet in doubt whether any musketry firing occurred between John- son and myself. I hope Johnsons left has swung up onto that ridge, as it will secure the safety of the trains and will relieve your reserve brigade entirely; he may already have done so. My staff officers have explained to me your present position. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE Onio, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: Your telegram is received. I have ordered the brigade to be kept within supporting distance of your right until I absolutely require it. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 6, 186411.45 a. m. Colonel EWING, Acting Inspector- General: There is nothing particular requiring the presence of the general commanding at these headquarters. I have just returned from. the right, where I have been advancing my line. Blair and Morgan are in position and now intrenching. 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. - BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., August 6, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Fifteenth Army Oorps: The major-general commanding directs that the following telegram to him from General Sherman be sent to you, and that you cause your batteries to open on the enemys works, keeping up a regular cannon- ade, and to advance your skirmish line as if for an attack: General Schofield reports at 12.30 that he had crossed the main road, the Sand- town, and found the enemys line. He had attacked but did not succeed, but will repeat it again farther to the right. Order your b tteries to be demonstrative and engage the enemys at all points along your line during the day. We cannot hear the sound of his musketry. ~\T T. SHERMAN, Major-General. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAML. L. TAGGART, Assistant Adjutant-General. (Same to General Blair. Page 406 (CHAP. t. 406 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. J. M. CORSE, Commanding Second Dinision: ~enera1 Ransom and the Seventeenth Army Corps are moving into the new line by direction of the department commander. Have your line finished up as soon as possible. I think Welkers battery better remain in its present position. I have ordered Ransom to throw a regiment on his left, facing north, connecting his left with the main line occupied by you. I will be out this p. m. and see if we cannot in some manner shorten the line. Strengthen the new line as much as possible. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. Major.General DODGE: DEAR SIR: Yours of this date is received. I know nothing of Gen- eral A. -J. Smiths assignment to the command of the Sixteenth Corps. Among a batch of special orders received from Washington was one assigning Maj. John Hough to duty, with General A. J. Smith as com- manding the Sixteenth Corps. It may be as commanding that part of the corps on the Mississippi, where the records still are. This is all any one knows about it. General Grant supposed you would succeed Gen- eral llurlbut, but I know nothing further than the above. I take pleas- ure in saying you have ever done your whole duty with zeal and fervor. With respect, & c., W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 6, 1864. General MOARTHUR, Marietta: You may order the bridge at Roswell to be burned, and draw in the regiment of infantry and cavalry uow there; the river being fordable, there is no use in having detachments out exposed. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. KINGSTON, August 6, 1864. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-dc-Camp: There are several small bodies of enemys cavalry hovering on our line watching an opportunity to burn bridges and trains, but I think I can take care of them. Everything right, and going on well. Will go as far as the Chattahoochee with permission. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Major- Generat Page 407 Cwu~. L] CORRESPONDENCE, ETO.UNION. 407 BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., August 6, 18649 p. m. (Received 12 in. 7th.) Maj. THOMAS T. ECKERT: Palmer was relieved this morning of the command of the Fourteenth Corps, which has been handled to-day by Brigadier-General Johnson, under direction of General Schofield. Some ground has been gained on rght, l)ut not enough to enable us to command railroad yet. An at- tack by Schofields corps on enemys earth-works was repulsed with loss of 1,000 men in all. Farther extension to railroad found rebel flank; too late for further operations, but there is promise of success at day- light. Something done; prospects brighten a little. Our line of battle thirteen miles long. Generals report operations and receive orders by telegraph. J. C. VAN DUZER. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUM]3ERLAND, No. 215. ) Near Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. * * * * * * * ITT. At his own request Maj. Gem J. M. Palmer is relieved from ~he command of the Fourteenth Army Corps, on duty in the Department of the Cumberland, and will proceed to Carlinville, Ill., whence he will report by letter to the Adjutant-General U. S. Army, at Washington, D. C. The officers composing the generals personal staff are also re- lieved from duty, that they may accompany him. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation for the general, his staff, and the authorized number of servants and horses. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Thomas: WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT, AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, No. 90. ) Before Atlanta, Ga., August 6, 1864. * * * * * * * X. Corps commanders will at 6 oclock to-morrow morning, the 7th instant, move forward a sufficient number of their troops to occupy and hold the new line of works. By order of lVlaj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant- General. MASHINGTON, D. C., August 7, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN, Gommanding, & e.: Your progress, instead of appearing slow, has received the universal commendation of all loyal citizemis, as well as of the President, War Department, and all persons whose comuiendation you would care for Page 408 408 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. (CHAP. t. The enemy detaching a portion of his force to secure the crops of the Shenandoah Valley, and raid into Maryland and Pennsylvania to call attention from them, has called me here to organize our forces to drive the enemy south. I caine from the Monocacy yesterday afternoon, after having put all our forces in motion after the enemy, and after having pnt Sheridan in command, who I know will push the enemy to the very death. I will telegraph you in future more frequently than heretofore. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRs. MILITARY DIVIsION OF THE MissIssIpPI, in the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 18648 p. in. (Received 3.30 a. m. 8th.) Lieutenant-General GRANT, Washington: I was gratified to learn you were satisfied with my progress. Get the War Department to send us recruits daily as they are made, for we can teach them more war in our camps in one day than they can get at a rendezvous in a month. Also tell Mr. Lincoln that lie must not make the least concession in the matter of the September draft. It is right, and popular with the army, and the army is worth considering. I am glad- you have given General Sheridan the command of the forces to defend Washington. He will worry Early to death. Let us give those southern fellows all the fighting they want, and when they are tired we can tell them we are just warming to the work. Any signs of let up on our part is sure to be falsely construed, and for this reason I always remind them that the siege of Troy lasted six years, and Atlanta is a more valuable town than Troy. We must manifest the character of dogged courage and perseverance of our race. Dont stay in Washing- ton longer than is necessary to give impulse to events, and get out of it. It is the center of intrigue. I would like to have General Mower made a major-general. He is a real lighter. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. NEAR ATLANTA, GA., August 7, 18648 p. m. (Received -2.30 a. m. 8th.) Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.: Have received to-day the dispatches of the Secretary of War and Lieutenant-General Grant, which are very satisfactory. We keep ham- mering away here all the time, and there is no peace inside or outside of Atlanta. To-day General Schofield got round the flank of the line assaulted yesterday by General Reillys brigade, turned it, and gained the ground where the assault was, with all our dead and wounded. We continued to press on that flank, and brought on a noisy but not a bloody battle. We drove the enemy behind his maki breast-works, which cover the railroad from Atlanta to East Point. We captured a good maiiy of the skirmishers, which are of their best troops, for the militia hug the breast-works close. I do not deem it prudent to extend more to the right, but will push forward daily by parallels, and make the inside of Atlanta too hot to be endured. I have sent to Chattanooga for two 30-pounder Parrotts, with which we can pick out almost any house i Page 409 CHAP. t.] CORl~ESPONDENcE, ETC.ITNION. 409 the town. I am too impatient for a siege, but 1 do not know but here is as goo(I a place to fight it out as farther inland. One thing is cer- tain, whether we get inside of Atlanta or not, it will be a used-up com- munity by the time we are done with it. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. WASHINGTON, August 7, 186410.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: General Washburn has been directed to send you all the troops he can spare from his command. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 1864. ~Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: In order that you may have a proper understanding of the recent cavalry operations from this army that terminated somewhat unsuccessfully, I will explain. On the 25th of July I had driven the enemy to his inner intrenchments of Atlanta, and had by Garrard~s division of cavalry broken the road leading to Augusta about the branches of the Ocmulgee, forty miles east, and had by McPhersons army taken up two sections of rails of about five miles each, near Stone Mountain and Decatur. I then proposed to throw the Army of the Tennessee rapidly round by the right, so as to approach the only remaining railroad left to the enemy, leading due south for six miles, and then branching to Macon on the one hand and West Point, on the Chattahoochee, on the other. To accomplish this I placed General Stone- man with his own division of cavalry, 2,300 strong, and Garrards divi- sion, about 3,500, on my left near Decatur, and on the right General Mc- Cook with a small division of about 1,300, and a part of Harrisons, just arrived under Rousseau, from the raid to Opehika. This force was about 1,700. Both expeditions started punctually on the 27th, and acted under my written orders, No. 42, a copy of which is inclosed.* The day before starting General Stoneman addressed me a note,t a copy of which is inclosed, asking leave, after fulfilling his orders , to push on and release our prisoners known to be confined at Macon and Anderson- ville. I gave my consent in a letter,t a copy of which is also inclosed. Nothing but the natural and intense desire to accomplish an end so inviting to ones feelings would have drawn me to commit a military mistake, at such a crisis, as that of dividing and risking my cavalry, so necessary to the success of my campaign. Stolleman ordered Garrard to move to Flat Rock, doubtless to attract the attention of the enemy, while he passed behind him and on to McDonough and the railroad about Love joys, where lie would have met McCook, but for some reason he did not go to McDonough, but to Covington, and down on the east side of Ocmnulgee to Clinton, when lie sent detachments that burned the Oconee bridge, seventeen locomotives, over 100 cars, tore down tele- graph wire, and damaged the railroad east of Macon considerably. He See p. 255. tSee pp. 264, 265 Page 410 410 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. rellAp. L. attempted to get into Macon; shelled the town, but fell back to Clinton. Finding the enemy gathering iu too large a force, lie seems to have turned back, but thc roads were obstructed, and he fought till his am- munition was exhausted, and lie seems to have given up. 1-Ic told his brigade commanders, Adams and (Dapron, he would with 700 men en- gage the attention of the enemy, while they might escape. Adams has come in with his brigade, 900 strong; Capron is not in, and I think the bulk of his command were captured. About forty stragglers of it have got in. I have no doubt Stoneman surrendered in the manner and at the time described by the Macon paper I sent you yesterday. Garrard remained at Flat I~ock until the 29th, and hearing nothing of Stoneman lie came in without loss or serious opposition. McCook crossed the Chattahoocliee at Rivertown, below Cainpbellton, by a pontoon bridge, which he sent back, intending to come in by a circuit east and north. At 2 p. Wi. of the 28th he left the banks of the Chattahoochee and struck the West Point branch at Magnolia Station, which he burned and tore up track. lie then by a rapid night march pushed for Fayette- ville, where he found the roads and by-ways full of army wagomis be- longing to the army in Atlamita, enibraciug the headquarters teams of all the generals. All were burmied good, and about 800 mules sabered. He then pushed on for the railroad at Lovejoys, where lie destroyed full two miles of track, the depot, a lot of cotton and stores, and carried off five miles of telegraph wire. Up to that time he had not encountered any opposition, for Stonemans and Garrards movements out from Decatur had attracted the enemnys cavalry. Having, as he supposed, broken the road eiiough, and supposing his best way back was by Kewnan, he turned in that direction. He had 73 officers and 350 men prisommers, mounted on all sorts of horses and mules; still lie reached Newuan, where the enemny began to gather about him and oppose him. He thinks two brigades of dismounted cavalry, acting as infantry, had been stopped en route from Mississippi for Atlanta by the break he had made in the rail- road and happened there. These, in addition to two divisiomis of cav- alry, headed him off whichever way he turned. He fought hard for five hours, until he exhausted his artillery ammunition, whemi he chopped up the wheels, spiked and plugged the guns. He then kept Harrisons brigade, and directed the smaller ones, commanded by General Croxton and Colonel Torrey, to cut out. He continued to fight until near night, when he dashed through an infantry line, reached the Chattahioochee, crossed his men, and got in. harrison is a prisoner, I think; of Crox- ton I can hear nothing. But nearly all the muemi miot killed and wounded are in. McCook left