TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 44 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, 1893 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 ~0rueU ~uivrrsiti~ ~ibtar~ THE GIFT OF -ji~2/ Title Page Page R001 THE - WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF ~EHE OFFICIAL iRECO7RDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PUBLISHED UNDER TILE DIRECTION OF The Hon. DANIEL S. LAMONT, Secretary of War, BY MAJ. GEORGE B. DAVIS, U. S. A., MR. LESLIE J. PERRY, MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Board of Publication. SERIES IVOLUME XLIV. Reports, Correspondence, etc. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 18 9:3 Page R002 27 4 Page R003 PREFACE. The work of preparing the records of the war for public use was begun under the resolution of Congress of May 19, 1864, by Adjt. Gen. E. ID. Townsend, 17. 5. Army, who caused copies to be made of reports of battles on file in his office aiL(l steps to be taken to collect missing records. Under the provisions of joint resAution No. 91, of 1866, Hon. Peter H. Watson was appointed to supervise the preparation and formulate a plan for the publication of the records, but lie did no work and drew no pay under this appointment, which expired July 27, 1868, by limi- tatioii of the resolution. This resolution also repealed the former one and work ceased. The first decisive step taken iii this work was the act of June 23, 1874, providing the necessary means to enable the Secretary of War to begin the publication of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, both of the Union and Confederate Armies, and directing him to have copied for the Public Printer all rel)orts, letters, tele- grains, and general orders, not heretofore copied or l)rinted, and prop- erly arranged in chronological order. Appropriations have l)een made from time to time for continuing such preparation. Under this act the prellininary work was resumed by General Townsend, who first out- lined the plan on which the records are printed, though it appears that originally he contemplated publishing to the world only the more im- I)ortant military reports. Subsequently, under meager appropriations, it was prosecuted iii a somewhat desultory manner by various subordinates of the \Var IDe- partinent until December 14, 1877, when the Secretary of War, per- ceiving that the undertaking needed the undivided attention of a single head, detailed Lient. Col. Robert N. Scott, U. S. Army, to take charge of the bureau and devote himself exclusively to the work. The act of June 23, 1874, greatly emilarged upon the first crude scheme of publication. On this more comprehensive basis it was de- teruiined that the volumes should include not only the battle reports, but also all official documents that can be obtained by the compiler, and that appear to be of any historical value. Colonel Scott system- I Page R004 Iv PREFACE. atized the work and the plan and presented the records in the following order of arrangement, which has been adhered to by his successors: The first series will embrace the formal reports, both Union and Confederate, of the first seizures of United States property in the Southern States, and of all mil- itary operations in the field, with the correspondence, orders, and returns relating specially thereto, and, as proposed, is to be accompanied by an Atlas. In this series the reports will be arranged according to the campaigns and sev- eral theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the events), and the Union reports of any event will, as a rule, be immediately followed by the Confederate accounts. The correspondence, etc., not embraced in the reports proper will follow (first Union and next Confederate) in chronological order. The second series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns, Union and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, and (so far as the military authorities were concerned) to State or political prisoners. The third series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspondence with the Confederate offi- cials) not relating specially to the subjects of the first and second series. It will set forth the annual and special reports of the Secretary of War, of the General- in-Chief, and of the chiefs of the several staff corps and departments; the calls for troops, and the correspondence between l3he National and the several State author- ities. The fourth series will exhibit the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Confederate authorities, similar to that indicated for the Union officials, as of the third series, but excluding the correspondence between the Union and Confed- erate authorities given in that series. The lWst volume of the records was issued in the early fall of 1880. The act approved June 16, 1880, provided for the printing and bind- ing, under direction of the Secretary of War, of 10,000 copies of a com- pilation of the Official Records (Union and Confederate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be ready for publication, during the fiscal year; and that of said number 7,000 copies shall be for the use of the House of Representatives, 2,000 copies for the use of the Senate, and 1,000 copies for the use of the Executive De- partments. Under this act Colonel Scott proceeded to publish the first five volumes of the records.* *All subsequent volumes have been distributed under the act approved August 7, 1882, which provides that: The volumes of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion shall be distrib- uted as. follows: One thousand copies to the Executive Departments, as now pro- vided by law. One thousand copies for distribution by the Secretary of War among officers of the army and contributors to the work. Eight thousand three hundred copies shall be sent by the Secretary of War to such libraries, organiza- tions, and individuals as may be designated by the Senators, Representatives, and Delegates of the Forty-seventh Congress. Each Senator shall designate not exceed- ing twenty-six, and each Representative and Delegate not exceeding twenty-one, of such addresses, and the volumes shall be sent thereto from time to time as they are . published, until the publicatIon is completed. Senators, Representatives, and Dele- gates shall inform the Secretary of War in each case how many volumes of those heretofore published they have forwarded to such addresses. The remaining copies of the eleven thousand to be published, and all sets that may not be ordered to be distributed as provided herein, shall be sold by the Secretary of War for cost of publication with ten per cent. added thereto, and the proceeds of such sale shall b Page R005 PREFACE. V Col. Robert N. Scott died March 5, 1887, before the completion of the work, which, during a ten years service, he had come to love so dearly. At his death some twenty-six books only had been issued, but he had compiled a large amount of matter for forthcoming volumes; conse- quently his name as compiler was retained in all the books up to and including Vol. XXXVI, although his successors had added largely to his compilations from new material found after his demise. The Secretary of War, May 7, 1887, assigned Lient. Col. H. M. Lazelle, U. S. Army, to duty as the successor of Colonel Scott. He had con- tinued in charge about two years, when, in the act approved March 2, 1889, it was provided That hereafter the preparation and publication of said records shall be conducted, under the Secretary of War, by a board of three persons, one of whom shall be an officer of the Army, and two civilian experts, to be appointed by the Secretary of War, the compensation of said civilian experts to be fixed by the Secretary of War. The Secretary of War appointed Maj. George B. Davis, judge-advo- cate, U. S. Army, as the military member, and Leslie J. Perry, of Kan- sas, and Joseph W. Kirkley, of Maryland, as the civilian expert mem- bers of said board. The board assumed direction of the publication at the commencement of the fiscal year 1889, its first work beginning with Serial No. 36 of Vol. XXIV. Each volume includes a copious and accurate index, and for the fur- ther convenience of investigators there will be, in addition, a geimeral index to the entire set when complete in a volume by itself. Nothing is printed in these volumes except duly authenticated con- temporaneous records of the war. The scope of the boards work is to decide upon and arrange the matter to be published; to correct and verify the orthography of the papers used, and occasion ally to add a foot-note of explanation. GEO. B. DAVIS, Major and J. A., U.S.A., LESLIE J. PERRY, Civilian Expert, JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Civilian Expert, Board of Publication. Approved: REDFIELD PROCTOR, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., August 1, 1891. covered into the Treasury. If two or more sets of said volumes are ordered to the same address, the Secretary of War shall inform the Senators, Representatives, or Delegates who have designated the sanie, who thereupon may designate other libraries, organizations, or individuals. The Secretary of War shall report to the first session of the Forty-eighth Congress what voluin es of the series heretofore published have not been furnished to such libraries, organizations, and individuals. He shall also inform distributees at whose instance the volumes are sent Page R006 Table of Contents Page R007 CONTENTS. CHAPTER LVI. Page. Operations in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. November 14December 31, 1864 11013 (VII Page R008 List of Tables Page A001 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IRECORDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. AI)DITTONS AND CORRECTIONS TO SERIES IVOLUME XLIV. (To he inserted in the voimne. Yor explanation see General Index vohzirne, Serial No. 130, page XXVIII.) PUBLISHED 17N1)ER THE DIRECTION The Hon. ELIHU ROOT, Secretary of War, BY BRIG. (3EN. FRED C. AJNSWORTH, CHIEF OF THE REcoin) AND PENSION OFFICE, WAR 1)EPARTMENT, ANI) MR. JOSEPH W. KLRKLEY. i~Ir. JOHN S. MOODEY, Indexer. W A SHIN (I TON: GOVERN~IENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1902 Page A002 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS. TEXT. Page 769. Erase foot-note and insert See Plate 90, 11/op 8, of the A/las. Page 938. In Gilchrist to Jones, third line, insert * after Girardeys lzght battey, and add footnote * Oganized for the emegency. lifade up of eon- ~alescents and men returning from furlough, belonging to commands in Virginia and Tennessee. Page 942. Special Field Orders, for No. 203 read No. 3. Page ioi6. Following Brooks Battalion, etc., for See Brooks read See Confederate Troops, Brooks Forezg-n Battalibn. Page ioiS. After Girardeys (Camille E.) Artilley, for See Louisiana Cuard, Artil/ery, post, read Imp rozised. See Camille E. Girarde~j. Page 1020. Strike out Louisiana Gua,-d, Artilleiy. See Louisiana Troops, Con- federate. INDEX. Insert all words and figures in italics and strike out all in [brackets]. Au asterisk (*) followiug a correction indicates that Additious and Corrections to the text should he consulted. Allen, William W. (Brig-. Gee.). Mentioned, [761. Allen, William IV (Sz~. (~cer), ~6. Avers [Ayres]. Lyman N. Barnette, D. J. [Major]. Brooks. Jo/in H. [ 3. Campbell, Archibald L., ~ [Campbell, W. 11., 9931. Chisolm, Robert J. Confederate Troops. Iufautrv~Battalious: Brooks foreign 9/0. 966. Em ci-ic [Emery]. Damas. Flausburg, Nelson [Nathan]. Georgia Troops. InfantryRegiments: 1st (Regulars), 951. [iSth[?] Regulars, 931.] Girardey, Camille E., 938*, 9~9, 997, 1000. Gonrand [Gourand], George E. Havue, I. ~J.] W. Kirby, Dennis T. Report of Savannah, Ga., Campaign, etc., 101 [103]. Lamar, G. B., jr. Louisiana Troops (C.). Artillery, LightBatteries: [Louisiana Guard, 938, 939, 993, 997, woo]. McDouough, Goniniodore, U S. S. [Steamer]. Alalliewes [Matthewes], J. Fraser. llfessinger, Gliarles H. [Messeuger, Lieutenant]. Prudeu, Ji/illiam H. [ Roots, Logan H. Sampsou, C. 5. 5., 976 [Sampson, Steamer, 976]. Savannah, Ga,, Campaign. Nov. 15-l)ec. 21, 1864. Reports of Kirby, Denuis T., 10/ [103]. :;chilliug, Eugene, 68s [Shilling, Eugeuc, 682]. 6olfridge, James L. Meutioned, ss6 [2271. Smith, Henry I. [J.]. South Caroliua, Georgia, and Florida, Dept. of. Orders, Special Field, series 1664: No.3 [203]. ,~ Tombs [Toombs], J. H. War Department, C. 5 Correspondeuce with Havue, I. [J.] XV. Special Index Page R009 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME I. CHAPTER I. Page. CHAPTER V Page. Operations in Charleston Harbor, South The secession of North Carolina. Janit. Carolina. December 20, 1860April 14, ary 9May 20, 1861 474.488 1861 1~l17 CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER II. The secession of Louisiana. January 10 The secession of Georgia. January 3-26, February 19, 1861 489501 1861 318-125 . CHAPTER VII. CHAPTER III. Operations in Texas and New Mexico. ThesecessionofAlabamaandMississippi February 1-June 11, 1861 502636 January 420, 1861 326...lSo CHAPTER VIII. CHAPTER IV. Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Tern. OperationsinFlorida. January 6August tory, and Missouri. February7May 9, 31, 1861 331473 1861 637691 VOLUME 11. CHAPTER IX. Page. Operations in Maryland. Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. April 16-July 31, 1861. 1-1012 VOLUME III. CHAPTER X. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, ICansas, and Indian Territory. May 10-November 19, 1861. 1749 VOLUME IV. CHAPTER XI. Page. CHAPTER XIII. Page. )perations in Texas, New Mexico, and Operations in North Carolina and South. Arizona. June 11, 1861February 1,1862. 1174 eastern Virginia. August 1, l861Janu. CHAPTER XII. ary 11, 1862 566-721 Operations in Kentucky and Tennessee. Jnly 1November 19, 1861 175565 VOLUME V. CHAPTER XIV. Page. Operations in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia. August 1,1861March 17, 1862. 11106 VOLUME VI. CHAPTER XV. Page. CHAPTER XVI. Page. Operations on the coasts of South Caro. Operations in West Florida, Southern Al. lina, Georgia, and Middle and East abama, Southern Mississippi, and Lou. Florida. August 21,1861April 11,1862. 1435 isiana. September 1, 1861May 12, 1862. 436-894 VOLUME VII. CHAPTER XVII Page. Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. November 19, 1861-March 4, 1862 1946 (ix Page R010 X CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME VIII. CHAPTER XVIII. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. Nov. 19, 1861-April 10, 1862. 1-834 VOLUME IX. CHAPTER XIX. Page. CHAPTER XXI. Page. Operations in Southeastern Virginia. Jan- Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and nary 11March 17, 1862 171 Arizona. February 1September 20, CHAPTER xx. 1862 481-736 Operations in North Carolina. January 11August 20, 1862. . . 72480 VOLUME XIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXII. Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Mississippi, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. March 4June 10, 1862. Page. Part IReports 1-927 Part lICorrespondence, etc 1642 VOLUME XIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXIII. The Peninsular Campaign, Virginia. March 17September 2, 1862. Page. Part 1Reports, March 17-June 24 11077 Part lIReports, June 25-September 2 1-994 Part IllCorrespondence, etc 1-691 VOLUME XIIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXIV. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. March 17-September 2, 1862. Page. Part IReports, March 17-June 25 1-818 Part lIReports, June 26-September 2 1-820 Part IllCorrespondence, etc 1-966 VOLUME XIII CHAPTER XXV. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the Northwest. April 10-November 20, 1562 1-981 VOLUME XIV. CHAPTER XXVI. Page. Operations on the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East Florida. April 12, 1862June 11, 1863 11025 VOLUME XV. CHAPTER XXVII. Page. Operations in WestFlorida, Southern Alabama, Southern Mississippi (embracing all operations against Vicksburg, May 18-July 27, 1862), and Louisiana, May 12, 1862-May 14, 1863; and operations in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. September 20, 1862May 14, 1863 1113 Page R011 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. XI VOLUME XVIIN TWO PAflTS. CHAPTER XXVIII. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. June 10October 31, 1862. Page. Part portS 1-1168 Part IICorrespondence, etc 1-1017 VOLUME XVIII~ TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXIX. Operations in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi. June 10, 1862January 20, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1-807 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1-916 VOLUME XVIII. CHAPTER XXX. Page. Operations in North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. August 20, 1862-June 3. 1863 1-1104 VOLUME XIXIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXI. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. September 3-Novem. her 14. 1862. Page. Part IReports, September 320 11108 Part IlReports, September 20November 14; Correspondence, etc., September 3-Novem- ber 14 1-739 VOLUME XXIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXII. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. No. vember 1, l862January 20, 1863. Page. Part 1Reports 1997 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1516 - VOLUME XXI. CHAPTER Xxxiii. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. November Page. 15, 1862-January 25, 1863 13152 VOLUME XXIIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXIV. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the North west. November 20, 3862December 31, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1-926 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1-116 Page R012 XII CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME XXIIIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXV. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Ttnnessee, North Alabama, anti Southwest Virginia. Jan uary 21August 10, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1-858 Part IlCorrespondence, etc .. .. . -.. .. 1986 VOLUME XXIVIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXXVI. Operations in Mississippi and West Tennessee, including those in Arkansas and Louisiana connected with the Siege of Vicksbnrg. January 20August 10, 1863. Page. Part IReports, January 20May 15, including the General Reports~ for whole period. January 20-August 10 1-787 Part IlReports, May 16August 10 1699 Part IllCorrespondence, etc 1-1070 VOLUME XXVIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXVII. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. January 26-June 3, 1863. Page. Part IReports 11123 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1-862 VOLUME XXVIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXVIII. Operations in West Florida, Southern Alabama, Southern Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico. May 14December 31, 1861. Page. Part IReports, Union Correspondence, etc 1-920 Part IlConfederate Correspondence, etc 1581 VOLUME XXVIIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXXIX. Operations in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Department of the East. June 3August 3, 1863. Page. Part IReports 11059 Part IlReports 11005 Part IllCorrespondence, etc .. 1.-1092 VOLUME XXVIIIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XL. Operations on the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia, and in Middle and East Florida. June 12 December 31, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1755 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1609 VOLUME XXIXIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XLI. Operations in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Augnst 4De. cember 31, 1863. Page. Part IReports 11018 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 193 Page R013 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES.. XIII VOLIJME XXXIN FOUR PARTS. CHAPTER XLII. Operations in Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, North Alabama, and North Georgia. August 11October 19, 1863. Page. Part IReports 11071 Part IlReports 1-821 Part IllUnion Correspondence, etc 11017 Part IVUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-768 VOLUME XXXIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XLIII. Operations in Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, North Alabama, and north Georgia. October 20December 31, 1863. Page. Part IReports and Union Correspondence 1852 Part IlReports 1-782 Part IllUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-893 VOLUME XXXIIIN ThREE PARTS. CHAPTER XLIV. Operations in Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and North Georgia. January 1April 30, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1703 Part IlUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1833 Part IllUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-879 VOLUME XXXIII. CHAPTER XLV. Page. Operations in North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Jan. nary 1April 30, 1864 11335 VOLUME XXXIViN FOUR PARTS. CHAPTER XLVI. Operations in Louisiana and the Trans.Mississippi States and Territories. January 1June 30, 1864. Page. Part IReports 11058 Part IlUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 11107 Part 111Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1835 Part IVUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-701 VOLUME XXXV1N TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XLVII. Operations in South Carolina and Florida, and on the Georgia Coast. January 1November 13, 1864. Page. Part 1Reports, Union nod Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-646 Part I IUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 165 Page R014 XIV CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME XXXVIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XLVIII: Operations in Southeastern Virginia and North Caroliiia. May b-June 12, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1-1101 Part IlReports, Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-1027 Part I 11Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1903 VOLUME XXXVIIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XLIX. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, aiid Pennsylvania. May 1Augost 3, 1864. Page. Part I~ports, Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1770 Part IlUnion and Confederate Correspondence. etc 1606 VOLUME XXXVIIILN FIVE PARTS. CHAPTER L. The Atlanta, Ga., Campaign. May 1September 8, 1864. Page. Part 1Reports 1-936 Part lIReports 1-930 Part IllReports 1-1008 Part IVUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1807 Part VUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 11031 VOLUME XXXIXIN ThREE PARTS. CHAPTER LI. Operations in Kentucky, Southwest Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and North Georgia (the Atlanta Campaign excepted). May INovemher 13, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1908 Part IlUnion and Confederate Correspondence, et 1889 Part 111Union and Confederate Correspondence etc 1918 VOLUME XLIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER LII. Operations in Southeastern Virginia and North Carolina. June 13-Joly 31, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1-823 Part lI-Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-717 Part ill-Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1823 VOLUME XLIIN FOUR PARTS. CHAPTER LIII. Operations in Lonisiana and the Trans-Mississippi States and Territories. July 1I)ecember 31, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1-1006 Part 11Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 11099 Part 111Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 11015 Part I VUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1114 Page R015 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. XV VOLUME XLIIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER LIV. Operations in Southeastern Virginia and North Carolina. August 1-I)ecember 31, 1864. Page. Part IReports 1-1029 Part IlUnion and Confederate Correspondence 1-1311 Part IllUnion and Confederate Correspondence 1-1370 VOLUME XLIIIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER LV. Operations in Northern Virginia, West. Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. August 4December 31, 1864. Page. Part IReports, Union and Confederate Correspondence, etc 11032 Part lIUnion and Confederate Correspondence, etc 1-95 Page R016 C-4. CD a CD Id 1 Its~I~ t ~I.~I~ ~ ~ 10 C~ -~ 0 C~ ~ ~- --1 ~ ~ 10 C~ , 3~L~ I~IN~~ ts~ ~ 1 0 ~ o ~ ~ ~ . IN~ tN~ ~ ~- 1 0 ~ -~ 0 ~ 4 Sunday. Monday. Tuesday. LN~ -~ ~tZ~~ Q~ 0 C~ ~ ~ 1 0 ~.Z 1 0 C~ ~ Friday. ~ Saturday. CD 0 0 0 0 C.4 Cl) CD Id 1* Wednesday. Thursday. ~ 1 0 c~ . 0 ~ ~ ~ X ~ U~ QI ~ *- 1 ~ ~- 1 0 ~ ~ ~.O i~ QI . 1 0 Q~ 1 0 Q3 -1 ~ IN~ QI 0 ~a 1 0 Q~ QI ~ L~ ~ o~ ~ I\~ QI ~ ~ 1 ~ ~ 1 0 Q~ 1 0 C.~ O~ Sunday. Monday. Tuesday. Wednesday. t~I~~ . ~ oQ~o ~ QI~~: ~~-: Thursday. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Friday. VI . Saturday. c~ i~ ~ ~ 1 0 ~ Page 1 CHAPTER LVI. OPERATIONS IN SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA. November 14December 31, 1864. SUMMARY- OF TIfIE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. Nov. 15Dec. 21, 1864.The Savannah (Georgia) Campaign. 1617, 1864.Expedition from Barrancas to Pine Barren Bridge, Fla. 29,1864.Skirmish near Boyds Landing, S. C. 30, lS64.Engagement at Honey Hill, near Grahamville, S. C. Dec. 6 9, lS64.Deiaonstrations against the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, S. C. 1319, 1864.Expedition from Barrancas, Fla., to Pollard, Ala., and skirmishes. 20, 1864.Skirmish near the Pocotaligo Road, S. C. NOVEMBER 15DECEMBER 21, 1864.The Savannah (Georgia) Campaign. S U M MARY- Q F TilE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. Nov. 15, 1864.Shermans army starts from Atlanta. Skirmish at Jonesborough. Skirmish near East Point. Skirmishes near Rongli and Ready and Stockbridge. 16, 1864.Action at Lovejoys Station. Skirmish at Bear Creek Station. Skirmish at Cotton River Bridge. 17, 1864.Affair at Towaliga Bridge. 19, 1864.Skirmish at Back Head Station. 20, 1864.Skirmish near Clinton. Skirmish at Walnut Creek. Skirmish at East Macon. Skirmish at Griswoldville. 21, 1864.Skirmish at Griswoldville. Skirmish near Macon. Skirmish at Gordon. Skirmish near Eatonton. 2123, 1864.Skirmishes at Clinton. 22, l864.Engagement at Griswoldville. 23, 1864.Skirmish near Milledgeville. 2325, 1864.Skirmishes at Balls Ferry and the Georgia Central Railroad Bridge, Oconee River. 25, 1864.Skirmish near Sandersville. 26, 1864.Skirmish at Saadersville. 27, 1864.Skirmish at Sylvan Grove. 2728, 1864.Action at Wayaesboromigh. 28, 1864.Skirmish near Davisborough. Skirmish near Waynesborough. *For mention of this skirmish, see reports of engagement at Honey Hill, pp. 422, 436. 1 R UVOL XLI Page 2 2 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Nov. 28,1864.Skirmish at Buck Head Church. Engagement at Buck Head Creek, or Reynolds Plantation. 29, 1864.Skirmish near Louisville. 30, 1S~.Skirmish at Louisville. Dec. 1, 1564.Skirmish at Milieus (or Shady) Grove. 2,1864.Skirmish at Rocky Creek Church. Skirmish at Buck Head Creek. 3, 1864.Skirmish at Thornias Station. 4, 1864.Engagement at Waynesborough. Skirmish near Statesborough. Skirmish at Station No. 5, Georgia Central Railroad. Skirmish at the Little Ogeechee River. Skirmish near Luinpkins Station. 5, 1864.Skirmish at the Little Ogeechee River. 7, 1864.Skirmish at Jenks Bridge, Ogeechee River. Skirmish at Buck Creek. Skirmish at Cypress Swamp, near Sisters Ferry. 8, 1864.Skirmish at Ebenezer Creek. Skirmish near Bryan Court-House. 9, 1864.Skirmish at Ogeechee Canal. Skirmish between Eden and Pooler Stations. Skirmish at Caylers Plantation. Skirmish at Monteith Swamp. 10, 1864.Skirmish near Springfield. Skirmish near Savannah. Capture of the C. S. Steamer Ida. 1121, 1864.Investment of Savannah. 12, 1864.Communication established betweeu General Shermans army and the South Atlantic Biockading Squadron, under Rear-Adiairal Dahigren. Capture of the C. S. Steamer Resolute. 13, 1864.Engagement at Fort McAllister. 1421, 1864.Naval attack on Forts Rosedew and Beanlien, Vernon River 16, 1864.Skirmish at Hinesville. REPOI~TS, ETC.* No. 1.Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, U. S. Army, commanding Military Division of the Mississippi. No. 2.Organization of the Union Forces. No. 3.Itinerary of the Union Forces, November 1~ecember 31. No. 4.-Capt. Orlando M. Poe, Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army, Chief Engineer. No. 5.Capt. Thomas G. Baylor, U. S. Army, Chief Ordnance Officer. No. 6.Col. Amos Beckwith, U. S. Army, Chief Commissary of Subsistence. No. 7.Maj. Gen. Oliver 0. Howard, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Ten- nessee. No. 8.Capt. James M. MeClintock, U. S. Army, Aeting Chief Signal ()tiicer. No. 9.Lient. Col. David Remiek, Chief Comnmnissary of Subsistence. No. 1O.Asst. Snrg. David L. Hummtingtomm, U. S. Ammny, Acting Medical Director. No. 1l.Maj. Gen. Peter J. Osterhans, U. S. Army, comuniandimig FitteenthArmny Corps No. 12.Lient. William Ii. Sherfy, U. S. Arimmy, Signal Officer. No. 13Brig. Ccii. Charles IL Won(1s, U. S. Arimmy, cm)mmmmmmammdimLg First Division. No. 14.Col. Milo Sumithm, Twenty-sixth io~va lnf~mmmtry, (omnnIaildiimg First Brigade. ~For Grants referemmee to these operations, see Vol. XXXVIII, Part I, p. 29. For reports of naval co-operating forces, see Aimummal Report ot the Secretary of the Navy, December 4, 1865 Page 3 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 3 No. 15.-Col. Thomas Curly, Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry, of operations May 1December 21. No. 16.Lieut. Col. Dennis T. Kirby, Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry, of oper- ations December 4. No. 17.Col. Robert F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations November 22. No. 18.Maj. Asias Willison, One hundred and third Illinois Infantry. No. 19.Lient. Col. Isaac N. Alexander, Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, of operations November 22. No. 20.Maj. Edward N. Upton, Forty-sixth Oiiio Infantry. No. 21.Brig. Gen. William B. Hazen, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division. No. 22.Col. Theodore Jones, Thirtieth Ohio infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 23.Col. James S. Martin, One hundred and eleventh Illinois Infantry, com- manding Second Brigade. No. 24.Maj. William M. Mabry, One hundred and eleventh Illinois Infantry, of operations October 4, 1864January 4, 1865. No. 25.Lient. Col. George H. Scott, Eighty-third Indiana Infantry, of operations September 5, 1864January 2, 1865. No. 26.Lieut. Col. Louis von Blessingh, Thirty-seventh Ohio Infantry, of operations November 13, 1864January 2, 1865. No. 27.Col. Augustus C. Parry, Forty-seventh Ohio Infantry, of operations Novem- ber 15, 1864January 2, 1865. No. 28.Maj. George F. Kili, Fifty-fourth Ohio Infantry. No. 29.Col. John M. Oliver, Fifteenth Michigan Infantry, commanding Third Bri- gade. No. 30.Brig. Gen. John E. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division. No. 31.Brig. Gen. John M. Corse, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth l)ivision. No. 32.Brig. Gen. Elliott W. Rice, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade. No. 33.Lieut. Col. Jerome D. Davis, Fifty-second illinois Infantry. No. 34.Lieut. Col. Roger Martin, Sixty-sixth Indiana Infantry. No. 35.Col. Noel B. Howard, Second Iowa Infantry. No. 36.Lieut. Col. James C. Parrott, Seventh Iowa Infantry. No. 37.Col. Robert N. Adams, Eighty-first Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations October 5December 21. No. 38.Maj. Wheelock S. Merriman, Twelfth Illinois Infantry. No. 39.Capt. William S. Boyd, Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry. No. 40.Maj. William C. Henry, Eighty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations October 5December 21. No. 41.Lient. Col. Frederick J. Hurlbut, Fifty-seventh Illinois Infantry, command- ing Third Brigade. No. 42.Lieut. Col. Hector Perrin, Seventh Illinois Infantry. No. 43.Maj. Gen. Frank P. Blair, jr., U. S. Army, commanding Seventeenth Army Corps. No. 44.Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Mower, U. S. Army, commanding First Division. No. 45.Brig. Gen. Mortimer D. Leggett, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division. No. 46.Brig. Gen. Manning F. Force, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade, of operations December 2. No. 47 .Brio Gen. Giles A. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Division. No. 48.Capt. Henry Duncan, Fifty-third Indiana Infantry, First Brigade. No. 49.Maj. Gen. Henry W. Slocum, U. S. Army, commanding Left Wing, of oper- ations September 29December 21. No. 50.Col. George P. Buell,Fifty-eighth Indiana Infantry, commanding Pontoniers. No. 51.Lient. Col. Joseph Moore, Fifty-eighth Indiana Infantry, commanding sec- tion of Pontoon Train. No. 52.Bvt. Maj. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army, commanding Fourteenth Army Corps Page 4 4 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL No. 53.Brig. Gen. William P. Carlin, U. S. Army, commanding First Division. No. 54.Col. Harrison C. Hobart, Twenty-first Wisconsin Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 55.Maj. John H. Widmer, One hundred and fourth Illinois Infantry, of oper- ations September 7December 21. No. 56.Lient. Col. Cyrus E. Briant, Eighty-eighth Indiana Infantry. No. 57.Lient. Col. Joseph H. Brigham, Sixty-ninth Ohio Infantry, comnianding Second Brigade. No. 58.Lient. Col. David Miles, Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry, com- manding Third Brigade. No. 59.Capt. James H. Low, Thirty-eighth Indiana Infantry. No. 60.Lient. Col. Arnold McMahan, Twenty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations September 3December 21. No. 61.Maj~ Robert P. Findley, Seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry. No. 62.Maj. Michael H. Locher, Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry, of oper- ations October 3December 21. No. 63.Brig. Gen. James D. Morgan, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division. No. 64.Journal of Second Division. No. 65.Col. Robert F. Smith, Sixteenth Illinois Infantry, colnman(ling First Brigade. No. 66.Capt. Eben White, Sixteenth illinois Infantry. No. 67.Maj. James H. McDonald, Sixtieth Illinois Infantry. No. 68.Capt. Charles H. Richman, Tenth Michigan Infantry. No. 69.Lient. Col. Joel 0. Martin, Seventeenth New York Infantry. No. 70.Lient. Col. John S. Pearce, Ninety-eighth Ohio Infantry, commanding Sec- ond Brigade. No. 71.Lient. Col. Mans R. Vernon, Seventy-eighth Illinois Infantry. No. 72.Capt. James R. McLaughlin, Ninety-eighth Ohio Infantry. No. 73.Lieut. Col. James W. Langley, One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois Infan- try, commanding Third Brigade. No. 74.Lient. Col. Charles W. Clancy, Fifty-second Ohio Infantry. No. 75.Brig. Gen. Absalom Baird, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division. No. 76.Lient. Joseph R. Channel, Battery C, First Illinois Light Artillery. No. 77.Brig. Gen. Alpheus S. Williams, U. S. Army, commanding Twentieth Army Corps. No. 78.Brig. Gen. Nathaniel J. Jackson, U. S. Army, commanding First Division. No. 79.Snrg. Henry Z. Gill, U. S. Army, Surgeon-in-Chief. No. 80.Col. James L. Selfridge, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 81.Lient. Col. Henry W. Daboll, Fifth Connecticut Infantry, of operations October 21December 23. No. 52.Lient. Col. James C. Rogers, One hundred and twenty-third New York In- fantry, of operations October 21December 24. No. 83.Capt. William Merrell, One hundred and forty-first New York Infantry. No. 54.Maj. Patrick Griffith, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 55.Col. Ezra A. Carman, Thirteenth New Jersey Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 56.Col. William Cogswell, Second Massachusetts Infantry. No. 57.Maj. Frederick H. Harris, Thirteenth New Jersey Infantry. No. 58.Lient. Col. Allen N. Sill, One hundred and seventh New York ~Infantry, of operations September 2December 23. No. 59.Maj. Alfred B. Smith, One hundred and fiftieth New York Infantry. No. 90.Col. William Hawley, Third Wisconsin Infantry. No. 91.Col. James S. Robinson, Eighty-second Ohio Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. ~o. 92.Maj. Ferdinand H. Rolshausen, Eighty-second Illinois Infantry, of oper- ations September 4December 23 Page 5 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 5 No. 93.Lient. Col. John B. Le Sage, One hundred and first Illinois Infantry, of oper- ations September 2December 23. No. 94.Lient. Col. Hezekiali Watkins, One hundred and forty-third New York Infantry. No. 95.Capt. John Garrett, Sixty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations September 4December 22. No. 96.Lieut. Col. David Thomson, Eighty-second Ohio Infantry. No. 97Col. Francis H. West, Thirty-first Wisconsin Infantry. No. 98.Brig. Gen. John W. Geary, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division. No. 99.Col. Ario Pardee, jr., One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 100.Lient. Col. Robert Kirkup, Fifth Ohio Infantry. No. 101.Maj. Myron T. Wright, Twenty-ninth Ohio Infantry, of operations Novem- ber 15December 19. No. 102.Capt. Jonas Schoonover, Twenty-ninth Ohio Infantry, of operations De- cember 2024. No. 103.Lient. Col. Eugene Powell, Sixty-sixth Ohio Infantry, of operations Sep- tember 4December 21. No. 104.Col. John Flynn, Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations Sep- tember 2December 21. No. 105.Lieut. Col. John Craig, One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations September 2December 21. No. 106.Col. Patrick H. Jones, One hundred and fifty-fourth New York Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations September 18December 21. No. 107.Col. George W. Mindil, Thirty-third New Jersey Jnfantry, of operations September 2December 21. No. 105.Col. John T. Lockman, One hundred and nineteenth New York Infantry, of operations September 1December 21. No. 109.Maj. William H. Hoyt, One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Infantry, of operations September 2December 21. No. 110.Maj. Lewis D. Warner, One hundred and fifty-fourth New York Infantry. No. 111.Lient. Col. Charles C. Cresson, Seventy-third Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 112.Capt. Walter G. Dunn, One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 113.Ool. Henry A. Barnum, One hundred and forty-ninth New York Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 114.Maj. Thomas Elliott, Sixtieth New York Infantry. No. 115.Lient. Col. Harvey S. Chatfield, One hundred and second New York In- fantry. No. 116.Lient. Col. Koert S. Van Voorhis, One hundred and thirty-seventh New York Infantry. No. 117.Maj. Nicholas Grumbach, One hundred nud forty-ninth New York Infantry. No. 115.Licut. Col. Samuel M. Zulich, Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 119.Lient. Col. Thomas M. Walker, One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations September 3-December 21. No. 120.Brig. Gen. William T. Ward, IJ. S. Army, commanding Third Division. No. 121.Col. Franklin C. Smith, One hundred and second Illinois Infantry, corn- nianding First Brigade, of operations September 23December 21. No. 122.Maj. Hiland H. Clay, One hundred and second Illinois Infantry. No. 123.Maj. Henry D. Brown, One hundred and fifth Illinois Infantry. No. 124.Col. Henry Case, One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry. No. 125.Lient. Col. Samuel Merrill, Seventieth Indiana Infantry. No. 126.Col. Daniel Dustin, One hundred and fifth Illinois Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 127.Lieut. Col. James E. Burton, Thirty-third Indiana, Infantry. No. 125.Lieut. CoL Alexander B. Crane, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry Page 6 6 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYL No. 129.Lieut. Col. John J. Baker, Nineteenth Michigan Infantry, of operations September 4December 21. No. 130.Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry. No. 131.Col. Samuel Ross, Twentieth Connecticut Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 132.Lient. Col. Philo B. Buckingham, Twentieth Connecticut Infantry. No. 133.Lient. Col. Elisha Doane, Thirty-third Massachusetts Infantry, of oper- ations September 5December 21. No. 134.Lient. Col. Lester B. Faulkner, One hundred and thirty-sixth New York Infantry. No. 135.Lieut. Col. Edwin H. Powers, Fifty-fifth Ohio Infantry. No. 136.Lient. Col. Samuel H. Hurst, Seventy-third Ohio Infantry, of operations September 2December 21. No. 137.Lient. Col. Frederick C. Winkler, Twenty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry, of operations September 4December 21. No. 135.Maj. John A. Reynolds, First New York Li~ht Artillery, commanding Artil- lery Brigade, of operations September 2December 21. No. 139.Capt. Charles E. Winegar, Battery I, First New York Light Artillery, of operations September 2December 21. No. 140.Lient. Edward P. Newkirk, Battery M, First New York Light Artillery, of operations September 2December 21. No. 141.Lient. Jerome B. Stephens, Battery C, First Ohio Light Artillery, of oper- ations September 2December 24. No. 142.Capt. Thomas S. Sloan, Battery E, Pennsylvania Light Artillery, of oper- atious September 2December 26. No. 143.Brig. Gen. Judson Kilpatrick, U. S. Army, commanding Third Cavalry Division. No. 144.Col. Eli II. Murray, Third Kentucky Cavalry, commanding First Brigade. No. 145.Lient. Col. Fielder A. Jones, Eighth Indiana Cavalry. No. 146.Capts. Joseph T. Forman and Robert M. Gilmore, Second Kentucky Cav- alry. No. 147.Lient. Col. Robert H. King, Third Kentucky Cavalry. No. 145.Col. Oliver L. Baldwin, Fifth Kentucky Cavalry. No. 149.Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 150.Col. Smith D. Atkins, Ninety-second Illinois Mounted Infantry, command- ing Second Brigade. No. 151.Lieut. Col. Matthew Van Buskirk, Ninety-second Illinois Mounted Infan- try. No. 152.Col. George S. Acker, Ninth Michigan Cavalry. No. 153.Col. Thomas T. Heath, Fifth Ohio Cavalry. No. 154.Col. William D. Hamilton, Ninth Ohio Cavalry. No. 155.Lient. Col. Thomas W. Sanderson, Tenth Ohio Cavalry. No. 156.Capt. Yates V. Beebe, Tenth Wiscensin Battery. No. 157.Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Corps. No. 155.Maj. Gen. Gustavus XV. Smith, C. S. Army, commanding First Division, Georgia Militia, of operations October 12November 30, including en- gagement at Honey Hill, S. C. iNo. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, U. S. Army, commanding Military Division of the Mississippi. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, Savannah, Ga., December 22, 1864. DEAR GENERAL: I take great satisfaction in reporting that we are in possession of Savannah and all its forts. At first I proposed to ex- tend across the river above the city from Slocums left, but the enem Page 7 CHAP. Lvi.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 7 had a gun-boat and ram heavily armed that would have made the step extra hazardous; also the submerged rice fields on the northeast baiik were impracticable. I then went to Hilton Head to arrange with Gen- eral Foster to re-enforce his movement from Broad River, but before I had completed the move Hardee got his garrison across and off on the Union plank road. Our troops eiitered at daylight yesterday, took about 800 prisoners, over 100 gnus (some of the heaviest caliber), and a perfect string of forts from Savannah around to iMicAllister, also 12,000 bales of cotton, 190 cars, 13 locomotives, 3 steam-boats, and an immense supply of shells, shot, and all kinds of ammunition. There is a complete arsenal here, and much valuable machinery. The citi- zens mostly remain, and the city is very quiet. The river below is much obstructed, but I parted with Admiral Dahlgren yesterday at 4 p. in., and he will at once get about removing them and opening a way. The enemy blew up an iron-clad (Savaiinah), a good rain, and three tenders, small steamers. As yet we have made but a partial inventory, but the above falls far short of our conquests. I have not a particle of doubt but that we have secured 150 fine guns, with plenty of ammu- nition. I have now completed my first stel), amid should like to go on to you, via Columbia and Raleigh, but will prepare to embark as soon as vessels come. Colonel Babcock will have told you all, and you know better than anybody else how much better troops arrive by a land march than when carried by transports. I will turn over to Foster Savannah and all its outposts, with, say, one division of infantry, Kil- patricks cavalry, and plenty of artillery. Hardee has, of course, moved into South Carolina, but I do not believe his Georgia troops, militia and fancy companies, will work in South Carolina. his force is reported by citizens at from 15,000 to 20,000. The capture of Savannah, with the incidental use of the river, gives us a magnificent position in this quarter; and if you can hold Lee, and if Thomas can continue as he did on the 18th, I could go on and smash South Carolina all to pieces, arid also break up roads as far as the Roanoke. But, as I before re- marked, I will now look to coining to you as S00~ as transportation comes. We are all well and confident as ever. Yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN, Major- General U Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, ~, . S. Army. Commanding Armies of the United States, City Point, Va. HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, In the Field, Savannah Ga Janua GENERAL :* , ,., ry 1, 1865. On the 12th of November my army stood detached and cut off from all communication with the rear. It was composed of four corpsthe Fifteenth and Seventeenth, constituting the Right Wing, under Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard- the Fourteenth amid Twentieth Corps, constituting the Left Wing, under Maj. Gen. H. W. Slocuniof an aggregate strength of 60,000 infantry; one cavalry division, in aggregate strength 5,500, under Brig. Gen. Judson Kilpatrick, and the artillery, reduced to the minimum, one gun per 1,000 muen. * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 580 Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. [CHAP. LVI. The whole force was moved rapidly and grouped about Atlanta on the 14th of November. In the meantime Capt. 0. M. Poe had thoroughly destroyed Atlanta,save its mere dwelling-houses and churches, and the Right Wing, with General Kilpatricks cavalry, was put in motion in the direction of Jonesborough and McDonough, with orders to make a strong feint on Macon, to cross the Ocmnlgee about Planters Mills, and rendezvous in the neighborhood of Gordon in seven days, exclu- sive of the day of march. On the same day General Slocum moved with the Twentieth Corps by Decatur and Stone Mountain, with orders to tear up the railroad from Social Circle to Madisoii, to burn the large and important railroad bridoe across the Oconee, east of Madison, and turn south and reach Milledgeville on the seventh day, exclusive of the day of march. In person 1 left Atlanta on the 16th, in company with the Fourteenth Corps (Bvt. Maj. Gen. Jeff. C. Davis), by Lithonia, Coy- ington, and Shady Dale, directly on Milledgeville. All the troops were provided with good wagon trains, loaded with ammunition and sup- plies, approximating twenty days bread, forty days sugar and coffee, a double allowance of salt for forty days, and beef-cattle equal to forty days supplies. The wagons were also supplied with about three days forage, in grain. All were instructed, by a judicious system of foraging, to maintain this order of things as long as possible, living chiefly, if not solely, upon the country, which I knew to abound in corn, sweet pota- toes, and meats. My first object was, of course, to place my army in the very heart of Georgia, interposing between Macon and Augusta, and obliging the enemy io divide his forces to defend not only those points, but Milieu, Savannah, and Charleston. All my calculations were fully realized. During the 22d [20th] General Kilpatrick made a good feint on Macon, driving the enemy within his intrenchments, and then di-ew back to Gris- woldville, where Walcutts brigade of infantry joined him to cover that flank, whilst Howards trains were closing up, and his mcii scattered, breaking up railroads. The enemy came out of Macon [22d] and attacked Walcutt in position, but was so roughly handled that he never repeated the experiment. On the eighth day after leaving Atlanta (namely, on the 23d [22d]) General Slocum occupied Milledgeville and the important bridge across the Ocont~e there, and Generals Howard and Kilpatrick were in and about Gordon. General Howard was then ordered to move eastward, destroying the railroad thoroughly in his progress as far as Temmnille Station, opposite Sandersville, and General Slocumn to move to Saudersville by two roads. General Kilpatrick was ordered to Milledgeville, and thence move rapidly eastward, to break the railroad which leads from Milieu to Augusta, then to turn upon Milieu and rescue our prisoners of war supposed to be confined at that place. I accompanied the Twentieth Corps from Milledgeville to Sandersville, approaching which place, on the 25th, we found the bridges a~~ross Buffalo Creek burned, which de- layed us three hours. TIme next day we entered Sandersvihle, skirmish- ing with Wheelers cavalry, which offered little opposition to the ad- vance of the Twentieth and Fourteenth Corps, entering the place almost at the same moment. General Slocum was then ordered to tear up and destroy the Georgia Central Railroad, from Station 13 (Tennille) to Statiomi 10, iiear the crossing of Ogeecheeone of his corps substantially following the rail- road, the other by way of Louisville, in support of Kilpatricks cavalry. In person I shifted to the Right Wing, and accoml)allied the Seven- teenth Corps (General Blair) oh the south of the railroad, till abreast o Page 9 (HAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 9 Station 9~ (Barton), General Howard, in person, with the Fifteenth Corps, keeping farther to the right, and about one days march ahead, ready to turn against the flank of any enemy who should oppose our progress. At Barton I learned that Kilpatricks cavalry had rcach~d the Angnsta railroad about Waynesborough, where he ascertained that our prisoners had been removed from Milleii, ~nd therefore the purpose of rescuing them, upon which we had set our hearts, was an impossibility. But as Wheelers cavalry had hung around him, and as he had retired to Louisville to meet our infantry, in pursuance of my instructions not to risk battle unless at great advantage, 1 ordered him to leave his wagons and all incumbrances with the Left Wing, and moving in the direction of Augusta, if Wheeler gave him the opportunity, to indulge him with all the fighting he wanted. General Kilpatrick, supported by Bairds division of infantry of the Fourteenth Corps, again moved in the direction of Waynesborough, and encountering Wheeler in the neigh- borhood of Thomas Station, attacked him in position, driving him from three successive lines of barricades handsomely through Waynesbor- ough and across Brier Creek, the bridges over which he bnrned; and themi, with Bairds division, rejoined the Left Wing, which in the mean- time had been marching by easy stages of temi miles a day in time flirec- tion of Lumnpkins Station aiid Jacksonboronghm. The Seventeenth Corps took up the destruction of the railroad at the Ogeechee, near Sta- tion 10, and continned it to Millemi, the emmemy offering little or mmo oppo- smtion, although preparations had seemingly been made at Millen. On the 3d of December the Seventeenth Corps, which I accompanied, was at Millen; the Fifteenth Corps (General Howard) was south of the Ogeechee, opposite Station 7 (Scarborough); the Twentieth Corps (General Slocum) omi the Augusta railroad, about four miles north of Millen, near Buck Head Church, and the Fourteenth Corps (General Jeff. C. Davis) in the neighborhood of Lumupkins Station, on the Augusta railroad. All were ordered to mmmarch in the direction of Savannah the Fifteenth Corps to continue south of the Ogeechee, the Seventeenth to destroy the railroad as far as Ogeechee Churchamid four days were allowed to reach the hue from Ogeechee Church to the neighborhood of Halleys Ferry, on the Savannah River. All the columns reached their destinations on time, amid contimined to march on their several roadsGeneral Davis followimmg time Savannah River road; General Slocum the middle road, by way of Springfield; General Blair the rail- road, amid General Howard still south an(l west of the Ogeechee, with orders to cross to the east bank opposite Eden Station, or Station No.2. As we approached Savammnah the country becammie more marshy and difficult, and more obstructions were muet in the way of felled trees, where the roads crossed the creek, swamups, or narrow causeways; but our pioneer companies were well organized, and removed these obstruc- tiomis in an incredibly short tinie. No opl)ositiomi from the enemy worth speaking of was encountered until the heads of colummis were within fifteen miles of Savannah, whmeme all the roads leading to the city were obstructed mnore or less by felled timber, with earth-works and artillery. But these were easily turned and the emmemy driven away, so that by the 10th of Decemnber the enemy was driven within his lines at Savan- nah. These followed substantially a swamupy creek which empties into tIme Savannah River about three miles above the city, across to the head of a correspondimig streatu which empties into tIme Little Ogeecimee. These streams were singularly favorable to the enemy as a cover, being very marshy, and bordered by rice fields, which were flooded either by the tide water or by inland ponds, the gates to which were controlle Page 10 10 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. and covered by his heavy artillery. The only approaches to the city were by five narrow causewaysnamely, the two railroads, and the Augusta, the Louisville, and the Ogeechee dirt roadsall of which were commanded by heavy ordnance, too strong for us to fight with our light field-guns. To assault aii enemy of unknown strength at such a disadvantage appeared to me unwise, especially as I had so successfully brought my army, almost unscathed, so great a distance, and could surely attain the same result by the operation of time. I therefore instructed my army commanders to closely invest the city from the north and west, and to reconnoiter well the ground in their fronts, respectively, whilst I gave my personal attention to opening communi- cations with our fleet, which I knew was waiting for us in Tybee, Wassaw, and Ossabaw Sounds. In approaching Savannah General Slocum struck the Charleston railroad near the bridge, and occupied the river-bank as his left flank, where he had captured two of the enemys river boats, and had pre- vented two others (gun-boats) from coining down the river to com- municate with the city; while General Howard, by his right flank, hind broken the Gulf railroad at Flemings and Ways Stations, and occupied the railroad itself down to the Little Ogeechee, near Station 1; so that no supplies could reach Savannah by any of its accustomed channels. We, on Hi e contrary, possessed large herds of cattle, whichi we had brought along or gathered in the country, and onr wagons still comitained a reasonable amount of breadstuffs and other necessaries, and the fine rice crops of the Savannah and (igeechee Rivers furnished to our men and animals a large ainommiit of rice and rice straw. We also held the country to the south and west of the Ogeechmee as forag- ing groumid. Still, communication with the fleet was of vital impor- tance; and I directed General Kilpatrick to cross the Ogeecliee by a pontoon bridge, to reconnoiter Fort McAllister, and to proceed to Saint Catherines Sound, in the direction of Suiibery or Kilkenny Bluff; and Ol)~Ii conununicatmon with the fleet. General Iloward had ~)reviously, by my direction, sent one of his best scouts down the Ogeechee in a canoe for a like purpose. But more than this was necessary. We wanted the vessels and their contents; and the Ogeechee River, a nav- igable stream, close to the rear of our camps, was the proper avenue of supply. The enemy had burned the road bridge across the Ogeeche e, just below the mouth of the Camitiouchee, kmio wn as Kings Bridge. This was reconstructed in an incredibly short time, in the most substantial manner, by the Fifty-eighth Indiana (Colommel Buell), under the direc- tion of Captain Reese, of the Engineer Corps, and on the morning of the 13th of December the Second Division of the Fifteenth Corps, under com- maiid of Brigadier-General Hazen, crossed the bridge to the west bank of the Ogeechee and marched down with orders to carry by assault Fort McAllister, a strong inclosed redoubt, manned by two companies of artillery amid three of infantry, in all about 20(1 men, and moumiting twenty-three guns in barbette and one mortar. General Hazen reached the vicinity of Fort McAllister about 1 p. in., deployed his division about the place, with both flanks resting upon the river, posted his skirmishers judiciously behind the trunks of trees, whose branches had been used for ab~tis, and about 5 p. m. assaulted the place with nine regiments at three points, all of them successfully. I witnessed the assault from a rice mill on the opposite bank of the river, and can bear testimony to the handsome manner in which it was accomplished Page 11 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 11 Up to this time we had not conimunicated with our fleet. From the signal station at the rice mill oar officers had looked for two days over the rice fields and salt marsh in the direction of Ossabaw Sound, bat could see nothing of it. But while watching the preparations for the assault on Fort McAllister we discovered in the distance what seemed to be the smoke-stack of a steamer, which became more and more dis- tinct, until about the very moment of the assault she was plainly visi- ble below the fort, and oar signal was answered. As soon as I saw our colors fairly planted upon the walls of McAllister, in company with General Howard I went in a small boat down to the fort an(1 met Gen- eral Hazei, who had not yet communicated with the gun-boat below, as it was shut out to him by a point of timber. Determined to communi- cate that night, I got another small boat and a crew and pulled down the river till I found the tag Dandelion, Captain Williamson, U. S. Navy, who informed me that Captain Duncan, who had beemi sent by General Howard, had succeeded in reaching Admiral Dahlgren and General Foster, amid that he was expectimig them hourly in Ossabaw Sound. After making communications to those officers, and a short comnmnunication to the War I)epartment, I returned to Fort McAllister that night, and before daylight was overtaken by Major Strong, of Gem eral Fosters staff; advising me that General Foster had arrived iii the Ogeechee, near Fort McAllister, and was very anxious to meet me on board his boat. I accordimi gly returned with him, and met General Foster on board the steamer Nemaha; and after consultation determined to proceed with him down the sound in hopes to meet Admiral Dahigremi. But we did not meet him until we reached Wassaw Sound, about noon. I there went on board the admirals flag-ship, the harvest Moon, after having arranged with General Foster to send us from Hilton Head some siege ordnance and some boats suitable for navigating the Ogee- chee River. Admiral Dahlgren very kimmdly furnished me with all the data concerning his fleet and the mmumerons forts that guarded the inland channels between the sea and Savannah. I explained to him how completely Savannah was invested at all poimits, save only the plank road on the South Carolina shore, known as the Union Causeway, which I thought I could reach from my left flank across the Savannah River. I explained to him that if lie would simply engage the atten- tion of the forts along Wilmington Chammnel, at Beauhica and Itosedew, I thought I could carry the defenses of Savannah by assault as soon as the heavy ordnance arrived from Hilton head. On time Thth the admiral carried me back to Fort McAllister, whence I returned to our lines in the rear of Savannah. Having received and carefully considered all the reports of division commnanders, I determined to assault the lines of the enemy as soon as my heavy ordnance came from Port Royal, first making a formal demamid for surrender. On the 17th, a number of 30-pounder Parrott guns hav- ing reached Kings Bridge, I ))roceeded in person to the headquarters o~ Major-General Slocumn, on the Augusta road, and dispatched thence into Savannah, by flag of truce, a formal demand for the surrender of the place; and on the following day received an answer from General Hardee refusing to surrender. In the meantime further reconnaissances from ommr left flank had demonstrated that it was impracticable or unwise to push amiy consid- erable force across the Savannah River, for the enemy held the river op~)osite the city with iron-clad gun-boats, and could destroy any pon- toons laid down by us between Hutchinsons Island and the South Car- olina shore, which would isolate any force sent over from that flank Page 12 12 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. I therefore ordered General Slocuin to get into position the siege gulls, and make all the preparations necessary to assault, and to report to me the earliest moment when he could be ready, whilst I should proceed rapidly round by the right, and make arrangements to occupy the Unioii Causeway from the direction of Port Royal. General Foster had already established a division of troops on the peninsula or neck between the Coosawhatchie and Tullifinny Rivers, at the head of Broad River, from which position lie could reach the railroad with his artil- lery. I went to Port Royal in person, and made arrangements to re-enforce that command by one or more divisions, under a proper offi- cer, to assault and carry the railroad, arid thence turn toward Savan- nah until it occupied the causeway in question. I went on board the admirals flag-ship, the Harvest Moomi, which put to sea the night of the 20th. But the wimid was high, and imicreased during time night, so that the pilot judged Ossabaw Bar impassable, and ran into Tybee, whence we proceeded through the inland channels into Wassaw Sound, and thence through Romuney Marsh. But tile ebb tide caught the Har- vest Moon and she was unable to make the passage. Admiral Dalil- gren took me in his barge, and pulling in the direction of Vernon River we met the army tug Red Legs, bearing a niessage from my adjutant, Captain iDayton, of that morning, the 21st, to the effect that our troops were in possession of the enemys lines, and were advancing without opposition into Savannah, the enemy having evacuated the place dur- lug the previous iiight. Admiral iDahigren proceeded up tIme Vernon River in his barge, while I transferred to the tug, in which I proceeded to Fort McAllister ,and thence to the rice mill, and on the morning of the 22d rode into the city of Savannah, already occupied by our troops. I was very much disappointed that Hardee had escaped with his garrison, and had to content myself with the material fruits of victory without the cost of life which would have attended a general assault. The substantial results will be more clearly set forth in time tabular statemnents of heavy ordnance and other public property acquired. And it will suffice here to state that the imuportamit city of Savannah, with its valuable harbor and river, was the chief object of the campaign. With it we acquire all the forts and heavy ordimance in its vicinity, with large stores of amumunition, shot and shells, cotton, rice, and other valuable products of the country. We also gain locomotives and cars, which, though of little use to us in the present condition of the rail- roads, are a serious loss to time enemy; as well as four steam-boats gained, and the loss to the enemy of the iron-clad Savannah, one ram, and three transports, blown up or burned by them the night before. Formal demand havilig been imiade for the surremider, and havi ngbeen refused, I contend that everything within the line of iimtreuchmnents be- longs to the United States, and 1 shall miot hesitate to use it, if neces- sary, for public purposes. But inasmuch as the inhabitants generally have manifested a friendly disposition, I shall disturb them as little as possmbl~ consistently with time military rights of present and future military commanders, without remitting in the least our just rights as captors. After having made the necessary orders for the disposition of the troops in aimd about Savaimmmah, I ordered Capt. 0. M. Poe, chief engineer, to mnake a thorough examination of time enemy~s works in and about Savannah, with a view to making it conform to our future uses. New lines of defenses will be built, embracing the city proper; Forts Jackson, Thunderbolt, and Pulaski retained, with slight modifications in their Page 13 Ca& x~. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 13 armament and rear defenses; all the rest of the enemys forts will be dismantled and destroyed, and their heavy ordnance transferred to Hilton Head, where it can be more easily guarded. Our base of sup- plies will be established in Savannah as soon as the very difficult obstruc- tions placed in the river can be partially removed. These obstructions at present offer a very serious impediment to the commerce of Savan- nab, consisting of crib-work of logs and timber heavily bolted together, and filled with the cobble stones which formerly paved the streets of Savannah. All the channels below the city were found more or less filled with torpedoes, which have been removed by order of Admiral Dahigren. So that Savannah already fulfills the important part it was designed in our plans for the future. In thus sketching the course of events connected with this campaign, I have purposely passed lightly over the march from Atlanta to the sea- shore, because it was made in four or more columns, sometimes at a distance of fifteen or twenty miles from each other, and it was impos- sible br me to attend but oiie. Therefore, I have left it to the army and corps commanders to describe in their own language the events which attended the march of their respective columns. These reports are herewith submitted, and I beg to refer to them for further details. I would merely sum up the advantages which 1 conceive have accrued to us by this march. Our former labors in North Georgia had demonstrated the truth that no large army, carrying with it the necessary stores ai~d baggage, can overtake and capture an inferior force of the enemy in his own country. Therefore no alternative was left me but the one I adoptednamely, to divide my forces, and with the one part act offensively against the enemys resources, while with the other I should act defensively, and invite the enemy to attack, risking the chances of battle. In this con- clusion I have been singularly sustained by the results. General Hood, who, as I have heretofore described, had moved to the westward near Tuscumbia, with a view to decoy me away from Georgia, finding him- self mistaken, was forced to choose either to pursue me, or to act offen- sively against the other part left in Tennessee. He adopted the latter course; and General Thomas has wisely and well fulfilled his part of the grand scheme in drawing Hood well up into Tennessee umitil he could concentrate all his own troops and then turn upon Hood, as he has done, and destroy or fatally cripple his army. That part of my army is so far removed from me that I leave, with perfect confidence, its man- agement and history to General Thomas. I was thereby left with a well-appointed army to sever the enemys omily remaining railroad communications eastward and westward, for over 100 milesnamely, the Georgia State Railroad, which is broken up from Fairburn Station to Madison and the Oconee, and the Central Railroad, from Gordon clear to Savannah, with numerous breaks on the latter road from Gordon to Eatonton and from. MilIeu to Augusta, and the Savannah Gulf Railroad. We have also consumed the corn and fodder in the region of country thirty miles on either side of a line from Atlanta to Savannah as also the sweet potatoes, cattle, hogs, sheep and poultry, and have carried away more than 10,000 horses and mules, as well as a countless number of their slaves. I estimate the damage done to the State of Georgia amid its military resources at $100,000,000; at least, $20,000,000 of which has inured to our advantage, and the re- mainder is simple waste and destruction. This may seem a hard species of warfare, but it brings the sad realities of war home to those who have been directly or indirectly instrumental in involvin- us in its attendant calamities Page 14 14 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. The campaign has also placed this branch of my army in a position from which other great military results may be attempted, besides leav- ing in Tennessee and North Alabama a force which is amply sufficient to meet all the chances of war in that region of our country. Since the capture of Atlanta my staff is unchanged, save that Gen- eral Barry, chief of artillery, has been absent, sick, since our leaving Kingston. Surgeon Moore, U. S. Army, is chief medical director, in place of Surgeon Kittoe, relieved to resuii~e his proper duties as a mcd- ical inspector. Major Hitchcock, assistant adjutant-general, has also been added to my staff, and has been of great assistance in the field and office. Captain Dayton still remains as my adjutant-general. All have, as formerly, fulfilled their parts to my entire satisfaction. In the body of my army I feel a just pride. Generals Howard and Slocum are gentlemen ot singular capacity and intelligence, thorough soldiers and patriots, working day and imight, not for themselves, but for their country and their mnen. General Kilpatrick, who commanded the cavalry of this army, has handled it with 5I)irit and dash to my entire satisfaction, and kept a superior force of the enemys cavalry from even approaching our infantry columns or wagon trains. His report is full and graphic. All the (livision amid brigade commanders merit my I)ersollal and official thanks, and I shall spare no efforts to secure them commissions equal to the rank they have exercised so well. As to the rank and file, they seeni so full of confidence in themselves that I doubt if they want a compliment from me; but I mnust do them the justice to say that whether called on to fight, to mnarch, to wade streams, to make roads, clear out obstructions, build bridges, make corduroy, or tear np railroads, they have done it with alacrity and a degree of cheerfulness unsurpassed. A little loose in foraging, they did some things they ought not to have done, yet, on the whole, they have supplied the wants of the army with as little violence as could be expected, and as little loss as I calculated. Some of these foraging parties had encounters with the enemy which would in ordi- nary times rank as respectable battles. The behavior of our troops in Savannah has been so manly, so qHiet, so perfect, that I take it as the best evidence of disciplimie and true courage. Never was a hostile city, filled with women and children, occupied by a large army with less dis- order, or more system, order, and good government. The same general and generous spmrit of confidence and good feeling pervades the armny which it has ever afforded me especial pleasure to report on. former occasions. I avail myself of this occasion to express my heartfelt thanks to Admiral Dahlgren and the officers and muen of his fleet, as also to Gen- eral Foster and his command, for the hearty welcome given us on our arrival at the coast, and for their ready and prompt co-operation in all measures temiding to the result accomupl i shed. I send herewith a mnap* of the country through which we have passed; reports from General Howard, General Slocum, and General Kilpat- rick, and their subordinates, respectively, with the usual lists of cap- tured property, killed, wounded, and missing, prisoners of war taken and rescued; as also copies of all papers illustrating the camnpaign. All of which is respectfully submitted, by your obedient servant, W. T. SHERMAN, IlIajor- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff, Washington City, D. C. * To appear in the Atlas Page 15 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 15 Return of casualties and prisoners captured by the army in the field in can~paign of Georgia. Killed. Wounded. Missin~. Captured. Command. a . . a a . a ao a a ~ a a ~ .a 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ ~ 0 ~ Right Wing, Army of the Tennessee 34 632 666 Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard command- in~ Left?Wing, Fourteenth anti Twentieth 2 23 1 258 402 30 409 439 Corps, Maj. Gen. H. W. Slocum com- manding. Cavalry Division, Brig. Gen. J. Ku 3 35 163 13 220 233 patrick commanding. Total 5 58 33 232 1 258 567 77 1,261 1,338 Report of casualties in Army of Tennessee not received. Report of missing in cavalry division not received. L. M. DAYTON, Captain and Aide-de-Gamp. [Indorsement.] This report is not sufficiently accurate to be official, but my com- mand is so scattered that it cannot now be remedied, but will be in due time. W. T. SHERMAN, Major- Gen oral, Commanding. ADDENDA. Abstract from returns shoscing the effective strength of the army in the field under Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, November and December, 1864. NOVEMBER 10. Command. ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE. Fifteenth Army Corps Seventeenth Army Corps Total ARMY OF GEORGIA. Fourteenth Army Corps Twentieth Army Corps Total Kilpatricks cavalry Aggregate 376 266 1,144 25,235 2 43 16 642 556 12.397 11 388 602 32,802 25 607 1,158 25,259 36 995 2, 302 50, 494 244 4, 672 4 246 4, 715 56 95 1,732 Cuip. LVI.] 724 34.568 11 420 II), 667 2 43 Page 16 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Ab8tract from returns showing the effectire strength of the army, 4~c.Coutinu~d. NOVEMBER 30. Infantry. Command. ~1 0 ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE. Fifteenth Army Corps 750 15, 144 Seventeenth Army Corps 11,314 Total 1,168 26,458 ARMY OF GEORGIA. Fourteenth Army Corps 623 13, 339 Twentieth Army Corps 638 13, 103 Total 1, 261 26,442 Kilpatricks cavalry .. Aggregate 2,429 52, 900 Cavalry. 0 2 9 Artillery. a 0 ~, 17 30 10 30 27 11 22 362 318 680 443 529 33 972 251 4,780 4 96 253 4,830 64 1,748 DECEMBER 20. ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE. Fifteenth Army Corps 753 14, 441 Seventeenth Army Corps 436 11, 293 2 Total 1, 189 25, 734 2 ARMY OF GEORGIA. Fonrteenth Army Corps 621 13, 170 Twentieth Army Corps 631 12,910 Total 1,252 26,080~ Kilpatricks cavalry - -~ 201 Aggregate 2,441 53,814 203 30 30 12 7 19 . 11 24 35 4,351 4 4,381 58 367 278 645 434 526 960 96 1, 701 RECAPITLTL ATION. November 10. 52,796 4,961 1, 788 November 30.1 December 20. 55, 329 54, 255 5,063 4,584 1,832 1,759 Arm. Infantry Cavalry Artillery ____________ ____________ Aggregate 59, 545 62, 204 60,598 SPECIAL ) IIDQRS. MIL. Div. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, FIELD ORDERS, In the Field, & trtinn~h, Ga., No. 6. ) January 8~ 1865. The general commanding announces to tile troops colnposii~g the Military Division of the Mississippi that he has received from the President of the United States, aild from Lieuteiiant-General Grant, letters conveying their high Seilse a11(i appreciation of the campaign just close~ resulting in the capture of Savannah aiA the defeat of Hoods army in Tenuessee. 1 Page 17 Ciw. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 17 In order that all may understand the importance of events it is proper to revert to the situation of affairs in Septeiinber last. We held Atlanta, a city of little value to us, but so important te the enemy that Mr. Davis, the head of the rebellious faction in the South, visited his army near Palmetto and commanded it to regain it, as well as to ruin atid destioy us by a series of measures which he thought would be effectual. That army, by a rapid march, gained our railroad near Big Shanty, and afterward about Dalton. We pursued it, but it moved so rapidly that we could not overtake it, and General Hood led his army successfully far over toward Mississippi, in hopes to decoy us out of Georgia; but we were not then to be led away by him, and preferred to lead and control events ourselves. Generals Thomas and Schofield, commanding the departments to our rear, returned to their posts aiid prepared to decoy General Hood into their meshes, whilst we came on to complete the original journey. We quietly and deliberately destroyed Atlanta and all the railroads which the enemy had used to carry on war against us, occupied his State capital, and then captured his commercial capital, which had been so strongly fortified from the sea as to defy approach from that quarter. Almost at the moment of our victorious entry into savannah came the welcome and expected news that our comrades in Tennessee had also fulfilled nobly and well their part; had decoyed General Hood to iNashville and then turned on him, defeating hjs arniy thoroughly, capturing all his artillery, great numbers of prisoners, and were still pursuing the fragments down into Alabama. So complete a success in military operations, extending over half a continent, is an achievement that entitles it to a place iii the military history of the world. The armies serving in Georgia and Tennessee, as well as the local garrisons of Decatur, Bridgeport, Chattanooga, and Murfreesborough, are alike entitled to the common honors, and each regiment may inscribe on its colors at pleasure the words ~ or Nashville. The general commanding embraces in the same general success the oper. ations of the cavalry column, under Generals Stoneman, Burbridge, and Gillem, that penetrated into Southwest Virginia amid paralyzed the efforts of the enemy to disturb the peace and safety of East Tennessee. Instead of being put omi the defensive, we have at all points assumed the bold offensive, and completely thwarted the designs of the enemies of our country. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman: L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de.Gamp. STATE OF CALIFORNIA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Maj. Gen. ~. T. SHERMAN, Sacramento, January 2, 1865. Savannah: The series of victories which have attemided your army during the past yearthe capture of Atlamita, the triumphant march from Atlanta to the sea-coast, and the subsequent capture of Savannahhave filled the hearts of all who love their country with joy, .and justly entitles you to the profound gratitude of the nation. For and on behalf of the people of this State I beg to tender to you, and through you to the officers and soldiers under your command, my heartfelt thanks for the signal. serv~ 2 R RVOL XLI Page 18 (CHAP. LVI. 18 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. ices your army has rendered to the cause of civilization, liberty, human- ity, and good government. To you as their great leader I tender my cordial congratulations, with the prayer that God may preser.ve and protect you to lead the victorious hosts of the Republic on to still greater victories, even to the conquering of an honorable and perma- nent peace. I remain, general, gratefully, your obedient servant, FREDK F. LOW, Governor. STATE OF NEW YORK, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Albany, January 18, 1865. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM T. SHERMAN: GENERAL: In compliance with the request made in joint resolutions passed by the senate and assembly of the State of New York com- mendatory of the conduct and services of certain officers in the Army and Navy of the United States, I take great pleasure in forwarding to you the inclosed resolution referring to yourself and the brave officers and men in your command. I most sincerely join in the expression of thanks fqr these distinguished services, and, with the loyal people of the nation, acknowledge my deep and heartfelt gratitude. I am, general, niost respectfully, your obedient servant, H. E. FENTON. [Inclosure.] CONCURRENT RESOLUTIONS complimentary to Generals Grant, Sherman, Sheridan, and Thomas, and to Vice-Admiral Farragnt and Commodore Winslow. * * * * * * * Resolved, That the thanks of the Legislature representing the people of the State of New York are hereby tendered to Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, and the officers and men of his command, for the series of superb victories culminating in the capture of Atlanta~ and for the skillfully executed march from the mountains to the sea, which chal- lenged the admiration of the world, resulted in the capture of Savan- nah, with many millions of public property, and demonstrated that the so-called Confederacy is indeed but a shell. Resolved, That His Excellency the Governor is hereby respectfully requested to transmit a copy of each of the foregoing resolutions to the officers specially named therein. IN SENATE, January 5, 1865. The foregoing resolutions were duly passed. JAS. TEIRWILLIGEIR, Clerk. STATE OF NEW YORK, IN ASSEMBLY, January 13, 1865. Resolved, That the assembly concur in the passage of the foregoing resolutions. By order: J. B. CUSHMAN, Clerk Page 19 CILAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 19 No. 2. Organization of the Union Forces, commanded by Maj. Gen. William T. i~herman. HEADQUARTERS GUARD. 7th Company Ohio Sharpshooters, Lie~it. James Cox. ENGINEERS. 1st Missouri (five companies), Lieut. Col. William Tweeddaje. RIGHT WIYG. Maj. Gen. OLIVER 0. HOWARD. ESCORT. 15th Illinois Cavalry, Company K, Lieut. John A. McQueen 4th Company Ohio Cavalry, Capt. John L. King. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. PETER J. OSTERHAUS. FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. CHARLES R. WOODS. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. MILO SMITH. Brig. Gen. CHARLES C. W~icurr.* Col. ROBERT F. CATrERSON. 12th Indiana, Maj. Elbert D. Baldwin. 26th Illinois, Capt. George H. Reed. 26th Iowa, Maj. John Lubbers. 27th Missouri, Col. Thomas Curly. 40th Illinois, Li~ut. Col. Hiram W. Hall. 29th Missouri, Lient. Col. Joseph S. Gage. 103d Illinois, Maj. Asias Willison. 31st and 32d Missouri Battalion, Maj. 97th Indiana: Abraham J. Seny. Col. Robert F. Catterson. 76th Ohio, Col. William B. Woods. Capt. George Elliott. 100th Indiana, Maj. Ruel M. .Johnson. 6th Iowa, Maj. William H. Chine. 46th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Isaac N. Alexan- der. Third Brigade. Col. JAMES A. WILLIAMSON. 4th Iowa, Lient. Col. Samuel D. Nichols. 9th Iowa, Capt. Paul McSweeney. 25th Iowa, Col. George A. Stone. 30th Iowa, Lieut. Col. Aurelius Roberts. 31st Iowa, Lietit. Col. Jeremiah W. Jenkins. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM B. HAZEN. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. THEODORE JONES. Col. WELLS S. JONES.t Col. JAMES S. MARTIN. 55th Illinois, Capt. Charles A. Andress. 111th Illinois: 116th Illinois, Lient. Col. John E. Mad- Col. James S. Martin. dux. Maj. William M. Mabry. 127th Illinois, Capt. Charles Schryver. 83d Indiana,Lieut.Col. George H. Scott. 6th Missouri, LieRt. Col. Delos Van 37th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Louis von Bles- Deusen. singh. 8th Missouri (two companies), Capt. 47th Ohio, Col. Augustus C. Parry. John W. White. 53d Ohio, Capt. David H. Lasley. 30th Ohio, Capt. Emory W. Muenscher. 54th Ohio, Lient. Col. Israel T. Moore. 57th Ohio, Maj. John McClure. * Wounded November 22. t Wounded December 13 Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. Third Brigade. Col. JOHN M. OLIVER. 48th Illinois, Maj. Edward Adams. 90th Illinois, Lieut. Col. Owen Stuart. 99th Indiana, Lient. Col. John M. Berkey. 15th Michigan, Lient. Cot Frederick S. Hutchinson. 70th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Henry L. Philips. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. JOHN E. SMITH. Fir8t Brigade. Col. JOSEPH B. MCCowN. 63d flhinois, Lieut.Col. James Isaminger. 93d Illinois,*Lleut. Col. Nicholas C. Bus- well. 48th Indiana,Lieut. Col. Edward J.Wood. 59th Indiana, Lient. Col. Jefferson K. Scott. 4th Minnesota, CoiJolinE. Tourtellotto. FOURTH DIVISION. Second Brigade. Bvt. Brig. Gen. GREEN B. RAUM. 56th Illinois, Capt. James P. Files. 10th Iowa, Lient. Col. Paris P. Hender- son. 26th Missouri,t Col. Benjamin D. Dean. 80th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Pren Metham. Brig. Gen. JOHN M. CORSE. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. ELLIOTT W. RICE. Col. ROBERT N. ADAMS. 52d Illinois: 12th Illinois, Lieut.Col.Henry Van Sellar. Maj. Wesley Boyd. 66th Illinois, Lieut. ColAndrew K. Camp- Lient. Cot Jerome D. Davis. bell. 66th Indiana, Lient. Col. Roger Martin. 81st Ohio, Maj. William C. Henry. 2d Iowa, Lieut. Col. Noel B. Howard. 7th Iowa, Lient. Col. James C. Parrott. Third Brigade. Lient. Col. FREDERICK J. HURLBUT. 7th Illinois, Lient. Col. Hector Perrin. 50th Illinois, Capt. Henry Horn. 57th Illinois, Capt. Frederick A. Battey. 39th Iowa, Maj. Joseph M. Griffiths. ARTILLERY. Maj. CHARLES J. STOLBRAND. 1st Illinois Light, Battery H, Capt. Francis De Gress. 1st Michigan Light, Battery B, Capt. Albert F. R. Arndt. 1st Missouri Light, Battery H, Lient. John F. Brunner. Wisconsin Light, 12th Battery, Capt. William Zickeriok. * Non-veterans 18th Wisconsin attached. tPet~chmeRt 10th Missouri attaehe4, [OEh.?. LVI Page 21 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. -Gen. FRANK P. BLMR, Jr. ESCORT. 11th Illinois Cavalry, Company (1, Capt. Stephen S. Tripp. FIRST DIVISION. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH A. Mowi~. Fir8t Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHN W. FULLER. 64th illinois, Capt. Joseph S. Reynolds. 18th Missouri, Lieut. Col. Charles S. Shel- don. 27th Ohio, Capt. James Morgan. 39th Ohio, Capt. Daniel Weber. Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHN W. SPRAGUE. 35th New Jersey, Col. John J. Cladek. 43d Ohio, Col. Wager Swayne. 63d Ohio, Maj. John W. Fonts. 2~th Wisconsin, Lieut. Col. Jeremiah M Ruak. Third Brigade. Col. JOHN TILLSON. 10th Illinois, Lient. Col. McLain F. Wood. 25th Indiana, Maj. James S. Wright. 32d Wisconsin, Col. Charles H. De Groat. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. MORTIMER D. LEGGETT. Provo8t Guard. 20th Illinois, Capt. Henry King. Second Brigade. Col. ROBERT K. SCOTT. 20th Ohio, Capt. Lyman N. Ayres. 68th Ohio, Lient. Col. George E. Welles. 78th Ohio, Col. Greenberry F. Wiles. 17th Wisconsin, Maj. Patrick H. Mc. Canloy. Fir8t Brigade. Brig. Gen. MANNING F. FORCE. 30th Illinois, Lieut. Col. . William C. Rhoads. 31st Illinois, Lient. Col. Robert N. Pear- son. 45th Illinois, Maj. John 0. Duer. 12th Wisconsin, Lieut. Col. James K. Prondfit. 16th Wisconsin, Maj. William F. Dawes. FOURTH DIVISION. Brig. Gen. GILEs A. SMITH. .Fir8t Brigade. Col. BENJAMIN F. Porrs. 14th Illinois (battalion), Lient. Alonzo 15th Illinois J. Gillespie. 41st Illinois (battalion), Maj. Robert H. McFadden. 53d Illinois, Col. John W. McClanahan. 23d Indiana, Lient. Col. George S. Bab. bitt. 53d Indiana, Capt. Henry Duncan. 32d Ohio, Lient. Col. Jefferson J. Hib- bets. Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM W. BELKNAP. 32d Illinois, Maj. Henry Davidson. 11th Iowa, Capt. Benjamin Beach. 13th Iowa, Capt. Justin C. Kennedy. 15th Iowa, Maj. George Pomntz. 16th Iowa, Capt. Crandall W. Williams. Cx.& p. LYI.] 2 Page 22 22 OPERATIONS IN S~ C., GA., AND FLA. (C~ir. LYL ARTILLERY. Maj. ALLEN C. WATERHOUSE. 1st Michigan Light, Battery C, Lieut. Henry Shier. Minnesota Light, 1st Battery, Lieut. Henry Hurter. Ohio Light, 15th Battery, Lient. George R. Caspar. LEFT WING. Maj. Gen. HENRY W. SLOCUM. PONTONIERS. 58th Indiana, Col. George P. Buell. ENGINEERS. 1st Michigan (detachment), Maj. John B. Yates. FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Bvt. Maj. Gen. JEFFERSON C. DAVIS. FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM P. CARLIN. First Brigade. Second Brigare. Col. HARRISON C. HOBART. Lient. Col. JOSEPH H. BRIGHAM. 104th Illinois, Lieut. Col. Douglas Hape- 13th Michigan, Lieut. Col. Theodoric R. man. Palmer. 42d Indiana, Capt. Gideon R. Kellams. 21st Michigan, Maj. Benton D. Fox. 88th Indiana, Lient. Col. Cyrus E. 69th Ohio, Capt. Lewis E. Hicks. Briant. 33d Ohio, Capt. Joseph Hinson. 94th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Rue P. Hutchins. 21st Wisconsin, Lient. Col. Michael H. Fitch. Third Brigade. Col. HENRY A. HAMBRIGHT.* Lieut. Col. DAVID MiLES. 38th Indiana, Capt. James H. Low. 21st Ohio, Lieut. Col. Arnold McMahan. 74th Ohio: Maj. Joseph Fisher. Maj. Robert P. Findley. 79th Pennsylvania: Lieut. Col. David Miles. Maj. Michael H. Locher. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. JAMES D. MORGAN. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. ROBERT F. SMITH. Lieut. Col. JOHN S. PEARCE. 16th Illinois, Lieut. Col. James B. Cahill. 34th Illinois, Capt. Peter Ege. 60th Illinois, Col. William B. Anderson. 78th Illinois, Lieut. Col. Mans R. Ver- 10th Michigan, Col. Charles M. Lum non. 14th Michigan, Maj. Thomas C. Fitzgib- 98th Ohio, Capt. James R. McLaughlin. hon. 108th Ohio, Maj. Frederick Beck. 17th New York, Licut. Col. Joel 0. Mar- 113th Ohio, Capt. Toland Jones. tin. 121st Ohio, Maj. Aaron B. Robinson. ~ Sick from November 18 Page 23 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. Third Brigade. Lient. Col. JAMES W. LANGLEY. 85th Illinois, Maj. Robert G. Rider. 86th Illinois, Lient Col. Allen L. Fahnestock. 110th Illinois (four companies), Lieut. Col. E. Hibbard Topping. 125th Illinois, Capt. George W. Cook. 22d Indiana, Capt. William H. Snodgrass. 52d Ohio, Lieut. Col. Charles W. Clancy. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. ABSALOM BAIRD. First Brigade. Col. MORTON C. HUNTER. Second Brigade. Col. NEWELL GLEASON. 82d Indiana, Lient. Col. John M. Ma- theny. 23d Missouri, Lient. Col. Quin Morton. 17th Ohio, Lient. Col. Benjamin H. Show- ers. 31st Ohio, Capt. Michael Stone. 89th Ohio, Lieut. Col. William H. Glenn. 92d Ohio, * Col. Benjamin D. Fearing. Third Brigade. Col. GEORGE P. ESTE. 74th Indiana, Lient. Col. Thomas Morgan. 18th Kentucky, Lient. Col. Hubbard K. Milward. 14th Ohio, Lient. Col. Albert Moore. 38th Ohio, Capt. Charles M. Gilbert. ARTILLERY. Maj. CHARLES HOUGHTALING. 1st fllinois Light, Battery C, t Lieut. Joseph R. Channel. 2d Illinois Light, Battery I, Lient. Alouzo W. Coe. Indiana Light, 19th Battery, Capt. William P. Stackhouse. Wisconsin Light, 5th Battery, Lient. Joseph McKnight. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS. Brig. Gen. ALPHEUS S. WILLIAMS. FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. NATHANIEL J. JACKSON. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. JAMES L. SELFRIDGE. Col. EZRA A. CARMAN. 5th Connecticut, Lient. Col. Henry W. 2d Massachusetts, Col. William Cogs Daboll. well. 123d New York, Lient. Col. James C. 13th New Jersey, Maj. Frederick H. Har- Rogers. ris. 141st New York, Capt. William Merrell. 107th New York: 46th Pennsylvania, Maj. Patrick Grif- Capt. Charles J. Fox. fith. Lieut. Col. Allen N. Sill. 150th New York: Maj. Alfred B. Smith. Col. John H. Ketcham. 3d Wisconsin, Col. William Hawley. *CoInpany A, 24th Illinois attached. Detachment 11th Ohio Infantry attached. 75th Indiana, Maj. Cyrus J. McCole. 87th Indiana, Lient. Col. Edwin P. Ham mond. 101st Indiana, Lient. Col. Thomas Doan. 2d Minnesota, Lient. Col. Judson W. Bishop. 105th Ohio, Lient. Col. George T. Perkins. CHAP. LVI.] 2 Page 24 24 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. Third Brigade. Col. JAMES S. ROBINSON. 82d Illinois, Maj. Ferdinand H. Roishausen. 101st Illinois, Lient. Col. John B. Le Sage. 143d New York, Lieut. Col. Hezekiah Watkins. 61st Ohio, Capt. John Garrett. 524 Ohio, Lieut. Col. David Thomson. 31st Wisconsin, Col. Francis H. West. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. JOHN W. GEARY. First Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. ARIO PARDEE, jr. Col. PATRICK H. JONES. 5th Ohio, Lient. Col. Robert Kirkup. 33d New Jersey, Col. George W. Mmdii. 29th Ohio: 119th New York, Col. John T. Lockman. Maj. Myron T. Wright.~ 134th New York, Lieut. Col. Allan H. Capt. Jonas Schoonover. Jackson. 66th Ohio, Lient. Col. Eugene Powell. 154th New York, Maj. Lewis D. Warner. 28th Pennsylvania, Col. John Flynn. 73d Pennsylvania, Maj. Charles C. Cres- 147th Pennsylvania,t Lieut. Col. John son. Craig. 109th Pennsylvania, Capt. Walter G. Dunn. Third Brigade. Col. HENRY A. BARNUM. 60th New York, Ma Thomas Elliott. 1024 New York. Lient. Col. Harvey S. Chatfield. 137th New York, Lient. Col. Koert S. Van Voorhis. 149th New York, Maj. Nicholas Grumbach. 29th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Samnel M. Zulich. 111th Pennsylvania, Lient. Col. Thomas M. Walker. THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM T. WARD. Pir8t Brigade. Second Brigade. Col. FRIVNKLIN C. SMITH. Col. DANIEL DUsTIN. 102d Illinois, Maj. Hiland H. Clay. 334 Indiana, Lient. Col. James E. Bur- 105th Illinois, Maj. Henry D. Brown. ton. 129th Illinois, Col. Henry Case. 85th Indiana, Lieut. Col. Alexander B. 70th Indiana, Lieut. Col. Samuel Mer- Crane. nh. 19th Michigan, Lieut. Col. John J. Baker. 79th Ohio, Lient. Col. Azariah W. Doan. 22d Wisconsin, Lient. Col. Edward Bloodgood. Third Brigade. Col. SAMUEL Ross. 20th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. Philo B. Buckingham. 334 Massachnsetts, Lient. Col. Elisha Doane. 136th New York, Lient. Col. Lester B. Faulkner. 55th Ohio, Lient. Col. Edwin II. Powers. 734 Ohio, Lient. Col. Samuel H. Hurst. 26th Wisconsin, Lient. Col. Frederick C. Winkler. * ~To,1nded December 19. Detachment Battery E, Pennsylvania Artillery, attached Page 25 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. ARTILLERY. Maj. JOHN A. REYNOLDS. 1st New York Light, Battery I, Capt. Charles E. Winegar. 1st New York Light, Battery M, Licut. Edward P. Newkirk. 1st Ohio Light, Battery C, Capt. Marco B. Gary,* Lieut. Jerome B. Stephens. Pennsylv& nia Light, Battery E, Capt. Thomas S. Sloan. CAVALRY. THIRD DIVISiON. Brig. Gen. JUDSON KILPATRICK. Fir8t Brigade. Col. ELI H. MURRAY. 8th Indiana, Lieut. Col. Fielder A. Jones. 2d Kentucky: Capt. Joseph T. Forman. Capt. Robert M. Gilmore. 3d Kentucky, Lieut. Col. Robert H. King. 5th Kentucky, Col. Oliver L. Baldwin. 9th Pennsylvania, Col. Thomas J. Jordan. Second Brigade. Col. SMITH D. ATKINS. 92d Illinois (mounted infantry), Lieut. Col. Matthew Van Buskirk. 3d Indiana, Capt. Charles U. Patton. 9th Michigan, Col. George S. Acker. 5th Ohio, Col. Thomas T. Heath. 9th Ohio, Col. William D. Hamilton. 10th Ohio, Lieut. Col. Thomas W. San- derson. McLanghlins (Ohio) Squadron, Capt. John Daizell. Unattached. 1st Alabama Cavalry,t Col. George E. Spencer. 9th Illinois Mounted Infantry,t Lieut. Col. Samuel T. Hughes. Artillery. 10th Wisconsin Battery, Capt. Yates V. Beebe. No. 3. Itinerary of the Union Forces, November 1December 31, 18644 BIGHT WING.