his prisoners free, and his wounded in charge of his surgeons. His managemnent was all that could be expected throughout. With great W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. NASHVILLE, August 7, 1SG4. Major-General SnEnMAN: The Northwestern Railroad is now run by Mr. Anderson, though not formally turned over by Governor Johnson. A depot is established at Johnsouville, and supplies are arriving by that line. The navy has been notified to patrol the Tennessee River to Johusonville and Reynolds- burg. General Gillein has been guardimig the road, and I have had sev- eral conferences with him as to iiicreasing the force there, as the increas- ing importance of the line seemed to require more. Will confer wit Page 411 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tTNION. 411 General Rousseau and see that all is done which can insure safety and full working of the road. Colonel Donaldson fully appreciates its im- portance. J. I). WEBSTER, Brigadier- Uenercd. NASHVILLE, Augast 7, 1864. Major-General SHER1~1AN: The Northwestern Railroad has been under the exclusive control of the military authorities so far as transportation and supplies for the Government are concerned since 9th of June, and the transfer now pro- posed had already taken place. Even transportation of citizens was only on military authority. It has been understood and was intended that so soon as the military authorities placed the rolling-stock on at their discretion time-tables for running continuously through to the far- thest point would be established. The road is still unfinished; the work is progressing as rapidly as possible. This State is largely interested in this road, innocent persons beyond its limits holding the bonds issued for its construction. An effort was made by certain parties some time since to take charge of road before it was eveii in running order. It is hardly necessary for me to state that there might be parties interested in vari- ous ways in having the immediate and direct supervision of the road a little farther removed for other than military purposes. I repeat that for all military and Government purposes the road has been under military control since the cars have been running over it. It seems to me the same and stronger reasons for taking the Nashville and Louisville have existed since the Federal troops first entered Nashville. The Government has paid hundreds of thousands for the use of that road, which found its way into the pockets of traitors, and are for the support of treason. A. JOHNSON, Military Governor. finQEs. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 1864. Colonel DONALDSON, Quartermaster, Nashville: Take military possession of time Northwestern Railroad, un der the laws of Congress, by order of the President of the United States, a copy of which orders will reach you by mail.* Place the road and its equip- ments in the charge of the general superintendent, with orders to use it exclusively for military uses and transportation. Make such tein- porary store-houses as will accommodate the business of the season of low water, and call on General Rousseau to guard it according to his judgment of the danger to its safety. As this transfer is made by virtue of an act of Congress, I think an accurate inventory of the road, its stock and material on hand, should be made, and a regular set of books opened of its business, that a future settlement may be made with the owners of the road if entitled to compensation. I do not see why the cars might not be loaded at Reynoldsburg and unloaded here in our camp. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Gommanding. See p. 391 Page 412 412 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. L HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 1861. Major-General THOMAS: The line assaulted yesterday was an incomplete one. By feeling its left, Bates division evacuated and fell back to the real line which is nearer the railroad. I ordered the skirmishers to be pushed in and the strength demonstrated, and developed heavymusYetry fire and artillery. We have gained valuable ground and full possession of the real Sand- town road. Our lines are close up and by morning will be intrenched, so we will keep on working by that flank, but I want the whole line advanced whenever it be possible, and that General Thomas bring from Chattanooga two 30-pounder Parrotts on siege carriages and batter the town. The closer we press our lines we contract and strengthen. General Schofields right does not yet really threaten the railroad, though a full mile nearer East Point than last night. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Oommanding~ (Same to General Howard.) HEADQUARTERS OF MAJOR-GENERAL SCHOFIELD, August 7, 1864. General THOMAS: Telegraph to Chattanooga and have two 30-pounder Parrotts sent down on the cars, with 1,000 shells and ammunition. Put them into your best position, and knock down the buildings of the town. Slow progress here. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, August 7, 18648.30 p. m. Major-General SHERMAN: The guns have been ordered by express train with ammunition, and I will look up the best position for them to-morrow. Have directed Elliott to make arrangements for the distribution of the horses. He thinks he can bring up McCooks division to about 3,000. McCooks men are constantly coming in and Kilpatrick reports that he has taken some prisoners, rebel cavalry, near Campbellton. The enemy still occupies his intrenchments in my front in considerable force. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. ~. Yolunteers, Gommanding. HOWARDS HOUSE, August 7, 18647.30 a. rn. Captain CASE, Chief Signal Officer: Cannot see any change in enemys lines since yesterday. Guns in same position. Can see a few men loitering behind their works. Can- not see any troops moving. It is very quiet. BURTON, Signal Officer Page 413 Ca& i~. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 413 HOWARDS HousE, August 7, 18641 p. rn. Captain CASE, Chief Signal Officer, Department of the (Jumberiand: See column of dust south of here d tell which way it is movilig. , istant about eight mugs. Cannot H. H. BURTON, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. STATION OBSERVATION, August 7, 18649.25 a. m. Capt. A. K. TAYLOR, Acting Signal Officer, Commanding: CAPTAIN: No change since yesterday except greater activity along the enemys lines. They are issuing clothing at four-gun fort. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. STATION OBSERVATION, August 7, 1864. Capt. A. K. TAYLOR, Acting Signal Officer, Commanding: CAPTAIN: No change along line since morning. Heavy cannonading on our right this afternoon. Dense volume of smoke arose out of the city this evening for a few minutes near tall brick smoke-stack. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. HOPKINS, First Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. Statement of J. ilL Glass (scout). OFFICE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 1864. Says he left Atlanta, Ga., yesterday morning about 110 oclock; says the right of the enemys line is held by militia supported by one bri - gade of ilardees corps; with this exception all the old troops are on the center and on the left. Hardees corps is on the left flank of the army. From the best information he could get thinks there are at least 15,000 militia. One brigade of mnilitia came in from some point below on the 4th instant. Learmied that 1,700 of General Stonemans command were captured; heard a rumnor to the effect that General Wheeler will be relieved of his command because he did not capture the whole of Generals Stonemans and McCooks commands. Two bri- gades of Wheelers corps were sent to Flat Shoals on the 5th instant. An orderly on duty at General Hoods headquarters told him, Glass, that General Lee was expected from Virginia, also that General Ewell was looked for at Atlanta with his corps, said to be 32,000 strong. Same orderly said that he believed from the manner in which things were going on about headquarters that preparations were being made for a sudden flank mnovemnent of some kind. The large guns have all been remnoved from the fort east of the cemetery. Do not think Hood is accumulating supplies in Atlanta; think they only arrive as they are needed by the troops. Trains are running re~ular1y on the Macon and ~t1anta road Two hundred pri8oners were seat be~OW on t~ie Page 414 414 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. instant. Our wounded prisoners are kept in the southeast portion of the town. Says he came out of Atlanta past the cemetery, thence on the Decatur road south of the Augusta railroad to Decatur. Says there are no troops in Decatur or to the right. Says there are no rebel works nor troops between our works and the railroad. South of the railroad the enemy has two lines of works held by militia. The right of the enemys line of infantry is within one mile of Decatur. The two brigades of cavalry sent to Flat Shoals are from Martins division, which was camped in the rear of the infantry between Atlanta and Decatur; only one brigade there now. Glass thinks that from the hint he received from General Hoods inspector-general, viz, to come over last night, that they did not want him there to-day. Respectfully forwarded for the information of the general command- ing. ED. C. DEMG, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- Ueneral. HDQR$. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MississI~~I, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 18G4. Brig. Gen. H. S. GRANGER, Decatur, Ala.: I dont want the artillery; we have enough. If not needed at Deca- tur, put the men and guns on the cars and send them to Nashville in reserve. Turn over the horses to the cavalry. Do all that is possible to put your cavalry in the best order ,and feel down into Alabama as far and as often as is prudent. General A. J. Smith will make a clean sweep this time. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIYIsIoN OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 1864. Major-General SCHOFIELD: I dont apprehend the enemys cavalry will get in behind you north of Utoy Creek, but it is well to be prudent. You can use all the cav- alry belonging to your arumy, and may send to Marietta and secure the horses of Colonel Adams brigade and mount other men. I think some of Colonel Caprons men are in too. If Colonel Garrard watches the passes of Utoy and blocks all roads not guarded that flank is a strong one. A very few infantry well posted would make it more secure. Con- tinue to work on the enemys left night and day and give him no rest. I will se~ to 41 other points. ~. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 18618.80 p. in. Major-General SHERMAN: Our line is swung forward until it faces nearly due east from Mor- gans center to Coxs center, from which last point it is somewhat re- fused. This piust, I think, bring Coxs center witl4u a mile of th Page 415 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 415 railroad. We cross both the Sandtown and Campbellton roads near their intersection, which seems to be between our line and that of the enemy. I have not yet learned the filial result of the operations of Johnsons left. Will inform you when I hear from him. We have got good positions fov artillery, and are putting in batteries all along the line to-night. I have seen Colonel Garrard and given him orders about picketing our right, but apprehend that his force (400 men) is entirely inadequate. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major- General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 1864. General SCHOFIELD: Thats right. Go on in your own way to accomplish the cud and keel) your five divisions so as to hold the enemy till a battle is fought. I will look a little closer at General Howards front to see if there is not a weak place there iu the enemys line; there should be about the head of Utoy, north fork. I will then work my way down to you on the extreme right. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, Major-General SCHOFIELD, August 7, 186412 m. Commanding Army of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have Hobsons brigade on the Bald Hill, which has been the bone of contention, and two prisoners taken say that their division (Bates, of Hardees corps) fell back last night to their main work about a mile east or back, in consequence of my attack on their left last night. I am moving fomward with my whole division, and will push out a reconnaissance at once. MILO S. HASCALL, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. These ~prisoners say their works do not extend within two miles of East Point. The enemy thought I had turned his extreme left and was making direct for East Point. M. S. H. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE, August 7, 1864, Major-General SHERMAN: LOOKOUT STATIoNlO.20 a. in. A column of the enemy just moved toward their left. On account of the confor- mation of the ground and the (lust I cannot tell how large a force. In the column I discovcred two flags, white ones like signal flags. A train of twelve wagons and two ambulances followed the column. One train, freight, arrived this a. in. in Atlanta. FISH, Signal Officer. 0. 0. IIOWAiRD, Moor- General. (Sanme to General Schofield. Page 416 416 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L. HOWARDS HEADQUARTERS, August 7, 1864. (Received 8.30 p. in.) Major-General SCHOFIELD: General Dodge advanced his skirmishers, taking 27 prisoners. Six- teenth and Seventeenth Corps main lines advanced about 300 paces and intrenched. Fifteenth Corps advancing and intrenching to-night near our present skirmish line. It is reported that one of Bairds wagons and some men were captnred between here and Chattahoochee. Is not Utoy Creek l)icketed by your cavalry ~ 0. 0. HOWARD, ]4a~jor- General. AUGUST 7, 1864.For R. W. Johnson ,to Schofield, reporting oper- ations of the Fourteenth Corps, see Part I, p. 510.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE OHIO, Near Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 1864. Major-General HOWARD: My cavalry is picketing Utoy Creek, and Colonel Garrard thinks no rebel cavalry has passed this way; but he has only 400 men, which, I apprehend, is entirely too small to guard so long a line. J. M. SCHOFIELD, Major. General. BEFORE ATLANTA, GA., Au gust 7, 1864. Brigadier-General WILLIAMS, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Corse informs me that you promised to move up the right of your line to the hill immediately on his left as soon as he had gained possession of the ridge in his front. General Corse has already moved his line forward and is intrenched, but it will be impossible for him to extend his line, not even the length of a regi- ment. Will you be kind enough to connect the right of your line if you can with the left of General Corses division, and oblige, Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. HDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, August 7, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps: SIR: I have the honor to state that I took my position in lookout station at 7 a. in., but on account of fog it was sometime before I could see with any correctness. At 10.30 a. m. I sent a message to Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard stating that a column of the enemy just moved toward their left. I was unable to count the files, but saw two regi- mental flags, twelve wagons, and two ambulances movc by with colnmm One train of freight cars loaded with white sacks, apparently corn or ~neal, passed into Atlanta at 11 a. m. At 1,30 ~. in. a train consistin Page 417 CHAP. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 417 of eight freight and three passenger cars left the town empty. At 2 p. in. a freight train of fifteen cars, empty, left town. At 4.30 a passenger train with eight freight ears attached came in sight; the engine backed into town withont the passenger cars. At 5 p. in. a freight train of thirteen cars loaded with white sacks, as before, passed into town. During the day several trains from twelve to thirty wagons each passed into town from the sonthwest loaded with fodder, partly dry and partly green; some loads looked like wheat or oats. The enemys lines as far as I can see appear to be nnchanged. My observations lead me to believe that the eiiemy are repairing the Augusta railroad. I am, sir, most respectfully, yonr most obedient servant, SAMUEL EDGE, First Lieutenant, A cti~g Signal Officer, Comdg. Detachment. IIDQIIs. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Before Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 1864. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Fifteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding requests me to say that your proposition to advance yonr lines meets his hearty approval. Yon will accordingly move forward your right to the hill which your skirmishers now occupy, establishing yonr line so as to connect in a direct line as near as may be with yonr present left. You will also please direct General Woods to throw forward his right so as to form the shortest practicable line to the creek. Please have the new position intrenched to-night and yonr troops moved into the works. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant-General. Major.General SHERMAN, MARIETTA, GA., August 7, 1864. Commanding: The bridge at Roswell has been destroyed and the regiment reported here. The commanding officer informs me that yesterday afternoon he saw clouds of dust some distance to the left, on the opposite side of the river, as of troops moving in that direction. Have you sent any cavalry around your left~ J. MuARTHUR, Brigadier. General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MIssIssIppI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 7, 1864. General MCARTHUR: Your dispatch received. General Garrards cavalry on our left flank frequently patrols up as far as McAfees Bridge above Roswell. The dust may have been his cavalry. Still I know the enemy will attempt by his cavalry to strike our road, audI want you to keep all on the look- out, and to fight like the devil. If any party allows itself to be sur- prised or defeated, he lithe commander] had better drown himself. W. T. SHERMAN, 2Ili~jor. General, Commanding. 27 R R~VOL XXXVIII~ PT Page 418 418 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ) HDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE MISS., In the Field, near Atlanta, No. 53. $ August 7, 1864. 1. The following officers being the seniors of their departments with the army in the field, are hereby relieved from duty with the Depart- ment of the Cumberland, and will in person report at these headquar- ters for duty, viz: Lieut. Col. L. C. Easton, chief quartermaster; Capt. T. G. Baylor, chief ordnance officer. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide.de-Camjp. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, liD QRS. ARMY OF THE OHIO, No. 74. Near Atlanta, Ga., August 7, 1864. * * * * * * II. The Fourteenth and Twenty-third Corps, as far as General Coxs right, will press the enemy closely during the day to-morrow, and gain and intrench as much ground as practicable. Each division will en- deavor,if the commanders deem it practicable, to carry a point of the enemys works. General Hascall will make a reconnaissance to the right, and endeavor to reach and turn the enemy~s flank. Intrench- ments must be made very strong and held with small force, so as to leave large reserves for operations, either offensive or defensive, upon the right. By command of Major-General Schofield: J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, L~ the Field, near Atlanta, August 8, 1864. General THOMAS: The enemys cavalry manifests activity on our right, threatening to cross Utoy Creek to General Schofields rear. He has little or no cav- alry. I want him to-morrow to develop well the enemys dank, which