~S FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS.II November 1.The First and Second Divisions continued the march from Cave Spring. November 8.Reached Smyrna Camp-Gronnd. November 13.Marched to White Hall. November 15.Left White Hall, followed up by the Third and Fonrth Divisions; from which time the corps continued marching nntil the end of the month. * Captured December 12. t Serving with the Left Wing. ~ From returns of the commands indicated. ~ Commanded by Maj. Gen. Oliver 0. Howard. II Commanded by Maj. Gen. Peter J. Osterhaus. CHAP. LVI.] 2 Page 26 26 OPERATIONS IN S. C, GA., AND FLA. [CH~.P. LVI. First Division. [November.]During the past month this division has marched from Cave Spring, Ga., to this point (near Milieu, Ga.), starting Novem- ber 15 from White Hall, Ga., with the expedition of Geneial Sherman against some, as yet unknown, point in the Southern Confederacy; distance marched thus far about 200 miles. The division has been engaged in destroying parts of the railroad from Macon to Augusta, as well as the line from Savannah to Macon. November 22.Part of the division (Second Brigade) was attacked by three brigades of Georgia militia near Griswoldville, some ten miles from Macon. The enemy were repulsed and left the field with dead and wounded in our hamids. Loss on the Union side was 13 killed, 69 wounded, and 2 missing. Enemys acknowledged loss, 614. December 1.This division was beyond Sculls Creek, Ga., and on the march. December 10.Reached position in rear of Savannah on the right of the Ogeechee Canal. December 11.Moved at night to the right, and connected with Gen- eral Corses (Fourth) division, Fifteenth Army Corps, with left on the main road from Savannah to Kings Ferry. December 21.The army entered, this division marching in on the Kings Bridge road; took position on the south side of the city. First Brigade, First Division. November 1.The brigade left its camp at Cave Spring, Ga., march. ing, via Powder Springs, to Smyrna Camp-Ground, near Vinings Sta- tion, Ga., at which place we remained in camp six days. Received pay and drew clothing. November 13.Marched, via Chattahoochee River railroad bridge, through Atlanta to White Hall. November 15.Took up line of march on East Point road, passing via Rough and Ready, McDonough, and Clinton, striking the Savannah and Macon Railroad near Griswold, Ga., destroying about three miles of railroad and burning a bridge, marching the next day toward Gor- don and Irwinton, and is yet on the march at this date near the rail. road, on Deep Creek, in Emanuel County, Ga. Troops in good health and fine condition for the march. [December.]Being on the march on the 1st of the month, we con- tinued the march to the Ogeechee River. December 10.Crossed the river and marched along the canal which runs from the Ogeechee to the Savannah River. Filing right we struck the Kings Bridge road seven miles from Savannah, where we remained from the 13th to the 21st, taking up a position in front of the enemy, near Owens Bridge, on the plank road, putting up works and having one regiment occupying the works supporting a battery. During that time the Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry was ordered to report to Major-General Howard, and has been on duty at Doctor Cheves rice plantation, on the Ogeechee River. December 21.It was found that the enemy had evacuated Savannah on the previous night, and the brigade marched inside the inner works about 10 oclock. The Seventy-sixth Ohio is now on duty as provost guard. The Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry has been removed from the Ogeechee River and now garrisons Forts Rosedew and Beaulien, on Wassaw Sound. The brigade lost no men during the month in action. Health of the troops good. We are now inside the works, one mile from the city Page 27 LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 27 Second Division. [November.]During the month the division has marched from Cave Spring, Ga., via Yinings Station, Atlanta, Rough and Ready, MeDonough, Indian Springs, Ocmnlgee Mills, ililisborough, Clinton, Larksvflle, Irwinton, Balls Ferry, Irwins Cross-Roads, and Summer- yule, Ga., and is still marching in a southeasterly direction toward the coast. The division has participated iii all the skirmishes in which the .corps was engaged. During the month the division has received some 800 recruits. December 1.Marched from Summerville, Ga., in a southeasterly direc- tion. December 9.Crossed the Cannouchee River in the morning, struck the Gulf railroad near Eden, destroying between six and ten miles of the road. December 1O.Recrossed the Cannouchee, and moved to a point near the junction of the Cannouchee and Ogeechee, and crossed in good order. December 13.In the morning crossed the Ogeechee at Kings Bridge and took up our line of march for Fort McAllister; invested the fort at 3.30 oclock; stormed at 4.30 oclock. The flags of nine regiments were planted on the fort in ten miiiutes from the time the order to charge was given. Our loss was 4 commissioned officers and 20 men killed, and 7 commissioned officers and 103 men wounded. The enemys loss was 14 killed, 21 wounded, and 195 prisoners (unhurt), imicluding 1 officer killed and 17 captured; total, 230. The fort contained 11 siege guns, 1 10-inch mortar, 12 field pieces, and 60 tons of ammunition, and a large amount of commissary stores and liquors. December 14.Went into camp oii Middletons plantation, near the fort. December 17 to 21.Made a thorough destruction of the Gulf rail- road from the Ogeecliee River to Walthourville, a distance of thirty miles. December 21 to 31.hi camp near the fort. All the guns, ammuni- tion, & c., moved out. The following is a repetition of losses, & c., since December 1: 4 commissioned officers killed, 7 wounded, and 2 captured; 20 enlisted men killed, 111 wounded, aiid 38 captured. The division has killed and captured from the enemy 19 officers and 231 men; total, 250. Total number of miles marched during the month, 121. First Brigade, Second Division. November 1.The brigade, with the division, corps, and army, marched from Cave Spring, Ga. November 4.Arrived at Smnyrna Camp-Ground, where it remained until the 9th, assisting in the destruction of the railroad, receiving pay in the meantime. November 9.Moved to Atlanta, where the command was refitted with clothing; thence southward. November 16 [20~].Arrived at Clinton, Ga., where a portion of the brigade was engaged with the enemys cavalry and routed them; since which time it has been constantly on the move. December 1.Marched from Summerville, Ga Page 28 28 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (Cx~. Lvi. December 10.Arrived in front of Savannah in the afternoon, in which position the brigade remained until the afternoon of the 12th, when we broke camp and marched to Kings Bridge, on the Ogeechee River. December 13.Crossed the river and marched to Fort McAllister, Ga., arriving at 2 p. m. The brigade took an active part in the assaalt and capture of the fort, which was carried in gallant style at 5 p. m. December 14.Went into camp at White Hall, Ga., assisting in the destruction of the Gulf railroad during the balance of the month. Third Division. November 12.Having concentrated at Cartersville and Allatoona, %3~a., and the sick, surplus camp and garrison equipage, baggage, & c., haviiig been sent to the rear, the division started for Atlanta, Ga., to rejoin the corps (Fifteenth), arriving at that place and encamping near White Hall on the 14th. At Atlanta the command was supplied with the necessary quartermasters store~s. November 15.The division started south from Atlanta, since which time it has marched via McDonough, Jackson (crossing Ocmulgee River at Seven Islands), Hillsborough, Clinton, and Gordon (at which time the command tore up four miles of railroad), Irwinton (crossing the Oconee River about four miles below the railroad bridge, at Balls Ferry), and Irwins Cross-Roads; from thence moving on the extreme right to Summerville. December 1.The division started from Summerville and marched via Cannouchee, Statesborough, crossing the Ogeechee River at Jenks Bridge; thence marching between the Little and Big Ogeechee Rivers to Bethel Church, on the Savannah Canal. December 10.The supply train was left in camp, and the division moved up on south side of canal to a point about four miles and a half from Savannah, at which point the enemy were met; skirmished with them during the 10th and 11th; evening of the 11th moved toward the right to Andersons plantation. December 12.Marched to Millers Station (No. 1), on Gulf railroad, remaining at that place until the 21st, and then, the enemy having evacuated, the command moved into its present camp in the suburbs of the city. During the campaign the command cut about ten miles of road through the woods, corduroyed over 5,000 yards of impassable roads, and destroyed 800 bales of cotton. First Brigade, Third Division. [November.]Brigade continued to do garrison duty at Cartersville and Allatoona, Ga., up to the 12th, when we broke camp and marched for Atlanta, Ga. November 14.Arrived at Atlanta at 3 p. m. November 15.Left Atlanta at 9.30; marched about fifteen miles. November 16.Marched to McDonough. November 17.Marched twenty-two miles, passing through Jackson. November 18.Marched two miles beyond Gemulgee Mills, having crossed Gemulgee River at this point. November 19.Marched seventeen miles, passing Hillsborough. November 20.Encamped near Clinton Page 29 Cuip. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 29 November 21.Marched seven miles. November 22.Encamped at Gordon. November 23 and 24.Remained at Gordon. November 25.Marched to Irwinton; twelve miles. November 26.Marched eleven miles. November 27.Crossed Oconee River; encamped six miles beyond. November 28 to 30.Continued marching, and arrived at Summer- ville; no fighting; plenty to eat, and all in good spirits. December 1.Left bivouac near Summerville; marched toward Savannah. December 9.Crossed Ogeechee River near Edwins [Eden 0?] Station and bivouacked at the Ogeechee Canal, fourteen miles from Savannah; met the enemy strongly intrenched and skirmished until dark. December 11.Ordered around to the right; went into camp near Station No. 1, Gulf railroad, on the 12th, where command remained until the 21st, when it moved into Savannah and encamped on the out- skirts of the city. Distance marched during the month, 110 miles. The general health of the command has been excellent throughout the month. Second Brigade, Third Division. November 2.Pursuant to orders from Brig. Gen. John E. Smith, the Tenth Iowa and Twenty-sixth Missouri, stationed at and near Kings- ton, Ga., on the Atlantic and Western Railroad, marched for Carters- ville, headquarters of the division, arriving there on the 3d. November 7.The Fifty-sixth Illinois, Eightieth Ohio, and Battalion Tenth Missouri, marched from Resaca en route for Cartersyille, arriving there on the 8th. November 12.The entire command, under Bvt. Brig. Gen. Green B. Raum, marched for Atlanta, via Allatoona, Acworth, and Marietta. November 11.Arrived at Atlanta. November 15.The command, after being supplied with quartermas- ters stores, started south on campaign, since which time the march has been continued without anything of importance occurring. December 1.Marched from Suinmerville, Ga., at 9 a. m. December 7.Encamped near Big Ogeechee River. December 9.Crossed Ogeechee and entered lirst line of rebel defenses; encamped near canal. December 10.Marched down south bank of c~anal; came upon the enemy about five miles from Savannah; found them posted behind an impassable swamp; drove their skirmishers from swamp, ~j~d fortified during the night. December 11.Moved out from works and marched about two miles to the right; during the night marched still farther to the right and went into bivouac. December 12.Marched to. near Millers Station, on Gulf railroad, crossing road, and took up a new position. December 13.Demonstrated while the Second Division assaulted Fort McAllister. December 21.Enemy evacuated Savannah last night and we marched in side rebel works and went into camp on the south side of city. December 23.Changed camp. December 24.Army corps reviewed by General Sherman Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Fourth Division. November 11.Fortifications at Rome, Ga., were dismantled, and the division took up its line of march to join its corps at Atlanta, Ga., and from there proceeded with General Shermans army on the campaign then commenciii g. The division marched during the month [November] the distance of about 260 miles. First Brigade, Fourth Division. [November.]The brigade has taken part in the campaign, leaving Rome, Ga., on the 11th, marching with the army to this place [Slaters Mills]. [December.]The brigade marched with the army of General Sher- man from Slaters Mills, Ga., to Savannah, skirmishing with the enemy at Jenks Bridge and on the Little Ogeechee River, losing 2 men killed and 9 wounded. Second Brigade, Fourth Division. [Novernber.]T his brigade was engaged doing garrison duty at Rome, Ga., until the 11th, when, with the division, it proceeded to Atlanta, Ga., to join its corps, where it arrived on the 16th. November 17.It resumed its line of march in concert.with the grand army under Major-Geiieral Sherman. The duties performed were such as usually devolve upon troops when engaged in so extensive a cam- paign. The distance marched, up to December 1, about 255 miles. In travel- ing this distance six rivers were crossed and many fatiguing marches were made. The brigade has taken no active part in any engagement during the month. December 1 found this brigade with the grand army under Major- General Sherman in the interior of Georgia. In concert with its divis- ion and corps it moved forward without anything of interest occurring until the day after crossing the Ogeechee Canal (December 9), when, being in advance, it enco~tntered the enemys pickets about 9 a. in.; skirmished with them nearly all day, finally driving them across the Little Ogeechee River, capturing one piece of artillery and prisoners. The brigade assisted in the investment of Savannah, and after its evac- uation by th~ enemy marched into its present camp near the city. Artillery Brigade. November 1.Marched from Cave Spring to Cedartown, six miles, and encamped. November 2.Marched fifteen miles, en camping in the field. November 3.Marched sixteen miles; encamped at Pumpkin Vine Creek, Ga. November 4.Marched thirteen miles and encamped at Powder Springs. November 5.Marched eleven miles and encamped at Smyrna Camp- Ground, near Marietta, Ga. November 6 to 12.In camp near Marietta Page 31 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 31 November 13.Marched twelve miles and encamped at White Hall, near Atlanta. November 15..Brigade marched with General Shermans army; com- menced campaign through Central Georgia; marched seventeen miles, encamping near Jonesborongh. November 1G.Marched sixteen miles and encamped at McDonough. November 17.Marched ten miles and encamped near Jackson. November 18.Marched seven miles, encamping at Iron Springs. November 19.Marched eleven miles; crossed the Ocmuigee River; encamped at midnight near Hillsborough. November 20.Marched nineteen miles, encamping near Clinton. November 21.Marched twelve miles; encamped in the field. November 22.Marched eight miles and encamped at Gordon. Com- pany B, First Michigan Artillery, engaged in fight near Griswold. Casualties, 7 men wounded. November 23.Encamped at Gordon. November 24.Marched twelve miles, encamping at Irwinton. November 25.Marched thirteen miles and encaniped near Oconee River. The Twelfth Wisconsin Battery skirmished with the enemy at the river. November 2G.Crossed the Oconee River and marched nine miles; encamped at Irwins Cross-Roads. November 27.In camp at irwins Cross-Roads. November 28.Marched sixteen miles, encamping in the field. November 29.Marched eighteen miles; encamped near Sutherlands Mills. November 30.Marched sixteen miles and encamped in the field near Ogeechee River. Miles marched during the month, 257. December 1.Marched nine miles; encamped in field. December 2.Marched six miles; encamped in field. December 3.Remained in camp. December 4.Marched fifteen miles; encamped in field. December 5.Marched twenty miles; encamped in field. December G.Remained in camp. December 7.Marched sixteen miles; encamped at Jenks Bridge, on Ogeechee River. Company B, First Michigan Artillery, skirmished with the enemy at the ri4~r; enemy retired at night. December 8.Marched twelve miles; eiicamped at Eden Court-House. December 9.Marched three miles; encamped on Cannouchee River. December 10.Marched eighteen miles; encamped on Little Ogee- chee River, near enemys works, nine miles from Savannah, Ga. December 11.Batteries took position in rough works and engaged the enemy. December 12.Batteries actively engaged against enemys works from this date until the 21st, when the city of Savannah was evacuated by the enemy; brigade marched nine miles, encamping in the city of Savannah. Battery II, First Missouri Artillery, and Battery II, First Illinois Artillery, had two men wounded. December 15.The Twelfth Wisconsin Battery had three men wounded. December 23.Brigade reviewed by Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman. Brigade remained in camp in the city of Savannah during the balance of the month. Distance marched during the month, 108 miles Page 32 32 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [Caa.P. LYL SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS.* First Division. October 31, division encamped at Cave Spring, Ala. General Sprague was relieved of command by Maj. Gen. Joseph A. Mower. Marched October 31 at 7 a. m. with Army of the Tennessee toward Marietta, Ga. November 1.Encamped at night at Cedartowii. November 2.Encamped at night at Yan Wert. November 3.Encamped at night at Dallas. November 4.Encamped at night at Lost Mountain. November 5.Arrived at Marietta, Ga. Remained in camp at Smyrna Camp-Ground, near Marietta, until the 13th, the troops being paid up to August 31 and fully equipped for a winter campaign. November 12.The troops were engaged in destroying railroad near Marietta, Ga. November 13.Marched at 9 a. m. and encamped at White Hall, near Atlanta. November 14.In camp. November 15.Marched at 8.30 a. m. on the McDonough road, encamping at Cotton Indian Creek. November 16.Marched and encamped on farm of Mr. Walker. two miles north of McDonough. November 17.Encamped at Jackson. November 18.Crossed Ocmulgee River. November 19.Encamped near Hilisborough. November 20 to 22.Marched to Gordon, and troops destroyed several miles of the Milledgeville railroad. November 23.In camp. At night troops destroyed railroad. Norember 24.Marched at 7 a. m. on the Jackson Ferry road; marched ten miles and destroyed railroad. November 25.In camp at Toomsborough. November 26.Crossed the Oconee River after dark and encamped on the eastern side. November 27.Encamped at November 28.Encamped at New Hope Church. November 29.Encamped at November 30.Crossed the Ogeechee River. December 1 found this division on east side of the Ogeechee River, having crossed the previous day; marched six miles, troops being engaged in destroying railroad, and encamped on Jones plantation. December 2.Marched twelve miles to Milieu (Station No. 8), Georgia Central Railroad, and encamped, having toni up railroad. December 3.Marched ten miles to Station No. 7 and encamped. December 4.Marched seventeen miles. December 5.Marched eight miles; crossed Little Ogeechee River and encamped at Station No. 4~. December 6.Troops were engaged in destroying railroad. December 7.Marched thirteen miles over bad roads and encamped late in the night. December 8.Marched nine miles and encamped near Station No. 2. December 9.Marched ten miles; had some skirmishing and artillery- firing, there being several killed and wounded to-day; several torpe- does exploded among our division; encamped at Pooler (Station No. 1). * Comman4ed by Maj. Gen.Fra~k P. Blair, jr. Page 33 ChAP. LYI.1 TILE SAVANNAh CAMPAJ(~N. 33 1)cccm 4cr lo.K\I oved about five nijies, skirmishing sonic; fortified in the iiight. Ikccm bcr 11.1\Ioved to right, being relieved l)y 1oiuteeiith Corps. I)cccmbcr 12.Moved all day aiid night, e1Iea1n~)ing near Au(lersonS I)IaiLtatioil; Second I}riga(le went to Dillon s Bridge. ibecember 13 to 15.Lay in camp. I)cccmbcr 1G.Ill obedience to orders. the division broke cami) and marched to Kin os Brido and encaiiil)e(1. l)cccm 4cr 17.ii~Iarched twenty miles (ha vilig no rations.) ; eiicanhl)ed at Midway Church. l)ccembcr 18.Destroyed eighteen miles of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad, including trestle and l)ortions ot bridge across the Altamaha River. flcccm bee 19.( 1ontinued (lestroyi n g railroad. I)ccem 4cr 20.Marche(l back to Midway (li urch, twenty miles. J)cccmn bcr 21.Reached ti rmer eanip itear Andersons plantation, having marched twenty miles. Savannah evacuated by the rebels last. night an(l occupied by onr army this morning. Dccember 22.Removed camp one mile and a half towar(l the city. Dccember 23.lit Calni). December 24.Moved through Savamimiali to three miles east of city. December 2J and 2G.In cami). Decem 4cr 27.Moved li ea dquarters one at i Ic, to Tlinm 1(lerbolt. Decem 4cr 28.Contemplated review postpoi ied on account of rain. J)cccm ber )9 General Sheim tan reviewed Seventeenth Army Corps. ihuem 4cr 30 and 31.In camp. The Second Brigade, for the balance of the month after the 12th, was at Dillons Bridge. ANCCO i/ (1 ];rig(((lc, Fi r~t Die i~i(~ II.. Dec m/t(r 1.The brigade was eucaniped on the east bank of the Oge~chee. at Station No. 9~, on the Georgia Central Railroad; at 7 a. inn. l)egan destruction of railroa(l and destroyed three miles and a half; went into camp abont 2 p. in., having mimarched six miles. J)ecember 2.Marched at 7 a. m. and reachie(l Buck Ilead (or I)eep~ Creek, at 1 p. mu., which we immediately crossed amid encamped at Millen. Decem bee 3.Destroyed railroad south front Millem more thorough amid devilish thmamt was ever (Ireatued of. Decc)n 4cr 4.Marched at S a. in.; heard some cannola(ling in rear about 14) a. mtm. Decem 4cr ~).March1e(l at 7 a. iii., the Second Brigade ut thte advamice, reachimi g the Little Ogeechee at 12 in.: found the enemny disputimig our passage. He was soon dislodged by the Tltirty-fifth New Jersey Vol- imitteers and Forty-third Ohio Veteran Volunteers crossing as skir- maishers, we encallipimig east of the stream. The enemy had thirown up works. 1)ccember G.1 )estroyed raihroad all day, remuaiuiiig in same camp as yesterday. I)eecm bee 7.Marched about 9 a. ma., tlte Second Brigade ut rear of traitis. Continued march all iiight over miserable roads through quick- saud bottoums. 1)ecember 8.i\larchied at 9 a. m. and eticamuped about 10 p. ma. twenty. one miles from Savamittali, on tIme thrum of Mr. limes, a rebel quarter- master. 3 i~ nvoi~ XLI Page 34 34 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., ANI) FLA. [CHAP. LVI. December 9.Marched at 7 a. iii., the Second Brigade in advance; struck the enemy about 10 a. lii.; tianked him out of his position and drove him to withiu ten miles of Savaniiah~ losing some men by the CX1)lOSiOiL ot torpedoes, & c. December 10.Marched at 9 a. in. all(l went into 1)OsitiOn south of the Ogeechee Canal about mioon, losing a tbw men, having had some sharp skirmishing. December 11.Artillery practice aiid skirmuishing to-day; were re- lieved by the Fourteenth Army Corps after dark, and encamped about three miles in rear. J)ecembcr 12.Marched at 7 a. in. toward the right, crossing the Ogeechee Canal late in the p. in., an(l went into camp iiear Dilloiis Bridge about sunset, with orders to hold the groun(l between the Great anti Little Ogeechee. Remained iH eanil) until (late [l)ecember 31]. Decem ber 19.Brigade headqna rters, with Twenty-fifth Wiscon siu and Forty-third Ohio, were moved to Kings Bridge by order from Major-General Blair, but returned same day by order of Major-General Sherman. December 31.Mustered for pay. Third Dirision. Xoeember 1.Marched from Cave Spring to Cedartown. Norember 2.Marched to Van Wert. N6cernber 3.Marched to Dallas. Nocember 1.Marched to Lost Mountain. Aoccmber 5.Marched to Smnyrna Camp-Ground, remaining there until the 13th, destroying four miles of railroad on the 12th. i\o rem ber 13.Marched to Atlanta. Nocember 11.Remained at Atlanta, loading supplies. No rem ber 15.Started south, marching to Stockbridge. ~ocember 1G.Marched to near McDonough. November 17.Marched to near Jackson. Aocembcr 1S.Crossed the Ocmulgee River at 1~lanters Ferry and bivouacked tw-o miles amid a half beyond on Monticello road. Yocember 19.Marched to imear Jlillsborough. No cc)nber 20.Marched to Blonntsvihle. No rember 21 Marchmcd to William Wlmitleys l)laI itation. Not-ember 22.Marched to Gordon. Aorember 23.Marched to Station No. W, Georgia Cemitral Railroad. L~orcmber 21.Marched to Station No. 15 (Toomsborough). Aom-ember 25.Marched to Oconee Ri vein. Norember 2G.Crossed time Oconee to near Station No. 14. Ao rem bee 27.Marched to Irwins Cross Roads. Aorember 28.Marched to New hope Church. Norember 29.Marched to Mrs. Hauvers plantation, on the old Savaiinah road. Norember 30.Marched to Station No. 9~, crossing the Ogeechee River. Niminber ot niniles mnarched~ 290; number of nmiles of railroad de- stroye(l. 22. December 1.Moved troiim Station No. 9.1 to near Station No. 9; six miles. 1)ecem bee 2.Moved to Mihlemm ; ten miles. December 3.Moved to Station No. 7, or Scarborough Post-Office; ten miles Page 35 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 35 December 4.Moved to Station No. 5~, or Cameron Post-Office; fifteen miles. December 5.Moved to Little Ogeechee; ten miles. December 6.Laid in camp. December 7.Moved to Station No. 3; fifteen miles. December 8.Moved to Station No. 2; eleven miles. December 9.Moved to Pooler (Station No. 1); ten miles. December 10.Moved to enemys works around Savannah, six miles, and took np position. December 11.Moved to the right two miles. December 12.Moved farther to the right by a rear and roundabont road; marched twelve miles; took up a position and fortified. December 13 to 20, inclusice.Constructed forts and earth-works- also boats and portable bridges with which to cross the rice swamp in front of the enemys works and make a charge, if possible. Sharp- shooting constantly, and occasionally enlivening the Georgia militia with an artillery duel. December 21.At 4 a. m. discovered the enemy were evacuating and pushed for Savannah, Ga., eight miles distant, reaching that place at 6 a. in. December 22 to 31, inclasive.Remained in camp. Total distance marched in month, 115 miles. Aggregate of marches in year: On foot, 1,561 miles; on steam-boat, 1,400 miles; on railroad, 1,200 miles; total, 4,161 miles. Second Brigade, Th ird Division. November 13.This command left Camp Smnyrna, Ga., forming part of the army nnder General Sliermnaii, and took part in the move through the State of Georgia, destroying railroads, & c.; met with little resistance from the enemy. [December.]During the past month this command has been on the move until the 10th of the month, at which date it arrived before Savannah, on the Augnsta road. December 11.Were ordered to take position before the city on the Darien road, which position the command occupied until the surrender of the city, December 21. During the remainder of the month the command was encamped at Fort No.3, Savannah, Ga., furnishing regular picket and fatigue parties. Fourth Division. Norember 1.The division marched on or about this date from Cave Spring with the Army of the Tennessee; arrived at Smyrna Camp- Ground, near Marietta, Ga.. Norember 6.Moved to Marietta, Ga. Arriving at that place the Second Brigade, that had been on duty in that vicinity during the sum- nier, joined the division and were consolidated with the First and Third Brigades. We remained at Marietta reorganizing and preparing for the campaign through Georgia until the 13th, when we moved toward Atlanta. No cember 14.Arrived at Atlanta.. November 15.Started with the army on expedition to Savannah. November 29.Arrived at the Ogeechee, amid crossed the river oppo- site Station No. 9~ on the following morning Page 36 36 OPERATIONS iN 8. C.~ GA., AND FLA. CHAP. LVI. December 1.The division moved troin near Station No. 9i~ on the Georgia Ceiitral Railroad, and continued the march with Mn jor-( citeral Shermans army towar(l Savairn ali. (i a. December 10.Drove the enemy in front tiomn two advanced lines ot defense across a swamp and into their main line of works, three miles from the city, losing 6 killed an(L 11 wounded. December ii.Chau~ed })Osition to the right. December 21.Marched into the city of Savannah; are now ~Decem- ber 31] encamped near the city. Tb cr4 Beigade, Jo art/c 1)ic~isioa. ATocember 1.Left (Dave Spring, aiid, marching via Cedartowit. Van Wert, Dallas, Lost Momi tam Post-Office, and Srrmyrna Camp-Ground. went into camp at Marietta omi the 6th; distance marched, sixty-two miles and a half. November 12.Marched to Rig -Shiauity, destroying railroa(l one mile amid a half south of it, returning to Marietta that evening; distance, eight miles. No cember 1.~.Left Man etta, and in arched, via Proctors Creek, At - lanta, Tar Creek, Catawba (reek, Ocmnulgee Mills, Monticello. Hills- borongh, Gordon Statiom , 1 rwinton, and Tooinsborougb, to within three miles of the M. and A. Railroad bridge over thee Ocoicee lUver. No cencber 23.Went into bivouac; distamice, 154 meeihes. Noreneber 25.Marched to railroad bridge and skirmished with the enemy; withdrew in the torenoon. and mnarche(l. via Toonisborough, to within three miles of Balls Ferry; (histance, h)nrteen miles. Aorecccber .2G.Crossed Balls Ferry, and meearching near Louisville encamped near Ogeechee River; (histance, fifty-one miles. Total distance marched, 289.~ miles. December 1.Moved from bivouac near Ogeechee River. December 2 to 4.Marched to Burton and Mihlen. December 5.Arrived at Ogeechee Church, near Station No. 5~, on Savannah and Augusta Railroad; distance marched, sixty-seven miles and a half; destroyed six umiles and a half of the Savannah and Au- gusta Railroad. December 7 to 10.Marclmed forty-one miles and a half, goimig into position within two miles and three-quarters of Savanmeah on the 10th. December 11.Being melieved by part of the Fourteemith Army Corps, withdrew amid moved to Kings Bridge, omi Ogeechee Canal; distance marched, four miles. December 12.Marched six miles to l)haiik ioad. December 13 to 15, i)cclc(scc~e.in camp. - December 1G.Moved to Kings Bridge, on Ogeechice River; distammee marched, five miles. December 17 and 1(5.hemained in camp, a i)o1tiomt of the command being engaged in building a w-harf on the ()geechee. December 19.Moved nimme miles to) Lawtons. December 20.Had contimmned skirmishing with the enemy. December 21. The emiemy havimfg evacuated their position dunn the night previous, moved into Savannah in the forenoon, amid have since been encamimped in the outskirts of the city; distance marched on the 21st, seven miles. Total distaiice marched during the month, 140 miles. Capt. E. C. Lawson, Company C, Thirty-second Illinois Volunteers, wounded in groin severely Page 37 LVI.] TI-IF SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 37 LEFT JVIVG. FOURTEENTh A I~MY (OI~P5.t November 1.The C0~l)5 was stationed at Rome, Ga. Norem ber 2.Marched to Kingston, where preparations for a winter campaign were made. i\ocember ll.COI7fHfllUhjcatjoii itortli was given up and the move- ment south commenced. No cern be 15.The corps arrive(1 at At] anta. November 1G.Left Atlanta a 11(1 1)a.ssed through I )ecatur. November 17 to 22.The march was continued. November 23.The corps arrived at Mi] led gevihie. No rem ber 25.Crossed the Oconee, moving for Sami (lersYille. November 2G.Arrived at Sandersville. November 27.Marched for Louisville. November 29 Reached Lomsville, at which place the corps remained until December 1. December 1.The corps moved from Louisville, the First and Second 1)ivisions on a road running toward Savannah, and the Third Division, in support of Kilpatricks (a vahy, toward Waynesborongli. The First and Second Divisions crossed the Augusta railroad at Lumpkin~s Station, the Third crossing five miles to the left. The track of the road was thoroughly destroyed to a (0115i(lerable distance at these points. The Third [)ivisioii continue(l a ioving with Kilpatricks cavalry, opei- ating on the left flank, until the ~th, arriving oii that day at Jackson- borough, near which place the other two divisions arrived and encamped. December G.Comitinued the march, the whole corps on the Savannah road, until the 11th, when the coups nlove(l for~vard, following the Twentieth Corps, to a position iii homit of the eneiiiy~s works near Savannah, and formed on the left of the Twentieth Corps, in which position it remained mitil the evacuation of Savannah. considerable firing being kept up during the time by the artillery and skirmishers. December 22.The corps moved to within two miles and a half of Savannah, and remained in camp at this point (hiring the remainder of the mouth. First Divis ion. Novemoer ~.Encamped near Rome, Ga. November 2.Marched fifteen miles to Kingston. November 3.No change until 11th. November 11.Marched eleven miles to Cartersville. No rem ber 13.Marched to Big Shamity, destroying rai iron d. Aovem ber 14.Marched to Cli attahooch ee River. November 15.Entered Atlanta. November 1G.Marched to Lithonia; fifteen miles. Aovember 17.Marched to Yellow River; seventeen miles. November P1.Marched to Covington; eight miles. Aorember 19.Marched toward Shady J)ale; twelve muile8. Ao rem ber 20.Marched to Sparks house; fifteeii 1 imiles. No rem be) 21.Marched six mu iles. No rem ber 22.Moved towar(l Milled oeville. twelve miles. No rem be) 23.Ma icli ed to i~1il le(l ge vi Ile- el eveim miles. Coiiimanded by Maj. Oen. Ileiirv \V. Slociiun. (Joitunanded by Bvt. Maj. (Jeti. Jefferson C. 1)avis Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. CHAP. LVI. Aorember 21.Crossed Oconee River and encamped on Town Creek; ten miles. November 25.No changes. November 26.Marched ten miles, crossing Buffalo Creek Swamp, to Keg Creek. November 27.Marched through Sandersville toward l)a visborough; eighteen miles. November 28.Passed Davisborough at noon; fourteen miles. ~Aoreniber 29.Passed through Lonisville~ three miles. Ao rem ber 30.Marched seventeen miles to Mill Creek. December 1.On the march from Atlanta to Savannah. The march was continued daily until the 11th. December 11.The division was formed on the right of the Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, relieving two divisions of the Seveu- teenth Army Corps, which had thrown up works. December 12.The battery opened fire on the enemys lines about 800 yards distant and continued firing daily. The firing was also kept up steadily on the picket-lines. No changes of importance were made in the lines until the 21st, when two regiments of the Third Brigade entered Savannah and returned to camp the same day. December 22.The (livision marched three miles amid encamped near the city, where the troops remain at this date [December 31]. Total distance marched, 125 miles. Second Brigade, First Dirision. Nore)nber 15.The Second Brigade was organized at Atlanta, Ga., in obedience to Special Orders, No. 16, from headquarters First l)ivision, Fourteenth Army Corps, and J. H. Brigham, lieutenant-colonel Sixty- ninth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, placed in comnian(i. November 16.It left Atlanta, and up to the present time [November 30] marched about 200 miles, passimmg in its route through Decatur, Lithonia, Conyers, Covington, Sandersville, amid Louisville. Dnrimmg time march the brigade was not in any engagemuent. Time general health of the muen has beemm good, omily three having died up to the present time. [December.]During the mnonth the bm-igade, 1mm conjunction with time Army of Georgia, nmmder Genem-al Sherman, muarched from the vicinity of Louisville, passing through Sebastopol a mmd Nasworthy, crossing Buck Head Creek, and striking the railroad at Lmmnmpkins Statioii, elketuahly destroying it. From this point time march was commtimmued. December 4.Crossed Ebemmezer Creek. passing near the remnamns of old Fort Greene, mnarchimmg parallel with tIme Savannah River until withimi four muiles of tIme city, whemi, ~)a.ssi1mg to the right of time Twen- tieth Corps, the brigade, with the First i)ivisiomi, Fourteenth Armmmy Corps, took up position on the 11th instant on the niost advanced p~i- tion of the entire line, relieving a portion of the Sevemmteemmth Corps. The enemy was in the imunmediate fromit, with strong works and an almost impassable swamp immtem~venin g. Can non a (Ii im g and skirmishi mm g was kept up, resulting in the wonmmdimmg of Lientenant Trask, Thir- teenth Michigan Yeteramm Volunteer Jnthmmtry, and five emmhisted men in the whole brigade. December 19.The brigade was relieved by the rfhirtl Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth Ammny Coin-ps. December 21.The enemny havimig evacuated, time city was taken pos- session of Page 39 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAh CAM1~AIGN. 39 J)eeember 22.The liourteentli Ariiiy Corps took up l)osition 011 the outskirts of the city, where it yet remainS, active preparations mean- while being made for another campaign. J)eeember 27~The Fourteenth Army Corps was reviewed in the streets of Savannah by General Sherman. Third Brigade, First Division. November 2.The brigade marched with the division from Rome to Kingston, at which place it went into camp, doing regular camp and picket duty until the 12th. November 12.Marched with the (Livision in direction of Atlanta. Aovem ber 15.Arrived at Atlanta. Aorember 1G.Marched with the division in the directiou of the Atlantic coast, marching through Lithonia, Covingt.on, Milledgevihle, Sandersvihle, and Louisville. Aorember 30.Marched to Sebastopol, Ga., on the line of the Macoii and Savannah Railroad, at which place went into camp for the night. During the month the brigade assisted in destroying the Western and Atlantic, Georgia, and the Savannah and Augnsta railroads. Dis- tance marched during the mouth, 247 miles. Pecem ber 1.Marched from Sebastopol. December 3.Arrived at Lnmnpkins Station, on Augusta and Savan- nah Railroad. December 4.Were engaged for several honrs in tearing up the track and destroying the road, and marched the balance of the day as rear guard to the train, and skirmishing with a small body of rebel cavalry, but with no result. December 11.Arrived in frontof Savannah and went into line of battle and remained there until the 21st, during which time nothing of note occurred but the regular skirmishing, which was kept up by the pickets. J)ecem.ber 21.Marched imito the city at 8 a. in., where we went into camp and remained the balance of the month, doing regular garrisomi and picket duty. Distance marched during the month 440 miles. Second Division. November 1.Left Rome, Ga., for Kingston, Ga. November 8.Marched to Cartersyille, Ga. November 13.Destroyed eight miles of the Chattanooga and Atlanta Railroad. Norember 15.Arrived at Atlanta, Ga.. Aorcmber 1G.Marched from Atlanta, Ga., via Covington, Milledge- ville, Sandersyille, Ga., to Louisville, Ga. Norember 2G.Skirmished with the enemy at Sandersvihle, Ca., and drove him. Loss, 1 enlisted man killed and 1 wounded. 7~orember 30.Enemy attacked l)icket-liue at Louisville, Ga., in which he was repulsed, and left on the field 2 commissioned officers and 4 enlisted muen killed and 1 enlisted man wounded. l)istance marched during the mouth, 252 muiles. J)ecembcr 1.Division left Louisville, Ca.; muarche(l to within four miles of Savannah. December 11.~\ent imlt() position for off~nsive ol)eratiolms; remained so until the 21st Page 40 4() OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. December 20 and 21.Enemy evacuated his works at iiight, retreat- ing across Savannah River. Moved into Cahill) at Savannah, Ga., on the 21st; remained to the en(l of the month. Number of miles marched, 121. First Brigade, /~eeond Dirision. November 1.The brigade left Rome, Ga., and marched toward At- lanta, destroyiiig the railroad as they went. November 1G.Left Atlanta and marched by way of Decatur, Lith- onia, Conyers,Covington, Milledgeville. Sandersville, and Fern is Bridge to Louisville, Ga. No engagement with the enemy during the month, except at. San- dersville, from which town the rebel cavalry was driven out by skir- mishers from this brigade and from the Twentieth Army Corps. December 1.Left Louisville, Ga., and marched east. to the Savannah River. December 11.Arrived in front of Savairnah. The brigade was posted near the Milledgeville road, only about 400 ya.rds from the rebel batteries, but being covered by an impenetrable swamp and (lense woods, suffered but little. December 21.After the evacuation of the place by the rebels moved camp nearer the town. Third Brigade, & eon(1 Division. December 1 found this brigade on the march to Savannah, Ga., which place it reached on or about. the 13th. The brigade was not on the line during the investment of the city. but was held as reserve, furnishing all details for fatigue, forage, & c. When the enemy evacu- ated the city our camp was moved tip to within two miles of the city, where we have remained in inactivity ever since. Third Division. November 2.Division moved from camp near Rome, Ga.., and arrived at 3 p. in. at Kingston, where it remained until the 12th. November 12.Took up tIme march for Atlanta, emicamping first night three miles from Etowali River. November 13.Passed through Allatoona. Gap; (lest.roye(l the rail. road froni Allatoona Creek to a point one mile beyond Acworth, and went into camp at Rig Shanty. No vein ber 14.I )ivisiom 1 crossed the Chattah oochee. November 15.Marched through and ellcamnpe(l near the city of Atlanta. November 1G.1~assed through 1)ecatur and marched as far as Snap- finger Creek. November 17.From this date the march was continued through Lithonia, Conyers, crossing Yellow Ri x-ei, through Covin gton, over the Ulcofauhachee, through Shady I )ale. November 23.Reached the city of Milledgeville in the morning. Aovember 25.From this place the (livision marched in the morning; crossed t.he Oconee amid destroyed the bridge. November 2G. Arrived at Sandersvi lie. November 27.Division sta.rte(l toy Louisville, taking tile rOa(I to Feuns Bridge, the First and Secon(l 1)ivisions, with all the trains o Page 41 CHAP. LVI.~ TILE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 41 the (orl)s, following the direct route. head of column reached Rocky tonifort Creek at 8.30 a. in., but the bri(lge having been destroyed by the enemy, was unable to cross until in the afternoon. Encamped near Louisville where the division remained until December 1. December 1.At 10 a. in. (livision moved from camp near Louisville, in company with General Kilpatricks division of cavalry, and went into camp at 5 p. m. on the bank of Buck Head Creek. 1)nring the day consi(lerable skiriuuisluing with the enemys cavalry, with a loss on our si(le of 8 killed and 2 wolmn(led. December ~& .Met the enemy again at Rocky (reek at 10 a. m. posted behind strong l)arricades anti (lisposed to (lispitte our crossing at the thrd. rfhe Seventy-fourth Indiana charged and dlisl)erse(l tlieuuu, an(1 the division marched to the thriut of Mr. and went into camp. December 3.Arrived at Thomas Station, on the Savannah an(l Augusta Railroad, and (luring the night thoroughly (lestroyed severa.l mu iles ot railroad track. J)eeem be, 4.General Kilpatrick attacked thu e enemys cavalry one mile flout Thomas Station and (Irove them in contusion through WayneThorough amid two miles beyond. The division followed up aut(I supported General Kilpatrick duriuuo the olay, an(1 then iua(Ie a night march to Alexander. 1)ecem ber ~.Reached Jacksonbor( )1i gli. 1)ecember G~Crossed Beaver Dam Creek and joined the other divis- mouts of the corps. December 7.Late at night reached Sisters Ferry. J)ecember ~.Reniained in camp during the day and had consider- able skirmishing with the advamice of the enemys cavalry. Marched at midnight, anu crossed Ebenezer Creek at 3 a. m. of the 9th. i)ccember 1O.Emmcamuuped within twelve miles of Savannah, making short marches. December 1J.1)ivision encamped omi the Louisville road, six miles front the city, where it remained until the 22d, at which tinue (the city havimug been evacuated on the night ot the 20th) it was moved to a 1)Ositiolt still occupied half a mile from the tow-tm. December ~& 7.Corps reviewed by Major-General Sherman. First Brigade, Ti, trd IYiri%ion. Norember 1.Brigade remained in cami) micar Rome, Ga. Aot~e)flbe) 2.At 4) a. mu. crosse(l tlte Eto~vah River, passing through Rome, marching on Kimmgstoui and Route road; emicamped for the night near Kingston. Norember 3 to 11.Bemaiule(l in (amp. irember 12.Marched at S a. mu. omi Kingston atid Marietta road, ~)assimIg tlmrongh (art~rsville; encamped neat Allatoona. Aorc)u ber 13.Marched at 6.30 a. in., passing through Allatoon a; encamped utear Big Sltauty. Aorember 14.Marched at 8 a. mu., passing through Marietta; crossed tIme Chuattahoochee River at Turners Ferry. Norember 15.Marched at 6 a. mum.; arriving at Atlanta, eucaunped for tIme itight. Aorember 16.Marched at 11 a. iti. to imear Little Pine Moumitain. Nonember 17.Marched at 6 a. mum., passiumg through Litltomuja amtd Cony& rs, amid tearimug tip oute mile amtd three-quarters of railroad; en- camped near Yellow Rivet Page 42 42 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVi. November 18.At 10 a. in. marched throu4i (ioviiigton; dncaml)e(1 for the night one mile south of Covingtoii. November 19.Marched at 6.3() a. in., passing through Sandtown; encamped for the night four miles south of Sandtown. November 20.Marched at 6.30 a. m. on Covington and iEatoiitoii road. November 21.Marched at 6 a. in., passing throu~h Shady Dale encamped for the night. November 22.Marched at 8 a. in.; encamped for the night oii Howell Cobbs farm. AToreinber 23.Marched at 6 a. in.; arriving at Milledgeville, en. camped for the night. Novem ber 24.Remained in position. November 25.Marched at 6 a. in., crossing the Oconee River and marching on the Milled geville and Sandersvihle road; encamped on Giles farm. November 2G.Marched at 6 a. in. on Milledgeville and Saudersyille road, passing through Sandersville, aiid elicalilpe(l for the night. November 27.Marched at 6 a. in. on Fenns Bridge road, and cross- ing the Ogeechee, encamped six miles sonth~vest of Louisville. November 28.Marched at 6 a. in., building a bridge and crossing Rocky Comfort Creek; passed through Louisville and encamped for the night. November 29.Marched at 9 a. m. and took position across Little Rocky Comfort Creek, relieving a brigade of cavalry. November 30.Remained in position. Decem ber 1 .I3rigade marched on Waynesborough road; arriving at Buck Head Creek, eilcaml)e(I for the night. December 2.Marched at 6 a. m. on Waynesborough road five miles, turning south on Savaniiah road three iuiles; eimcainped for the night. December 3.Marched at 6 a. in. on Savannah road; tllrile(l east on by-road, marching to Thomas Station, on Augusta and Savannah Rail- road; halted for thc night, tearing up one mile and three-quarters of road. December 4.Supported General Kilpatricks cavalry in an engage- ment with rebel General Wheelers cavalry, (Iriving theni l)eyolid Waynesborough; niarched from Waynesborough, on Augusta and S~n vannah Railroad, passi~i g through Alexander; encanml)ed tor the iii gut two miles south. J)ecemb& r 5.Marched same course an(1 road, encamping for the imight on Beaver Pain (icek. 1)eeember 6.Marched on same road all night. December 7.Formed line of battle; skirmished with the enemy all day. December 8.At 1 a. in. withdrew across Sisters Ferry bridge, on Little Ebenezer Creek. At 11 a. in. marche(l on by-road intersecting Augusta and Savannah road, eighteen miles northwest of Savannah; encamped for the nio-ht. December 9.Marched on Augusta and Savannah roa(l aml took position at Eleven-Mile Post to guard the rear against cavalry. Decem ber 1 9.Remain e(l in l)osmtlomi. December 11.Moved on by-road to Louisville road; took position to guard rear. December 12 to 21.Remained in position. December 20.TI ic Twenty-tb i rd Missouri Volunteer Infantry was detached on fatigue duty at Kings Bridge Page 43 CHAP. LVI.I TIlE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 4~3 December 22.Marched to witlijit teii miles of Savannah, encamping along Louis~i1le road. December 23 to 2G.Remained in position. December 27.Was reviewed in the streets of Savannah by Major- General Sherman, with balance of Fourteenth Army Corps. December 28 and 29.Remained in camp. December 30.Moved to Savannah, temporarily relieving Twentieth Corps while on review. December 31.Remained in camp. Second Brigade, Third Di ris ian. November 1.Encamped at Rome, Ga. ATorember 2.Marched to Kingston, Ga., where the brigade lay until the 12th. November 12.Marched toward Atlanta. No rem ber 13.Destroyed railroad and marched to Big Shanty. November 15.Reached Atlanta. November 16.Marched fifteen miles, passing through Decatur, Ga. Nocember 17.Destroyed railroad and encamped near Conyers, Ga., on Augusta and Savannah Railroad. Nocember 18.Marched to Covington, Ga. Norember 19.Marched fifteen miles; encamped near Sandtown, Ga. Norember 20 to 22.Oii the march. Norember 23.Reached Milledgeville, Ga. Noieinber 25.Marched at daylight; made seventeen miles. Norember 2G.Had bad roads through swamps; encamped at Sand- ersville. No rember 27.Marched eigh teen miles, eros sing Ogeechee River at Fenus Bridge. ~ 28.Reached Louisville, Ga.; remained until the close of the iiionth. Third Brigade, Third Division. November 1 found this brigade on the march toward Atlanta, Ga., which place it reached on the 15th. November 1G.Started with the rest of the army to Savannah. Ga. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS)~ [November.]The corps remained in Atlanta until the 15th. Norember 11.The Army of Georgia having been organized, Major- General Slocumn assumed command of the Left Wing, Brig. Gen. A. S. Williams assumed command of the corps, Brig. Gen. N. J. Jackson assumed command of the First Division. November 15.The corps left Atlanta and marched to Stone Moun- tam. Norember 16.Marched to Yellow River. Norember 17.Marched toward Madisomi, encamping on Flat Creek. Norember 18.Encamped four miles west of Madison. Norembe~- 19.The Second Division, with one battery, detached from the corps and sent to destroy the railroad from Madison to the Oconee River. The First and Third Divisions iuiarched to Madison, encamping five miles southeast of it. *Comn~anded by Brig. Gen. Alphel]s S. Williams Page 44 44 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FIAA. [CHAP. LVI. Aovernber 20.The First and Third I)ivisions iiIahIie(l toward Eaton- toii, encamping three iii iles Th)rthI ot it. No cern ber 21.The First and Third I )ivi 510115 iuarche I through Eatonton toward Milledgeville, encamping near I)ennis Station, on the Eatonton and Milledgeville Railroad. November 22.Marched to Milledgeville. The Second Division re- joined the corps, having destroyed the railroad from Madison to Oconee River and the bridge at the river. ~%ove)flber 2J.Corps rein aiiied at Milledgeville. No rem ber 24.Corps in arched toward lLebroi i, encamping near Gmn Creek. November 25.Marched toward Sandersville. en cain piii g two miles from the town: skirmished with the enemy. Z~OVeiflber 2G.Marched to Sandersville; slight skirmishing. The Third Division remained there to guard the traiiis and artillery. The First and Second l)ivisions marched to Tennille Station, on the Georgia Central Railroad. November 27.The Third 1)ivisioii marched with the train and artil- lery to Davisborough. The Second 1)ivision destroyed the railroad from Tennille Station to within six miles of Davisborough, encamping at the latter place, the First I)ivision on sonth side of railroad to Davis- borough. November ~8 All the wagon train an(l artillery of the corps, escorted by the Third Division, iliarched to Louisville. The First l)ivision de- stroyed the railroad tromim Davisborough to Spiers Station, encamping at that place. The Second Division destroyed railroad west of Davis- borough; returning, eiLcamnpe(l at that place. November 29. The First amid Second l)ivisions destroyed the railroad to the Ogeechee River and the railroad bridge there; the Third Divis- ion at Louisville. No rem ber 30.The First ai id Second 1) i vision crosse(l the Ogeechee River and encamped w-ith the l)alance of tile eorps near Louisville. Casualties, 144. [December.]Dnring the month the march from Atlanta to Savannah was completed. The daily marches were as follows: December 1.Marched from Louisville, Ga., through Birdville; en- camped on Bark Camp Creek. December 2.Marched to Buck Head Church. December Mirched toward Sylvammia, crossing the Augusta and Millen railroad; destroyed five miles of track; encamped on horse Creek. December 1.Marched to the Little Ogeechmee River. December 5.Moved forward about five muiles on the roa(l to Spring- field. Decem bei G.-Marched to Turkey Creek. Decem ber 7.Marched to Springfield. Decem ber 3.Marched toward Monteith - The First and Second Divisions marched thirteen mriiles. Time Third Division, with the corps trains, marched six miles. J)ecember 9.Marched to Monteith plantation. The Third I)ivision and trains closed up. The enenmy at this place, having obstructed the 1-oa(l across a wide swamp and having inthutry and artillery in in- trenchitients on tile o~)posite si(le, (hisl)ute(I the crossing. They were driven away by a portiomi ot the First I )iVision and tlleir work occupied by us Page 45 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 45 December 1O.Marched on the Savannah and Augusta road; Ibund the ellemys intrenched line crossing the roa(l iiear the Four-Mile Post. After reconnoitering the corps took position in front of the enemythe left on Savannah River, the right on Georgia Central Railroad. Re- nunned ill this position until the 21st, when, the enemy having evac- llate(l, the corps took possession of the city. A small steamer (Ida) was captured in the Savannah River and burned on the 10th. December 12.The steamer Resolute was captured. December 19.The Second Brigade, First l)ivisioii, was sent across the river to the Soufli Carolina side, returning upon the occul)atioIL of the city. Upon taking possession of the city Brigadier-General Geary was detailed as post commander and the Second I)ivision as gilar(ls and patrols. The First and Third Divisions placed in position on ~vest side of city, occupying a line from Savannah River to Georgia Central Railroad. Positions unchanged at the end of the month. Casualties, 114. Fir,t I)irisioa. [Norember.]The division reinaiiedin eamy~ about Atlanta until the morning of the 15th. Noee~nber 10.Aim order was received from Major-Geiteral Slocunzi, who had been placed in command of the Left Wing, Army of Georgia, assigning Brig. Gemi. A. S. Williams to the eomnman(l of time Twentieth Corps. N0eember 11.Brig. Gen. N. tJ. Jackson. who had 1)een or(lered to report for (luty to General Wihlianis. was by him assigned to time tem- porary command of the First Division, rf~vem1tiethi Corps. ~~Torembei. 15.At 7.30 a. in. the division marched omit of Atlanta on the Decatur road; passed to the right of Stone Mountain, imear which place the Third Briga(le destroyed several niiles of the Augusta rail- road; Passed through Social Circle and Madison, and at the latter place took a southeasterly direction, leaving the Augusta railroad and pass- ing tlrouglm Eatonton; crossed Little River and reached Milledgeville, time capital of Georgia, on the afternoon of the 22d. Remained near the city for one (lay. No rem ber 21.Marched in tI ie morning toward Ogeechee River; skirmished with time enemys cavalry while entering San dersvihle. iYorember 2G.in time afternoon the divisiomm struck theGeorgia Central Railroad at Teimnille Station (No. 13), from which point the division in venimectioii with the Second Division (General (icarys), tore up the m-~mi]roa(l to the Ogeechmee River imearly forty miles. No i-ember 30.Crossed the Ogeechee River in tIme afternoon four nmiles south of Louisville. December 1.Tlme division was iim camp near Louisville, Ga., amid at mioomm resunme(l the mimarch toward Savannah. December 2.Passed throng] 1 Birdvihle. December 3.Crossed the Waynesborougim railroad three miiilcs imorth ot MilIeu. !)eeem be, 5.I assed through Sprim igliekh. I)eeem ber 9.Came upon a force of the enemy occupyimi g two redoubts, within one 1)iece of artillery commanding the road. While Colonel Self- ridge (comimmamiding the First Brigade) occupied the attention of time enemy in fromint, the Second Brigade (Colonel Carmans) was sent to the enemys left to get to his rear, if possible, and the Third Brigade (Col- onel Robinsons) to his right. Owing to the difficult nature of th Page 46 46 OPERATIONS IN S. 0., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. ground the Second Brigade did not succeed in reaching the desired position before the movement of the Third Brigade compelled the enemy to evacuate his position. i)ecember 10.Came upon the enemy, posted in a line of strong works covering the city of Savannah, about tour miles from the city. Took position before the enemys works and reinaitied in position until the 21st, during which time the Second Brigade (Colonel Carmans) was sent to the South Carolina shore. December 21.The city was found to have bceii evacuated by the enemy. The division was brought to the city on the 21st and 22d, its right resting on the Savannah River, and remained in that position during the remainder of the month. First Brigade, First 1)icis ion. [Xorember.]This brigade was encamped near Atlanta, Ga., until the 15th, when it broke camp and marched via Decatur, Madison, and Mihledgeville, and reached the vicinity of Louisville on the 30th. On the route the brigade tore up and burned railroad tracks, & c., and sub- sisted chiefly on the country. December 1.Started from Louisville, Ga., and joined the Third Division of this corps, guarding train of that division until the 3d, when the brigade joined the First Division of this corps. December 9.Nothing of note occurred up to this date. When about thirteen miles northwest of Savannah, this brigade having the lead, we came to a portion of the road which was completely obstructed by slashed timber, at the en(l of which the enemy was fortified. The Fifth Connecticut Veteran Volunteers was deployed as skirmishers, supported by the remaining three regiments of this brigade, amid, in conjunction with the Second and Third Brigades of this division, throve the enemy from their works, capturing a few prisoners. Three men of the Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers were wounded. December 10.Marched about nine miles and encamped about four miles from Savannah, where the enemy was strongly fortified. The brigade connected on the left with General Gearys division and on the right with the Third Brigade of this division. Here we remained until the 21st, when it was discovered that the enemy had evacuated. The brigade moved within a mile of tIme city to its present encamp- ment. During the whole campaign tIme brigade subsisted chiefly on the country, destroyed 20 miles of railroad, 73 bales of cotton, 5 cotton gins, picked up about 100 negroes and 40 horses and mules. ASCCOfl(i Briqade, First Dir ision. November 1.The brigade still doing duty in Atlanta. November 15.Left Atlanta on camnj)aigli through Georgia, the Twentieth and Fourteenth Corps forming Left Wing, Army of Georgia; passed through l)ecatur and Stone Mountain. No rem ber IS_Marched through Social Circle. No rem ber 19.Marched through Madison. No rem ber 21. Marched through Eatonton. Novem ber 22.March ed through i\i ihled geville. No veniber 21.Crossed Bluff (icek. November 25.Crossed Bulkilo Creek Page 47 CHAP. LVJ.J THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 47 No rem ber 26.Skirmished all day and entered Sandersville; struck the Savannah and Macon Railroad at Station No. 13. Destroyed the railroad until the 30th, wlieii we crossed the Ogeechee and encamped four miles south of Louisville, Ga. !)eeember 1.Left camp micar Louisville, Ga., marching through Bird- ville, Springfield, and Monteith. J)eeember 10.Arrived in front of the enemys works. 1)eeember 16.Moved over to Argyle Island, in the Savannah River, and from there on the South Carolina shore; some skirmishing. December 22.Recrossed the river and encamped near the city, it having been evacuated by the enemy. Third Brigade, First Division. Norember 1 to 1.The brigade remained encaml)ed near Atlanta, Ga.; active preparations made for a campaign; the troops clothed and par- tially paid; surplus baggage sent to the rear. Norember 5.The brigade ordered to march at 1 p. m; moved out on the MeDonough road three miles and encamped at 7 p. m. No cember 6.Marched back to the old camp near Atlanta, Ga., at 1p.m. Aorember 7.The transportation of the brigade inspected. November 8.Presidential election held in the Sixty-first and Eighty- second Ohio Veteran, Thirty-first Wisconsin, and One hundred and forty-third New York Volunteers. No rember 9.A detachment of rebel cavalry and artillery, under Iverson, attacked the city at daybreak. The brigade ordered to move out White Hall street to the support of (Scarys division, lie withdrew before the troops arrived in position, and the brigade returned to its encampment. Nocember 10 to 13, inelusire.Preparations for the campaign con- tinued; railroad and other public property in Atlanta destroyed. November 14.Brigade ordered to march. November 15.Marched at 7 a. in. on the Decatur road. The brigade took in charge the train of the division. During the afternoon encamped near Stone Mountain. Nocember 16.Commenced destroyiimg the Georgia Railroad at 7 a. in. Destroyed about two miles of the track by 10 a. in. Marched at 5 p. in. as rear guard of the corps; crossed$tone Mountain Creek at 10.30 ali(l Yellow River at 11.30 p. in.; encamped on left bank of Yellow River. November 17.Marched at 12 in. as rear guard; crossed No Business Creek at 1 p. mu., Big ilaynes Creek at 5 p. mu., and Little ilaynes at 7 p. in.; passed Sheffield Post-Office at dusk~ en omie hour after midimight. camped near Flat Creek Nocember 18.Marched as rear guard at 8 a. in.; crossed Flat Creek at 10 a. in. and Ulcot~uhachee River at 11.30 a. in.; reached Social Cir- cle, on the Georgia Railroad, at 1.30 p. in.; marched from Social Circle at 3 p. in., following the railroad eastward; passed Rutledge at S p. in., and encamped five miles west of Madison one hour after midnight. iiocember 19.Marched as rear guard of the corps at 7.45 a. in.; l)asse(l through Madison at 10 a. in.; marched southward on Eatomiton road and encamped at 12 in. Aoeember 20.Marched at 7.15 a. in; crossed Sugar Creek at 11.30 a. in., and Clarks Fork at 1 J). in.; encamped four miles and a half north of Eatonton at 7 p. in Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., ANI) FLA. (CHAr. LVI. Norcmber 21. Weather wet and foggy and roads heavy. Trains coinineiiced moving at 6 a. iii.; brigade formed rear guard; rebel cay- airy followed closely and encountered the Sixtv-tirst Ohio Veteran /ol- uiiteers in rear of the colnniii at 1 p. in ; 1)assefl through Eatonton at 4 p. in.; trains much impeded by the niud and helped along by the troops; encamped at 11 1~ in. Xorcmber ~ Marched at 7.15 a. in., covering rear of the division; crossed Little River at 12.30 p. in.; reached Milledgeville at 7.30 p. in.; crossed the Ocommee iliver and encamped on left bank at 9 p. in. No rem ber 23.Remain e(l elmcalnl)ed near Ocoi ee River bridge, forag- ing l)arties bringing in conSideral)le (1Llalltities of supplies. Xorembcr 24.Marched as vanguard at 6 a. in. on the road leading down the left bank of the (Jeommee: crossed Beaver River at 11 a. in. amid Town Creek at. 12.15 p. in.; crossed Gum Creek and encamped at 4.30 p. m. Norember 25.Marched as vanguard at 6 a. in.; crossed Bluff Creek at 7 oclock and reached ilebron at S a. in. Time cohinin was delayed at this point until 2 p. in. by the destruction of nine bridges by the enemy; march resinued, the advance guard driving before it the rebel cavalry. Advanced three miles. when tIme enemy, under Wheeler, made a stand, drivimig back our cavalry; brigade foriimed line and threw for- ward skirmishers. Time skirmish line advanced (lireetly upon the enemy and throve him precipitately about one mile beyond his position; brigade encamped at 5.30 p. in. 2%OCCiflbCY 2G.Marched at 6.15 a. m. on time road leading to Sand- ersvilhe; entered Sandersvihle at 11 a. in.; marched on time road to Temmuille Station at 2 p. mu.; reached Teimnille and commenced destroy- ing railroad at 3.30 p. in.; destroyed one mile of track; encamped at Tennille at 5.30 p. m. 20ce)nber 27.Marched at 7.30 a. in. on the 1)avisborougli road; crossed Williamsons Swamp Creek and encamped near 1)avisborongh at 5 ~ in. ~y m ber 28.Marched at daybreak, fohiowin g the railroad, whmi cli the troops destroyed as they advanced; encaniped. at Spiers Turmiout at November 29.lJestroyed about one mile of the railroad at 7 a. mu.; niarchied from Spiers at 11 a. In.; erosse(l Great Coat Creek at 12.30 oclock amid Boggy Girt Creek at 3.30 P. in.; encamped near the Ogee- chee River at night-fahi. Norember 30.Marched at 8.30 a. in.; crossed Mill Creek at 1 p. in.; crossed time Ogeeelmee two miles below Louisville at 4.30 p. in.; encamuilmed two miles beyond the river at 5.30 p. in. December 1.At this (late the brigade was in time midst of the cain- paign against Savanimahi from Atlamuta, Ga. On the day previous (Noveniber 30) it had crossed the Ogeechice River and encaflih)Cd on time left bank near Louisville. From this poimit it marched at V 1mm., in eharoc of the First l)ivision traiis; line of march on the Birdvihle road; crossed Big, I )ry, Spring, anti Bark Cammip Creeks, and emmeaumped at 12.30 a. nin.; distammee umarched, twelve miles. December 2.Marched at 6 a. in. on time roa(l to MilIeu; crossed Buck head (reek at S p. in. and encamped at Buck head Church; marched fourteen miles. December 3.Marched at 7 a. in.; crossed Angusta Bramucim of Georgia Central Railroad near Millen at 12 in.; encamped near Horse Creek at 4.45 p. in.; distance marched, fifteen miles Page 49 CHAP. LVI.l THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 49 December I.Marche(l at 9 a. in. ; briga(le had in charge the division train, the poitooii train, the corps supply traiii, alI(1 the artillery ammunition train; crosse(l Little Ogeechee River, at 5 p. iii. and cii- camped; distance marched, twelve miles. December 5.Marched at 3 p. in.; column greatly retalde(l by bad roa(ls; enCaml)ed at 10 p. in. ; distance marched, three miles and a half. December L.Marche(1 at 9.30 a. in. as rear guard to the corps; line of in arch on the Springfield road; encamped at 9 p. mit.; (listance in arched, thirteen miles. December 7.Marched at 8 a. in. in charge of division aiid cavalry traimis; crossed Cowpens Branch Swamp l)y 1.30 p. in.; encamped one mile above Springfield at 10 p. in.; distance marched, fifteen miles. December 8.Marched at 8 a. in.; crossed Jacks Creek and entered Springfield at 10 a in.; encamped at 5.30 p. in.; marched seventeen miles. December 9.Marche(l at 8.30 a. in. on the road to Monteith. skir- mislung and artillery firing soon began at the front; found the enemy in positiomi with artillery at Moitteith Swamp at 3.15 p. in. Two regi- meimts of the brigadethe Thirty-first Wisconsin and Sixty-first Ohio Veteran Volummteerssent to the left to cross the swamp and turn the enemfs right; movement was snccessftml, compelling the enemy to hastily withdraw. evacuating two fine redonbts. Brigade encamped near the captured redoubt.s at 7 p. mu. J)istammce marched, nine muiles. December 1O.Marcbed at 7 a~. mu; struck the Charleston and Savan- nah Railroad at Monteith Statiomt at 10 a. in.; destroyed omme mile of track and resumed the march toward Savannah; came up to the enemys works, three ntiles and a quarter from the city, at 2.30 p. in.; brigade went imito position in center of division one mile front the Savannah River and encaml)ed; distamice in arched, ten miles. December 11.The brigade shifted its position 400 yards forward and to the left at 4 p. in. and again encamped. Three regiments sent to the rear to guard trains at 11 p. in. Decem ber 12.No change of position. December 13.The remaining three regimemits moved to tite rear to guard the corps trains. Brigade wemit into position, covering all the approaches from the rearcenter at Cherokee Hill, right micar Potters rice mills on tlte Savannah, left connecting with line of tite Fourteemith Army Corps. December 14 to 18.Position unchamiged; camps I)Oliced and otlter sanitary regn lation s instituted. December 19.A foragimtg expeditiomi of twelve companies fromn the brigade sent four miles beyomid Moitteith; it emicountered ami(1 (irove iii the enemys I)ickets, capturing oite J)risoner. December 20.Position unchanged and no denionstrations on the hue. December 21.The Omte hmumtdred amid forty-third New York Volumi- teers sent over to Argyle Island at 1 a. in. to cover the flank of the Second l3rigade, which had crossed over to the South Carolina shore. titformnation that the cuemy had evacuated Savanmmah last iii ght received at 6 a. in. December 22.TIme Omme hundred and forty-third New York Volumi- teers returmied from Argyle Island and resumed its former I)Osition; bmigade remained in its position to cover the removal of the trains to Savanmiah. 4 R HVOL XLI Page 50 50 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. December 23.The brigade ordered to move back toward the city; marched at 9.15 a. in.; went into permanent camp one mile above Savannah at 1 p. ,m. on McAlpins plantation, right resting on the Savannah River, left joining right of the Second Brigade. December 24 to 29.Substantial quarters built aIl(l camp l)oliced; drill and parades resumed. December 30.Brigade and corps reviewed in the city of Savannah by Major-General Sherman. December 31.The Third Division having crossed the Savannah River, the First Division was ordered to occupy its position; brigade changed its position at 11 a. in.; right joined left of the Second Bri- gade, and left rested on the Charleston and Savannah Railroad. & ?COfl(1 J)icision. November 1.In camp in Atlanta. November 5.Moved the entire division two miles out of the city. November (AMoved back to our old camp. November 9.An attack was made by Wheelers cavalry upon the city of Atlanta and was repulsed by us without any loss on our part. No rem ber 15.Entire army on the move; division moved at 8 a. in. by Decatur road; encamped near Stone Mountain; distamic e, fifteen miles. November 1G.Crossed Yellow River, encamping two miles beyond; distance, fifteen miles. November 17.Passed through Social Circle; encamped on the Ulco- fauhachee River; distance, seventeen miles. Norember 18.Encamped near Madison, Ga.; distance, eighteen miles. Noi~ember 19.Division detached from corps; destroyed railroad to Oconee; encamped at Blue Spring; distance, fourteen miles. No rember 20.Marched down west side of Oconee River; distance, ten miles. Novembe~ 21. Weather and roads very bad; moved on toward Milledgeville; distance, eight miles. November 22.Struck Milledgeville railroad; marched through Mil- ledgeville and across Ocoitee River; distance, twenty miles. Norember 23.Remained in camp; destroyed several miles of rail- road. \T0 vember 24.Moved towar(i Sanders yule. - November 25.Crossed Buffalo Ci-cek; roads l)ad and swampy; dis- tance, mime miles. Yoreniber 26. Reached Sandersville at noon; froni there struck the Georgia Central Railroad at Station No. 13 and continued destroying it; distance, thirteen miles. Norember 27.Destroyed railroad all day; distance, twelve miles. November 28.Continued destroying railroad; ci icamnped at Station No. 12. Nom~entber 99 Marched east through Station No. 11 and encaml)C(l within three miles dnd a half of Ogeech ee River; distance, twenty-one miles. November 30.Marched northward; crossed Ogeechee River awl encamped on Big Creek, three miles south of Louisville; (histance, ten miles. December 1.Marched from near Louisville, Ga., to Bark Camp Creek; distance, thirteen miles Page 51 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 51 I)ecember 2.Marched to Buck Head Church; distance, twelve miles. December 3.Marched past Milieu; distance, ten miles. December 4.Marched to Crooked Rui~ distance, four miles. Decem ber 5.Crossed Little Ogeechee; distance, twelve wiles. December G.Marched seven miles. J)eeernber 7.Marched to Springfield; distance, fifteen miles. 1)ecember 8.Marched toward Mouteith; distance, thirteen miles. J)ecember 9.Marched to Monteith Swamp; distance, six miles. 1)ecember 10.Marched within four miles of Savannah, Ga.; dis- tance, eleven miles. December 11 to 20.Siege of Savannah. December 21.Entered Savannah before daylight, several hours in advance of auy other portions of our army. December 22 to 31.Division on post duty, General Geary being commandant of the city. First Brigade, Neco ud Dir is ion. Norember 15.In accordance with orders received the brigade broke camp at Atlanta, Ga., at 7 a. in.; bivouacked for the night near Stone Mountain; distance, thirteen miles. November 16.Marched to near Sheffield, Walton County, Ga., and encamped for the night. No cember 17.Marched to near Social Circle; went into camp for the night at 5 p. in.; distance marched, about eighteen miles. Nom~ember 18.Marched to near Madison, Morgan County, passing through the stations of Social Circle and Rutledge, on the Georgia Railroad, destroying the depots and other public property, also tearing up the railroad track oii the route. Norember 19.The brigade, in company with the other brigades of the division, was ordeied on an expedition down the Georgia Railroad to the Oconee River, to destroy it and the railroad bridge over the above-named stream; went into camp for the night at Blue Spring, Morgan County, Ga., near the Oconee River. November 20.Moved at 7 a. in., and marched to l)unhanis Tannery, Putnam County, Ga. November 21.Moved at 8 a. in., passing by Philadelphia Church, and went into camp for the night. Nocember 22.Moved at 6.30 a. in.; struck the Eatonton and Mu- ledgeville Railroad at 1)ennis Station; unirched down the railroad; crossed Little River near railroad bridge, passing through Milledge- ville. the capital of the State, and went into camp on the east side of the Oconee River, where the brigade remained in camp until the morn- ing of the 24th. Nocember 24.Marclmed at 7 a~. in., and bivouacked on the east side of Gum Creek, Washington County, Ga. AToeember 25.Moved at fi.30 a. in.; was delayed several hours in re- building bridges over Buffimlo Creek, which had been destroyed by the enemy a few days previous, amid encamped for the night on the east side of the creek. November 2G.Moved at S a. in.; marched to Sandersville, Wash- ington County, Ga., at which place the division, in connection with the First Division, was detached and or(lered to Tennille Station, on the Georgia Central Railroad, to destroy the railroad from that place toward 1)avisborough. After (lestroying two iiiiles of track we encamped for the night about thirc~ miles east of the last-named place Page 52 52 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. ICHAP. LVI. Noi~ernber 27.Marched at 7 a. in.; moved along the railroad, tearing it up as we went. After destroying about four miles of the track we marched to Davisborough, and encamped for the night. IVocember -~2S.Moved at 7 a. in., and commenced destroying the rail- road track back toward the place we left off the day previous. After tearing up about three miles of it returned to Davisborough, and en- camped for the imight. Noremnber 29.Marched at 7 a. in. to joiu the corps in the direction of the Ogeechee River; passed through Spiers Station and Bethany, and bivouacked for the night about two miles east of the last-named place. Norember 30.Marched at 7 a. m. toward the Ogeechee River; the bridge being burned over the river was compelled to march toward Louisville Jefferson County, and cross the river near its headwaters, where we joined the corps and encamped for the night. December 1.At Louisville, Jefferson County, Ga.; broke camp at 7 a. in.; marched to Birch Bark Cabin Creek and encamped for the night. December 2.Moved at 6 a. in.; passed through Birdville, Burke County, Ga.; was detained several hours by the bridge over Buck Head Creek being partially destroyed; encamped for the night on the east side of the above-named creek. December 3.Moved at 2 p. in., this brigade being the rear guard of the corps. The brigade did not go into camp umitil 6.30 a. m. of the 4th. December 4.Moved at 7 a. in. and iimarched to the east side of Crooked Creek. December 5.Moved at 7 a~. in.; went into camp for the night at ~ p. m. near the headwaters of the Little Ogeechee River. December 6.Moved at 1 1 a. m. aii(l marched about eleven miles in the direction of Sprimigfiehl and encamped for the night. December 7.Marched at 7 a. mu. and moved to near Springfield, Ga. December 8.Moved at 7 a. mu. in advance of the corps to near Eden; went into camp at 4 p. mu. December 9.Moved at S a. in. in the direction ot Monteith, where the advance of the corps had comisiderable skirmishing with th~ enemy, but dislodged them froiti their fortitle(l position a short time before dark, when the whole corps went into camiip for the night. December 10.Moved at 11 a. in. Our division was left to guard the corps train, while the renmain(lCr of tIme corps l)LlslIetl forwar(l to destroy the Charleston aII(l Savannah Railroad, after ~vhiclL they l)uslled forward toward the city of Savannah. We followed close after and encamnped for the night at the Five-Mile Post, on the Augusta road. December 11.The brigade was ordered to be iii readiness to move at 9 a. in., to await time result of a recomimmaIssance iii force by the Third Brigade, which was (leveloping tIme enemnys limmes from the left of the First I)ivisiomm to time Savanminahi River. T lie brigade moved about 10 a. in. to a cross-roads al)olit half way between the river amid the Savan- nah road, wheim one regimemitthe Twemity-niuth Ohio Volumiteerswas detached to recomimmoiter on time left of the Third Brigade to the river. The brigade ix-as soon after mimoved in the same direction to the bank of the Savammnah Piver, where we first saw the city of Savannah. Time brigade lay mm tlmis I)ositiomL mmmmtil about 4 p. mu., wimen it was moved to time right of time division to relieve the Second Brigade amid fill up the hue l)etweemm the left of the First l)ivision amid the right of our Third Brigade, wlmich was accomplished l)y dark in the following order: th Page 53 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 53 Sixty-sixth Ohio, Tweiity-ei glith Pennsylvania, Twenty-ninth and Fifth Ohio, and One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers. Pickets were taken froni the Sixty-sixth Ohio, which were posted along the edge of the wood bor(lering a field distant from the enemys skir- nuishers about 500 yards. December 12.Lay iii the same position; considerable shelling from the enemy; no injuries received from them; very little firing along the lines. 1)ecember 21.-Reniained in the same position from the 11th until about 3 ~t. m. of the 21st, when this brigade received orders to follow the Third Brigade iii the direction of Savannah, which brigade was l)resslng the enemys l)ickets. We entered the city of Savannah at suit rise. Two regiment sthe T weii ty-cigh th Penusylvami i a and Twen - tv-ninth Ohio Volunteerswere detached to take possession of Fort .Jack son and other fortifications below the city, on the Savannah River. The several regiments of the brigade were then put in camp in several squares or parks, where they remain at the present time [December 31]. Tb ird Brigade, & cond Di ei~ ion. [Xorember.]This brigade lay in camp at Atlanta, Ga., until the 15th. November 15.Started on this campaign; marched to Milledgeville via I)ecatnm-, Stone Mountain, Madison, Blue Spring, and Oconee River. i\ o rem ber 22.Reached 1~1illedgeville. November 24.Left Milledgevihle and main-died, via Buffalo Creek and Tennille Station, to Davisborough. Nocember 27.Arrived at Davisborough, where we were engaged in destroying the railroad one day; had a skirmish with some of Wheelers cavalry; mam-ched, via Spiers Station, to Louisville. J)eeember 1.The brigade broke camp near Louisville, Ga., on the Ogeechmee River; marched to Savannah via Millemi, Springfield, and Monteith. December 10.Arrived within five miles of the city, meeting the enemy. December 11.After a brisk skirmish in the morning gained a very good position near the enemys lines, Remained there until the morn- ing of the 21st. December 21.At 2 a. in., finding the enemy had evacuated, the bri- gade moved dimeetly into the city, since which time it has been doing l)rovost duty. While confronting the enemy near the city the brigade was subject to a severe fire both from artillery and musketry. Third Division. November 1 to 14.The division formed a portion of the garrison of Atlanta, nothing of interest transpiring. November 15.Marched from Atlanta via Stone Mountain, Rock- bridge, Madison, Eatonton, Milledgeville, Sandersville, l)avisborough, and Louisx-ille. November 20.Encamped on Big Creek, Jefferson County, Ga.; n~ skirmishing; lived on the country; forage and supplies abundant. First Brigade, Third Division. December 1.This brigade, part of Major-General Shermans Army of Geom-gia, marched from Louisville, Ga.. easterly; crossed the rail- 1-oa(l to Augusta foum- miles north of Millen- ii easterly through Springfield. , larched tlwnce south Page 54 54 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. December 10.Arrived betbre Savannah; coiistructed ~ line of earth- works and lay under fire of the enemys batteries until the 21st. December 21.The enemy having evacuated the city, this brigade, with the balance of the Twentieth Corps, occu1)ied it and eiicamped in the northwest part. Third Brigade, Third Division. November 1.3.This brigade, part of Major-General Shermans Army of Georgia, moved from Atlanta, Ga., eastei~l~~, through Decatur. Stone Mountain, across Yellow River, through Rockbridge and Social Circle; from the latter place to Rutledge, a distance of seven miles, destroying the Georgia State Railroad at short intervals and railroa(l buildings. Marched thence to Madison amid destroyed a mile of railroad buildings; thence through Eatontou to Milledgeville; crossed the Oconee River and marched through Ilebron, Sandersville, and l)avisborough; crossed the Ogeechee River and encamped on the 30th four miles east of Louisville. CAVALRY. Third Division,.* November 1.At Marietta, Ga. Aovember 14.Moved to Atlanta, 0-a. November 15.Took possession of Anthonys Bridge, Flint River. November 1G.Moved through Jonesborough; found enemy strongly posted at Lovejoys, under General Cobb. The First Brigade charged and drove him from his position, capturing two 3-inch rifled guns; Tenth Ohio Cavalry charged hini again at Bear Creek, when he retreated to Griffin. ~Tovember 19.Crossed the Ocmulgee River at Planters Factory; reached Clinton, Ga. November 20.Moved to Macon, Ga..; drove enemy across Walnut Creek. The Tenth Ohio Cavalry made a charge on enemys works at East Macon, capturing a battery in position, but were forced to leave it. The command fell back to Griswold Station, destroying railroad track to that l)oint. It here captured a train or cars and destroyed a soap and candle fitctory and a pistol factory. November 21 [22].Wheeler a(lvanee(1 with his cavalry corps and three brigades of infantry against Second Brigade, but was repulsed~ and compelled to retire. November 24.Moved to Milledgeville and crossed the Oconee River; moved on Augusta road and crossed the Ogeechee at the shoals. November 25 and 26.Moved through Sylvan Grove, where Wheel- ers force attacked us in flank and rear, but was repulsed, with heavy loss. November 27.Struck the railroad at Waynesborough, the advance under Captain Estes, assistant adjutant-general, having destroyed the station and train of cars captured day previous, and partly burned the bridge over Brier Creek. Here I learned that our prisoners had been moved from Millen, Ga.; and, after destroying track sufficient to prevent transportation for a few days, deemed it prudent to retire our infantry in direction of Louisville, Ga. Wheeler attacked ream- and flank with desperate recklessness whenever opportunity offered, but was easily repulsed. * Commanded by Brig. Gen. Judson Kilpatrick Page 55 (HAP. LVI.1 Till: SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 55 Norember 2R.Cr4)SSCd RA)cky (reek aiid Waited for the eiiemy to come up, which he did, with his entire force, chargiiig as lie came, but was repulsed again and again; was forced to retire, after losing not less than 600 killed and wounded. Nocember 29.Reached Left Wing of the army at Louisville, Ga., where the division encamped for the neV few (lays, resting for the first time. December 1.Marched in advance of a division of ii~fantry on the Waynesborough road; found the enemy in position behind barricades. The Fifth Kentucky and Eighth Indiana Cavalry charged, and after a brisk fight compelled them to retire. Marched seven miles and en- camped for the night. December 2.Marched at early hour; came up alI(l engaged enemy at Rocky Creek, and drove them in confusion toward Waynesborough an(l Augusta; emicamped near Lumpkins Station. December 3.Marched on railroad and encamped at Thomas Station. December 4.Marched out of camp to engage Wheelers cavalry (eiicamped at Waynesborough, Ga..), composed of four (livisions and two independent brigades. Came upon his advance two miles fromim town. The Second Brigade, beino in advance, charged him in position, b alI(l after a fiercely contested struggle of about one hours (Iliration (lrOVC him into town, where lie again took up a strong position, deter- milie(l to hold the town at all hazards. The First Brigade, now hay- big the a(lvance, charged him in the new position, and with equal success. The enemy now fell back in great confusion beyond Bear Creek, closely pursued. They were in this engagement not only (le- feated, but completely routed and driven in great confusion a distance of eight miles; 200 rebels left in our hands wounded by the saber alone. Encamped for the night at 01(1 Church. December 5 to 7.Moved at 7 a. m. on the 5th, in rear of the Four- teenth Army Corps, to Jacksonborough; the 6th,. to Rock Head Creek. The 7th encamped near Sisters Ferry. December 8 to io.3 a. in. crossed the Ebenezer Creek and encamped five miles from Springfield. 9th, moved in rear of the Seventeenth Army Corps and encamped at Poolem Station, eleven miles from Savannah, Ga. 10th, encamped five miles from Savannah, Ga. December 11.Patrolled the Ogeechee River to fimid a crossing and encamped near Kings Bridge. December 12.Crossed the Ogeechee and Cammuouchee on pontoons. Encamped four miles of Fort McAllister, which we intended to attack aimd take on the tbllowing umornimig-. J)ecember 13.Received orders from the general-in-chief not to attack the fort, but try and open communication with our fleet at Saint Catlie- riimes Sound, which was done. Encamped at Kilkeminy Blult December 14.First Brigade encaniped at Sunbury; Second Brigade, at Midway. Nothing transpired. Decem ber 15.In camp. December IG and 17.Marched to vicinity of Kings Bridge and went into cami). 17th, 2,000 men, under Colonel Atkins, imi conjunction with one divisiomi of infantry, moved to Altamaha bridge to destroy it and railroad track. The former being (hifficult of approach and strongly defended, its destruction was prevente(l; biut the latter was thoroughly destroyed, and the command returned to (amnp, 1)atmoliing the Ogeechiee until the 23d, wlmemi headquarters amid First Brigade crossed and wemit into camp imimie muiles fromu Savanmiah, where time comiimnand is now 1)ecember :31] encaniped Page 56 5(3 OPERATIONS IN S. C, GA., ANI) FLA. [CHAP. LVI. iNo, 4. Reports of Capt. Orlando ilL Poe, Corps of Engineers, U. A. Army, (Thief Engineer. IIDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, CHIEF ENGiNEERS OFFICE, ASarann alt, Ga., 1)ecember 26, 1864. SIR: I have the honor of reporting to the Engineer Department as follows Concerning the operations which have just ended in the occu- pation of Savannah and the opening of complete communications be- tween this army and the forces jil the l)epartment of the South: On the 15th of November the Fifteenth, Seventeeiith, and Twentieth Army Corps took up their line of march from Atlanta. Preparatory to the movement, General Sherman directed me to destroy with engi- neer troops all railroads and property belonging thereto; all store- houses, machine shops, mills, thctories, & c., within the hues of the ene- mys defenses at Atlanta. rfhle work of (lestructioll was thoroughly done, under my personal supervision, by the Michigan Enoineers and Missouri Engineers. About ten niiles of track were destroyed by bnrning the wood-work and twisting each rail, the. latter operation being performed by a very simple machine designed by myself. The designated buildings were first burned and the walls afterward razed to the ground. For military purposes the city of Atlanta has ceased to exist, there being no railroad either to or from it. The Chatta- nooga road was destroyed from Cartersyille to Atlanta, the West Poimit road to Fairburn, and the Macon road to Lovejoys. On the morning of the iStli of November the march begantIme Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps taking the roads which lead to Griswold and Gordon, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad, and the cavalry mnovimig upomi their right flank, threatening Macon; the Twentieth Corps took that passing through Stone Momitain to Social Circle, omi the Augusta rail- road; the Fourteenth Corps moved omi time morning of tIme 16th of No- vember, taking the road through Lithonia and Covington. The Twentieth Corps destroyed the Augusta railroad from Social Circle to a point near Greensborough, the Fourteenth Corps destroying from Litlmonia to Social Circle. The Twentieth Corps then hurried southward through - Eatonton to Milledgeville, which place they entered on time evening of the 22d of November. The Fourteenth Corps deflected at Brick [Store I and passed via Shady l)ale, Salem, Eatonton Factory, Vaughns, and Raimoth to Milledgeville, where tlmey arrived early in the morning of tIme 23d of November. The Fifteenth and Seventeenth destroyed the Geor- gia Central Railroad fromn Griswold to Tennille Station, including the Oconee bridge. The cavalry made a strong demonstration On the works at Macon, and afterwarif destroyed the railroad from Griswold westward, to include Walnut Creek bridge, three miles east of Macon. The cav- alry, supported by Walcutts brigade, of the Fifteenth Army Corps, had a severe fight at Duncans farm on the 21st [22dJ of November, in which our forces gained a complete victory. On the 24th of November the Fourteenth and the Twentieth Corps ammd the cavalry moved from Milledgeville, the cavalry taking time road, via Sylvan Grove, to Waym I esboron gh, in temmdi mig to pass to the eastward of Millen, and, if possible, liberate time prisoners of war at that point. They struck time Augusta and Milieu branch railroad near Waymmes- borough, captured a train of cars, and l)urmmed some track and bridges, but learning tlmat the prisoners lmad becim remox-ed from Milleim turimed back. The Fourteenth Corps marched direct for Saudersville and th Page 57 CHAP. LVI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 57 Twentieth Corps took the road, via Ilebron, to the sanie place. At this point some cavalry, under the coiiini~ind of Wheeler, otfrred resistance, but were quickly dispersed, only the skirmishers of the advanced guard of the two infantry corps being engaged. The court-house in Sanders- yule, a very substantial buick building, was burned by order of Gem eral Sherman, because time enemy had made use of its portico from which to fire upon our troops. The Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps, which had beeii destroying railroad, here communicated from Irwins Cross-Roads, and then left time railroad, the order of march being as follows: The cavalry on time left dank; the Fourteenth Corps direct to Louisville the Twentieth Corps, via t)avisborough, to Ogeechee bridge, destroying time railroad from Tennille Station to awl including said bridge; the Seventeenth Corps, by the first road south of the railroad, to Burton Station (No. 94); and the Fifteenth Corps via Johnsons. The Twentieth Corps, after burning Ogeechee bridge, passed to the northw-ard through Louisville; the Seventeenth Corps crossed the Ogeechee on a pontoon bridge at station 94, and thence moved along the railroad to the Five-Mile Post from Savannah; time Twentieth Corps tlmrough Springfield; and the Fourteenth Corps close as possible to time Savannah River; ~hie Fifteenth Corps continued on the south si(le of the Ogeeclmee to Station 2 (Eden), when three divisions crossed to the north side, while one (Hazens) moved on dowii to Fort McAllis- ter, which work was very hmandsonmely carried by assault, capturing the entire garrison, twenty-three guns, and all the stores. The same even- ing General Shmerman personally conimunicated with time fleet. Orders had beemi given on the previous day for the investmnent of the city. No attellml)t at assault was lna(le, though the opinion universally prevailed that such an attempt would be successful. The general commanding was miot willing to sacrifice any lives, feeling certain that time city must soon fall into our hands at any rate. The line occupied by the enemy was as follows: Beginning at the mouth of the smuall creek emptying immto the Savannah two miles and a half above the city; thence along the southeastern bank of that creek umitil the headwaters of Salt Marsh Creek were reached; themi follow- in g aloimg that streamn to amid along Yeuion River to the sea, the lower l)olnts beimmg held by (letached works behind impassable swamps. All the approaches to this line w-ere rendered very difficult by dams con- structed across all small streaius. A line was found interior to this, comumemicing at Laurel Grove Cemetery on the right, and resting on the river between Savannah and Fort Jacksomm. This was a very heavy line, consisting in part of a contimmuous bastioned line and in l)art of a system of detached lunettes in defensive relations. No attempt was made by the enemy to hold this line. They abandoned Savannah and all its dependencies on time mmight of I)eeember 20, and we occupie(l theni omi the moriming of the 21st, a vast amount of warlike material and many guns (the number not yet definitely known) falling into our hands. 1 noticed among them one brass 6-pounder having upon it tIme arms of the State of Georgia and the words Georgia Military Imisti- tute. I suggested to Captain Baylor, chief of orduamice, that lie send that 0-un to the Military Academy at West Poimit, and lie has signified huis intention of doing so. The enemny evidently evacuated his position on account of want of supplies. An assault had been ordered, and would have been made in a day or two, which would probably Imave been successful. 1 should have said that the enemny, in consequence of our occupation of the city, destroyed his gun-boats and the iron.clad rani Savannah Page 58 58 OPERAT1ON~S IN S. C., GA., ANI) FLA. [CHAP. LVI. A new line of (lefeIlses selected by myself a id a~)proved by Geiie~al Sherman has been began, Captain Reese, Corps of Engineers, being charged with its construction. It will consist of a system of detached lunettes, iii defensive relations, which are intended to be connected at our leisure. These works will l)e princip~Wy armed with cal)tured guns. The line will be about two miles and a half in development and is intended for a garrison of about 5,000 men. On the march, the Engineer Department was constantly engaged in the most arduous duties, repairing roa(ls, building bridges, destroying railroads, and all other matters coanlig within our l)rovillce. I think I can safely say that the department is popular in this army, and enjoys the esteem and confidence of all commanders. Not having yet received detailed reports, I cannot specify the amount of labor pci- formed, but it was immense. Capt. C. B. Reese, chief engineer Department and Army of the Ten- nessee, was my constant reliance and support. The Corps of Engineers has no more valuable officer in the field. Ilis services are appleciate(l in the army to which he belongs. First Lieutenant Stickney acted as assistant to Captain Reese and discharged his dnty in a satisfactory immaim er. First Lient. William Ludlow acte(l as chief engineer of the wing commanded by General Slocuin, and is highly commended l)y that oft- cer. He is a (lashing young officer. The pontoon train accompanying the Left Wing was in charge of the Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers. Col. George P. Buell eomman(ling; that with the Right Wing was in charge of the First Missouri Engi- iteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Tweeddale. Neither of these trains, though frequently used, failed mis at any time. Timeir efficiency became a subject of remark throughout the army. One of these trains (the one belong- ing to the Right Wing) has beemi hanled on wagons all the way from ~ashville, Teun., whence it started in April last, aim d it is still in aim efficient conditionstrono evidence of the dmirability of f lie canvas pontoon train. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedieuut servant, G.M. POE, Captain of Engineers, Chief Engineer if ii. Div. of the Mississippi. Brig. Gen. R. DELAPIELD, Chief of Engineers, U. S. Army. WASHINGTON, B.C., October 8, 1865. SIR:* Earl.y in November the preparations for the march to Savannah were completed and everything held in readiness therefor. Umuder di- rectiomus from tlme major-gemmeral commandino enoineer orders were issued making the proper assignment of emmoineer troops an(l bridge trains. Meammwhile a freshet in tIme Chattahoochice carried away all our trestle bridges, and such as were muecessary for the passage of time army on its return to Atlanta were rehaid from the pontoomi trains. They were put down, two at the Chattahoochee railroad bridge amid one at Turners Ferry. For portion of report (here omitted) relating to the Atlanta Campaign, etc., see Vol. XXXVIII, Part I, p. 127 Page 59 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 59 The engineer organization for the march to Savannah was as follows: First. Engineer troops and troops of the line on engineer duty: (1) First Regiment Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, Col. J. 13. Yates, unassigned, receiving orders direct. from headquarters Military Di vision of the Mississippi, ten companies, 1,500 men. (2) First Missouri En- gineers, Lient. Col. William Tweeddale, in charge of pontoon trajim with Right Wing (Army of the Tennessee), live companies, 500 men. (3) Fifty-eighth liegimnent Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Col. George P. Buell, in charge of pontoon train of Left Wing, ten companies, 775 men. Total, 2,775 in en. Second. Pioneers: Left Wing, six (hivisions, each having a pioneer corps of the average strength of 100 men, 600 men; Right Wing, seven divisions, each having a pioneer corps of the average strength of 100 whites and 70 negroes, 1,200 men; total, 1,800 men. Recapitulation: Engineer troops and troops of the line doing engineer duty, 2,775 men; pioneers, 1,800 men; aggregate for engineer duty, 4,575 mnemi. Third. Tools and tool trains: Each of the pioneer corps carried a suf- ficient number of tools to work their full strength, and in the Right Wimmg they were supplied with a duplicate set, which were carried iii wagons. In the Left Wing each brigade was provided with a tool wagon, loaded with about 350 intrenching tools. A great many axes and shovels were in the hands of the troops, but always within reach iii case of emergency. The Michigan Engineers amid Mechanics had a train of fifty wagons, of which twenty were loaded with tools, as fol- lows: 1,500 axes and helves, 1,500 shovels, 700 picks and helves, 200 hatchets, amid an ample supply of carpenters and bridge l)uilding tools, an(l extra. saws and augers; also, 100 hooks which I had devised for twistimmg railroad iron. The remainder of the wagons carried subsist- ence and quartermasters stores. The Missouri Engineers had a much smaller traiii, which was somewhat mixed up with the pontoon train of which they had charge. They carried time following intrenching tools: 500 shovels S smiths tools. 00 axes; also, an assortmnent of carpenters and black- Fourth. Pontoon trains: Left Win gpontoniers, Fifty-eighth Regi- muent Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Col. George P. Buehl commanding, 775 mcmi. Materials: 51 canvas pontoon-boats, complete, 15 extra covers, 10 anchors, 2,000 pounds rope, 37 horses, 505 mules, 94 wagons, 3 ambulances, 2 tool wagons,3 forges, 850 chesses, 196 balks, and the necessary harness, & c., to make the outfit complete. This regiment carried its own supplies of subsistence and forage on the wagomis in tIme above list. The length of bridge which could be built from this train by cutting small timber for the balk was 850 feet. Right Wingpomm- toniers, First Missouri Engineers, Licut. Col. William Tweeddahe comn- manding; strength, 530 men. Materials: 28 canvas pontoon-boats com- plete, 28 boat wagons, 600 chesses, 15 chess-wagons, 196 claw balks, 1 forge, 1 battery wagon, 2 tool wagons (a general assortment), 7 forage wagons, and a snificient quantity of harness, rope, & c. Length of bridge, 580 feet; total length of bridges, 1,430 feet. The foregoing was the emmgimiecr organization and equipment which was considered sufficient to umake the campaign which I knew would be made to Savamnmah. On the 7tlr of November I received a telegram from General Simermnan directing me to take charge of the destruction of the railroads, depots, steamim machinery, & c., in the city of Atlanta.. On the 9th 1 telegraphed as follows: I amn all ready to (ho the wor Page 60 60 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. assigHe(l me, and will act the instant I ~ct your order to do so. I had called together the cominamling officers of the engineer regiiuents and explained to them just what I wante(I done, an(L we had selected the buildings and works for (lestrliction. On the morning of the 12th Gen- eral Sherman directed me to l)roceed with my work, but to be careful not to nse fire, which would endanger other buildings than those set apart for destruction. The etigineer regiments ~vere divided into detach- ments, tinder picked officers, each of whom received a written order as follows: You will please take the detachment now nn(ler your (Jr(lers to the first high chim- ney (stating locality an(l buildings) and throw it down, :111(1 continue the work along (stating the route) until you reach (the point designatc(1 as the limit of work for this detachment), being careful not to use tire in (loing the work, since it would endanger buildings which it is not intended to destroy. These orders were faithfully carried out, and ijeither tire nor powder was used for destroying buildings until after they had been put in ruins by battering down the walls, throwing down smokestacks, breaking up furnace arches, knocking steam machinery to pieces, and ~)Llnch1ing all boilers full of holes. The i-ailroads withiui the limits of the old rebel defenses were destroyed by tearing up the iron, pili~ng up the ties, and after 1)ntting the rails across them firing the wood which heated the iron and then the rails were twisted. Tue rails were torn up by using a small but very strong iron cant hook, devised by myself, and after they were heated were twisted by applying the same hooks at each end of each rail and twisting the iron bar around its horizontal axis, being careful t~o give the rail at least a half turn. The length of railroad destroyed in this manner, withiu the limits illdicat.e(1 above, was ai)out ten miles. The depots, car-sheds, maclime-shops, and water- tanks were also destroyed. it was not until the evening of the 15th of November that fire was apl)lied to the heaps of rubbish we had made. I was upon the ground in person to see that the work was done in a proper and orderly man- ner; and~ so f)ir as engineer troops were concerne(I, this was the case. But many buildings iii the business part of the city were destroyed by lawless persons, who, by sneaking around in blind alleys, succeeded iii firing many houses which it was not intended to touch. Three army corps moved on the morning of the 15th of November, striking boldly out toward the sea. On the morning of the 16th the other army corps and the headquarters military division moved. The muap* forwarded to the Bureau of Engineers with my letter dated Golds- borough, N. C., April 7, 1865, will indicate the routes pursue(l by each army corps until our arrival in front of Savannah. During this march the Augusta railroad was (lestroyed, as described above, to imiclude the Oconee bridge. The Georgia Central was destroyed from Walnut Creek, within three niiles of Macomi, to the city of Savannah. The Charleston and Savannah Railroad from the Savannah River bridge to Savannah, the Savannah and Gulf Railroad from Savannah to the Altamaha, the branch from MilIeu to Augusta for several miles from MilIeu, and the bramich from Gordon to Eatonton suffered severely. Pontoon bridges were built at time followimig points: Over the Yellow River, at railroad crossing, 100 fret over the Ulcofhuhmachee, at road crossing, 80 feet; over the Ocmulgee, at Planters Factory, 200 feet; over the Little River, at railroa.d crossing, 250 feet; over the Oconee River, at Balls Ferry, 300 feet; over the Bnflhlo Creek, on Sanders- ville road, 400 feet; over tIme Buft)tlo Creek, on upper Sandersville - To appear in the Atlas Page 61 CHAP. LVI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 61 road, 400 feet; over the Ogeechee River, on Louisville road, ~00 feet; over the Ogeechee River, near Burton Station, 200 feet; over the Ogee- chee River, Jones Ferry, 300 feet; over the Buck Head Creek, on Millen road, 100 feet; over the Little Ogeechee, near Station 4~, 80 feet; over the Ogeechee, at Jenks Ferry, 300 feet; over the Ogeechee, at Daltons Ferry, 250 feet; over the Ogeechee, at Hiltons Bridge, 300 feet; total, 3,460 feet. On the 10th of December the army arrived in front of Savannah. Reconnaissances were pushed south of the Cannouchee River, and, for- tunately, a plan of Fort McAllister was found. Other reconnaissances were made along the entire extent of the enemys front, which was found located along the southeastern edge of the chain of swamps running from the Savannah River, opposite Kings Island, via the point where the Ogeechee road crosses Salt lXIarsli Creek, to the junction between Salt Marsh Creek and the Little Ogeechee, and thence through the Vernon, Rosedew, and Beaulien batteries to Fort McAllister. This line was intrenched in the usual manner, and the defenses were greatly strengthened by closing the sluice gates at the Savannah River and building dams across ~aIt Marsh Creek, the effect being to make a body of water in front of their entire line. On the 11th it was decided to attack Fort McAllister, as that was the only obstacle to our free communication with the fleet in Ossabaw Sound. The enemy had destroyed the bridge over the Ogeechee, on the Darien road, commonly knowim as the Kings Bridge. This was rebuilt by the First Missouri Engineers, under (lirection of Capt. C. B. Reese, Corps of Engineers, and chief engineer i)epartmemit amid Army of the Tennessee, and on the morning of the 13th the Second l)ivision, Fif teenth Army Corps, crossed over aimd moved along the south bank of the river, reaching the vicinity of Fort McAllister in the afternoon. As soon as the troops could be properly formed the assault was made, and the fort was carried in handsomne style. The same evening the general commanding the military divisiomi passed (lown the river and conunumiicated with the fleet. Fort McAllister stood on the right bank of the Ogeechee River, at the first point of fast land met with in ascemiding that stream, and perfectly commanded the chanimel. The trace of the fort was irregular, the water front confbrinimig to the shore himie and the line of fast land, while the hand froimt was on a regular bastioned trace. The gumisof which there were twenty-twowere gen- erally mounted in barbette. The fort was provided on its land front with a good ditch, having a row of stout Palisades at its bottom well built glacis, and a row of excellemit abatis, exterior to which was phinted a row of 8-inch shells arranged to explode when trodden upon. These shells were arranged in a simigle row just outside the abatis, and were about three feet from center to center. It was impossible to move ami assaulting force upon the fort without suffering from the explosion of these shells. The fhct that nearly all the gnus of the fort were mounted in barbette remidered it much easier to carry it by assault, since our skirmish line advancing at a run readily approached within 200 yards, and by throwing themselves flat on the grommnd were well con- cealed by the high grass, and could pick off the rebel gunners at their leisure, readily silencing the fire of the fort, after which our assaulting force was formed in frill view of and not immore than 500 yards from the 1)araPet. After the capture of Fort McAllister the obstructions in the river, consisting of a double row of piles and torpedoes, were removed, and steam-boats ascended to the Kings Bridge, where was established ou Page 62 62 (CHA.P.LVL OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. depot of supplies. Some of the guns were removed from Fort McAllis- ter and taken there l)reparatory to placing them in battery along our lines, and six 30-pounder Parrotts were brought down from Hilton Head for the same purpose. We were t~st getting ready for another assault, which would this time have been made directly upon their main line,when, on the night of the 20th of December, the enemy, crossing the Savan- nah River on a bridge of flat-boats, made h~s escape, having abandoned a large number of guns amid other material of war, and blown up his iron-dads. In this case, as in that of Atlanta, no attempt was made to make regular siege approaches. Our lines were thrust forward at all poiiits to the edge of the water defenses of the enemy without any neces- sity for siege approaches, and beyond that it was useless to attempt anything of the kind. We could only get into the rebel lines by open assault, which was deemed quite l)racticable, particularly near the crossing of the Ogeechee road over Salt Marsh Creek, and in front of our batteries at Shaws Bridge, over the Ogeechee Canal. I had closely reconnoitered the latter point amid found that the natural obstacles were not very great, but the enemys works were strongest here. Soon after Olil- occupation of the city of Savamiuah, the major-general com- nianding directed me to select a new hue, to be intrenched for the defense of such stores, depots, and material as we would leave there in future operations. In company with Captaimi Reese, I mnade a careful recon- naissance, and decided upon the location and character of the works. These were, in their main features, a system of large lunettes to be closed at the gorge and to be placed in defensive relations with each other, so that they might be held independently, but to be also con- nected by curtains of infantry paral)et, so as to be used as a continu- ous line, if that was deemned desirable. The estimated garrison was 5,000 men. The location of the new lines was very nearly the same as those of 1814. Before leaving Savannah on the campaign through the Carolinas, by request of General Grover, who was left in command at Savannah, I handed him a paper, of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS MILITARY DIVISION OF THE Mississippi, CHIEF ENGINEERS OFFICE, Savannah, Ga., January 21, 1865. Major-General GROVER, Commanding U. S. Force8, Savannah: GENERAL: In accordance with your request I have the honor of submitting the following memoranda, with reference to the defensc of tile city of Savannah: First. The defense of the city itself: This is accomplished l)y the line of works now in process of construction, after the plan indicated in my letter to Major-General Shemian, dat& l December 26, 1864. These works are now ready to receive sixty guns, partly siege and partly held artillery, and in my Ol)inlOlI are in a condition which would. warrant their defense by the garrison estimatcd for. Captain Suter, U. S. Engineers, and chief engineer Department ot the South, has been furnished with a trace of this line, on which the several positions ot the guns composing the complete armament are indicated. Captain Suter has also l)ccu furnished with those maps captured at this city which relate to tIme defuse. Opposite the city, on the main Carolina shore, two small works shoul(l be built to command the Union cause- way and the Huger causeway. The above contemnidates in attack by a much iarger force than the garrison, and, in my opinion, will never l)e made. Second. The defense of the approaches: Three main roads lead into the city from inlaimd, viz, the Ogeechee plank road (Darien road), the Louisville stage road, the Augusta stage road. The last two join within one mile and a half of the city. The points where the enemys late lines crossed these roads furnish the best defense. When taken in conjunction with time obstacles forumed by opening the sluice gates at high tide the positions are strong. If the bridge across the Ogeechee at Kings is destroyed, it effectually cuts off direct approach by that road, and it can only be reached b Page 63 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 63 crossing the river above and getting to it by some of the numerous cross-roads. An enemy would not be likely to do this, unless he were in largely superior force, since he would necessarily put himself in a pocket. Third. The defense of the river navP~ation: This is best accomplished by a force stationed at this city large enough to go out ind tight any enemy that would be likely to approach. In order that our oj~ponents might reach any of the points where they could injure us much, they would h~ compelled to thrust themselves some miles hey ond us, leaving whatever garrison there niight be in Savannah on their flank and in rear. They could not interrupt navigation without establishing themselves in inclosed works upon the bank of Saint Augustine Creek (we bold Fort Jackson). and a very short time would suffice for the capture of any enemy having temerity enough to do this. With all our great resources of water trausj)ortation I regard it impossi- ble for our enemy to make a successful lodgment on Saint Augustine Creek. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. M. POE, Captain, En gineers, Brevet Colonel, U. S. Army, Chief Engineer Military Division of the Missisiippi. A map* is in course of preparation, under my direction, which will clearly show the topography of Savannah and vicinity, the works of attack and defense, the new lines constructed during our occupation of the city, and the lines of 1814. As soon as completed it will be for- warded to the Engineer Department.t All of which is respectfully submitted. O.M. POE, Captain, U. S. Engineers, Brevet Brigadier- General, U. S. Army. No. 5. Report of Capt. Thomas G. Baylor, U. S. Army, Chief Ordnance Officer. Memorandum list of ordnance and ordnance stores captured from the enemy in the campaign from Atlanta to Savannah, ending Decem- ber 21, 1864: Captured and destroyed by the Left Wing at Milledgeville, Ga. Rifle muskets, caliber .69 - - 2, 300 Lances 5,000 Cutlasses 1,500 Small-arm ammunition ounds 30,000 Artillery ammunition do. - . 5,470 Powder pounds~~ 20, 000 Captured in Forts McAllister, Beaulien, Bosedew, Barlow, Thunderbolt, Jackson, Lee, Boggs, Brown, Water Battery O1~J)O5ite Fort Jackson, Lawlon Battery, in the line8 around the city of Savannah and in the city of Savannah. ARTILLERY. For smoot4s-bore gun 167 For rifled guns 35 For mortars 7 Total 209 See Map 2, Plate LXX of the Atlas. For continuation of report, relating to the campaign of the Carolinas, etc., see Vol. XLVII, Part I Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. AIITILLERY CARRIAGES. Barbette Casemate Siege Field Total 76 1 6 41 124 ARTILLERY AMMUNITION. Rounds. For smooth-bore guns 19,843 For rifled guns 1, 903 For mortars 17 Total 21, 763 SMALL ARMS. Various kinds 183 INFANTRY AMMUNITION. Musket cartridges, caliber .59 8, 000 Musket buck and ball cartridges, caliber .69 ... - 7, 500 Elongated ball cartridges, caliber .57 11, 000 Sharps rifle 3,000 Rifled iron balls 18, 000 Buck and ball cartridges, caliber .75 4, 000 Total 51,500 Expenditures of amino nition during the campaign. ARTILLERY AMMUNITION. Rounds. For 3-inch guns 2, 099 For light 12-pounder guns 1, 218 For 30-pounder Parrott guns 30 For 20-pounder Parrott guns 229 Total 3, 576 SMALL-ARM AMMUNITION. Elongated ball, caliber .57 Spencer rifle Burnside carbine Sharps carbine Smith carbine Colt army pistol Colt navy pistol Henry rifle Cartridges. 950, 915 141,396 56,000 62,000 21,000 8, 600 4, 800 500 Total 1,245,211 T. C-. BAYLOR, Captain and Chif ~f Ordnance, Mu. Die. ~f the 3Iissis8tpp~ Page 65 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 65 No. 6. Report of Col. Amos Beckwith, U. S. Army, Chief Commissary of Sub sistence. Statement of cattle on hand at Atlanta and captercd while en route to Savannah. On hand On hand at Captured en Slaughtered when army Atlanta. route, en route, arrived at Savannah. Twentieth Corps 429 2. 204 889 1, 744 Fourteenth Corps 2, 047 590 20 2, 617 Army of the Tennessee (Fifteenth aiid 1, 000 10, 500 9, 000 2, 500 Seventeenth Corps). Total 3,476 13,294 9,909 6,861 A. BECKWITII, Colonel, Aide-dc- Camp and Commissary of Subsistence. No. 7. Report qf ]lIaj. Gen. Olirer 0. Howard, U. S. Army, commanding Army of the Tennessee. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Sarannah, Ga., December 28, 1894~ CAPTAIN: The campaign of Savannah is so closely connected with the campaign into Alabama, just closed, and I have so carefully stated the strength of my army and left it concentrated at Atlanta, where it remaiLled but one day, that I will Ilot weary you with a repetition. General Shermans Field Orders, Nos. 115 and 119, issued from Kings- ton, Ga.,* so remarkable for completeness and so explicit that they could not be lmsunderstood, have been faithfully adhered to. They were the means of initiating preparations filly adequate to the work that has been accomplished. My command consisted of two army corpsthe Fifteenth (Maj. Gen. P. J. Osterhaus), of four divisions, as follows: First Division, Brig- adier-General Woods Second Division, Brig. Gen. W. B. ilazen; Third Division, Brig. Gen. John E. Smith Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. J. M. Corse; the Seventeenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. F. P. Blair commanding, consisted of three divisions, as follows: First Division, Maj. Gen. J. A. Mower; Third Division, Brig. Gen. M. D. Leggett; Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. Giles A. Smithone regiment cavalry (First Alabama), one regiment of engineers (First Missouri), and a bridge train of suf- ficient capacity to throw two bridges across any stream that we found en route. At Gordon I made tile following report, which I will resubmit with- out change: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT ANI) ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Gordon, Ga., November 23, 1864. GENERAL: In accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 124, from your headquar- ters, dated November 14, 1864, my command marched from White Hall, near Atlanta. in two columns. The left column, Major-General Blair commanding, took the direct See Vol. XXXIX, Part III, pp. 627, 701. 5 R RVOL XLIV CHAP. LVI. Page 66 (CHAP. LVI. 66 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FIiA. McDonough road. This column consisted of the Seventeenth Corps, bridge train, engineer regiment, and supply train of General Kilpatricks cavalry, the whole pre- ceded by the First Alabama Reghnent. The right column, of Fifteenth Corps, Major- General Osterhans commanding, department headquarters train, and the herds of cattle. This column moved via Rough and Ready, turning to the left toward Mc- Donough, about five miles from Jonesborough. Upon the evening of the 15th the con- mand went into campKilpatrick near Jonesborough, the heads of the t~vo infantry columns near Stockbridge. Kilpatrick met the enemys cavalry skirmishers near East Point, and drove them before him to the crossing of Flint River. Osterhaus met theni not far from Rough and Ready, and again in the vicinity of Stoekbridge. He found encamped at that point Lewis brigade of rebel cavalry, reported 900 strong. November 16, 1864, the command marched to the vicinity of MeDonough by three routes. General Osterhaus met the enemys cavalry at the crossing of Cotton River. They retreated rapidly, setting fire to the bridge. Some amounted infantry that he had in advance drove them from time bridge in time to pnt omit the fire and save everything but the planking. The bridge was imimmediately repaired, and detained the column just forty uminutes. General Kilpatrick crossed the Flint River at time bridge near Jonesborough at 7 a. m. Finding the enemny had left that place, he fol- lowed him to Lovejoys, where he occupied the strong position there, having two bri- gades of cavalry and two pieces of artillery, and holding the old rebel works. The general charged time works with dismounted cavalry and carried them, driving back the enemy. Subsequently the enemys artillery was overtaken by another charging colummi, and captured. He drove the enemny beyond Bear [Creek] Station, capturing over fifty prisoners. He then moved to time left and encamped on the Griffin and Mc- Donough road. November 17, 1864, moved to Jacksomm and its vicinity in three columns, encamp- ing, the right near Indian Springs and the left at Hendricks Mill. General Kilpat- rick moved to Towahiga Creek. Some cavalry of the enemy crossed the creek, burning the bridges. November 18, 1864, the nearest division was pushed to Nuttings (or Planters) Fac- tory early next moriming, and a part of it crossed over by time ferry. Time bridge arrived at about 10 a. in., was laid, and time troops commenced crossimig at 1 p. mu. Durii~g that day and night, General Blairs corps, Third Divisiomm, Fifteemmth Army Corps, and all the cavalry, had crossed. Time hill on the east side was steep, and time heavy rain during the night rendered time ascemmt extremely difficult. On the mormming of the 19th instant regiments were (letailed in each division to assist the trains in getting up the hill. 1he Fifteenth Corps, followimmg the cavalry, took country roads to Hilisborough. The Seventeenth Corps moved to the vicinity of Hillsborough via Monticello. lIme roads now becomiming very lineavy, the prorress was slow. We had two i)ridges at the poimmt of crossing, and they were kept full all day, yet the crossing was not coumpleted by the rear goard umitil the mormuimmg of the 20th instant. November 20, 1864, tIme command moved on Gordon in two (ohlimmmnsGeneral Ku- patrick with his cavmulry takiimg the Clinton roa(l and the river road toward Macon; General Osterhaus, with the bridgetrain, cavalry train, & c., move(l toward Cimuton; General Blair with his comamnand via Bloummtsvihle. rime head of the right colummi en- camped at Clinton, and the left near Fortville. General Kilpatrick waited at Chimiton until the arrival of time Imead of time infantry column, at 12 mini., whmemm lie muoved omit toward Macon on the left Macon road. He met the enemys cavalry about four miles from Macon, drove them in, and clmar~ed their works, defended by limfantry and artil- lery. The head of his cohmmnmn got inside time works, but cOmil(l umot hold tlmem. He succeeded in reaching the railroad and destroyed about one mule of time track. rho road was struck in two or three places by time cavalry, besides the above, and a train of cars burned. It rained hard during the emutire night. November 21, 1864, the cavalry took imp an advanced l)osition eoverimmg all tIme roads debouching froma Macon. General Blair continued his mmmarch (hirect Oii Gordon, reaching that place with his leading divisiomi. The right column was subdivided, two divisions, with small trains, takimmg the road toward Irwinton, and the rest, with headquarters, bridge trains, cattle, & c., mnovimig on the direct Gordon road. The center and left columns met at a point six ninihes from Gordon, called Pitts Mill, where the center made a parminllel road into Gordon. Only the division of General G. A. Smith, however, reached Gordon on the 21st instant. November 22, 1864, the troops and tralims were closed imp toward Gordon, except- inr General Woods division, who was directed to take up a strong position on the Jr~inton road, and make a demonstration toward Macon. Time demonstration was made by General Walcutts brPrade in commj unction with the cavalry, on the different roads. The rebel cavalry in force umade a charge early in the morning, capturing one of our cavalry picket postsestimated 45 men killed, wounded, amid missing. Quite a little action grew out of it, in which tlmere was charging and counter-charg- ing of cavalry, when finally the enemy were driven from the field in confusion Page 67 CHAP. LVl] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 67 Walcutts infantry, skirmishing, lending a hand. In the afternoon Walcutt had taken lip a position two miles in advance of his (ii vision toward Macon, having two pieces of artillery, and had thrown up rail barricades, when lie was attacked by quite a large body of infantry, accompanied by some artillery, probably a battery of four guns. The assault was made with great vigor, but was met in tIme usual manner an4 com- pletely repulse(l. The action continued for some three hours. Walcutt was assiste(l bya regiment of cavalry on either flank. General Woods was l)rcsent (ilirilig the action an(l General Osterhaus l)art of the time. Iregret to say that (lemieral Walcott, than whom there is not a l)raver or better officer, wos wounded, lint I hope not seriously. The conduct of the troops, both cavalry and inliintry, was highly coiiimemided by the ~eneral officers present. On my arrival at Gordon, I directed General Blair to send forward the First Alabama Cavalry and General G. A. Sniiths (livisiiili soiiie eight or ten miles toward the Oconee bridge, which he did, with imistructious to move for- ward to-day, and, if possible, to secure that bridge and I)lailk it over for infantry to cross. November 23, 1864, the Fourth Division, Fifteenth Corps, with bridge train, hav- ing roads that were almost impassable, only reached the vicinity of Clinton last nirht. This morning fifty-five six-mule te~ims have been sent to assist the pontoon train through. General Woods division is moving up this way abreast of General Corse; General Hazen moving toward Irwinton; General Blair moving along the railroad and destroying it. I propose, with your sanction, to move across the Oconee River at two pointsone six iiiiles below the railroad bridge (at Balls Ferry), the other t~vo miles and a half above railroad bridge (at Jacksons Ferry). I have ~ilready forwarded to you dispatches captured. Prisoners still estimate the strength of the enemy in our vicinity about 10,000. The attack on Walcutt was made I think retained at Macon. , , by niilitia, mingled with some old troops The number of prisoners of war in my hands: In the Seventeenth Corps, 35 enlisted men; in tile Fifteenth Corps, 80 enlisted nien; total, 115. I believe the cavalry have soiiie 50 or 60 more in addition. We have about 45 wounded (if our own men. The number of bales of cotton reporte(l officiahhy to have been burned is 2,130. A large cotton factory, known as Ocmulgee Mills, or Planters Factory, on the nmap, nindles ~~ ~ to ~ ~ and ci)ntainiiio 1 500 s~ and ~ ~ some gins, have also been destroyed. We hiave found the country full of provisions and forage, an(l have almost com- pletely Siiiil)iied ourselves, drawing but very little upon our rations. 1 lie above estimate is independent (if what has been done by the cavalry. I regret to say that quite a numnber of private (lwehhinus which the inhabitants have left, have been destroyed by fire, but withomut official sanction; also, many instances of time most inexcusable and wanton acts, such as the breaking opeim of trunks, takimig of silver l)late, & c. I have taken measures to prevent it, and I believe they will be effectual. The inhabitants are generally terrified, and believe us a thousand times worse than we are. Having soldiers in the command who have been bitten by blood- hommiuds, permission has been given to kill them. Permit me to commend to you Generals Blair and Osterhaus and time (ifficers and mnemi under them, also General Kilpatrick and his coniman(l, for their faithfulness, energy, and untiring exertions to make our march a complete success. While the pleasant weather lasted, the marches were easily made; but as soon as the rains canine omi, the roads became very heavy and the poorer mules broke down, limit we have found a number in the country that have more than replaced our losses. The meimibers of umy staff have given me material aid, and I hope to lie able to reward thieni substamitially at some time for faithful services. Very respectfully, 0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General. P. S.General Osterhaus reports the enemys kilhed On time field yesterday num- ber 300. 0. 0. 11., Maj. Gen. W. T. SiIERMAN. lhjor-Gcacral, At Irwins Cross-Roads a second reliort was made, embracing oper- ations up to that time, as follows: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF TilE TENNESSEE Irwins Cross-Roads, Ga., November ~7, 1864. GENERAL: In accordance with instructions from your headquarters, comitained in Special Field Orders dated November 23, umy coiimmammd immarched from Gordon in two columnsthe Fifteenth Corps, via Irwinton, to Balls Ferry, ~eveiitceuth Corps alon Page 68 [CHAP. LVI. 68 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND IiLA. the railroad, with instructions to cross at Jacksons Ferry, two miles and a half north of railroad budge. General Giles A. Smith, who had preceded his colinon with the First Alabama Cavalry, (irove quite a force of the enemy I roni two stockades and across the bridge. He found that Jacksons Ferry was an old abandoned route through the swami), com~)letely impracticable. I therefore directed that General Blair s corps move to Balls Ferry. The two heads of colnum arrived at Balls Ferry about the same time on the 25th instant. A detachment of the First Alabama had the day before reconnoitered the ferry. Finding a small bite of the enemy, made a raft, croSse(l time river, and drove the enemy back, but were snlmsequently themselves forced to recross the river, with sonic loss. On our arrival at the river, we found the enemy with barricades and quite an extended line of skirmishers. Generals Oster- hans and Blair confronted thmeumi with a line which extended beyond the enemys flanks both up an(l down the river. Time former placed artillery iii position an(l made a denmonstration on the front along tIme road, while the latter, General Blair, sent a detachument some two miles up the rivea umn(her time (hre(tiomi of Lieutenant-Colonel Kirby, of his staff. Captain Reese, chief engineer, assisted themmi with boats to cross time river. The current was too swift to get timemum over Imy rowing; they were finally swum! over after the fasimion ot a flying ferry. After working through time bayous and swanips till near umuoruming, imis men reachmed the road at a poimut that was iii rear of the enemys position, but the eimemy had retreate(l. Colonel Kirby came in sight of his rear guard and wagoums, but couih(t not overtake them. The Oconee at this lulace is abont as wide as the Ocimmuigee at 1~iammters Ferry, hut the curremut is very swift, and there are some two ummiles of swammipy groniud on the right bamik, mit time imume- diate approach to the ferry on the left baimk is very good. The bridges were laid so that ttme troops commmmimence(l crossing in two colminmims about 12 in. Novemimber 26. Gen- erals Corse and. Woods, Fifteemith Army Corps, reached thus liouult between nmmme and ten miles from the ferry last umight. Sevemiteentli Corps umassud near time forks of the roads that leads to Statiomi 14. lime rear of the liufteentli Corps is imow crossing. General Blair has sent a division that is (lestroyimmg time railroad frormi Oconee liridge to a point near Irwins Cross-Roads; General Osterimaus imas semut a force to destroy the rest to Station 13. I directed the wagomi huridges across Commimumissioners Creek and the three bridges across Samudy River to be (lestroye(h. Time emmemumy helped me themselves by destroying the one nearest the Oconee. lime conuitry this side of the river is thus far quite open amud samm(ly, hint there is plemity of forage thus far. Wheeler with his main force passed here the day before yesterday. My headquar- ters will reniain here to-day. Respectfully, & c., 0. 0. hOWARD, Major- (Jc,memal. Maj. (4en. W. T. SHERMAN. Iii accordance with instructions front the general-itt-chief, dated San- dersyille, November 27, 1864, 1 issued the following order: SPECIAL FIELD ORDERs, Iluquis. I)EPT. AND ARMY OF TimE TENNEssEE, No. 179. Irwins Cross-Roads, Novcoubem 27, 1864. * * * * * * * V. The army will move forward substantially ums foliows: First. Major-General Osterhaus will move his left cobmmun, of two divisions, by the Louisville road to the intersection of the ,Johmmusomm roa(h, ami(h theumee to Johnson this evening, being careful to clear that intersectiomm mit an early hour to-morrow morning. His right colummi will nmove by a settlemument road uhirectiy to Johnson, starting at 7 a. m. to-nuorrow. Second. Major-General Blair will move on the Louisville roadstartin~ his column at 7 a. m. to-morrow, or earlier, at his optiontill he reaches time nemirest parallel road to the railroad on the south side. south of Williamsons Swaumup Creek. He will follow this road till abreast of Station No. 10 (or Sebastopol), where it is probable he will cross the Ogeecimee. Major-General Sherumami proposes to acconupany this columunin person. Headqnmarters will be atJohmmsomm to-morrow night, the train moving with the leading division of right colummunm. Time imerds (if cattle (otimer than those belonging to divisions) will follow the right colunmn to Jolmiuson, a regimiment from the rear division of which will remalum at this point till everythimug is passed, amid will then follow on to Johnsomm, cuirefolly gnardinmg all roads leadiuug south. By order of Maj. Gen. 0. 0. Howard: S. L. TAGGART, Captain and Assistant A djutant- General Page 69 ~HAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 69 The above order was literally conformed to, excepting that a portion of General Corses division bore to the right and enterc(l Wrightsville, the capital of Johnson County. Some considerable difficulty arose from the numerous roads throngli the pine woods, and from the fhct that neither citizens nor negroes knew of such a I)Iace as Johnsons Cross- Roads. At night of the 2Stl~ the conmnmand encalllpe(lthe center column near Riddleville, the left abreast on the Sandersville and Savannah roads, and the right. (consisting of one brigade and a battery of artillery) at Wrightsville. The next day (29th) the two lower columns nearly formed a junction, the advance, under General Woods, encaniping near Suimnerville, and the rest along the lower Savannah road and near Sunderlands Mills, some seven miles to the rear of General Woods; time Seventeenth Corps on the upper Savannah road, abreast of Station No. 10 of the Georgia Central Railroad. The character of the country, open pine woods, wire grass, quite a nuniber of swamps along the Ohoopee River and its tributaries, very few clearings or plantations. Quite a number of mules an(l horses were captured in the swamps, the citizens having run them oft; iii the hope of escaping onr army and Wheelers cavalry. November 30, Generals Woods and Corses divisions pushed on through Sumnnierville imorthward, until they reached the upper Savannah road, and encamped near Deep Creek. General Blair moved forward to Station No. 9~, effecting a crossing of the Ogeechee. At that point he rebuilt the wagon bridge, partially destroyed, and also laid a pontoon bridge across the river. December 1, the three columns moved as follows: The lower on the Statesborough road, the middle upon tIme Savannah road, and the left along the Georgia Central Railroad, destroying it en route. The two right columns encamped ol)posite Station No. 8, General Woods secur- ing and repairing the wagon bridge across tlme Ogeechee at that point. A small force crossed over and made a break in time railroad and destroyed the depot. The Seventeenth Corps succeeded imi reaching Sta- tion No. 9. Decemuber 2, the columns preserved time same order of nmarch. General Blair reached Millen, havimmg completely destroyed the railroad up to that point, imicludiug the large depot, ammd consider- able lumber, railroad ties, & c. Th(~ middle colummi encamped near Cliftons Ferry, havimig tlmrown a bridge over the Ogeecimee at that point, and semit a brigade of General Corses division to assist the Seventeenth Corps in break-Pig up the railroad. In addition to the above, Sculls Creek, a wide stream too deep to be forded, was carefully bridged imi two places. Our scouting parties hurried on to Scarborough, a little below, ammd seized a mail, which gave us Savannah papers of that day. Deceniber 3, the Fifteenth Corps remained in positiomi, excepting that two brigades of General Corses division crossed the river ammd aided the Seventeemith Corps in destroying time railroad from Milieu to Scarborough. The Seventeenth Corps caine imp abreast, encamping near Statiomi No. 7. December 4, the central column marched to Wilsons Creek; the left reached Station No. 5~, having comitinued time destructiomi of the railroad up to that poimit; the right proceeded as flir as Statesborough, Jiazemis division leading encoumi- tered a small body of the enemys cavalry, said to be 400 strong, amid had a successful skirmish with them. The road being boggy, lie was obliged to corduroy several long stretches during time day. Decemnber ~,the two columns of tIme Fifteemith Corps moved alomig their respec- tive roads, to a position nearly opposite Station No. 3. 1 was with the central columumi, and hearimig that some resistammee was offered to Ge Page 70 70 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. eral Blair near Ogeechee Church, I caused a feint of crossing the Ogeechee to be made at Flat Ford. Some men were throwii over in boats, but no bridge was laid. General Sherman detained General Blair near Station No. ~k for the Left Wing to come up. December 6, reconnaissances were made toward Wrights Bridge and the bridge at Eden Station (Jenks Bridge) with a view to saving them, if possible. Colonel Williamsons brigade, of General Woods division, reached the former in time to save much of the timber, but all the planking an(l several of the trestles were already burned, lie, however, constructe(1 a foot bridge and crossed over a small force, which he pushed forward toward the railroad. A small detachment went as far as the Twenty- Mile Station, and returned skirmishing all the way. This brigade skirmished considerably with the enemy near night. Colonel Olivers brigade, of ilazens division, made the reconnaissance to Jenks Bridge, but fonnd the bridge destroyed. I sent an officer (Lieutenant Harvey) with a select party to strike the Gulf railroad, but he found the bridge across the Cannouchee burned, and the approaches were guarded by rebels, so that he was comupelled to return without doing the work. Another party also sent to try for a point higher up the Cannouchee for the same purpose was not yet Imeard from. December 7, my command moved as follows: The First l)ivision (General Woods) remained at Wrights Bridge, except one brigade of infan- try that crossed the foot bridge and marched down the east bank of the Ogeechee toward Eden Station. On the arrival of the pontoon at Jenks Bridge, the chief engineer (Capt. C. B. Reese), finding the enemy on the other bank, threw over a regiment of Colonel Olivers brigade and cleared the way. The bridge was imlrie(liately laid. Gen- eral Corses division had arrived by this time. One brigade (General Rice commnanding) crossed over, met time enemys skirmishers some 500 yards beyond, drove theum in, and routed a battalion of rebels belmind rail piles in a very handsome manner, captnring 17 prisoners amid kill- ing and wounding several more. He lost 2 killed and 2 or 3 wounded. This brigade then formed a junctioii with General Woods briga(le from Wrights Bridge, at Eden Station. General Hazens division moved on to Black Creek, sending forward Colonel Olivers brigade to the Cannouchee. The rest of the corps was encamped near Jenks Bridge. The Seventeenth Corps encamped in the vicinity of Station No. 3, ceasing to destroy the railroad after leaving Ogeechee Church. l)eceiu- ber 8, by the map there appeared to be a road between time Big and Little Ogeechice Rivers. As the enemy was repom-ted in some force near the Twelve-Mile Post, having a line of works in imis front, I resolved to turn his position by sending two divisions of the Fifteemith Corps down the west bank of the Ogeechee, which were to force a crossing of the Cannonchee and send forward sufficient force to break the Gulf railroad and secure, if possible, Kings Bridge, over the Ogeechee, about a mile above the railroad; also, to reconnoiter with omie (livisiomi between the Ogeechee Rivers. The movement omi the right bank led; General Osterhaus, in persoim, con(lucted it with his First and Second l)ivisions. I accompanied Gemmeral Corse, who fonmmd a good ridge road on the left bank of the Big Ogeechee. We camne upon some carefully constructed works some three miles an(l a lmalf from Station No. 2, but they were abandoned. The road was obstructed with trees at several points, but the obstructions were so quickly removed by the pioiieers that time col- umn did not halt. On reaching the Savannah Canal we found time canal bridge burned. A new one was made imi less than Imalf an hour. The Ogeechee bridge near time canals mouth, called l)illons, was almnos Page 71 CHAP. LYJ.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 71 completely destroyed; but Dillons Ferry, a mile and a half above, I found practicable for a pontoon bridge. General Corse sent forward a reconnaissance, which found the enemy in force at the junction of this road with Kings I~ridge and Savannah road. General Osterhaus effected a crossing of the Cannouclice with a couple of brigades, as directed. The Seventeenth Corps meanwhile moved up abreast of Station No. 2, having much corduroyiiig to do and many obstructions to clear away. After reaching the canal, I returned to the Station No. 2 and comumnnica.ted with General Sherman in person. He was glad of the results of the reconnaissance, but directed me to allow General Blair to continue on the Louisville road. The miext day (December 9) the Seventeenth Corps came upon the enemy in rifle-pits three miles and a half from Station No. 2. General Blair drove the rebels from them, but soon came upon an intrenched line with guns in position. At this place the road led through a dense swamp covere(l with wood amid undergrowth peculiar to this region. The swamp was a})parently impassable, yet General Blair moved three lines of battle, preceded by a skirmish line, along on the right and left of the road for some two or three miles, occasionally in water knee- deep. He drove the enemy from every position where he made a stand, and encamped for the muight near Station No. 1. The Fifteenth Corps marched as follows: The detached brigades succeeded in reaching the Savannah and Gulf Railroad at different points and destroying it. The Third Division (General John F. Smith) closed up on General Corse at the canal. As soon as he was within supporting (listance General Corse moved forward toward Savannah. He enconntered about 600 rebel infantry with two pieces of artillery near the cross-roads. His ad- vanced brigade (~uickly (lislodged them, captiuring one piece of artillery and several prisoners. He followed them up across the Little Ogeechee, and, by niy direction, took Up a strong position abcnt twelve miles from Savannah, and sent a. detachunent which broke the Gulf railroad. His advance crossed the Little ()geechee and halted about eight miles from tIme city. Kings Bridge had been burned by the rebels. All the enemys force was withdrawn from Osterhaus front in the morning, except the independent garrisomi at Fort McAllister, si timated on the rioht bank amid near time mouth of tIme Ogeechee. During the day that section of tlme pontoon bridge which Imad been with General Blairs col- nmmm was sent to Dillons Ferry, near Fort Argyle, and laid across the Ogeechee, thus substantially uniting mimy two right columns. 1)ecember 10, the entire comnmarmd closed in on the emuernys works which covered SavannahGeneral Osterhaus with the right column, consisting of General Corses (livision, followed by Gemieral Hazen, on the Kings Bridge road; the central column, consisting of Gen- eral .Johimm B. Smiths division, followed by General Woods; and tIme left, General Blairs corps, Major-General Mowers divisiout in advance. These several columnus struck the enemnys lines simnultaneously with the Left Wing of the army. The nature of the country was such as to reiider the approaches to that front extremely difficult. By means of time canal and time Little Ogeechmee River he was able to flood the coun- try; besides, the great portion of the front was a marsh, with a deep streamn wimm(hing through it, under the cover of a number of batteries of the enemy. Pursuant to Special Field Orders, No. 130, from your headquarters, the Army of the Tennessee siumply gained ground to the right. With regar(l to opening comnmummication with the fleet, the engi- mincer departmemmt, under direetion of Capt. C. B. Reese, chief engineer, was immstructed to rebuild Kim~gs Bridge, which was effi~cted by th Page 72 72 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. morning of the 13th. The work was a remarkable one (being com- pleted in about two days time), considering there was little left of the old bridge except the posts. The bridge measured 1,000 feet in length. The general-in-chief in the above order bad directed General Kiluatrick to aid me in opening communication with the fleet. I there- Thre sent him across the pontoon bridges near Fort Argyle to recon- noiter Fort McAllister and the inlets in that vicinity, and, if practica- ble, to take the fort. General Sherman himself subsequently niodified these directions, ordering Kilpatrick not to assault the works. General Hazemi, of the Fifteenth Corps, was directed to hold his division in read- iness to cross Kings Bridge the moment it was completed amid take Fort McAllistQr. General Kilpatrick made his reconnaissamice on the 12th, drove in the outposts at McAllister, and reported the fort defended by a garrison of some 200 men, with several heavy guns bearing ou the land approaches. The morning of the 13th I acconmpanie(l General Sherman to Doctor Cheves rice mill, where we had McAllister frill in view. At the rice mill a section of De Gress battery was flrimmg occasional shots at the fort opposite, three miles and a half distant, as a diversion, having for its principal object, however, to attract the attention of the fleet. I)miring the day we watched the fort and the bay, endeavoring to catch glimpses of the division mnoving upon the work amid of vessels belong- ing to the fleet. About midday the rebel artillery at McAllister opened inland, firing occasionally from three or four different guns, ammd by our glasses we could observe Hazens skirmishers firimig on the fort. About the same time a movable smoke, like that fromn a steamer, attracted our attention near the month of the Ogeechee. Sigmial corn- munnication was established with Geiieral Hazen, who gave us notice that he had imivested the fort, aimd also that he observed the steamner. General Sherman signaled him from the top of the old rice mill that it was important to carry the fort by assault to-day. The steamner had now approached near enough to draw the fire of the fort when her signal flag was descried. Captain MeClintock, aided by Lieutenant Sampson, signal officers, speedily comumnunicated with the vessel, which proved to be a tug sent by General Foster an(l Admiral Dahmigren for the purpose of comnmnunicating with us. Just as the signal officer of the vessel inquired if the McAllister was ours, we mioticed a brisker fire at the fort, and our flags amid muen passing the abatis, through the ditch and over tl~e parapet, and thiemi we saw the men fire upward in the air, and could distinctly hear their cheer of triumnph as they took possession of the fort. It was a gallant assault. General Hazemi lost, in killed and wounded, about 90 mcmi; of the garrison, between 40 and 50 killed and wounded, amid the rest captured. There were 22 guns of various descriptions, and a large quantity of ammuumiition, captured imi the fort. That night I accompanied General Sherman in a small boat on a visit to Gemmeral Hazen, to the fort, and thence down the river to the steamer. Here we learimed that Captain Duncan and the two sconts that I had sent down the Ogeechee, on arriving at the Savammnah canal, had succeeded in passimig all obstructions and reached the fleet, amid communicated with Admiral Dablgren. Until miow I had beemi uncertain as to the fate of the party. After the general had writtemi several dispatches, we returmied to General Hazens quarters, feelimig that our expeditiomi had been completely successful, our supplies sure, and the possessiomi of Savannah not fhr distamit. It havimig been inti- mated that our future plans would be modified by specific instructions from the Commander-in-Chief, General Sherman and his officers becam Page 73 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 73 anxious to crown our success by the capture of Savannah. in order to accomplish this every exertioii was made. ileavy guns were brought from Hilton Head and McAllister and placed in position, the hues were worked up closer to the enemy, along the dikes, good batteries constructed for small guns, and every part of the front of Generals Osterhaus and Blair thoroughly reconnoitered; light bridges were constructed and fascines made, so as to span the streams and fill up the ditches; in brief, every possible preparation was iiuade to assault the enemys works. The same was the case along General Slocums front. Two, at least, of my division commanders felt perfectly confident of suc- cess in case the assault should be made. While these preparations were going on, the general-in-chiet; having demanded the surrender of Savannah on the 18th instant, and having been refused, had gone to the fleet in order to secure co-operation front the admiral and General Fos- ter in the contemplated attack. He left directions to get ready, but not to strike till his return. The morning of the 21st, about sunrise, Brigadier-General Leggett reported that the enemy had evacuated his front. Soon the same re- jort caine froni General Slocum and front other officers. General Sb- cuni moved at oiice and took possession of Savannah, the enemy hav- ing withdrawn to the South Carolina shore. lie had abandoned heavy guns in all the works on my front, in town, and at the different forts on the coast. Until now our depot had been at Kings -Bridge, where the army had built a good wharf and corduroyed the main road thereto from our front for the most of the way. Besides, the railroad between the Ogeechee and the Altamahia was completely destroyedBrigadier- General Hazen having the eastern and Major- General Mower the west- ern half. This work was completely done, as directed in Special Field Orders, No. 133, from your headquarters. I have only attempted to touch upon the work really accomplished by the Right Wing of the army, and have purposely abstained from dis- cussing the conteniplated objects of the campaign. The fbrmer is best told in the accompanying statistical record, and the latter are already evinced iii the growing confidence of our army iii a speedy and com- plete success. I wish to acknowledge my obligations to Major-General Osterhaus, commanding Fifteeiith Corps, for his great activity and energy displayed during the entire campaign. To Major-General Blair, commanding Seventeenth Corps, I feel spe- cially imidebted for his hearty co-operation at all times, and for his suc- cessfihi accoinphishmnemit of the work allotted to his command. I here name again the division commanders: Maj. Geut. J. A. Mower, Brig. Gen. C. H. Woods, Brig. Gen. John E. Smith, Brig. Gen. M. D. Leggett, Brig. Gen. XV. B. Hazen, Brig. Gen. J. iVI. Corse, Brig. Gen. Giles A. Smith. I cannot express too high commendation of these offi- cems, who have worked vigorously, early and late, without flagging, to keep their commands in order, to accoIul)lish the marches, to bridge creeks and rivers, to fight battles, destroy railroads; in short, who were ready, without question or hesitation, to set on foot and carry through the varied labors given into their charge. I wish further to tender to brigade commanders and to other officers and soldiers of this arniy somuethiing of the deep sense of obligation I feel toward them, and commend them to the commander-in-chief, and through him to the country, for cheerfulness, for constancy, Pu ability, and for distinguished gallantry Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. ~[CHAP. LVI. Much praise is due Lieut. Col. William Tweeddale for the aid he afforded the chief engineer in building wagon and foot bridges across the rivers that we met. I tender my thanks to Admiral IDahigreit and Major-General Foster for their courtesy and the assistance they rendered me in the operations near Savannah. I wish to bring before the commander-in-chief the names of my staff, who so materially gave me assistance during the campaign: Lieut. Col. William E. Strong, assistant inspector-general and chief of staff, ever aff~rded me the most cheerful and ready assistance. He always accolnpanie(l one or the other of the columns en route, and used every exertion to have my orders carried out in letter and spirit. Capt. S. L. Taggart, assistant adjutant-general, aided by Capt. W. Bedford, were never too weary to issue clear and distinct orders after the days march, and otherwise constantly afforded me aid in bearing dispatches. Capt. C. B. Reese, chief engineer, with the assistance of Lieutenant Stickney, have always received my warm comnitiendations for their untiring activity, both in engineering and topographical duty. He col- lated information with regard to diffeiemmt roads, furnished me good maps when umeeded, and superinten(le(l the laying of pomitoons, and tIme rebuilding of bridges over rivers and creeks in our route. Maj. T. W. Osborn, chief of artillery, aided by Maj. M.V. Z.Woodhull, assistant adj utami t- general, and Lieut. XV. N. Taylor, ai(le-(le-camnp, were constant in their exertions to mnobihize the artillery, and keel) the ani- mnals and material in perfect order. Major Osborn always ably assisted me in using the artillery omi the field, anti I always found himn amud his officers able and hearty co-operators, frequently giving mne material aid not connected with that special departmemmt. Whenever an opportunity has afforded, our batteries have been located, imitrenchied, anti hlaudle(i in the most skihhful maummer. Quite brisk artillery duels traiispiretl after our investment of Savannah,where my attention was more particularly called to the artillem-y of the command, and whemi I have had occasion to admire the skill and bravery of its officers and meim. Maj. E. Whittlesey, judge-advocate of the departmemmt, has afforded me substantial aid by carefully revising all the courts-martial amid records of military commissions, besides doing ably other imuportant duties connected with different departments of the service. Capt. D. H. Bud, chief of ordnance, receives mny commuemidations for his carefulness in regulating the ordnance supplies in such manner as to occasiomi me no trouble or anxiety. Capt. E. P. Pearson, jr., comnmnissary of musters, assiste(l me heartily in various ways dnring the campaign, and always has performed the duties of his department with fidelity amid the clearest apprehension of its requirements. My chief quartermaster, Col. J. T. Commkhimm, has perforuned cheer- fully all the duties (levolving upon liimn, omitting imo exertioum to procure anmmnals and forage as needed. My chief commuissary, Lieut. Col. David I{emick, has anticipated the wants of the command and regulated the supply in such manner that no real want huts beemi felt by any soldier of this army during ~ur lemmgthiy campaign. I commend him for cheerfulness, fidelity, and ability, in discharging the duties of his departmemmt. Capt. D. W. Whittle, assistant provost-marshal-general, receives my hearty approbation for his activity in discharging the public duties o Page 75 O~AP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 75 his department, for his careful record and disposition of prisoners, and for his unremitting attention to the comfort and interest of myself and staff; while acting in his capacity of commandant of headquarters. No department of this army has been better conducted on this cam- paign than the medical. To Asst. Snrg. D. L. Huntington, acting med- ical director, 15 (Inc great 1)raise for his diligence and eniirient success. To hitim and to Doctor Duncan, the staff surgeons, the officers and sol- diers at headquarters of the army are indebted for all the medical aid they required. Maj. C. H. Howard, senior aide-dc-camp, is commended for his dili- gence, in causing my or(lcrs to be executed, in bearing dispatches by l)erilons and distant routes, and for affording me sympathy and moral snpl)ort of one who identifies himself completely with the interests of the service. Capt. W. M. Beebe, jr., additional aide-dc-camp, receives my thanks for his generous assistance, being over anxious to undergo any risk, or perform a gallant action. Capt. F. NV. Gilbretli, aide-de-cainp, is always at the post of duty, and has spared no pains to carry may orders promptly, and see theni executed. Lient. E. Blake, staff quartermaster and commissary of subsistence, has shown himself remarkably efficient, and has often receive(I my special thanks. Capt. E. H. Kirlin, chief of scouts, has carefully reconnoitered the country through Capt. William Duncan and the other scouts, and kept me well advised of the movements of the enemy. Lient. J. A. Sladen has cheerfully aided mae, writimig at my dictation, bearing dispatches, and keeping in iporta ut records. My recommendations for the promotion of general and staff officers have already beeti forwarded and will be found separate in duplicate accompanying this report. The general-fri-chief has been enabled. under a Providential care, not to be mistaken to conduct our noble army thus far to results that one year ago seemed scarcely possible of attainment. IJe has secured our complete comifidence, amid, therefore, it may not be improper for me to express tIme faith that it is our mission, under his direction, to give the iumishimig blow to this hated rcl)ellion.* Please find accompanying this a statistical record for the campaigns. Respectfully, -0. 0. HOWARD, Major- General, Commanding. Capt. L. M. I)AYTON, Aide-de- Camp. [Inclosure.] Statistical report of property captured and destroyed, negroes freed, and prisoners cap- hired, by the Army of the Tcnnessee during the recent campaigns in Northern and Cen- tral Georgia., from October 4 to I)ece,n bee 31, 1864. Negroes set free (estimated number) 3, 000 Prisoners captured by Fifteenth Army Corps: Commissioned officers 32 Enlisted men 515 _________________________________ 547 For map accompanying this report, see I~late LXIX, Map 5 of the Atlas Page 76 76 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Prisoners captured by Seventeenth Army Corps: Commissioned officers 2 Enlisted men 117 119 Total prisoners cal)ture(l 666 Escaped Federal ps-i soners: Commissioned officers 6 Enlisted men 43 49 Bales of cotton bum-ned a 3, 523 Subsistence captmmre(l (viz, breadstufr, beef slur-jr -1~ Government cost of ration in Louisville $283, 202 Command started from Atlanta with head of cattle 1, 000 Took up as captlmre(1 (-attic 10. 500 ___ 11,500 Consumed on the trip 9, 000 Balance on ban(l l)ecember 18, 1861 2, 500 Horses captnre.4: By Fifteenth Army Corps 369 By Seventeenth Arnmy Corps 562 931 Mules captured: By Fifteenth Army Corps 786 By Seventeenth Army Corps 1, 061 1, 850 Corn: By Fifteenth Army Corps pounds. - 2, 500, 000 By Seventeenth Army Corps do - --- 2. 000, 000 4, 500, 000 Fodder: By Fifteenth Army Corps l)ol11l(ls - - 2,500,000 By Seventeenth Army Corps (10---- 2, 000, 000 4, 500, 000 iAiles of railroad destroyed 191 a Gemnigee Mills (1,500 spindles) i*iid large amOlilit ot cotton (10th burned; value not known. No. 8. Report of Capt. James ilL MeClintock, U. S. Army, Acting Chief Signal Officer. SIGNAL CORPS, IT. S. ARMY, DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Sarannah, Ga., December 24, 1864. COLONEL: I hate the honor to submit the following report of the ol)el-atiolls of the detach meilt under my conimand during time campaign commencing November 15 and ending in the occupation of Savannah, Ga., December 21, 1864: On the 15th the detachment moved with the army from Atlanta in the following order, viz: With departrient headquarters, Lieutenant Sampson. acting adjutant; Lieutenant Ware, acting assistant quarter- master, signal detachment, and myself. With Fifteenth Corps, Lieu- tenants Sherfy, Weirick Shellabaro-er and Adams - and with Seven- b teenth Corps, Lieutemiants Duiilap, Worley, Allen, and Kelly. During the time from the departure from Atlanta till the investment of Savannah no line of communication by signals was established or regular signal duty performed, owing principally to the unfavorabl Page 77 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 77 country through which we passed, it being densely wooded and quite level. Yet the detachment rendered valuable service upon the march by scouting, carrying inthrination regardiiig roads, rivers, , & c. In one instance a detachment, of whicli Lieutenant Sampson and ten men formed the greater part, was sent out by the general commanding to destroy a bridge on the Gulf railroad, but after proceeding some thirty miles was compelled to abandon the project, having met the enemy in greatly superior .nuiubers. A rocket code was also estab- lished by Captain Bachtell, chief signal officer military division, for the purpose of transmitting information from the different corps to the general commanding the grand army, and used when occasion re- quired. On the 10th of December, under orders from the general commanding, I accoml)almied a party to reconnoiter the country between the Ogeechee Rivers, with a view of opening comnuinication with the fleet, which was supposed to be in the vicinity of Ossabaw Sound, but failed to see amiy- timing of our vessels. On the 11th Lieutenant Sampson and myself estab- hisimed a station of observation at a rice mill on the Great Ogeechee two miles and a half north of Fort McAllister. From this point we obtained a good view of the rebel works on the Little Ogeechee, also part of the sound; and to the 13th a strict watch was kept during the (lay, while rockets were sent up at certain intervals through the mulo-lit to attract, if possible, the attention of amiy vessel that might be in the sound imear the mouth of tIme river. The sub-derachmeuits, in charge of Licutemi ants Shierfy and Dunlap, also put forth their efforts in a similar manner, but all was apparently of imo avail. On the 13th Lieutenant Sherfy and party accompauie(l the Second Division, Fifteemith Army Corps, Brig- adiem--General Ilazemi comumandiug, which moved across the river and attacked Fort McAllister. Upon arriving near the fort he opened corn- munmuication with the mill station, and durimug the emmga gemneuut several important mnessages were ti-aim smnitte(l. The i-ice mill being a good posi- tion from which to observe the operations at the fort, there were conse- quemitly a number of genci-al officers assembled at this point, aml(l among them were Generals Shermuan and howard. About 2 p. inn. a vessel was discovered in the soumid, which finally moved np the river to within calling distance. We then opened with her, and mmmessages were then exchanged between General Shermiman and General Foster amid Admiral Dahlgren. After the fall of the fort Lientenamit Sherfy moved his station to it, amid again established commummicatiomi with us. This line, by direction of the general commnammding, was to be kept opemi umitil fumrther orders. While iii comnniunicatiou with Lieutenant Sherfy amid time vessel we received great assistance from Lientemmants Ware and Kelly, who had arrived with the genera.l just befoi-e the commencement of the fight at tIme fort. On the 14th Lieutenant Sampson and myself returned to headquar- ters, leavimug Lientenamits Dunlap and Kelly to work the station. On the 17th I received orders from Captain Baclutell to extend the line to General Sheimnans headquarters, due noithi from the fort. Lieutenant Shmerfy was placed in charge, and opened it as soomi as practicable. Length of line when completed twelve miles, with three intermnediate repeating stations. On the 19th Lieutenant Dumilap recominoitered time coumitry betweeii the fort and Kings Bridge, fifteen miles up the river. At that place supl)hies for the armny were to be landed, and communica- tion betw-een the poimuts was necessary for time benefit of the comnmnis- sary and quartermnaster. On the 20th, having reported fhvorabl Page 78 78 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. rcH~. LVI. regarding the proposed line, he was instructed to open it, but the occu- pation of the city on the 21st by the Federal forces rendered this line useless. Lieutenant Sherfy, however, was retained, and many iinpor- tant messages transmitted until the evening of the 22d, when, by order of the general commanding, it was broken np and the officers with- dew to their respective detachments. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES M. MoCLINTOCK, Captain and Acting Chief Signal Officer. Lient. Col. W. J. L. NIcODEMuS, Commanding Signal Corps, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. No. 9. Report of Lieut. Col. David Remiek, Chief Commissary of Subsistence. JIIIQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Near Savanna/i, Ga., December 18, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of subsist- ence for the Army of the Tennessee: We took from Atlanta as follows: Hard bread, 15 days; flesh beef; 10 days; sugar, 15 days; coffee, 25 days; salt, 60 days. It was thirty-four days from the time we left Atlanta until we received stores, which would give the following amount of subsistence takeii from the country for 35,000 men: Number of Stores. days Quantity. iRate per Total rations. pound. amount. Pounds. Cents. Bread stuff 19 665, 000 7 $46, 550 00 Fresh beef 30 1,312.500 15 196.875 00 Sugar 18 80, 250 27 24, 097 50 Coffee 8 22,400 70 15,680 00 Total cost (Government price) $283, 202 50 Our command started with head of cattle 1, 000 Took up as captured cattle 10. 500 11,500 Consumed on the trip 9, 000 Balnnce on hand 2,500 I would respectfully call your attention to the very imperfect cooper- ing of packages containing stores. Wheii they are to be transported over long and rough roads by wagons, the boxes of hard bread should be bound with iron hoops or hickory withes, and sugar should be put in substantial barrels. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. 1WMICK, Lient. Col. and Cki~f Corn. of Sub. Dept. and Army of the Tenn, Maj. Gen, 0, 0, HOWARD Page 79 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 79 No. 10. Report of Asst. Sury. Darid L. Huntington, U. S. Army, Acting Medical Director. MEDICAL I)1RECTORS OFFICE, lln~ns. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Saictnnah, Ga., December 25, iSGI. GENERAL: I have the lioiior to submit a brief report of the oper- ations of the Medical l)epartment of the Army of the Tennessee, during the past ca1t1~)aigII, terminating ill the occupation of savannah. Previously to entering upon the canL~)aign such sick and wounded as woul(1 not immediately be fit for duty, or who were liable to em- barrass the movements of the army, were transferred to the general hospitals at Chattanooga, Nashville, and beyond. The miumber thus removed was 748, the greater portion of whom were recruits suffering from measles and diseases incident to newly enlisted men. The army has l)eeIl as well 5111)plied with medical stores as the authorized trans- 1)ortatiou would allow. No scarcity has been felt, the sick and wounded receiving everything necessary. All preparatiomis being complete, the army left East Point upon the 15th of November, and upon the 21st of December entered the city of Savannah. The average distance marched daily has been ten miles and two-thirds. The sanitary condition of the army has beeim peculiarly gratifyingthe abundance of nutritious food, and particularly of vegetables, the fine weather, good roads, and easy mam-ches, have all proved most salutary to the troops. From an examination of the weekly reports, 1 find thmat the average percentage of men unfit for duty from the 15th of November to the week ending December 17 has been scarcely 2 per cent. (in actual figures 1.9), and this including the wounded. Durimig the samne I)eriod, 32 cases of death froni disease have occurred, and 29 men have died fromn wounds, the greater l)art of this number dying within three days after the receipt of the injury. On the third days march one mild case of varioloid was rel)orted. Immediate directions were given to vaccinate all who had been exposed, also all as to whomu any doubt existed as to their having been vaccimiated. No further case has come to my knowledge. Two cases ot fractured thighs were left on the road, it being deemed im- practicable to transport thcmn. On the 22d of November, near Macon, the hues held by troops of the First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, were attacked by the rebels. After gallantly repelling the assault, our loss was found to be 13 killed and 40 wounded. The wounded were trammsported in amubulances 190 miles, and have done remarkably well, many of the slighter cases hav- ing already returned to duty. At the passages of the Oconee and Ogeechee Rivers skirmishing occurred, but with very trifling injury to us. On the 13th of December tIme troops of the Second Division, Fif- teenth Armimy Corps, assaulted and gallantly carried Fort McAllister, with a loss of 12 killed and 80 woumuded. The major part of time casual- ties occurred from the torpedoes which were placed in and about the works. The wounds thus inflicted were generally of a grave nature. On the 19th of December the hospital transport Cosmopohitami reported, and, in obedience to instructions from the chief medical officer of the military division, I transferred to the hospitals at Beaufort, S. C., 266 cases of sick and woummded Page 80 [CHAP. LVI. 80 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. The casualties in front of Savannah were comparatively few37 men wounded, 5 deaths froni wounds. Fortanately, the season of the year has prevented any considerable increase of sickness while we were detained in the low and swampy grounds cijyironing the city. On the 23d of December 1 transferred to hospital at Beaufort, S. C., under directions from Surg. John Moore, U. S. Army, the sick and wounded of General Hazens division (Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps), and at the same time the wounded Confederate prisoners of ~var, amounting in all to 150 cases. On taking J)ossession of Savannah, directions were given to continue the division hospital organization, the number of the sick hardly warranting, for the present, a greater expansion. Preparations have been made, or are in progress, l)y which the sick of the different divis- ions will be comfortably placed in buildings through the city. Abun- dant supplies, both medical and sanitary, are open to us at Hilton Head, and preparations are now going on for fully equipping the medical department with an ample supply of necessary articles. RECAPITULATION. Average percentage of men untit for duty during the campaign 1. 9 Number wounded on campaign 196 Deaths from disease on campaign 32 Deaths from wounds on campaign 29 Left. on road from necessity 2 Sick and wounded transferred to hospitals at Beaufort, S. C 386 Wounded Confederate soldiers transferred to hospital at Beanfort 30 At Hillsborough I came into possession of the imaines of certaiu soldiers belonging to General Stonemans command, who had been wounded and left at or near Hillsborough, and afterward died. A list of these men is appended. I am happy to state that 1 feel convinced that they were well and kindly treated. They have all been buried in or about Ilillsborongh. In conclusion, I mnst bear willing testimony to the zealous, faithful, and untiring care which our sick and wounded have received at the hands of the medical officers of this army. The length of march has made it a difficult, if not hazardous, matter to transport men badly wounded in ambulances; but the result has been most satisfactory, and the admirable condition of the wounded reflects much credit upon those whose industry and skill have so greatly promoted this result. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. L. HUNTINGTON, Asst. Sury., U. S. Army, Aety. Med. Director, Dept. of the Tenn. Maj. Gen. 0. 0. HOWARD, Commanding Department and Army of the Tennessee. List of men belonging to General Stonemans command who died of wounds at or near Hillsborough, Ga.: John Smaltz, private, Company D, Fifth Indiana Volunteer Cavalry; H. L. Ives, sergeant, Company C, Eighth Michigan Volunteer Cavalry; Andrew J. Catron, sergeant, Company L, Fit-st Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry; William Farmer, private,. Coumpany L, First Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry; Benjamin Sharp, private, Company A, First Kentucky Volunteet- Cavalry; Lieu- tenant Humphrey, First Kentucky Volummteer Cavalry Page 81 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 81 No. 11. Reports of AIaj. Gen. Peter J. Osterha as, U. S. Army, Commanding F~f teenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: * The orders issued regulating the march of the columns from Atlanta south assigned me again to the extreme right, with the privilege of using one or more parallel roads, if it did not iiiterfere with the columns on my left (Seventeenth Army Corps). I respectffihly ref~r the major- general commanding to the accompanying map,t marked B, for the routes taken by and the camps of the different divisions at the end of every days march. On November 15, 1864, in pursuance of orders received, the Fifteenth Army Corps left its encampmentsGenerals Woods, Smith, and Hazen, marching in one column from Atlanta, arrived, via Rough and Ready, iii the vicinity of Stockbridge; General Corse, who had oim the previous iii glit reached the Chattahoocliee River, was necessarily (lelayed at Atlanta, receiving and issuing qnartermasters stores, which were laid al)art for them, and therefore had to halt for the night iu the vicinity of Rough and Ready. The head of the former columns (First, Second, and Third Divisions) found near the aforesaid railroad station some rebel pickets, who. evidently surprised at our unexpected appearance, lied. Near Stockbridge the rebel general, Lewis, with about 1,000 mounted troops and one section of artillery, held a position, but he also yielded it after a very feeble show of resistance. This rebel general subsequently indulged merely in the destruction of bridges to oppose our advance, keeping his troops at a very discreet distance. The First, Second, and Third Divisions were encamped iii the vicimlity of Stock- bridge, with a view to prevent a collision with the Seventeenth Army Corps, whose march was also directed toward Stockbridge. MeDonough being the point to be reached on the 16th of November, I directed General Hazen (Second Division) to march on the main road via Stockbridge, while Generals Woods and Smith moved via Lees Mills, and General Corse was to take a direct road from his camp at Rough and Ready, by Lees Mills, to McDonough. At MeDonough the whole of the Fifteenth .Army Corps was for the lirst Pine assenibled, and the divisions in supporting distance of each other. The corps marched on November 17 in one column to Locust Grove, where, to facilitate the movement, two columns were formned, moving toward Planters Factory, on the Gemulgee RiverGenerals Woods and ilazen via Indian Springs, Generals Smith and Corse via Jackson. On the same day I succeeded in pushing the Tweuty.ninth Missouri Infamitry to that river, and secured both banks for the intended bridges. As soomi as the pontoon could be laid down at time Ocmulgee Factories, General Smnith crossed and took a defensive position on the east side of the Ocmulgee (November 18), the other divisions of the corps remain- ing in their respective camps until the Seventeenth Corps had crossed. At 7.30 a. m. November 19 the Seventeenth Corps yielded the bridge to us and we commenced crossing, General Ilazen leading. General * For portion of report here omitted, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 740. t Not found. 6 R RVOL XLI Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN M. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Smith had previously received orders to march on the direct road to illilisborough, Generals Hazeii and Woods were to follow Smith, while General Corse, who brought up the rear, had orders to march, via Mon- ticello, to Hilisborough. This general was abo directed to destroy, before leaving the west bank of the Ocmulgee, the cotton factory, & c., which had been used for military purposes by the rebel Government. Raimi, very bad roads, and the long trains of the whole Army of the Tennessee, including those of the cavalry, and the pontoon trains and some 4,000 head of beef-cattle, delayed General Corse considerably. His rear could not leave the river before next morning (November 20), and he could march only as far as Monticello, while Woods, Smith, and Hazen reached the vicinity of Clinton that day. General Kilpatricks cavalry had preceded us to that place and left on our arrival for Macon. Some rebel cavalry kept hovering around Clinton, and repeatedly at- tacked our pickets without making any impression. Early on the morning of November 21 1 pushed tIme Twenty-ninth Missouri (mounted) toward the Macon railroad, with orders to destroy the track, and thus I)revent the further nse of the road for military pur- poses. Colonel Gage struck and broke the road at 10 a. m. General Smiths division marched the same day from Clinton on the direct road toward Gordon, while Woods and Ilazen moved toward Irwinton. A large force of the enemy being reported at Griswoldville, near which place the onter column (Generals Woods and Jiazen) had to pass, it was considered prudent to move only the most necessary trains (ord- nance) with this exposed column, and give the bulk of the traimis, in charge of General Smith, the inner route. The divisions of Woods and Hazen camped for the night in supportiig distance of each other near the Macon railroad. The enemy showed, notwithstanding the presence of the large cavalry force of General Kilparrick, some temerity, and attacked the column of Woods several times. As it appeared Pu- possible for General Corses division, with the incumbrances clogging his movements, to reach Clinton in time on November 21 to secure that place against rebel assault, I ordered if brigade of Hazens division (Col. Theodore Jones) to remain there until the arrival of General Corse. Colonel Jones was constantly annoyed by rebel cavalry. When Gen- eral Corse came up on next day, lie considered the remaining of Colonel Jones most desirable, and this zealous officer therefore held his position until all and everything had safely gone by this point of danger, and then followed General Gorse on the direct road to Gordon. Your orders for the 22d of November were to make ~a demon stration against Griswoldville, while our trains were to be pushed on toward Gordon with all the dispatch the terrible condition of the rutted roads permitted. I consequently ordered one brigade (General Walcutts) of General Woods divisiomi to move early on the south side of the railroad in the direction of Griswoldvihle. When I joined General Walcntt to accompany the expedition, I found a brigade of General Kilpatricks in his front, and a portiomi of it, which had tried to drive back time rebel advammee line, had just come back without having succeeded. General Walcutt was ordered at once to relieve the cavalry, and the advamice was sounded. A strong line of skirmishers, supported by two regi- ments and some cavalry, which General Kilpatrick had kindly fur- nishmed, soomi struck time rebels, who were in line behind a creek, or rather swamp, in an open pine land, and caused them, with that pecu- liar spirit of our troops, to look for their horses and run. General Wal- cutt kept pushing forward, amid his men pursued in double-quick with cheers and laughter the ficeimig horsemen, waded the creek~ marche Page 83 C1I~. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 83 through the belt of timber beyond until they reached an open prairie- like field, which was in possession of large rebel cavalry forces. Gen- eral Walcutt halted here just long enough to correct his lines, caution his skirmishers and supports to be prepared for a cavalry dash, and theti they emerged into the open field and made for the rebels, who, throwing away the best chance that can be desired by an intrepid cav- alry, fled in confusion. General Walcntt followed rapi(lly, capturing many horses, equipments, & c. When beyond Griswoldville the rebels, who were commanded by General Wheeler in person, took different roads; and as I had some knowledge of Wheelers way of maneuvering which is not formidable in the dash of arms, hut sometimes successful by great activity and circumspectioiiJ ordered General Woods to have General Walcutts command rallied and take a defensive position near the open field mentioned above. The position selected was in the edge of the timber and along a slight rise in the ground, at the base of which a kind of marshy swamp formed a natural obstruction to the approach; the right and left of the position was pretty well secured by swamps, & c. Light breast-works, built of rails, were put up to cover our men, and a section of artillery of Captain Arndts (First Michigan) battery was ordered there. These preparations were considered suffi- cient to meet any of General Wheelers reconnaissances, which he might undertake after finding out that he was no longer pressed, but had to stand a more severe trial. In the afternoon the rebel com- mander brought forward four brigades of infantry and a battery of artillery, supported by a strong cavalry force, to dislodge General Walcutt from his position. For several hours their attempts were repeated with the greatest impetuosity. Their artillery threw a terrific fire into the frail works of Walcutt, while their columns of iiifantry marched in heroic style to withimi fifty yards of our line. It was all in vain! Walcutt amid his brave brigade proved that superior skill, cool- ness, and valor made up for the great disparity in mmunibers. When night came the enemy retired, leaving over 300 dead on time battle-field and a imamber of wounded, who were taken care of by otir medical corps; also a number of prisoners were taken. Our loss was compara- tively light. The brave General Walcutt was wounded by a piece of shell during the fight, and Colonel Catterson assumed the command of the brigade. During these operations at Griswold yule the division of General Hazen had passed behind General Woods and taken a defensive posi- tion in his support two miles south of Gordon. General Smith entered Gordon and General Corse passed by Clinton. A portion of General Woods command during the day was employed in destroying the rail- road track from Griswoldville to within three miles of Gordon, and General Smith, immediately after his arrival, put his men to work to meet General Woods parties. General Smith finished the work of destruction iii the next two days. General Hazen advanced on the 23d within seven miles of Irwinton, and Woods intrenched a line soath of Gordon commanding all the ap- proaches from the west and south. Both divisions marched the follow- ing day to Irwinton. At last, 011 November 24, General Corses division and the brigade of Second Division (Colonel Jones) arrived with all time trains at Gordon, relieving us of a great deal of anxiety. These officers deserve the highest credit for their faithful executiomi of orders under difficulties almost insurmountable. They brought a traimi of niany hundred wagons fifty miles and over roads whose condition beggars all description. General Corse encamped for the night in the positior Page 84 84 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. vacated by General Woods; Colonel Jones joined his division. The corps was to cross Oconee River, at Balls Ferry, con sequei~tly the four divisions marched early on November 25 from their respective camps toward that point. Hazen and Woods arrived at the ferry; Corset and Smith at Milton and Irwinton, respectively. Jn order to protect the right flank of our column during its crossing of the river against some rebel forces reported to be at Rig Sandy Creek, the Twenty-ninth Mis- souri (mounted) was stationed along that stream, with orders to destroy all bridges and guard all such points where crossing could be effected. They found some opposition at the Light Wood Knot bridge, but suc- ceeded in destroying it, notwithstanding. When I arrived at the Oco- nee I found there the First Alabama Cavalry, who reported the enemy in position on the east bank. A reconnaissance confirmed time report; but their number was apparently small, and, perceiving that we were preparing in earnest to force a crossing, they left during the night. Bridges were laid in the morning of November 26, and the corps crossed in the following order: Corse, Woods, Ilazen, and Smith. The latter general had orders to remain until time bridge was taken up and the trains all on the way. The two leading divisions marched the same afternoon to Irwins Cross-Roads, and from there three brigades were detailed on next morning to destroy the Savanmmah railroad to Sta- tion No. 13. The remaining brigades and trains of these divisions (Woods and Corses) marched the afternoon (November 27) on the Augusta dirt road to the intersection of the Savannah dirt road, with orders to proceed, on November 28, on the latter road, to a point near railroad station No. 11, and there meet time divisions of Generals Smith and Hazen. These divisions came to Irwins Cross-Roads on the morn- ing of November 27, and I intended to nmarch with them on next day, by plantation roads, to time point of meeting; consequently all the divis- ioims of the corps encamped the next imight (November 28) in supporting distammce and within seven miles of Station 11. On November 29 Woods and Corse followed a very dim road (called time Democrat road) to its intersectiomi with the Swainsborough amid old Savanmmah road. The divisions of Hazen amid Smith marched on the main Sandersville and Savannah road until they strnck, one mile south of Station No. 11, the Seventeenth Army Corps, who had the right of way. Time ground permitting, I ordered a parallel road to be cut for about two mniles to a fork which led into a road that rami parallel to that taken by Woods and Corse. The country here is almost a perfect wilderimesslong-leaved pines cover the poor sandy soil but sparely, and exclude all other vegetation except where aim occasiommal creek or marsh, lined with narrow skirts of shrub-like undergrowth, breaks this monotony; but what makes the soil almost worthless for agricultural purposes remmdered it favorable to our operations. An eimergetic corps of axmen to corduroy roads across the creeks and marshes opens in a short time enough space for any number of columns. 0mm November 30, when we marched toward the little town ot Suimmumerville, the Secomid, Third, amid Fourth l)ivisions moved part of the way abreast of each other. Generals Woods aimd Corse reached that day a poimit within three miles and a half of railroad station No. 9~. Gemmerals Hazen and Smith halted at Snmnmervihle. As the accompammying mnap* shows, there are two roads rnnnimmg substantially h)~Iallel to and south of the Ogeechec River and the Savannah railroad; they unite opposite Station No. 2. Both roads were represented practicable, an(l consequently the corps was * Not found Page 85 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 85 divided into two columnsHazeu and Smith were to march from Sum- merville, via Statesborough, to No. 2; the left column (Woods and Corse) on the inner route. I took care to regulate the marches daily, SO as to have the columns always in supporting distance, and used a portion of time Twemity-imintli Missouri (mounted) to keep up communi- cation and explore the intermediate ground between the columns. The two colummis crossed Sculls Creek on December 2, aimd were ordered to lie over on IDecemuber 3, to give the columns to our left time to come up wiizh us. The troops of these columns were partly employed in breaking the railroad, and in order to assist this work, detachmemits of General Woods troops had crossed the Ogeechee, at Greens Bridge, on December 1 (which we had to repair), and burnt the railroad in the vicinity of Station No. 8. Next day (December 2) a pontoon was ordered to be laid opposite Station No. 7, and large portions of the divisions of Generals Corse and Woods put to work destroying the railroad there, which they did most effectually for many miles. On the 4th and 5th of December the two columns continued their routes, bringing the left column opposite Guy- tomi (Station No. 3), while the right columun camped about four miles off on the headwaters of Black Creek, December 5. General Hazen, who led the right column, fell in on both days with a force of General Wheelers cavalry; after a lively skirmish at Statesborough, the rebels (lispersed and (lid not make their appearance any more. The next day the corps had, to lie over a gain; but very early in the morning I pushed the Twenty-ninth Missouri forward to secure the crossing of the Ogee- chee River, near Station No. 2 (at Wrights and Jenks Bridges). We found the bridges burnt. I ordered at once a foot bridge to be con- structed on the remains of Wrights Bridge, and directed General Woods to send one brigade to the bridge and hold it. The command- ing officer of the brigade (Colonel Wilhiamnson) threw a regiment across the Ogeechee, and constructed on the east side breast-works, and then J)ushed a detachment of fifty men, under Captain McSweeney (Ninth Iowa), to the railroad with orders to break it, and thus prevent the enemy from re-enforcing his troops, who opposed the advance of the columns omi the east side of time river. Captain McSweeney moved (lireetly for the railroad about two miles off aiid broke it iii plaimi view of a train coining dowim loaded with troops. lie then fell back pursued by the rebels, but he kept them in check. When in the evening the enemy attempted to drive Colonel Williamsons men from the breast-works thrown up in tIme afternoon, he was repulsed with some loss. Our ap- pearance omi the flank of the rebels drew their attention to the lower crossing, and they sent a detachment of infamitry to Jenks Bridge, three miles below Wrights. The next morning (December 7) the divisions of Generals Woods, Smimith, aimd Corse were concentrated near Jenks Bridge. General Hazen was ordered to send, by way of a diversion, the brigade of Colonel Oliver, which had been pushed on the day previous toward Jenks Bridge, to the Cannonchee and take possession of the bridge near Bryan Court-House; with the rest of his command General ilazen was to fol- low Colonel Olivers brigade as far as Black Creek. When Colonel Oliver withdrew in the morning from Jenks Bridge lie left the Ninetieth Illumoms (Colonel Stuart) there to watch the rebels omi the east side of the river. General Corse on his arrival at Jenks Bridge found Colomiel Stuart behimid a line of rifle-pits, hivehihy disputing the crossing. To re-enforce Colonel Stuart one section of Arndts battery was brought into position and opened. They succeeded iii keeping the rebels nude Page 86 86 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. [CHAP. LYL cover while some pontoons were launched, and, maimed by the Ninetieth Illinois (Colonel Stuart), crossed the river. As soon as a boat-load of men got a foothold on the other bank the rebels fell back to a line of works at the eastern extremity of a long dam or levee, which formed the connection across the swamp between the river and the high land. The dam is about half a mile long. Our pontoniers could lay the bridge without being molested any further. While this work was going on and the flood-bridges in the dam were repaired, General Corse crossed a portion of his command iii boats, and they worked their way throngh the swamp and the thick woods toward the rebel position. To thcilitate their dislodgment General Woods was ordered early in the morning to push Colonel Williamsons whole brigade across Wrights Bridge above and try to strike the enemys flank. When the pontoons were laid J ordered the advance. The Second Iowa Jnfantry, of General Rices brigade (Corses division), confronted the rebels. They moved np in very good style, pushing sharply on the enemys wings, and forced them very soon to make for their support, which was intrenched in double line on an elevation where the road from Jenks Bridge crosses at right angles the Wrights Bridge road. Colonel Will- iamsons brigade was advancing on the latter road. When I had cause to believe this column in supporting distance, I directed General Rice to attack the rebels in their breast-works. The Second Iowa rushed up to them over an opemi plain and carried the works, killing and wounding a number and capturing about thirty prisoners. Colonel Will- iamson arrived at the moment the works were taken, and he dispatched some companies to the railroad, while General Rice advanced on a parallel road to the station. The enemy fled. A portion of Corses division was stationed at the railroad station, while the remainder of the division and Colonel Williamsons brigade intrenched and occupied a line at the cross-roads mentioned above. In the evening (December 7) General Hazen reported that Colonel Oliver had arrived at the Cannouchee, but found the bridge partly burnt and strongly defended. The crossing of the river was deemed essen- tial in order to destroy the Gulf railroad, which was largely used by the rebel authorities at Savannah. Under orders from headquarters Department and Army of the Tennessee I moved next morning (December 8) toward Cannouchee River with General Hazens divisiomi and that of General Woods, except Williamsons brigade, which was to occupy Station No. 2 until the arrival of the Seventeenth Army Corps. After reconnoitering the Cannouchee River I brought, how- ever, only General Hazens division to the bridge near Bryan Court- Honse, halting Woods four miles north of it at the forks of the road to Fort Argyle. The enemys position on the south side of the Can. nouchee was naturally very strong. Wide, impassable swamps line both sides of that stream, and there are bnt vem-y few points where a crossing is practicable. There is none below Bryami Court-House, and parties sent twelve miles upstream could not learn of ammother above. From the Court-House a good road leads to the bridge, but an impene- trable live-oak swamp is on the other side of it. A levee and three bridges, of an aggregate length of 800 feet, lead through the swamp to the highland; the levee and bridges were swept by a section of artil- lery and by infantry covered by breast-works. I was, however, imiformed that there had been aim old ferry below the bridge, and thus I hoped to be able to effect a crossing there if the exact spot could be foumid. By minute imispection of the banks (luring the night time landing of the old ferry ~vas detected, and aim expedition sent in a boat across the rive Page 87 CHAP. LVJ.] TILE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 87 struck high grouiid and a rebel picket. Our men fired and created the greatest alarm in the rebel camp. They ol)elle(l with infantry and artillery most vigorously, and, to my astonishment, they left the position by 2 a. m. The next morning (December 9) showed that the contemplated cross- ing at the old ferry, which the rebels could not I)revent, would have exposed their danks, and, therefore, their sudden departure. Troops were crossed as fast as possible in boats, while the damaged bridge was being repaired. I ordered General 1-lazen to send two of his brigades to the railroad, which was in full work yet. One brigade marched toward Kings Bridge and Ways Station, the other to Fleming Station; both with orders to destroy the road as effectually as possible. (This work of destruction was afterward completed and extended for twenty miles by General flazen.) The remaining brigade was placed in reserve at the bridge. The ex~)editionary brigades returned during the night from their work at the railroad, having, with the assistance of the Twenty-ninth Missouri (mounted), (Iriven everything from the road and takeii some prisoners. On the morning of December 8 General Smith was left in charge of the trains corralled at Jenks Bridge (west side), and General Corse, who was on the east side of the Ogeechee River, moved his division down the streani toward Dillons Bridge, which he found burned, however, amid had to be replaced by pontoons. On the fol- lowing day (9th) the general pushed on and met some rebels at the Savannah Canal and drove them back to their maui line, which he assaulted and carried, taking I piece of rifled artillery and some 60 prisoners. General Corses report was laid before you, and I respect- fully refer to it for the particulars of this brilliant affiuir. General Corse followed the rebels across Little Ogeechee and to the north fork of it; but was recalled by General Howard behind the Ogeechee, where he threw up a line of defense. General Smith, with the trains of the Thu d and Fourth Divisions, moved to the canal, and, early omi the morning of December 10, from there up the towpath along the canal (south side) abreast of General Corse, who advanced again beyond the Little Ogeechee on the Savannah road. I left, on l)ecember 10, General Hazen, with orders to march by way of a foot bridge constructed at Dillons Ferry to the support of Corse, while General Woods, with the trains of the First all(l Secomid Divis- ions, moved across tIme Ogeechee River by the pontoon bridge near Dillons and closed on Smiths division (the trains were to be left at the (allah). General Corses advance, which I had joined, found no opposi- tion west 6f the north fork; but behind that stream, which is rather a wide swamp subject to the influence of the tides, the rebel fortifica- tions and camps were stretched out. The rebel troops gathered on and behind the parapets, and with their banners defiantly unfurled awaited the approach of our column. The open amid exposed ground, swamps, and stream in front of the rebel works forbade all sudden attacks, and tIme men of the advance were kept accordingly under cover, while skirmishers probed all along the lines as closely and carefully as possi- ble. I ordered Captaiii De Gress 20-pouimder I~arrott battery to be brought forward in a position from which it could throw an oblique fire iimto their main works, which covered tIme Savannah road,,without coining under fire of the rebel batteries. With wonted precision De Gress handed his shots and created great commotion in the garrison. The profiles of the works and the traverses were too heavy, however Page 88 88 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. to inflict any serious damage. A section of Battery II, First Missouri Artillery, ol)elled from an advanced position near the Savannah road, covered only by some trees. It caused the rebels to open at once ~vith six guns and great vehemence; so much so, that it was not considered prudent on our side to continue the tire. The troops of the four divis- ions were before night in the positioiis assigned to them and encamped jnst out of range of the enemys artillery. III pursuance of orders received during the night, the Fifteenth Army Corps was to occupy the ground on the right of the Savannah road, and accordingly in the morning of the 11th of December General Gorse shifted to the right and as near the Gulf railroad as the march would permit, Woods occupying ground between Gorses left and the Savannah road. General Ilazen camped d checal of the road about two miles in the rear of the flout divis- ions, amid General Smith moved to Station No. 1, on the Gulf railroad, pushing his pickets forward on that road and to the right to cover the approaches from the south. These movements were very difficult to execute owing to the rain which had converted the road through the marshy soil into a sea of mud and qua gmnire. To prevent serious delays hereafter I ordered the pioneers at once to construct a double corduroy track from our front to the rear. On the 12th of I)ecember I sent, on time generals order, a sectiomi of 20-pounder Parrotts and the Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry (General Woods division) to Gheves rice mill, to assist in some movement against Fort McAllister; and in the night the divisiomi of General Hazen, wit ii Battery H, First Missouri Artillery, and the remaining section of Dc Gress 20-pounder Parrotts, were ordered to march very early on the 13th, via Kings Bridge, to the aforesaid fort and take it. Fort McAllister was very strong and apparently well garrisoned. Gen- eral Hazen arrived before it at 2 oclock, and at 3.45 p. mu. he had com- pleted his arrangements for the assault. They proved to be in keepimig with that noble soldier. When the advance sounded the brave men rushed through a line of torpe(loes amid heavy abatis, jumped into the wide amid deep ditch, and climbed in one heroic alan, which secured them the fart after a few muinutes struggle, but not without a heavy loss, mostly occasioned by the explosion of the torpedoes. Twemity-three siege and field gaits and 215 men, the entire garrison, were the imme- diate prize of the capture; bitt the mnost important feature of this vic- tory was that it opened cotumnunication with the fleet and thus furnished to our armies the mmecessary supplies, an(l put beyond (loubt the final capture of Savannah, whose garrison and inhabitants were, according to all infbrmation, bitt scantily supplied. The Second I)ivision gar- risoned the cal)tilre(l P~rt. The artillery was ordered back to take a l)art in the l)reParatioli for the contemplated assault on the Ogeechee hues, as Geiieral Ilardee, the commander ot the rebel forces in Savan- nahi, had refused, on 1)ecember 17, to surremider. Generals Woods and Gorse since December 13 had steadily }i~mshed their line forward and were in close ~)roximuity to the rebel works. All l)oimits which offered a chance for crossing the swamnps and the river bet~veemm our amid the rebel works were looked up amud most carefully studied; in fact, every- thing was (blue to comnl)lete our know-ledge of time difficult ground before us. I caused a mmumnber of substantial batteries to be thrown up. In selecting the sites for these the pri mucipal attemitiomi was 1)aid to the rebel tort on the Savauinah road, where they had a number of heavy siege 1)ieces in position, an(1 which they undoubtedly considered the key of their whole hue. The rebels had also a numniber of batterie Page 89 CHAP. LVI.~ THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 89 farther to their left, and their fire annoyed Generals Smiths and Corses lines to some extent; however, the guns used iii these batteries were light field pieces, and it appeared that the enemy thought their left sufficiently secured by the natural obstructions; at least, its lines of infantry there were weak, and I did not wish to disturb this belief by an ostentatious display of activity. The ground on our side was cov- ered with timber, and thus l)ermitted us to prepare for any operations that might become desirable in perfect concealment. Omi the 19th of December 1 received your orders to prepare every- thing for an assault on December 21. The closest investigation of the ground before us showed that the stream could be crossed in two places (in addition of the Savannah road), where it is but very narrow and the approaches to it practicable. One of these points was in General Woods~, the other in General Corses front. Both places never had drawn the enemys attention, and parties of General Woods and Geii- eral Corse bad gone across in boats without being observed by the rebels. Trestles were built and l)olltoon-boats gotten ready; the rifle- pits were l)ushled within 150 to 200 yards of the rebel works. Major Stoibrand, chief of artillery, brought ten pieces of artillery on and to the left of the Savannah road, keeping the remaining eight pieces in reserve, and in a convenient place where they could be ordered to any point where the contemplated attack iniglmt demand them. On the morning of December 20 an impression was created that the rebels were witlmdrawimmg timeir pieces from the fort on the Savannah road. To prevent such an undertakimig I ordered Captain Zickerick (Twelfth Wisconsin) on tIme Savannah road battery and Captain Arndt on the Cemetery battery to open on time fort. Their practice was splendid. The enemy, who, after considerable work, succeeded in openiimg his heavy batteries, had to cease firimmg very soon under the terrific accu- racy of our gumm s. General Woods advanced line of infantry, which was rather less than 150 yards from the rebel main line, kept the enemys sharpshooters completely silemmt and behind their breast-works. This mornimmgs experience gratified the best hope of a successful as- sault. in the coming night, but orders fromn General Sherman postponed the attack. During the imight of the 20th General Woods pickets kept the enemy closely under their control, always fearing they would get away. i heir fears were correct. Leaving their guims and ammnunitiomm in the fort, the rebels sneaked away in the darkmmcss of the imight. and the Sixth Iowa Infantry entered, before daylight, their fortifications. Savannah was ours. It proved the richest capture of the war. In my immediate front on the Little Ogeechee and in time portion of tIme lines around Savannah, which was assigned to the Fifteenth Army Corps on the mornimmg of 21st of I)ecemnber, forty-seven gnus, with all amnmuuni- tion, were found, imot counting in the armament at McAllister. 1mm order to recal)itulate, I state that simice October 4 to December 21, the Fifteemith Army Corps had mmmarched, in forty-six actual muarchming clays, 684 mimiles; cut, corduroyed, amid otlmerwise constructed thirty-two miles of roa(l, ammd built 1,502 ymirds of bridge; while it (lestroyed most effectually over 60 mniles of railroad. Being omm ami exposed flamik, time corps had a large share of the fighting during time campaign, and the actions at Allatoona, Griswoldvihle, and McAllister will shine as bright stars in the record of the corps. Our losses imm battle were comuparatively light, and I amn happy to state that, thanks to the very efficient aml(1 skillful medical COPI)5 umider the direction of Doctor Niccolls, surgeon of volumiteers, not a single ma Page 90 90 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL of our wounded was left behind aiid given up to the mercies of a preju- diced enemy. All those i)oor sufferers caine with us through the wil- derness of Georgia, and are all doing well. It is a consoling thought that even the remains of those noble martyrs are resting in soil which soon will be redeemed front treason and become our country once more. Lists of casualties have been forwarded. Notwithstanding we were dependent on the country for the subsist- ence for men and beasts, and large numbers of foragers were neces- sarily and constantly at large, the system adopted to regtilate these parties was efficient enough even in the thce of ubiquitous rebel cav- alry on our flanks. The trool)M and animals were more than amply sup- plied. At times the mneii fared luxuriously; an(1 while but very few of our men were takemi prisoners, our foraging l)arties captured a consid- erable number of rebel officers and soldiers; in one instance they secured the bearer of important dispatches from General Hardee to General Wheeler. I cannot look back on this campaign without feeling under the greatest obligations to the officers under my coinmuand. With the assistance of Generals Woods, ilazen, Smith, and Corse, there are but few things which cannot be achieved by such officers and men as the Fifteenth Army Corps is composed of. I had occasion before this to bring the services of the above generals, and of General Walcutt and other officers, officially to the notice of the major-general commanding the army. I here beg to express my high admiration of them. My thanks are due to the officers of my staff, namely: Colonel Fort, chief quartermaster; Colonel Carpenter, chief commissary of subsist- ence; Major Gordon, acting senior aide-de-cainp; Major Woodworth, medical iimspector; Major Gillette, provost-marshal; Captains White- head and Wheeler, assistant adjutants-general; Captain Hubbard, act- immg aide-de-camp; Captain Perkins, actiimg assistant ins~)ector-general; Lieutenant Dickey, commissary of umusters; Lieutenant Perry, acting aide-de-camp; and Lieutenant Mitchell, ordi~ai~ce officer. They per- formed their arduous duties with great zeal and proved to be reliable soldiers. To Major Stolbrand I have to acknowledge important services dur- ing the campaign as chief of artillery of the corps. Through his energy and skill that branch of the arms which was under his imume- diate care was in most excellent condition. Captain Klostermann, the acting chief engineer, filled the position with marked ability. He did most valuable services in exploring roads through the virgin forests of Johnson, Bin anuel, Rulloch, and Bryant Counties, where for miles and miles there is no guide or landmark ,amind the compass his sole relia?mce. I res~)ectfully refer to the imiclosed reports of my subordinate com- manders. I remain, your most obedient servant P. JOS. OSTERHAUS, Major- (Thneral, U. 8. Volunteers. Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee Page 91 CHAP LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 91 HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY Conps, Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor, in compliance with instructions received, to report upon the artillery captured by this command during the investment of Savannah, Ga.: First Division, Brig. Gen. C. H. Woods commanding: 32-pounder smooth-bores 12 8-inch sea-coast howitzers 3 24-pounder howitzer - - 1 Total 16 Third Division, Brig. Gen. John E. Smith commanding: 32-pounder smooth-bores 10 8-inch howitzers 4 10-pounder columbiad 1 12-pounder howitzer ... 1 Total 16 Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. John M. Corse commanding: Rifled 6-pounder 1 3-inch 10-pounders 2 32-pounders 14 6-inch rifled gun 1 8-inch sea-coast howitzer 1 6-inch smooth-bore 1 12-pounders, brass 3 3-inch guns ,iron 2 Total 25 In addition to the above, the Second Division, Brig. Gen. William B. Hazen commanding, captured at Fort McAllister some 23 gulls. His report will be duly forwarded when received. Very respectfully, P. JOS. OSTERHAUS, Major- General. Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, Asst. Adjt. Gem, Department and Army of the Tennessee. HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 2, 1865. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, iii compliance with para- graph I, Special Field Orders, No. 192, series of 1863, headquarters Department and Arniy of the Tennessee, an inspection has beeti made in the several divisions of the corps, and all surplus stock turned over to the division quartermasters and by them branded and regularly taken up on their pal)ers. I would further invite your attention to the following statement, by divisions, of the number of horses and mules actually turned over: First Division, Brigadier-Gen~ral Woods commanding 179 Third Division, Brigadier-General Smith commanding 82 Fourth Division, Brigadier-General Corse commanding 212 Total 48 Page 92 92 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. A report has been called for from the Second Division as to the resnit of the inspection ordered, and as sooii as received an extract will be forwarded to department headquarters tor the information of the commanding general. 1 am, captain, very resl)ectfLllly, your ol)edient servant, P. JOS. OSTERIIAUS, Mqjor- General, Commanding. Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., J)epartment and Army of the Tennessee. A DDENDA. HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 1, 1865. Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee: CAPTAIN: In reply to your request for an estimate of the amount of bridging and corduroying done by time pioneer corps of the several divisions of this army corps, I have tile honor to invite your attention to the reports of division commanders, herewith transmitted, anda coil sohidated estimate prepared frlr the informatiou of the comm and- ing general by the chief engineer of the corps. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, MAX. WOODIJULL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. (In absence of the major-general.) [Inclosure No. 1.] HDQRS. FIRsT DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., December 31, 1864. Major WOODHULL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifteenth Army Corps: MAJOR: I respectfully otP~r the following report of the amount of corduroying, & c., done by may command (luring the campaign just closed, traim scribing from the official report of time conimnanding officer of mny pioneer cot-his: Yards. Amount of corduroving (cut timber) 6, 754 Amount of foot bridge (cut timber) 770 Amount of foot bridge (rails) 825 Amount of wagon bridge (cut timber) 2, 007 Total 10, 35i Nearly six miles. New road cut, eleven miles, for teams and infantry. Foits erected: One on the Oconee River, 6,844 feet of (lirt thrown up; two on Ander- sons plantation. 18,854 feet of (hirt thrown up; total, 25,698. I amn, major, very res~ectfuhly, your obedient servamit, CHARLES R. WOODS, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 93 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 93 nlnclosure No. 2.] Report of amount of bidyinq and corduroying done by Second Divisson, Fifteenth Army Corps. Amount Amount Date. Locality. - of bridg- of cordo _____ ing. roying. Feet Feet. Nov. 15 Marched from Whuite Hall to Cotton River 300 16 Marched through MeDonough and campe(l on Tussahaw Creek 17 Marche(l to Liberty Church 30 250 18 Ma.r(lled to Indian Sl~ihugs 200 150 19 Marched to Persis fiurmn 40 500 2;) Marched to Dondersuergs place 30 41)0 21 Marched through Clinton and canmued six miles beyond 600 22 Marched to Dr. Gibsons place i 400 21 Marched nine miles; took up position seven miles west cf Irwiuton 100 24 Marched to Irwinton 150 25 I Marched to Oconee River 400 26 Marched to Fluckers Piruum 800 27 Marched to Irwins Cross-Roads 21)0 1, 200 28 Encamped on the LittleOhmoopee 250 2,000 29 Marched to near Sutherlands Mills I ~e0 2, 000 30 Marched to Summerville 350 2,500 Dec. 1 Marched to the junction of Jones farm null 01(1 Savannah roall 2(10 3,500 2 Marched to Sculls Creek 250 4, 00)) 100 2,000 4 Marched to Stateshorough 200 4,000 5 Marched to Proctors farm 200 2, 000 6 Marched to Brier Patch 1, 500 7 Marched to Black Creek 100 1, 500 8 Marched to Bryan CourtHouse 1, 000 9 Marched across the Cannouchee River 200 10 Encamped ten miles from Savannah 250 Total 1,850 31,900 SAVANNAH, GA., December 31, 1364. Inclosure No. 3. IIDQRS. THIRIzI l)JVISLON, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, & ttannah Ga Decent Maj. MAX. WOODHULL, , ., ber 31, 1861. Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifteenth A ruty Corps: MAJOR: In compliance with instructions of date I ilave the honor to report the following amount of bridging and corduroying done by this division (luring tile past campaign: Date. Locality. Bridging and cor duroying. Yards. Nov. 25 Near Balls Ferry 1, 760 27 East of (Jeonee 1-liver 100 28 Between Irwins Cross.Roads and Savannah road 300 29 Between camp oum Savannah road null Sutherlands Mum 700 30 Snthmerlands Mills to Summerville 300 Dec. 1 Jletween Summerville and Cannouchec 350 2 Cannonchee and Sculls Creek 200 4 Between Sculls Creek and Stateshorough 300 7 Between Brannons and Ogeechmee Rive~ 400 Ogeechee road 403 Road to Statioxi No. 1, Georgia railroad 200 I Total I ~, ~ I am, in ajor, very respectfully, your obediciit servant, JOHN E. SMITH, Brigadier- General Page 94 OPERATIONS IN S. C.~ GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. [Inclosure No. 4.] HDQRS. FOURTH DIvIsIoN, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ,Savannah, Ga., December 31, iSGI. Maj. MAX. WOODHULL, Assistant Adjutant- General, E~fteenth Army Corps: MAJOR: In compliance with instructions from corps headquarters this evening, I have the honor to forward the inclosed report of bridges built and corduroying done by this division during the recent campaign. This report does not include the foot bridges built or the roads repaired, previously corduroyed by other division s. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN M. CORSE, Brigadier- General. Commanding. [Sub-inclusure.] Report of the number of bridges built and the amoicut of eordnroying done by the Fourth Dicision, Fiftecnth Army Corps, on the march from Rome to Saran nah, Ga. Route. Rome to Kingston Kingston to Allatoona Allatoona to Marietta Marietta to Turners Ferry Turners Ferry to East Point East Point to near MeDononch MeDonough to near Jackson Jackson to Ocmnulgee Ocmulgee to Monticello Munlicello to Hillsborough Hilisborough to near Clinton Clinton to Conmusissioners Fork Commissioners Fork to Gordon Gordon to Milton Milton to Irwins Cross-Roads Irwins Cross-Roads to Peacocks Peacocks to Wrightsvillo Peacocks to Ohoopee Little Ohoopee to Slaters Mills Wrightsville to Slaters Mills Slaters Mills to near Summerville Summerville to near Milieu Near Milieu to Sculls Creek Sculls Creek to Hod es farm Hodges to near O~.eechee Near Ogeechee to Ogeechee River Bloomiugdale to Canal Canal to Little O,,eechee Amount of cmmrdu -in- ro,) done. Streams. Jar(ls. 15 Brinleys Creek 100 Two-Run Branch 375 Allatoona Creek 250 Branch Cotton River. 50 25 500 1, 500 Big Muddy Creek 1, 21)0 Cedar Creek 1,000 25 75 1,500 100 550 50 2000 111100 500 500 300 Sculls Creek 500 500 100 10 2, 00(1 Total a14, 825 . 31 a 44, 475 feet. [Inelosure No. 5 3 HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Sa.iannah, Ga., January 1, 1865. A consoli(latc(1 estimate of l)ridges and corduroy road collstructed by the pioneer corps of the Fifteenth Army Corps: First Division, 16,915 yards corduroy road, 200 yards bridge; Second Division, 10,630 yards corduroy road, 617 yards bridge; Third Division, 5,010 yards corduroy rOa(l; Fourth 1)ivision, 14,825 yards corduroy road, 31 bridges; total, 47,380 yards. H. KLOSTERMANN, Capta in, Engineers, Fifteenth Army Corps. 94 No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Number of bridges. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 4 1 Page 95 CHAP. LVI.] 95 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. Report of casualties in the Fifteenth Army Corps during the campaign in pursuit of Flood and the Sarannah campaign. Commissioned officers Enlisted men. Command. S ______ _ __ __ __ ~ 44 First Division .1 6 -. 14 72 2 94 Second I)ivision -- 5j r Total* 12 ~ 585 6121 1452 444 641 Third Division -----I Artillery tlrigad Fourth Division 61 Ii 1 477 ____________________ I List of casualties in the Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps (Brig. Gen. W. B. Hazen conunanding), in the assault on Fort McAllister, December 13 18G4. K ilhd. Wounded. I___ Command. 70th Ohio 6 -. 30 48th Illinois I I 6 - 15 ii 911th Illinois - - I 14 6th Missonri 1 2 116th Illinois 1 7 30th Ohio 1 7 53d Ohio 1 54th Ohio 1 4 111th illinois 1 3 3 9 47th Ohio 1 1 15 Total 4 20 7 103 All of which I have the honor to submit. P. JOS. OSTERHAUS, Major- General. No. 12. Report of Liettt. William II. Sit erfq, U. sS. Army, Signal Officer. HDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, FIFTEENTH ARMY CoRPs, Sai~auuah, Ga., December 31, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of duties performed by the detachnient of the Signal Corps Serving with the Fifteenth Army Corps during the 111014 tits of November mid December, 1864: November 1 to 5 I was on the march with the Fifteenth Army Corps, returning from the campalon iii North Georgia and Alabama, and had with me tile seven enlisted mcii of my owti J)arty. Git this march we. The erroneous addition of the third and flft1~ columns of talile is according to the original. 0~ H 44 36 23 17 3 8 8 1 5 16 17 13 Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA.. AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. were generally in advance of the infantry column, reconnoitering and scouting, and twice during the five days had successful skirmishes with the enemy. When not in advance I was with the general, doing the duty of a staff officer. The army having gone in camp at Smyrna Camp-Ground, I went to Atlanta with permission to re-equip and collect the detachment, where I remained until the 14th, when I rejoined the corps. First Lient. J. H. Weirick was on a signal station on Kenesaw Moun- tain November 1 to 14. The line this station was on was one of con- siderable importance, as it was the only rapid means of communication between Atlanta and our base of supplies when the telegraph was in- terrupted, which was frequently the case; and Lieutenant Weiricks station was the most important one on the line, being, in addition, a station of observation overlooking a considerable portion of country infested by the enemy. Besides this, the lieutenant had no officer to assist him, and was on an exposed and uncomfortable station, but he and the men with him did their duty well. First Lient. J. L. Shella- barger was at Chattanooga on 1)usiness for the chief signal officer on the 1st of November, whence he returned to Atlanta on the 3d, reporting to inc on the 6th, amid remained there umitil the 14th, awaiting orders. Second Licat. J. Q. Adams was on a signal station in Marietta until November 14, conducting it creditably and without assistance from the other officers. Lieutenant Shellabarger and myself with fourteen enlisted mcii joined the Fifteenth Corps when it started from Atlanta on November 15, and that day we were in a sharp skirmuish at Rough and Ready, where, fimiding a road around the enemys flank, we assisted in driving thmemn from a fortified position. When the i-ear of time army had passed Kemme- saw Mountain on its march southward, Lieutenants Weirick aiid Adams abandoned their stations there, coining fom-ward rapidly, and joined the remimainder of the detachimnemit on the morning of the 16th. That day we met the emmemny at McDonongh, and the detachment assisted in a charge in driving a brigade of rebel cavalry fi-omn the towim, following it up with little sul)pom-t tor several miles. There beimig four officers present with the detachment, one was detailed to accompany the gemmeral each day dum-ing the remaindem of the mnarch to assist in staff duties, or iii any other way in which lie could make himself useful, while with the remain- tier of the party, now numbering mom-c than twenty trusty umen, muonmited aimd well armed, I was contimmually reconnoitering and scouting in front amid on time dank of time infantry colummi. Jim this way we were enabled to obtain much valuable iimformation in regard to the enemy and the roads, amid occasionally having a skirmish with om- a chase after time rebels. During the march we captured 11 prisoners and nearly 100 horses amid mules, iiot losing a single man or animal out of time detach- nient. (Jim oum- arrival opposite Station No. 3, I crossed the Ogecehmee River in a little boat with but three men, on thme order of General How- am-d, anti reconnoitered through swanips and woods, intcmmdimmg to cut time m-ailroad that imight, but was not permitted to do so. The night of our arrival at the Cannouchec Itivem-, I crossed that streaum in the face of the emmenmy with but two mmmcii an(l reconnoitered for roads through the swamps until midnight, reporting to (len eral Osterhmaus. The follow- imig day we sw-am our horses acros5, amid with the detachment went in advammee of time infantry and were time first to reach and destroy the Gulf railroad anti telegraph. On our am-rival in front of Savannah each of the officers reconnoitered alm(l made himself acquainted witim the lines amid occasionally directed time fm-c of our artillery with the aid o Page 97 CHAP. LYI.j THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 97 our superior glasses. When the Second I)ivision was sent to reduce Fort McAllister, I, with Lieutenant Adams and ten men, went with it, and, taking the advance, charged over torpedoes in the road and cap- tured the picket. While the lines were being formed around the fort we opened communication across the river to a point where General Sherman was, and received thronoli signals his order for the assault, our station being at the time so near as to be uiider fire that we might be near General ilazeti. When the fort was taken we immediately moved to it, and soon after opened communication with the fleet, which was kept up whenever vessels were near us. l)ecember 16, I returned to headquarters of the corps, Lieutenant Weirick taking my place at the fort; and two days afterward I an(l Lieutenant Shellabarger opened signal communication through from headquarters to the fort, passing a number of important messages, and (olitiniing the line until a day after the fall of Savannah, when it was relieved by order of General Sherman. We then came to the city. On the 24th I was placed in charge of officers of the Seventeenth Corps, and ordered to open communication from the city to Fort McAllister, con- necting with the telegraph at Rosedew, which I succeeded in accom- plishing the following day. On the 28th Lieutenants Shellabarger and Adams established a signal station on the tower in the river below Fort Jackson, thereby opening communication from the city to Fort Pulaski amid Huiton Head, which post they still occupy. It is but just to say that the officers aimd men of this detachment have done their duty well and nobly, nor have there been wanting instances of personal bravery well worthy of commendation. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedieimt servant, WM. 11. SHERFY, First Lie atenant, & ~pta 1 Corps, Corn mand jim q J)etachrn eat. Capt. H. N. WHEELER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fifteenth Army Corps. No. 13. Reports ol. Biiy. Gem Charles Ii. Woods, U. ~ A rinq, eomnw.ndinq First Division. linQus. FIRST l)IvIsIoN, FIFTEENTH ARMY Conps, Masseys Farm, GYm., November 25, 1R64. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the affhir of yesterday at Duncans farm, near Griswold, was of greater magnitude than was at first supposed. Early in the morning I received orders from Maj. (len. P. J. Oster- hans, commanding Fifteenth Army Corps, to take up a strong defensive position near the church, and with one brigade to make a demonstra- tion in the direction of Macon. I selected the Second Brigade, com- manded by Brig. Gen. C. C Walcntt coniposed of the following regi- miients: Fortieth Illinois Infantry, Lient. Col. H. W. Hall commanding, 206 enlisted men; Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, Lieut. Col. I. N. Alexander (ommnanding, 218 enlisted men; One hundred and third Illinois Infantry, Maj. A. Willison commanding, 219 enlisted men; Sixth Iowa Inhintry, Maj. W. H. Clune commanding, 177 enlisted men; Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry. Col. It F. Catterson commanding, 366 enlisted men; II 1~VoL XLI Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHiP. LVI. One hundredth Indiana Infantry, Maj. iR. M. Johnson commanding, 327 enlisted men; total present for duty, 1,513; and one section of Battery B, First Michigan, Captain Arndt commanding. About the time I started, the pickets of Brig. Geii. J. Kilpatrick were driven in by a superior force of the enemy. General Walcutt moved forward about two miles and a half on the Griswold road, with a heavy line of skir- mishers, which drove everything in front of them to a point beyond Griswold. The forces met on this reconnaissance were a part of Wheelers cavalry. 1 then, by direction of General Osterhaus, drew General Walcutts brigade back to a strong position on the Duncan farm, and posted it in the edge of the woods~ with open fields in front, the flanks resting near a swamp, impassable except at one or two points, and directed temporary works of rails and logs to be thrown up. About 2 oclock the eneniy attacked with infantry (mili- tia), three lines deel), an(l lluIIll)CriIIg about 5,000, lour pieces of artil- lery (12-pounder Napoleoiis)~ a 11(1 two brigades of Wheelers cavalry in reserve. The enemy moved across the Ol)C~ fields in three compact lines and gained a ravine within seventy-five yards of our works, from which they made three assaults, but met each time with a bloody repulse. The fight continued until sundown, when they retired, leav- Pig their dead and wounded on the field. Shortly after dark the bri- gade was withdrawn to the position near the church. About the middle of the engagement Brig. Geii. C. C. Walcutt was wounded severely in the lower part of the leg; he retired from the field, and Col. B. F. Catterson, Ninety- seventh li idian a Infantry, assumed comm and of the brigade. He showed marked ability in the manner in which he handled the troops. Shortly after the engagement opened the section of time battery was withdrawn on account of the severe fire from the enemys lines, then within 100 yards of our position. an(l very (lestructive to the men and horses of the battery. About 4 oclock I sent Major Bald- win, Twelfth Indiana lufantry (First Brigade), to report his regiment to Colomiel Catterson, who put him on the right of his lines to prevent time enemy from turning that flank. I also ap~)lied to Colonel Murray for some cavalry to cover the flanks; he kindly sent a regiment on each flank, covering and watching the crossing of the swamp. I cannot speak in too high terms of the coolness amid gallantry of Brig. Gen. C. C. Walcutt and Col. B. F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh Indiana Infantry. The skill with which they handled the troops aLI(l the results obtained show them to be macn of marked ability. The rebel loss, as near as could be ascertained without actual eonnt, was 300 killed amid from 700 to 1,200 wounded. Major-General Phi lips, Colonel Muna, Fifth Georgia, and Colonel George, are reported by the prisoners taken to have been killed, and Brigadier-General Anderson to have been wounded. Twemmty-eight prisoners w-ere captured and turned over to the provost-marshal of the army corps. Fifteen wounded were brought in and left at a house, not having transportation for them. Our loss was 13 killed, 79 wounded, and 2 niissing. Inclosed l)lease find a list of killed ammd wounded2~ I will forward Colonel Cattersons report as soon as received. I have the honor to be, captain, your most obedient servamit, CHAS. B. WOODS, ihififal icr- General of Volunteers. Capt. FREDERICK WHITEHEAD. Assistant Ai~j a to at- Gea eral, Fi/~eenth Army Corps. Omittel Page 99 CHAP. LVI.] THE $AVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 99 [Indorseiiieiit. I llm~Rs. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Irwins Cross-Roads, Ga., Noceinber 27, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. The within was received subsequent to making my report. The engagement was of a more severe character, and our own loss a little greater than the information led me to suppose, but fortunately the enemy attacked us at the very 1)oiut where we were prepared, so that with a force only about one-third as large as that of the enemy he was so completely defeated that he has troubled [us] no more in that quar- ter. I renew my commendations of the brigade conimander and others engaged on that day. Hespeetfully, 0. 0. HOWARi), Major- General. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS Fort Thunderbolt, Ga., January 15, 1865. I have the hoiior to submit the following rel)ort of the part taken by this division during the campaign from Atlanta to Savaiinah: On the 15th of November last my command started from White Hall, near Atlanta, moving southward on the old Macon road. Wlteii the head of the column had arrived in the vicinity of Rou~h an(l ILleady, indications of the enemy became apparent. however, the rebels steadily withdrew before my skirmishers as oped. In the afternoon , they were from time to time devel- after having gone into camp, the Twenty-ninth Missouri Mounted Infantry developed a cavalry force of the enemy, some 900 strong, in our front, who made use of two light field pieces. How- ever, they soon withdrew, and the advance, via Mcl)onough and Indiaii Springs, was continued without interruption until reaching the Gemulgee River on time 19th. My command crossed the same day on the pontoon aimd marched to within seveu miles of flihisborougli. Passing through llillsborough and Clinton, the Macon railroad was reached the night of the 21st at a point sonme thirteen miles east of Macon. TIme morning of the 22d, in accordance with instructions from time major-general commanding, I promptly or(lered two regimemitsthe Seventy-sixth Ohio Infamitry and Ninth Iowa Infantryat work tearing up the rail- road. Some four miles were completely destroyed, in addition to a large trestle-work bridge that was burned by time Seventy-sixth Ohio. Being ordered to make a reconnaissance in the directiomi of Macon to develop the enemy in that vicinity, I dispatched time Second Brigade, Brig. Gemi. C. C. Walcutt commanding, for that purpose. I semid here- with my official report of this reconnaissance as made at time time to Major-General Ostem.haus.* The morning of the 23d ot November the march was resumed, and continued uninterruptedly mm til reaching the Oconec River, which was crossed oim the afternoon of tIme 20th. Noveni- ber 27, in compliance with orders received front the niajor-general corn- inanding the corps, I ordered one of my brigadesthie Third, Col. J. A. Williamson commandingto the Macon railroad for the purpose of destroying the rails and ties. Colonel Williamson rejoined the division the same evening at Riddleville reporting that he had completely destroyed somue three miles of the track. Front this time until i)ecem- ~ce ~. 97 Page 100 100 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. ber 6 nothing worthy of record transpired. The line of march lay through a desolate piney barren, dotted with numberless swamps and sluggish streams, that were a constant hiiiderance to oar advance, often causing delays of three, four, and five hours duration. I may state, however, that when encamped on Sculls Creek, December 3, 1 sent one regiment beyond the Ogeechee River for the L)ll1pose of (lestroying the iron and ties on the Central railroad; one mile of the track was torn up and burned. December 6, the Third Brigade, together with one section of my battery (Twelfth Wiscomisin), was oiAered to Wrights Crossing, for the purpose of securing the crossing over the Ogeechee River at that place. The bridge, however, had beeii (lestroyed, but Colonel Williamson managed to cross the Twenty-fifth and part of the Ninth Iowa Infantry, who at once secured a finn foothold on the east side of the river. The rebels here made their appearance in small force, and some considerable skirmnishimig occurred. Three companies of the Ninth Iowa were advanced as far as Station No. 2 on the railroad; but before they could succeed in tearing up any of the track a superior force of the enemy appeared, and the companies were obliged to return to the river crossing. The next morning, having been directed to send one brigade down on the cast side of the river toward ~Jenks Bridge, and if possible to Station No. 2, the Third was dispatched with these instructions; and that evening Colonel Williamson reported to me his arrival at the latter place, havin gumet but little opposition. The advance was commtinue(l on the 8th, and December 9 1 sent one brigade (the First) forward to Eden, where it took position, covering movements being made beyond the Ogeechee River. December 10, crossed the Ogeechee River at Dillons Crossing, where I was joined by the First Brigade, and my command at once marched eastward, following the towpath of the 0 geechee Canal. Continuing some nine miles I struck the Augusta and Darien road, and bearmiig off to the right for the distance of three miles I went into position, throwing up works in my front and coummecting my skirmishers with those of tIme Fourth Division, Fifteenth Armny Corps, on my riglmt, while the nature of the ground on my left was such as in itself to afford pro- tection. The night of the 11th my division was moved to the right about twelve miles, to the neighborhood of Andersons plantation, where I again took position, with my left restiiig on the Savannah and Kings Bridge road, and my right connecting with the Fourth Division of this corps. The enemny was soon (leveloped, strongly posted about one muile to my front, with low, immarshy gronud and the Little Ogeechee River intervening. This stream, about thirty feet wide and from twelve to fourteen feet deep, tollowed their line of works from twenty to fifty yards imi front of the same. The only approach to the rebel lines was over the main road, which was but a naked causeway, comn- ~)lete1y swept by artillery admirably posted. From this tinme I con- tillmie(I to stremmgthen my works and a(lvance my lines, so that by the 20th of December 1 was strongly intrenched, with a good earth-work for my guns, and with my skirumisimers advanced to within 100 yards of the mnaiu line of the rebels. l)ecember 21, may division marched with other portions of the army into Savannah, the enemy having evacuated, and camped on the south 5i(le of tIme city. l)urimmg the march from Atlanta to Savaumnah my commamid built more than four muiles of corduroy road, one mile and n half of bridging over the swamps, creeks, and bayomms, besides cutting eleven umiles of road through the timber for time passage of trains amid troops Page 101 GhlAr. LVTh1 IJIE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 101 I lost in killed 1~) enlisted LUCH ; Ill ~voitnded, S commissioned officev~ and SO enlisted men, with 2 enlisted nien missing; making a total of 105. My divisiomi captured during the entire caLlIj)aiglI 9 commissioned officers and 45 enlisted men (total, 54), besides killing and wounding a great many. The rebels abandoned t(; pieces of artillery in my immediate front wliem~ they evacuated the works around Savannah. I am, major, very respectfully. your obedient servant, C. II. WOODS, Irnet Miajor- General. Maj. MAX. WOODHULL, Assista a I Adjuta at- General, F~f tecnth Army (!wp No. 14. ReJ)ort Of (vol. ]fiI() A~m itli, TWCntq-9ixth Iowa infantri1. eommaudinq First Brigade. [JDQR5. FIt?s~ BRIG.. FIRSi J)iv., 15~iT Ani~ix- CoRps, CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at 43 a. ui. of the 15th day of November, 1564, 1 left camp at White Hall, Ga., with my brigade; marched on the road toward Rough and Ready with the balance of (livision. My brigade consists of the following regiments: Seventy-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteers, Col. William 13. Woods comnmnandin g; Twenty- seventh Missouri Volunteer Infantry, Col. Thomas Curly command- big; consolidated battaliomi Thirty-first. and Thirty-second Missouri, Maj. A. ~J. Seay commanding; Twelfth Jn(liaLma Volunteer Infantry, Maj. B. D. Baldwin commanding; Twenty-sixth Iowa Xolunteer In- fhntry, Maj. ~Tohn Lubbers commanding; Twenty-ninth Missonri Vol- unteer Infantry, Lient. Col. Joseph S. Gage commanding. The latter regiment bein mounted and on duty at headquarters Fifteenth Army Corps, I respectfully refer you to the report of Lieut. Col. Joseph S. Gage. I marched, via McDonough and Indian Springs, to~var(1 the crossing of the Ocmulgee River at Nuttings Factory, meeting with no resistance on the roads, striking the Georgia Central Railroad about ten miles east of Macon, near (riswoldville, on time evening of the 21st of November, and encamped for tIme night. On the morning of the 22d one regimnentthe Seventy-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantrywas ordered to report to Brig. Gemi. C. R. Woods to destroy railroa(l, which was done by sai(l regiment destroy- ing three miles of railroad, including omie large bridge and trestle-work over a stream near Gordon Jumictiomi. [moved with time balance of my brigade about three miles and halted was ordered into l)Osition on each side of the road running from Gordon to Griswoldville, where 1 put up a limme of works. The cavalry nuder Brigadier-General Kilpatrick hmad been skirmnishimmg witlm the enemy in our froimt. Brigadier-General Wal- outt, Second Brigade, First l)ivision, Fifteenth Army Corps, was on a reconnaissance toward Griswoldville, when they found the enemy in con- siderable force, and my brigade was ordered from the line of works to the support of Second Brigade. After moving three-quarters of a mile, I was ordered to return to the works which I had just left, and was ordered to extend them to right ammd left to cover more than my brigad Page 102 102 OPERATIONS TN ~. C., GA., ANt) ILA. [CTTAP. LYT. l~on t. One regimei itthe Twel ITh tiidiai ia, M jo~ Raklwiiiinoved oi to the 5Lll)pOrt ot ~ecoud Brigade, avid weiit ilit() position on the right of the line, a~(Ivall~e~ skirn~isliers, meeting the enemys skirmishers just iii time to prevent them from flanking the Second Bri~ade. The Twelfth Indiana had one man slightly wounded. Adjt. Marshall H. Parks had his horse shot from under him while assisting in forming the lines of his regiment. The skirmishers had advanced but a short distance in front of the line when they were engaged, and soon drove the enemiiy from their front. As soon as it became dark I was called on fin one more regiment, which I sent out on the road near where the fighting had been done during the day, and was put in position, forming on the right of the road, and there remained until about 9 oclock, wimemi the troops were withdrawn and my regiment returned to the line of works I had built during the day. At 12 p. in. the Seventy-sixth Ohio, Col- onel Woods commanding, returned from the railroad. The next day we resumed our march, marching about five miles, and was assigned a position on left of road, where we halted, facin gto time rear, and put up a line of works. Marched agaimi about 2 oclock same day, halting for the imight about five miles farther, at Gordon Cross- Roads, and put np another line of works. Next morning at 7 oclock resumed our line of march and moved on toward Irwinton, crossing the Oconee River at Planters Ferry, and encamped that night at Irwinton Cross-Roads, where we lay in camp until 1~ in. the next day, resuming our march, keeping all the time on time right of Central railroad. Nothing of any importammee transpirimig; capturing mules and horses and contrabands every day. Moving toward Savannah, we struck the Ogeechee River below Milleim, and after crossing Sculls Creek halted for omme day, my brigade crossing the river and destroying about one mile of railroad; returned the same day. Marched the miext day. My brigade, having the advance, was delayed about one hour in repairing the bridges over Nevils Creek, this being the 4th day of l)ecemnber. Fifth day we marched about sixteen miles, encamping four miles south of Mill Creek. Lay in cammip on the 6th until noon, marched nine miles, and encamped for the night. 7th, lay imi camI) until 1~ imi., cimangeci front, amid encamped for the night, having three regiments in my front line behind works which I had thrown up. Next day marched seven- teen miles, and encamped for the iuighit. About 1 oclock of the 9th, by order fromn Brig. Gen. C. H. Woods, my brigade was ordered three miles farther, with instructions to report to Major-Genemal Osterhaus, at Edemm Conrt-llouse, where we took a position and threw lip works. At 12 oclock that night I received orders from Major-General Osterhaus to umove at 4 oclock on the direct road to Dillons Bridge, and to take measures to pass the camp of Second Division, Fifteemith Army Corps, by 7 oclock in the morning, which I did, crossing the Ogeechee River on a foot bridge at Dillons Crossing, my teams crossing on tIme pommtoon about two immiles farther up the river, and muovimug on time towpath along time canal mmntil we struck a cross-road ruinmimig to the Kings Bridge road, filiimg right, and encaumping for the night near the Little ()geechee River close in front of the emmemys works. Next day we tried to get to Kings Bridge road, but could not on account of the road being full of cavalry moving. After dark I moved with the balance of the division across time causeway, in front of the enemys guns, amid camped on the Kings Bridge road, nine vimiles from Savannah. Nothing of importance traimspimed for some days. Remaining in time same camp, and, with a detail from my brigade, put up a line of works and fnrnished one regiment eaeh day to support the battery b Page 103 UIIAP. TNt.] THE SAVANNAIT CAMPAIGN. 108 the cemetery from Ihe 13th to 22d [21st], whcii it was (liscovered that the enemy had evacuated the iiighit betore, and I itiarched in with the bal- :i.iiee of the division to the works just outside the city of Savannah. The Twenty-seventh Missouri Infantry has been on detached service from 14th of December, guarding the rice mill of Doctor Cheves, on the Ogeechee, and in garrisouing Forts Rosedew and Beaulien, on Wassaw Sound; the Seventy-sixth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry are on (luty as provost guard in the city; the Twenty-ninth Missouri Volun- teer Infantry, being yet on (luty at corps headquarters, is encamped in the city; the Twelfth Indiana, cousoli(lated battalion Thirty-first and Thirty-second Missouri, and Twenty-sixth Iowa, are encamped on the left of the Ogeechee road, and inside of the iiiner works. Our march has beeii a perfect success. The loss from my brigade has been I man captllre(l and 2 slightly wounded. We have captured a great number ot mules alI(l horses, which have all been eitl~er put into teams in place of others which were jaded, taken ill), or tnrned over to provost-nmam-shal or division quartermaster. The men are in much better health than when we started, and our animals have improved at least 25 per cemit. All of which I respectfully submit. MILO SMITH, (~oi() n ci, (om.ni an ding I.1Jiga(lC. [Capt. FRED. II. ~\ILSoN, Aetinq A.ssistant A~jatunt-Uenera1.] No. 15. Report of (7o1. Tb omas (in ny, Twenty-se ren th 11 isso an In Pintry, ~ open ations Mail 1December 21. FIDQRS. TWENTY-SEVENTh MISSOtTiTI Vor. INFANTRY. .Aear Narannab, cia., December 21, 1S61. GENERAL: I have the honor to give you a brief history of this regi- ment since my last report: On the 1st (lay of May, 18~4, we left 1~aiiit Rock Bridge, Ala., and (omnmencecl the great anti well-knowim campaign ot Major-General Sher- man through Northern ( leorgia, which lasted four months. The Twenty- se~-enth Missouri has taken an active part, an(l has had seven different engagemeimts in the Series of great l)attles that h~axe taken place (luring the whole campaign, as well as the siege of Atlanta, which lasted one month; in all of which our losses were 1 commissioned officer killed an(l 1 w-oundecl, all(l 15 enlisted men killed and 47 wounded. I am propd to say that every officer and soldier has done his (lilty faithfully amid with cre(hit to the great State to which lie belongs. Omi time 14th [15th] (lay of November, 1S64, we left Atlanta for the Gulf coast, through Southern Georgia, for the ~inurpose of the capture of Savannah. Nothing of any gm-eat interest trami spi re(l, CxcCl)t occasional skirmishing with the enemy, along our tm-iumphant march to the sea- coast, ~vhere we opened comnnmunication with time fleet of Admiral DahI- gremi on time 13th day of I)eceinber 1864. The regiment and one see- tioiin of the Fim-st Illinois Artillery, the lattei- umider the comman(l of Captain De Gress, were the first to open fire upon Fort McAllister, which is situated omm the Ogeechee River four miles from its mouth Page 104 104 OPERATiONS iN S. (2., GA., AND FLA. rCrTAr. INi. On the evening of the i:3th of December the fort was assaulted arid carried at the point of the bayonet by the Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, commanded by Brigadier-General Hazen, by which our communications were hilly ol)ene(l and our base established; which has enabled the grand army tinder the heroic Sherman to completely invest the proud city of Savannah, in which position we rest at the present time, and quietly await the fall of the doomed city before the close of the present year. The distance marched by the regiment during both campaigns is 800 miles. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THOMAS CURLY, (Jolonel, Cowman dinq Twen ty-seren th Miisson ri Volunteers. Brig. Gen. JOHN B. GRAY, Adjutant- General of Misson r~. No. 1(;. Report qf Lient. Col. Dennis T. Kirby, Twentq-serentli )lfissouri In~ tantry, of operations 1)ecember -1. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY Coins, Near Station 54, Ga., December 4, 1864. CAPTAIN: In accordance with instructions from the major-general commanding, I proceeded this morning with the First Alabama Cav- alry and G Company, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, on the road to Station 4~. I first struck the enemys pickets opposite Station 5~, ou our left flank, and drove them to Station 3. At this point I found Colonel Gage, Twenty-ninth Missouri Mounted Infantry, retreating, with the enemy in his front and rear. I drove the enemy baci~, and by directions received front the major-general commaitding, sent Coloitel Gage and his command to the rear. I continued driving the eueiny until I reached the Little Ogeechee River, when I found him in position on the opposite side, with a strong line of skirmishers on this side. He had burned the railroad bridge, but had left the passenger bridge uninjured. I dis- mounted a company and deployed them as skirmishers, and drove their skirmishers over the rivet-, and found on reaching the banks that they were busily engaged in fortifying on the other side. I skirmished with them a short time for the purpose of developing their force, and I estimate them at from 2,000 to 3,000 strong. I learned from reliable sources that there were four trains came in there to-day loaded with troops, and that they have four pieces of artillery, all under contmnand of General Wayne. The loss was one man mortally wounded, froni the First Alabama Cavalry. We captured six of their horses, with equip- merits and arms complete. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 1). T. KIRBY, Lieutenant- Colonel and Picket Officer Seren teen lb Army Comps. Capt. C. CADLE, 4z~ Page 105 CHAP. LVI.] TIlE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 105 No. 17. Report of Col. Robert F. Catterson, Ninety-seventh indiana i~fan try, commanding ASeCofld Brigade, 9t operations November 22. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRsT Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Gordon, Ga., November 23, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the engagement between this brigade and the enemy, near Griswold, on the 22d instant: Early on the morning mentioned six regiments of the brigade, General Wa]cutt commandingviz, the Forty-sixth Ohio Infantry, Ninety- seventh and One hundredth Indiana Infantry, Sixth Iowa Infantry, the Fortieth and One hundred and third Illinois Infantrywere ordered to move on the road leading to Macon, Ga., for the purpose of feeling the enemys position in that direction. Proceeding about one mile we met the enemys cavalry, under Wheeler, and drove them beyond Griswold. The object of the reconnaissance having been accomplished the bri- gade was retired about one mile and took position at a point known as Duncans farm. The enemy seeing this move followed up with three brigades of militia, numbering in all between 6,000 and 7,000 men. We had scarcely taken position in the edge of timber skirting the farm on the east when our pickets were fired upon. The brigade, thus posted behind a light barricade of rails hastily prepared after our pickets were driven in, lay anxiously awaiting his appearance. He was soon discovered emerging from the woods about 800 yards from our position, and rapidly running across an opemi field toward us iii three lines of battle, either of which more than covered our brigade front. General Walcutt ordered Captain Arndt, of the First Miciti- gan, Battery B, to open fire upon them, which he did with one section of his battery in position on the road near the center of our hue, which was replied to sharply by four guns of the enemy iii the open field, at a distance of about 800 yards, to the right and front, the first shot strik- hug and damaging a caisson. On came the enemy, endeavoring to gain possession of a ravine running parallel to and about 100 yards to our front, but the fire was so terrible that ere lie reached it many of his number were stretched upon the plain. It was at this moment that General Walcutt received a severe wound and was compelled to leave the field. I immediately assumed commamud, and discovered the enemy moving to the right. I supposed he contemplated turning my right flank. As I had already disposed of every available man in the brigade, and my left being so strongly pressed that not a muan could be spared from it, I sent to the general commanding the division for two regi ments. The Twelfth Indiana infantry was sent, and immediately l)haced in position on the extreme right; also, a squadron of cavalry to watch the right and left flanks, but the day was already ours, as the enemy had been repulsed amid driven from the field. I immediately sent for- ward a line of skirmishers, who succeeded in capturing about 42 pris- omiers and 150 small-arms. The battle commenced at 2.30 p. m. and lasted until sunset. During the engagement the enemy made three separate charges, and were as often repulsed with terrible slaughter. I would gladly notice the many deeds of daring during the action, but to do so of every mami who distinguished himself would be to men- tion each man by name in the brigade; but suffice it to say, the conduct of both officers and men was most superb Page 106 1 O(~ OPFRAT1ONS~ I~ S. C., GA., AND ELA. CHAP. L4. The loss of brigade in kille(l was 1.4; iii wouiided, 42this nitniber includes only those sent to hospital. The loss of the enemy in killed all(l wounded (0111(1 not have been less than 1,500, about 300 of whom were killed. The total number of men engaged was 1,300. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBERT F. CATTERSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Captain WILSoN. Aetq. A.~.st. A djt. Gen., Ph-st Dir., E?fteenth Armzj Corps. A 1) DEN I) A IJDQRS. DEPARTMENT ANJ) ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Gordon, Ga., No rem ber .23. 1864. Major-General OSTERHAUS, Commanding Ptfieenth Army (orps GENERAL: I take sincere pleasure in congratulating the brigade of General Walcntt, of General Woods division, of the Fifteenth Corps, on its complete success in the action of yesterday. Officers from other commands who were looking on say that there never was a better brigade of soldiers. I am exceedingly sorry that any of our brave men should fall, and ~or the sufferings of those that are woniided. The thanks of the army are doubly due to them. I tender my sympathy through you to the brave and excellent commander of the brigade, Brigadier-General Walcutt. It is hoped that his wound may not disable him. Very respectfully, your obedi emit servai it, (1k. 0. hOWARD, Major- General. P. S.The loss of the enemy is estimated from 1,300 to 2,O0() killed, wounded. ali(1 prisoners. 0. 0. Ii., Major- General. No. 18. Report of Maj. Asias Willis-on, One /tnn.(lre(1 and thir(1 Illinois Infantry. HEADQUARTERS 10Th ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Greene ASq na re, ~Sa ranna h, Ga., ~J((n nary 2, 1865. In compliance with instructions received from brigade headquarters, I have the honor to make the following report of the l)art taken by the One hundred and third Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry in the campaign just ended: On the morning of November 13, 1864, the regiment moved from camp at Vinings Station, Ga., with the divisiomi. At 7 a. in. crossed the Chattahoochee River and passed throngh the city of Atlanta, and bivouacked one mile and a half west of the city, where we remained until the niorning of the 15th of November, when we broke camp and marched with the brigade and division through Rough and Ready Station. Here our advance had a slight skirmish with the enemy. Nothing occurred along the line of our march until the morning of the 22d of November, when, with the brigade, my regiment moved out earl Page 107 CHAP. LVI.~ TILE SAVANNAIl CAMPAIGN. 107 01) a recOiiilaissaiice toward C-riswoldville, (iii. We soon foundthe enemy m three, and deployed Conipanies A and B on the left of Ninety-seventh Indiana [as] skirmishers. Advanced and had a brisk skirmish, in which the eiiemny was drivei before theni through Griswoldville. Here our skirmishers were halted, aiid were soon withdrawn to ~in opeit field where two pieces of artillery were in l)osition oii the east side of the field. We took our position to the right of the Sixth Iowa, the Ninety- seventh Indiana on our right. Here we rested, and at 1 p. m. the skirmishers were attacked by the enemys advance and driven. A strong line was soon seen forming on the west side of the field, and advanced. At this time my regiment had no works for defense, but hastily constructed a small, temporary line of works and awaited the approaching enemy, who was advancing in column by brigades. As soon as they came within range of our muskets a most terrific fire was I)oured into their ranks, doing fearful execution. Still they moved for- ward to a ravine which ran in front of the line, within forty-five yards of the works. Here they attempted to reform their line again, but so destructive was our fire that they ~vere compelled to retire. At one time it seemed that they would overcome our thin line, as our ammunition [was] nearly exhausted and none micarer thami two miles but fortunately a sufficient amouuit was procured, and our boys kept up a continual fire for nearly three hours, when skirmishers were sent for ward to capture any of the enemny left on the field. A few prisoners were bronght in. besides a number of wounded. In our front were, by actual count, 51 of the enemy killed an(l wounded; 83 stand of smuall- arms were left in our hands and turned over to the ordnance officer. Our loss was 4 killed and 8 wounded. At 8 oclock we received orders to be in readiness to move, and at 9 p. m. moved oft the field and re- joined the (livision. On the morning of the 23d again resumed the march, and at 12 inn. on the 24th camped at Irwititon, Ga. Here we laid over until tIme 25th, when we moved to the Oconee River, amid crossed on the 26th of No- vember. On the 1st of December, with the comumand, we halted near the ()geechee River. My regiment was ordered to the Ogecehmee bridge, to hold it and burn the railroad at Station No. 8~t. Joined the brigade December 2 and crossed Sculls (reek, where we remained one day. December 3 [4], resumne(1 our march. On the evening of time 6th camped amid pitt up works; here we remained until early in time morning of the 8th of Decembem-, and again moved toward the Cannouchee River and camaped within six miles of said river. On the 9th was ordered out on a reconnaissance; moved out sonie six miles to the inight, and find- ing no enemy returned. I)ecember 10, moved across the Ogeechee River and up the canal within nine miles of Savannah, and Wit llJ) works. On the 11th of December heavy eammon ading to our right. In the evenimig moved to time right, and here remained, (10mm g duty with the brigade in supporting time First Wisconsin Battery ammd skirmnishing with the enemy, until the mornimig of the 21st of I)ecembem-, when the emmemy evacuated the city of Savannah, ammd we muarched witlm the coni- mand to the city; simice which time we have been on (luty imm the city. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. WILLISON, Major, (Jomnw nding 108d I l1i~ojs Volunteers. Capt. 0. J. FAST, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 1st Dim,.. 15th Army Corps Page 108 108 OPEkATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND ILA. (CnxV. L~I. No. 19. 1~eport of Lieut. Cot. Isaac N. Alexander, Forty-sixth Ohio 14antry, of operations November 22. HDQRS. FORTY-SIXTH OHIO VETERAN VOL. INFANTRY, Near Gordon, Ga., Norember 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the following as the operations of this regiment in the engagement near (Sriswoldville on the 22d in- stant: The regiment marched from its encampment, being in column next in front of the rear regiment. Proceeded without any occurrence worthy of note until the brigade arrived at a point near where the gen- eral engagement occurred, when I was ordered to move the regiment down a road leading to the left. Having advanced a short (listance skirmishers were thrown to the front, which had not proceeded more than forty paces iii advance of the regiment in column, when they en- countered a strong line of rebel cavalry. The skirmishers engaged them, when the cavalry charged them fiercely. In the meantime the regiment was put in line, and to the end that our skirmishers might rejoimi the regiment in safety they were allowed to come within thirty yards before orders were given to fire; they were easily repulsed. They left upon the field a number of horses which had been killed and disabled and one prisoner. We then received or(lers from the general commanding brigade to retire to a position to the rear and on the ex- treme left of a new line, with the left wing deployed, extending to a swamp, in charge of Major Upton. Shortly after the engagement had commenced, the enemynot appearing in our front, I was ordered to move the regiment to the extreme right, where the enemy was then pressin very closely, and to extend well to the right, which I did nuder heavy fire, deploying out so as to cover a space equal to about three times my own proper front. In this position, which was hastily fortified, we re- pulsed the enemy in three or four assaults which lie attempted, and remained in it until withdrawn by the brigade commander. There lay in this front about 40 of the enemys dead and a large number of wounded. We had engaged 186 men and 13 officers. Our casualties were 3 men wounded. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. ALEXANDER, Lient. Vol. Forty-sixth Ohio Vet. Vol. I4an try, (omdg. Ileyt. Capt. 0. J. FAST, Actg. Asst. A~jt. Gen., Second Brigade. No. 20. Report of ]IJiaj. Edward N~ Upton, Forty-sixth Ohio Infa ntry. HDQRS. FORTY-SIXTH OHIO VETERAN VOL. INFANTRY, Sarannak, Ga., December 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders just received from your office, 1 beg leave to submit the following report of time operations of this regi- ment on the late campaign through Georgia: We started with the brigade from our camp, two miles east of Atlanta, November 15 1864, on the road toward McDonough; passed through MeDonough the 17th, and Imudian Springs November 18; crossed the Ocmulgee River November 19; passed through Ilillsborough time 20th, and Clinton the 21st, and encamped the imiglit of the 21st on the Ce Page 109 CHAP. L~I.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 109 tral Georgia Railroad, al)ollt twelve miles from Macoii, without any occurrence worthy of note. The next day (November 22) the regi- ment was sent with the brigade on a reconnaissance toward Macon; met the enemys cavalry in the forenoon, aII(I were attacked in the afternoon by a heavy force of infantry at l)nncaiis farm, near Gris- woidville, at which time and })lace occurred the battle of that name, in which the regiment participated. For details of the part which the regiment took in the battle, I woul(l beg leave to refer you to a report forwarded immediately after by the late Lient. Col. I. N. Alexander, then commanding the regiment.* The casnalties of the regiment during the day were six mcii wounded. The day succeeding th efiglitwe resumed our march toward Savannah, and passed unmolested through Irwinton November 24, Riddleville November 27, and Summerville November 30. At Wrights Bridge, on the Ogeechee River, I)ecemnber 7, the regiment was ordered at 2 p. m. to cross the river with the One hundredth Indiana Infantry, and relieve part of the Third Brigade, which was sent on a reconnaissance. At 12 in the imight we were ordered to withdraw, destroy the bridge, and rejoin the brigade. Noth- ing of importance occurred until we again encountered the enemy eight miles from Savannah, at Andersons farm, December 11, 1864. Here we remained until the 21st performing our regular tours of duty iii the front line of works, where, while lying in support of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery, December 14, we had one man wounded, the only one with the exception of those at Griswoldville, wounded in the campaign. l)ecember 21, we proceeded with the brigade to within one mile and a half of the city (our present encampment), where we have remained ever since. Before closing this report I would respectfully call your attention to the good conduct of both officers and men, each and all trying to sur- pass his comrade in soldierly bearing and cheerfulness. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD N. UPTON, iJfajor Forty-~4xth Ohio Uetcraa Vol. Infantry, (Jomdg. Regiment. [Capt. 0. J. FAST.] ~NO. 21. Report oJ Briq. (lea. IVdiwm B. Ifazen, U. ~. Army, corn inanding ~ecand Dicision. ll~tns. SEC( )N1) i)ivi SION. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORIS, & uanncilt, Oc., Jannary 9, ldbV3.t On the 15th ((1 November, every preparation being completed, this division, with the army, broke canip at Atlanta and set out upon its immarch through Georgia. It then numbered an elfoctive strength of 4,426 officers and men, and was composed of seventeen regimental organizatiolis, the three brigade commanders being Col. John M. Oliver, Fifteenth Michigan; Wells S. Jones, Fifty-third Ohio, and Theodore ~Joimes, Thirtieth Ohio. The troops moved rapidly, passing through McDonouglm the 16th, Indian Springs the 18th, crossing the Ocmulgee the 19th at Roachs Mills, reaching llillsborough time 20th, amid Clinton the 21st, where Col. Theodore Jones brigade was left to cover the Macoi roads till the next division arrived. Some skirmishing took place here, with a few casualties. On the 22(1 the Macon and Augusta Railroad See next, ante. br portion of remrt (here omitted) relating to o})erationn in North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol XXXIX, Part I, p. 745 Page 110 110 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL was crossed and the march continued, passing Irwiuton the 24th an(1 the Ocone~e River, at Rails Ferry, the 25th. The enemy was found on the opposite bank, and two regiments deployed to develop them. On the morning of the 2~th they had left and prel)aratiolls were at once made to cross, which was commenced by 11 a. in. The march was resumed without loss of tiint Passing irwins Cross-Roads the 27th, we moved toward Sunmmerville, through continuous pine forests, cross- ing several low marshy branches of the Ohoopee, reaching Summerville the 30th. The number of miles marched this month, ~73; number of casualties, 11. On December 1 the march was resulne(l in the (lirection of States- borough, along the right bank of the Ogeechee River. The remainder of the march was impeded by low, broad marshes, which it was invari- ably found necessary to corduroy. From Sumnierville to the Cannou- chee River, which was reached the 7th, the Third Division, General John E. Smith, with my own, formed a sel)arate cohunim imimder my com- mand, and was somewhat exposed to annoyances from the enemy endeavoring to reach Savannah from the west before us. On the 3d the Fifty.third Ohio lost by capture a foraging party of 1 officer and 11 men. On the 4th, near Statesborough, the foragers met a brigade of the enemys cavalry endeavorimig to join Wheeler; were attacked by them and driven to the main colunmn, losing by eaptmmre 27 and by wounds S. The enemy lost 2 killed and 2 captured. Time enemy (lefended the crossing of the Cannouchee with inthutry and two pieces artillery, having burned the bridge. l)uriiig the night of time 8th the enemy retired; an(1 the bridge being repaired, at 11 a. m. the 9th the brigades were crossedone 1)ushed to Kings Bridge, the other to a point on the Gulf railroa(i, about six muiles froni Kings Bridge, which was reached and much of the road destroyed to~vard the river by miight, including the bridge. On the 10th the division reemossed time Caimnon- chee, umovimug to amid crossing the Ogeechee at Dillons Ferry, and pro- ceeding to near the Anderson plamutation, nine miles froum Savannah. On the 12th the division muoved back to Kings Bridge, ithaving received orders to cross the Ogeechee there and nmovc down its right bank to Fort McAllister and capture it. At (laybreak the Phli the troops were put in motiomi, reaching the vicinity of McAllister at about 11 a. In. About one mile fromn the fort a picket was captured, revealing the whereabouts of a line of torpedoes acmoss the road. Somne time was lost in safely remnoving them, when leavimig eight regimneuts at that point, nine were carried forward to about 600 yards froni time fort and deployed, witim a line of skirnmishers thrown sufficiently near the fort to keel) the gmmnners frommm working their gumms with any efthctthose lirimmg to the rear being in barbette. The grounds to the riglmt of the fort being muarshy, cut through by deep streamus, rendered the deploymuemmt of that f)art of the line slow and difficult, and was not completely effected till 4.45 p. in., at which time, every officer and umami of the nine regimnemits 1)eimmg instructed what to (10, the bugle sounded the forward, and at pre- ciselv 5 oclock the fort was carried. The troops were deployed in omme line as thimi as possible. the result beimig that no man in the assault was struck till they came to close quarters. ilere the fighting becanie (les- perate and deadly. Just omitside the works a line of torpedoes had beemi l)lace(I, mammy of which were exploded by the tread of the troops, blowing muany men to atomus, but tIme line moved on without checking, amid abatis, , pahisading, and I)amal)et fioht over, under, through ditches , ing tIme garrison throuh the fort to their bomb-proofs, from which tlmey still fought, and only succumbed as each man was individually over- 1)owcicd Page 111 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. CHAP. LVI.] 111 Our losses were 24 officers and men killed, and 110 officers and meit wounded. Capt. John H. Groce, Thirtieth Ohio, an officer of many rare and valuable qualities, aiid ~vho led the first assault on X~icksburg, was killed, and Col. Wells S. Jones, Fifty-third Ohio, commanding brigade, severely wounded. The regiments most conspicuous in their gallaitry were the Seven- tieth, Forty-seventh, and Thirtieth Ohio; all the rest performed their duty equally well. After the proper commander of the second Brigade fell, Col. James S. Martin, One hundred and eleventh Illinois, assumed comnmamid of it, led it in the assault, rendering distinguished service. Col. A. C. Parry, Forty-seventh Ohio, and Lieutenant-Colonel Phil- ips, Seventieth Ohio, were also conspicuous in their 1)erformnance of duty. Maj. Thomas T. Taylor, Forty-seventh Ohio, acting judge-advocate of this division, l)referring to serve with his reghnent on the campaign, was severely wounded while fighting in the fort. The captures were as follows: The garrison, including killed, 250 men and officers, 24 pieces of ordnance, with their eqnipment, 40 tons ani- mnituition, a mouths supply of food for the garrison, the small-arms of the connuand, all the animals and equipments of a light battery, the horses of the officers, and a large amount of 1)rivate stores placed in the fort for safety. To my entire staff especial praise is due for their fifithfnl and efficient conduct during the campaign. After the frill of McAllister the division was directed to destroy the Gulf railroad for a distance of twenty miles ~vest of the Ogeechee, which it proceeded to (10 in the most thorough manner, completing time work December 21. I would respectfully (all attention to acconll)anyin g re~ )orts of brigade commanders; also, to drawings of Fort McAllister,* and a map of the country passed over.t The supply train of this division on leaving Atlanta consisted of eighty-three six-mule waons. I transtPrred to other comniands after reaching the vicinity of this place 22,000 rations. I am, very rcspectfrdly, your obe(lient servant, XV. B. HAZEN, Ih-iya dier- ~ 1 oJ Volunteers. ASST. Ainjr. GEN., FIFTEENTh ARMY Con PS. A I)I)E NDA - SPECIAL IIIXRS. lUlL. I)mv. ov TIlE Miss., FIELD ORDERS, En the Field. near A~araniw.1I, (.Th., No. 131. $ I)eeem bei .13, 186-1. The general-in-chief announces with pleasme that to-day at 4.30 P. am. the Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, assaulted Fort McAl- lister and carried the place, capturing its entire ~arrison and anna- miment, giving- him full communication with the fleet and time army of Major-General Foster. By order of Maj. Gen. W. T. Shernian: L. M. J)AYTON, A ~(iC-dC- (Jump. Sec p. 112. ~ec Plate LXX, Map t of the Atlas Page 112 0 H 0 z z z Page 113 (11AP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 11~ No. 22. Report t~t Vol. Theodore Jones, Thirtieth Ohio Infttntry, commanding First Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST BRR~., SECOND Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 8, 1865. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the part takeii by this brigade in the can1~)aign from Atlamita to Savannah: The report of effective force of November 13 was in aggregate 1,163. On November 14 the One hundred amid twenty-seventh Illinois Volun- teers were detached, and remained so during the whole campaign. On November 15 the brigade, with the division, left its camp near Atlanta, and marched nineteen miles, passing through Rough and Ready. Novemb& r 16, marched sixteen miles, passing throngli McDonongh. November 17, marched sixteemi miles. November 18, marched to In- dian Springs; distance, sevemi miles. November 19, marched twelve miles, crossing the Ocmulgee River at Ocmulgee Mills. November 20, marched twelve miles. November 21, marched to Clinton; distance, six miles. The brigade was left at this place to cover the roads until the Fourth Division l)asSed. Temporary works were thrown up, and remained in this position until the 23d. skirmishing with the enemy mnost of the time. November 23, moved at 4 p. inn. on the main Gordon road, marching nine miles. November 24, marched to Irwiuton, dis- tance twenty-three miles, escorting pontoon traimi from Gordon. Novemn- ber 25, marched to Balls Ferry, on the Oconee River. Finding the enemy in position on the opposite side, the Fifty-seventh Ohio, Major McClure commanding, and the One hundred and sixteenth Illinois, Lientenamit- Colonel Maddux commanding, were deployed as skirmishers along the river-bank, and opened fire on the emmemny across the river. The enemy left during -the night. iNovember 26, the brigade crossed the river and marched five miles. November 27, marched seven miles, passing Irwins Cross-Roads. November 28, marched fourteen miles. Novem- ber 29, marched sixteen miles. November 30, marched to Summer- ville; distance, twelve miles. December 1, marched fourteen miles. December 2, marched ten miles. December 3, marched two miles. December 4, marched to States- borough; distance, fourteen miles. December 5, marched sixteen miles. December 6, marched one mile and a half. December 7, marched to Black Creek- distance, fifteen miles. December 8, marched to Bryan Court-House; distance, twelve miles. December 9, marched two miles, crossing the Cannouchee River. December 10, recrossed the Cannon- chee and crossed the Ogeechee at Dillons Ferry, and camped nine miles from Savannhh on the Kings Bridge road; distance, fifteen miles. December 11, remained in the same position. December 12, marched five miles and camped near Kings Bridge. December 13, crossed the Ogeechee River and marched to Fort McAllister; distance, thirteen mmiiles. Three regiments of the brigadeviz, the Sixth Missouri Volun- teers (Lientenamit-Colonel Van Deusen), the Thirtieth Ohio (Captain Brooks), and the One hundred and sixteenth Illinois (Lientenant-Col- onel Maddux)were ordered to make a detour to the right and strike the river below the fort, which was with difficulty accomplished, the troops having to move through a deep marsh, and under the fire of tIme enemy from the fort. At about 5 p. mu. the (letachmnent of this brigade moved forward, in conj auction with similar detachments from S R RVOL XLI Page 114 114 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. the Second and Third Brigades of this division, to the assault of the fort, which was carried in a very few moments and in gallant style. Both officers and men of my command behaved in a manner highly creditable to themselves, and deserve all the praise bestowed upon brave and gallant soldiers. December 14, camped at White Hall plan- tation. December 15 and 1(4, still in caml). December 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21, the brigade was eml)loyed ill (lestroyillg the Gulf railroad. Having burnt every tie and twisted nearly every rail from the Sun- bury River to the Ogeechee, retnrne(l to camp on the evening of the 21st, in which position it remained until January 1, 18(45. A report of the losses during the campaign has already been for- warded I have the honor to be, very respecttully, your obedient servant, THEG. JONES, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. G. LOFLAND, A8st. Adjt. (Jeut., ASCCOUS 1)iCh~i0 a, Fifteenth Army (ioip~. No. 2~i. JYejuort at Col. James & ~. Martin, 0nc handred and cieceuth Illinois Jut- t((fl trq. COW 111 ((11 (liflfJ ASecOn(l JIrigade. - HDns. SECOND 8R1(i.. SECONI) 1)mv.. 13TH ARMY CORPS, Nac((nnah, Ga., January 4, 186:3. CAPVAIN :* Broke camp on the iuoniin~ of the Istih, and entered upon the great campaign of the war. Our line of march was through MeD onough. 1-lilisborough, Clinton, Irwinton. Suannerville, Statesborough, and Eden. Crossed the Cannouchee River on the 9th (lay of December; marched for and struck the (~ulf railroad at ~ p. in., partially destroying about four miles of same; returned and went into camp near the river. On the following morning marched tbr Savannah, and went into camp at cross-roads, nine miles west of same, making distance marched 340 miles. The march was almost void of the usual hardships, and might be termed a pleasure trip. The men were abundantly supplied, and mnamiifested no reluctance in obeying General Shermans order to forage liberally oil the country. Remained in camp until 4 p. m. of the 12th, when we broke camp and marched in the direction of Kings Bridge; bivouacked for the night near same. Broke camp at 6 oclock on the following morning, and marched for Fort McAllister; halted at 12 in.; formed line, composed of One hundred and eleventh Illinois Volunteers an(l Fifty-fourth and Forty-seventh Ohio Volunteers, Thirty-seventh and Fifty-third Ohio Volunteers and Eighty-third Indiana Volunteers being held in reserve. Threw out skirmishers and advanced to within 600 yards of the fort, where the main line was halted and skirmishers pushed forward to within range of the tbrt; remained in this position under fire of the enemys artillery until 3.30 p. in., when Colonel Jones, commanding brigade,being in advance of the line, was severely wounded and Capt. John H. Groce, acting assistant inspector-gemieral, instantly killed, the same fatal ball killing Captain Groce and wounding Colonel For portion of report (here ouhitte(l) relating to operations in North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 746 Page 115 Ouir. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 115 Jones, thereby depriving us of the services of two brave and good offi- cers and casting a gloom over the command. I was ordered to take command and notified to make all necessary preparations for an assault, and at the sound of the bugle to charge the works and take the fort. Forward was sounded at 4.30, and within ten minutes the fort was ours. The conduct of the regiments engaged deserves the highest praise not a falter, but steadily on under a withering fire, until three starry banners waved from the parapets; the garrison surrendered, and Fort McAllister was ours. The Second Brigade has a right to ~laim the honor of planting the first flag upon the fort, the Forty-seventh Ohio and One hundred and eleventh Illinois each in good faith claiming the honor. Each regiment having performed their part so nobly, I for- bear to make particular mention of any. J entered the fort with the advance of my brigade; and being the first brigade conimaiider iii the works, the same was surrendered to me by Major Anderson, and the garrison claimed as our prisoners. No flag was found flying ~u the fort, and Major Anderson pledged me his word that he had none, though I learn that afterward a garrison flag was found hid in the bomb.proof. This surrender opened up communication with our fleet, and the ques- tion of supplies for our arniy was no longer discussed. Casualties in the assault: Killed, 4; wounded, 34. Marched two miles back and went into camp, where we remained until 17th; received orders to march to McIn- tosh, on Gulf railroad, with instructions to destroy same from Wal- thourville to a point two miles east of McIntosh. Reached the road at 11 oclock on the 18th, went into camp, and commenced wqrk. Destroyed nine miles of track, twisting every rail and burning every tie. Broke camp at 5.30 oclock on the morning of the 21st; marched to cross-roads near Kings Bridge; received orders to report with my brigade to Gen- eral Osterhaus, commanding corps; halted to issue rations that had been sent me; resumed the march; crossed the river; received official information while on the march that Savannah was evacuated by the enemy and in possession of our troops. I bivouacked for the night, the campaign being closed. Inclosed you will please find list of casualties. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. S. MARTIN, Capt. GORDON LoFLAND, Colonel, Commanding. Asst. Adjt. Gen., second Dicision, Fifteenth Army Corrs. No. 24. Report of Maj. William 11. ]hIabry, One hundred and eleventh Illinois Infantry, of operations October 4, 1864January 4, 1865. HEADQUARTERS 111TH ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, & u,annah, Ga., January 4, 1865. SIR: In compliance with your circular of the 3d instamit, I have the honor to report as follows as to the part taken by my command during the past campaign: Left camp at East Point, Ga., October 4, 1864, and participated in all the marches, skirmnishes, & c., of the campaign in Northern Georgia. Occupied the left of our line at the skirmnish with Wheelers cavalry near Turkeytown, Ala., October 25, 1864. No loss. Nothing further of interest occurred during this portion of the campaign Page 116 116 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CnA~. LVI. Left Atlanta, Ga., ~ovember 15, 1864, in the expedition through Geor- gia to our new base at Savannah. Nothing worthy of particular mention occurred until our arrival at Fort McAllister, December 13, 1864. Par- ticipated in the successful assault upon the fort, and claim the honor of planting our colors on the works of the fort first. Casualties in regiment were 2 killed and 14 wounded in the assault upon the fort. Remained in the vicinity of Fort McAllister until the fall of Savannah, whemi we moved to within four or five miles of the city; are now encamped one mile from the city on the right of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad. Officers and men did their duty so well during the entire campaign that I can make particular mention of none. Loss during campaign: 2 killed, 14 wounded, 1 missing; total, 17. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. M. MABRY, M~or 111th. Illiuois Lfan try, Commanding. Capt. FRANK M. LEwis, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 2d Dir., 13th Army Corps. No. 25. Beport of Licut. (Jol. George II. Scott, Eighty.third Indiana I~ftmntry, of operations September 5, 1861January 2, 1865. IIDQRS. EIGHTY-THIRD REGIMENT INDIANA VOLUNTEERS, Sacannah, Ga., January 4, 1865. CAPTAIN: In accordance with instructions I submit the following report of the operations of the Eighty-third Regiment Indiana Volun- teers from September 5, 1864, up to the occupation of the city of Savan- nah, to wit: Camped at East Point, Ga., until October 4; marched toward Chat- tanooga in pursuit of the enemy, via Kingston amid Rome, and camped on Little River October 21; distance traveled, 104 miles. Detailed to go to Rome to guard supply train; returned October 25; distance, eighty-two miles. Marched on the 29th via Powder Springs, and camped near Marietta November 5; distance, 104 miles. Regiment was paid here. November 14 [15], took up line of march south, via Hills- borough and Irwinton, toward the coast, meeting with very little opposi- tion. Crossed the Ocmulgee, Oconee, Caminouchee, amid Ogeechee Rivers, and struck the Gulf railroad on the 9th of l)ecember and tore up several miles of the track. Returned and marched to Fort McAllis- ter on the 13th. Remained here a few days and marched out on the Gulf railroad, and assisted in destrQying about nine miles of the track. Returned and crossed the Ogeechee River on the 21st. Enemy evacu- ated the city of Savannah on time night of the 21st [20th]. Remained in camp until January 2, and marched into town; went into camp inside the fortifications. Distance marched since Octqber 4, 1864, 750 miles. The regiment lost I man killed and 2 missing. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. H. SCOTT, Cot ( bent. ., omdg. Eighty-third Regiment In(liana loiunteers. Capt. F. M. LEwIs, Actg. Asst, Adjt. Gen., 24 Brig., 24 Div., 13th Army Corps Page 117 (HAP. LVI.1 THE ~AYANNAH CAMPAIGN. 117 No. 26. .ke,)0)t of Lient. (Jol. Louis ron Illessinqk, Thirtq-seceni/~ Ohio infantry1 of operations Norember 18, 1864January 2, 1865. Hw~Rs. THHITY-8EVENTII REOT. OHIO YET. VOL. JNFTX., ASarannall, Ga., January 3, 1865. History of the Thirty-seventh Regiment Ohio Inflintry Veteran. Volunteers of the late campaign, from November 18, 1864, to Jaun- ary2. 1865: On the 13th day of November, 1864, the regiment marched from Camp Smyrna, Ga., to Atlanta, Ga., a distance of twelve miles, and there having been equipped, marched out of Atlanta on the 15th as a part of the army which, under the command of Major-General Sherman, under- took the great invasion of the State of Georgia, from the northwestern l)art to the southeastern border of said State. The line of march the regiment made was over McDonough, Indian Springs, near which place it crossed the Ocmulgee River, passing through Hillsborough and Clin- ton. At the latter place, November 22, the regiment, with the Fifteenth Michigan Volunteer Infantry, went on picket on the road leading to Macon, from where the enemys cavalry tried to enter Clinton, and cut oft~ the train of the division. The regiment went into line of battle, and the enemy was forced to retreat by our advancing skirmish line. On the 23d the regiment remained near Clinton, covering the rear of the division, and marched on the same day toward Griswold, and joined its brigade and division near said place, after having crossed the Geor- gia Central Railroad; thence passed through Irwinton and marched to the Oconee River, which it crossed on the 26th of November, when it resumed its march through the swamps and arrived at Summervihle on the 30th. The regiment, with the brigade, continued its march toward the sea-coast through the low and swampy country of Georgia, atid having passed Emanuel and Bulloch Counties of said State, on the right (southwest) side of Ogeechee River, it crossed the Cannouchee River on the 9th of December, marched to the Savannah and Gulf Rail- road, aiid destroyed the same, in connection with the other regiments of the Second Brigade, for about five miles. Having returned the same day to the Cannouchee River, it crossed the same the next day, and also the Ogeechee River, the latter near the Ogeechee Canal, then marched tt)war(I Savannah, within nine miles of which the regiment bivouacked. On the 12th the regiment returned with the brigade and division to the Ogeechee River, crossed it at Kings Bridge on the 13th, and advanced on Fort McAllister, which was invested and carried by assault. The regiment bivouacked imear the fort until December 17, when it marched with the brigade to McIntosh, thirty miles southwest of Savannah, on the Savannah and Gulf Railroad, which was reached on the 18th, and the regiment being engaged in destroying the railroad completely, so that nothing was left but the twisted iromi rails, until the night of the 20th. On the 21st the regiment returned to the Ogeechee River and crossed it at Kings Bridge, in the nicantimne Savanmmah being evacuated by the enemy. The regiment went in bivouac eleven miles from Savannah, and marched on the 29th to within Ibur miles of Savannah, amid went into camp on the southwest side of Savannah, at the Gulf railroad, on the 2d day of January, 1865. Distance marched from Atlanta INovemnber 15, 1864, to January 2, 1865, 374 miles. L. VON BLESSINGH, Lient. (lol., (Jomdq. Thi ty~serentk Ohio Teteran Vol. Infantry Page 118 renA?. TNT. 118 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. No. 27. lieport ~ Col. A ugustas C. Parry, Forty-sereuth Ohio Infantry, of ope)Yltiofls Ao rem ber 15, 1861January 2, 1865. HDQRS. FORTY-SEVENTH REGT. OHIO VET. VOL. JNFTY., ~Sarannah, Ga., Januarq 4, 1SG:. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Forty-seventh Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry in the late expedition through the State of Georgia: In accordance with orders from superior headquarters, I started with the regiment from camp near Atlanta, Ga., on the 15th day of Novem- ber, 1864, having received, a few days previous, about 400 drafted men and substitutes, who performed their duties in the subsequent cam- ~)aigu to my entire satisfaction, and better than I had reason to expect. During the whole march nothing remarkable occurred in which the regiment bore a conspicuous part until the morning of the 13th of l)ecember, when the division was ordered to march to and assault Fort McAllister, on the Ogeechee River. This day my regiment had the a(lvance, and in the afternoon, when orders for the assault were giveii, we had the honor of~planting the first Stars and Stripes on the parapet of the doomed fort. Four days afterward we particil)ated in the destrac- tiori of the Savannah, Gulf, and Albany Railroad. Retnrned from said expedition on the afternoon of the 21st, and entered the suburbs of the city of Savannah on the 2d of January, 1865. Inclosed I append a list of casualties during the calupaign.* I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUG. C. PARRY, Colonel, Coinndg. Porty-sereuth Regt. Ohio Vet. Vol. Infantry. Capt. FRANK M. LEWIS, Acting Assistant A (I) utant- General, ASCCOfl(l I~riga4e. No. 28. Report of Maj. George F. JmTili, F~flp~faurth 0/rio Infantry. HDQRS. FIFTY-FOURTH REOT. 01110 VET. VOL. INFANTRY, na/i (Ia ASaran , ., January 4, iSGa. SIR: In obedience to orders, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Fifty-fourth Ohio in the late campaign through Georgia: The Fifty-fourth Ohio joined the brigade from detached service at White Hall, near Atlanta, on the night of November 14. Received orders same evening to be prepare(l to move next morning (15th) at daylight. Left White Hall about S a. in.; marched steadily forward, unmolested by the enemy. On the 16th passed through Mcl)onough; crossed Ocnnilgee River at Ocmnulgee Mills l)ecember 19; 20th, marched through Hihisborough; passe(l Clinton 21st, and struck the Macon and Augusta Railroad on 22d. 23d, continued march south. 24th, camped iiear Irwinton. 25th, passed through Irwinton; enemy in our front. 26th, crossed Oconee River at Ferry. * Shows 1 man killed, and 1 officer and 15 men wounded. Page 119 C!!AP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 119 I)ecember 4, arrived at Statesborough. Deccnibcr 5, leave Statesbor- ough and march south. I)ecember 9, crossed Cannonchee River and struck the Gulf railroad, which we destroyed for a distance of four miles. 10th, recrossed Cannouchee River and marched to Ogeechee River, which we crossed, and camped eleven miles from Savannah. 13th, crossed Ogeechee River at Kings Bridge, and marched on Fort Mc- Allister, which was in the possession of the rebels and mounting twenty-two heavy guns. Attack was made at 4p. in., and after a short but stubborn resistance the fort was carried by storm. In this action the Fifty-fourth Ohio lost 5 men wounded, 2 of whom have since died of their wounds. Captain Neff, Company H, received a severe wound in right leg. The subjoined is a list of the casualties of the Fifty-fourth in the late campaign.* I have the honor to be, very respectfully, GEG. F. KILL, Major, Commanding. Capt. F. M. LEwIs, Acting A ssistami t A (1 jutan I- ~cn eral, & con d Brigade. No. 29. Reports Of (101. John if. Olirer, Pinfteenth Michigan Jnfantry, command inq Third Dvi gade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIG.. SECOM~ I)iv., 15iii ARMY CORPS, Saran nab, Ga., January 6, 18G~X SiR: I have the honor to report the following detail of operations of this brigade in the campaign so gloriously concluded by the cal)tllre of Fort McAllister and surrender of Savannah: On the 15th of November, 1864, we left White hail at 10 a. in., and marched in a southerly direction, passing through h~ongh ~nd Ready; camped near Tuckers cabin, Henry County, at 5 p. in., having marched thurteen miles. On the 16th left camp at 6 a. in., passing through McDonongh. rfwo miles south of town we reached camp at 5 p. in.; distance marched, sixteen miles. 17th, imiarched lioni 3.30 p. in. until 12.30 night. The troops marched on the left side of the road, while the wagon train an(l artillery took the road. (amped at Liberty Church, having marched seventeen miles. 18th reuimed our march at $ a. in.; encamped at Indian Springs at I p. in.; distance marched, six miles and a half 19th, left camp at 3 a. in.; marched to the Ocinulgee River and crosse(l on Iontoomm l)ridge; halted for the night near Hillsborough, arrriving in camp at 4.30; distance marched, tmftcen miles. 20th, marched at 10 a. in., passing through Ilillsborongh and encamped five miles south of town, arriving at 7 p. in.; distance marched, twelve miles. 21st, resume(I march at t a. in.; raimied all day; roads iii a terrible con- dition; passed through the town of Clinton and camped within nine miles of Macon distance marched, thirteen miles. Left Fifteenth Michigan Veteran \olunteer Infantry at Clinton to guard roa(ls leading to Macon until the trains had passed. About 4 p. in. they had a sharp skirmish with Breckinridges l)rigade of cavalry, amid repulsed them, with a loss of two men wounded. On the 22d broke camp at 8 a. in.; Shows 2 men killed, and 1 officer and 4 men wonnded Page 120 120 OPERATIONS IN S. C., (IA., ANI) FLA. [(~I1AP. LVI. marched in a southeasterly course, crossiug the Macon and Augusta Railroad, which had been destroyed by our troops, aud encamped on the Gordon road. The enemy attacked the First Division, and were repulsed. Fifteenth Michigan Veteran Volunteer Infantry reported at Op. m. from Clinton. Marched this day ten miles. 23d, marched at 9 a. m. iu the direction of Gordon by a circuitous route, reaching camp at 12 in.; took position and fortified; marched live miles. 24th, left calup at 9 a. in., arriving at Irwiuton at 3 p. in.; marched five miles. 25th, resumed our march to the Oconee River, passing through the town of Irwiuton, arriving at the river at 4 p. m. The enemy, being posted on the opposite bank, prevented our crossing. Artillery was placed in position aud opened on their works. The Ninetieth Illinois and Ninety- ninth indiana Volunteers were detailed to picket the river. The Seven- teenth Army Corps joined us at this point. The Fourth Division and pontoon train also arrived. Distance marched, twelve miles. 26th, the enemy evacuated the opposite bank of the Oconee at 12 oclock (night). At 6 p. m. crossed the river, marched two miles, and eucamped. 27th, marched in a northeasterly course and encamped at Irwins Cross-Roads at 12 in.; distance marched, eight miles. 28th, resumed march and en- camped; distance, fifteen miles. 29th, marched eighteen miles; roads in a terrible condition on account of rain. 30th, marched fifteen miles; had to corduroy and bridge the roads continually. On the 1st of December left camp at 7 a. in., passing through Can- nonchee Post-Office, and encamped at the junction of the Jones Ferry and old Savannah roads, arriving at 5 p. in.; marched fourteen miles. 2d, at 8 a. in. marched on the Savannah road, crossing Sculls Creek, and encamped in Bulloch County; distance, ten miles. 3d, marched and encamped on Lotts Creek; distance, five miles. 4th, at 8 a. m. re~sumed march in a southerly course. At 3 p. m. some mounted foragers of the division were attacked by some 600 cavalry near Statesborough, and driven back, until the enemy encountered the Seventieth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, who were in advance as guard for pioneers corduroying roads. The Seventieth Ohio gave them one volley, after which the rebels hastily retreated, leaving 6 killed and 1 wounded in our hands. Our loss was slight. We encamped at Statesborough. Distance marched, fourteen miles. 5th, at 9 a. inn. marched in an easterly direction, amid encamped at 6 p. in.; distance marched, thirteen miles. 6th, I was ordered to march to Jenks Bridge and secure the crossing. Left camp between 6 and 7 a. in., leaving all my trains but four ambulances, two wagon-loads of ammunition, and the tool wagon. Upon arriving at the river found the bridge destroyed. The Fifteenth Michigan and Seventeenth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry took position omi the river-bank; the Forty-eighth Illinois and Ninetieth Illinois and Ninety-ninth Indiana Volunteers were put in position faced to the rear, with a section of artillery from the Third Division omi a hill back of the river half a mile. Distance marched, fifteen miles. Stacked arms and went into camp 12 mu. The vigor of the troops and their earnest effort to reach the river, secure the bridge, amid strike the enemys cavalry enabled us to make this march with astonishing quick- ness. When we arrived at the camp of the Third Division, which was one mile and a half nearer Jenks Bridge than our camp, we waited one hour and a half at least for the artillery, which had not been miotified that they were to accompany the expedition. This delay in the outset, and some skirmishing on the way, left the actual muarching time less than four hours. 7th, we were ordered to the Cannouchee River to hold and save the bridge across the river if possible. We innet the enemy Page 121 (HAP. Lvi.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 121 1)ickets on Black Creek. Skirmishing commenced and continued for twelve miles, until our mounted force arrived at the bridge, which they found in dames. The officers and men of the command seemed deter- mined to-day to strike the enemys cavalry, who had some twenty-three prisoners whom they fed on sorghum stalks. At Black Creek the ob- structions in the ford were removed, so that our ambulances and ammunition wagons crossed the ford before the troops could get across on the stringers of the still burning bridge. The enemy were pushed so hard that they could not destroy the bridge across Mill Creek at all. At one place, near Bryan County Court-House, the men waded in four ranks through a swamp 300 yards across up to their waists in water. We captured two prisoners and five horses. The mounted force, with one regiment of infantry, remained at the river, and the rest of the brigade encamped at Eden (Bryan County Court-House). Distaiice marched, twenty miles. Lieutenant-Colonel Berkey, Ninety-ninth In- diana Yolnnteers, who was in command of the mounted force of the bri- gade (sixty men), conducted the operations of the advance with great skill and perseverance. 8th, at daylight enemy opened with artillery and shelled the woods fiercely, hurting no one; skirmished with them all day. Sent a detachment of the mounted men to effect a crossing up the river, which they were unable to do. The skirmishing across the river was kept up so fiercely that the enemy in two nights and a day could not destroy the bridges across the two lagoons, which were 600 feet or more across. If they had been destroyed we could not have reached the Gulf railroad or saved any portion of Kings Bridge without mak- ing a march of thirty miles. - The behavior of the officers and men dur. ing this expedition was highly praiseworthy. We have no skulkers. The balance of the division and pontoon train joined us here and commenced to put in artillery during the night. 9th, the enemy left during the night, but before leaving opened a brisk fire of artillery and musketry. At daylight was ordered to secure and hold Kings Bridge, across the Ogeechee. I at once conimeuced to cross my brigade over the Cannouchmee, by ferrying thent in pontoon-boats and swimming the horses. It took us nearly two hours to cross. Pushed rapidly forward for eight miles to Kings Bridge, but were unable to save but part of it. We then returned to Ways Statiou to camp, leaving two companies of Forty-eighth Illinois Volunteers to guard the crossing and prevent further destruction of the bridge. We received orders to destroy all trestles on tIme railroad; also time railroad bridge across the Ogeechee. We destroyed fourteen trestles, varying from 30 to 150 yards long, and the Gulf railroad bridge across the Ogeechee, a magnificent bridge 500 yards long; took 18 prisommers; fin- ished our work at 9.30 p. m. 10th, left Ways Station at 5 a. inn; re- turned to the Cannouchee River, recrossed, and marched to the Ogeechee River, and crossed at Dillons Ferry, and encamped within ten miles of Savannah; distance marched, eighteen miles. 11th and 12th, rested in camp. 13th, left camp and muarched, crossing the Ogee- chee on Kings Bridge, to within about one mile of Fort McAllister and formed. The Third Brigade formed the center of division line, the Ninetieth Illinois on the right, Forty-eighth Illinois in the center, and Seventieth Ohio on the left. The Fifteenth Michigan and Ninety-ninth Indiana were in reserve. Advanced half a mile and halted until 5 p. m. to enable other troops to get in position, when the order was given to advance and take the fort. The distance fromn our line to the fort was about 700 yards through open fields. The taking of this fort was so cheerfully and gallantly done by the troops of this brigade tha Page 122 122 OPERATIONS TN ~. e., GA., AND FLA. fCIIAP. tNt. there is hardly any way to do them full justice. The conduct of Cap- taut Grimes, Forty-eighth Illinois Volunteers, commanding skirmish line. in silencing two of the 10-inch guns bearing ou our front, by his sliarl)shooterM, and in his hand-to-hand fight with Captain Clinch, ought to be noticed in general orders. Captain Smith, of the same regiment, who rejoined us on the 27th of November, 1864, after escaping from Columbia, S. C., was the first man in the fort, and was killed inside of it. ile was a gallant officer. The flag of the Seventieth Ohio was the first on the fort, though the gallant vetei-ans of the Forty-eighth and Ninetieth Illinois were there with them almost at the same time. Both color bearers of the Forty-eighth were killed with torpedoes. The color bearer of the Seventieth Ohio was also killed just as lie handed the flag to a comrade when climbing ovet- the abatis. The men of this command under fire cannot be sm-passed. The only order I gave them was that when the forward was sounded to march steadily until they reached our skirmishers and theim go iii. The action lasted twelve minutes. Our loss was 76 officers and men killed and wounded. The results of this action were most important; our corn- mnunications were at once fully established. Captures in the fort by division were 24 guns, about 200 prisoners, medical stores, quarter- masters stores, a large quantity of ordnance stores, ammunition, and small-arms. A garrison flag was taken by Captain Nelson, of my staff; amid sent to your headquarters. On the 14th the Seventieth Ohio Vol- miuteers, on account of the conspicuous part takemi by them in time cap- ture of the fort yesterday, was ordered to garrison it. 17th, left camp with three regimentsNinety-ninth Indiana, Forty-eighth Illinois, and Fifteenth Michigan Volunteersfor the Gulf railroad. Returned on the 21st, havino marched forty miles and (lestroyed seven miiiles of the road, burning every tie and twisting every rail. On the morning of the 22d our troops entered Savanmmah. The Third Brigade of this division con- sists of tI te Fifteenth Michigan Veteran Volunteer Infantry, Lieutenant- Colonel tlubhin son commanding; Ninetieth Illinois \olnnteei-s, Lieu- tenant-Colomiel Stuart commanding; Seventieth Ohio Veteran Volun- teer Iimfiintry, )iAentenant-Colonel Philips commandimmg; Ninety-ninth Indiana Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Berkey conimal (un g; amid Forty-eighth Illinois Veteran Volumiteer Infantry, Major Adams coni- mnan(ling. 1 know of no troops in our army that ~iirpass themn imi heroism amid self- devotionbut few, very few, equal them. To my staff I have been greatly indebted foi- successCaptaimi La Point, actimig assistant adjutant-general; Captain Nd 5O11~ actiiig assist- ant inspector-general; Lieutenant Brown, acting aide 41 e-camnl). I thank them all sincerely for the mnanner in which they lmax-e (lisehal-ge(l their (hmities. Lieut. John Doyle, acting assistant quartermaster of this bri- gade, (leserves special mention. His discharge of (luty has been l)erfect, and I would especially recomumend his promnotiomi. To yourself and other officers of the division st all I offer my hearty thanks for the courtesy and for the many acts which have shown how well amid thoroughly you have striven for the success of all in this campaign. I ani. sir, respectfully. your obedient sem-vant. ;JOiIN M. OLIVER, (o loiwi, Coin in ending. Capt. G. LOFLAND. Asst. Adjt. Gen., ANCCOfl(l I)irision, F?tteCfltIi A rmy Corps Page 123 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 123 lln~ns. Tiiwn RRiG~, SECOYD Div., 15TH ARMY CORPs, AVlrafln((lt, Ga., January 4, 1865. SIR: I have the honor to report the following list of casualties in this brigade from November 151 1864, up to December 22, 1864: (onimand. C ~1j I 15th Michigan veteran volunteer In fantry. 70th Ohio veteran volunteer Infantry 7 7 1 85 80 16 48th Illinois Veteran volunteer In I 6 7 17 17 fantry. 90th Illinois volunteers 3 3 14 14~ 99th Indiana volunteers - 3 Killed. Wounded. Missing be I H 4 16 59 25 17 5 Total 1 16 17 1: 71 72 21 Ii 110 Ilespeettully. yoi~r obedient servailt, [(apt. C-. LOFLANTh] JOhN M. OLIVER, (olon H, Coin ma ndntq. No. 3~. Report of Briq. Gem John F. $lniih, U. AS. Army, corn mandinq Third Dirision. HDQRS. THIRn I )IvlsloN. FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, & urannah, Ga., January ?, 1865. MAJOR: I have tile honor to submit the following report of my (0111- mand during tile campaign from Atlanta to this place: Ill compliallce with orders from Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, command- jug the army, I marched from Cartersville, Ga., on the 12th day of November, 1864. Reported at headquarters Fifteenth Army Corps, at White Hall, near Atlanta, on the 14th of November, at 11 a. in. The necessary clothing and caml) and garrison equipage iii stoic tor us at Atlanta were issued, an(l with twenty (lays rations and 23() rounds of ammunition per man, was rea(ly to move tile same day. The command illoved at 11 a. in. on the 15th of Noveniber an(l marched, via Rough and Ready, Stockbridge, McDonough, Jackson, crossing the Ocmulgec River at Seven Islailds, Ilillsborongh and Clinton, to Gordon, at which l)oint n~y command effectually destroyed four miles of the railroad alI(l about 500 yards of the trestle bridge three miles west of Gordon; thence by way of Irwinton, crossing the Oconee River at Balls Ferry, four miles below tac railroa(l bridge, Irwins Cross-Roads, Summervihle Statesborough, crossing the Ogeechice River at Jeiiks Bridge; thence marching between the Lit-tie and Big Ogeechee Rivers to Bethel Church, on the Savannah Canal. On the 10th of i)ece:nber I left the supply train in camp, guarded by one regiment of infantry, al1(l move(i upon the south side of the canal to a point about four miles aild a half from Savannah, where the enemy were discovered in position with a battery, covering a small road. Skirmishers were at once deployed, and th Page 124 124 ()PERATION~ IN S. C., GA., AND ILA. [(HAP. LVI. First Brigade, Col. J. B. MeCown conhluan(Ling, promptly formed in line; the Second Brigade, Bvt. Brig. Gen. (~. B. Raum commanding, was formed on the right of the First Brigade. These dispositions having been made, it was found impossible for the skirmishers to advance, owing to the low, marshy ground in frofit having been overfio~ved from the canal to the depth of from four to six feet, and the road, scarcely ten feet wide, being amply protected by the enemys guns. During the night a work was thrown up, and three guns of Battery B, First Michi- gan Artillery, Captain Arndt commanding. were placed in position, which opem~ed upon the enemys guns about daylight on the morning of the 11th of I)eceniber. 1 was ordered to move to the right at S a. in. the same morning, when the guns and the line were withdrawn, leaving the skirmishers in position. A brisk fire was kept up by them until the evening of the 11th, when they were relieved by Brig. Geim. G. A. Smith, commanding Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Con )5. The casualties on the 10th and 11th at this place were as follows: Commissioned officersslightly woum Idled. 2. Enlisted nemikilled. 1; slightly wounded, 4; severely wounded. 1. At 9 p. in. December 11 followed the First 1)ivision to the right and camped at Andersons plantation, and on the 12th took up a position near Millers Station (No. 1) on the Gulf railroad. Owing to the width of the marsh and the Little Ogeechee River, an advamice was imprac- ticable. An outpost was stationed at the abutment of the railroad bridge, the only available ground on my frond. At this l)lace one maii was killed. On the 19th a work was commenced on the railroad for three guns. It was not completed, however, when the enemy evacu- ated Savannah. On the morning of the 21st the command moved into Savannah. camping in the suburbs between the Gulf railroad and Shell road. The conduct of the officers and soldiers of this division is worthy of the highest commendationalways cheerful and complying strictly with all orders, which mnade the march a very pleasant one. I take pleasure in reporting that not a single man was lost by straggling. The com- manding officers of brigades and regimnents have my thanks for their co-operation. The weather duriiig the march was pleasant, and sul)plies of fowls, pigs, and sweet potatoes abundant, with plenty of forage for the ani- mals. During the march this command cut about ten miles of road through the woods, and made 5,010 yards of corduroy, not imicluding mnany places where rails were convenient and could be thrown down without detaining the column. A few prisoners were captured, and 800 bales of cotton destroyeh. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. E. SMITH, Brigadier- ~CflHOl. Maj. M. ~XO0DHULL, A ssista~ t A d~utant- ~enenul, Fifteenth Iti flU, Corps. A J)DEYDA. CIRcuLAR.] HDQRS. THIRD Div., FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Mraunak, (Ia., J)ecernber 25, 1864. The general comman(hing announces with pride and pleasure that the division was highly complimented by Major-General Sherman for their soldierly bearing and the good comidition of their arms. The Fifty Page 125 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 125 ninth Indiana and Sixty-third Illinois I~egiiiients were noticed particu- larly for their good marching. The general would also take this occa- sion to thank the officers and soldiers for their prompt execution and compliance with all orders and the fact that we have lost but one man by straggling during a march of 350 iidles is evidence of the good condnct of the command, for which every officer and soldier should be 1)roud, and none more so than the general counnanding. By order of Brig. Gen. John E. Smith: S. M. BUDLONG, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 31. Report of Brig. Gen. John 21L Gorse, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Division. HDQRS. FOURTH DIVISION, FIFTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 1J, 1& k. MAJOR: * The comniand by consecutive marches passed through Kingston, Allatoona, and Marietta, and arrived at Atlanta oii the morning of the 15th [November], just as the Fifteenth Corps debouched from the town. Twenty days supplies were loaded on the trains, and the comnmaimd moved to overtake the corps, and encamped near East Point on the itight of the 15th. During the 16th and 17th the column was on the road, and bivouacked near Jackson, G a., omi the 18th. On the night of the 18th the division was put in motion and marched until 10 a. in. of the 19th, whemi it arrived at the Ocmulgee Mills, where it lay umitil the entire corps and corps trains had crossed. At noon of the 20th, by direction of the major-general conimamiding time corps, the division crossed the river. The pontoons were taken up and the train I)laced under my charge. From the Ocmnulgee to Gordoii we had continuous wet weather and heavy roads. The coinmi~and,in cunibered by the pon- toon traimi, about 300 wagons belonging to the cavalry division, and a drove of 3,000 head of cattle, struggled through the nmud and swamps, making fair l)rogress, and arriving at Gordon, where we for the first time joined our corps after leaving the Gemulgee River. Here we were relieved of the additional trains, and after one days rest at Gordon took up our line of march, arriving at the right bank of the Oconee, at Balls Ferry, November 26 laid, the division in at 10 a. in. The pontoons being speedily crossed advance of the corps and marched to Irwins Cross-Roads, where we encamped durimg the 27th. Jim accordance with orders from corps headquarters, two brigades (Ilices and Huributs) were sent to the Georgia Central Railroad, at No. 13, to destroy the road between that point and the Oconee River. Six miles were eftectually destroyed on the 27th, an(l the division ummited again at a point about twelve miles southeast of Wrightsville. Time march from here to the point at which we crossed the Ogeechee was through a country well watered, sparsely inhabited, furnishing, however, by means of extensive foraging parties, abundance of vegetables and stock. 0mm the 3d of I)ecember we camped on Sculls Creek, iiear No. 7, to which point Rices brigade was sent to destroy time railroad, while L~or I)o1tion of report (here omitted) relating to ol)ermutiOim~ hi North Georgia. see Vol. XXXIX, Part I. p. 767 Page 126 126 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL Adams brigade was so disposed as to cover the working party and prevent any sndden dash of cavalry from driving them away. On the 4th the command was again united and pnt in motion, the head of the cohinin directed toward Jenks Biidge over the Ogeechee, where the Savannah road crosses and strikes the Georgia Central Railroad. Abont noon of December 7 the coinmnaiid arrived on the right bank of the Ogeechee River, at the bridge crossing to Blooniingdale, or Station No. 2, on the Savannah and Macomi Railroad. The l)ridge having been destroyed by the enemy on the approach of onr torces, was replaced by a l)ontoon bridge. A force froiii the Second I)ivision thrown across was skirmishing (fuite liely on the arrival ot the head of my column. By direction of Major-General Osterhans Icrossed the leading brigade (Rices), which gradually cleare(l the woods, driving the rebels back across an opeii field into l)arrica(les an(L rail works they had thrown up for their protectioli, necessitating the deployment of two regiments (the Second and Seventh Iowa Infantry), which, gallantly charging across the broken fields, eimtered the rebel works, driving them, cap- turing, killing, aiid wounding about 25. Our loss was 2 killed and 4 wounded. Rices brigade, re-enforced by Williamsons brigade, of the First Division, was then directed to hold the station amid remain on the east side of the Ogeechee the night of the 7th. while the rest of the division lay with the corps omi the west bank of the river. The division was again detached flomn the corps on the $th, and moved with its transportation to Station No. 2, i3loomiiigdale. rrhe Seventeenth Corps was distant imi our rear about thirteen miles, separated from us by the Little Ogeechee River; the Fifteenth Corps ont of supporting distance by noon on the west side of the Ogeechee proper. Leaving the transportation of the division at the station in charge of William- sons brigade, which was to remain until relieved by the Seventeenth Corps, the head of the column was directed on f lie road leading to Dil- lomis Bridge across the Ogeechee, near the mouth of the canal. The first line of works, distant from Bloomningd ale about two miles, we fbund evacuated. The Seventh Illinois Mounted infimmitry was thrown out as an advanced guard, ammd during the day ran into the enemy several times, bringing in five prisoners, among them one conmmissioned officer. Our flanks were well protected by tIme two rivers; the ri(lge between fur- nished a fine road, occasionally blockaded, not sufficiently serious, how- ever, to occasion much detention. The head of the columnn arrived at the canal about noon, and discovemed the bridge still in flames. A new one was speedily constructed by the pioneer corps, and a portiomm of the Third Brigade crossed and threw up a t~te-de-pont, and the Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry moved out to recoiimmoiter time enemys position. From the citizens we ascertained that a force of time enemy had erected works at the jumiction of the Dilloims Bridge road with the Kings Bridge and Savannah road. The numbers were variously estimated from 1,00() to 5,000. Under the circumstances, our great distamice from any sul)- porting columns, the utter destruction of Dillons Bridge over the Ogee- chee, and the absence of pontoons, General Howard deemed it not advisable for me to push any farther. The comumnand was then place(1 in camp on the north bamik of the canal, and immtrenched itself for the night. No communication could be effected till late that evening with that por- tion of the Fifteenth Corps that had moved down the right bank of the Ogeechee. Occasionally we heard their artillery, and learned later that General Osterhaus was forcing a crossing over the Cannouchee. TIme reconnaissance of the mounted force (leveloped the enemy in fbrce with artillery at the cross-voads above designated, about three miles from our camp Page 127 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 127 The transportation arrived during the night of the 8th under guard from the First Brigade, and with two brigades (Adams and Rices) and Brunners battery we moved out about 9 a. m. on the 9th to obtain possession of the cross-roads and try to open communication with the rest of the corps by way of Kings Bridge. The trains, with the excep- tion of a few wagons for ordnance, were left with the Third Brigade at the canal. The two l)riga(les lIlove(l out, Adams in advance, covered by aline of skirmishers from the Sixty-sixth Illinois Volunteers, and the flanks well prote~tcd by the Sevei~tli Illinois Mounted Infantry. The battery niovc(l in rear of Adams, tWiowed closely by Rice in column. Not until the l)ickets were driven in and the skirmishers quite warmly engaged (lid Adams deploy his reginiciits to their support. The demise nhldergr( inwth ren (lered the ii moveinem ts iii Jim me exceedingly difficult, and the advance of the hue SOOII (leveloped time artillery of time enemy, omme Section of which swet)t the road on which we were advancing. The reserves were massed on either si(le where open space could be secured, and one section of artillery under Lientemuant Brunner l)ulslled as umear the enciux- as the blockaded condition of the road would 1)erlnit. It ~~-as iln1)Ossible to see through the dense woods, amid the emmemvs artillery swept time road so as to reminder it untenable, COfli- pelling Bruimer to play on their works from a field separated from their l)osition by a dense forest an(l to fire altogether by the sound of their guns. At this tune nmtormatiomm was broumght that a column of the enemy was moving on mu)- right, and I pushed Rice, with two regiments. toward the Kings Bridge road amid ordered Adamims to push on with vi or. The increased vo1~eys of musketry aimd suddemi cessation of the emmemys artillery, with time significant yelling of our mneum, imidicated that the assault was in ~)Iogress, and before I could veach the center, or Rice could mmmake the road, our troops were iii the enemnys works with (Juite a squad of 1)1-isoners and one piece of artiller)- as a trophy. The enenuy were pursued for four miles, amid the Seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry swung around oii Adams right, struck for the Gulf railroad, arriviiig there in time to tear up a rail and capture a locomotive and eighteen cars, with about forty prisoners. The brigade left at the canal with the supply and ordnance trains was then brought up, and before (lark, by order of General Howard, we went into canip near the main branch of the Little Ogeechee River, with a good hue of defense. Kings Bridge ~vas found in ruins. By means of a boat communication was opened with General Osterhaus, who had crossed time Cannouchee with a portion of the First and Second Divisions and struck the Gulf railroad west of the Ogeechee. The Third Division had arrived at the canal, near Dillons Bridge, with a pontoon traimi, amid we received infor- nmatioui that the pontoon could be throw-n across the Ogeechee early, placing again the Fifteenth Corps in chose communication. Time morning of the 10th General Osterhaus went with the advanced bulgade, commanded by Colonel llurlbut, until we struck the north branch of the Little Ogeechee, where we foummd the enemy apparently in heavy force and so separated from us by the swamps and rice fields as to reminder an assault impracticable till the arrival of re-enforcements. The artillery of the main fort occupied by the eneum)- mounted guns of so munch larger caliber than our light field pieces as to induce the gen- eu-al to order up a battery of 20-pounder Parrotts before opening. The skirmni8hers were pushed as close as mud and water would permit, amm(l thuns we lay until the subsequent clay: Colonel Hurlbuts brigade in himue, covered by skirmishers; Rices brigade iii (Olnmun in reserve, and beyond range of the enemys ordnance. The Second Brigade, ColoHe Page 128 128 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Adams commanding, was sent to the railroad on our right to create a diversion and also effect a crossing between the Gulf railroad bridge and a point known as the Hermitage, nearer the coast. On the 14th the division was united and placed in position near the forks of the Little Ogeechee, Woods division on our left, John E. Smith on our right. No effort was made to assault the enemys lines, which were separated froni ours by the north branch of the Little Ogeechee and the rice swamps that abound on either bank of that stream. On the night of the 19th I obtained permission to attempt a lodgment on the other side, which was successfully made by Lient. William Pittman, Eighty- first Ohio Infantry, with ten men who volunteered for the purpose. Having demonstrated the practicability of crossing a column I desired to push a sufficient force over during the night, and move the division over the following day and assault the enemy. The general command- ing, deeming it not expedient, directed me to withdraw my men, which was done without any casualties or without awakening the suspicions of the enemy as to what we were doing. On the morning of the 21st Savannah was found to be evacuated by the enemy, and in accordance with orders I moved my division into the city and went into position on the east side of Savannah, my left resting on the river, my right occupying Fort Brown. The march was in some respects an arduous one, [but] proved on the whole to have been pleasant and even bene- ficial to the command. The health of the nien was never better nor were they ever in better spirits or condition than when they took pos- session of Savannah. On reference to memoranda I find that we have obtained on the march, beyond what was necessary for daily issue, 1,000 head of cattle, about 300 head of horses and mules that nearly seven miles of road were corduroyed and thirty bridges built by the pioneer corps of this division. The list of casualties is exceedingly small. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. M. CORSE, Brigadier- General. Maj. MAx. WOODHULL, Assistant Adjutant- General, F~fteenth Army Corps. No. 32. Report qf Brig. Gen. Elliott W. Rice, U. AS. Army, commanding First Brigade. IIDQRS. FIRsT BRIG., Fo URTH Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Saran nah, Ga., December 29, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the fkAlowing as my report of the recent campaign which resulted in the capture ot the city of Savannah, as 1)articipated in by the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps: In compliance with orders from headquarters Fourth Division, Fif- teenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. J. M. Corse commanding, the brioade destroyed its camp in connection with all property, public and private, for which transportation was not furnished, and left the city of Rome, Ga., at 8 a. in. on the 11th day of November, 1864. From thence Page 129 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 129 marched the brigade, via Kingston, Allatoona, Big Shanty, Marietta, and Turners Ferry, to the City of Atlanta. Here I supplied my com- mand with shelter-tents and clothing. This having been hastily done I left the city on the 15th day of November, it being also the date of my arrival, having joined my brigade with the grand army of General Sherman. We passed through Rough and Ready, McDonough, and Jackson, crossing the Ocmulgee River at Seven Islands on the evening of the 19th and morning of tl~e 20th. Here the division took charge of the pontoon train, moving steadily and slowly along over or rather through roads made almost impassable by the incessant rains. Having passed through the towns of Monticello, Ililisborough, and Clinton, the fair weather had greatly improved the roads, and after we had beeu relieved of the pontoons we moved southward rapidly. We crossed the Georgia Central Railroad at Gordon, and marched on a road south of and parallel to the railroad through the town of Irwinton. Crossing the Oconee River at Balls Ferry, we camped at Irwins Cross-Roads during the night. On the morning of November 22 we struck the Georgia Central Rail- road at mile-post 138, and from thence we effectually destroyed the road by burning the ties, bending, twisting, and breaking the rails as far as Station 13, a distance of three or more miles. Moving again on the road south of and parallel to the~ railroad, we crossed the Ogee- chee River, and once more made an eft~ctual destruction of three miles of the same road to Station No. 7. We recrossed the river and struck it again after a long march at a point south of Station No. 2. Here the enemy resisted the crossing, but were easily forced back by the Second Iowa Infantry, which I had deployed as skirmishers, supl)orted by the Seventh Iowa infantry. The country for nearly three-quarters of a mile was nearly waist deep with water in the swamps and lagoons, through which the troops wa(led with a good will, driving the enemy into a small rail-work which they had hastily constructed. I endeav- ored to turn their position and gain the rear of their defenses by throw- nig a portion of the Secoiid low-a to their left under cover of a thick woods in that direction, but the troops in their front and on their left could not be held back. They dashed forward with an unparalleled impetuosity, right over the rail-works, capturing 20 pL-isoners, killing 2, and woundii?g 4 men. The balance of the rebel force rushed to the railroad, and taking the cars moved oft in the direction of Savannah. In this skirmish the Second Iowa Infantry lost 2 men killed and 2 wounded, and the Seventh Iowa Infantry 2 men wounded. The iii ght after the skirmish I threw up a line of works near Station No. 2. On the following morning we took the road north of the Ogeechice River, moved down that stream, crossed the canal and supported the Third Brigade in the skirmish for Kings Bridge Cross-Roads on the 9th day of December,1864. On the 10th day of December the enemywas found occu- pying a strong position on the north side of the Little Ogeechee River. Here the troops were placed in position. My brigade was assigned the right of the line, which rested on the Anderson plantation one mnile west of where the Gulf railroad crosses the Little Ogeechee River. Here we skirmished slightly with the enemy and mnade demonstrations and reconnaissances until the 21st day of December, when, Savannah being evacuated by the enemy, the brigade marched into the city. Officers and soldiers conducted themselves remam-kably well during the march. Dwelling honses were not entered by soldiers of this bri- gade; citizens were not molested in their persons or l)eaccful pursuits. 9 I~ IIVOL XLI Page 130 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. 130 Forage, cattle, mules, potatoes, rice, and produce of all kinds were freely taken by the proper forage details and carefully distributed to the troops. The command was abundantly supplied until it reached the Little Ogeechee and took up position in front of the enemy, when a scarcity of rations was observed. The health and spirits of the troops were never better than during the campaign just closed. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. W. RICE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. A. W. EDWARDS, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 4th Div., 15th Corps. No. 33. Report of Lieut. Col. Jerome D. Davis, Fifly.second Illinois Infantry. IIDQRS. FIFTY-SECOND ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864. LIEUTENANT: In accordance with instructions from your headquar- ters, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the late campaign: The regiment broke up camp at Rome, Ga., at 10 a. m. November 11, marched eighteen miles, and bivouacked for the night three miles south- east of Kingston. November 12, the regiment marched at 4 a. m. and bivouacked for tIme night two miles sonth of Allatoona, having marched eighteen miles. November 13, the regiment marched fifteen miles and bivouacked for the night two miles north of Marietta. November 14, the regiment marched fourteen miles and bivouacked for the night on the right bank of the Chattahoochee River, five miles below the railroa(i bridge. November 15, the regiment crossed the Chattahoochee River, and marched twelve miles and bivouacked for the night imear East Point. November 16, the regiment marched twenty miles and bivouacked for the night southeast of Jonesborough. November 17, the regiment marched twenty-five miles and bivouacked for the night near Jacksomm, Ga. November 18, the regiment rested until night, and then marched ten miles and bivouacked until morning. November 19, marched six miles and bivouacked for the imight on the right baimk of the Ocmulgee River. Novemlier 20, the regiment crossed the Ocmnulgee River, and marched eight miles and bivouacked for the night near Monticello, Ga. November 21, the regiment marched nine miles and bivouacked for the night near Hullsborough, Ga. November 22, the regiment marched nine miles and bivouacked for the night near Clinton, Ga. November 23, the regiment marched nine miles as rear guard for the division train, and did not bivouac until 2 a. m. the next morning. November 24, the regiment marched ten miles, passed through Gordon, and bivouacked for the night in an advanced position three miles southeast of that place. November 25, the regiment marched eighteen miles ammd biv- ouacked for the night eight miles south of Irwintomi. November 26, the regiment marched six miles, crossed the Oconee River, ammd bivouacked for the night at Irwins Cross-Roads, having marched fourteen miles. November 27, the regiment marched six miles to the Georgia Central Railroad, and took their part with the rest of the Fourth Division in b~irning the railroad for a distance of four miles to 8tatiou No. 13 Page 131 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 131 November 28, the regiment marched seventeen miles in a southeasterly direction and bivouacked for the night. November 29, the regiment marched eighteen miles and bivouacked for the night near Slaters Mills. November 30, the regiment marched sixteen miles and onacked for the night near Summervihle. biv December 1, the regiment marched ten miles and bivouacked for the night six miles west of the Ogeechee River. December 2, the regi- ment marched to the Ogeechee River, and after some delay a pontoon bridge was laid, and the regiment, with the exception of two compa- nies left to picket the right bank of the river, crossed the river and bivouacked for the night on the left bank. December 3, the regiment marched to the Georgia Central Railroad, and, iii conjunction with time other regiments of the brigade, burned two miles of time railroad track to Scarborough Station. The regiment recrossed the river at iii g ht and bivouacked near the right bank. December 4, the regiment marched twelve miles nearly parallel with the Ogeechee River and bivouacked for the night. December 5, the regiment mnarched twenty- two miles in a southeasterly direction aimd bivouacked for the miight. December 6, the regimnent rested all day. December 7, time regiment marched thirteen miles to Jemlks Bridge, crossed the Ogeechee River, and supported the Seventh Iowa Infantry, wimich regimnemit, in conjimne- tion with the Second Iowa Infantry, supported by the Sixty-sixth Jndmana infantry on our left, drove time rebels some distance beyommd Station No. 2, on the Georgia Central Railroad. At sunset the regi- ment returned half a mile, and bivouacked tw-o miles from the bridge for the night, and built a breast-work of rails. L)ecember 8, marched fourteen miles imi a southeasterly (lirection. bivouacked for the night near the Ogeechee Cammal, and threw up breast-works. December 9, the regunent marched four miles, bi~ onaked for the mmight near time Savanmmah and Gulf Railroad, amid threw np breast-works. 1)ecember 10, the regiment marched slowly a (histance of four muiles, and bivouacked for the night on the left of the Savammnah road, eight miles (histant fromn the city. IDecember 11, time regiment mmmove(l two miles to the right and bivouacked. December 12, the regiment remained quiet all (lay. At imight the regimnent moved down near the Little Ogeecimee River. (omn- panies G and I were deployed as skirmishers, and advanced to time bank of the river without eliciting any shots from the emiemy. After lying upon the bank of the river about an hour the skirmishers were withdrawn and the regiment returned to camp. The regimmient, with the exception of details for picket, then remnained quietly in camp until the morning of December 21, when it marched eio bivouacked near Savannah. bht miles and The regiment sustained but one casualty dnring the campaign, Sergt. T. Busby, Company E, wounded omi the picket-line near the Little Ogeechee River, December 14. No men of the regiment were sent to hospital durimig the campaign. I would also state timat there were cal)tured by the regiment during the campaign 17 horses and 13 mules; also, 1 horse was lost and 1 mule died during the campaign. 1 have time honor to be, lieutenant, very resl)ectfully, your obedient servant, J. D. DAVIS, Lienten an t-(Jolonel, Commanding. Lient. II. J. SMITH, Aide-de-Camp, llidqrs. First Brig., Fourth Div., 15th Army Gorps Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 34. Report of Lient. Col. Roger Martin, Sixty-sixth Indiana Infantry. HDQRS. SIXTY-SIXTH ItEGT. INDIANA INFANTRY VoLs., Savannah, Ga., December 28, 1864. LIEUTENANT: In compliance with General Orders No 11 head- quarters First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, I have the honor to submit the following repQrt of the part taken by this regi- ment in the late campaign: The regiment, with the brigade and division, marched fiom Rome, Ga., at 7 a. in. November 11, and passing through Kingston, encamped near the railroad, two miles south of the town. At 4 a. in. the following day the march was resumed, passing throi~gh the towiis of Cassyille, Cartersyille, and Ahlatoona, also crossing the Etowah River, encamping for the night on Allatoona Creek. The next night bivouacked near the base of Kenesaw Mountain, having passed the towns of Acworth and Big Shanty. On the 14th the reoi,nent marched to the Chattahoochee River, encamping for the night on the west bank of the same, several miles below the raihi-oad bridge. On the 15th Atlanta was reached, aiid the column halted while the trains were being loaded and clothing aiid rations issued to the mcii, after which the march was resumed, halting for the night live miles south of the city on the McDonough road. Early the following morning the command moved, inarcliingby side of the trains,wliich was very (lifticult this day, owing to the iiar- row road and thick un der~rowth; bivouacked for the night about five miles southeast of Jonesborougli. November 17, marched at 6 a. in. on the Jacksoii road, passil g thromigi iXIeDi a iough, and en camped ten miles from the Ocinnigee River. The following (lay did not move until after dark, the Seventeenth Corps having the road (luring the (lay. Marched through Jackson and rested until (laylight, when the march was resunied, reaching the river in the forenoon. At dark, with the Seventh Iowa, the regiment crossed the river and camped two miles beyond. the march was , me regiment being The following day resumed ti the rear guard, and the roads very heavy owing to the drenching rain of the night before. Monticello and the cairip of the division was miot reached until after night. Left Monticello early mmext mnorning and arrived at Hillsborongh at dark. November 22, marched on the road to Clinton ,eamping near the town during the night. The heavy roads again delayed us, and but a shortdistance was marched. At 110011 themmext day the regiment moved and continued the march until 1 oclock at night. This was probably the most disagreeable march of the campaign, owing to the darkness of the night and roughness of the roads. November 24, marched on the Gordon road, passing the town, and encamped two miles beyond. November 25, passed -through Irwiuton and camped near the Oconee River, the regiment this day having the advance of the division. November 26, crossed the river and camped at the cross-roads, six miles beyond. November 27, this day the brigade destroyed three miles of time railroad, camnpimig for the imight near Tennille. November 28, 29, amid 30, the mnarch was continued through a barren and swampy country. December 1, this day-the march was atteu(le(l with some difficulty, the road being occupied by the Third l)ivision. l)ecemnber 2, the brigade crossed the Ogeechee River; this regiment, with the Fifty- second illinois, reniainecl at the crossing, and (imirimig time night threw up worlis to protect the same. December 3, the regimemit, with th Page 133 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 133 brigade, was engaged in destroying the road to Scarborough Station; later in the afternoon recrossed the river and encaml)ed for the night. December 4 and 5, the march was continued down the right bank of the river, eiicainprng iiear the same during the night; alSo during the following day and night. December 7, the regiment, with the brigade, crossed the Ogeechee River again, and the enemy being found, a por- tion of the Second and Seventh Iowa were deployed as skirmishers, and drove them, the formei~ supported by the Fifty-second Illinois aiid the latter by this regiinemit; (luring the miight breast-works of rails and sand were thrown Ul) two miles from the river. December 8, the regi- ment was this day the rear guard, and when imear Eden was fired into by a concealed enemy. Three companies were immediately deployed and pursued the eneniy, who fled at once. No casualties occurred. At the railroad crossing the regiment halted and built a barricade, and remained until 8 p. in., when it marched, having charge of the teams of the division, to the Savannah Canal, where it arrived at midnight. December 9, marched in rear of the Second Brigade, who met the enemy early in the morning, but drove them before this regiment, which was deployed on the extreme right, came under fire; built a hue of works during the night. December 10, in arched on the road leading to Sa- vannah, and found the enemy on the opposite bank of the Little Ogeechee, sevemi miles from the city; from this time no movement occurred in which this regiment took part until the morning of the 21st, when the city was takemi possession of. There were no casualties in this regiment daring the campaign of any kind whatever; the men were in better health and spirits at its close than at its commencement. Number of public animals lost, 1 1mor~e~ minim 1 horse amid 2 mules. , iber of animals captured, I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very resJ)ectfIlhly, your obediemit ~servant, ROGER MARTIN, Lw U tc~ ant- Colon ci, Corn m anding. Lieut. hENRY J. S~vrn, Aide-ole- Camp, 1st Briqade, 4th. J)irisioa, 15th Army Corps. No. 35. Report ~t (lol. Aocl B. 110 ward, A~eCon(l Iowa Im~fantry. IIEAI)ouARmns SEc( )NI) lo )WA INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, ASaraunalt, (ia., 1)eccrnber 25 1864 SIR: Incomnpliance with General Orders, No). 11, headquarters First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, December 25, 18(4, I have the honor to submait the following report of the part rakemi by the Secoiid Regiment Iowa Infantry Volnuteers, in time camn~)aign just ejided: November 11, the regiment marched from Ilomne, Ga., on this day with the brigade and division at 7 a. in., passed through Kingstomm, and camped three miles beyond on the Cassvihle road. November 12, con- tinued to march, passing through Cassville, Cartersville, and Allatoona, camping two miles beyond the latter place. November 13, the nmarch was resumed at 7 a. m. and Marietta reached, nothing of note occur- ring. November 14, on this day the regiment was the rear guard o Page 134 134 OPERATIONS IN s. CX, GA., AND FLA. 1CHA1~. Lvi. the division, marching behind the train, reaching Turners Ferry at sunset; the men kept well in ranks. November 15, the regiment moved out with the command on the White Hall road, passed Atlanta, halting beside the road long enough to issue clothing to the men, and encamped four miles beyond the city. November 16, the march was continued on the MeDonough roa(l, the command moving alongside the train; the march was rapid and very fatiguiiig, the weather being warm. November 17, moved at 6 a. in. on the Jackson road and camped four miles from that place, making a tiresome march of twenty-three miles; about one-third of time men fell out of ranks during the day. No- vember 18, on this day time regiment did not leave camp until about 9 p. in., when it moved to the river at Ocmnlgee Mills and remained until morning. November 19, did not move th other troops crossing. November 20 the e bridge being occupied by reghuent crossed the river at 8 a. m. and, with the Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, remained to pro- tect the pontoons till they were taken up, then marched with the brigade to Monticello, the brigade being the rear guard. November 21, regiment marched at daybreak, passing through Monticello, and camped at Hillsborongh; tIme day was cold and rainy. November 22, the march was continued on this day to withimi two miles of Clinton amid was lunch delayed by time pontoon train. November 23, the march was resumed at 12 mu. on this day amid contimmued till 1 oclock at night; mach confusion existed during time night muarcim on account of the troops mnarching beside the train. November 24, on this day we marched through Gordon Station, where we reummited with time corps. Novem- ber 2~, passed through Irwimiton omi a fine road amid with fine weather. November 26, on this day the regiment, with the comnumand, passed the Ocomiec IRiver on pontoons, at 2 p. inn., amid caniped ten miles beyommd. The regiment at this l)lace was Joined by time three compamiies of time Third Iowa infamitry, which had beemi tramisferred to it. November 27, the regiment, witb~ the remainder of the bri oade was on this day, en gaged in destroying time railroad, and advanced but a few miles from its last camp. November 28, tIme march omi this day was most of the time through pine barrens over new roads. Noveniber 29, about twenty miles were made to-day, through a very poor country. November 30 amm(l December 1, the march was colitiillme(l on 1)0th (lays with imo occur- rence worthy of note. December 2. the Ogeechee Ri~-er was reached on this day and crossed, and the regimemit, with the Seventh Iowa Infamitry, tore up omme mile of the railroad track below Millen. 1)ecemnber 3, the regiment, with the brigade, was engaged all day imi destroying the railroad, and recrossed the river at night, camlil)iiig omi the west side. December 4 amid 5, mmiamched both days down time river road and camped at time cross-roads opposite Station No. 3. l)ecenmber 7, the regimiment marched at 7 a. in. and meaclied the river at 12 mu. at a i)Oiimt opposite Statiomi No. 2, where a crossing was to be effected. The enemy a~)peared in light force on the opposite side with the evidemit intention of coutestimig time passage. Pontoons were lai(l, and the First Brigade beimig ordered to cross, my regiment, which had time advance, was thrown across at about 1 p. m. and was deployed as skirmishers as soon as the peculiari- ties of the groummd would admit. Time enemys skirmishers fell back, lightly contesting our advance, to a barricade in an open field one mile amid a half from the river. Our skirmishers, supported by the reserve of four companies amid the Seventh Iowa, advanced briskly and drove the emmemy from his positioim, killing and wounding several, amid taking twenty prisoners. An attempt was made to take the enemys positio Page 135 eHAP. LvI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 135 in flank by advancing the right of my line, witli the reserve, along the timber bordering the field, but the sharpness with which the center attacked and the discovery of the flank movement caused the enemy to retreat in confusion before it could be effected. The station, one mile fhrther on, was occupied by us without further resistance. The loss in the regiment in this affair was 2 killed and 2 wounded, all be- longing to Company E. December 8, On this day we made a rapid and fatiguing march of about twelve miles, to the Savannah Canal. December 9, the regiment moved out suddenly with the brigade on this day. The advance of the division came up with the enemy about three miles out, and after considerable skirmishing drove him from his posi- tion, but the regiment was not brought under fire during this affair. December 10, on this day the command marched on the direct Savannah road and found the enemy on the opposite side of the Little Ogeechee. December 11 to December 21,in the operations in front of this place, on and near the Littfe Ogeechee, the regiment performed its duty as a part of the brigade without becoming at any time directly engaged with the enemy, and entered the city on the 21st instant with the commamid. The losses in the regiment are as follows :* Number of public ani- mnals lost, 2 mules; number of prisoners captured, 20, all in the afihir of the 7th instant; number of animals captured, 10 horses and 8 mules. Among the losses of the regiment during the march it pains me to enumerate Capt. John A. Duckworth, who died of disease on the 13th instant. He was a veteran actuated by the purest feelings of patriot- ism, and his loss is one of the greatest the regiment has endured since its organization. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. B. HOWARD, Colonel Second lo ira Infantry Volunteers, Comdg. Regiment. Licut. H. J. SMITH, Aide-de- Camp, 1st Brigade, 4th Dinision, 15th Army Corps. No. 36. Report of Lient. Col. James C. Parrott, Seventh Iowa Infantry. VIEADQITARTERS SEVENTH IOWA VETERAN JNFAKTRY, Sarannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. LIEUTENANT: In compliance with General Orders, No 11, dated headquarters First Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864, 1 have the honor to make the fol- lowing report of the part taken by the Seventh Iowa Veteran Infantry in the recent campaign from Rome to Savannah, Ga., during the months of November and December, 1864: The regiment left Rome, Ga., on the 11th of November, 1864, and camped two miles south of Kingston, having marched a distance of sixteen miles. November 12, marched to Allatoona and camped two nmiles south of that place; distance, eighteen miles. November 13, marched seventeen miles and camped near the eastern base of Kenesaw Mountain. November 14, marched to the Chattahoochee River, camp- ing at Turners Ferry; distance, fifteen miles. November 15, marched * Nominal list (omitted) shows 2 enlisted men killed and 3 wounded Page 136 136 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. to Atlanta, drew clothing, rations, & c., then marched five miles and cam 1)ed in the vicinity of East Point; distance, fourteen miles. Novern- ber 16, marched on the NllcDoiiougli roa(l aiid camped on Indian Cotton Creek; distance, twenty miles. November 17, passed through McDon- ough and camped near Jackson; distance, twenty miles. November 18, remained in camp all day; broke camp at dark, marched through Jackson and camped in the vicinity of the Ocmnlgee River about 12 midnight; distance, ten miles. November 19, left camp early in the morning, and after some delay crossed the Ocmulgee at sunset; marched two miles and went into camp; distance, five miles. November 20, remained in camp till 1 p. m. (detained by pioneer corps, who were takiig up pontoons), then marched eight miles and camped in a pine grove. November 21, left camp at 12 mu., weather rainy and nupleas- ant; marched through Hillsborough, camping about dark near said place. November 22, marched at 7 a. in., weather very nupleasent and cold, with snow; marched about ten miles, and, being in advance of the brigade, and owing to the bad condition of the roads which detained the train, camped on a creek some two muiles in advance of the brigade. November 23, left camp about 11 a. in., passimig through Clinton; marched till 1 a. m. next morning and camped near cross-roads; dis- tance, thirteen miles. November 24, marched to Gordon and weut into (amp about one mile from town; distance, eight miles. November 25, broke camp at 5.30 a. in., and marched eighteen miles, passing through lrwmmmton, and camped at Daryeas Store. November 26, left camp at 6 a. in., crossed the Oconee River at 12 in., marched eight miles beyond, making in all fourteen miles. November 27, marched at 6 a. in. in the direction of the Georgia Central Railroad and destroyed one mile of the same, them~ proceeded to Statiomi No. 13 and camped, having no trans- portation with the brigade. November 28, marched at 5.30 a. in; at 9 a. m. came in contact with Third iDivisiomi; camped at 3 p. m. near a large swamp; distance marched, ten mail es. November 29, left camp at 5 a. in., crossing the swamp, and marched over bad roads, camping at snuset; distance marched, eighteen miles. November30, mnarchedat 6.30 a. in., passing through the town of Summerville, and camped four miles from the Ogeechee River; distance, fifteeii miles. December 1, marched at 7 a. m. toward the Ogeechee, then dowir the river, parallel with it, a distance of fifteen miles. 1)ecember 2, marched at 6.30 a. in.; crossed Sculls Creek; then crossed the Ogeechee amid proceeded to the Georgia Central Railroad, and destroyed one mile of it about four miles east from Millen; camped at dark near railroad. l)ecem- ber3, moved at daylight, arid conimnenced further destruction of the road; at 2 p. in., had destroyed two miles, as far as Station No.7; then recrossed the Ogeechee and went into camp. December 4, took up our hue of march at 6 a. iii., amid marched twelve miles. December 5, marched at daylight; the Seventh low-a was soon ordered to the front in support of the Second Brigade, but did not overtake them; camped at dark near the Ogee- chee; distance, eighteen miles. December 6, remained in camp all day. December 7, marched at 6.30 a. ni. and struck the Ogeechee at 11 a. in.; laid pontoons and crossed about noon. Met the enemy in small force; had a lively skirmish and drove them to Station No. 2, where they went on board a train an(l left in the direction of Savannah. In this skir- mish I had two mcmi slightly wounded. Moved to the rear of Station No. 2 about one mile and camped for the night, leaving Company K on picket guard at the station. December 8, marched at 8 a. m. and struck the Ogeechee and Savauliah Canal at 2 p. in., where we went into camp. Here shovels were sent to the front, and we, for the first tim Page 137 CHAP. LVI.] TILE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 137 on the march, threw up works. 1)ecember 9, left camp at 9 a. in., crossed the canal, and proceeded in the direction of the Coast ILtaliroad. At 10 a. m. the regiment was formed in line of battle; two companies, commanded by Major Mahon, were deployed as skirmishers and moved obliquely to the right and front. The regiment moved by the right flank on the double-quick till it reached a road leading from the river; then proceeded up said road, but before arriving at the place of action the enemy had fled, leaving a disabled 10-pounder Blakely rifle gnu. Camped at 2 p. m. and threw up works. December 10, marched at9a.m., and after proceeding a short distance found that the enemy had flooded the country by letting the water out of the canal, which the men were obliged to wade for some distance; but the obstruction was slight, and we soon reached the Little Ogeechee IRiver. The regi- ment was ordered into line of battle, and moved forward through a heavy-timbered, dense swamp until I came in sight of the rebel works on the opposite side of the Little Ogeechee. In the afternoon I moved the regiment, under orders, about 100 paces to the rear and camped for the night. December 11, moved to the rear and encamped on A nder- sons plantation, where we remained encamped until the 21st, keeping up all the time a lively skirmish on the picket-line. On the night of the 19th my regiment was ordered to effect a crossing of the Little Ogeechee. I marched the regiment to the vicinity of the river, Company A being detailed to carry boards for the purpose of crossing sloughs, and Coin- pany B was detailed to carry a boat for the purpose of crossing a de- tachment to reconnoiter the opposite bank. Major Mahon, with four picked men, crossed the river, and from his reconnaissance it was found to be impossible to cross the regiment on account of swamps and mo- rasses on the opposite bank. At 12 midnight the regiment was ordered back to camp. December 20, was quiet all day. December 21, reports were in circulation at an early hour that the enemy had abandoned his stronghold on the Little Ogeechee. The brigade was ordered to move to the front, and at 2 p. m. entered the city of Savannah without firing a gun, the enemy having made a hasty retreat. During the march my reginient captured 24 horses and mules, 8 of which were turned over to Captain Ilattray, acting assistant inspector- general, Fourth Division, at the crossing of the Oconee Itiver. The remaining 16 were turned over to Lieutenant Martin, acting assistant quartermaster, First Brigade, Fourth I)ivision, Fifteenth Army Corps, at Andersons plantation. My regiment also captured a number of cattle, hogs, & c., and unearthed many bushels of sweet potatoes, all of which were properly disposed of. My whole casualties on the march were three men wounded, as follows: Job A. Clark, Company B, slight, December 7; Oliver Kneudscn, Coin- pany C, slight, December 7; Alexander Krieger, Company D, severely, December 11. Three men are missing since leaving Rome, but whether they are deserters or were captured by the enemy I am unable to say. My regiment to.day is in fine condition, there being but eight men sick. I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C. PAIIIIOTT, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Lieut. II. J. SMITH, Aide-dc-Camp, First Brig., Fourth 1)ir., Fifteenth Army Corps Page 138 138 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. iVt No. 37. Report of Col. Robert N. Adams, Eighty-first Ohio Infantry, command ing Second Brigade, of operations October 5December 21. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FOURTH Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 3, 1865. CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders from headquarters Fourth iDivision, Fifteenth Army Corps, requiring a report of the operations of this command during the recent campaign, I respectfully submit the following: From the 5th of October to the 11th of November, 1864, this bri- gade formed a part of the garrison of Rome, Ga. l)aring this time three reconnaissances were made, iu all of which this brigade partici- pated, but without sustaining any loss. On the 29th of October orders were received to make preparatiou for a long, arduous, and successful campaign, which was accordingly done, and on the morning of the 11th of November the brigade, with its division, took up the line of march for Atlanta. On the evening of the 14th, after four days march, reached the Chattahoochee River at Turners Ferry; crossed to the south side and encamped. 15th, the brigade was ordered as escort to division supply train to Atlanta after clothing and supplies, which being obtained it moved out of the city four miles in the directioii of East Point, where it joined the division and went into camp. Leaving the camp near Atlanta on the morning of the 16th, the march was unimpeded until it reached the Ocmulgee River, with the exception of being delayed one day on account of General Kilpatricks supply train occupying the road, which delay caused us to make a night march of six miles. After crossing the Ocinulgee River our march was very much impeded for four days with the pontoon train, partly on account of the weakness of the teams and partly owing to the bad condition of the roads. On the 24th the brigade, with its division, arrived at Gordon, and, passing two miles southeast of that place, was ordered to occupy the works just evacuated by the First Division, Fifteenth Army Corps. 25th, the brigade, wiEh its division, again took the line of march, and on the 26th crossed the Oconee River; marched seven miles and encamped near Irwins Cross- Roads. December 3, the brigade was ordered to cross the Big Ogeechee River as support to General Rices brigade while engaged in destroying a por- tion ofthe Central Georgia Railroad~ recrossed the river the same evening, and on the morning of the 4th again took up the line of march on the west side of the river. On the 8th the brigade with its division was again ordered to cross the Ogeechee River, and moved without transportation down on the east side of the river to the Ogeechee Canal, a distance of fif- teen miles. Here it was ascertained that two miles and a half in our front the enemy were in some force, and a farther advance was post- poned until the following morning. On the morning of the 9th the bri- gade, with one section of Battery H, First Missouri Light Artillery, Lieu- tenant Brunner commanding, and two companies of the Seventh Illi- nois Mounted Infantry, was ordered to cross the Ogeechee Caiial aiid dislodge the enemy from his fortified position at the junctioii of the old River road and the Kings Bridge road, three miles from the canal. The brigade moved out, Seventh Illiiiois Mounted Infantry in advance. They soon encnintered the enemys pickets, and a brisk skirmish ensued. One company of the Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry was then deployed as skirmishers. The seventh Illinois Mounted Infantry were placed o Page 139 CHAP. LvI.J THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 139 the flanks and ordered to move forward, supported by the Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry on the right and the Twelfth Illinois infantry on the left of the road, the Eighty-first Ohio Thfantry being held in reserve. After moving forward about half a mile in this manner the skirmish hue was strengthened by two companies, one from the Eighty-first Ohio and one from the Sixty sixth Illinois Infantry, amid ordered to charge the enemys works, which was snccessfriily doue, resulting in the cap- ture of one 12-pounder rifled gun and twelve prisoners, besides secur- ing for us the important position we desired. We continued, how- ever, to drive the enemy until we reached the west branch of the Little Ogeechee River, the bridge over which he had par- tially destroyed. Here the brigade was halted and ordered to return to the division. 10th, two regiments of the brigade, Twelfth illinois and Sixty-sixth Illinois Jimfantry, were ordered to move to the Gulf railroad bridge, over the Little Ogeechee River, and, if possible, effect a crossing, the Eighty-first Ohio Infantry being left to guard divis- ion supply train. Arriving at Station No. 1 Oii the above-named rail- road one company of the Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry were deployed as skirmishers, supported by one company of the Twelfth Illinois Infantry, and ordered to move forward to the railroad bridge, and the two regi- ments moved down on the right of the railroad, under cover, to within a qnarter of a mile of the bridge. Here the gronud became so marshy on either side of the railroad that it was impossible for even the skir- mish line to advamuce farther, except only the few meii that were march- ing on the railroad. it now being ascertained that the bridge could only be reached by the railroad, and that it had beemi burning for some time, amid no emmemy having yet beeui discovei-ed, Capt. James Compton was ordered to move down the railroad with ten men and effect a cross- lining if possible. Vie accordingly advamuced to the railroad bridge, and was about to make some arrangement by which to cross himself and men, when tIme emmemny suddenly opened upon him from behind the abut- innent on the opposite side of the river. here the captain discovered he was confronted by a considerable force of the enemy behind works (both artillery amid infantry), amid that the only approach to the river was by the railroad. These flicts havimug been reported, aim effort was made to find a crossing at sonme point above the bridge, but with- out success. The picket-post then at the bridge was strengthened and ordered to open a brisk fire upomi the enemumy P)r the purpose of more fully developing his forces. The enemy returned the fire from behind the abutment of the bridge on tIme opposite side of the river and from his works a few humidred yards from the river, amid also used two pieces of artillery. A bmisk fire was kept up until dark, when, by direction of the general comumandiuug division, the brigade was withdrawn and emucamped on Millers plantation, at Station No. I. On the 11th aim effbrt was made to find a crossing at some point be- low the bridge. The Twelfth Illinois infantry was accordingly sent out for this purpose, under comumand of Lieutenant-Colonel Van Sellar. The colonel spent most of the day in this search, but could not find even an approach to the river. After examining the north shore of the river to within range of the guns of Fort McAllister he returned to camp. The brigade remnaummed in canip on Millers plantation until the 14th, when it was ordered to joiim the division then encaumped on the Anderson plantation. Here the Eighty-first Ohio Infantry (having been left on the 10th as guard to division supply train) joimmed the brigade. Previous to this, however, this regilneut had been ordered to the front, and while engaged in throwummg up a line of breast-work Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. lost one mait, mortally wollIL(led by a fragment of a shell. Nothing of importance occurred (the brigade lying quietly in camp) until the night of the 19th, when another attempt was made to cross the Little Ogee- ehee River. Time order was simply to effect a crossing with a few men, to reconnoiter the ground on the south bank preparatory to effecting a crossing in force on the following i~ight. The crossing was successfully ma(le nuder the immediate supervision of First Lent. William Pitt- man, of the Eighty-lirst Ohio Infantry, with ten men from the Eighty- first Ohio Infantry and Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry, who volunteered for the purpose. This hazardous movement was accomplished without loss, or without even being discovered by the enemy. Although Lieu- tenant Pittman is ever first in the line of duty, yet for his conduct on this occasibn he deserves special mention, as well as Sergeant Mason and the men who accompanied him. No advantage, however, was obtained from this crossing, the enemy having, on the night of the 20th, evacuated the works in our front, thus leaving us the free passage of the river and in quiet possession of the beautiful city of Savannah. The casualties of this command during the campaign were 4 enlisted meni captured and 3 wounded, 2 severely and 1 mortally. The campaign, with the exception of a few (lays, was a pleasant one. Men had an abundance to eat and arrived at Savannah, as they had been during the entire march, in the best spirits and condition possible. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, li. N. ADAMS, Colonel Eighty-first Ohio i~fantry, Comdg. Second Brigade. Capt. A. W. EDWARDS, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Uen., Fourth Division, Fmfteenth Army Corps. No. 38. Report oj irctj. Wheeloek S. Merrinwn, Twe~fth Illinois Im~thntry. hI1)QRS. TWELFTh l~EGT. ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLS., November 14, passed through Marietta amid marched to Turners Ferry; fifteen miles. November 15, marched into Atlanta with supply train, and at 5 p. m. move(l to East I~oint, having marched eleven miles. November 16, marched about eighteen miles through a wooded country, leaving Jonesborough to time riglmt. Novemmiber 17, marched about twenty mniles, passing thron gim McDonouglm. Moved at 5 p. in. on the 18th, and marched ten muiles, going through Jackson. November 19, marched nine muiles to Ocmnulgee River at Seven Islands Factory, and crossed it on the 20th, mnarching to Monticello; nine miles. On the 21st marched to hlilhsboroughm, ten miles, over bad roads. November ~2, marched about ten miles over very bad roads, and on the 23d passed through Clinton, marching about twelve miles; lost one man near Clin- ton, captured by guerrillas. November 24, l)assed through Gordon and camped two miles south; distance, seven miles. On the 25th passed through Irwinton; muarched eighteen miles and reached Oconee River. Crossed it on the 26th and camuped at Irwins Cross-Roads; seventeen * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 77~. Page 141 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 141 miles march. Moved at 2 p. m. November 27, and marched five miJes. Marched sixteen miles on the 28th, passing through Wrightsville. 29th, marched eighteen miles through a very swampy country, and crossed tbe headwaters of the Little Ohoopee River. 30th of November, passed Summerville, marching fourteen miles. December 1, marched ten miles, and on the 2d marched to Sculls Creek and camped near it. December 3, crossed the Ogeechee River; was on picket four miles from Milieu, and returned at 5 p. in. 4th, marched down the Ogeechee River fifteen miles. 5th, marched eight- een miles and camped on the bank of the Ogeechee, but finding a bad crossing, lay in camp on the 6th, and on the 7th marched to Jenks Bridge; eleven miles. On the 8th crossed the Ogeechee and marched to the Ogeechee Canal; fifteen miles. On the 9th marched four miles, and found the enemy in force behind breast-works hastily constructed of logs and rails, though in some places dirt had been thrown up. The Sixty-sixth Illinois deployed across the main road as skirmishers, while the regiment and Eighty-first Ohio marche(l by the flank until the enemy were driveit from their first position, after which they were deployed in line of battle on the left of the road. The enemy retreated to l)revent capture by flank movements, and were l)nlsued across Salt- water Creek. On the 10th the regiment and Sixty-sixth Illinois were sent to burmi the railroad bridge over the Little Ooeechee, but the enemy burnt it on our approach. We lay in camp on the 12th and 13th, and on the 14th joined the division in line of battle on Andersons plan- tation. Lay in camp on the 15th and 16th, and reperted to the pro- vost-marshal-general, Fifteenth Army Corps, on the 17th, by order of General Corse. On the 18th started for Fort McAllister with rebel prisoners, and while in camp there, awaiting transportation to Hilton Head, received information of the cal)tnre of Savannah. 23d, sent the prisoners on the steamer Ashland (Lieutenant-Colonel Van Sellar tak- ing 100 men with him, as guards, to hilton head), and on the 24th rejoined the brigade at this l)lace. ~[ery respectfully, your obedient servant, WHEELOCK S. MEIIIIIMAN, Major, Commanding Twelfth Regiment illinois i~fantry Vols. Lieut. WILLIAM PITTMAN, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gem, 2d Brig., 4th Div., 15th Army Corps. No. 39. Report of Capt. William S. Boyd, Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry. HDQRS. SIXTY-SIXTH ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, Sacannak, Ga., January 2, 1865. LIEUTENANT :* The same can be said of our march from Atlanta, commencing on the 15th 01 November, through the towns of McDonough, Jackson, Monticello, Hilisborough, Clinton, Gordon, Irwintomi, and the country intervening, and the pine barrens of Johnson and Emanuel Counties, to the Ogeechee River at Sculls Creek. Here, on the 3d of December, we crossed the river to the east side and lay in the iutrenchments * For portion of report (here omitte4) relating to operations in North Georgia, se~ Vol. XXX1X, Part I, p.776 Page 142 142 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. during the day, recrossing at night and resuming our march the next day down the west side of the river. On the 8th crossed the Ogeechee at a point opl)osite Eden, and moved southward to the Ogeechee Canal, camping on the north side. On the morning of the 9th moved forward in advance of the brigade, across the canal, and dowii the Eden road. The enemy appearing in our front, Companies A, C, and I were advanced and deployed as skirmishers on both sides of the road, the regiment moving in line of battle in support of the skirmish line. At 11.30 oclock the skirmishers engaged the enemy, driving him back to his works near the Savannah road, which were stormed and taken by the skirmish line, supported by this regiment and the brigade, the enemy fleeing precipi- tately after a short but brisk resistance, leaving in our possession one 12-pounder Blakely rifled cannon and 10 or 12 prisoners. Our loss was 1 man severely wounded. Went into camp on the field of action. On the morning of the 10th of 1)ecember moved in company with the Twelfth Illinois to Station No. 1, on the Gulf railroad, advancing from there along the railroad as near to the bridge over the Little Ogeechee as we could approach. Compaimy E was deployed as skirmishers on the west bank of the river, and engaged the enemy on the opposite side in a brisk skirmish, which was kept up till night, resulting in iio loss on our part. Camped on Doctor Millers plantation till the evening of the 14th of December, when we moved across the west branch of the Little Ogeechee to Andersons plantation, where we remained till the morning of the 21st of December, nothing in the meantime of importance transpir- ing. On the morning of the 21st moved forward toward the Little Ogee- chee, Compai~ies A and II being deployed as skirmishers. The river was crossed without opposition, and the skirmishers being advanced on the east bank it was soon ascertained that the enemy had evacuated his works, leaving his heavy artillery in our possession. Our march from here to Savannah was unopposed, the city and works having been evacuated on the night of the 20th. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. BOYD, Captain, Commanding Regiment. Lieut. WILLIAM PITTMAN, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 4th Dir., 15th Army Corps. No. 40. Report of ]Ifaj. William C. Henry, Eighty-first Ohio Infantry, of oper ations October 5December 21. HDQUs. EIGHTY-FIRST OHIO INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, AS~araflflah, Ga., January 2, 1865. LIEUTENANT: In compliance with circular from headquarters Second Brigade, Fourth Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, I would respectfully submit the following report: From the 5th of October until the 11th of November, 1864, the regi- ment was stationed at Rome, Ga., doing garrison (luty. During this time the regiment, with its brigade, made several reconnaissances, which were accomplished without loss. On the 29th of October the regiment received orders to prepare for a long, arduous, and successful cam- paign, and the necessary preparations were made to place the coin- itmud in the very best possible condition for active service Page 143 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 143 On the morning of the 11th of November the regiment broke up camp at Rome arid proceeded, with its brigade and division, to Atlanta, Ga., where it joined Shermans grand army. The regiment entered AUanta on the 15th; remained long enough to draw rations and clothing for the command, and the same evening headed southward. The regiment was continually with its brigade throughout the march from Atlanta to the Little Ogeechee River, not participating in any action until the 9th of December, when the regiment, with its brigade, crossed the Ogeechee Canal near the Ogeechee River, and proceeded in the direction of Savan- nah. The advance of the%rigade soon encountered the enemy. The Twelfth and Sixty-sixth Illinois were formed ou the right and left of the road, the Eighty-first being held in reserve. One company, F, Lieutenant Pittman commanding, was sent forward as skirmishers. At times the musketry and cannonading was quite brisk, yet the enemy were driven for a considerable distance by our skirmish line. The brigade being very much annoyed by a rebel battery, Colonel Adams ordered the regiment forward with instructions to advance through a wood on the left of the road, and, if possible, get in rear of the battery and capture it. After marching for nearly two miles through a wood, almost impassable on account of the thick nnderbrush, it was discovered that the enemy had taken the alarm and fled. During the operations of this day the regiment was under fire several times, but did not sus- tain any loss. Several prisoners were captured by the company on the skirmish line. From the 10th of December until the capture of Savannah, the reg- iment was in camp on the Anderson place, near the Little Ogeechee River, doing its share of picket duty, with the loss of one man mortally wounded. Special mention should be made of First Lient. William Pittman and Sergeant Masomi, who, assisted by seven volunteers from the Eighty-first Ohio and three from the Sixty-sixth Illinois, were the first to cross the Little Ogeechee River. Several attempts were made by the division to effect a crossing, but owin o to the marshy grouiid on both sides of the river all the attempts failed, until the night of the- 19th of November, when Lieutenant Pittman and party effected a cross- ing. After they had explored the ground on the opposite side of the river, and had ascertained that troops could be easily thrown across, they were ordered to recross. The enemy evacuate(I on the imight of the 20th, before the necessary preparations could be made to cross a large force, so that no advantage resulted from the crossing effected by Lieutenant Pittman and party; yet they are not deserv- ing of less praise on that account. The undertaking was a hazardous one, and had the enemy remained in our front the information gained by Lieutenant Pittman would have beemi of great iinportamice to the army. Captain McCain and Lieutenant ilarbaugh are also deserving of praise for valuable assistance rendered Lieutenant Pittman. On the morning of the 21st the regiment, with its brigade, crossed the Little Ogeechee, and proceeded to Savannah, near which place it went into camp. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, WM. CLAY HENRY, ]Ift(jor Eighty Jir8t Ohio Volunteer I~fantry. Lient. WILLIAM PITTMAN, Acty. Asst, Adjt. G em, 2d Brig., 4th Die., 15th Army Corps Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 41. Report of Lieut. Col. Frederick J. Huribut, Fifty-seventh Illinois In fantry, commanding Third Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FOURTh Div., 15TH ARMY CORPS, Sarannalt, Ga., January 3, 1865. CAPTAIN :* On the 115th [November] arrived at Atlanta. Remained at this place a few hours; received some supplies and clofliing, and then moved out four miles and a half and camped near East Point. On the 16th, 17th, and 18th passed through the towns of Rongh and Ready, MeDonough, and Jackson, and arrived at the Gemulgee River on the morning of the 19th, nothing unusual occurring. The First and Second Divisions were crossing. Here the Seventh Illinois Infantry Veteran Volunteers were ordered to be mounted, and they have succeeded iii mounting 4 com missioned officers and 120 enlisted men. At daybreak on the 20th crossed the Ocmulgee. On the 21st passed Monticello and Hilisbor- ough; on the 28d passed Clinton, and on the 24th reached Gordon at 12 m. Left camp at 6 a. m. the 25th, and, passing Irwinton, reached the Oconee River on the 26th at 11 a. m. The bridge being soon completed, the brigade was the first infantry that crossed the river at Balls Ferry. Received orders on the 27th to move with t~vo days rations, and pro- ceeded to the Central railroad at Deep Cnt, and, in connection with the First Brigade, destroyed the road to Station No. 13, a distance of six miles; camped that night at Tennille, near General Shermans headqnarters. On the 28th broke camp at 5.3() a. in., aud marched to Peacocks Cross-Roads, and camped on Little Ohoopee River. Moved at 5 a. m. ou the 29th, the First Brigade in the advance, and joined the Second Brigade at 12 in., at cross-roa(ls. 30th, moved at 5.30 a. in., passing Summerville; camped on Sculls Creek. December 2 amid 3, remaine(l in camp; the men cleaned up. An inspection of the command was held, and its condition was found as good as could be expected. The comm amid moved at 6.30 a. m. December 4, nothing unusual occnrriag, and reached cross-roads, one mile from Jenks Bridge, over the Ogeechee, on the 7th. At 5.30 a. m. on the 8th the command procee(led forward with two days rations in haversacks, accompanied by 110 more train than was necessary; crossed the Ogeechee River at 7, the Seventh Illinois in advance. Moved throngh Eden Station, and took the might-baud road in the direction of the Ogeechce Canal. Soon after some slight skir- mishing took place, and the Sevemith Illinois captured omie rebel lieu- tenant and three privates. Tile roads were obstructed by fallen timber in several places. At noon reached the canal at Dillons I3ridge, and found the bridge, which had been fired by the enemy in the morning, still burning. Two regiments of my commnan(l crossed tIme caial, remiiained a short timne, and were ordered to recross, and the whole went into camp. The mounted portion of tile Seventh Illinois, sent in advance, having proceeded to the cross-roads, encountered a rebel force of infantry intrenched. On skirmishing an hour, and fimiding the enemy well fortified, the .mounted Seventh returned to the command, having one man wounded so sevei-ely it was impossible to remove him. lie was captured by the enemny, but has since escape(l. Remained iii For portion of report (Iteic Omitte(l) relating to operatioii~ in North Georgia, ~ce Vol. XXXIX, Part I, m 782 Page 145 CHAP. LYI.J THE ~SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 145 camp omi the 9th until 11 a. in., and were then ordered forward; moved in a south direction until we entered the mnaiu road leading from Kings Bridge, over the Ogeechee, direct to Savannah, which we fol- lowed for two miles, and went into camp on the left of the same, and, under orders from the general commanding, threw up strong breast- works in our front, the enemy being reported in the immediate vicinity. On this day the mounted portion of the Seventh Illinois, under Colonel Perrin, moved in advance of the Second Brigade, and, on approaching the cross:roads, moved on the flanks of the brigade, skirmishing with time enemy during the engagement that followed; and, after taking pos- session of the cross-roads, by direction of General Corse, Lieutenant- Colonel Perrin proceeded with one company to the Gnlf railroad, which he effectually destroyed for a distance of 200 yards, thereby stopping and capturing a locomotive and train of cars, which he destroyed, and capturing 25 prisoners, whom he turned over to the provost-marshal-general. On the niorning of time 10th ,at 2 a. in., five companies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry were ordered to report to Captain Barbour, chief of grand guard of the division; were sent for- ward by him on the Savannah road. At 7 a. in. the brigade moved forward, being the advance of the division; two miles out crossed Salt Creek, where the road for some distance was submerged by ti(le water. A little farther on came up with the five companies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa, sent forward as before stated. On moving still farther two coin- panies of the Thirty-ninth Iowa were detailed to rebuild a small bridge that had that morning been destroyed by the enemy. Here the Seventh Illinois were throwmm forward and deployed as skirmishers, and exchanged shots with the enemy. It being soon ascertained that the enemy had planted a portion of his artillery so as to commnand the road, the column was ordered to keep to time right of tIme road under cover of the timber. 0mm reaching a field the column was ordered to form in line of battle by battalion; did so; moved across the field a~d halted. The skirmish limie was here strengthened, the right by two companies front the Thirty- ninth Iowa, the left by one company from the Fiftieth Ilhirmois and one from the Fifty-seventh Illinois. Time command then moved forward three-quarters of a mile nutil the camp of the enemy was distinctly visible some 1,500 yards distammt across open fields and on the east side of the Little Ogeechee, strongly intrenched. By order of the command- ing general the battalions in resem-ve were ordered to halt under cover of timber. I ordered the Seventh Illinois as skirmishers, with strong reserve, to advance across the open field and (levelop the enemy, which was done most valiantly, under command of Major Johnson, who adyanced his skirmishers to within about 400 yards of the works under heavy fire from enemnys artillery. Ilemnaining in present position until 4 p. in., received orders to move the battalion, then in reserve, into camp about three-qmmarters of a mile to the rear, Major Johnson, holding skirmish line iumtil relieved at night, coming into camp about 7 p. in. December 11 in mile; was ordered to oved to right and rear three-quarters of a muake permanent camp. Remained in camp until morning of the 21st, in the meammtime furnishing men for skirmish or picket duty on our front. No casualties occurred to the men, and but slight firing, while on duty. Moved in town 21st, and bivouacked in suburbs of city. December 22, moved imito Fort Brown and ordered to make camp. During the march the men have deported themselves as good soldiers. The march being long and tedious a portion of the time the men were quite short of rations, but expressed no complaint. 10 R HVOL XLI Page 146 146 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. Thus ended a march of some 375 miles through the heart of Georgia, a march memorable for the ease and rapidity by which it was accom- plished, and the good, soldierly conduct of the itien. My losses were 1 man of the Fifty-seveiith and I of the Fiftieth Illi- nois Infantry, died of disease; and 1 of the Fifty-seventh and 1 of the Seventh Illinois Infantry, wounded. I have the honor to be, captain, very rcspectftilly, your obedient servant, F. J. HURLBUT, Lieut. (Jol. Fifty-seeenth Illinois Infantry, Cor~dg. Brigade. Capt. A. W. EDWARDS, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gem., Fourth Div., Fifteenth Army Corps. No. 42. Report of Lient. Col. Hector Perrin, Seceuth Illinois Infttntry. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH iLLINOIS VOLUNTEERS, Savannah, (Ia., January , 1865. SIR :* On the 19th [Noveniber] I was directed by orders from the general commanding division to mount my command, capturing for that pur- pose stock and equipments in the country. I succeeded during the campaign to mount six companies, numbering in all 5 commissioned officers and 120 enlisted men. On the 27th the dismounted portion of my command, under Maj. Edward S. Johnson, moved with the brigade to the Georgia Central Railroad for the purpose of destroying it. By direction of general commanding division I proceeded with the mounted portion to Station 13, at which place I rejoined the command in the evening of the saiuie day. From that date to the 8th of December the dismounted portion kept its place in line of march with the brigade, and the mounted was sent scouting on the flanks of the column. On the 9th, the division having crossed the Ogeechee River near Station No. 2, I was directed to take the advance with the mounted men. I proceeded as far as the cross-roads, where I met the enemy in force; had a skirmish of about one hours duration, when, finding the enemy intrenched, I retired, having had one man severely wounded, whom I left at a house, not being able to take him farther; he was taken to Savannah by the enemy (made his escape since). I then returned to the command, camped on the Ogeechee and Savannah Canal. On the 9th I moved in advance of the Second Brigade with the mounted men, leaving Major Johnson in command of the footmen, within a short distance of the cross-roads. I moved omi the flanks of the infantry and skirmished with the enemy during the engagement that followed. After taking possession of the cross-roads, by direction of the general commanding divisiomi, I proceeded with one company to the Gulf railroad, which I destroyed effectually for a distance of about 200 yards, thereby stopping and capturing a locomotive and train of cars, which were destroyed by fire; I also captured 25 prisoners, which I turned * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, P. 779 Page 147 CHAP. Lvii THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 147 over to the provost-marshal of the division. On the 10th, in advance on the Little Ogeechee, Major Johnson, with the footmen, was directed to advance and deploy his command as skirmishers on the enemys position, which was effectually developed on the other side of the Little Ogeechee River, the mounted portion acting as flankers. From that date, December 10, to the occupation of Savannah, December 21, the footmen performed duty with the brigade in front of Little Ogee- chee River, and the mounted men were occupied in looking for forage for the division, and on the 16th had a skirmish with some rebel cav- alry at llinesville, in which one rebel was killed. On the 26th Major Johnson was ordered, by order of general commanding division, to pro- ceed to Fort Bonaventure with the footmen of my regiment (four coin- panies) to perform guard duty at that place. All of which I have the honor to submit. Very respectfully, your obediemit servant, HECTOR PERRIK, Lieutenant. Colonel, Corn in anding. Lient. WILLIAM C. GHOST, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 43. Reports of M9j. Gen. Frank P. Blair, jr., U. S. Army, commanding Secenteenth Army Corps. hEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTh Awwv Conps, ran na/i G( , ~., December 31, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the oper- ations of this command (luring the campaign from Atlanta to this point: The command started from Atlanta on the 13th of November on the MeDonough road, and moved, via McDonough and Jackson, to the Oc- minilgee River, at Plamiters Factory. We crossed the river on the night of the 18th of Novemuber, and continued our march, via Momiticello and Blountsville, to Gordon, on the Georgia Central Railroad, which point we reached on the 22d of November. On the 23d of November we con- tinned our mnarch alomig the railroad to the Oconee River, where the enemy were found in some force on the opposite side. Brig. Gen. Giles A. Smiths division (the Fourth) was sent to the railroad bridge, and a l)atta]ion of the First Alabama Cavalry to the crossing on the Balls Ferry road. This battalion succeeded in crossing the Oconee River, but omi proceeding a short distance on time other side were attacked by a strong force of the enemy. They succeeded in holding their position until their ammunition was expended, when they were obliged to fall back, with the loss of 21 killed and wounded. 0mm the next moriming I moved my entire command to the river and found the enemy intrenched at Balls Ferry crossing. I succeeded in efiheting a crossiiig above the road, and sent over about 200 men during the night. Upon this force striking the road, about daylight the next mnorning, they found the enemy just retiring front the river. I)uring the day I crossed my entir Page 148 148 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. command and moved along the railroad to Station 9~, where we crossed the Ogeechee River on the pontoon bridge, meeting no obstructions from the enemy. On the 2d of December we reached Millen, crossing Buck Head Creek, and using the pontoon bridge. Upon strikino the Little Ogeechee River, on December 3, we found the enemy intrenched on the opposite side, their force estimated at 5,000. The next nioruing I sent a skir- mish line of the First Division down to the river, driving the enemys skirmishers across, and upon crossing a force found the works evacu- ated. We continued our march, without illterrul)tion, until the 9th, when we struck the enemy iiear Station 1, where they had a force of infantry, cavalry, and artillery. I)uring this day and the next we drove them without difficulty, up to a point within three miles and a half of Savannah, where we found the eiiemy strongly intrenched. Here I deployed the Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. U. A. Smith com- manding, on the Louisville road, and the First l)ivision, General Mower, on their right, on the south side of the canal. On the 11th instant my command was relieved by the Fourteenth Corps and moved to a posi- tion on the Ogeechee road, where the Third Divisioii was placed in position on the left of the road, with the right resting on the Fifteenth Corps. The Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. G. A. Smith commanding, was sent to Kings Bridge, and furnished details for the building of the wharf on the Ogeechee River and the unloading of vessels. The First Division, Maj. Gen. J. A. Mower commanding, was sent on the Gulf road, and destroyed eighteen miles of the road. I now commenced preparations for the assault on the enemys works, but on the morning of the 21st of December, as mu y arrangements were approaching coin- pletion, the pickets of the Third Divisiomi found the enemy retired from their works, and without opposition we entered the city, where we are now encamped. The opposition from the enemy throughout our entire mnarch was comparatively nothing. The country marched through was well sup- plied with provisions, and the forage parties, as organized in accordance with orders from the army commander, kept the troops well supplied. Our transportation, which on starting was very poor, was brought up to a fine condition by the abundance of forage and by animals captured. My command destroyed 93 miles of railroad and marched 285 miles. There was destroyed by this corps during the march, in accordance with orders, 1,735 bales of cotton. The losses in the command, including 20 of the First Alabamna Cav- alry, during the campaign were as follows: Killed, 1(3; wounded, 73; missing, 19. I forward herewith the reports of my division commanders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK P. BLAIR, Ju., ]JJiajor- General. Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department and Army of the Tennessee. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., January 1, 18G5. CAPTAIN: In accordance with a request from Lieutenant Taylor, I have the honor to make the following statement of work done on th Page 149 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 149 campaign: 26,500 yards of corduroy, 700 yards of bridging, 19 miles of road cut through timber, 2,100 yards of obstructions cleared out. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiu-, FRANK P. BLAIR, Ju., Capt. SAMUEL L. TAGGART, General. Assistant Adjutant- General, Army of SIte Tennessee. No. 44. Report of ifaj. Gem Joseph A. Mower, U. S. Army; commanding First Division. IIDQRS. FIRST DIvISION, SEVENTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, Near Savannah, Ga., December 31, 1864. CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders, I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command during the recent campaign: My division left Marietta, Ga., on the 13th of November, and reached Atlanta the sai~ne day. We again took up our line of march on the 15th, crossed the Ocmulgee River on the 18th, and arrived at Gordon (the junction of the Milledgeville with the Georgia Central Railroad) on the 22d of November. Here we destroyed five miles of the Milledgeville Railroad. We again moved on the 24th and destroyed five miles, and on the 25th four miles of the Georgia Central Railroad. On MIte 26th crossed the Oconee River, and on the 30th the Ogeechee River. December 1, 1864, destroyed five miles of railroad. December 2, crossed Buck Head Creek, encamping at Millen, Ga. December 3, destroyed two miles and a half. December 4, destroyed three miles of railroad. December 5, crossed the Little Ogeechee. December 6, de- stroyed six miles of railroad. December 9, my command had the advance. We found the enemy in position behind an earth-work at the end of a causeway leading through a swamp, the swamp extending around on both their flanks. I detached one brigade, Brigadier-General Spragues, with a section of artillery to engage the enemy in front, whilst I took two brigades (General Fullers and Colonel Tillsons) around the enemys right. The troops waded through a cypress swamp to get to the enemys works. The enemy retired as we approached. We drove them about seven miles, skir- mishing with them constantly, artillery being used on both sides. I lost one of my staff~ officers on that day, killed, Lient. W. H. Llamrick, acting assistant quartermaster. December 10, 1 received an order to effect a lodgment on the sonth side of the canal leading from the Savannah to the Ogeechee River. I succeeded without much oppo. sition, driving a small party of the enemy that were at the canal back to their earth-works, which were about 1,000 yards from the point where I crossed. Skirmishing was kept up during the day; at the same time I semit out reconnoitering parties in every direction, for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the enemys works could be approached at any point excepting in front, where we would have been obliged to pass over an open field some half a mile in extent, should we have attacked them there. The field I occupied was fouimd to be bordered with swamps all around excepting in front. I had a staff officer, Lieutenant OReilly (aide-de-camp), wounded during the day whilst he was with me, endeav- oring to find a position for a battery. That night we threw up a lin Page 150 150 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP LVI. of works about 400 yards from those of the enemy, and had two redoubts constructed for the artillery, which was placed in one of the redoubts during the night. December 11, skirmishing and artillery firing was kept up during the day, and the embrasures of the enemys works choked up by the falling sand-bags, so that they were obliged to use their artillery in barbette. I also put the prisoners to work on the morning of the 11th cutting zigzag roads toward a salient of the enemys works in my rear. Making the road of the brush which was cut down, I felt confident that, if I could succeed in getting roads through the swamp, I should be able to take the enemy by surprise at that point of their works, as they would not be expecting us from that direction, there being from three to ten feet of water in the swamp. I was relieved, however, during the day by General Carlin with his divis- ion, before I had completed these roads. December 12, I moved my command to the right, General Spragues brigade being detached from the division whilst we were en route and ordered to the head of the canal. I went into camp iiear the Kings Bridge and Savannah road, about five miles from the Ogeecltee, where I remained until the 16th instant, when I received an order to destroy that portion of the Gulf railroad between the Altamaha River (including the bridge over that stream) and a point twenty miles this side of that river. My time was limited to five days. This limitation of time would make it necessary for me to march twenty miles per day, and give me one day in which to destroy twenty miles of railroad. I crossed the Ogeechee on the 17th and reached a point on the rail- road ei~ht miles from the Altamaha bridge on the 18th. I had pre- viously applied to General Blair for more time, so as to be able to destroy the bridge over the Altamaha. I received a communication in reply, stating that it would be necessary for me to return in five days, and informing me that the First Alabama Cavalry had been directed to report to me and that I could put them to work on the farther end of the road and the bridge. In the meantime Colonel Atkins, conimand- ing a brigade of cavalry, reported to me for orders. I directed him to destroy the bridge and a trestle-work leading to it. He succeeded in destroying the trestle-work, but it was found impracticable to approach the bridge, as the enemy had two redonbts on this side which it was im- possible to get at, there being a deep swamp all around them. There were also two 32-pounder rifles on the opposite side of the Altamaha enfilading the bridge, and a locomotive, with a gun on it, which the enemy used at this end of the bridge. My orders being imperative to return in five days I was obliged to desist from the attempt at destroy- ing the bridge, as it was utterly impossible to get at it without occupy- ing at least two more days time. The destruction of the trestle-work, however, renders the bridge useless to the enemy. I therefore returimed to camp, where I arrived on the 21st, having marched eighty miles and destroyed eighteen miles of railroad in five days. Amount of railroad destroyed in the campaign, fifty-seven miles. I inclose herewith a list of killed and wounded in the different skir- mishes in which my division has been engaged during the campaign.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. A. MOWER, Miaj. Gen., U. S. TTols., Comdg. First Div., Seventeenth Army Gorps. Capt. C. CAPLE, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General, Seventeenth Army Corps. * Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 officer and 2 men killed; 1 officer and 33 men wounded Page 151 (HAP. LVI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 151 SKETCH OF POSITIOY OCCUPIED BY THE FIRST DIYlSlOiV~ SEVENTRENTH ARMY CORPS, IX FRONT OF THE EKEMYS WORKS NEAR SA TANYA H, GA., OX THE 10TH AXD 11TH OF DECEMBER, 1864. el4~ O,~ Page 152 152 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 45. Report of Brig. Gem Mortimer D. Leggett, U. $. Army, commanding Third Division. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, & tvannah, Ga., December 31, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following as a report of the part taken by my division in the late campaign from Atlanta to this place: We started from Atlanta, with the balance of the command, on the 15th day of November, with fourteen days rations of hard bread and twenty days of sugar, coffee, and salt, an d 190 rounds of ammunition to the man. Before starting from Atlanta I organized foraging parties in each regiment, having one forager for every twenty men and an offi- cer for each regiment. My orders required to be selected men who were distinguished for their physical ability for marching, their per- sonal bravery, and for strict obedience of orders. With a single excep- tion, I heard of no misconduct upon the part of these foragers. They distinguished themselves for their industry and orderly conduct. Although it was thirty-four days from the time we started from Atlanta before receiving any provisions of any kind from the fleet, yet they kept the command well supplied; neither the men nor the animals ever lived better. These foraging parties were frequently obliged to go a consid- erable distance from our line of march, yet but five men of all the for- agers Were captured by the enemy during the expedition. With the exception of occasional very unimportant skirmishes, my command wa~ not engaged with the enemy until we struck the defenses about Savan- nah. Our march was one of the most pleasant ever participated in by this division, for, although we had considerable very bad road, requir- ing the building of a large amount of corduroy, and often heavy details to assist the transportation, and completely destroying twenty-three miles of the Georgia Central Railroad, and destroying all the bridges and culverts of nine miles more, yet the men endured all without a single murmur or complaint, and constantly exhibited an exuberance and hilarity of spirit more indicative of a festive excursion than an exposed and fatiguimjg campaign. On the 10th of December we struck the enemys works about Savan- nah, and my division was placed in position on the south side of the Georgia Central Railroad, where we immediately constructed works, but on the 11th we were relieved by the Fourteenth Corps and took position about one mile farther to the right. On tIme 12th we were moved still farther to the right, and placed in position immediately on the left of what is known as the plank road. This position we found very much exposed, the ground being very level and the enemys batteriCs covering the whole position. We immediately constructed works for the protection of the men and erected batteries to operate upon the enemy. The intervention of a rice field, deeply flooded with water, prevented our using inflintry to advantage. We at omice conimnenced building bridges and collecting boats to facilitate our approach to the enemys line, and were ready to charge the enemny~s works, and await- ing orders to advance, when, about 4 oclock on the morning of Decem- ber 21, we discovered the enemy were evacuating. I immediately ad- vanced, but having much farther to march reached Savannah about temi minutes after the advance of the Left Wing had entered the city from auother direction Page 153 CHAP. LVI.l THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 153 I must make honorable mentioii of Brig. Gen. M. F. Force, command- ing my First Brigade, and Col. ZR. K. Scott, c ominanding the Second Brigade, for the close and soldierly manner in which they have marched and cared for their troops. My losses during the campaign have been: Killed, 2; wounded, 10; missing, 19. Of the missing, Privates John OLahiff, John Ford, Sanford Fail- ing, Mirion D. ilyland, A Company; John Pelz, B Company; James H. Shannon, C Company; Martin Purcell, F Company; Edward Kelly, H Company, and Edward T. Evans, I Company, Seventeenth Wiscon- sin Veteran Volunteer infantry, were captured while straggling in violation of orders. I have issued orders stopping their pay for the whole time they may be prisoners of war, and they will be subject to such additional punishment as may be inflicted by a court-martial when they are returned. When we started from Atlanta my transportation was in bad condi- tion, the mules being very poor and weak, but during the march many of these mules died or were killed to prevent them from falling into the enemys hards and their places supplied with captured mules. We reached Savannah with superb transportationnever in better condi- tion. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. I). LEGGETT, Capt. C. CABLE, Jr., llrigadier-General. Assistant Adjutant- General, ASe rentecuth Army Corps. No. 4~J. Report of Brig. Gen. Manning F. Force, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade, of operations December 2. HDQRS. FIRsT BRIG., THIRD Div., 17TH ARMY CoRps, In the Field, Ga., December 2, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that I struck the railroad at Station 9, at the beginning of dawn this morning, and worked thence to Buck Head Creek, destroyimig in each mile a section the length of the brigade, all trestles and culverts, burning the depot and tanks, a considerable amount of new ties and prepared timber, amid a fiat-boat loaded with cord wood. In the sections destroyed the ties and stringers were burned and the rails bent. A pile of rails near the road was also bent by fire. A small section of quadruple track west of Station 9 was also destroyed. No cotton was found. The road was extremely intersected with culverts and small trestles. Some of these were banked up and the track partly excavated, in the hope that risiug water might destroy it. I regret to say that the trestle nearest Buck Head Creek may not be thoroughly destroyed. It was reached at the close of the afternoon, and was thought at first to be needed for the crossing of troops. I never saw men work more honestly. They toiled zealously on the track ten hours, with one short respite for coffee. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. F. FORCE, Brigadier- General. Comdg. First Brigade, Third Division. Capt. C. CABLE, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General Page 154 154 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 47. Report of Brig. Gem Giles A. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Division. SAVANNAH, GA., December 31, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report as follows respecting the movement and operations of the Fourth Division, under my command, during the campaign which closed with the occupation of Savannah: On Saturday, the 12th day of November, 1864, being encamped at Marietta, Ga., in pursuance of orders received from Major-General Blair 1 proceeded with my command to destroy the portion. of the Atlantic and Western Railroad allotted to me, being from Big Shanty south to near Kenesaw Monntain; and on Sun day, in pnrsuance of orders, moved toward Atlanta, which place we reached on the following day, and on Monday ~Tnesday], the 15th, started with the remainder of the Seventeenth Army Corps in a southeasterly direction toward Savan- nah or any other place. The command reached Ocmulgee River on the 18th, crossing in the same night on pontoon bridges, and arrived at Gor- ilon on the 21st ultimo, which was occupied after a short skirmish with the enemy by my advance, the First Alabama Cavalry. On rfuesday, the 22d, I was ordered by Major-General Blair to proceed with my division and Colonel Spencers First Alabama Cavalry to the railroad bridge across the Oconee, between Stations 14 and 15. The cavalry having the advance drove in the enemys skirmishers from a stockade about two miles from the bridge. The ground near the bridge being very swampy it could only be approached by the railroad. The enemy were posted behind a second stockade, with iimthntry and artillery. Colonel Potts, commanding First Brigade, was ordered to detach two vegiments and drive them across the river. One piece of artillery from Lieutenant Hurters First Minnesota Battery was taken down the track by hand to assist. After a short skirmish this was accomplished, and two miles of trestle-work destroyed and about three miles of track, but the enemy could not be dislodged from the opposite side on account of the inaccessibility of the swamp. On the 25th the remainder of the corps reached Balls Ferry, six miles below, where I rejoimied them. and time next day crossed the Oconee River on pontoons. Oim Thursday, De- cemuber 1, the Ogeechee River was crossed, and the next day the coin- mand entered Millen. The next eight days we marched toward Savan- nah, destroying railroad track anti removing obstructions in the roads, and on the 10th of December reached the works of Savannah, forming line across the Georgia Central and Savannah and Charleston rail- roads, near their junction, three miles from Savannah. The enemy disputed our advance all day, and we met with some loss in gaining our position. 0mm the night of Tuesday, December 20, the emmemy evacuated Savannah, and on the 21st our troops took possession, where we are now encamped. From Atlanta to Savannah this division marched 300 miles, and thor- oughly destroyed twenty-four miles and a half of railroad track, includ- ing four miles and a half of the Atlamitic and Western Railroad, amid two miles of trestle-work. The pioneer corps, Capt. J. H. Davis, Forty-first Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry, comn)allding, constructed seven miles and 300 feet of corduroy road, built 600 feet of bridging, made 150 fascines, built one fort for guns at Oconee River, cut six miles of wagon roads, and removed fallen timber and obstructions fromn 600 yards of road Page 155 CHAP. ISI.1 ~P11E SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 155 The health and condition of the men at the close of the campaign Was excellent. The following is the arnonnt of stock captnred: Horses, 165; mules, 291; total, 456. The followiiig is the list of casualties during the campaign: Commis- sioned officers wounded, 2; enlisted men killed, 5; wounded, 12. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GILES A. SMITH, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. Capt. C. CADLE, Jr., Assistant Adjutant. General, Seventeenth Army Corps. No. 48. Report (4 Capt. Henry Duncan, Fifty-third Indiana Infantry, First Bri gade. HDQRs. FIFTY-THIRD INDIANA VET. VOL. INFANTRY, Savannah, Ga., January 1, 18G5. LIEUTENANT: In obedience to orders, I hereby submit the following report of the part taken by the Fifty-third Indiana veteran Volunteer Infantry in the late campaign: We left camp at Marietta, Ga., with the other regiments composing the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, on the 13th day of November, 1864, at 8 a. in., and reached Gordon, the junc- tion of the Milledgeville and Georgia Central railroads, November 21, 1864, where, by order of Col. B. F. Potts, the regiment performed pro- vost guard duty. Left Gordon November 22, 1864, and reached the railroad bridge across the Oconee River November 23, 1864, about 4 p. in., where the enemy were found in position on the opposite side of the river with artillery. On the morning of the 24th I was ordered to relieve the Twenty-third Indiana at time bridge, which I did by deploy- lug three companies as skirmishers or pickets, holding the remainder of the regiment in reserve. The pickets kept up a brisk fire during the day, and at dark were ordered to attempt the destruction of the bridge by fire but the enemy opened such a terrific fire of canister and musketry that they were compelled to desist. TIme trestle-work con- necting with the bridge, however, had been set on fire in several places and was partially destroyed. The casualty during the affair was one man wounded so as to make amputation of his right leg necessary. Novem- ber 25, 1864, at 7 a. in., we moved, via Station No. 15, to the Oconee River, which was crossed on pontoons. We arrived at the Ogeechee River I)ecember 1, 1864, which was also crossed on pontoons, and the regiment assisted in destroying railroad track. Again, on the 7th, the regiment was engaged in destroying track at Station No. 7, which, with a few hours work before crossing the Oconee River, comprised all the work done on railroad, and will, in my opinion, amount to two miles of railroad destroyed by the regi- ment. On the 10th of December the regiment was the advance of the Seventeenth Army Corps, and encountered time enemys pickets and drove them within their works three miles from the city. We threw up barricades about 500 yards from the rebel lines, and held them until relieved by a regiment from the Fourteenth Army Corps and moved to a position on the right. December 13, were ordered to escort a forag Page 156 15f OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. rOHAP. LVI. train, and started about 3 p. m. of that day, crossed the Ogeechee River, and after loading the train twenty-seven miles from the city, returned to Kings Bridge and were engaged in unloading steamers until the 24th of December, when we entered the city of Savannah. In conclusion, I will say that the march was a very pleasant one; our foragers kept us abundantly sdpplied with potatoes, pork, poultry, & c., and with the exception of a few cases of measles the health of the regiment was remarkably good. A few days before leaving Marietta we received 185 drafted men from the State of Indiana, and for raw recruits they stood the march far better than I supposed they would. The following is a list of casualties during the campaign: Died of disease, 4; wounded, 1 (privates). All of which is respectfully submitted. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. DUNCAN, Captain, Commanding Regiment. Lient. A. S. KINSLOE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 49. Report of Ma]. Gem Henry W. Slocum, U. ~. Army, commanding Lefi Wing, of operations ASeptem ber 29December 21. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, ARMY OF GEORGIA, ~S~avannah, Ga., Jannary 9, 1865. CAPTAIN: I have the honor of submitting the following report of operations of the Fourteenth and Twentieth Corps dijring the recent campaign: By virtue of Special Field Orders, No. 120, headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, November 9, 1864, the army, then in the field near Kingston and Atlanta, was divided into wings, the Fourteenth and Twentieth Corps constituting the Left Wing of the army. Prior to this organization these corps had formed a part of the Army of the Cumberland, nnder Maj. Gen. Georoe II Thomas, the Fourteenth under command of l3vt. Maj. (ien. J. C. l)avis, and the Twentieth Corps under my command. After the capture of Atlanta the Twentieth Corps occu- pied the city and the line of works constructed by the enemy, and was engaged in the construction of a new line of works designed to enable a small garrison to hold the place. Heavy details were constantly employed in this work from October 5 to November 1. On the 29th of September General Morgans division of the Fourteenth Corps moved by railroad to Chattanooga and Huntsville, to protect our communica- tions, which were then threatened by General Forrest. The other two divisions moved with the main army in its operations against the enemy under General Hood. On the 24th of October General Morgans division r~joined the corps at Gaylesville, Ala. On the 2d of November this corps was concen- trated at Kingston, Ga., where preparations were made for the cain- paign just closed. On the 13th of November it was engaged in the destruction of the railroad from Etowah River to Big Shanty, and on the 14th moved to Atlanta. 1)uring this movement the Twentieth Corp Page 157 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 157 was left for the defense of Atlanta. The hospitals of every corps of the army, containing many of our sick and wounded, were located within the line of works constructed by the enemy; and the nature of the movement of our forces operating against General Hood had also compelled the commanders of every corps to leave at this point a por- tion of their artillery, together with all surplus transportation and stores. in addition to the troops and stores belonging strictly to the Twentieth Corps, there remained at the post 12,700 wounded, sick, and convalescent soldiers, eighty pieces of artillery, and over 5,000 horses and mules, together with much other valuable property. The duty ot protecting this property amid securing supplies for the garrison and forage for the animals devolved upon the Twentieth Corps. At the time our railroad communication was destroyed at Kingston and Big Shanty, the amount of subsistence stores on hand was deemed amply sufficient to sustain the garrison until communication could be re-estab- lished; but it was subsequently found necessary to send a portion of these supplies to the main army at Rome. The supply of forage on hand was not sufficient for the animals for over three days. I was, therefore, compelled not only to reduce the issue of meat to a half ration, but to resort to the country for supplies of subsistence as well as for- age. From the 10th of October to the 4th of November foraging expe- ditions were sent into the country, all of which were completely suc- cessful, and conducted with but small loss of life. About 2,000,000 pounds of corn and a large quantity of fodder were collected on these expeditions, together with subsistence for the foraging parties. Great credit is due General Geary. Colonels Robinson, Dustin, and Carman, the officers commanding the several expeditions; also to Colonel Gar- rard amid the brigade of cavalry under his command. The Twentieth Corps left Atlanta on the morning of November 15, marching via Stone Mountain and Social Circle to Madison, arriving at the latter place on the evening of the 18th. At that point General Gearys division moved to the Oconee and destroyed the railroad bridge over that river, the other divisions moving direct to Milledgeville via Eatonton, Gearys division rejoining the corps at Little River. The corps reached Milledgeville on the 22d of November. Two regiments were sent forward to~ take possessiomi of the city and establish the nec- essary guards. The Fourteenth Corps left Atlanta on the mornimig of November 16 and moved, via Decatur, Covington, and Shady Dale, to Milledgeville, arriving at the latter place November 23. The Georgia Railroad was destroyed by the Fourteenth Corps from Lithonia to Yellow River, and from Social Circle to Madison by the Twentieth Corps. It was also broken at several poimits between Madi- son and the Oconee River, and the bridge at that river burned by Gearys division of the Twentieth Corps. On the 24th of November both corps moved from near Milledgeville to Sandersville, the Fourteenth via Black Spring, and the Twentieth via Hebron. The two corps reached Sandersville almost simultaneously on the morning of November 26, driving the enemys cavalry very rapidly through the town. On the 27th both corps moved toward Louisville, two divisions of the Fourteenth, unencumbered by wagons, going via Feuns Bridge for the purpose of protecting our left flank and to uncover the crossing of Ogeechee River and Rocky Comfort Creek at a l)oint near Louisville. Two divisions of the Twentieth Corps moved along the Georgia Central Railroad, from Tenmiille to the Ogeechee River, destroying the road and bridges. The remaining division o Page 158 158 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. each corps, with all the trains, moved on an interior road direct to Louisville. The bridges over the Ogeechee and Rocky Comfort Creek had been destroyed by the enemy, but a pontoon bridge was soon con- structed by Colonel Buell, and on the 29th both corps were encamped near Louisville. Two divisions of the Fourteenth Corps left Louisville December 1, crossing Buck Head Creek five niiles above the church, and passing through Habersham, reached Jacksonborough on the 5th. Bairds division moved from Louisville in support of the cavalry, and made a demonstration iu the direction of Waynesborough, rejoining the corps at Jacksonborough. The Twentieth Corps left Louisville December 1, crossing Buck Head Creek at the church, and passing through Birdvilie struck the railroad leading from Millen to Augusta, five miles from Millen, and encamped on the 5th near Hunters Mills. From Jackson- borough the Fourteenth Corps moved toward Savannah on the Augusta and Savannah road, the Twentieth Corps taking the road through Spring- field. On the 10th of December my command reached the main Line otthe enemys works in front of Savannah, and took position, the Twentieth Corps on the left, with its left resting on the Savannah River, the Fourteenth on the right and connecting with the Seventeenth Corps beyond the canal near Lawsons plantation. Our line was established as close as possible to that of the enemy, and the time spent in prepa- ration for an assault upon his works. Batteries were established on the river in such positions as prevented any boats from passing. The steamer Ida, while attempting to pass up from Savannah, on the 10th of December, was captured amid burned. On the 12th two gun-boats and the steamer Resolute attempte(l to ~~55 our batteries from above but both gun-boats were driven back by Winegars battery, and the steamer was so disabled that she fell into our hands. She was soon repaired, and has since been transferred to the quartermasters department. On the 18th a brigade of the First Division, Twentieth Corps, was throwim across the river, amid established near Izards plantation, on the South Carolina shore, imi a position which threatened the only line of commu- nication still held by the enemy. A bridge in the meantime had been constructed by the enemy from the city to the South Carolina shore, and on the evemming of December 20 he comuinenced the evacuation of the city. The muovement was discovered at 3 a. m. on the 21st, and muy comnmamid was at omice moved forward and occupied the city. For a more detailed account of each days operations, I respectfully refer you to the reports of Maj. Gen. J. C. Davis, comnmanding Four- teenth Corps, and Brig. Gen. A. S. Williams, comnmamiding Twentieth Corps, together with the reports of the subordinate commnanders, all of which are herewith inclosed. So far as active opposition on the part of the enemy was concerned, there was hardly an event worthy of mention in a report of this nature. The omily real ammnoyance we expe- rienced was from the destruction of bridges, and the obstruction of roads by fahlemi timber, and these obstacles were very readily overcome. The conduct of the officers and men on the march is worthy of the highest praise. They endured the fatigues of the mmmarch with cheer- fulness, amid were ever ready, even at the close of a long days march, to use the ax and spade in removing obstructions and repairing roads and bridges. The result of the campaign proves comiclusively the practicability of subsisting large bodies of troops upon the enemys country. After leaving the section of country near Atlanta, which had already bee Page 159 CHAP. LVI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 159 foraged upon by both arnijes, we experienced no difficulty in obtaining sup1)lies for both men and animals. Even the most unproductive sec- tions along onr line of march yielded enough for our support so long as the march could be continued from day to day. It was thirty-four days from the date my command left Atlanta to the day supplies were received from the fleet. The total number of rations required during this period was 1,360,000. Of this amount there was issued by the sub- sistence department 440,900 rations of bread, 142,473 rations of meat, 876,800 of coffee and tea, 778,466 of sugar, 213,500 of soap, and 1,123,000 of salt. As the troops were well supplied at all times, if we deduct the above issues from the amount actually due the soldier, we have the approximate quantities taken from the country, viz, rations of bread, 919,000; meat, 1,217,527; coffee, 483,000; sugar, 581,534; soap, 1,146,500; salt, 137,000. The above is the actual saving to the Gov- ernment in issue of rations during the campaign, and it is probable that even more than the equivalent of the above supplies was obtained by the soldiers from the country. Four thousand and ninety valuable horses and mules were captured during the march and turned over to the quartermaster~s department. Our tramisportation was in far better condition on our arrival at Savan- nah than it was at the commencement of the campaign. The average number of horses and mules with my command, including those of the pontoon traimi and a part of the Michigan Engineers, was 14,500. We started from Atlanta with four days graimi in wagons. Estimnating the amount fed the animals at time regulation allowance, and deducting the amount on hand on leaving Atlanta, I estimate the amuount of grain takeu from the country at 5,000,000 pounds; fodder, 6,000,000 pounds; beside the forage consumed by the immense herds of cattle that were drivemi with the different columns. It is very difficult to estimate the amount of damage done the enemy by tIme operations of the troops under may conmmnand during the cam- paigim; 119 miles of railroad were thoroughly aimd efihetually destroyed, scarcely a tie or rail, a bridge or culvert, omi the entire line being left mu a condition to be of use agaimi. At Rutledge, Madison, Eatonton, Milled geville, Teummille, and IJavisborough, machine-shops, turn -tables, depots. water-tanks, and mauch other valuable property were destroyed. The quantity of cotton destroyed is estimated by my subordinate com- manders at 17,000 bales. A very large number of cotton gius and presses were also destroyed. Negro memi, women, and children joined the column at every mile of our march; niany of them brimiging horses and males, which they cheerfully turned over to the officers of the quarter- masters department. I think at least 14,000 of these people joined the two columns at different points onthe march, but mammy of them were too old and infirm, and others too young, to endure the fatigues of the march, and were therefore left in rear. More than one-half of the above num- ber, however, reached the coast with us. Many of the able-bodied men were transferred to the officers of tIme quartermaster amid subsistence departments, and others were employed in the two corps as teamsters, cooks, and servants. Twenty-three hundred stand of smnall-arms, and a large quantity of powder, were captured at Milledgeville. Fifty-one pieces of artillery were abandoned by time enemy, on his evacuation of Savannah, on the line in front of my command. Thirty-eight pieces in addition to the above were also foumid in works first entered by the Twemitieth Corps. A very large amoumit of ordnance stores was also found in and about the city Page 160 160 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. Bvt. Maj. Gen. J. C. Davis, commanding Fourteenth Corps, and Brig. Gen. A. S. Williams, commanding Twentieth Corps, were during the entire campaign constantly with their troops, and were energetic and zealous in the discharge of every duty. The Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, under command of Col. George P. Buell, organized as pontoi4iers, and a portion of the First Michigan Engineers, under Maj. J. B. Yates, accompanied my command, and were at all times most efficient in the discharge of the arduous duties imposed upon them. I append herewith a statement of casualties, and also a statement of prisoners captured.* I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. SLOCUM, Major- General, Commanding Left Wing, Army of Georg4a. Capt. L. M. DAYTON, Aide-de- Camp. Report of casualties in Left Wing, Army of Georgia, during the recent campaign. Killed, wounded F Missing Prisoners captured. ~ Corps. F u SC I Fourteenth 1 12 F 1 9 F 117 115 115 Twentieth 1 11 5 83 1 164 65 dO 294 324 Total 2 2~3~ 6 11 1 28~ 40 3O~ 409 439 No. 50. Report of Col. George P. Buell, F~fty-eighth Indiana Infantry, command ing Ponton iers. HDQRs. PONTONIERS, LEFT WING, ARMY OF GEORGIA, Savannah, Ga., January 7, 1865. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command during the campaign from Atlanta to Sa- vannah, Ga.: November 13, 1864, my command destroyed the railroad bridge over the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta, Ga. l4tli,in oved my command to and encamped within the city limits, and equipped the same with twenty days rations and forage. 15th, in accordance with orders, sent one-half of my train (440 feet of bridge complete) and four com- panies of my regiment, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Moore, with the Twentieth Corps. The remainder of my train, with six companies, commanded by myself, marched from Atlanta the morning of the 16th with the Fourteenth Corps, moving on the Decatur road. 17th, after a march of twenty miles threw two bridges (120 feet each) over Yellow River. 18th, in the afternoon took up one of my bridges, moved it for- ward to the Ulcofauhachee, where it was rethrown; the remaining bridge over Yellow River, being ordered forward under charge of Major For map accompanying this report, see Plate LXX, Map 3 of the Atlas Page 161 CHAP. LYIl THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 161 Dowiiey, reached my camp late iii the night. 19th, dismantled the bridge over the Ulcofauhachee aiid marched eighteen iiiiles during the day. 20th, 21st, and 22d were passed in rnarclnn~ 234, reached and encamped in the city of Mihledgevihle. 24th, marched at 9 a. in., mov- jag on the road to Saudersvihle. 25th, moved forward a few miles to Buffalo Creek; over this stream we threw a pontoon bridge and also built one small trestle bridge daring the night. 26th, took np die pon- tooii bridge and marched the same day to Sandersvihle, a distance of ten miles. 27tl~, sent Major Downey, with two companies and 120 feet of bridge, to report to General Baird, whose division marched on the extreme left flank. The remainder of my command moved on the river road from Louisville with Generals Carhins and Morgans (hivisions of the Fourteenth Corps. 28th, continued our march to Louisville; reached there the same evening; fonud Colonel Moores bridge thrown over the large Ogeechee, and Major Downeys thrown over the small (Jgeechee River, near Louisville; finished corduroying the swamps on either side of the Ogeechee River. We remained in camp near Louis- ville until the afternoon of December 1. December 1, niarched at 1 p. in., going a distance of twelve miles on the roa(l to 1~Jihlen. 24, continued our march the whole day. 3(1, in the morning threw two bridgesone over Buck IJea(l Creek and also one over Rosemary Creek; took the same bridge up in the evening and marched six miles on the road to Jacksonborough. 4th, marched all (lay an(l camped near Lumnpkins Station, on the Waynesborough rail- roa(l. 5th, marched twelve nmiles and camped on Beaver l)am Creek and by 10 oYloek at night we built one trestle bridge over Beaver l)am Creek for Generals Baird amid Kilpatrick. 6th, marched seventeen immiles. 7th, marched twenty-five miles, reaching Ebenezer Creek; commenced bnildimm g a trestle bridge over Ebenezer Creek, working my mneim all night. 8th, finished the trestle bridge in the morning and also threw a pontoon bridge over Lockners Creek, fiur miles in ad- vance. 9th, took up both bridges amid moved forward during the imight toward Savannah. 10th, continued our march. 11th, marched six miles and camped near the Savannah River, within six miles of Savannah City; Lientenant-Colommel Moore rel)orte(l and rejoimmed my comumamid with his detachment. 12th, 13th, 14th, iStIm, 16th, and 17th, remained iii camp idle. 18th, niade 700 fascines dunn time (lay, night, and part of the 19th. 20th, received orders to throw a pontoon bridge from Argyle Island to the main South Carolina shore; worked all night, boating my material to the point, and had time bridge half completed wlmemi orders were received to take it up and nmarch into Savammnah, on the morning of Decemmiber 21, 1864. My command, consisting of about 900 nien amid 600 mules, started from Atlanta with four days forage and twenty [days] rations. My mcmi and mules lived well throughout the whole campaign amid had been in Savannah several days before we drew rations from time U. S. Government. My emitire command was in better conditiomi when it arrive(l in Sax-annahi thami when it heft Atlanta. Before closimig this report I desire to tender my thanks to Lieutenant- Colonel Moore and Major 7? & wmmey, each of whom ably commanded detachments of regiment, displaying a (legree of emmergy and presever- amice entitling them to special notice. Capts. James M. Smith and C. C. Whitimmg ren(1 ered very important services in their l)ositions as coin- m amid ers of pommtoom sections. Capt. Woodford Tousey, commissary; 11 H HVOL XLI Page 162 162 OPERATIONS iN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL Lient. Zachariah Jones, aide-dc-camp; Lient. Horace A. hail, aide-de- camp, anti Lient. Henry Torren cc, acting assi stunt quartermaster, deserve credit for their energy and pronll)tness. lit coiiclusion, I would state that great credit is due to officers and men of the regiment for the manner in which they con(lncted them- selves throughout the entire campaign. Ai though many times, after a liar(1 days march, they have had bridges to build or roads to repair, they were always on hand. Praise is likewise (Ille my officers awl men for the good (liszil)Iifle retained throughout the entire itiareli. For the particulars of the operations of Colonel Moores detachment I refer you to his report, herein inc1osed.~ Recapitulation: Cordnroyed, 2,000 yards; pontoon bridge by day, 690 feet; trestle bridge by day, 260 feet; trestle bridge by night, 1,030 feet; fliscines made, 700; mules, 600; men, 900. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. P. BUELL, Colonel, Commanding. Lient. Col. H. C. ROD~EIIS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Left TYing, Army of Georgia. No. 51. Report of Lient. Col. Joseph Moore, P~fty-eiyk th Indiana Infantry, corn inandiuq section of Pontoon Train. IIDQIIS FIFTY-ETh~HTH INDIANA VOLUNTEERS (PONTONIEns), Ga ASarannah, ., January 6, 1& 65. Sin: I have the honor to submit the following report of the amount of bridging done by that portion of the Fifty-ei~-hth Indiana \olun- teers under my command during the late campaign from Atlanta, Ga., to this point: My command consisted of four companies of the Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, effective force 220 men exclusive of teamsters, and a train of forty -one wagons, including baggage and sn~)~)ly train, and hauled about 440 feet of pontoon l)ridge. November 15, at 7 a. m.,in accord- ance with orders received, I moved my train out on the Decatur roa(1, reporting to Brigadier-General Williams, (ommalidin g Twentieth Army Corps. I rentained with this corps during the campaign. I had no bm-idging to do until we reached Little River, twelve miles north of Milledgeville. November 20, we put a pontoon brid~e across Little River of ten boats, making 220 feet of bridge during the night of the 20th of November. November 24, we put a pontoon bridge across the channel of Buffalo Creek. This bridge took three boats, and was eighty feet in length. I also repaired live bridges at this point by repairing the trestles that had been burned oft; and using balk and chess for covering. These bridges were 360 feet in length. I also rel)aired two bridges at the same flat or swamp, 120 feet in length, using timber l)rocnred front the woods, making the whole length of bridging at this point 560 feet. November 28, we reached Ogeechee River about 1 p. m. and found the bridge across the river burned, and seven others across the swamp, which was near three-quarters of a mile in width. I 1)llt a pontoon bridge across the river, using five boats aitti making 110 feet of bridge. I also set my men at work anti cut a See next, poet Page 163 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 163 new road across the swami), which we had to corduroy from the river through the entire swamp. November 29, during the night we built two small trestle bridges, sixty-five feet in length, across Big Creek, three miles south of Louisville. From this on we had no more pon- toon bridges to lay, but we traveled through a country that was very level and swa1n~)y, and I had 100 of my men daily detailed, under charge of Capt. William E. Chappell, of this regiment, to march iii advance as pioucers to corduroy swamps atid repair bridges, and clear (lilt the timber which had been felled in the roa(ls at every swamp by the enemy. There were a good many small bridges built, not, however, worth reporting. On the 10th of December we reached a point five miles fioni Savan- nah, and on the 13th I received orders to report to Colonel Buell, then commanding the other section of the train. Recapitnlation: Whole number of pontoon-boats put down, 18, mak- ing 410 feet bridges; balk and chess used to bnild bridges on trestles, 360 feet; trestle bridges built, 185 feet; total, 955 feet. Respectfully submitted. JOSEPH MOORE, Lien tenant- Colonel Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers (Jomdg. Section Pontoon Train, Left lYing, Army of Georgia. Col. GEORGE P. BUELL, (Jonunanding Pontoon Train. No. 52. Report of Bet. Miaj. Gen. Jejt~rson C. Dae is, U. S. Army, commanding Fourteenth Army Coq)s. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH An~iv Conps, Saiannah, Ga., i)ecember 31, 1841. COLONEL: * On the morning ot the 15th [November] the corps reached Atlanta and bivouacked in the suburbs of the city. The reinaimider of the day and night was spent in issuing clothing to the men, filling up empty wagons with provisions, equalizing and assigning trains to the different coni- nma.nds with a view to rapid marching. On time nmornin~- of the 16th the head of the column marched on the road leading to Covington, through Decatur, and made an average march of fifteen miles. 0mm the 17th, muov- ing in time same order of march and destroying the railroad from Lith- onia to Yellow I~i~~er, time corps wemit imito camp on time west bank of the river and vicinity late in the evening. During the night Colommel Buell, commanding pontoon train, laid two excellent bridges across time river, an(l early on the morning of the l8tlm the a(lvance was resunmed. Passing through Covingtomm the whole commnalm(l went into camp dnring time afternoon omi the Ulcofauhachee River. The bridges were repaired across the stream, amid the march resumed at (laylight on time mornino- of the 19th, in the direction of Eatonton, 1)y time way of Shady Dale, in the vicinity of which place the whole command encamped for the night. On time 20th tIme corps marched for alm(l went imito cammip near Eaton- ton factories. Time advance of the Twemitietim Corps from Madisommville, For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North (leorgia and North Alabama, see ~Tol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 614 Page 164 [CHAP. LVI. 164 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. on the main Milledgeville road, required a (lefleetion to the right in the movement of my column in or(ler that the two corps shonid move on separate roads, and, in compliance with orders from the general-in-chief, whose headquarters moved with my (olllmn on this part of our cam- paign, I ordered the head of the (~olumu in the direction of Milledge- yule, by the way of Farrars Mill on Murder Creek. Owing to the heavy rain which had fallen during the night aiid was still pouring down 111)011 us, the progress of Oni. trains was exceedingly slow, and the inoht of the 21st was spent in mud and water, crossing Murder Creek. On the 22d the weather partially cleared off, and the corps marched and went into camp in the vicinity of Cedar Creek. On the 23d the weather cleared off, and the roads having (lrie(1 up so as to be quite 1)assable for trains, the whole command marched and went into camp in the vicinity of Milledgeville by the aft.erioon. The Twentieth Corps had already reached the city the evening previous, trouut the (hirectioui of Ma(1i5011- ville. On tIme 24th Carlins amid Morgans divisions, with their trains, (Tossed the river and went into camp a 1P~v uliles beyond the bridge, PrePar1ltory to the adx-ance upon Sandeusville. This l)lac(~ was reached on the 2($th after two days oood marching, the head of the cohuuu reaching due towuu about tile same tune as (lid the Twentieth Corps. A part of Wheelers cavalry was han(lsomely (Iriven froni the town by the advance skirmishers of the two corps. NOvember 27, the corps traimus, nu(lCr escoit of Carlins division, nioved by the way of Davisboroughi upon Louisville, while 13air(l5 amid Moi- gans divisiom s, ii nenubarrassed w-itlu trains, moved On the Fem l11~5 l3ridge road, thus protecting our left thank front amuydemonstratioiis the emuetnyS cavalry might nuake from thuat direction upon our trains. Those two divisions, under conunuamud of Brigadier-General Baird, marching on a road betweem u thu e 0 (icecllee River a 11(1 Rocky Colulfort C reek, reach ed Louisville early iii the afternoon of the 2Stli, and imme(liately laid a pomu- toon bridoc across tIme creek atud commenced the passage of troops. ()wing to the muovenuents of time Twemutieth Corps and trains ocenpylug the main road from l)a.visborough to Louisville, Carlins division and my corps trains mumoving omi that moad were only able to reach theOgeechee about 3 p. m. Colonel Buehls pontomiiers immediately commemuced lay- ing their bridges amid repairing the roads destroyed by the enemy, under the 1)emsoiu~1 supervision of the general commanding the wing, and before night the troops nn(1 trains were passimmg both streams into their camps arourud Louisville. The road, runnimug as it does here through an imnimuemuse cypress swamI), required con siderable labor to put and keep it in eon(litiou tom the passage of trains, and it w as not until noon the next day that the entire column succeeded in getting into its camps. Early on the mornimug of the 29th I received, from a staff officer, a report from General Kilpatrick, comumanding the cavalry, that hue had succeeded in cutting the road at W aynesborough and burned the rail- road bridge across Bmier Creek, and that on his return line had beemi for several days huard pressed by Wheeler. lie also reported his cOinumuan(1 about temi mules from Louisville, ~u the road leading direct to Buck head bridge. At his request I immuediately semut a brigade of infantry from BaiAs division, coummuamuded by Col. Morton C. hiuminter, to his support. lie, however, experienced less difficulty titan was a1)prehended, and, ~oiimimmg mny coinlnan(l (lurilug the day, wemut into camnp on the east side of Big Creek, sul)ported l)y Colonel Hunters brigade, umitil the general advammee ~x-as resumed Decemuber I. Noveniber 30, nmy troops occupied the same 1)osition, skirmuishmimig with the emiemy s cavalry, who mad Page 165 CHAP. LYI.1 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 165 Neveral pertinacious attempts to drive iii 0111 J)iCkCtS, exce1)t General Carlins (ii V15i01I~ which, in compliance with orders from wing head- quarters, lnarche(l to Sebastopol, with a view to uncovering the cross- ing ot the Ogeechee hy other troops advancing iii that diiection. i)eeember 1, in the general advance of the army upon Millen my geiieral ilistructions required my column to cross Buck 1-lead Creek at sonic point between Waynesborough and Birdvi]le, for which place the Twentieth Corps was moving. Buck Head bridge, near the church of that name, was designated as my objective point, and Baird, with Kilpatrick~s cavalry, was ordered to move in the direction of Waynes- borough, and, after crossino Buck Head (reek, to move dowit the east bank and takc~ position near Reynolds, not far from the church. This Kilpatrick and Baird accomplished by the afternoon of the 2d. Mor- gans (hivision, in charge of the whole corps train, moved on the (lirect road to Buck Head bridge and encamped ten miles front Louisville. On the 2(1 Carlins division joined the column front his flank movement in the directiomi of Sebastopol, and the corps went into camp at the cross- ing of the Birdyihle and Wayitesborough roads, about two miles from the bridge. The change in the direction of march of the Twentieth Corps again caused a deflection in my line of march, and on the morn- mn~ of the 3d [ canse(i pontoon 1)ridges to be laid across the creek at a point abont five miles higher up the stream, an(l coummuenced crossing my trool)s amnl trains at 10.30 oclock. ~lacksonl)oroughm had by this time been (lesignated by the general commanding as time next objective point for the concentratiomi of my corps, and I ordered Baird and Kil- l)atrick to move from Reynolds in the direction of Waynesborough, with a view to leading the enemy to believe that our next advance would be upOit Angusta. Carlin an(l Morgan, after a llar(l days work npon tlte roads, went into camp at Lumpkins Station; Baird and Kil- l)atrick took position micar Thomas Station, where the emmemnx- was found in considerable force. 1)ecemnber 4, Carlins and Morgan~s divisions, with the corps trains, after destroying three miles of railroad, moved iii the direction of Jack- somiboronghi, through llabershamn, aJI(l encalIll)e(1 on the thrmn of Mrs. Smith, thirteen miles fr( mm Lumpkimus Stati ( )i i. Baird amid Ki Ipatrick, after some lighting with Wheelers cavalry, (Irove the enemny from Waynes- borongh and across Brier Creek. Baird, imi the mimeantinie, destroyed three mniles of railroad near Thomas Station. The ~th, after a hard (laYs march over country roads which required mnuchi repairing, the whole orps, with Kilpatricks cavalry, en camnpc& 1 imi the vicinity of dacksomu- borough, the advance at Buck Creek Post-Office. I)uriiig the itight the bridge across Beaver Dam Creek at Jacksonborommgh, which hmimd been destroyed, was rebuilt by Colonel Buell, and early on the mom ning of the 6th the whole column marched omm the river road, an(1 wemit into camp at amid in advance of Hudsomms Ferry, makimig ami average immarch of abomit twenty miles. Deceniber 7, the colummi mnove(l in the same order of march; Baud amid Kilpatrick, unencumbered by the trains, covered the rear. Morgans divisiomi and the poittoon train reached Ebemmezer Creek late in the evenimig, and went immne(hiately to work cut- tiimg away time fimhien timber which obstructed the roadway throngh the miumense swamp which skirts the creek oit both si(les at tlmis point. The poittommiers, under Colonel Buell, set to work at once, notwithstaiid- ing an exceedingly hard days march, to reconstruct the bridge, amid by noon the next (lay the colummi commenced crossino this formidable defile. Notwithstanding time imnmnense amoumut ot labor Cxl)Cflde Page 166 166 OPERATIONS IN ~. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. upon the road and bridge to make theni 1)a.ssable, much was still re(1uired to keep them in condition, and it was not until daylight th~ 9th that the rear of the column had complctcd the crossing. During the 8th the enemys cavalry made several attempts to drive in our rear pickets, but did not succeed. The loss on our side during these attacks was but slight, although at times the skirmishing was quite animated. On the morning of the 9th, marched from camp at lEbenezer Church to Cuylers plantation, where General Morgan, who was in the advance, found the eiiemy occupying a strongly erected field- work, disposed to dispute his advance. General Morgan immediately placed a couple of field pieces in position ami opened fire upon the work. His infantry was soon deployed for an attack, but the near approach of night and the impossibility of assaulting the position through the impassable swamp in our front caused me to defer the attack until morning, when it was discovered the enemy had abandoned his position. December 10, advanced Morgans and Carlins divisions with trains to the Ten-mile house and went into camp, giving the road to the Twentieth Corps advancing from Monteith and intersecting the Augusta road. Bairds division was ordered to cover the rear and tear up the railroad track in the vicinity of the crossing at the Savannah, amid, if possible, to destroy the bridge at that point. December 11, moved down the Augusta road to the position of the Twentieth Corps in front of the ene:nys works, amid received orders to relieve the Seventeenth Corps in its 1)OsitiOn on the Louisville road and in the vicinity of the Ogeechee Canal. This was done, and by the 12th the whole corps had takeii position in front of the enemy, my left conmiecting with the Twentieth Corps near the Savannah and Charlestomi Railroad, and my right con- necting with the Seventeenth Corps beyond the canal, near Lawtons During the intervening days between the 12th and 21st, at which time the enemy evacuated his position, my troops were assiduously engaged in skirmnishing with the enemy, reconnoitering his position, and making gemmeral preparatiomis for the attack. Five points in my front had, several days before the evacuation, been well reconnoitered and pronounced accessible to an attacking party. This information was duly forwarded to the general comniandin g. For further infornia- tion concerning the position of my troops and the enemys works and approaches to them I have the homior to refer the general cominandin g to the accomupanying map,* drawn by my chief engineer; it is, I think, perfectly accurate. December 21, it was discovered that the enemy had evacuated his position in our front, and the report of my chief of artillery shows twenty-eight pieces of artillery of different calibers cap- tilre(l. My provost-niarsltals rel)ort shows 689 able-bodied ii egroes over (Ige, in turned to the quartermasters department at Kinos Bri compliance with special orders fromut headquarters Military l)ivision of the Mississippi. This number does not imiclude a large number retained in the differemit commands as officers ~ervants, pioneers, & c. I would respectfully submit the following statistics, which have beemi collected front the reports of the difiercuit departments, and are as near correct as can be compiled from such data: Forty-eight in iles of rail- road track an(i four large and inlI)ort.ammt l)ridges upon the Chattanooga ammd Atlanta, Atlanta and Augusta, Savannah and Augusta, and Georgia Central railroads were thoroughly (lestroye(l. A large amoumit of cotton, estimated by division coninianders at about 12,000 bales, was also destroyed. Seventeen hundred amid seventy draft aiid saddle ~ Not found; but see Plate LXX, Map 3 of the Atlas Page 167 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 167 animals, and, according to the report of the corps coninussary, about 1,500 cattle and several hundred sheep were captnre(l. About 1,340 negroes, mostly able-bodied itiales, followed the column; 115 ContPderate prisoners and 34 deserters front the enemy were taken. The corps quartermaster estimates that about 1,000,730 pounds of fodder and about 1,474,834 pouiids of grain were obtained from the country. What aniounts of provisions for the men were obtained by the foraging 1)arties constantly out from the diffi~rerit brigades of the command it is impossible to state with accuracy. L~rol)ably the nearest approximation which can be given will l)e to state that the corps left Atlanta on the 16th day of November with but seven and one-half days supplies of the substantial ration. It arrived before Savannah I)ecem- ber 11 with about five days in the wagons, only three and one-half days having been issued and lost during the march. Of the smaller articles, such as coffee, sugar, and salt, a much larger 4uantity w-as issued. For the rest the corps subsisted entirely upon the country thron gli which it passed. Sweet potatoes, which were found by the hundreds of bushels, were the principal and most unfailing article of diet. for officers and men; but flour, meal, sorghum, poultry, & c., were found in great abundance. The list of casualties during the time above reporte(l is as follows: 13 killed, 30 wounded, an(l 94 missing. (See tabular list appended.) Considering the active operations of the corps since the beginning of the campaign agaitist Atlanta from Chattanooga the 1st of May last, I am proud to report its excellent condition and efficiency. To the division commanders I desire to express the many obligations I ani under for their co-operation throughout the campaigns above (lescribed, and to express the hope that the War Department will soon make suitable acknowledgments of their thithful services. Their reports are herewith submitted, and attention asked to them for many details omitted necessarily in this. Since the entrance of our troops into Savannah the corps has occu- pied its l)ieselit camp southwest of the (ity, making preparations for a resumption of active operations whenever called upon. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant., JEF. C. DAVIS, Breret Major- General, Corn mu an ding. Lient. Col. II. C. RODGEImS, Chief ~)J. I~t(qJ, Left IViuy List of casualiws in the Fourteenth Army Corps during the campaign against Saran uali, Ga. ()luniissione(l officers. Enlisted own. Divisions. Missing. Killed. Wounded. Killed. WOlilidQd. First 1 2 7 ~l7 5t-eo~ol 1 7 1(i 57 Titirdo 1 Total 1 1 l2~ 29 a Missing not. given. ri~~l, in. JEF. C. 1)AVIS, Bre ret Major- General, Cumin anding Page 168 1C8 OPERATIoNS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. iNo. 5:3. Report of Brig. Gem William P. (Jarlin, U. S. Army, con~manding First Dicision. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, & UUUUU1?, Ga., January 6, 1(?65. COLONEL * On the 15th [Novemberl I reached Atlanta, leaving the Thirteenth Michigan Chattahoochee bridoc with o estroyit after the at ~, rders to d ~)assage of all our troops and traii~s. This order was carried out by Lieutenant-Colonel Palmer, cOmnlalt(liug the regiment. On the 16th I niarched from Atlanta, via I)ecatnr, to Lithoina, twenty miles. Oh the 21st 1 marched to Yellow River, destroying five miles of the Georgia Railroad. The march was continued through Covington to ilarils I)lantatioll, where we turned sonthwar(i toward Shady I)ale aiid oii to M ille(lgeville, where we arrived on the 23d. On the 24th we crosscd the Oconee, and marched on San(lersville, arriving there oh the 27th. On the 28th we arrived at 1)avisborongh. Continuing the march due east through Louisville, we struck the Augusta and Milieu Railroad at Lumphins Station, and destroyed three miles ot railroad, all the build- ings, ilatforms, wood, & c. Marching on eastwar(l we struck the Savannah and Augui sta road near the Savannah River, and turiued southward. On the 11th of 1)eeember I arrived 1)efore Savannah and took posi- tion on the right of the Louisville road, relieving Mowers, Leggetts, and G. A. Smiths chivi~ions, of the Seventeenth Corps. This position was maintained with more or less skirmishing till the 21st instant [ultimno], when my advance entered the city of Savannah. Several days before the evacuation by ilardee 1 recolnmen(led an attack in Pont of my division. My total loss (luring the campaign in killed, wounded, missing, and (leaths by disease is as Ibllows: Commissioned officer, wounded, 1; en- listed men, killed, 2; wounded, .7; missing, 37. It is impossible to state accurately how much cotton was destroyed by my men, but it woul(l probably amount to 10,000 bales. None was left in the conntry on our line of march. It is estimated that this division (lre~v from the country on the march at least 120 00() ratiQhls, worth to the United States at least ~34i,000; lt(i horses and 204 imules, total 320 head, were seized by this division an(l used br public pur- poses. The estimate of rations by the commissary of the division, I ani sure, is nuder the mark. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. CAlILiN, Brigadier- General, (Jommanding. Lient. Col. A. C. MCCLURG, Asdsta at A (1)11 t(( at- General, Jldqrs. Fourteenth Army Cor:ps. Foi portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations iii North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 616 Page 169 (HAP, LVI. THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 169 No. 54. Report of Col. Harrson. C. Hobart, Twenty-first Wisconsin L(fantry, comm an ding First Rrt ~ia (IC. HDQRS. FIRST BRIO~, FIRST Div., 14TH ARMY CORPS, Near Sarannak, Ga., i)ecember 31, IRG-1. CAPTAIN :* On the istli day ot November, during the afternoon and night, I clothed n~y troops an(l made all possible preparations for the cain- paign which terminated in the fall of Savannah. On the morning of the 16th my brigade marched in advance of the division. l)uriiig the day we passed through Decatur, and, taking the upper Covington road, we eiicamped for the night at Lithonia. On the following morn- ing we resumed our march, and at 12 m. of the 18th I camped my coin- mand four miles east of Covingtoii and forty-four miles east of Atlanta. After passing Decatur we found forage in great abundance, a sufficient quantity of which Was gathered by my foraging parties to supply my whole command. Near Yellow River the brigade destroyed two miles and a half of railroad. November 19, we again resumed our march, and on the 28d day of November I camped my troops about one mile from Milledgeville. On the morning of the 24th my brigade marched through Milledgeville, and, crossing the Oconee River, we took the Saiidersville road and reached Sandersville on the 27th. Here I received orders from General Davis to hold the town until all the trains of time Four- teenth Army Corps and General Kilpatricks trains had passed, amid then follow as an escort. About 7 p. in., the traimis having passed, I ordered my 1)ickets to rejoin their commands, and withdrew from time town. Front Sandersville my brigade formed the rear guard until we reached Louisville, November 29. At Sandersville the Eighty-eighth Indiana lost one man, captured by a squad ot rebel cavalry. On time 30th my brigade, in advance of the division, matched from Louisville on the road leading to Station No. 10, and camped thti-ec miles east of Sebastopol. From this point the command marched to Lumpkins, a station omi the Augusta railroad, where we bivouacked during the night. The next morning, Decembei- 4, my brigade destroyed omme mile amid a quarter of railroad, after whicit we marched in time (hirection of the Savaminah River, amid striking the river roa(l, we mnam-ched (lowit toward Savannah. Nothing of importance occurred. XVe reached oimr tirst positiomi before the city December 11. itere 1 relieved a division of the Seventeenth Army Corps, amid threw up works along my whole front. About 4 p. m. December 12, by order of General Carlin, I moved my bri- gade to the right, crossed thte Ogeechee Canal, an(I relieved Gemmeral Smitits divisiomt, Seventeenth Army Corps. While holding this position (with a front of more thami two miles) I forwarded 1 prisoner of war cap- tured by the One hundred and fourtlt Illinois in a light skirmish at time Lawton farm, and 27 deserters, who came through my hues omt the night of the iStIt of December. During the night of the 20th of i)ecember the rebels evacuated the city, and early the mmext morning may skirmishers crossed the swamps and rice fields ut my front, and took possession of their works, capturing 3 prisoners. There were 10 pieces of ordimance left by the rebels in my front, including two 64-pounders. During tite day I moved my brigade over on the Lawton firm, amid memnaimmed until the next morning, when I mnarched to this camp. For portioll of report (here omitted) relut.iiig to operations in North (icorgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, hut I, p. (317 Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., ANI) ILA. [CHAP. LVI. Casual ties have beci ifrom the Eighty-eight ii Ii idia i ta \olunteer Infantry, 1 man cal)tnred Thirty-third Ohio \ohinteer Infantry, 1 mall wounded and 1 man missing; total ,3. Number of miles of railroad destroyed, 5~ number of horses and mules captured, 110; number ot cattle captured, 500. Forage taken from the country: Corn an(I oats, 50,00() pounds; long forage, 52,000 pomids; total, 102,000 pounds. Supplies for officers and men: Bread- stuffs, 41,000 pounds; l)otatoes, 55,000 1)ollnds; meat, 47,000 pounds; beans and rice, 4,800 pounds; sugar, 7,200 poiHids; molasses (sorghum), 30 barrels; or, subsistence for 1,500 men for forty days. As the conduct of the brigade during the caulpaigiL was (olistantly under the eye of the general comnianding the (livision, F close this re- port simply with the foregoing narration of facts. I have the honor t~ be, captaili, very respectfully, your obe(lient servant, H. C. HOBART, Co Ion el, Corn ma nding. Capt. G. W. Si~um, Actg. Asst. Adjt. (sen., First Div., Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 55. Report of Maj. John H. Widmer, One hundred and fourth Illinois In fa ntry, of operations September 7December 21. -HEADQUARTERS 104Th ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS, Near Sacanuak Ga. December ~9 1864. CAPTAIN: In compliance with circular receive(1 to-(lay, I have the honor to submit the ~llowing report: At the fall of Atlanta this regiment was near Jonesborough, Ga.; thence it moved to White Hall, where it went into camp on the 7th of September, and remained till the 3d ot October, during which time its principal operation was resting. From the 3d Lhlitil the 00d day of October the regiment, with the brigade, was almost conQintly on the march in pursuit of General Hoods army thron ii ~ om thwestern Georgia and into Alabama as far as Gavlesville. Thei e it lemaine(l until the 28th of October. On tIme 29th it arrived at 1\olue Ga., and on November 2 at Kingston. On the 12th day (it NovuIlb( i it left Kingston, reaching Atlanta on the 15th. The next mom anig 4arted for Savannah, arrivim ig in front of the city 011 the 11th must imut aiid in the city on the 22d, having had a first-rate time on the way here. From the fall of Atlanta to the fall of Savanmmah the regiument has been constantly on duty with the l)rigade. The only time it has been engaged with the enemy since the 3d of October was in a light skir- muish at Lawtons farm, in front of Savannah, resulting in the cal)ttlre of one rebel and (lriving their Ilickets across the rice fields in our Iioiit. We have not lost a single man siiice the fall of Atlanta. On the march from Atlanta to C aylesville and back the regiment drew from the country seven days subsistence for 110 men (except sugar and coffee), consisting of macat, flour, meal, beaus, and potatoes, an(l on the march frommi Atlanta to Savannah drew from the same source not less than twenty-five days subsistence for 215 men (except sugar and coffee), consisting of fiesh beef; pork, poultry, flour, meal, potatoes, turnips, rice, beans, honey, sorghum, and molasses. It ha Page 171 CKAP. LVJ.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 171 also drawn from the conutry 75~)00 pounds ot corn and 75,000 1)OUlldS of long forage, captured 14 mules, 9 horses, employed on the mardi twenty negroes from tho country, and destroyed 1,600 yards of rail- road. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, JOhN H. WIDMER, i1I2~~or One hundred and Jon rth Illinois Infantry. Capt. JOHN M. FORD, Aety. Asst. Adjt. (Thu., 1st Brig., 1st Div., 14th Army Corps. No. 56. Report qf Lie ut. Col. Cyrus B. Brie ut, Eighty-eighth Indiana Infantry. Official repoi~ of the part taken by the Eighty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteers in the campaign of the Army of Georgia from Atlanta to Savannah: After clothing my regiment and cutting down the baggage to the least l)ossible compass, I left Atlanta on the 16th day of November, 1864, with 248 guns and 14 officers, in a(lvance of the Fourteenth Army Corps. Passing Decatur about 9 oclock, we took the upper Covimmgton road, halting for dinner on Snaptinger Creek. Three miles farther brought us to Pole Bridge Creek. Froum this point time country was more open, but soil apparently poor. halted for time imiglit at Lithonia. November 17, my regiment train guards. Our route lay along the rail- road, passing Conyers, a i)oSt village iii Newton County. We halted early near Yellow River. Forage plenty, especially corn, sweet l)ota- toes, and sorghum molasses. November 18, crossed Yellow itiver on Pontoons; banks muddy; passed through Covimmgtou amm(l imalted four nules east on a large plantation about noon; lay in camp till morn- ing. November 19, Second and rphird l)ivisions passed ours (First); marched on the Eatontoim road. The first part of our nmarch was through the Ulcofauhaclmee swamps and was necessarily slow; after noon roads were excellent. Caump for the night one mile east of Sandtown. No- vemuber 20, Inove(l at daylight; country richer, buildings better, and plantations larger; forage of every description itt great abundance. halted for (hummer near Shady Dale. 37he l)mol)rietor of the plantation estimated his individual loss by our army at ~50,000. here we left the Eatomiton road to our left, taking a central course between Monticello and Eatonton, halting eight miles front Eatonton; rained all night. November 21, still raimming; roa(ls cut up considerably by the advance wagon trains, amid by mmoon we got along very slowly, halting for the imiglit somne seventeen ummiles from Milledgeville. November 22, crossed Mur(ler Creek on a very dilapidated bridge, wagons and horses fording near by; creek up to wagon beds, recemit raimis having swelled it. My regimemut was detachmed to guard cross-roads at Half Acre, with orders to hold the place until the emmtire wagon traimi had crossed tile creek. By 2 p. mu. I left with mny regimnent to join tIme divisiomm, going by way of Cloptons Mill. I louli(l them elmcamnl)c(1 micar Cedar Creek; roads passa- ble by evening-. November 23, mny regiment traimm guards to-day. March through an excellent country; forage abnmmdant, especially s~veet potatoes and sor- ghmmnm muolasses. l}y 4 p. in. we were emicamnped within time fortiflca~ tions of Mihledgeville; roads excellent to-day. November 21, passe Page 172 172 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. through Milledgeville; crossed ()conee iUver. We took the Sandersville road, crossing Towii Creek seven miles from Milledgeville, near where there was a good grist-mill. Marching five ii~iles farther, we encamped about ~ p. m. on Gum Creek, rciiiaining all iiiglit. November 25, lay in (amp all clay; Second aiid Third Divisions passed us. The forage party from my regiment discovered rebel cavalry near large bridge on Buffalo Creek, but hn(ling enough forage they did not let themselves be known. November 26, marched at 6 a. in., hut on the advance wagon train reaching Buffalo Creek we moved but slowly, and by 9 oclock we had crossed the Rig an(l Little Buffalo Creeks and swamps and were encamped near Keg Creek. November 27, crossed Keg Creek and swamp; passed through Sandersville; my regiment stationed on out- post on Worthen road, where three roads diverge. L sent omie company forward on each of these roads. About dark some contrabands [came in] aiid reported rebel cavalry in our front on the main road, and [that they] had already captured some of our troops. I immediately sent another company in support, but nothiimg fhrtlier was heard from them. One of the captured men proved to be Williamii Budd, private of Com- pany G, of nmy regiment. 7 p. in. J was relieved and took position in rear of division wagon train, halting for the night seven miles east of Sandersville. November 28, in~~ reoiment train guards; crossed Ma- con and Savaniiah Railroad near Powers Station; crossed William- sons Creek and swamp on double bridge near I)avisborough, halting for the night near Ogeechee River. November 29, crossed Ogeechee River on pontoons; bridge and trestle-work over swamp being burned, the passage was difficult. One mile farther brought us to Comntbrt Creek and swamp. which we tbund as difficult to cross as the river. Passing Louisville, we halted about noon on Maryfield road. My foragers had excelleimt success to-day; meat, l)otatoes, corn, molasses. Novem- ber 30, marched on Sebastopol road, crossing Big Creek and swamp; eight miles farther passed i)ry and Spring Creeks. 3 p. in. passed Sebastopol Station and camped three miles east on the MilIeu road, my regiment on picket. December 1, marched on Sebastopol and Waynesborough road, about one mile from the maiu road, occupying this position until wagon train all passed. My foraging party, numberimig thirty-two mcii and oiie officer, were attacked some five miles out. by a squad of rebel cav- alry, but succeeded in getting oft with a goodly sil~)ply of forage and 110 loss. l)ecemnber 2, marched on the Waynesborough ioad some distance, then east on Millen road, halting vicar Buck Head Creek. De- cember 3, marched north on Jones Mill road, thence imortheast to Buck Head Creek, the bridge over which being bunted, we crossed on pontoons. One muile farther we crossed Rocky Creek, mnakiming a detour in a southeast direction. We halted for dinner on Rosemary Creek; from thence to Lumpkiifs on the Augusta railroad, where we halted for the night. December 4, my regiment tore up omme-quarter muile of track, burning the ties amid bemiding the iron. Crossed the railroad at Lumpkins, taking an easterly direction through a very poor coumitry, sandy and marshy; tow-ard evening passed Ilabershammi, haltiiig two miles east. December 5, my regimnemit train guards. Our course lay through the headwaters of Beaver T)am Creek amid the Ogeechee River; low places along our route marshy and difficult of passage for wagons. Leaving Jacksonborough to our left we went toward Sylvania. De- cember 6, crossed the Middle Ground road, four miles north of Sylvania, at one of the branches of Buck (reek. Tile road was blockaded with felled trees which inIl)e(led our moareb some. L~assed Black Creek 1~ost Page 173 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 173 Office, also Black Creek and swamp, halting tbr the night fifty miles from Savannah. Forage, which had been scarce since leaving Lump- kins, was more plentiful in this neighborhood. I)ecember 7, our iiiarch greatly impeded by fallen timbers and bridges burned across creeks. December 8, more especially at Ebenezer Creek, which the enemy had destroyed, blockading the road across the swamps. While a iiew bridge was being built the enemy attacked the skirmishers of General Baird~s division. My regiment was imiimediately throwim into l)osition, in the rear line of brigade, and threw up logs, & c. At 11 p. in. my regiment crossed Ebenezer Creek, and halted near the chni~cli. i)ecember 9, moved from Ebenezer, crossing Ebeiiezer Creek. lloa(ls blockaded, bridges, sloughways, & c., torn up or burned along our entire march to-day; halted sixteen miles from Savannah. December 10, marched to the main road; passed a rebel redoubt near Fourteen Mile- stone; halted about noon ten niiles front Savannah. I)ecember 11, marched toward tIme front, crossing the Charleston and Savannah Rail- road, also the Macon an(l Savannah Itailroad, to the Middle Ground road, near which my regiment built, breast-works. l)ecemnber 12, moved at 4 p. in., crossing the Ogeechee (anal. I relieved with my regiment the Fifty-second Ohio Volunteers of Seventeenth Army Corps, who were on picket in front of the Lawton firm. I held this position until I was relieved by an Iowa regiment from the same brigade I had relieved. December 19, I moved with my regiment to rear line and camped near canal bridge until morning ot 1)ecember 21, when I moved with my regiment in rear of brigade and encamped with it on the Law- ton farm, moving next day into Savannah. Total miles marched, . RECAPITULATION. In forage: Corn Long forage Casualties: William Budd, private. Company G, captured by the enemy, Sandersville, November 26, 1864. I left Atlanta November 16, 1864, with 248 guns and entered Savannah December 22, 1864, with 268 guns. I sent two men to general hospital (luring the campaign and both were sick before leaving Atlanta. My command captured and 90 she turnedi over during campaign 70 head of cattle, ep, 20 hogs, 5 horses, amid 21 mules. After marching something over 300 miles my regiment entered Savaimnah in better health, spirits, and condition in every respect, with the exception of clothing ammd more especially of shoes and stockings.. The saving in supplies to Government durimig the campaign by my regiment amounts to: Pounds. 8,000 8, 500 Total 16,500 In rations: Breadstnffs 9, 300 Meats 7, 000 Beans or rice 800 Potatoes 11, 100 Sugar 1, 400 While the above is a fair estimate of the savings to the Government the loss to the enemy may safely be l)ut down as at least one-third additional in rations and one-half in forage. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servammt, C. E. BRIANT, L jent. (!ol., Command infi Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteers Page 174 174 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 57. Report of Lient. Col. Joseph If. Brigham, ~Sixty-ninth Ohio injhntry, commanding Second Brigade. IIDQRS. SECOND BRIG.. FIRST Div., 14Th ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., December 30, 1864. CAPTAIN: In compliauce with circular dated headquarters First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, December 99~ 1864, I have the honor to submit the following report: Miles of railroad destroyed Cotton gins destroyed 5 Cotton destroyed (300 bales) pounds - 150, 000 Horses captured 50 Mules captured 60 Cattle captured 250 Negroes that followed the column 40 Corn captured pounds - 62,000 Rice captured - - .do.. - 18, 000 Oats captured do~. -. 1, 400 Fodder capttlre(l do... 13, 084 Hay captured do. - - 5, 133 From the organization of the brigade up to the fall of Savannah the meu were issued five days rations; the rest of the time they subsisted off the country. The Second Brigade was organized November 16, 1864, at Atlanta, Ga., and assigned to the First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, with which it marched to this place, a distance of 293 miles, passing in its route through Decatur, Lithonia, Conyers, Covivigtou, Sandersyille, Louisville, Milledgeville and st Station. , riking the railroad again at Lumpkins I have the honor, captain, to be, your obedient servant, J. 11. BRIGHAM, Lieu ten a itt- Colonel Sixty-u/n th Ohio, Commanding. Capt. G. W. SMITH, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Div., Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 58. Report of Lieu t. Col. Da rid hues, & centy-ni nt/i I en n~yl cania Infantry, comma n ding Third Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD BRIcT., F lRST Div., 14TH ARMY CORPS, Year Savannah, Ga., December 31, 1864. Arrived at Atlanta the 13th [November]. Ilere the Sixty-ninth Ohio an(l Thirteenth Michigan Veteran Volumiteer Infantry were taken from the brigade and ordered to the Second Brigade, First l)i- vision, Fourteenth Army Corps. Drew clothing, and equipped the un- armed men of the comm amid. November 16, left Atlanta, marching on the Augusta road, and camped at Lithonia Station on the Augusta and Atlanta Railroad. 17th, marched through Conyers Station, and was engaged several hours destroying railroad. November 18 Col. H. For l)ortiou of rcI)ort (lore omitted ) relating I o operations iii North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 6I~ Page 175 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 175 CHAP. LVI.] A. Hambright bciiig unfit for duty oii accouiit of sickness, Lieut. Col. 1). Miles took command of the brigade. November 18 to 23, marched to Milledgeville, capita.I of the State. November 24 to 27, marched to I )avisborough Station, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad. Novem- bei~ 28, marched to Louisville. November 30, marched to Sebastopol, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad. 1)ecember 1 to 3, marched to Lumpkins Station, ou the Savannah an(l Augusta Railroad. December 4, part of the day the brigade was engage(l destroying railroad; was rear guard to the wagou traiii, and slurimshed with a small body of cavalry who were hovering in the rear, but with no result. December 5 to 8, marched to Ebenezer Swamp, where we formed line of battle to protect the traimi while crossing the swamp, and at midnight marched two miles and camped on east side of the swamp. December 9, resumed the march, but coining upon a small party of the enemy posted in a smuall fort protecte(l with artillery, went in line for the night. December 10, the enemy fell back (luring the night and we resumed our march until the evening of the 11th, when we took up our position in line in front of Savannah, relieving part of the Seventeenth Army Corps. here we remaimmed until the 21st, during which time nothing of note occurred save regular skirmishing, which was kept up between the pickets but with no loss whatever on our part. December 21, the enemy disappearing from our froimt, the brigade was ordered forward to discover the whereabouts of the enemy, if possible, but meeting with no o~)position whatever, marched into the city at 8 a. in., amid, pursuant to orders, returned to our old l)osition, where we remaimmed during the night. I)ecember 22, marched forward and went into camp on west side of the city. During the time mentioned in this report the brigade destroyed about 14 miles of railroad; no cotton nor cotton gums were (lestroyed; 22 horses, 64 mules, and 200 cattle were captured by the command; 69 negroes followed the colummi. From the time we left Lithonia until our arrival at Savannah nearly enough forage was gathered by the command to supply them iimdependent of the issues of the commissary. The loss in the command during the time mentioned in this report is as follows: 1 man wonmuded; 6 men either killed or captured by the enemy; 10 men captured by the enenmy. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obediemut servant, 1). MILES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. G. W. SMITH, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Dir., Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 59. Report of Capt. James H. Low, Thirtyeighth Indiana I~fantry. IIDQRS. THIRTY-EIGHTIL INDIANA YET. VOL. INFTY., year Savannah, Ga., December 29, 1& ~. LIEUTENANT :* November 16, the regiment, with brigade, marched from Atlanta, umioving on road leadimug to Augusta, bivouacking at Litimonia on the railroad leading from Atlanta to Augustit. rElIC 17th, continue(l nmarch, *For portion of report (here omitte(l) relating to operatiohl8 in North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 619 Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAr. LVI. assisting in destroying railroad above mentioned at a point iiear Yel- low River; crossed same and passed through Covington ou the 18th, going into camp. On this date, Colonel Hambright having been taken quite sick, the command of the brigade devolved upon Lient. Col. I). Miles, Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Inflintry, and subsequent operatioiis of the regiment coining under your personal observation, I ~shal1 be as brief as possible. November 19, regiment continued march, moving in a southerly direction, passing through Milledgeville November 24. After this place, passed through Sanders- yule November 27. November 28, crossed Georgia Central Railroad. November 29, passed through Louisville. Continuing march, reached and assisted in destroying Augusta and Savaniuah Railroad at a point between Wayn esborough and Alillen. December 7, came into main Augusta and Savannah road running uiear and parallel with river, which was followed until arriving near and going into position in front of enemys works, about four miles north- west of Savannah and south of canal, ID ecember 11, 1864, remaining in or uiear this position until the 17th, when it and brigade relieved the Second Brigade. From this date till the enemy evacuated, the com- mand remained coiistautly in this position, u~ight of the 20th. The 22d, regiment went into camp in its present position. Besides the railroads which the command assisted in (lestroying, not to exceed two miles, no other species of property was (lestroyed. I have no nueans of ascertaining the number of animals captared, but believe that a rough estimate would include not exceeding 2 horses, 15 mules, and from 5 to 10 head of cattle. Except the servants employed by officers (not exceeding fifteen) I do not know of others being otherwise employed or the nunuber that followed the coIuullan(l. For the campaign, inclu- sive of the time that the report is utmade to cover, I believe that not exceeding one months whole rations were issued, the command sub- sisting exclusively oft the country to supply deficiencies. Very respectfully, your most obedient, J.ll. LOW, (lapta in, Corn dy. Tb irty-eiyhth In (li(( an 1 etera it Vol. Ii~fantry. Lient. L. G. BornE, Acty. Asst. AdJt. Gen., 3(1 Brig., 1st Dic., 11th Army Corps. No. (10. Report of Lient. Col. Arnold ~lIcMPhan, Twenty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations September 3December 21. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST REGIMENT Onio iNFANTRY VOLS., Saran nah, Ga., December 30, 1864. SIR: In compliance with orders dated December 29, 1864, head- quarters Third Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, I have the honor to report the oi)erations of the Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Infantry Volunteers, undei- my command, from the 3d day of September, 1864, to the 21st day of December, 1864: After the defeat of the enemy before Jonesboronghm, (-ha., September 1, 1864, my command returned to Atlanta and went into camp on the 8th. It remained in camp until the morning- of October 3, whenit moved with its brigade upon the campaio-n which resulted in the fall of Savannah on the 21st of time present month. I estimate th Page 177 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 177 distance marched during this time to be at least 630 injips. It was difficult to ascertaiii the exact distance marched over by-roads and through the country. The regiment exchanged shots with a squad of the enemy on the 4th day of December, near Lumpkins Station, with- out any result except to check their attempt to annoy the rear of our column. From the 12th to the uight of the 20th of December the pickets ot my regiment were engaged with those of the enemy before Savan- nah. During this campaign the regiment destroyed three miles of rail- road, and this was the only structure destroyed by my command. At least 8,000 rations were used by the men from the products of the country, which were necessary in addition to subsistence furnished by the commissary department, but the meat used, which was (Irawn from the country, was not less than 15,000 rations. This estimate does not include the great waste of meat and other foraged subsistence which could not be transported or was abandoned by the uiien each morn- ing. I estimate the stores wasted or abandoned equal to the amount llse(l. Twenty-one horses and mules attached to the regiment were supplied with forage taken from the country for twenty days. Twelve negroes accompanied the regiment to Savannah, having joined us on the march. Twelve horses and 18 mules were captured, but many of them were comparatively worthless. Six prisoners of war were captured and turned over to provost-marshal Third Brigade, First l)ivision, Fourteenth Army Corps. The regiment lost 1 enlisted man wounded and 10 enlisted men were captnred; 6 enlisted men were either killed or captured straggling. My regiment entered the city of Savannah at 9 a. in. December 21, 1864. Respectfully submitted. A. McMAHAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Lieut. L. G. BoDIE, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 1st Die., 11th Army Corps. No. 61. Report of Ma~j. Robert P. Pindley, AS~erenty-jourth Ohio Infantry. CAMP SEVENTY-FOURTH OHio, Near & umaniwh cia., December 30, 1864. Sw: I have the honor, in absence of Major Fisher, who comman(led the Seventy-fourth Ohio from Kingston to Savannah, Ga., to make the following report: Left Kingston at noon of the 12th [November], marching iii rear of wagon train; camped at Cartersville at night, The 13th, marched to Big Shanty, tearing up railroad. On the 15th arrived at Atlanta, halted for the night, and drew rations and clothing. Marched on the 16th to Litlionia, twenty-four miles distant from Atlanta. Our course lay northeast, and nothing of importance traIisJ)ired until the 23d of ~ovemnber, when we camped near Milledgeville. On the 24th we marched, crossin ~ Oconee River. and making bnt ten miles, when we camped at 12 m. on account of large swamp in our way. Here the Seventy-fourth was l)laced on ])icket, and so remained until the morn- ing of the 26th, when we took imp our march in rear of wagon traimi. Marched that day but about six miles. Thus we marched various dis- tances per day, according to swamps aiid bad roads, nothing of imnpor. 12 H HVOL XLi Page 178 178 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. tance transpiring, and our regiment being engaged in nothing worthy of note, until the , when we settled down in front of Savannah, along the Ogeechee River. Lay in line until the horning of the 16th of l)e- cember, when the regiment received orders to report to Captain Clark, to guard wagon train to Kings Bridge on the Ogeechee River. Lay at this post until the 22d, when we returned with train and reported to our brigade. Major Fishier was mustered out on the 18th, and I assumed command on that day. We drew rations l)ut for two (lays (luring the march. Owing to our being in rear we twice had no forage, but when we marched any con- siderable distance we had more thami enough of i)ork an(l potatoes. I think it would have been no hardship, so far as the Seventy-fourth was concerned, to have made the march without dra~ving a cracker or any l)Ork. Certain I am that enough was left in camp almost every day to have subsisted the regimeiit during the day had it been carrle(l along, but the men argued that sufficient unto the meal was the evil, and wouldnt carry anythimig from camp. We destroyed about four miles of railroad since leaving Kingston. Am not snre that the Seventy-fourth set fire to any cotton or gins. Ten negroes caine into the regiment and followed along with the colunin. Captured no cattle, nor horses, and but two mules. All the forage for the Government mules, private horses, and the pack-mules of diffhrent companies, was taken from the country, and much more was destroyed than was used. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. P. FINDLEY, Major Seventy-fourth Ohio. Lient. L. G. BornE, Actg Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 11th Army Corps. No. 62. Rq)ort of Maj. Michael H. Locher, Serenty-niuth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations October 3flecember 21. HDQRS. 79TH iREGT. PENNSYLVANIA YET. VOL. JNFTY., Near & uannah, Ga., December 30, iSGI. SIR: In accordance with circular from headquarters Third Brigade, (hated December 29, 1864 1 make the tWiowing report of operatiomis of the Seventy-ninth liegimnent Peunsylvam iia Veteran Volunteers from the fall of Atlanta until time Pill of Savann alt, Ga.: The regiment was encamped at Atlanta, Ga.. until October 3, 1864, when we were ordered to mnove w-ith the coml)s. Marcimed with time (Orp5 dmiring the 3d, 4th, ~th, 6th, and 7th of October, when I was ordered to report muy command to Captain Swift, superintendemit of repairs omi railroad, of whom I received orders to assist imi repairing the railroad between Kenesaw Moutitaimi an(l Ahlatoona, at which the command was engaged until October 19, whtemi tlc.~ repairs were comn- l)leted. On the 19th rebel cavalry lna(le their apl)earance oLltsi(le the picket-limies, cut the telegraph, aml(l captured four eldiste(l mimemi of time cOmnniall(h. I immimnediately sent omit a (lctachmellt under (!~apta.in McBride but the enemy had retreated. After time (letaclmmucmmt returmied to camup, I received orders to report to General Vandever, comnmnami(limlg District of Marietta, at Marietta, to which place the regitnemit l)roceede(l by railroad. At Marietta the regitimemit formne(l part of the garrison, and L)erfolnied patrol and provost duty until November 1:3, when we receive Page 179 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 179 orders to rejoin the corps on its arrival at that place. On the arrival of the corps I reported my command and accompaiiied the corps to Atlanta, where we arrived on the 15th instant. On the 16th we moved again, taking the Angusta road, and marched to Lithoiiia Station, on the Augusta railroad, a distance of eighteen miles. November 17, miiarched to Yellow River, a distance of thirteen miles, and worked seven honrs destroying the railroad. The regiment assisted destroy- big abont two miles of track. November 18, the regiment formed the advance gnard of the column, and marched a distance of eight miles, the regiment being on picket dnring the night. One enlisted man on (ltlty with brigade foraging party cal)tnred by the enemy. November 19 to 23, marched to Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, a distance of fifty-five miles. November 24, marched to Town Creek, a distance of ten miles, where the division encamped nutil the 26th. November 26 and 27, marched a distance of twenty-four miles to near I)avisbor- ()ngh Station, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad. Regiment went on picket. November 28 to December 2, marched to near Buck Head bridge, a distance of fifty-one miles. Regiment on picket duty during night of 2(1 instant. December 3, marched to Station No. 1, on the Augnsta an(I Savannah Railroad, a distance of ten miles. I)ecember 4, worked three hours (le- stroying railroad and assisted in destroying two miles of track; marched a distance of six miles. December 5 to 7, marched a distance of forty- six miles; dnring this march the cavalry, covering the rear, were engaged with the enemy. December 8, marched a distance of three miles, and formed line of battle to cover the train until it crossed Ebe- nezer Swamp; remained until nmidni gut, when we muarched to east side of the swamp, a distance of two miles. 1)eceiimber 9, marched a distance of seven miles, when we found the emmemy posted with artillery and infantry. The regiment was sent out as skirmishers with om-ders to dislodge the enemy, but the order to advance was coumitermanded and the regiment remained on picket duty. l)ecember 10, the enemy fell back during the night, and to-day we advanced four miles. December 11 marched eight miles and went into position in tront of Savannah, relieving a portion of the Seventeenth Army Corps oii the Ogeechee Canal, where we remained until the 16th, wh en we were ordered into camp. On the 16th one man, detailed to drive cattle, was captured by the enemy. December 19. relieved the Tweiity-first Michigan, of Second Brigade, in the front line, where we remained until the mnormung of the 21st, when the regiment was ordered on the skirmish line, i~ehieving the Thirty-eighth Indiana. At daylight it was discovered that the enemny had evacuated their works, and I received orders to advammce with the skirmishers as far as possible. I moved imimmuediately and advanced to the city, which my comumnand emitered at 8 a. in., capturimig on the way omie prisoner. During the campaign my command, independent of the organize(1 foraging parties, captured 2 horses and 4 mules and 25 able-bodied male negroes. During the campaign from Atlanta to Savannah forage amid provisions were abundant, as the men subsisted almost entirely off the country. The total loss of my command fromn the fall of Atlanta to date is six men captured by the enemy. I am, very respectfully, lxi. 11. LOCIJER, Major, Comm andin~q. Lient. L. CT. BODIE, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gem, ~N1 Brig., 1st Pb., 11th A rmy Corps Page 180 180 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 63. Report of Brig. Gen. James D. Morgan, U. S. Army, commanding Second Dirision. IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Mvannah, Ga., J)ecember 29, iSGI. COLONEL: * November 14, marched at daylight, passing to the right of Kenesaw Mountain and bivouacked at Nickajack Creek, twenty miles. Novem- ber15, moved at daylight to Atlanta, twelve miles. November 16, left Atlanta at 11 a. in., passing through Decatur and bivouacking at Snap- finger Creek, marching ten miles. November 17, move(l at 7 a. iii. through Lithotija to C onyers, seventeen miles, aud destroying five miles of railroad. iNoveinber 18, marcI~ed at daylight, crossing Yellow River by Covington to Ulcofauhachee River, flit cen miles, destroying three miles railroad. Noveiiiber 19, marched at daylight, passing through Newborn to Shady Dale, iiineteen miles. Nbvember 20, left ca mpat7 a. in., marching to Eatonton Factory or Little River, fifteen miles. November 21, marched at daylight, crossing Mud Creek and camping at Cedar Creek, marching eighteen miles. November 22, in cami). Noveiti- ber 23, moved at daylight, and camped near Milledgeville, fifteen miles. November 24, left camp at 10 a. m, passing through Milledgeville and crossing the Oconee River and camping at Town Creek, nine miles. November 23, moved at daylight, crossing Buffalo Creek and camping at Keg Creek, marching twelve miles. 26th, moved at daylight for Sandersville. About four miles west of that place my foragers were niet by Wheelers cavalry, who were disposed to resist their advance. The foragers were soon tormed and deployed as skirmishers, and steadily drove the enemy to and through Sandersville, never checking the advance of the column. As a precautiomiary measure the Gite hundred and thirteenth Ohio, Captain Jones commanding, of the Second Bri- gade, were deployed as skirmishers on the left of the road one divis- ion of the Twentieth Corps entered the town simultaneously with my own. 27th, marched at 7 a. in., crossing the Ogeechee River at Feuns Bridge, camping on Hudsons plantation, marching sixteen miles. 28th, left camp at daylight, crossing Rocky Comfort Creek, camping at Louis- ville, nine miles. Remained there during the 29th and 30th. While at Louisville six wagons, under charge of Lieutenant Coe, acting assistant quartermaster, were attacked just outside of picket-line by Wheelers cavalry, and four wagons captured, the remaining two escaping within the lines, followed by the enemny. Captain h)unphy, with Company [GJ, Tenth Michigan Infantry, waited coolly their approach; when within close range fired, killing 1 lieutenant, 2 privates, and wounding 2 (1 muortally); promptly charging, recaptured the four wagons. The cap- taimi is a cool, gallant soldier, and coinmuands brave men. Reports being made that there was a large body of Wheelers cavalry in my front, Lieutenant-Colonel Pearce, commanding Second Brigade, was ordered forward. The enemy did not wait for a close approach of deployed infantry, but made a rapid retreat. Lieutenant-Colonrl Lang- ley, commanding Third Brigade, with two regiments of his comuniand, had previously driven a party of cavalry from his front on the Alabama road, killing a captain and one l)rivate. I had no further trouble with Wheelers comnmand. * For portion of report (here onhitte(i) relating to operations iii North (~eorgia and -North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, p. 620 Page 181 CHAP. LYI.J THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 181 December 1, leaving iiiy train, in conipliaiwe with orders from corps headquarters, marched at 10.30 a. m. on Waynesborough road to Ba- kers Creek, ten miles. I)eceinber 2, left camp at 8 a in., marching ten miles; caml)ed near Buck Head Creek. I)eccmnber 3 left camp at 9 a. um., crossing Buck Head and Rock Creeks, camping near railroad, teii miles. December 4, moved at 6.30, my division in the advance with its own and Third Division traiiis, crossing railroad at Lumpkins Sta- tiomi, passing through the town of Habersham to Smnith~s plantation, niarching sixteen miles. Decemnber 5, moved at daylight, camping at Buck Creek Post-Office, having mnarched sixteen miles. December 6, moved at 6.30 a. in., crossing Buck amid Black Creeks, can~ping after a b teeii ~ road t~b~+v~1M-w1 by trees march of eioh ~ badly ~ fallen , re- nIove(l them during the night. December 7, left camp at 6.30 a,. inn., and marhing fifteen miles camped at plantation, twenty-six miles fromn Savannah; road badly obstructed by fallen trees, Wit by heavy dctamls removed them, causing but little delay. The bridge at Ebene- zer Creek having been destroyed (two muiles in our front), Colonel Bnells command weut actively to work to construct a new one. December 8, the bridge having been coml)leted, left camp at 10 a. in., crossing Ebenezer Creek, marched to Little Ebemmezer Creek, where, after a delay of several hours for completion of pontoon, moved forward to l(eglers Creek. Just after going into camp received or(lers fromn General I)avis to return to Little Ebenezer to protect the train of the corps, an attack being apprehended; returned, and the Second and Third Brigades recrossing the creek bivouacked for the night, havimig marched ten inniles. December 9, left camp at 7 a. in., niarching eight miles amid constructing three bridges. At Doctor Cuy- icrs plantation, about fourteen miles and a half from Savannah, my advance came withimi range and fire of a rebel battery. Two regiments of the Third Brigade were at. once deployed as skirmishers on the right amid left of the road, and one piece of the battery ordered forward. This piece was S00~ in position amid opened fire, which was spiritedly an- swerc(l 1 y sonic well-directed shots. Li eutemi amit Coe, comnniandin g battery, was struck by a shell and instantly killed; a brave, good officer. By order subsequently received from coi~L)5 commander the First and Third Brigades were l)Iaced in position. During the night the works in our front were abandoned. December 10, left camp at 8 a. mu., marching four miles; found the Twentieth Corps nioving upon our road; went into camp. Decemnber 11, received orders to relieve Seventeemith Corps. Left camnp at 8 a. mini., marching seven miles. Wemit imito position on the right of the Milledgeville road, remaining in this positiomi until the 22d. l)uring this tumtie steady a~)proaches were being iiiade to within 300 yards ot the emmemnys works. On tIme night ot the 20th succeeded in get- ting two guns in fine position. Just before (layhight my skirmishers eiltere(l the abamidoned works of the cneniv. thus (losing a brilliant and successfnl campaigmi. With a few exceptions all have t~iithfully performed their duties. To Lieutenant-Colonel Pearce, cominnamidimig Second Brigade (in the absence of Colonel Mitchell), and Lieutenant -Colonel Lamigley, commanding Third Brigade (in the absence of Colonel Dilworth), 1 am nuder ob- ligations for their pioinnptness in executing all orders. They are good officers, and ought to be promoted. My staff officems are (leserx-imi g of all praise for constant ainm(l active attention to duty, and I again, as in muy former reports, recommend them h)r proniotion, having from long and faithful service earned it. I close this report with stating: First, that since the fall of Atlanta my division has marched 560 miles, and by railroad, 406; second, cap Page 182 182 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP LVI. tmed 189 horses, 586 mules, 6 jacks and 1 jenny, and 418 head of cattle, in addition to the number used during the campaign; third, 17 miles of railroad destroyed; fourth, but three rations of bread and two of salt meat were issued to my command from Atlanta to Savannah, the men always having an abundant supply furnished by forage details; fifth, the mules of my trains and artillery horses were iii much fimmer condi- tioii at the eiid than at the commencement of the campaign; sixth, no cotton gins, cotton, nor other property destroyed by my order. Casualties: Killed, 8; wounded, 16; mi ssing, 57; total, 81. All of which is respectfully submitted. JAMES D. MORGAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Dimmswn. [Lieut. Col. A. C. MUCLUEG, Assistant Adjutant- General. Coflsobd(ited casualty report of Second Dirision, Fourteenth Army Corps, from September 3 to December 22, 1864. Killed. Wounded. Missing. Total. ______ 4 be Command C ~ C FirstBri~ade 2 3 9 14 14 Second Brigade 1 6 K..: 20 27 27 Third Brigade 4 7 28 39 39 Battery I. Second Illinois Artillery 1 1 1 Grandtotal 1 7 16 57 1 80 81 No. 64. Journal of Second Division. November 15.Division moved at 6 a. in.; crossed the river and arrived at rebel works at 10 a. in.; closed on transportation of First Division; halted until 1.30 p. in., then muoved to camimp southeast of town. Town on fire at several places, which spread by dark to the main part of towii. Orders to move at 12 mu. to-mnorrow, following Twentie~h Corps; order from General Sherman announcing time army divided immto two wings: General howard to command the Right (Fif- teenth and Seventeeimth Corps), General Slocuni the Left (Fourteenth and Twentieth Corps); Right Wing gone toward Jonesborough, ammd Twentieth Corps to the left this morning; quartermaster busy issuing clothing to-night. November 16.Division moved at 11 a. m. in the rear of First and Third Divisions; marched temi miles; camimped on Smmapfinger Creek; headquarters at Lees house. November 17.Division moved at 7 a. in.; marched sixteemi miles, passing through Lithonia, destroying four miles of railroad, coinmuen cm g one mile and a half east of town, camnping at Commyers Station, thirty miles from Atlanta by railroad. November 18.Divisioli moved at 6 a. in.; marched sixteen miles, crossing Yellow River and Ulcofauhachee; camped Imaif a mile east of latter stream. Troops destroyed three miles of railroad east from Coviugton; trains passed through town Page 183 (HAP. LVI.] TIlE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 183 AWcenibei 19.Division moved at 6 a. 1112 iiiarclicd twenty miles, passing through Sandtown, or Newborn, camping one mile from Shady Grove. November 20 (Sunday).Division moved at 7 a. in.; marched fourteen miles, camping one mile west of Little, or Eatonton, Factories, burning them. Norember 21.Division moved at 7 a. in.; marched twelve miles; camped south of Cedar Creek; rained most of the day; roads very heavy; a number of mules brought into camp. November 22.In camp; Third and First l)ivisions and pontoon train passed to our front~ General Sherman stopped two hours and a half, and General Davis took dinner with us. Sherman was in fine spirits; told story of the soldier foraging liberally, amid that no one could tell where this army would concentrate. November 23.Division moved at 6 a in.; marched fourteen miles, camping two miles from Milled geville; Twentieth Corps in town; First amid Third Divisions in our front. November 24.-Division moved at 10 a. in.; marched ten miles, pass- ing through Milledgeville, crossing Oconee itiver and passing Third Division. Band of First Brigade played Dixie as the column passed the cal)itol. Headquarters at Brundages plantation. November 25.I)ivision moved at 6 a. in.; marched twelve miles, crossing Buffalo Creek, which was pontooned; trains late imito camp. November 2G.Division moved at 6 a. mu; marched six miles to San- dersville; advance met Wheelers cavalry one mile amid a half from town. Stragglers and foragers put on a skirmish line, with which they were pushed to the edge of towim, where one regiment was deployed am~(l the town cleared. One man of the One hundred and eighth Ohio killed and one other wounded. Camped by 10 oclock in town. November 27.I)ivision moved at 7 a. in., following Third Divisioim, leaving main train in charge of Lieutenant Coc, taking the Augusta road then the right on Louisville road; stopped for dinner at William- somis Swamp, crossimig it at Chickasaw Ford; marched sevemiteemi miles, campimig oim Hodgsons I)lantatioii; 300 negroes; 580 bales of cotton bunted; storerooni with books, & c., from Savannah destroyed; crossed Ogeechiec River this afternoomi. November 28.Division moved at 6 a. in.; marched nine miles, cross- immg Rocky Comfort Creek, over which the bridge was bum-ned. Time i-ear of the division got over a little after dark. General was a long while finding his headquarters; camp at Louisville. November 29.Division in camp; Lieutenammt Coe,with trains, arrived at 1 p. in.; Twentieth Corps passed to the right on road No. 10; foragers driven iii on the left, mammy of theni imltoxicate(l. Discovered iii the evening that niy trunk had been left at William U. lh-owmms, at Sandersville. November 30.Jim camp; Wheelers cavalry in our front drove in our foragers early iii the morning. Colonel Langley, with four regi- miment~ sent out on tile left, who killed one captain and two men. Lieutenant Coe, with five wagomis and five companies, were attacked a short distance from picket-line; Captaimi Dumiphy, Tenth Michilgami, (lrove the enemy back, kilhimig three amid woumiding finn which broke them, so that lie saved tile five wagomms and companies; woun(led rebels reported them two brigades stromig. December 1.Division nmove(l at 10 a. in., takimig charge of Third I)ivisio~m transportation, which passed to our frommt, then on a road to our left.; marched twelve miles, camping on Bakers Creek Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN S. C., CA., ANI) FLA. [ChAP. LYr. December 2.Division lIIove(l at S a. in.; marched ten miles, eamupilig in rear ot Twentieth COrl)s, two miiiles northeast of Rirdville. December 3.Division mnove(l at S a. in.; marched ten miles, crossilig Buck Head Creek on pontoons; negroes stopped, near 300; Fourteenth Michigan left to come up with Colonel Buell; camped near Luinpkins Station, Augusta and Milieu railroad. December 4.Division moved at 6.3() a. in., Second Brigade iii advance; took dinner at Ilargroves plantation, eight miles east of rail- road; lna(le a days march of fourteen miles; l)assed through town of Habersham. December 5.1)ivision moved at 6.30 a. in.; marched sixteen Iniles, camping at. Buck Creek Post-Office, six iiuiles from Savannah River, at the mouth of Brier Creek. December 6.Division moved at 6.30 a.. in.; marched eighteen miles, camping at a swamp, where the roa(l was l)adly obstructed. December 7.Division moved at 6.30 a. mn~ marched fifteen miles, camping at Rohirers plantation, two miles from Ebenezer Creek, three- quarters of a mile from Savannalm River, aimd twenty-six imuiles from Savannah. Passed two swamps which were 1)adly obstructed by flillen timber. December 8.Division moved at 10 a. in.; crossed Large Ebenezer and waited till 3 p. in. for Colonel Huehl to pontoon Little Ebenezer; then crossed and marched four miles; at dark were ordcve(l back to Little Ebenezer; Second and Third Brigades encamped north amid First l3ri- gade amid battery south of creek. Colonel Buehl was all night and till - 10 a. in. making a bridge over Large Ebenezer; marched twelve miles. December 9.Division moved at 7 a. in. from Little Ebenezer; lnarche(l eight miles, building two bridges; struck rebel works fourteen miles from Savanmmah; Lieutena.nt.Coe, commnammdimugbattery, killed. Went into camp at (lark, one mile from rebel works; liea(lqnalters at Cuylers plan- tation. Many old papers found in tIme house; Doctor Watson got a deed dated Decemuber 3, 1738; Im eavy eannommadim m g toward Sa van n aIm. December 10.Division mnove(l at. 7 a. mu.; marched four miles, camp- ing at time Temi-Mile house. Rebels left our from it last niglm.t; Twentieth Corps passed on toward town, roa(l joining at this poimit. Heavy can- imonading most of the day toward Savammmmah. December 11.Received orders at 7.30 a. mum. tbr the division to move to the right of Twentieth Corps. Marched five miles to the front, then passed to time right, crossimig Macon railroad, an(l a mile to time front on Milledgevihle moad, where we reiie\-e(i a. division of time Seventeenth Corps with First amid Second Brigades; Third Brigade, ~I1 reserve, save one regmument takemi by Captain Munson on l)icket; Seventeenth Corps moved roumid to time right. December 4) Second Brigade relieved by l)art of Twentieth Corps and moved to the right of First Brigade, Third 1}riga(le destroying railroad iii afternoon. hospital and suJ)j)hy trains caine Up during the day; had got imito a bad swamimp the imiglut before by orders from Gemi- cml Davis. (4un-boat driven up the river and one tramusport captured by Twemitietlm Corps. December 13.Part of Third Brigade (lestroyimmg railroa(l imm the tbre- noon; wagon train sent to the river for rice. Gemmeral, and Captaimus iface ammd Stinsomi visited a rice h)lammtatiomi an(l time rivem. this aftemnoomm; first sight of Sa.vamina.h. December 14.U cmi eral Sim emmnaims order ami nounci n g the capture of Fort McAllister and opemmimig of comumnunicatiomi with Commnodores Farragut amid Porter and Fosters army received; no cimamuge of troops Page 185 CHAP. LVI.] TIlE SAVANNAU CAMPAIGN. 185 No. 65. Report of Col. Robert F. ASm ith, Sixteenth Illinois lifantry, commanding First Brigade. IIDQRS. FIRST Biuc+., SECOND Div., 14TH ARMY CORPS, C4PTAIN A ear Savannah~, Ga., January 3, 1865. After having been furnished with clothing the command broke camp on the day following [November 16], and marched through Decatur, tioin there to Lithonia Station. Here the work of (lestroying the rail- road was resumed. The track wa.s torn up, the ties burnt, and the rails bent and twisted. From Lithonia to Conyers, and farther to Covington, the Georgia Central Railroad was most effectually destroyed. On the 23d of ~ovember the command arrived at Milledgeville. On the fol- lowing day passed through the town, crossed the Ocommee River on the old bridge and the eastern branch OTt pontoons. On approaching Sandersville, November 26, in the morning, some rebel cavalry tried to O~~O5C our march, but were dislodged amid forced back by our advance guard and two companies of the Sixteenth Illinois and Seventeenth New York Infantry, who, haviiig marched ahead of the column for forage, were ordered up on the skirmish line and did good service. The corn- muand reiuained at Sandersyille over night, an(l resumed the march on the following umornirig. The Ogeecltee River and its tributaries were crossed without any considerable difficulty, and in the evening, Novemn- ber 28, the troops passed through Louisville and weiit into camp. Here the comumand remained during the following two days. TIme rebel cav- alry annoyed our pickets and canine near capturing a foraging party of the Seventeenth Regiment New York Infantry, but for the prompt action of Lieutenant-Colonel Martin, who brought the whole regiment out in time to save the foraging party. Several rebels were killed and wounded by our pickets on November 30. On the 1st of December the command left Louisville, and after cross- ing several creeks entered the pine country, passed Habersham amid Jacksonborough, amid on the 8th of December struck th& Savannah River and crossed Ebenezer Creek. Here a rebel gun-boat threw a few shells at our column, doing no damage. 1mm tIme afternoon, Decem. ber 9, it was found that the enemy had erected a battery at the poimit where the Middle Ground and river roads meet. Somne canmionading took place in the evening. This brigade was encamped near the rebel works over night. In the muorning the position was found evacuated by the enemy, amid the columun moved on to Momiteitli Station, on the Charleston and Savannah Railroad and the Milledgeville road, amid took up a position between time last-imamed road amid the Ogeechee Caminal. 1mm this position the command remained until the evacuation of Savammnah. The operations in front of Savannah were, from the minatine of the ground, limited to some attempts to push forward sharpshooters to cover the guns of a rebel battery which commanded the Milledge- ville road and the Georgia Cemmtral Railroad track. A deep swamp in our front was found impassable, and breast-works thrown up iii the road proved of little use, as the caliber of their guns enabled the enemy to demolish them in short time. A breast-work for a battery and a ride- 1)it constructed by Maj. J. H. McDonald would probably have had suf ficient power to resist the rebel balls, but was not completed uimtil the * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia amid North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 636 Page 186 186 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. [CHAP. LVI. night before the enemy retreated. The rebel batteries kept tip a desul- tory fire day and night, throwli ig shot and shell, g1a~)e and canister, but the intervening woods L)revented theni from getting an accurate range of our position, and consequently no harm was done except in one ease, where a man of the Seventeenth New York Infantry was struck by a solid shot which tore oft one of his legs, causing his (leath on the following day. A splinter of a tree, cut oft by the same ball, slightly wounded another man ot the same regiment. For other cas- ualties on this march 1 beg leave to refer to the report of casualties already forwarded. With the exception of four days rations of bread and meal, and about half rations of sugar and coffee, this comman(l drew all its sub- sistence from the country after leaving Atlanta. The exact amount of 5li1)1)lies of every kind drawn front the country cannot be ascertained, but it may be estimated as equivalent to about 65,000 rations. Of forage not even an approximate estimate can be had, the number of horses and mules in the command varying daily, almost hourly. Accord- ing to reports from tIme different regiments of this brigade 110 mules and 61 horses were captured. The number of negroes who followed the column cannot be ascertained with anything like accuracy. It may be safely stated, however, that not less than 100 colored persons were with the brigade on arriving in front of Savannah. The commanding officer of the Tenth Reoiment Michigan Infantry reports two cotton wins destroyed by his command, the only instance known to me of such occurrence. At Sandersville three or four bales of cottomi were found hidden in a field and (Iestroyed. Of railroad track this coninnand destroyed about twelve miles at nearest computation. On the 22d of December the army entered the city of Savannah and this brigade was moved to its present location. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Th F. SMITH, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. T. WISEMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 66. Report of Capt. Eben IYkite, Sixteenth Illinois Infantry. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ILLINoIS INFANTRY, Near Sara unalt, Ga., Jaunary 1, 186{5.* The regiment was here [Atlanta J clothed and eqLiippe(l, and marched on November 16, following time Georgia railroad to Uoviiington, Ga., from thence to Milledgeville, and fromn that place ut a southeasterly direction to the Savannah River, and dowim the right bank of that stream to the city of Savannah, which place was ilmvcste(l on the 11th and occupied on the 21st of I)eceniber, 1864. Sabsistence.After leaving Atlanta there was issued to the regimemit but three days~ rations of hard bread and sugar amm(l temi days rations of coffee. The men obtaimmed all other necessary articles of subsistemice amid many luxuries in the greatest abundance from the country along the monte, which afforded sweet l)otatoes, chickemis, turkeys, mind otimer l)rovisions in larger quammtities thami comild be comismmnmed by the mcmi. For 1)o1tioll of report (here omitted) relatiiig to operations in North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol XXXIX, I~art I, p. (337 Page 187 CHAP. LYI.J TILE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 187 horses, mules, ~c.The regiment captured on the recent campaign 10 horses aiid 20 mules, most of which were unusually large and in splendid condition. But few cattle or sheep were taken more than the regiment required for its own use. Neyroes.Tliere accompanied the regiment to the city of Savannah only six negroes (males), all of whom are used by officers as servants. Large numbers of both sexes nn(1 all ages were prohibited from follow- ing the command, in obedience to stringent orders issued on that sub- ject from superior lieadqmnters. Railroads, & c., destroycd.The regiment on the march from Carters- ville to Savannah destroyed about three miles of railroad and one rail- road bridge over Pumpkin Vine Creek. Large quantities of fence rails were burned; no cotton gills nor presses were destroyed by the regi- ment. Respectfully submitted. EBEN WhITE, Captain~ Comm an (1 my Regiment. Capt. JOHN P. HOLLERS, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 1st B)iq., 2d Dir., 14th Army Corps. No. 07. McDonald Si rtieth Illinois Infantry. ReJ)o)t of Ifaj. James If. IIDQRS. SIXTIETh ILLINOIS VETERAN VoL. INFANTRY, & ( ran nab, Ga., January 3, 1~?G5. SIR :* On November 16, 1864, marclie(l from Atlanta on the Augusta road, via Covington, Milledgeville, Sai idersville, Louisville, and thence to Savan- nah Ga a distance of 310 miles. Struck the enemys lines three miles from the city On the 11th of I)ecembcr, 1864. On the march we for- aged liberally off the country; subsisted off the country twenty days. Captured 21 mules, 20 horses, and 25 negroes. All property has been turned over to the proper authority. Loss on the entire march, 1 man captured, 1 died of disease. Total distance marched, 551 miles; total distance by railroad, 380 miles; grand total, 931 miles. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 4. H. McDONALD, Majjor, Corn dy. Sixtieth Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry. ACTG. ASST. ADJT. GEN., FIRST BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION. No. 68. Report of Capt. Charles H. Richman, Tenth Michigan Infantry. IIDQRS. TENTH MICHIGAN VETERAN VOL. INFANTRY, Near Savannah, Ga,, January 3, 1865.t November 14, marched at 5 a. in.; passed Big Shanty at 8.15; mnove(l to the right of Kenesaw Mountain; went into camp five miles front For portion of report (here omitte(1) relating to operations hi North Georgia and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. ($35. tFor portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia and and North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, m 635 Page 188 188 OI~ERATIONS IN 5. C., GA., ANT) FLA [CHAP. r~vi. Cliattahoochec River at 4.30 p. in. November 15, marched at 6 a. iii.: reached Atlanta 2 p. in.; went southeast of city and camped; drew clothing an(l rations. November 16, were ordered to move at 7 a. n. but did not [get] started till 11 a. in.; went on Augusta road to right of Stone Mountaiii; camped at 7 p. iii. November 17, moved at 6.30 a. in.; reached Lithonia 1.15 p. in.; went three miles further and coin- menced destruction of railroad; buriied about ; went into camp at Conyers Station at 7 p. in. November 18, itiarched at 6 a. in.; were train guards; reached Covington 1.15 p. in.; here left the railroad to onr left and went toward Eatontoip ., ~arched camped at 4p. in. November19 mm at 6 a. in.; rainy; made canii~ at 4.30 p. in. November 20, ina~ched at 6.45 a. in.; were iii advance of the corps; wemit to one mile of Eatontoii Factory. November 21, mnove(1 at 6.45 a. in.; camped at sumidown at Cedar Creek. November 23, started at 6 a. in.; camped at sundown two miles from Nihledgeville. November 24, moved at 9.40 a. ni.; reached Milledgeville 10.20; crossed Oconee River amid went imito camimp six miles from towim. November 25, marched at 6 a. in.; camped frommi 7 to 10.30 p. in. six miles froni Sandersyihle; were train guards. November 26, marched at 6.15 a. in.; went into town 9.15; went to east side of town and camped. November 27, inarche(1 at 6 a. ni.; camped at sundown. November 28, moved at 7 a. in.; camped at 8.30 p. in. one mile east of Lonisville; here remnaimmed until 1)eceinber 1. The regiment had three companies omm grand gnar(l cast of camp, when were attacked by about mounted infantry. Our men charged amid drove them across an opemi field, wli ere they rallied and tried to drive our men back, but failed. Time enemy lost three killed amid several wonnded. No loss on our side. December 1, started at 12 in.; went into camp 7.30 p. in. l)eeemnber it 9 a. in.; were train ouards. 2 moved , halted abont sundown. Dc cember 3, marched at 10 a. iii.; wrere train L~nards; went imito camp between 11 p. in. and 2 a. mu. the 4th. i)eceniber 4, started about 8 a. in.; crosse(l the Augusta. railroad at. 10 a. iii.; wemmt into camp at 7 p. in. December 5, mnove(1 at 6.30 a. in.; went into camp at Buick Creek, on old River road; regimemmt on gramid guar(l. l)ecemnber 6, brigade in rear; moved at 10 a. in.: went into camp at 9 p. iii. December 7 moved at 7.30; camped near Ebemmezer Creek sooui after dark. I)ecein- ber 8, marched a.t 10 a. iii.; went about seven miles ail(1 camnl)e(l, where remaimued until 8.30 p. in.~ then went l)ack three uimiles; moved very slow; camped at 11.30 P. in. i)eceumber 9, moved at 7.34) a. nm.; made camp at 4 p. in. December 10. moved at 7.30; ~~-emit to railroad and remained until 3.30, when went on grand guard oii August a rOa(l. December 11, at 9 a. in. were relieved; wemi t to (1oi i yers, amid on toward Savani nih; went to five mniles of towum; crossed to right of (~eorgia Ceimtrah Railroad; wemmt into position near Telfair Statiomi, an(l about tour miles amid a half from the city; no calls allowed to be sonii(lc(l or caitip flues at miiglit.. Deceni- ber 14, had or(lers t(I) lay out ~ain p iii regular or(ler. December 16 and 20, regiinemit. omi grand guard. I)ecemmmber 21, had omdem.s to be rea(hy to move at 8 a. iii., l)lit did not start until about 9 a. in. the 22d~ went about omme niile amid a half nearer the city amid went into camp. l)istaace mnarcimed durimmo the month of October, 210 mmiiles; N(~~~CIi~- ber, 233 miles; i)ecemnber, 126 miIes~ total 569 miles. Respectfully submitted. CHAS. 11. RICIIMAN, (1aptwia, Comnw.nding Reyirnent. Capt. JOHN P. hOLLERs, Acting Assistant Adjutant- (icucral, First Brigade, d.c Page 189 (hAl. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 189 Amount of tO)OfiC 011(1 SUO8i8tenCC, 4-c., (0j)tl(rCd Sq the Tell /11 iIi(h iqall InJon/eq Vet- eran !olnnteer8 (luring the march from J (bob to & iran nob, Ga. Flour p01111(15. - 3, 300 Lofl(r bra r0 - - pounds.. OAflO Corn meal - do. - - 5.300 Short torage ..... - 5,000 Sugar ~(10 - - - - 250 horses captured 19 Salt do. - - - 450 Mules captured - . 23 Jerk (live hogs) do. - - - 16, 000 Negroes that followed regiment. 20 Beef (on foot) do. - - - 1,000 Cotton gins iluriled 2 lbi(-e do. - - - 700 Railroad (lestroved mniles - Sirup gallons - - 335 Resl)eetfully submitted. CIIAS. II. RLCLIMAN, (Japta in, (Jonmntandinq Regiment. HEAD~ CARTERS TENTH MICH1(~AN INFANTRY, Near Savannah, ~Jan nary 3, fs6~. No. 69. Report (g Lieut. Cal. ,Joel 0. iIIarbn, ASet~eItteefltlt New II ark infantry. UDQES. SEVENTEENTH 1~EGT. NEW YORK VET. VOLS., Ca np, near eSa ra tin a1, Decent ber 30, 1564. CAPTAIN :~ Fitted out my command with clothing during the night, aII(1 the text non iiii g [N )velnbeL- 161 we were ready for a iiother campaign. Left Atlanta at 2 p. in. November 16; worked at tearing up the railroad Pain Atlanta to Covington. November 17 and 18, without rations or chance to forage. November 24, marched throng-li the city of Milledge- yule.. November 26, Captain Wilde, Coinpaii A, of my regiment, was l)lace(l on the skirmish line at Sandeisrille lw (~cneral Morgan; had a lively little skirmish with the enemy and were among the first to enter the town. November 28, went into camp near Louisville, where we remained till 1)ecember i. on the 30th 1 sent out a foraging party at fbrty men under command of Lieutenant Magee. I soon learned that a force of the enemys cavalry hadeome between theni and our picket and that they were cut off. I endeavored to make my way to them, but was unable to do so. The enemy chased inc l)ack to the picket- line, where three of them were killed. I fouIi(l that mity little I)arty of toragers were hghting against a greatly superior force; that their reti-cat was completely cut oil and they were in imminent danger of being captured. There was no time to report these facts to my corn- manding othcer. I was satislied that my foraging party were lost if they did not have immediate assistance. I moved my regiment out 1-al)idly, sending word to Colonel Smith of my movements. Found the pickets driven back and the enemy occupying their position. Formed line and advanced mapidly upon the emmemny. They fell back before us about half a mile, uncovering my foraging 1)arty and giving them a chance to join us. Awaited oi-ders frommi General Morgan and moved back to camp. Nothing of special interest took place on the march ti-am Louisville to the front of Savannah. Reached time latter place December 12. Threw up an earth-work in front of my caump. My corn- inand was employed in this work, making- fascines, picket duty, & c., For l)ortiolL of ieport (heie omitted) relating to operatious ill North Georgia and North Alahanma. see \ol. XXXIX, Part I. p. 039 Page 190 190 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LV1. till the fall of Savannah, December 21. I 5110111(1 judge my command had torn up four or five miles of railroad altogether, captured about 30 mules and 10 horses, no cattle; iio cotton gills were destroyed; no negroes were all wed to follow the regiment exCCl)t those employed as officers servants. From the time we left Atlanta, Noveinbcr 16, till l)ecember 12 my command received from the Government but fonr days rations of bread and meal and about half rations of sugar all(l coftee. The rest of the food which the men had was 1)icked ill) by foraging parties along the line of march sent out from the reoimmidnt. All the forage for the animals from the time we left Atlanta till the fall ot Savannah was gathered in the country. I had 2 men wounded all(l t killed in front of Savannah. The regiment left Atlanta September 28 with aggregate strength of 307; arrived in front of Savannah, Ga., l)ecember 12 with an aggre- gate of 356, showing a gain of 49. I am, captain, very respectfully, your ol)ediellt servaiit, J. 0. MARTIN, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Secentecuth Aeic York Veteran Vols. Cal)t. JOHN P. hOLLERS, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. Gem, 1st Brig., 24 Die., 14th Army Corps. No. 70. Report of Lient. Col. !Joh n S. Pearce, Ninety-eighth Ohio infantry, corn ill ending & ?COfl(i Brigade. IIDQR8. SECOND Burn,, SECOND 1)im, 11411 AuMY Coups, In Cant]), iiear ASaran)tuh, Ga., December 31, 1864. CAPTAiN: * Noveumber 14, mnarched twenty miles toward Atlanta, Ga., passing to the right of Marietta, Ga. November 15, arrived in Atlanta after muarching twelve miles. Ilere we remaimmed until the following day, November 16, when, in pursuance of previous orders fromn the com- mamuling general-imi-chief, we took up our hue of march at 11 oclock on the Decatur road for what had 1)een before amunounced imi Special Field Orders, No. 119, headquarters Military l)ivision of the Mississippi, in the field, Kingston, Ga., Novemaber 8, 1864a departure from our present base and a long and difficult march to a new one, and after mnarching eleven miles enca inped for the night three miles southeast of Decatur, passing through that place late in the aftermuoon. November 17, marchimig through Lithonia, encamped within a mile of Conyers, dis- tance eighteen miles, (lestroyimlg three-quarters of a mile of railroad. On the muormung of the 18th we crossed Yellow River omi pontoons, and pass- ing through Covington~ tile county seat ot Newton County, Ga., we crossed the Ulcofauhacluce River, and after destroying half a mile of railroad encamped one mile beyond that river, llaving marched a dis- tance of cighteemi muiles. November 19, marched seventeen muiles amid bivouacked south of Sandtown. November 20, marched eighteen miles and bivouacked within three miles of Eatomuton. November 21, muarched ten miles, crossing Murder Creek, and wemit into camup, there reumainimig until the morning of the 23d; very cold. November 23, passing For portion of report (here oiiiitted) relating lo o1)eratiomls in North Georgia and North Alabuima, see Yol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 610 Page 191 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 191 through one of howell Cobbs plantations, we marched and bivouacked for the iiight within one mile and a bait of Milledgeville, Ga.; distance marched, fifteen midles. Oii the following (lay we passe(l through iXill- ledgeville and bivouacked for the nioht ciofit niles beyond the Oconee H H River, which stream we crosse(l about midday. On the followiimg day we niarched twelve utmiles, crossing Buffalo Creek on pontoons, and bivouacked for the iiight. Novemitber 2(3, marched toward Sanders- yule, Washington County, Ga., and when witlilti about two uidles of that 1)lace we muiet the enemys cavalry. The brigade having time advance that day I was ordered by General Morgan, comnnianding the (liVisioll, to send torwar(l a regiment to supJ)ort the skirmish line which had been fornle(l front the several foraging parties of the division. rphe One hundred amid thirteentl 1 01110 Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Captain Jones, being on the rigi it of the brigade, I sent it forward, when the skirmishers advanced, drivin _ the enemy through the town, this reiment following and l)eing the first to enter the place. We marched ten miles this day aiid encamped a short (listalice east of San- (lersville. November 27, lIlar(hIe(l sixteen miles aimd bivouacked for the night within three miles of the Ogeechee River. November 28, resumed march early in the morning, and crossing Rocky Comfort Creek encanll)e(l one niile beyond Louisville; (listalice marched, ten miles. On following day went into camp and here remained until I )eeember 1. Omi November 30 Captain Watson, One hundred and thirteenth Reginient Ohio Volunteer Infantry, having been sent out with six companies of the regimnemit as train guard, met the enemys cavalry, and after a lively skirmish with them was driven back to the 1)icket-line, losing 2 wounded and 7 men prisomiers. The balance ot the brigade having been ordered out by General Morgan to their sup~)ort, the enemy soon dispersed, when we returned to camp. December 1, niarching eleven tudles, encamped for the night. On tile tollowing (lay the brigade was rear guard for the traimi, an(l owing to brokemi bridges, swamps, an(l bad roads, the command, with the train, (ti(l miot get into camnp until 2 oclock the following morning; (listance marched, twelve muihes. Omi the following (lay, December 3, marched sixteen miles toward Savannah amid bivouacked for the night near Lumpkimts Statiomi, omm time Augusta and Waynesborough Railroad. I )ecember 4, marched cighteemi miles, passing through the town of Habershamn, amid ellcalnpe(h for the night. December 5, was again train guard and marched sixteen mniles, encamping near Buck Head Creek Clnmrch. On this march we mnet with considerable obstructions from the enemy, butthey were soon removed byour trooJ)~. l)ecember 6, marched sixteemi muiles toward Savanmmah, amid bivouacked for the miight on mnaiu Savammnah au(l Augusta road. December 7, roads blockaded, obstruc- tioiis remnove(l, and the brigade mmma.rclied twelve mitiles, encamping near Little Ebemmezer Creek. 0mm the following day we crossed Little and Big Ebenezer Creeks, amid afterinarch in g four umiles beyond tite hatter stream, we conmitermnaiched amid returmted to the imnnie(hiate uieigltborhoo(l of Ebenezer Clmurchi; distance in all miiarchied, fourteemi muiles. December 9, mit arched mime mniles toward Savannah, emicoumitering rebel artillery. Decemuber 10, marched four miles to Charhestomi amid Savanmiahi Railroad amid wemut into eamup. On the tolh)wimlo mornimig the brigade muarchied five miles toward Savannah amid relieved a brigade of the Seventeenth Army Corps on tIme Charlestomi an(1 Savannah Railroad, where it rein auted umitil time evemmino of the l2tim whmemm orders front General ., by Morgan, it relieved the Fimst Bi-igade, Fim-st I)ivisiomm, Fourteentim Armny Corps, omi the right of the Macomi and Savannah Railroad, where W Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYk. remained until the fall of Savaniiab, which took l)lftCe oii the morning of the 21st instant. On the following day we moved to our present camp. within one mile and three-quarters of Savannah. During the campaign to Florence, Ala., and to the time of our return to Atlanta in all, forty-six daysthere were regularly issued to the brigade thirty- five days rations hard bread, corn meal, and flour; thirteen days ra- tions salt meat; twenty-eight days rations fresh beeftotal meat, forty- one days; thirty-five daysrations coff~e; thirty-four days i~a.tions browii sugar; thirty days rations salt; twenty days rations desiccated 1)ota- toes; five days rations soap. The country through which we marched in the North Alabama (am- paign, as a general thing, and especially that portion lying between Florence and Athens, contained large quantities of meat, breadstuff, and forage of all kinds, but fi-oni the tact that the (hivislOn was reason- ably well supplied with Government rations, an(l the close proximity of the enemy rendering it ilIlI)oL-tant that the entire command should be held well together, Geiiei-al Morgan did not permit but little foraging to be done until we arrived at Gaylesvilhe, Ala., where it became nec- essary, owing to time scarcity of the regular rations. Wlmilst we did not, for the most of time time, want for enoPgh to eat, yet for tIme reasons before stated there was much suffin-ing. The general health of the bri- gade was good, however. During time campaign fromn Atlanta to Savannahm, and up to the time of the fall of the citya period of thirty-six daystIme brigade received thm-oughm the commissary five and a half days rations of bread, five and a half days rations of salt meat, thirty-one days ratiomms of cof- fee, eighteemm days rations of sugar, twenty-four days rations of salt, sevemm and three-qnarters (lays rations of pease, omme days ratmons of pepper, ten days rations of soap. These were all the rations that were issued. The balance of the subsistence for the brigade was (hrawn from the country by regulam-ly orgammized foraging parties. On the campaign from Atlanta to Savannah the brigade foraging party consisted of a cem-tain number of mounted amid foot soldiers from each regimnent. Over each regimental detail was one commissioned officei- in charge, and over all was appointed an a(lditiouah officer, whmo had general supervision of the foraging for the brigade. The country through which we passed abominding jim all kinds of meatsalt, as well Iieslmsweet potatoes, tnm-mmips, and other vegetables; molasses, corn meal, flour, rice, and amm ainmost inexhaustible quantity of corn, corn fodder, oatsthreshed and in time sheafit was very seldom, immdeed, that the foraging party failed to amply supply the men and animnals of the brigade with forage ammd provisions for each day they had not the regular ration. Large quantities of salt weme foumid on the march, and near Louisville several l)ounds of gm-ecu coff~e. h)uring the entire march from Atlamita to Savannah the weatlmer was fume: the roads, except when passing throughm swamps, good, and but seldom obstructed by the enemy. ammd then, as a gemmeral thing, so tm-ifiingly that but little delay was occasioned thereby. Time healthm of the comumand ~vas most excelhemmt ammd time spli-its buoyant, buit very few, if any, even speculat- imig of disaster or failure in the accoumphishment of that which all felt and believed would be a severe blow against the rebellion. Time bri- gade destroyed imi all about five miles of railroad and captured 139 nmuhes and 99 horses. Tlme numh)er of negroes following the brigade was 193. I have no knowledge of the destruction of any cottomm gins or cotton by nmy comumand ou ammy portion of it. If any wet-c des tu-oyed by any por- tioum of the command it was done w-ithout my om-der, knowledge, or con Page 193 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 193 sent, and I am satisfied without the order, knowledge, or consent of the regimental commanders. I at no time received any order from the corps commander (to whom alone was, by Special Field Orders, No. 120, Military Division of the Mississippi, imitrusted the power to destroy such) for the destruction of any cotton gin or gins or cotton. I have, there- fore, none to report. It would be impossible for me to even approxi- mate to a correct statement of the forage and supplies obtained by the brigade. In order to give some idea of the amount, I have already stated the number of days for which we were fully and regularly rationed, both on the North Alabama campaign and the campaign to Savannah; now I will give the aggre~ate number of officers and men, horses amid mules of the brigade in each canipaign, then add that of provisions an(l forage gathered from the country. The men and animals had at all times abundamwe. The aggregate imumuber of officers and men of the brigade in the North Alabama campaign was 1,600 horses and mules, 48, for which fornge was exclusively drawn from the coun- try. In the latter campaign to Savannah the aggregate of officers and men of the brigade was 1,843; horses and mules, 380, for all of which abundance of forage and provisions was at all times obtained from the country through which we passed. Accompanying this report you will find a full list of the casualties in the brigade from the 29th of September to the fall of Savannah.* The total nummiber of miles traveled by rail by the brigade on the North Alabama campaign was 334 miles; total number of miles marched on the same campaign up to Novemuber 15, when the brigade arrived at Atlanta, 134 miles; total number of miles marched on the camnpaigmi from Atlanta to Savannah was 284 miles, making iu all a distance of 752 miles. I would be doing injustice to those who deserve otherwise were I to close this report without ackmiowledging that the regimental command- ers of this brigadeLient. Col. M. It. Vermion, Seventy-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry; Maj. Frederick Beck, One hundred and eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Maj. A. B. Robinson, One hundred and twenty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Capt. Peter Ege, Thirty-fourth Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry; Capt. Toland Jones, One hundred and thirteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Capt. 3. It. McLaughlin, Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantryhave at all times been most prompt in the execution of all orders intrusted to themn, and, in assisting along the trains, removing obstructions, building and repairing bridges, amid preservimmg discipline in their respective comnmuands, (lisphayed a praiseworthy energy and resolntiomi. The One hundred and eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry was not with the brigade on the Florence campaign. It rejoined the comumand on the 17th of November. Of the members of the brigade statfMaj. T. B. Williams, One hun- died and twenty-fist Ohio Volunteer Infantry, surgeon-i n-chief; Capt. J. S. Wilson, assistant adjutant-general, U. S. Volunteers; Capt. J. Vaii Bi-imner, One hundred and twenty-first Ohio Volunteer Infamitry, assmsrant commissary of subsistence; Capt. Joseph Swisher, One hun- dred and tlmirtecuth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, acting assistant quarter- master; Capt. Hiramn J. Craft, Ninety-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infhntry, acting assistant inspector-general; Capt. G. H. Reynolds, Seventy- eighth Illinois, provost-marshal; First Lient. W. C. Robinson, Thirty- fourth Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry, acting aide-dc-camp; See *Not found. 13 R ThYOL XLI Page 194 :194 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. ond Lieut. 0. M. Scott, One hundred and twenty-first Ohio Volunteer infantry, acting ordnance officerI must say in justice to them they could not have been more faithful, vigilant, prompt, energetic, and courteous in their discharge of their several offices than they have been. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, [J. S. PEARCE, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding.] [Capt. T. WISEMAN. Assistant Adjutant- General.] No. 71. Report of Lient. Col. ]llaris R. Vernon, Seventy-eighth Illinois Infantry. HDQRS. SEvENTY-EIGHTH REGT. ILLINOIS VOL. INFTY., Savannah, Ga., December 30, 1864. CAPTAIN :* Reached Atlanta on the 15th [November]; here drew clothing, and on the following day (16th) started upon a new campaign; marched in aii easterly course ten miles. 17th, marched seventeen miles in southeast course; destroyed half a mile of railroad, and camped for the night near Conyers Station. 18th, continued the march in an easterly course, passing through Covington, Newton County; destroyed the railroad one mile east of the town; marched seventeen miles and camped for the imight on Ulcofanhachee River. 19th, marched southeast twenty miles; camped near Shady Dale. 20th, marched seventeen miles and camped four miles east of Eatonton. 21st, marched eleven miles and camped on Cedar Creek; rained all day. 22d, remained in camp. 23d, marched fourteen miles and camped two miles northwest of Mihledge- ville. 24th, passed through Milledgeville and camped six miles east of it. 25th, marched in an easterly course nine miles. 26th, marched to Sandersville, county seat of Washington County, distance, six miles, the advance driving enemys cavalry out of the town. 27th, marched seventeen miles, crossed Ogeechee River, and camped two miles east of it. 28th, marched eight miles, passed through Louisville, county seat of Jefferson County, an~ went into camp one umile north of the town. 29th, remained in camp. 30th, ordered out on Waynesborough road to the relief of the forage party reported to be surrounded by enemys cavalry; returned to camp at dark, losing eight men captured by the enemy. In justice to Captain Akins, commanding forage detach- ment from Seventy-eighth Illinois, I must say it was through no neglect on his part that the men were captured. The enemy, vastly superior in number, charged upon him in front and on flank, and it was with great difficulty he evaded the capture of his whole party. As it was, lie reached camp with the loss of but eight men. December 1, marched iii a southeast course nine miles on the flank, guarding wagon trains. 2d, marched east eight miles, guarding train. 3d, marched twelve miles, general course east. 4th, marched sixteen miles, general direction east; crossed Savannah and Augusta Railroad * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations i~ North Georgia ami North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 6~2 Page 195 CAM. LVI.] THE 5AVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 195 at Lumpkins Station; still guarding train. 5th, marched in an east- erly course seventeen miles. (5th, marched iii southeasterly course twenty miles. 7th, marched iii southeasterly course fourteen miles, and caml)ed one mile from Savanimah River and twenty-seven miles from the city. 8th, moved south five miles~ (Tossed Ebenezer River, enemy demonstrating in front. 9th, moved south seven miles; struck rebel fortifications on main road leading t~ Savannah. 10th, enemy fdl back and we advanced four niiles, reaching Savannah and Charleston Railroad. 11th, moved down the railroad and went into position, re- lieving a part of the Seventeenth Corps, the right of the regiment resting oii Savannah and Charleston Railroad some three miles from the city. December 12, relieved by Twentieth Corps and moved with the brigade two miles to the right; went into position with the right of the regiment near the canal, and SOflIC tour miles from the city; remained in this position until the fall of Savannah. rihere was issued to the regiment by the brigade commissary from and including the 16th of November, the date of leaving Atlanta, up to 21st of December the following amuoumit of rations: Six days rations bread, six days rations bacon, six days rations soap, six days rations salt, twenty-four days rations coffee, eleven days rations sugar, nine days ratioiis beef. The rest required to subsist upon was foraged oft the country. I am unable to give the amount brought into the regiment, but I do know the men did not snfferin fact, they lived well. The regiment destroyed two miles of railroad, bronght in and turned over 23 head of mules, ii head horses, and 22 head of cattle. Number of negroes that followed the regiment into camp, 23. Cotton and cot- ton gins destroyed, none. In conclusion I must say that both officers and men performed the march in fine spirits; none were lost through sickness or fatigue. I am, captain, with much respect, your obedient servant, M. 11. VERNON, Lieutenant- Colonel, Comm ending Regiment. Capt. J. S. WILSON, Acty. Asst. Adjt. (len., 2d Brig., 2d Div., 14th Army Coqs. No. 72. Report of Capt. James R. AleLaughlin, Ninety-eighth Ohio Infantry. JJDQRS. NINETY-EIGHTH OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Savannah, Ga., December 29, 1864. On the morning of the 16th [November] the Ninety-eighth, with the remainder of the division which formed a part of the Left Wing, Army of Georgia, left Atlanta, moving on the Augusta road. We struck the railroad near Covington, destroying about a quarter of a mile, which is all the railroad destroyed by the Ninety-eighth (luring the entire trip. The regiment only drew about three days rations after leaving Atlanta until we arrived outside the defenses of Savannah. With this excep- tion the regiment subsisted entirely off the country. The captures made by the regiment are as follows: horses, 20; inul es, 30; cattle, 75. Number of darkies following time regiment, 12. During * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operat~o~m in Nort~m Georgia ann North Alabama, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, 1 642, Page 196 196 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. ~Cnir. LVL the entire trip from Atlanta to Savannah there were no casualties occurring in the regiment except one man who was accidentally wounded while foraging. I have the honor to be, very respectffilly, your obedient servant, J. H. McLAUGHLIN, Captain, tiomman ding. Capt. J. S. WILSON, Aetg. Asst. AdJt. (Jen., 2d Brig., 2d Div., 14th Army Corps. No. 73. Report oJ Lieut. Col. Iames TV. Langley, One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois infantry, commanding Third Brigade. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., SECOND Div., 14TH ARMY CORPS, Near Saeannah, Ca., January 3, 1865. CAPTAIN: * November 14, marched by way of Kenesaw Mountain to within four miles of Chattahoochee River. November 15, resumed march at 6 a. in., crossed the river on pontoon bridge, and reached Atlanta at 1 p. in. This may be said to finish the North Alabama campaign, having been gone from Atlanta forty-eight days instead of four as was expected. Before reaching Atlanta I sent orders to Captain Hall, commanding a small detachment of the brigade at that place, to pro- cure guns, accouterments, and ammunition for every man in his com- mand able to march, and I also had requisitions made by regimental commanders for the amount of such ordnance stores required to per- fectly equip their commands. I had also an officer detailed from each regiment to take these requisitions to Atlanta and give them their personal attention. These were sent from Kingston as soon as I re- ceived intelligence that we would shortly cut loose from our old base, but they failed to get the men properly armed in consequence of the surplus ordnance stores having beeii shipped from Atlanta before their arrival. This left my command on reaching Atlanta short fifty- four guns and accouterments. From Kingston also I directed my bri- gade quartermaster to proceed to Atlanta and draw his estimate of clothing and allowance of transportation. This he did to my entire satisfaction, having procured a sufficient number of shoes to give every man two pairs, the result of which was that upon our arrival at Savan- nah I had not a barefooted soldier iii my command. The Third Brigade, comprising 1,721 total comnmnissioned officers and enlisted men present, left Atlanta November 16, at 12 in., and marched on the Decatur road nine miles and camped for the night. November 17, marched at 7 a. in., by way of Lithonia to Conyers Station. During the afternoon of this day we tore up and destroyed three miles railroad track and ties. November 18, marched at 6 a. in. on the Covingtou road, and camped for the night three miles. east of that town. To-day the brigade destroyed two miles and a half of railroad track and ties; to-day also we began to subsist oft the country. November 19, marched at 6 a. in.; crossed Ulcofhnhachee River, and went into camp at dark near Shady Dale. November 20, marched at 7 a. in. and camped at night near Eatonton Factory. November 21, marched at 6 a. ma. and ler portioii of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia and North Alabama., see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 643 Page 197 Ca& r. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 19~ camped at night on east side of Cedar Creek. November 22, laid still to-day and let First and Third Divisions of the CO~l)5 pass by. Novem- ber 23, marched at 6 a. in., with two regiments as train guards and two as rear guard. Camped at night within two miles of Milledgeville, the rear guard reaching camp at 9.30 p. m. November 24, marched at 10 a. in. through Milledgeville, with colors displayed and bands playing national airs, and camped at night seven miles beyond, on the Sanders- yule road. November 2~, marched at 6 a. in. to Buffalo Creek, where we found the bridge had been destroyed just before our arrival. My command mnarchimig- at the head of the division column to-day, upon its reaching this creek I set to work a company of pioneers amid two coin- panics of mnemi from the Twenty-second Indiana, and in half an hour had constructed a very good foot bridge, upon which I crossed the Twenty- second Indiana and afterward the entire brigade, and marched a mile beyond, leavimig my pioneer party to assist Colonel Buell in putting down a pontoon bridge for the crossing of trains. Camped at miight on Keg Creek. November 26, marched at 6 a. in.; crossed Keg Creek and met rebel skirmishers within two miles of Sandersville. My foraging l)arty assisted the troops in the advance to drive the enemy through town. We arrived in town at 10 a. m. and went. into camp on the north side. November 27, marched at 7 a. in. on the Louisville road; crossed the Ogeechee IRiver and camped within eight miles of Louisville for the night. November 28, marched at 6 a. m. to within one mile of Louis- ville, where we found that the bridge across Rocky Comfort Creek had be en burned; the Third Division, Fourteenth Corps, was repairing the same. At dusk I crossed my commamid over, marched through the town, and wemm~ into camp on the left of the Augusta road, about one mile and a half beyond. November 29, remained in camp all day. November 30, still in camp at Louisville. To-day I deployed the Eighty-sixth and One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois as skirmishers, supported by the Fifty-second Ohio amid Twenty-second Indiana, and moved forward, covem-ing the Warrenton and Augusta roads. This movement was induced by the presence iii our vicinity of small parties of the enemy, who had, for two or three days past, been capturing and mnurdering foragers and other soldiers who were so unfortunate as to fall into their power. The enemy had, on the night previous to this movement, captured and killed two men of the Eighty-fifth Tndiana, one of One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois. My line advanced at 11 a. m. and drove the enemy in fine style, recapturing a small foraging party, with train, from the Twefitieth Corps, that had ventured too far out. Pretty smart skirmishing continued for some minutes, when the enemy atteinl)ted to break my line, 1)ut were repulsed by the Eighty- sixth Illinois, with the loss of one captain and one private, who were killed outright amid left by the dying enemy on the field. At this juncture, by order of General 1~Iorgan, I halted and adjusted my line. Everything remained quiet until 3.30 l~- in., whemi I received orders to move forward until my right should connect with the heft of the Second Brigade, which was moving across toward the Augusta from the Waynesborough road. In this movement my line advanced at the double-quick across a corn-field, to the woods beyond, driving the enemy out of a line of works about 200 yards in ]eno-th It being deemed useless to pursue cavalry with infantry, I was directed, at sundown, to withdraw my brigade and re-establish my picket-line as it had been in the morning, which I did, the enemy following the skir - mish line as it retired. In this days operations a good deal of shoot- ing was done by the enemy, but in driving him more than a mile h Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. rCHAP. LVI. did not succeed in woinidirig one of our men. We recovered the bodies ot the enlisted men murdered the night before. I have no hesitancy iii saying they were deliberately murdered after they had surrendered, as was evidenced by an examination of the fatal wouiids. One man was shot through the head, the ball entering just above the left ear. Surrounding its entrance the hair was singed close to the scalp by the burning powder. The other two were shot throngh the body; one was shot three times, and the other twice. So close was the weapon held when discharged that in every instance the clothing was scorched and burned. Iii front of the left of my picket-line stood a cotton gin, con- taining forty-eight bales of cotton, the property of Asa Hoyt, behind which the enemy had concealed himself and fired upon my men in the morning. Not willing to give himii the advantage of that 1)ositiOll longer, upon the withdrawal of my troops I detailed Major Holmes, Fifty-see- oiid Ohio,,with a small party of nien, to destroy it, which they accord- ingly did, and which fact I reported to you in writing while the gin was still burning. This embraces the only property of any kind burned by my order during the campaign. December 1, marched at 10 a. in. as guard to Third Division train; reached camp at 11 p. m. December 2, marched at. S a. in.; furnished two regiments to guard the corps reserve artillery and ammunition trains~ reached camp at 8 l~ mu. l)ecember 3, marched at 9 a. m. on Augusta road; crossed Buck Head Creek and went into camup at dark on Mill Creek, near Lumpkins Station. December 4, marched at noon in rear of and as guard to Third Division trains; passed through Habersham and went into camp at 10 p. m. December 5, marched at 7 a. mu.; furnished guard of two regiments for corps reserve artillery and ammunition trains; went into camp for night at 7 p. m. December 6, marched at 6.30 a. in.; good roads all day. Matched twenty-one miles and a half on main Savannah road, aiid went iiit() C~ifll) for the night. Itoad blocked just ahead of this camp for three-quarters of a mile by fallen trees. At night 1 made a detail of sufficient pioneer force to clear the road, which they accomplished by 9 oclock. Decem- ber 7, marched at 11 a. m. iii rear and as guards to Third Divisiomi trains; reached camp micar Ebenezer Creek at 8 p. m. December 8, marched at 7 a. m. Order of march changed. Left all transportation except that belonging to brigade and regimental headquarters. Crossed Ebenezer Creek at 12 ni. and awaited time buildimmg of a bridge over Little Keglei-s Creek , after which we marched four umiles beyond and went into camnp at. 8 l~ m. In half an hour afterward I received orders to return and camp for the night between the two creeks. Got imito camp at 11 p. m. December 9, marched at 7 a. mu.; moved four miles, amid built two bridges over creeks. Moved about four miles farther on and encoun- tered a section of a rebel battery planted in the road, well protected by a substantial earth-work. I received orders fronm General Morgami to send the One hundred and twenty-fifth Illimmois 1~egiment forward, deployed as skirmishers on each side of tIme roa(l, and develop, if pos- sible, the strength of the enemny. TIme regiment thus moved to within 100 yards of the rebel works, without (ira~ving a shot from the enemnys musketry, thought his artillery playe(l continually upoim apiece of our own, posted in tIme road. The enemy had selected a good pnsition to make a brief stand with a smimall mmumber of mcii, having built his works in the center and omi either side of the road, just beyommd where it divides two swamps. By direction of Gemmeral Morgan I pushed forwaid the Eighty-sixth Illinois, six comupanies deployed as skirmishers, until it joined the right of the One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois. I thmem Page 199 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 199 directed Lieutenant-Colonel Fahnestock,conimanding the Eighty-sixth Illinois, to wheel gradually to the left, and if possible get his right to the enemys rear. This he did, so far as it was in his power, but his whole line was in a swamp, where vines, rank weeds, and undergrowth timber were so abundant that his progress was necessarily too slow to reach the desired 1)OSitiOn before dark, and at dark, by order of General Morgan, the entire line was halted an(l established as a picket-line for the night. During the night the enemy withdrew, and my skirmishers entered his works at daybreak. In this affair two men of the Eighty-sixth Illinois were wounded. December 10, marched at 7 a. m. Proceeded five miles in the direction of Savannah, when we struck the Twentieth Corps column. Went into camp for the afternoon and night on the left of the road. December 11, marched at 8 a. m. toward the city, as far as the Five-Mile Post, and turned to the right and marched about three- quarters of a mile, when, by the direction of General Morgan, I went into position in three lines, in reserve, facing south. My camp was as comfortable as I could wish, being on high ground and in the midst of a pine grove. December 12, in the afternoon my comnerand tore up and destroyed two miles and a half of track and ties on the Savannah and Macon Railroad. December 13, made the road destroyed yesterday suitable for a wagon road, after which the brigade did no other (luties than furnish train and other guards until the 22d of December, the day subsequent to the fall of Savannah, when my command marched to within one mile and a half of the city and went into camp in two lines, facing north, on the left of the canal, where we now are makimig pre- parations for such other work as -it may be our lot to perform. This brigade, though small, is perhaps in as good condition for active operations as any. There are many officers and men absent, whom I would be glad to have returned to their commands. While in camp at Atlanta, during the month of September last, there was perfected and forwarded a list of absentees, and efforts were being made to secure their return, but before much could be accomplished in this respect the brigade was put in motion and has only stopped since arriving at this place. The strength of the command is as follows: Present, commissioned officers, SO; enlisted men, 1,634. Absent, commissioned officers, 58; enlisted men, 1,177. Total, commissioned officers, 138; enlisted men, 2,811. After two days marching from Atlanta I found a necessity for a party of pioneers to clear out and repair bad places in the road. To meet this end I detailed thirty enlisted men for whom I could not pro. cure guns, and armed them with spades, picks, and axes. These I put under the command of Lieutenant Groninger, of the Eighty-sixth llhi- nois, an officer of 1 he proper spirit and energy to make such a party very useful. I required these pioneers to march each day at the head of the brigade column, and build rail or pole bridges over small streams for the safe and speedy passage of troops, and now we well appreciate the utility of such a force in all campaigns. When once drilled to labor they will perfbrin as much work in the same length as three times the number detailed temporarily from the ranks. On the 18th of November I began to subsist off the country, and to prevent as far as possible pillaging and marauding and all manner of lawlessness, I had details of thirty men and one commissioned officer made daily from each regiment, who reported, at an hour stated, at brigade headquarters, when these details were verified. These I put in charge of a field or acting field officer, whom I made responsible fo Page 200 200 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI the conduct of his men on that day. I directed that everything ob- tained should be reported to officer and by him turned over; if sub- sistence for the troops to the brigade commissary, or if mules and horses to the brigade quartermaster. By so doing my foragers always obtained plenty, and the troops shared alike in its distribution by the brigade commissary. From a statement submitted to me by Lieutenant Batchelder, acting commissary of subsistence, I find that from Novem- ber 16 until December 16 inclusive my command drew, per maim, of hard bread, nimme rations; pease, eight rations; coffee, twenty-six rations; salt, twenty-five rations; sugar, fifteen rations~ bacon, four rations; salt pork, six rations; beyond which issues the command subsisted from the country amid always had abundance. Besides this tabular statement of issues I left Atlanta with 150 head of beef-cattle, very poor in flesh and already weak from travel. The forage parties sup- plied the command so bountifully with fresh pork that but little beef was consumed on the march, amid before reaching Savannah nearly all those cattle had died along the road or were abandoned on account of beimig too weak to travel, but still my drove increased daily by acquisi- tions from the country, and on the 12th of December, when my com- mand took position before this city, it numbered about 230 head, large and small, all of which have since been issued to the troops. My forage details were frequently annoyed by the enemy, but by always keeping well together they were able to resist or drive away a considerable force. On the 30th of November particularly the foragers of the brigade, under command of Captain Powers, of the Twenty-second Indiana, were attacked, about nine midles from Louisville, by a part of Wheelers command, and, after a brisk fight, drove the enemy away. Toward night of the same day, as the detail was proceeding to camp at Louisville with four ox-wagomi loads of forage, they were suddenly sur- rounded by three of Wheelers regiments, and, after some very severe fighting succeeded iii getting into camnp with the loss of one man killed and four wounded, and were compelled to abandon their provisions amid wagons. On the 29th of November I mounted forty men on captured mules and horses, and placed the party under cOmmand of Captaimi Harbor, of the One hundred and twenty-fifth Illinois, a very brave and efficient officer. These labored to find where subsistence could be obtained, and to aid the infantry details in getting it, as well as for the purpose of capturing stock for the use of the army. It is not possible for me to state the exact number of horses and mules captured, as such property was frequently taken from my foragers while on their way to camp and informally turned over to Lieutenant Coe, quartermaster for the division. How many were so disposed of I can- not say. The nuniber actually captured and disposed of byorders from these headquarters, together with the number known to have been in- formally turned over to Lieutenant Coe, were: horses, 104; mules, 160; total, 264. These numbers might have beemi increased somewhat had I sent parties out to hunt exclusively for stock, but in mmearly every in- stance snch captures were the labors of my subsistence details. The miumber of negroes that followed my column was 160. Of these 92 were officers servants and 78 were refugees. The latter have been sent to division headquarters pursuant to orders. I submit and call your attention to casualty lists of the North Ala- bama and the Savannah campaigns hereto attached.* A few of these * Not found Page 201 201 C~. LVI.] TUb SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. marked missing deserve the puiiishinent prisoners oC war usually get, but it is the misfortune of the service that such men belong to the army and are counted as soldiers. They were doubtless in the act of stealing something when captured. I suppose every comman(l has a few such men; I know this one has, whom to lose from the army is a gain to the Goveiiiment. Nor can I say much less of some officers in the service, who, in spite of their long experience and in face of positive orders to the contrary, suffer, nay, by their passiveness encourage, their men to throw aside the restrictions of discipline, and become outlaws and brigands. I believe a company commander should be the best discipliii- arian in the service, and should feel that his position, so immediately connecting him with the rank and file, makes him a conservator of the peace and good order of the army; and an officer who from incompetency or other cause is not well adapted to teach aiid maintain a good system of discipline in his command, should be snummarily dismissed the serv- ice. A few such in my command I could cheerfully recommend for dismissal, and do honestly believe the service would be promoted thereby. Since the fall of Atlanta the brigade staff has undergone several changes. Most of the old members were absent during the Savannah campaign. Those at present serving on such duty, without specially naming them, have all well and faithfully discharged every trust con- fided to them. I am also under special obligations to regimental com- manders for their efforts to maintain strict discipline throughout the entire campaign. I commend them all to my superior officers. Number of horses captured, 104; mules, 160; total, 264. Number of negroes that followed the command, 160; rations issued on the Atlanta and Savannah campaigns, per man: hard bread, 9 rations; pease, 8 rations; coffee, 26 rations; salt, 25 rations; sugar, 15 rations; bacon, 4 rations; salt pork, 6 rations; amount of railroad destroyed (track amid ties), 11k miles; cotton destroyed, 48 bales; cotton gums destroyed, 1. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES W. LANGLEY, Lie at. Col., 125th Illinois Volunteers, Commanding Brigade. Capt T. WISEMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Diiris ion, Fourteenth Corps. No. 74. Report of Lient. Col. Charles W. Clancy, F~Jty-seeond Ohio Infantry. IIDQRS. FIFTY-SECOND Onlo VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Savannah, Ga., December 31, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this command in the late campaign which has resulted imi the (al)ture of Savannah: On the 16th day of November last I took command of the regimnent at Atlanta, Ga., and at 9 a. in. received orders to march. In compliance with said order moved at 11 a. m. as guards for division train; marched on a road running parallel with the Augusta and Atlamita Railroad through the town of Decatur; marched near fourteen mniles and encamped with the train at 9 p. m. 17th, moved with the brigade at 7 a in., following the One hundred and temith Ilhiuois~ assisted i Page 202 202 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. (CHAP. LVI. destroying a portion of the Augusta railroad; encamped at Conyers Station with the brigade at 7 p. m. 18th, marched with the brigade at 5 a. in. in the (lirection of Covinu ton, reaching the same at 12 in.; spent three hours in the destruction of railroad southeast of the town, then concluded a march of fifteen miles and encamped with the brigade. 19th, marched at 6 a. in. with the brigade in the direction of Eatonton, and at 6 p. in. encamped with the same near said place, having marched near eighteen miles. 20th, moved at 7 a. in. in the direction of Milledge- ville and west of Eatonton; ci icamped with the brigade at 3 p. in. 21st, marched with the brigade at 6 a.in. and encamped at 4 J). in. oim the west bank of Cedar Creek, where we remained until 6 a. in. of the 23d, when, with the Eighty-sixth Illinois, the command marched as rear guard for the division and eiicainped with the brigade near Milledge- yule at 11 p.m. 24th, moved at 10 a. in.,passing through Milledgeville; encamped with the brigade six miles southeast. 25th, marched at 6 a. in. and encamped with the brigade east of Buffalo Creek. 26th, marched with the brigade at 6 a. in., passing through the town of Sandersyille; encamped near and east of it at 12 in. 27th, marched with the brigade at 7 a in., crossing the Ogeechee River at Feuns Bridge; encamped near Rocky Comfort Creek, having marched fifteen miles. Companies A, F, D, I, and B were detailed for picket. 28th, picket companies were brought in at 6 a. in., and the command moved with the brigade and encamped two miles east of Louisville at 5 p. in. lii this camp the command remained until the 30th, when, at 2 p. in., I was ordered to move to a road about one mile to the right and support the pickets while their line advanced; light skirmishing ensued, but no loss was sustained. At this point, by order of brigade commander, Major Holmes, with a detail of men, burned one cotton gin, including bales of cotton. Moving a short distance to time right the entire regit on l)icket, relieving the Eighty-sixth illinois. nent was placed December 1, at 7 a.. in. I was ordered to return to the camp occupied the previous day, and at 10 a. in. marched with the brigade an(I en- camped at 11 p. m. 2d, moved at 9 a. mu. as train guards; marched twelve miles and encamped with time brigade at 10 p. in. 3d, marched with the brigade at 8 a. in., following the Twenty-second Indiana; en- camped at 7 p. in., having marched twelve miles. 4th, moved with time brigade at 10 a. in., crossing the railroad at Lnmpkins Station, and encaml)ed at 7 p. in. 5th, marched at 7 a. in. as train guard; encamped with the brigade at 9 p. in. near Buck head Creek Post-Office. 6th, marched at 6.20 a. in., leading the division; encamlml)ed with the brigade at 5 p. in., having marched seventeen miles; Companies C, E, and K were detailed for picket. 7th, moved with the brigade at 7 a. in., and encamped near Ebenezer Creek. 8th, moved with the brigade and encamped after a march of six miles. 9th, marched with the brigade on a road leading to Savannah at 2 p. in. The emmemy opened fire on the head of the~ col- umn from a battery in position on the road. I was ordered to take position on the right of the road and in rear of the Twenty-second In- diana. About 5 p. in. the command was moved near one mile to the right and encamped for the night. 10th, marched as rear guard for the division, encamping with the brigade at 2 p. in. 11th, marched with the brigade in the direction of Savannah, and when within five miles of the city encamped. 12th and 13th, destroyed a portion of time Macon railroad, returning to the same camp, which we occupied until the morning of the 22d, when the command moved, with the brigade, to its present camp Page 203 CHAP. LYI.l THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 203 During the entire campaign only three flays rations were issued to this regiment. A detail of thirty men, in charge of a commissioned offi- cer, was made each day to forage for the command, supplying it bounti- fully with meat and l)otatoes, and occasionally with ilonr and meal. This was done without molestation by the enemy until the 26th of No- vember, when, on entering the town of Sandersyille, a lively skirmish was kept up for utear an hour between the enemys cavalry and the foraging parties of the division, the detail from this command, in cli arge of Lieutenant Summers, participating. No casualties occurred in las command. Again, on the 30th, the (letail in charge of LieiutenaPt Melutire was attacked by the enemy in considerable force near Louisville, resulting iii a loss of S uneim1 wounded an(1 4 missing. Added to this 1 man missing at Feuns Bridge (on the 29th), and the list of casualties is com- plete. I have no correct means of ascertaining the number of horses and mules captured, from the fact that foragiimg l)arties rel)ort to the brigade commander. I can only state that there are at I)resent four horses amid twelve mules in this command, the property of the Government, all of which, I believe, have bcen accounted for. Juclosed will be found accurate notes of the l)art takeui by the corn- maiai in rear of Atlanta from the 28th of September to the 15th day of November, while in command of Major Holmes. In conclusion, it is my duty to say, in commendation of both officers and men, that all (lid their (imity prolnJ)tly, under all circumstances, ad- hering strictly to that good order and soldierly bearing that had hith- erto characterized them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. W. CLANCY, Lientenan t- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Lient. M. W TANNER, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gem, 3d Brig., 2d Dir., 11th Army Corps. No. 75. Report of Brig. Gen. Absalom Baird, U. ~. Army, commanding Third Division. HDQRS. THIRD DIVIsIoN, FOITRTEE.NTH ARMY CORPS, ASrannah, Ga., January 7, 1865. COLONEL :t November 15, marched through and camped near the city of Atlanta. November 16, l)asse(l through Decatur and marched as far as Snapfinger Creek. From the 17th tIme march was continued through Lithonia, Conyers, crossing Yellow Rmver, through Covington, over the Ulcofan- hachee, through Shady Dale, an(l reaching the city of Mihledgeville. On the morning of the 25t1m crossed the Ocomiee, and destroyed the bridge. On the 26th arrived at Sammdersville. November 27, division started for Louisville, taking the road to Feuns Bridge, the First and Secomid Divisions, with all the traimus of the corps, following the direct road. Head of column reached 1~ocky Comfort Creek at 8.30 a. in., but the Not found. For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations in North Georgia and North Alabama; see Vol. XXXIX, 1~art 1, m 646 Page 204 204 OPERATIONS IN S. (I, GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LU. bridge having been destroyed by the enemy, wa~ unable to cross till late iii the afternoon. Encamped near Louisville, where the division remained until December 1, 1864. December 1, at 10 a. m. divisioii moved from camp near Louisville, Ga., in company with General Kilpatricks division of cavalry, and weiit into camp at 5 p. in., on the bank of Buck llea(l _Creek. i)nring the day considerable skirmishing with the enemys cavalry, with a loss on our side of 3 men killed and 10 wounded. December 2, met the enemy again at Rocky Creek, at 10 a. in., posted behind stroimg barricades and disposed to dispute our crossimig at the ford. Time Seventy-fourth Indiana charged and dispersed them, and the divisiomi marched to the farm of Mr. Gisholma and went into camp. December 8, arrived at Thomas Statioim, on the Savanmmah and Augusta road, amid during the night thoroughly destroyed several inil es of railroad track. l)ecember 4, General Kilpatrick attacked the emiemimys cavalry one mile from Thomas Station, and diove them in confusion through Waynesborongli and two miles beyond. Division followed up an(l supported General Kilpatrick during the day, and tlmen mimade a niglmt mnarch to Alexander. December 5, reached Jacksonborongh. Decemuber 6, arrived at Beaver I)arn Creek, and joined time other two divisiomis of time corl)s. Deceni- her 7, late at night, reached Sisters Ferry. I)ecemnber 8, remained in camp during the (lay and had considerable skirmishing with the advance of the enemys cavalry. Marched at mi(lm might, and crosse(l Ebenezer Creek at 3 a. m. Deceumber 9. December 10, emmcanipe(l withimi twelve miles of Savannah, making short immarches. I )ivision encamped, Decemn- ber 13, on the Louisville road, six miles from tIme city, where it remained until the 22(1, at which time, ti me city having l)eemi evacuated on the night of the 20th, it was move(l to a i)ositiomm (still occupied) half a mile fromn the town. December 27, corps reviewed by Major-General Sher- man. The divisiomi entere(l upon the campaign organized as it had hitherto been into three brigades of imiflintry, comnmmmamm(ied respectively by Col. George P. Este, Fourteemith Ohio Volumiteers, Col. Morton C. Hunter, Ei glity-second Indiana Volunteers, amid Col. N. Gleason, F seventh Indiana Volunteers. Time Fifth Wisconsin Battery, four gulls, Capt. Joseph McKnight, was likewise attaclmed to it. Our effective force of fighting men durimig time whole march was, upon an average, a little under 5,000; the numuber of mnouths which we had to feed, including teamsters and servants, somewhat over 6,000. We cut loose from our connections at Atlanta to mnarch to this point with the following 5u1)phies: 57,000 ratiomis bread (about nimme amid a half days), 161,000 rations coffee (about twemity-seven days), 117,000 rations sugar (about nineteemi days), 30,000 rations salt macat (about five days), amid aim abundance of salt, witlm 5omne camidles and soap. We also started with 550 head of beefeattle, amid have yet remaining seventy- five head. On these supplies, together with whmat was drawn from the country, the division subsisted from the 16th of November to the 16th of December. The amount of sweet potatoes, hogs, cattle, and poultry taken in time country and -consumned by time troops cammnot be estimated, but it must have been very large, the men living well. The division destroyed quite effectually eighteen miles of railroad and two large bridges, that over Rocky Comufort Creek, on time Augusta road, and timat over the Oconee River at Mihledgevihle, as well as the State magazine at that place. It destroyed, I feel quite sure, 1,000 bales of cotton, and probably less than 2,000 bales. The amoumut of forage and other minor articles consnmned and de- stroyed cannot be estimated. The comunmand foraged liberally. Th Page 205 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAYAN~AH CAMPAIGN. 