I believe is along the south fork of Utoy Creek~ covering East Point. To enable him to do this I want a general cannonading to-morrow, the 4A--inch guns included, if they come in time; and I want you to order General Garrard to send a brigade out to and beyond Decatur on your left, and let General Kilpatrick move down to Sandtown and feign as though intending to cross over. Send orders for him to-night, that the effect may be felt as early in the day as possible. I cannot move Gen- eral Schofield with any activity as long as that cavalry hovers on his right and rear. We are now as much extended as possible, and must test the strength of our flanks and line. W. T. SIIEI~MAN, Major- General, Commanding. THOMAS HEADQUARTERS, August 8, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: Your dispatch about the cavalry received. Will be attended to im- mediately. -GEO. H. THOMAS, Major. General Page 419 Cn& r. L.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 419 HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, August 8, 1864. General THOMAS: Where is General Kilpatricks cavalry at this time l W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. THOMAS HEADQUARTERS, August 8, 1864. General SHERMAN: General Kilpatricks headquarters are at the junction of Powder Springs and Sandtown roads. He covers Sweet Water and patrols to Dallas. S. HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI In the Field, near Atlanta, August 8, 1864. General THOMAS: Order Captain Merrill to meet General Culluni at Nashville about the end of thi~ week to coiisult about the defenses of Nashville. This by General Hallecks order. General Schofield has made some progress on the right, but not enough. General Howard has also advanced his line somewhat. Let me know if the 44-inch guns have come and where you will place them. A very good place will be on General Wards right, on account of the opening made by the valley of ~ Creek, giving a plain view of the very heart of the town. J would like to have them at work to-morrow. WT SHERMAN, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, August 8, 1864. Major-General SHERMAN: The 44-inch guns have not yet arrived. They are not due until to- morrow. I have selected a very good point for them on Geary~s left, where you can get a fair view of the town, and half a mile nearer than any other position. It was reported that they were to leave Chatta- nooga at 8 a. m; to-day. The position selectj3~d enfilades White Hall street, upon which is General Hoods headquarters, and the battery is being built to-night. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMEERLAND, Major-General SHERMAN: August 8, 1864. Lieutenant Wharton, Engineers, informs me that there are not enough topographical engineers in this army to supply its necessary wants; consequently I shall not be able to spare any to General Schofield. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. ~. Volunteers, Commanding Page 420 420 THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. [CHAP. L Captain CASE, Chief Signal Ojftcer: AUGUST 8, 1864. Can see no change in enemys lines. Can see them bringing water from their works. Hear brisk cannonading on right. BURTON. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CoRPS, Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Augu8t 8, 1864. Chief of Staff: GENERAL: The appearance of the enemys line in front of this corps remains unchanged so far as can be ascertained by observation. Since the capture of their pickets in the demonstrations made last week the enemy have strengthened their line, and in our last attempt promptly re-enforced thefr pickets and showed a disposition to main- tam the line. A lieutenant and private from Vaughans brigade, Cheat- hams division, deserted and came into our lines this morning. They came directly through their own pickets. The lieutenants account of their line is essentially the same as given by previous prisoners and deserters, i. e., the main ~rorks are filled by militia, and that Cheathams and Cleburnes divisions are camped behind the main line, confronting the Fourth Corps, and doing the picketing for the militia. He.does not know of the position of the remaining division of Hardees corps, Bates, but thinks it is similarly employed. I have no reason to doubt the statement of this man, and he says he was along the line and saw the troops he mentions yesterday. Two brigades of dismounted cavalry extend the rebel right beyond the right of the infantry south of the railroad. It appears somewhat strange the rebels can oppose these old troops to us here and yet meet the movements upon our right. The lieutenant represents the defenses north and east of Atlanta as very perfect and that there is nothing south in the way of fortifications. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. HDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, SECOND CAVALRY DIVISION, Buck Head, Ga., August 8, 1864. Capt. ROBERT P. KENNEDY, Assistant Adjutant-General, Second C