205 number of drafted and saddle animals captured was about 597. Some of them were u8ed to replace those iii our trains already worn out; others were worthless, and my quartermaster has still about 400 head to turn over. Negroes to the number of about 668 joiiied or followed our column on the march, and have since our arrival here either beeii employed or turned over to the proxost-inarshal. A large number was probably with the column or near it at certain times, but as no notice was takemi of any of them and no restraint exercised over those simply passing aloiig the road, many doubtless disappeared without any account being had of them. The division captured 16 prisojiers, and its loss in action was 8 memi wounded, 3 of whom afterward died. The list of casualties by name is appended. In closing this report I have again to commend to the notice of my sul)erior commanders the ability and meritorions services of Col. George P. Este, Fourteenth Ohio; Col. Morton C. Hunter, Eighty-see- ond Indiana, and Col. N. Gleason, Eighty-seventh Indiana, who coin- manded my three brigades, and to ask for their promotion, at least by brevet, to the rank of brigadier-general. I have also to request that Col. B. D. Fearing, Ninety-second Ohio Volunteers, an officer of sur- passing merit and the only other full colonel who made the campaign with the division, may be promoted to the same grade. To my staff officers I am again deeply indebted, and I beg to renew the recommendations which I have heretofore given for their promo- tion. I am, sir, very respectfully, A. BAIRD, !3rigadier- (Ienercti, Comnwn ding Division. Lient. Col. A. C. MCCLuIW, Assistant Adjutant- Generc 1, Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 76. Report of Lient. Joseph ft. Channel, Battery C, First Illinois Light Artillery. HEADQUARTERS BATTERY C, FIRST ILLINOIS ARTILLERY, Aear & trannah, Ua., Deeember 30, 1864. CAPTAIN: In obedience to circular received I have time honor to submit the following report: While in camp near Atlanta, Ga., I received orders, on tIme 2d of October, to prepare to march next mnorning with thirteen days rations and three days forage, and to report to Brigadier-General Carlin, commanding First Division. I joined the division as directed, and marched with it throughout the entire campaign north of Atlanta, returning to that point on tIme 13th of November, 1864. During the campaign I drew about sixteen days full rations amid fifteen days lorage; the remnainder of the forage and subsistence 1 obtained frommi the country along the line of march. After renmaining iii Atlamita, Ga., one night I again joined the First Divisiomi, Fourteemith Army Corps (in obedience to orders), with three days rations and three days forage, and marched with it to a point near savannah, Ga., where I took u Page 206 206 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [Onip. LVI. position in line of battle on the 12th of I)ecember; was engaged lightly by the enemys batteries on the 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 19th, and 20th, during which time I expeiided 283 rounds of ammunition without any loss, except one wheel belonging to a gun carriage. On the 22d I moved into camp near the city of Savannah, Ga., the enemy having evacuated the night before. During tne march from Atlanta I drew three days full rations and oiie (lays forage; the remainder of forage and subsistence T obtained along the line of march. During the entire campaign the officers and men of the battery l)erforlued their duty well in every respect. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPh R. ChANNEL, First Lieutenant, Corn 4g. Battery (1. First Illinois Artillery. No. 77. Report of Brig. Geut. Aipheus S. lVill~arns, U. S. Army, commanding Twentieth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH Cones (Ia J Savannah, ., anuary 9, 1865. COLONEL :~ Changes in the principal commands of the corps since the last cam- paign left the organization as follows: First Division, Brig. Gen. N. J. Jackson commandingthree brigades, commanded, respectively, byCol- onels Selfridge, Carin an, and Robin son; Second Division, Brig. Gen. J. W. Geary commandingthree brigades, commanded by Colonels Pardee, Jones, and Barnum; Third Division, Brig. Gen. ~ T. Ward commandingthree brigades, coummancled b~ Colonels Smith 1)ustin amid Ross. A list of the regiments composing the brigades will be found in reports of subordinate commanders. The artillery was re- duced to four batteries of -four gnus each, two of 3-inch Rodmnamis and two of 12-pounder Napoleons, nuder charge of 1~Inj. J. A. Reynolds, chief of artillery; the horses were increasPd to eight to a carriage. The Ninth Illinois Infantry (unounted), Lieutenant-Colonel hughes couninamiding, joined time command omt the second day amid remained with it through to Savannah, amid l)erformed excellent service through- ont. One battalion of Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, Lieutenant- Colonel Moore comnmnanding, with pontoon train, was also attached to the corps, and was very useful (luring the mnarch. On the mornimig of the 15th of Novemmuber the corps marched from Atlanta, taking the road east through l)ecatur. We emlcalnl)e(l On 15th near the Georgia railroad, south of Stone Mountain; on evening of the 1(5th near Rock Bridge Post-Office; on 17th near Cornish Creek, ammd omi the 18th three miles west of Madison. The country for the first three days march was very hilly, and the crossing at Yellow River, Little Hay mines River, and other streams very bad. The condition of the teams was not goo(l, and delays to the rear of our long column were consequently vexatious and protracted. Gearys divis ion was (letached unencumbered on the unornimig of the 19th, with orders to destroy the Georgia railroad bridge over the Oconee River and such wagon bridges as he unight fluid on that river towar(i Milledgeville. The purpose was 4For portion of report (here omitted) rel4iug to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIN, Part I, p. 649 Page 207 LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 207 fully accomplished, and several miles of railroad, as ~ eli as the long railroad bridge over the Oconee, were destroyed. A wagon bridge over that river and several mills and factories were also buiiied. The division rejoined the column on the 21st before reaching Little River; the other two divisions, with the trains of the corps, moved through Madison and encamped four miles beyond. About six miles of railroad were destroyed by Wards division. Supplies for man and beast became abundant on third day after leaving Atlanta. Oii 20th moved forward and encamped near Eatonton. The afternoon was rainy and the roads heavy. On 21st marched through Eatonton, encamping near Little River. Two or three miles of the Eatonton Branch Railroad were destroyed oii the march. On22d, having laid the pontoon bridge over Little River, the corps crossed and moved forward to the suburbs of Milledgeville. Two regiments under Colonel Huwley, Third Wisconsin Volunteers, ap- pointed commandant of the post, were seiit to occupy the town. The First and Second Divisions were encamped on the east side of the Oconee aiid the Third Division on the west side near the bridge. Large quantities of arms, ammunition, and accouterments were found and destroyed, as well as salt and other public property. The report of Colonel Hawley, commander of post, forwarded herewith ,~ will give the details of this property. The railroad depot, two arsenals, a powder magazine, and other public buildings aimd shops, were burned. The railroad track for live miles toward Gordon was destroyed. On 24th the march was resumed and the divisions encamped near Gum Creek, and on the 25th, after some delay to rebuild the bridge over Buffalo Creek and swamp, the head of the column encamped about seven miles from Sandersville. - Some skirmishing was had, and the enemys cavalry was driven away by Colonel Robinsons brigade just as we were going into camp. On the following morning, 26th, two regiments of Carnians brigade, Jacksons division, drove away the rebel cavalry and the corps moved rapidly into Sandersvihle, entering simultaneously with the Fourteenth Corps npon a road on our left. In the afterimoon the First and Second Divisions were moved down to Tennille Station (No. 13), the Third Divis- ion being left to cover the trains. The First Michigan Engineers reported for duty with the corps. On 27th, 28th, arid 29th the Cerm- tral railroad and all wagon bridges over Williamsons Swamp Creek were destroyed from Tennille Station to the Ogeechmee River, including the long railroad bridge over that stream by the First and Second Divisions and Michigan Engineers. TIme Third Division marched with the traimis, via Davisborough, across the Ogeechee and Rocky Comfort Rivers, and en camped near Louisville. On the 30th tIme First and Second Divisions moved up the Ogeechmee to Cowards Bridge, which was found partly destroyed but easily repaired. The whole corps encamped about three miles south of Louisville, between the Oconee amid the Ogeechee. The roads, excepting at the river and swamp crossimigs, were good, the country very level, and the weather during the march superb; sup- plies of all kinds were very abundamit. From the 1st to the 8th of December our line of march was down the peninsula between the Ogeechee and Savaimnalin Rivers, following the Louisville amid Savannah road, encamping on the 1st on Bakers Creek, on the 2d at Buck Head Church, on 3d at Horse Creek, on 4th at Little Ogeechee, on 5th at Sylvania Cross-Roads, on 6th near Cowpens Creek, on 7th on Jacks Branch, near S~)ringfield, and on 8th umear Eden Cross-Roads. As we approached the coast the surface of the country became flat and swampy. Large l)onds or l)ools were met every mile *Set.p 245 Page 208 208 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. or so, and the creeks spread out into several iniry branches. The roads between the creeks and ponds, though appareiitly of sandy and sub- stantial character, proved to be upon a thin crust, which was soon cut through by our bug trains into the deep quicksand, requiring miles of corduroy. At several of the swamps the enemy had attempted to obstruct our march by f~lling timber. The supplies continued good and the weather excellent. On the 9th our direction of mriarch was changed to the east, taking the road from Edeu to Monteith Post-Office, on the Charleston railroad. At the large Monteith swamp we found that the enemy, besides obstructing the road for nearly a mile by felling trees, had built two small earth-works, and, with a single gun and about 400 infantry, was making a show of stopping our march. Jacksons division being in advance, he was ordered to thro~v out several regiments on each if ank, while a brigade in the center should make a feint to engage attention and enable the pioneers to clear the obstructions. Our hope of capturing the whole party did not succeed, but their pretentious defenses were speedily abandomied as soon as a portion of Robinsons brigade, under Colonel West, Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers, could cross the swamp. The fugitives left behind a considerable quantity of nc~v clothing and accouterments. Our loss was one man killed and four wounded. Much praise was awarded to Colonel West for his conduct on this occasion. On the following momning (10th of l)ecember) the corps moved down to Monteith Station, on the Charleston raihoad, and, after destroying some miles of the road, unarched to near the Five-Mile post on the Au- gusta and Savannah Railroad. At this point, mneeting with the enemys strong line of defenses behind swamps and artificial ponds, the corps was ordered to encamp for the night. During the afternoon a party of foragers, with sonme cavalry, succeeded iii bringing to and capturing, near the foot of Argyle Island, a rebel dispatch boat, called the Ida, having on board Colonel Clinch, of General Ilardees staff, with dis- patches for gun-boats above. The boat was unfortunately set on fire and burned. On the 11th Gearys division was moved to the left, en- countering some opposition froun rebel pickets. They were, however, driven back into the main works, and our line was established from the Savannah River, near William sons plantation, in advance of Pipe- makers Creek, across the Charleston railroad to the Central railr6ad, a few hundred yards from the junction of the two roads, connecting with the Fourteenth Corps (Third Division on the right, First Division in center, and Second Division on the left). On the 12th Winegars battery (four 3-inch guns), which had been placed in position at Tweed- side to command the channel betweenArgyle Island and the Georgia shome, drove back two gun-boats attempting to descend the river, and so crippled the tender Resolute as to drive her aground, in which posi- tion she was taken possession of by Colonel Hawley, Third Wisconsin Volunteers, whose regiment was on duty on Argyle Island. Five naval officers and nineteen men were captured, besides a quantity of ordnance and subsistence stores. The boat, which was without armament, was subsequently turned over to the quartermasters department, and is now in our service. From tIme 13th to the 20th several changes were mnade in the posi- tions of the tm-oops: Robinsons brigade, of the First Division, was sent back to Cherokee Hill to cover the roads in our I-ear; two regiments froun Gearys division occupied time upper end of ilutchinsons Island; Carmans brigade, First Division, was sent to Argyle Island an Page 209 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 209 subsequently across to the Carolina shore with a section of Battery I, First New York Artillery. He took up a strong position 01) the 19th in advance of Izards house, and made several demonstrations and re- connaissances toward Clydesdale Creek and the Union causeway road from Savannah to Hardeeville. The enemy opposed these movements in strong torce. The nature of the country for miles back (being rice plantations crossed by dikes aiid canals) effectually prevented any. thing beyond a menace. These threatening movements, however, un- doubtedly hastened the evacuation of Savannah. In the meantime our main line was pushed toward the enemys works, and preparations for assault made by close reconnaissances, construction of light bridges, and experiments with balks of the pontoon train and fascines of straw and cane for bridging canals. Strong field-works were constructed for the heavy guns and for the field guns, some of them masked on the road within ThO yards of the enemys line. These preparations were com- l)leted on the 20th. The assailable points in our front were very few; almost every foot was covered deep by artificial ponds from the irrigat- ing canals, be hind which and upon the approaches were strong earth- works for artillery, connected throughout by rifle-pits well constructed. The confidence of the troops in carrying these works was, however, perfect and earnest. l)uring the day of the 20th the fire from the enemys works and gun- boats was unusually heavy and continuous. Reports from Carmans brigade indicated that large columns were crossing to the Carolina shore, either to cover their only line of communication or preparatory to afinal evacuation of the city. In the night General Geary reported to me that the movements across the river were apparemitly still going on. Division commanders were instructed to keep on the alert and press themr pmckets closer to the rebel works, b itt the enemy, intending to abandon his heavy guns, kept up a fire until the moment of quitting their defenses. At 3.30 oclock on the mornimig of the 21st Geary reported that Barnumus brigade was in the rebel mnain line. Orders were sent him and General Ward to advance the picket-hues and fol- low with their (livisions into tile city. By 0 a. mu. Gearys division without opposition had entered the city. Patrols were semit out to pre- serve order. Two regiments were ordered to occupy Fort Jackson and other works below- tlme city. General Geary was temporarily assigned to the comumnaud of the post and his divisiomt placed withimt the city. The retreating rebels had disconnected the pontoon bridge to Hutch- insons Island and set fire to that connecting with the Carolina shore. The ram Savannah still lay off Screvens Ferry, two miles or so away, and occasionally fired a shot toward the town. She was evidently covering the removal of supplies up the causeway road. There were no means of reachimig her, and our gumis, thought well served, plainly did her no damage. At night she was destroyed, as had been all the other rebel publmc vessels time day previous. Time troops of the corps while in front of the rebel works suffered a number of casualties. Among those killed was Lieut. C. A. Ahreets, One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volumiteers, assistant to Lieu- tenant-Colommel Asmussen, inspector-general of the corps, an excellent ammd faithful young officer. Among the severely wounded was Col. John H. Ketcham, One hundred amid fiftieth New York Volunteers, an officer of superior imtelhigence and worth. Major Wright, Twenty- ninth Ohio Volunteers, an excellent officer, also received a painful wound. 14 ii liVOL XLI Page 210 210 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYI. I append hereto a series of campaign maps,* prepared by Captain McDowell, chief topographical engineer for the corps, showing the positions of the several divisions at each camp during the march from Atlanta to Savannah. These positions were laid down and the notes accompanying the maps kept by Lieutenant-Colonel Asmussen, inspec- tor-general of th.~ corps. The faithful and skillful manner in which this work is done presents a complete and accurate view of the daily marches of the corFs. Tabular statement marked A shows the casualties of the corps by divisions during the campaignan aggregate of 12 killed, 88 wounded, 165 missing. Of the missing the greater part were stragglers and small parties of foragers captured. Some few were deserting bounty- jumpers, who had reached us just before marching from Atlanta. In the case of Captain Reid, One hundred and seventh New York Yolunteers, missing with a detail of forty-three men, foraging, I have ordered a special report of the statements made by a rebel cavalry officer who was of the capturing party. If these statements are true, Captain Reid behaved in a most shameful and cowardly manner, and should be dis- missed in disgrace. As both officer and men are still prisoners of war no proper investigation can now be made. We captured, on the march and before Savannah, 30 officers (13 of whom were naval), 135 privates, and 14 seamen; 122 deserters came into our ranks. A tabular statement and list of officers captured pre- pared by Major Parks, provost-marshal, is attached hereto, marked B.t A very considerable number of prisoners were taken on entering the city, all of whom are in the hands of the post commandant and will be the subject of report by him. I make the following estimates of public property destroyed and sup. plies taken from the country, npon information from commanders and staff officers, approved by my own observation and judgment: Miles marched by the troops 305 Miles trains moved (as per odometer) 281. 35 Miles of railroad destroyed 71 Besides railroad destroyed, more than a million feet of timber for the largest sized bridges and thousands of cords of wood were burned. Number of animals taken from country: Horses, reported by Captain Whittelsey, chief quartermaster 410 Horses, reported by Major Reynolds, chief of artillery 40 Horses, put into teams and not reported (estimated) 150 600 Mules, reported by Captain Whittelsey 1,020 Mules, reported by Major Reynolds 100 Mules, put into trains in exchange for poor animals and never reported (estimated) 600 1, 720 Total animals 2,320 Forage By Captain Whittelseys report: Vounds. Corn taken en route 1,227,984 Corn taken east of Atlanta 1,932,468 By Major Reynolds report 130, 000 Total corn 3, 290, 452 See Plate LXXI, Maps I to 11 of th.e Atlas. I Omitted Page 211 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 211 Forage By Captain XVhittelseys report: Pounds. Fodder taken en route 1, 091, 819 Fodder taken near Atlanta~ 138, 200 Total fodder 1,229,819 Rice fodder: By Captain Whittelseys report 550, 694 By Major Reynolds report 20,000 Total rice fodder 570, 694 There was with the corps an average of over 7,000 animals. At the regulation allowance these animals would have consumed, in twenty- days, 2,100,000 pounds corn; hay or fodder, 2,450,000 pounds. I estimate that at least this quantity was taken from the couiitry on the march and exclusive of that taken before marching from Atlanta. Upon this basis estimates made on actual returns to Captain Whit- telsey and Major Reynolds will be increased over 700,000 pounds of corn and 800,000 pounds of fodder. The waste of this, as of other articles, was enormous. Subsistence taken from the country, as per report of Lieutenant-Colonel Balloch, chief cononissory of subsistence. Fresh beef pounds.. 400, 000 Fresh pork and mutton do .... 150, 000 Rice do.... 110,000 Flour do - - -. 20, 000 Sweet potatoes bushels.. 6, 500 Sorghum sirup gallons - - 4, 000 Of the quantities of turkeys, geese, ducks, and ponihy of all kinds taken, no approximate ~stiniate can be made. For at least 200 miles of our route these articles were in great abundance, and were used lavishly and wastefully. So of the other articles above mentioned, it would be safe to say that the amount might be doubled for waste and subsist- ence of the thousands of refugee slaves who followed our march. Gotton.J estimate the quantity of cotton burned by the corps at 5,000 bales, or 2,500,000 poull(1s. The estimate is probably low, as our line of march was through some of the best cotton-growing portions of Georgia, and we swept, with our foragers an(l flankers, a belt of six to eight miles in width of all the cotton and most of the gins and presses. No large accumulations were found except at Milledgeville, reported 1,800 bales, bonded by order of General Sherman; near Sandersville, where about 100 bales were destroyed; at Lee Jordans plantation, 280 bales destroyed by General Geary, and at Teiinille Station, on Central railroad, where between 300 and 400 bales were burned; other lots rang- ing from ten to thirty bales were frequently found. Pugitice slaves.Negroes of all ages and of every variety of physical condition, fromn the infant in its mothers arms to the decrepid old man, joined the column from plantations an(l froni cross-roads, singly amid in large groups, on toot, on horseback, an(l in every description of vehicles. The vehicles were discarded, as obstructing the progress of our very long column. Beyond this no effort was mnade to drive away the fugitives. The deerepid, the aged, amid the feeble were told of the long journey before them, and advised to remnain behind. I estimnate that at from 6,000 to 8,000 slaves, at different points in the cam- paign, joined the march of this corps, of whom somnethimig over 2,500 reached our camp before Savannah. About 1,700, of whom one-thir Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. were able-bodied, were, on account of scarcity of subsistence, placed in colony on the Coleraine plantation, on the Savannah liver, and plenti- fully supplied with rice, and occasionally with beef~ The able-bodied men were employed in transporting rice from the islands and in work- ing rice mills. When communication was opened by way of the Ogeechee the whole colony was turned over to the chief quartermaster and chief commissary. Four hundred to 500, n9t of the colony, found employment as o~cers servants and teamsters fJr the Government. Ordnance and ordnance stores destroyed in 3Iillcdqerille, per report of Colonel Hawley, commanding post. Muskets (caliber .69) 2, 300 Accouterments (sets) 300 Lances 5,000 Cutlasses 1, 500 Ammunition (caliber .69) rouuds. 10,000 Ammunition (fixed artillery) boxes - 170 Powder kegs - - 200 Destroyed at Milledgerille by Lientenant Shepherd, ordnance officer, artillery, as per re- ])ort of Major Reynolds, chief of artillery. Fixed ammunition: Artillery rounds. - 3, 500 Infantry do - - - - 20, 000 Sharps primers boxes - 2 Powder pounds. 2,000 Major Reynolds reports the number of guns of all calibers found in and around Savannah in works first taken possession of by the Twen- tieth Corps at 89. Of these, 23 of calibers from 6-pounder smooth-bores to 42-pounder carronades were found in position in front of the line occupied by the corps before Savannah. Major Reynolds report, for- warded herewith, will furnish details.* On entering the city General Geary took possession of a large quantity of ordnance stores and materials of war, details of which will be found in his report to these headquarters. They are not recapitulated, as the chief ordnance offi- cer has doubtless already received schedules of them. Notwithstanding repeated instances of wanton pillage occurred on the march, the general conduct of the men was orderly, contented, and faithful to duty. The nature of the march was calculated to relax dis- cipline, and yet, after all, it was comparatively but the few (ever found in large bodies of men) who were disorderly and vicious. The labor, especially of those in guard of the trains, was very arduous, often extending through the uight. I calculate our average (laily marches for each marching day exceeded thirteen miles. Two of the divisions rested but one entire day without marching. The division commanders deserve my cordial acknowledgments for zealous, cheerful, and intelligent co-operation at all times. 1 desire also to acknowledge time valuable services of Major Yates and the officers and men of the First Michigan Mechanics and Engineers, who, while tem- porarily attached to the corps, were indefatigable, as well as skillful, in assisting in the destruction of railroads, in constrncting bridges, and repairing roads. From the length of the column, often from ten to fifteen miles, the duties which fell npon several officers of the staff were often very laborious and fatiguing, bu~ were always executed with clieerfuhiiess and zeal. I desire, in an especial report hereafter, to bring to the notice of the See p. 356 Page 213 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 213 major-general commanding, aud through him to the Government, the names of such of these officers whose meritorious services on this and previons campaigns entitle them, I think, to promotion. I forward herewith the reports of division commanders and such subordinate reports as have becit received, also reports and statements of staff officers covering estimates of property destroyed and supplies taken from the conntry. I aiii, colonel, very respectfully, your obe dient~ervant, A. S. ~LLJAMS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lieut. Col. II. C. RODGERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. A. Reort of ca8na.lties in the Twentieth Corps from October 28 to December 27, 1864, incinsive. Killed Wounded Missing. a Diviajon. 53 bL - PS S 0 Headquarters Twentieth Corps 1 1 First Division 2 ... 88 109 Second Division K 8 ~ 58 ... 46 114 Third Division 1 1 7 - - - 28 37 Artillery 1 2 4 Total 164 265 Journal accompanying campaign maps,* siw wing positions of the Twentieth Army Corps on the maich from Atlanta to Saannah, November 15 to J)ecember 21, 18(11, submitted with report of Bvt. ]IIaj. Gen. A. S. Will- iams, U. S. Army, dated January 9, 18G5. Noveinbei~ 15.Order of march: First, Second, aisd Third Divisions. The Third Division (lid not arrive at the J)lace of destination until 8 a. m. next day. No supplies gathered. Weather fine. Road good, but hilly. No iml)ortallt bridges OH streamiis werc crossed. l)istance, ix- teen miles. November 1G.Order of march: Second, Thud, and First l)ivisions. Weather fine. Road goo(l, but hilly. The crossing of the Yellow River at Rock Bridge bad and easily disputed. Supplies scatity, except some forage and live stock. Distance, eight iiiilcs. November 17.Order of marcil: Second, Third, and First l)ivisions. Weather fine. Road good, but very hilly, particularly at the crossing of Little Haynes Creek. Supplies more plenty. Distance, sixteen miles. November 18.Order of march: Second, Third, an(l First Divisions. Weather fine. Rain during the night. Road excellent. Water scarce after leaving the Ulcofauhachee River. Supplies scarce. Poor country. Distance, fitteen miles. Su. Platc LXXI, Maps 1 to 11 4 the Alias Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [Cn~.P. LVI. November 19.Order of march: Cavalry, First an(1 Third l)ivis- ions, the Second Division detached. Railroad destroyed to Madison, Weather rainy. Roads good, but muddy. Supplies more plenty. Distance, seven miles. November 20.Order of march: Cavalry, Third and First Divisions, Second Division detached. Weather cloudy. Commenced raining 5 j). m. Road good, but heavy. Supplies not so plenty. Distance, twelve miles. November 21.~der of march: Cavalry, Third and First Divisions, Second Division detached. Pontoons laid across Little River. Weather very rainy. Road very muddy and worn. The condition of the road caused the Third Brigade, First Division, to encamp two miles to the rear. Supplies more plenty. Distance, thirteen miles. Yoveiube~~ 22.Order of march: Cavalry, First, Second, and Third Divisions. Weather cold, clear, but windy. Road good. Supplies plenty. Distance, fifteen miles. November 23.The troops remained in canip. November 24.Order of march: Cavalry, First, Second, and Third Divisions. Weather fine. Road excellent. Supplies not so pleiity. Distance thirteen miles. November 25.Order of march : Cavalry, First, Second, and Third Divisions. Time cavalry had a skirmish with Wheelers cavalry. Weather fine. iload good, except the crossing of l3uthdo Creek, the bridges of the dam being destroyed. Supplies not so plenty. Poor country. Distance, eight miles. November 2G.Order of march: First, Second, Third Divisions, cav- alry on the flanks. The troops entere(l Sandersville simultaneously with Fourteenth Corps, skirmimishing with enemys cavalry. After entering town the First and Second Divisions, preceded by the cavalry, went to Teimnille Station to destroy the railroad. The Michigan Engi- neers reporte(l for duty and accompanied tIme column to said Station No. 13. Third Division covered trains at Sandersville. Weather clear. Road excellent. Supplies plenty. Distance, twelve miles. November 27.Order of march: First Division, l)rece(led by the cav- alry, moved south of Georgia Central Railroad, while Second Division and Michigan Engineers destroyed the same to within five miles of Davisborouglm. The Third l)ivision and trains moved from Sanders- ville to Davisborough. Weather fine. Roa(l excellent. rI~he bridge at Davisborongh over Williamsons Swamp Creek was imot destroyed. Supplies plenty. Distance, fifteen in iles. November 28.Order of march: Time Cavalry, Third Division, and train moved toward Louisville and encamped on Ogeechee River. The First Division destroyed railroad to Spiems Station. The Michigan En- gineers an(l Second 1)ivision destroyed railroa(l at and west of Davis- borough, time Second Brigade, Second Division, covering part of the train to Spiers Station. Weather fine. Road excellent. Supplies abundant. Distance, twelve miles. November 29.Order of march: Cavalry, Third 1)ivisiomm, and train crossed the Ogeechee and Rocky Comfort Creek on pontoons amid en- camped southeast of Louisville. Time First and Second Brigades, First Division, destroyed railroad from Spiers Station to Station 1O~ tIme Secommd Brigade, Second Division, from l0~ to Ogeechee River; the re- mainder of Second Division and Micliigaim Engineers moved up from Davisborough, Third Brigade, First T)ivision, protecting part of train. ~\Teatimer fine. Road good. Supplies plenty. I)istance, nine miles. Norem ber 30.Order of mamclm: Fin diii g Ragfords Bridge destroyed, time First and Second I)ivisioiis ~i1i(l Michigan Eiigimieers crossed tim Page 215 OnAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 215 Ogeechee at Cowards Bridge after repairing it, and en~amped on the right of the Third Division. Weather warm. Road swampy. Sup- ])IiCS scarce. Poor country. Distance, ten miles. J)ecember 1.Order of march: Cavalry, Second Division, Michigan Eiigineers, First and Third Divisions. Weather warm. Road swampy. Snpplies more plenty. Distance, thirteen miles. December 2.Order of march: Cavalry, Second Division, Michigan Engineers, First and Third Divisions. The cavalry drove in the rebel pickets near Buck Head Church.~ Weather cloudy. Road good, except the crossing Buck Head Creek, the bridges across the swamp being partially destroyed. Supplies abundant. Distance, eleven miles. December 8.Order of march: Cavalry, First Division, Michigan Engineers, Third and Second Divisions, Weather cloudy. Clear in the afternoon. Road good. Supplies plenty. Distance, fifteen miles. December 4.Order of march: Cavalry, First l)ivision, Michigan E~ineers, Third and Second Divisions. Weather fi tie. Road swampy. Supplies not so plenty. Distance, fifteen miles. December 5.Order of march: Third, Second, and First Divisions. Cavalry sent to communicate with Fourteenth Corps. Michigan Engi. xieers ordered to army headquarters. Weather fine. Road fair. Sup- plies plenty. Distance, six miles. December G.Order of march: Cavalry, Third, Second, and First Divisions. Weather good. It rained during the night. Road fair swampy. Supplies plenty. Distance, thirteen miles. December 7.Order of march: Cavalry, Third, Second, and First Divisions. Weather, raining in the morning, cloudy iu the afternoon. Road fair, but swampy. The crossing of Jacks Creek, near Springfield, was very bad. Supplies abundant. Distance, ten miles. December 8.Order of in arch: Cavalry, Second, First, Third Divis- ions, and train. Weather fine. Roa.d good until the troops struck the Eden Cross-Road, which was very swampy. Supplies plenty. Dis- tance, ten miles. December 9.Order of march: Cavalry, First, Second, and Third Divisions. The First Division repulsed the enemy near Mont eith. Weather cloudy. Road, good pike. Supplies plenty. Distance, nine miles. December 10.Order of march: Cavalry, First, Third, and Second Divisions. First Division destroyed Charleston railroad. The troops cal)tured steamer Ida and burnt it. XXreatller cloudy. Road, good pike. Distance, ten miles. December 11.The trOoI)5 moved into position in frontof the enemys works. The Third Division established commnection with Seventeenth Corps, which was that day relieved by the Fourteenth Corps. Breast. works thrown up. Twenty-secomid Wiscon sin and Battery I, First New York Artillery, moved to the Savannah River. Eighty-second amid One hundred and first Regiments Illinois Volunteers, and Sixty-first Regi- ment Ohio Volunteers stationed at Cherokee lull. Weather fine, but cold. Supplies scanty. A quantity of rice was fbund and a mill set to running to prepare it for the troops. OPERATIONS BEFORE SAVANNAH. December 12.Third Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers crossed to Ar- gyle Island. Steamer Resolute captured. December 13.The remainder of the Third Brigade, First Division, moved to Cherokee Hill to protect the rear, and formed connection on its left with portion of Fourtecimth Corps Page 216 216 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. December 11.Two regiments of Second Division pushed over on to Hutch jusons Island. December 15.Second liegiment Massachusetts X~oln iiteers re-en- forced Third Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers on Argyle Island. December 1G.Second Brigade, Third Divisioi 1, reli eve(I remainder of Second Brigade, First Divisi island. on, the latter crossing over to Argyle December 19.The regiments of the Second Brigade, First Division, crossed ovei~ to the South Carolina shore aiid iiitienched themselves between Clydesdale Creek and the house of iXli. Izard. December 21.Savannah having been evacuate(1 l)y the enemy, the Second Division took possession of the city early in the morning. The Third and First Divisions arrived (litring the day. No. 78. R~port of Brig. Gen. Nathaniel J. Jackson U~ AS. Army, commanding First Division. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH CORPS, Savannah, Ga., December 31, 18G4. COLONEL: I have the honor to 5Ul)mnit the following report of the operations of this division from the time at which I was placed iii corn- mand to the time of the occupation of Savannah: November 11, pursuant to Special Orders, No. 124, headquarters Twentieth Corps, I assumed command of the First Division, Twentieth Corps. Novemmiber 13, the Second Brigade (Col. E. A. Carman com- manding) was ordered to procee(l to a point on the Chattanooga rail. road, midway between the Chattahoochee bridge amid the city of At- lanta, and destroythe railroad track each way. Colonel Carman reported that he destroyed three miles and a half. November 115 , pursuant to orders previously received, the division, having the advance of the corps, moved out of Atlanta at 7 a. in., taking the road through Decatur and encamping at night one mile an(l a half southeast of Stone. Mountain. The Second Massachusetts Volni teers (Colonel Cogswell commanding) remained behind to destroy the 1)ubhic property in the city and accom- paimy the Fourteenth Corps until such timne as it could rejoimi its corn- muamid. Marched sixteen miles. Novemuber 16, the divisiomm. ~being ordered to mnarch imi the rear, did imot break camnp until 2 p. in. In the meantime the Third Brigade (Colonel Robinson commanding) moved to the Georgia railroad and destroyed two muiles of the track. The road was hilly and rough, and the march consequently impeded by the several trains of the corps; crossed Yellow River and encallmL)e(l at 10 p. mu. near Rock Bridge Post-Office; ummarched ten miles. November 17, muarehed at 10 a. m. imi the rear; crossed No Business, Big Ilaymmes, and Little Haymmes Creeks an(l encamlll)e(l for the night near Flat Creek, the rear of time division not getting up until after midnight; distance, thirteen miles. November 18, marched at 7 a. in., still having the rear of time corps; passed through Social Circle at noon, ~rhere we crossed to the south side of the Georgia railroad; after passimig Social Circle the roa(l was good, and at 10 p. mum. tIme whole division was in camp withimm five miles of Madison, having marched imimmeteen muiles. Novemimber 19, the divisiomi had charge of the entire wagon train of the comi)s, the other t~vo divisions having been assigmle(h to other (luty; umarched at 7 a. in., passiming through Madisomin, and emicamuped four miles south of that place; marched nine miles Page 217 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 217 November 20, broke camp at 8 a. in., the division being in the rear and guarding oiie-half of the trains of the Second Division. Consid- erable rain had fallen, which retarded the movement of the trains so that the rear did not get into camp until 11 p. in. Encamped within four miles and a half of Eatonton, having marched fourteen miles. No- vember 21, marched at 7 a. in., still in the rear, and having the same number of wagons to guard. Passed through Eatonton at 12 m. On account of continued rain the roads were extremely muddy, and it was with the greatest labor that a portion of the trains could be got along; marched twelve miles. November 22, crossed Little River at 9 a. in., the division having the advance. The head of time column arrived within one mile of Milledgeville at 2 p. in., having met with no opposition. Here the command was halted, and, pursuammt to orders from Major-Geim- eral Slocum, commanding Left Wing, Army of Georgia, the Third Wis- consin and One hundred and seventh New York Volunteers were sent for- ward to occupy, as provost guard, the city, Colonel Hawley, command- ing Third Wiscommsin Volumiteers, being appointed post commander. The remainder of the division was then marched through the city across the Oconee River, where it emicaniped, with right resting on that river; marched fourteen miles. November 23, pursuant to orders from headquarters of the corps, I ordered the First Brigade (Col- onel Seifridge commanding) to procee(l to the Gordon and Milled ge- vmlle Railroad and destroy the track. Colonel Seifridge reported that lie effectually destroyed five miles of the track. The remainder of my command remained in camp, resting after their tedious marches. November 24, Imlox-e(1 a~t 7 a. in., having the advance; roads good; encamped at 4 p. in., having marched fifteen miles. November 25; iuoved at 6 a. mu., having again time lead. Reached l3ufiklo Swamp at 8 a. in. Found that the bridges (mime in number) had been destroyed by enemys cavalry, which delayed the column until 2 p. in. Encamped at 4 ~. in. Cavalry skirmishing in front; distance, nine miles. Novem- ber 26, marched at 6 a. in., the division still hiavimig the advamice. Emi- tered Sammdersville at 11 a. in., having driven omit the emiemimys cavalry with my skirmish line. Leaving the wagon trains to be guarded by the Third Division, my command marched to the Georgia Central Railroad at Temmmiille Station and destroyed six miles of track, the railroad depot, Governmnemit warehouses, and 842 bales of cotton; marched nine miles. November 27, marched to Davisboronghm, sixteen miles. No- vember 28 amid 29, destroyed the Georgia Central Railroad from Davis. borough to Bostwick Stat.iomm, a distance of twenty miles, together with the depots amid Govermmmnezit buildings along that portiomi of the road; also two saw mills amid lumber yards amid four large bridges, framed and ready for use, estimated to contain 1,500,000 feet of Imimmiber. No- vember 30, crossed the Ogeechee River amid joimmed the traimis mmea.i Louis. ville, having marched elevemi miles. December 11, moved at 11.30 a. in., being the center division iii col- ummi; portion of the road very bad. The First Brigade (Colonel Self- ridge commanding) was, by order of Brigadier-Gemmeral Williams, com- mamidiug corps. directed to report to General Ward to assist in guard- ing time trains of the cavalry. Eticamped at 11 p. in.; marched ten miles. December 2, marched through Birdville to Buck Head Church, thirteen miles; the First Brigade reported back to the command. December 3, crossed the Waynesborough railroad three miles north of Millen. The enemimy havimig (lestroye(l the bridges, the colummi was somewhat delayed. Encamped on Horse Creek at 4 ~. mu., haviimg marched fifteen miles and a half, the division being in advance. l)ecember 4, divisio Page 218 218 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA [CHAP. LVI. again in advance; crossed several streams; couiitry low; marched fourteen miles. December 5, marched at 3 p. in., having waited in camp for the other divisions to pass; the road was extremely bad and but three miles was made at 11 p. in., at whicli time the division went into camp. December 6, marched at 7 a. in., still in the rear; roads very hard; marched fourteen miles. December 7, moved at 7 a. in., still in rear, and encamped at 10 p. m. near Springfield; country low and swampy, and roads bad; marched fifteen miles. December 8, leaving the wagon trains in charge of Third Division my command moved through Springfield in rear of Second Division; marched sixteen miles. December 9, my command moved in advance, coming into the maiu Savannah road shortly after leaving camp. On arriving at Monteith Swamp, about noon, the road was found very much obstructed by felled trees. Beyond the portion of the road obstructed the enemy had thrown up two redoubts, and in the more advanced one had posted a piece of artillery, which commanded the road and prevented the removal of the obstructions. Having ordered Colonel Selfridge (commanding First Brigade) to occupy the attention of the enemy in front, I sent the Second Brigade (Colonel Carman coummanding) to the right of the road, with instructions to advance well around the enemys left and endeavor to get in his rear. At the same time I ordered Colonel Robinson (com- manding Third Brigade) to send three regiments to the left of the road to come up on the right flank of the enemy. Owing to the nature of the ground (a rice swamp), Carmans brigade was unable to reach the desired position before the regiments of the Third Brigade had debouched from the woods on the right of the enemys works. The enemy fled, after firing one volley, leaving their knapsacks and camp equipage, but succeeded in removing the piece of artillery. Four pris. oners were captured. My loss was one man killed and seven wounded. The distance marched was mime umiles. December 10, struck the Charleston and Savannah Railroad at Mon- teith Station, ten miles from Savannah. After destroying three miles of the track, my command advanced toward Savannah, following the Third Division. When within five miles of the city, the enemy having been found in an intrenched position, by direction of the brigadier-general commanding the corps I placed my command in position, with right resting on Savammnah road. I then ordered Colonel Selfridge, whose brigade was on the left, to send a regiment with instructions to go if possible to the river. Afterward, it having been reported that this reg- iment was meeting with resistance, I ordered Seifridge to re-emiforce it with another regiment. Owing, however, to the lateness of the hour at which the expedition started it did not succeed in reaching the river. On the 11th I ordered a reconnaissance to be muade in fromit of my line, consisting of two regiments of Carmans brigade, ummder comumand of Colonel Cogswell, Second Massachusetts Volunteers, which developed tIme enemys position, and the nature of the intervening ground. On the same day, by direction of the brigadier-general commanding the corps, I directed Colonel Carman to send one regiment to Argyle Island to secure the stores and hold the rice mills upon the island. Pursuant to orders from headquarters of the corps, I also directed Colonel Robin- son, commanding Third Brigade, to semid three regiments to the rear to protect the trains, and on the 13th Colonel Robinson was directed to take the remainder of his brigade to time same l)osition. On the 15th time Second Massachusetts Vol ni tccrs, Col oitel Cogswell commanding, was ordered to report with his regiment to Colonel Hawley on Argyle Island, and on the next day, l)Iimsnalit to orders from lmeadquarters o Page 219 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 219 the corps, I directed Colonel Carman to move the remaining regiments of his brigade to Argyle Island and from thence to the South Carolina shore. Owing to the want of boats the passage to the South Carolina shore was made with great difficulty, and it was not until the 19th instant that the whole brigade had effected a landing on the Carolina shore, where it took up a position threatening the Charleston and Savan- nah road. Understanding that the object of this rnoveineiit was merely to threaten the enemys only line of communications, and thereby cause him to withdraw his troops from his main line in front of Savannah, I directed Colonel Carman to present a bold front and sent out frequent reconnais~ances. On the morning of the 21st, the enemy having evac- uated the city of Savannah during the afternoon and night previous, I received orders from the brigadier-general coinmandin o- the corps to move the First and Second Brigades to a position nearer the city. The First Brigade was moved at once to the position assigned to it, but owing to the high winds which prevailed during this and the following day, and the activity of the enemy, quite a force of which still remained in his front, Colonel Carinan was unable to cross his entire brigade to the Georgia shore until the afternoon of the 22d. During the crossing, Co]. John II. Ketcliam, commanding One hundred and fiftieth New York Volun- teei-s, a brave and efficient officer, was wounded severely in the thigh. in the evening of the 22d the Second Brigade was brought to its pres- ent camp, and on the following morning the Third Brigade, which had remained in its old position until the trains could be moved to the vicin- ity of the city, was also brought up and encamped, with right resting on Savannah River. During the march, which from time of leaving Atlanta to the arrival before Savannah occupied twenty-six days, the troops of my command subsisted mostly upon provisions taken from the country through which we passed, and were abundantly supplied. After arriving in front of Savannah a large supply of rice was found on the plantations in the vicinity, upon which, with the beef-cattle on hand, the command subsisted until supplies were obtained from the fleet. The following supplies were taken from the country by the foraging parties which were sent out daily: Beef-cattle 560 Meal and flour pounds. - 1,500 Sheep 300 Bacon do - - - - 1, 000 Hogs 500 Fresh meat do---- 95, 000 Corn pounds~ 298,472 Sugar do~. 1,000 Fodder do 399, 051 Tobacco do - - - - 1, 500 Rice (in sheaf) do. - - 20,000 Molasses barrels. - 26 Rice (threshed) do. - - 38, 800 Whisky do. - - - 3 Sweet potatoes do - - - 164, 200 Salt do - - - - 6 In addition to the foregoing, on the 10th of December a foraging party of Carmans brigade commanded by Captain Gildersleeve, One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers, captured the dispatch steamer- Ida from the enemy, taking thirteen prisoners, among whom was Colonel Clinch, of General Hardees staff. On account of the ap- l)roach of rebel gun-boats, Captain Gildersheeve burned the steamer after removing the pi-isoners. On the 12th Colonel Hawley, com- manding Third Wisconsin, on Argyle Island, took possession of the steamer Resolute, which had been driven on the Argyle shore by Cap- tain Winegars battery. The boat and stores captured upon her, as well as prisoners, were turned over by Colonel Hawley directly to corps headquarters. One hundi-ed and fifty horses and 175 mules were Captured during the inaich. Of these 130 horses were turned over to the provost Page 220 220 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND ELA. [c~iP. LVI. marshal of the corps, and the remainder of the horses and the mules were put into the dift~rent trains of the division. Twenty-two cotton gins and 1,028 bales of cotton were destroyed by my command; 1,800 bales of cotton were also turned over by Colonel Hawley, Third Wis- consin Volunteers, wi iile commanding post of Milledgeville, by order of Major-General Sherman. My command also destroyed 36 miles of railroad. About 900 negroes joined and follow-ed the column to our position in front of Savannah, where all except those who had been takeu for teamsters and officers servants were turned over to the provost-marshal of the corps. My aggregate effective force ou leaving Atlanta was 5,363, and on arriving at Savannah the report of effective force showed an aggregate of 5,174, making a loss of 189. Of this number 157 were killed, wounded, or missing, and are accounted for by name iii the report of casualties appended to this report. The remaining miumber, 32, were taken from the effective force by sickness. The organization of my command is as follows: First Brigade, Colonel Selfridge, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, comnmanding, composed of the following regiments, One hundred and twenty-third New York Volunteers, Fifth Connecticut Veteran Volunteers, Forty- sixth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, and One hundred and forty- first New York Volunteers. Second Brigade, Col. E. A. Carman, Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers, commanding, composed of the Third Wisconsin Veteran Volunteers, Second Massachusetts Volun- teers, One hundred and seventh New York Volunteers, Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers, and One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers. Third Brigade, Col. J. S. Robinson, Eighty-second Ohio Volunteers, commanding, composed of the Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers, Eighty-second Ohio Volunteers, Eighty-second Illinois Volunteers, One hundred and first Illinois Volunteers, On e hundred and forty-third New York Volunteers, and Sixty-first Ohio Volunteers. My staff was composed of the following-named officers: 1. Maj. James Francis, Second Massachusetts Volunteers, actii~g assistant inspector-general. 2. Surg. H. Z. Gill, surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, surgeon-imi-chief. 3. Capt. George B. Cadwalader, assistant quartermaster. 4. Capt. John C. Livezey, commissary of subsistence. 5. Capt. E. A. Wickes, One hundred and fiftieth New York VQlnn- teers, assistant commissary of musters. 6. Capt. S. A. Bennett, One hundred and seventh New York Volun- teers, acting topographical engineer. 7. Capt. M. P. Whitney, Fifth Connecticut \Tolunteers, l)iovost- marshal. 8. Capt. William J. Augustine, Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Volun- teers, ordnance officer. 9. First Lient. George Robinson, aide-de-camp to Brigadier-General Williams, acting assistant adjutan I4eneral. 10. First Lient. E. B. Benedict, Irty-sixth New York Volunteers, aide-de-camp. Accompanying this report I f~ward reports of brigade and regi- mental commanders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. J. JACKSON, Br igwi icr- (3cn era 1 Lient. Col. H. W. PERKINS, Commanding. Assistant A dju Ut itt- (kit CF(1 1, TiteR beth Corps Page 221 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 221 No. 79. Report (~f Surg. Henry Z. Gill, U. S. Army, Surgeon-in-Chief. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CoRPS, SURGEONS OFFICE, Saranwk, Ga., December 31, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of First I)ivision, Twentieth Army Corps, during the campaign and siege of Savannah, commencing at Atlanta, Ga., November 15, and closing with the capture of the city of Savannah, Ga., December 21, 1864, embrac- ing a l)eriod of thirty-seven days: The Twentieth Corps formed the right of the Left Wing of the Army of Georgia. The division was commanded by Brig. Gen. N. J. Jackson, and was ~omposed of three brigades, commanded respectively by First Brigade (four regiments), C.l. J. L. Seifridge, Forty-sixth Penn- sylvania Veteran Volunteers; Second Brigade (five regiments), Col. E. A. Carman, Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers; Third Brigade (six regiments), Col. J. S. Robinson, Eighty-second Ohio Volunteers, giving a total present strength of 5,829. (See Appendix, Table J.*) The men were generally in good condition, having had for some weeks the advantage of foraging expeditions, amid were well clothed before leav- Pig Atlanta, having received issues of new clothing. There were in the command about 300 recruits. The transportation of the division comprised 177 six-mnule army wagons, thirty-eight of which carried ainmmmumiitioii. The transportation of the division hospital consisted of three army wagons amid one mimedicine wagon, carrying sixteen tent-flies and the usual monthly allowance of the niost useful medical supplies. The tm-ammsportatidu for the sick ami(l woum~ded consisted of thirty two- mule ambulances, undem the supervisiomi of a captaimi ammd one liciltenant fromn each brigade, to wlm ich were added, near the close of the march, three arnm y wagons for carcying- knapsacks and equipments of muen in regimnentssuch cases as were not I)~OPC~ for hospital and who would return to the regiments at night. The supplies comisisted of twelve days rations of hard bread, fifteen days rations of coffee, fifteemin days rations of sugar, sixty days ratiomis of salt, ammd one days ration of salt mneat. The ambulances carried 200 i)ouu(hs of hard bread for the hospital, which was much mIee(led after the commissarys supply was exhausted amid before the communication was opened with time fleet; also, a quantity of beef essence. The sick an(1 wounded of the com- mand had beemi mnaimmly sent to the rear before we left Atlanta, the credit for which is partly due to the fore~i-lmt Kittoe, medical inspector, U. S. Army. amid einineingy of Surgeon The hospital report of Novemn- ber 15 showed but one remaining. There were at the same date fifty- one in the regimnents excused from duty. (See Table i.*) 0mm the march nmeu were admitted to ambulance or lmospital wit ii passes signed by the regimental muedical officers. (See Forum, Tab he JlJa.*) Oiie medical officer of the hospital corps and omme steward acconml)anicd the ambu- lance train each day to regulate admissions and attend to time wants of the sick. The number of sick and wounded admitted to hospital during the campaign was: (see Table INN; also list of casualties). At the close of the siege tIme number in hIosl)itah was only I per cemmt. of the command. The regimnents were supplied in most cases with a pack- munle and a pannier set to each, an(L mmo regimemmt in time comniamid was Omitted. Shows 668 sick and 72 wounded; total, 740 Page 222 222 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. without a medical officer. The Ninth Illinois Monnte(l Infantry was attached to the corps until we reached the defenses of the city. The wounded of the regiment were admitted to hospital of the First Divis- ion. (See Table JJ*\ GENERAL REMARKS. The weather was unusually flue during the campaign, there being but three rainy days, though there were also a few light showers. The roads were good most of the time, with the exception of the few days men- tioned above, and in the latter part of the route where the road led throngh swampy country some difficulty was experienced on that account. Had the weather been rainy it would have necessitated the abandoning of a portion, at least, of our train. The fact of but one corps moving on one road was of the greatest advantage, which w~ demoim- strated iii the moving of the rear divi~ion, whichever that happened to be. Sometimes it would be till midnight, sometimes till nearly morn- ing, getting into camp. At one time time First l)ivisiomi was in the rear, and it required fivelmours hard work to make a (listance of two miles. The supplies were taken mainly from the country t hrough which we passed, and though comparatively thinly settled, it usually furiti shied an abundance of beef-cattle, hogs, sheep, poultry of all kinds, sweet potatoes in abundance for the mimen, and plenty of forage for the. horses and mules. The water was, generally speaking, very good and suffi- cient for this season of the year. The animals were in very bad condi- tion at the time of leaving Atlanta, on account of the destruction of the railroad between that point and Chattanooga, by General Hood, in October. A portion of the time there had been no forage issued; at other times only half rations of grain, with no hay at all. We started with four days forage of grain only. Had we not been able to cal)tuLe a large number of mules and horses during the first week it would have beemi impossible to have brought the train with us. Many of the mules we started with died or were killed and their iUaces filled with fine stock from the farms on time route. At the end of the campaign the teams were in splendid condition, much of the stock, especiahhy the mules, being first class. The command marched about 350 miles and passe(l through the follow- ing towns: Decatur, November 15; Social Circle, November 18; Madi- son, November 19; Eatonton, Novemmmber 21; Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, November 22; Sand ersville and Tennille Statiomi, Novem- ber 26; Davisborough, November 27; Spiers Turnout, November 28; Springfield, December 7. The battle of Monteith Swami) occllrre(l on I)ecember 9, at wlmich the division captured two torts, with a loss of 1 killed and 5 wounded. We reaclmed the main works tbr time defense of the city of Savannah on the 10th of December and comumenced the siege. On the same day the divisiomm captured omie steam-boat in the Sa- vannah River, Ida, and on time 12th ammothmer, Resolute. Omme brigade crossed the river ammd iutrenched on the South Carolina side December 19. The city was evacuated by the emmemny on the night of the 20th, and was formally surrendered by time civil authorities at 3 a. m. Decemn- ber 21, 1864, to Brig. Gen. J. W. Geary, Second l)ivisiQmm, Twentieth Army Corps. On the route we had two skirmishesone at Samiders- yule November 26; the other at Monteith Swamp December 9. The campaign is said to be time most extensive, the most rapid, amid the most successful of the xvar, with the least loss to us, while it accomplished Shows 6 wounded and 15 sick Page 223 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 223 the destruction of most of the railroad from Atlanta on the west to the Savannah River on the east, the destruction of vast quantities of cot- ton, the capture of a large amount of valaable stock, and finally of the city of Savannah and surrounding forts. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. Z. GILL, Surgeon, U. S. Volunteers, Cli hf First Div., 20th Army Corps. Brig. Gen. J. K. BARNES, Surgeon- General, U. AS. Army. ~O. SO. Report of Col. James L. SelJri(lge, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Infantry, corn maii (hug First Brigade. IIDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST Div., 20Th ARMY CORPS, Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. LIEUTENANT: * On the morning of November 15 we started from Atlanta en route for Savannah. My brigade was the leading 01 te of the corps an(l moved from Decatur at 7 a. in., passed through that town, and after traveling about fourteen miles in an easterly direction, encamped for the night near Stoiie Mountain. November 16, moved from camp this afternoon at ip. m. and after a march ofaboutten miles encamped for the night near Rock Bridge. November 17, i noved from near Rock Bridge at 9 a. in., traveled about fifteen miles toward Social Circle, and encamped at 12 nmidnight. No- vember 18, started from encampment at 10 a. in., reached Social Circle at 2 p. in., where my brigade halted for dinner. The brigade was iu the extreme rear of the corps, acting as ream- guard. Marched about nine- teen miles, and encamped near Rutledge at 10 p. in. November 19, started from near Rutledge at 9 a. in., ])assed through Madison at 11 a. in., and encamped at 5 p. in. a few miles south of that place on the Milledgeville road, after marching about eight miles. November 20, moved toward Eatonton this inorimiiig at 9 a. in. and encamped about five miles from Eatonton, aftem- marching ten miles. This days march was a very severe one, owing to the muddy nature of the roads; more or less rain during the entire day and evening. November 21, moved from our encampment at 9 a. in. mul passed through Eatonton about noon; roads in very bad condition. Tm-aveled twelve miles and encainl)ed, at 12 midnight, fourteen miles from Milledgeville. Novemn- ber 22, my brigade entered Milledgeville at 4 p. in. without opposition, crossed the Ocommee River, and encamped close to the city at 5p. in. No- vember 23, pursuant to orders from divisiomi headquarters this brigade marched through the city of Milledgeville at 1 p. in. to the Milledge- yule and Gordon Railroad, five miles of which we completely destroyed by burning and bending the rails; returned to camp about 9 p. in. No- vember 24, resumed our march this morning at 7 oclock, and after traveling about fourteen miles went into camp near Hebron at 4 p. in.; roads very much improved; weather cold and clear. November 25, started this morning l)romptly at 6 oclock; reached Buffalo Swamp at 8 a. in.; found that the bridges, nine i~m number, had been destroyed * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 653 Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. by the enemys cavalry; were detained here until 2 p. in., by which time the bridges were rebuilt, and we passed quietly over the swamp, and after marching about five miles encamped at 5 p. in. November 26, entered Sandersville this morning at 11 oclock. Moved to Tennille Sta- tion at 2 p. in., and destroyed about two miles of railroad, together with large Government warehouses, the railroad depot, and sixty-two bales of cotton. November 27, marched toward Davisborough at 6 a. m. and reached that place at 4 p. in., where we encamped, after marching about twelve miles. November 28, brigade moved to the Georgia Central Railroad and assisted in destroying the track, & c., from Davisborough to Spiers Station, a distance of twelve miles. Arrived at Spiers and encamped at 7 p. m. November 29, continued destroying the railroad at 7 a. m. and reached Bostwick Station about 6 p. in., after having destroyed eight miles of road. November $30, star ted this morning toward Louisville at 9 oclock, and after marching ten miles encamped within two miles of Louisville. December 1, pursuant to orders from division headquarters I reported with my brigade to Brigadier-General Ward, commanding Third Divis- ion, Twentieth Corps, who placed my brigade as guard alongside his wagon train, which was in rear of the corps; after traveling about five miles we encamped with the Third Division. December 2, started at daylight in the same order as yesterday; marched about twelve miles and got into camp at 6 p. in.; received orders from General Jack- son to join the First Division at 6 oclock the following morning. De- cember 3, brigade started at 5.30 a. mu. and joined the First Division, which was two miles in advance, at 6 a. in.; traveled about fourteen miles and encamped near Horse Creek at 4 p. in. Decemuber 4, started this morning at 6 oclock, and after marching through a desolate, piney coun- try for fifteen miles, encamped near Little Ogeechee River at 4 p. in. December 5, did not move till 4 p. in.; very bad roads; marched four miles and encamped about midnight. December 6, started at 6 a. in.; marched about ten miles, and encamped near Smokes house 6 p. in. December 7, resumed our march at 10 a. in., having tIme rear of the corps; passed through one comitinuous swamp twelve miles in length, and reached camp near Springfield on the followimig morning at 2 oclock; the most tedious and unpleasant march during the campaign; rained during the entire day. December 8, resumn ed our march at 7 a. in., and after marching twelve miles through a fiat, swampy country, encamped at dark about twenty miles northwest of Savannah. December 9, brigade moved at 7 a. in. iii advance of the corps; after traveling about seven miles we caine to a portion of the road which had been most effectually obstructed by slashed timber which extended about 200 yards, at tIme end of which was an opemi field, and imi the field, completely command- ing the road, were two forts occnl)ie(l by the enenmy, and from which position they 1)reveflted our pioneers from clearing the road of the ob- structions referred to. In accordance with orders from division head- quarters I sent forward the Fifth Regiment Connecticut Veteran Volun- teers, Lient. Col. H. W. Daboll commanding, as skirmishers, and shortly afterward sent the Forty- sixth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, One hundred and twenty-third New York Volunteers, and One hundred and forty-first New York Volummteers, all that remained of my brigade, to sul)port the Fifth Connecticut Veteran Volunteers. In a short time they opened fire, and imi conjunction with the Second and Third Bri- gades, which had beensent around on their flanks, drove the enemy i Page 225 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 225 great confusion from both forts and captured two prisoners. Lieutenant- Colonel Daboll, commanding the Fifth Connecticut Veteran Volunteers, is entitled to much credit for the gallant manner iii which he charged and drove the enemy from their works, as he was directly iilder fire of their guns and exposed to much danger. TIe is a brave officer and worthy of promotion. I moved on beyond the forts in line of battle for a distance of about one mile and a half, whcn I was ordered to return, and encamped for the night. In this little affidr I only lost 3 meu in my brigade, all from the Forty-sixth IRegiment Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteersi man wounded in the leg (afterward amputated), 1 man wounded severely in the head, and 1 other slightly in the shoulder. There was supposed to be about 1,000 of the enemy in the forts, with two pieces of artillery. December 10, traveled about nine miles, and encamped four miles from Savannah. Five of the enemys soldiers surrendered near General Harrisons plantation to Capt. A. W. Selfridge, acting commissary of subsistence of this brigade, while the latter was foraging in advance of my troops. The Fifth Connecticut Veteran Volunteers, of my command, eaptnre(l a wagon loaded with ammunition. The road at the point where we encamped for the night was obstructed by slashed timber, and just beyond the slashing time enemy were strongly fortified. Pursuant to orders from Brig. Gen. N. J. Jackson, I sent the Forty-sixth liegimeut Pennsylvania Veteran Volumiteers about half a mile to the left on a road running parallel with the enemys works and about 400 from them. In endeavoring to reach the river this reginient met the enemys skirmishers, and after a brisk fire of fifteen or twenty minutes were obliged to fall back about 200 yards. While here seven deserters from the enemy gave themselves up and were forwarded to division head- quarters. 0mm the following day I remuoved the remainder of my brigade to the road upon which the Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Veteran Volumi- teers were stationed, my left connecting with General Gearys limme amid my right connecting with the left of the Third Brigade of this division. here I remnaimied until time morning of time 21st instant, wheim it was dis- covered that the enemny had evacuated his works. Imi accordance with orders from divisioli headquarters I moved my brigade at 6 a. m. and occupied the rebel works. Shortly afterward I moved may troops to within one mile of the city of Savannah, where they are encamped. During the time we were encamped in front of Savannah my troops were within close range of the enemys guns, amid although they kept up a vigorous fire upon our lines, strange to say, only oime man of my command was struck by their missiles. He was a nmemnber of the Forty- sixth Pennsylvania Veterami Volunteers, and was slightly wounded by a piece of shell. During the whole campaigim the foraging was all that could be desired. The troops of my command subsisted primmeipally fromn the captures of regimemital foraging parties, which were semit out daily by each regi- mental conimander. Besides this, my acting commissary of subsistence obtained the following supplies and issued them to this comnmuamid during the march: 12 wagon-loads sweet potatoes, averaging 1,600 pounds per load; 100 head of beef-cattle, averaging 2,000 pounds each; 100 sheep; 30 hogs; 2 half barrels of sorghumn molasses. The brigade captured about 40 horses and mules, destroyed 5 cotton gins and 73 bales of cotton, picked up about 100 negroes, and destroyed 20 miles of raji- road. During the march the quartermaster of this brigade obtained frQm~ 15 H U VOL XLI Page 226 226 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYl. the country 36,094 pounds of corn and 75,231 pounds of fodder. Our stock was in much better condition wheu we entered Savannah than it was at the commencement of the campaign. The health of the command was never better, and both officers and men were in excellent spirits and seemed to have the most perfect con- fidence in the success of our enterprise. When I left Atlanta, on the 15th of November, the effective force of this brigade was 63 commis- sioned officers and 1,448 enlisted men. At the close of the campaign I had 64 officers and 1,380 eulisted men, making an increase of 1 officer and a decrease of 68 enlisted men. Twenty-three of the above are sup- posed to have been captured by the enemy and 4 of them were wounded. The remainder (41) were taken from the effective force of the command on account of sickness. In closing my report, duty requires that I should make a few com- ments upon the conduct of line and non-commissioned officers, many of whom seem to forget the responsibility of their positions and did but little toward preserving that discipline for which this command has ever been renowned. Regimental commanders exerted themselves to have their men together and endeavored to prevent straggling, but, owing to the ilidifterence of line atid non-commissioned oflicers, were unable to prevent their men from taking liberties which could and might have been remedied by their subordinates. To my regimental commanders I wish to tender my warmest thanks for the cheerful manner in which they discharged each and every duty iml)osed upon them. Capt. William Merrell, commanding One hundred and forty-first New York Volunteers, is entitled to especial praise for the zealous manner in which he performed the duties which devolved upon him as a regimental commander, having but a short time been in command and with but very few company officers to assist him. To Capt. D. XV. Palmer, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. William C. Rockwell, acting assistant inspector-general; Capt. A. W. Seifridge, acting commissary of subsistence; First Lient. (ieorge Tubbs, topo. graphical engineer; First Lieut. R. Cruikshank, provost-marshal; First Lient. A. L. Crawford, actii~g assistant quartermaster; and Lieut. W. F. Martin, aide- dc-camp, members of my staff, I wish to offer my grateful appreciation of their efforts at all times to assist me in perform- ing the several duties devolving upon them in a cheerful and soldier- like manner. Just previous to leaving Atlanta my aide-de-camp, Lieutenant Mar- tin, received a leave of absence for twenty days, and although with- out proper equipments for a campaign (having just nqmde his escape from Charleston prison), when he learned that we were likely to start southward before the expiration of his leave of absence, refused to avail himself of the same, and has been ever at his post, ready and willing to perform whatever service I required of him. Accompanying this report you will please find reports of my regi- mental commanders. All of which is most respectfully submitted. I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. L. SELFRIDG-E, Colonel Forty-sixth Pennsylrania Vet. Vols., Comdg. First Brig. Lient. GEORGE RoBINsoN, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Division, Twentieth Army Corps Page 227 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 227 No. 81. Report of Lient. Col. Henry W. Daboll, Fifth Connecticut Infantry, of operations October 21 December 23. HDQRS. FIFTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT YET. VOLS., Near Savannah, Ga .,Dcccmbcr 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of move- ments of this regiment since the occupation of Atlaiita, Ga., Septem- ber 2, 1864: October 21, we received orders to march as a 1)ortion of guard to a wagon train of some 800 teams; we moved in the direction of Flat Shoals, eighteen miles; assisted in loadiiig the train with corn, and returned to Atlanta on the 24th. October 29, moved with the First Brigade to Decatur, and formed portion of rear guard to a forage train coming in same day. November 5, moved out of the city three miles; encamped for the night aiid returned to the city next day. November 15, regiment marched, as advance guard of Twentieth Army Corps, in direction of Stone Mountain. We continued our march with the main column each day, nothing worthy of note occurring until November 20, when a small party of rebel cavalry iii ade a dash on our rear, captur- big some eight stragglers, three of them being members of this regiment. November 22, leached Milledgeville, the capital of the State. Novern- her 23, at work all day destroying the Gordon and Milledgeville Rail- road, the regiment tearing up about two miles and a half of track. Moved with the main column until the 26th, when we were again at work on the railroad, tearing up about a mile of track and destroying four large warehouses at Tennille Statioii, on the M aeon road. November28, again at work destroying railroad. November 29, at work on the rail- road all day, reaching a point inmear the Ogeechee River; we left the ramiroad here, and rejoined the main column. Nothing of importance occurred until 1)eceinber 9; the regiment, having the advance of the corps, came upon a small body of rebel infantry with one piece of artillery intrenched on the road micar Mon- teithi. Time regiment was quickly deployed, and a(lvancing through a deep marsh soon developed the force of the enemy. The First Division, Twentieth Corps, making a concentrated movement on them, they retreated at double-quick. Some portion of this regiment, being the first to enter the rebel fort, captured two prisoners. Our casualties were none. December 10, the regiment moved at an early hour, with four wagomis belonging to First Brigade commissary department, to General Harrisons plantation; loaded the wagons with sweet l)Otatocs and mneat, and obtained some three days rations besides. Lieutenant Kellum, pro- ceeding down a by-road with two companies, caine upon two wagons loaded with ammunition amind supplies which had been abandoned by the rebels; they were brought in, aimd accounted for. Same day we moved withmin three muiles and a half of Savannah. Brigade formed line of battle on the left of railroad, the regiment in reserve in close coluninn by division. The evening of l)ecemminber 15 the regimemit was ordered to accompany a train of 165 wagons to Kings Bridge, for the purpose of getting a mail and bringing up supplies; remained at Kings Bridge until the 22d; returned with the train to Savannah. December 23, took position on left of the brigade, where the regiment remains at present. During our march from Atlanta the regiment has mainly subsisted on the country. At no time have the muen beemi without meat or pot Page 228 228 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVL toesarticles not furnished by the subsistence department. The ani- mals picked up have all been accounted for by the (luartermaster of the regiment. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY W. I)ABOLL, Lientena ut- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. No. 82. Report of Licat. Col. James C. Rogers, One hnitdre(i and twenty-third New York Itfantry, of operations October 21December 21. HEADQUARTERS 123D NEXV YORK VOLUNTEERS, Sarannah, Ga., December 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the tollOwin(~ report of the operations of this regiment from the occupation of Atlanta l)y the U. S. forces to the present time: Shortly after the ocenpation of Atlanta by onr forces, the Twentieth Army Corps having been assigned to the duty of garrisoning the city, this regiment went into camp on the northeast of the towim. The troops built themselves comfortable aiid commodious quarters, an(1 strin gent measures were adopted for preserving the health of the men, somewhat impaired by the protracted campaign and defective diet. With the exceptions hereafter noted, the regiment remained here in camp until the 15th of November following, engaged in the customary duties of the garrison, viz, drills, picket guards, and fatigue upon the fortifications. On the 21st day of October this regiment, in connection with other forces and a large number of wagons, the whole under the command of Colonel l)ustin, went upon a toraging expedition iiito the Snap- finger Creek and South River Valleys. A large amount of corn and fodder was gathered here, but I have ito definite knowledge or official information of the amount. The expedition returned, without being molested, on the 24th of October. On the 29th of October this regi- ment, with the other regiments of the brigade, went to Decatur in aid of a foraging party under command of Brigadier-General (i-eary, and returned the same day without having seen the enemy. On the 5th day of November this regiment, in connection with the other regi- ments of the Twentieth Army Corps, broke camup and moved out upon the MeDonough road, and encamped for the night. It rcturned the next day and reoccupied its old camp. These movements coml)rise all the field operations of this regiment during its stay in Atlanta. During this time attention was paid to perfecting discipline, which was somewhat relaxed by a long and arduous campaign. The men were Tully clothed and equipped, convalescents called in from hospitals, the returns of comnpany officers completed amid sent in, and every effort niade to brimig the commuand to a conditiomi for active service. The regiment here received eight of their temi months pay then due. Forty-three recruits were received here, but so shortly before moving from the city that but little instruction imi drill could be imparted. They are, however, a good class of muemi, and have, in the main, proved themselves good soldiers. rfhe elective franchise, con- ferred by an act of the New York Legislature at its last session, was here exercised, and it is believed with less of partisan heat and undue imifin- ence than ordinarily occurs at Clections held iu coim~munitie~ free from military authority Page 229 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNIiH CAMPAIGN. 229 Every preparation having been made in obedience to orders which had been previously received, on the 15th of November the regiment, together with the other troops composing the Twentieth Army Corps, moved out of the city on the Decatur road, taking the route, via Stone Mountain, Rock Bridge, and Social Circle, to Madison, which we entered on the 19th of November. Thence taking the Milledgeville road, we passed throngh Eatonton, and on the 22d of November passed through Milledgevine, crossed the Oconee, and encamped on the east bank. On the 23d the regiment destroyed one mile of the railroad leading to the Georgia Central. On the 24th of November we moved from Milledge- ville, via ilebron, Sandersville, to Teniiille. where we encamped the night of 26th of November. Near Sandersville there was some skirmishing, and the regiment was moved forward on the double-quick with aid of Colonel Robinsons brigade, but the eiiemy fled, and the regiment was not engaged. Oh the 27th of November we moved to l)avisborough. The 28th and 29th of November. in connection with other troops, we destroyed all the Georgia railroad from Davisboronglmto I3ostwick, with trifling exceptions. This regiment effectually destroyed three miles of road, teariiig up and burning the ties and twisting the rails. Novem- ber the 30th the Ogeechee was crossed without opposition, and we encanml)ed for the night about four miles south of Louisville. Pushing southeasterly we passed through Springfield on the 8th of December. The march was much impeded near this place by the marshy nature of the ground, rendering it very difficult to move the trains of wagons and artillery. On the 9th day of December the First Brigade, First Division, being in advance, at a point near Harrisons plantation, about four miles from the Savannah and Charleston Railroad and fourteen miles from Sa~ an- nah, where the road passed through a difficult marsh, the road was found blockaded by felled trees and a redoubt with a piece of artillery planted to command the defile. The regiment, with the rest of the bri- ga(le, forced its way through a dense jangle and niarshy ground to the left of the road, and as soon as it could be formed on solid ground the brigade advanced in line upon tIme enemys works. Alarmed by our near approach, or that of the co-operating forces, the enemy fled and we encamped for the night. 0mm the 10th of December we moved upon Savannah, and meeting the enemy, we went into position about four miles and a half from the city, between the Savannah and Augusta pike and the river, having a flooded rice swamp and canal in our front, with a narrow belt of tium her intervening. With exception of slight alteration in l)osmtmon, we remained here until the 21st of December, subjected at all hours of the day amid night to a heavy fire from the enemys 1)atteries, but, tlmanks to fortune or their unskillful artillerists, nearly every shell flew hiarimilessly over our heads. As the day dawned on time 21st, it was (liscovered that the enemy had evacuated time works in our front.. Time regimnemint was at once J)laced under arms and soon after crossed the swamp and entered time enenmys works, and later in the day wemmt imito time camup assigned it omi the banks of the Savannah River ,just outside the city, where it is now resting front its labors. Durimig this movemnemit the subsistence stores imave been gathered almost exclusively from the coumitry. Sweet potatoes Imave supplied the place of bread, amid beef and pork gathered in the country have sup- Imlied the usual army rations of meat. Besides what was consumed at the time, twenty-odd beef cattle were turned over by the regiment to the commissary of subsistence of the brigade, and a number of fine mnules and horses to the brigade quartermaster. During time ten days before the city, rice was issued instead of bread and potatoes. Te Page 230 230 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA [CHAP. LVI. days rations of hard bread and three and~ a half (lays of salt meat were the only issues of those rations brought from Atlanta up to the time of entering Savannah. Fourteen officers and seventy-three men having been detached for various duties in the corps, the regiment left Atlanta on the 15th of November with 18 officers and 447 men, and entered Savannah on the 21st of December with 18 officers and 446 men, the only loss during the campaign being 1 man (Edward Phair), a l)rivate of Company B, who, straggling from the regiment near Madison, was probably captured by the enemys cavalry. The health and physical vigor of the command have not only been preserved but greatly improved during the campaign, and the troops are now, with the exception of clothing, of which they are in great need, better fitted for active service than when they left Atlanta. While the highest state of discipline could not be preserved from the peculiar character of the movement, I take pleasure in saying that under circumstances of extraordinary temptation this command has, in a great measure, been preserved from the vices of straggling and maraud- ing. Both officers an(l men have always exhibited a cheerful willing- ness to perform every (luty imposed on them, and a large share of that unquestioning confidence in the leader of this army which is so impor- tant an element in the success of military movements. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. C. ROGERS, Lieu ten ant- Colonel, Comman cling. Capt. D. W. PALMER, Asst. Adjt. Gem., 1st Brig., 1st Dir., 20th Army Coqs. No. 83. Report of Capt. Williant ihlierreli, One hundred and forty-first New York hfantry. HDQRS. 141ST REGIMENT NEW VouK VOLUNTEERS, & vannali, Ga., December 2G, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the oper- ations of this command during the recent campaign: From the occupation of Atlanta, Ga., the regiment was engaged in building quarters and the usual duties of camp life until the 30th instant, when we were ordered to report to Col. N. 1\I. Crane, command- ing a provisional brigade doing guard ditty in time city; here we remained umitil the commencement of the recent campaign; on the morn- ing of November 15 we broke camp amid joined the First Brigade on the Decatur road; mna rehing fifteen miles, we halted near Stomie Moun- tain and camped for the imight. 16th, marched across Yellow River, guarding ammunition train; halted at 11.30 ~ m. for the miight. 17th, comumnenced the march at 10 a. in., guarding train; camped at 12.30 p. m. 18th, marched at 9 a. in.; halted at Social Circle at 2 p. m. for dinner; afternoon resumed the march, passing through Rutledge, and encamnped at 11 p. m. 19th, marched at 9 a. in. on traimi guard; passed through Madison at 2p.m.; taking the Milledgeville road at that place, we camnl)ed four miles from the town. 20th, mnarched at 9 a. inn., camp- ing near Eatonton for the night. 21st, marched at 9 a. in.; passed through Eatonton; camnped at 1 a. in., 22d, four mniles from that place. 22d, marched at daylight; crossed Little River; reached Milledgeville at sunset; wemtt into camp about one mile east of the town. 23d, was ordered out in light marching order at 1 p. in.; muarched to the Mi Page 231 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 231 ledgeville and Eatonton Railroad; we were engaged in destroying that road until after dark, when we returned to camp. 24th, marched at daylight from Milledgeville; camped about 4 p. m. 25th, mar~lied at 6.30 a. in.; made about eight miles. 26th, marched at 6.15 a. in.; reached Sandersyille at 10 a. in., where we halted for dinner; we then marched to Tennille Station, on the Georgia Central Railroad, and halted for the night. 27th, marched at 6 a. mu. from Tennille Station to Davisborough, fifteen miles; captured during the afternoon twelve head of cattle and two mules; went into camp for time niolit ~8t1m H marcbe(l at 7 a. in. to the railroad, (lestroying it to Spiers Station; encamped for the night at that place. 29th, moved at 6.30 a. in. on the railroad; destroyed it to Bostwick Station, a distance of eight miles, and camped for the night. 30th, marched at 9.30 a. in.; crossed the Ogeechee River two miles from Louisville and camped for the night. Nothing of importance occurred until the 9th of IJecemnber, wheu the road was found to be obstructed by fallen timber, rendering it impossi- ble to advance. The pioneers were ordered forward, but as soon as the work began the rebels opened a piece of artillery upomi the advance, which had halted in the road. After a short time the balance of our brigade were ordered to advance and suppoit the Fifth Connecticut Volunteers, which were on the skirmish line, while two brigades were sent on the fiamiks. The First Brigade advamiced as fast as the nature of the ground would permit, and after getting within range the Fifth Connecticut Volunteers opened a terrific fire on the emmemys battery, driving themn in great confusion from their works, which we soon occu- pied; here we halted for the night. 10th, marched at 7.30 a. in., strik- ing the Charleston and Savannah Railroad at 10 a. in.; after a halt of three honrs we again advanced in directioii of Savannah and within four miles of the city, whemi it was (liscovered that a large force of the enemy was in our front, when we halted auid formed a hue of battle to the left of the road; after sending out pickets we encamuped for the night. 11th, advanced about omme-quarter of a mile, constructed works, and remained until the morning of the 21st, whemi it was discovered that the enemy had evacuated, wheim we immediately advanced our lines, moved within one mile of the city, where we are now encampe~l. There were issued during the campaign eleven days rations; the balance of rations were foraged froni the country. There were twenty- five negroes brought along by this command. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM MERRELL, Ociptain, Comdg. 141st Rcgiment New York Volunteers. Capt. D. W. PALMER, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 84. Report of ]lft~. Patrick Griffith, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania infantry. IIDQRS. FORTY-SIXTH REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VET. VOLS Savannah, & December a., 1864. SIR: * November 15, left Atlanta, Ga., nothing of importance transpiring; camped near Stone Mountain at 4 p. in. 16th, nothing of importance * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. (354 Page 232 232 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. transpiring; camped at Yellow River at 12 P. in. 17th, nothing of importanc.e transpiring; campe(l five miles from hot Creek at 12 p. in.; roads bad; forage plenty. 18th, rear guard left camp at 7.50 a. in.; passed through Social Circle at noon; crossed the River; camped live miles from Rutledge at 2 p. m. 19th, left camp at 6 a. in.; train guard; raining, weather warm passed through Madison at 1 p. in.; camped four miles from Madison on the Milledgeville road at 5 p. in. 20th, rainy all night; First Brigade rear guard; passed through Eatonton at noon; roads almost impassable; camped at 2 a. in. 2lst, rain; roads worse than yesterday; camped at 2 a. in. 22d, left camp at 7 a. in.; weather very cold; crossed Little River at 10 a. in.; arrived in Milledgeville, Ga., at 4 p. in.; crossed Ocoimee River to camp. 23d, left camp to burn railroad; First Brigade destroyed five miles of road; returned to camp at 10 p. in. 24th, left Milledgeville at 7 a. in.; weather clear and cold; roads good; passed through several cane- brakes, and camped near Hebron at 4 p. in. 25th, left camp at6a. in.; delayed at Buffalo Creek on account of bridges having been destroyed; moved to near Sandersville; cavalry had a severe skirmish with the enemy; camped in line for the night. 26th, left camp at 7 a. in.; the advance skirmishing to Sandersyille; enemy retreating; moved to Tennille Station, three miles and a half; destroyed immense amounts of cotton, both raw and manufactured; destroyed one mile and a half of railroad and large warehouses used by the rebel Government to store provisions. 27th, marched from Tennille to Davisborough; camped at 4 p. in. 28th, destroyed railroad from Davisborough to Spiers Station, a distance of eleven miles; camped before nght. 29th, resumed destroy- ing the railroads, and after destroying eight miles encamped at dark near Bostwick. 30th, left camp at 8.30 a. mu., course due north; camped near Louisville at dark. December 1, left camp at daylight, and camped at 8 p. in., nothing of import transpiring. December 2, left camp at 6.30 a. in.; camped at Buck Head Creek at 8 p. in. 1)ecember 3, left camp at 5.30 a. mu.; marched eighteen miles, and encamped at 4 p. mm; weather cloudy. December 4, showers during time night; nothing of importance transpir- ing. 1)ecemnber 5, left camp at dark; camped at 12 p. in.; forage plenty. December 6, left camp at 9 a. in.; camped at dark. December 7, left camp near Sylvania at 10 a. in.; rain all night; l)assed through the worst kind of swamps; on the road until daylight. December 8, re- sumed the march at 8.30 a. in.; weather good; camped at (lark. Decemn- ber 9, left camp at 8 a. in.; advance emigaged with the enemy; First Division in advance; fbund time emmemy stromigly posted in earth-works at Cypress Swamp; First Brigade moved forward in the center, Second Brigade on the right, and Third Brigade on the left; charged amid took the enemimys works in line style; loss iii regiment, three woumided; ca mnped on the captured ground at dark. T)ecember 10, left camp at 8 a. ma.; came on the enemys works four miles fromu Savannah, when I was om-dered by Col. James L. Seifridge, commanding First Brigade, First Division, Twentieth Corps, to move my regiinemmt abont halt a mile to the left on the road leading from the main road to the river. About half an hour after I receive(l an order tromn Brigadier-General Jacksoim, commanding division, (lireeting- me to push my comnman(l to the river, if I could do so safely. I moved on to within a quarter of a mile of the river, where we met the enemys skirmuishers, amid exchanged shots with them about twenty minutes. Fimindimig the emmeinys line strong, and my flanks entirely exposed, I deemed it l)rimdent to fall back a distance of 200 yards, where I remained in line of battle during the night, havimi Page 233 CHAP. LYI.l THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 233 at the same time thrown out a strong skirmish line covering my front and left, my right connecting with the Third Rrigade skirmishers, who were thrown forward during the evening. 1)uring the night I received seven deserters from the enemy, whom I forwarded to brigade head- quarters under guard. On the 12th was ordered into camp near the road occupied by my regiment the night previous, threw up breast- works, and remained until the 23d, when it was foutid that the enemy had evacuated his works, when we advanced to within two miles of the city, and went into our present camp. From the 15th of November (date of leaving Atlanta) until the 23d of 1)ecember, we drew about ten days full rations of crackers, sugar, and coffee. The balance of our supplies were foraged from the country through which we passed. During the campaign I captured 15 or 20 negroes, whom I directed to report to Captain Cadwalader, division quartermaster; also some mules and horses, which were turned in to Captain Whittelsey, corps quartermaster. My command captured 4 Prussian rifled muskets, which were turned in to the division ordnance department. The officers of my command behaved well during the campaign. The enlisted men of my regiment, with one or two ex~eptioiis, obeyed orders promptly. Those who failed to observe them were punished at the time. When the regiment left Atlanta the effective strength was 16 officers and 415 enlisted men. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant P. GItIFFLTII, Capt. D. ~. PALMER, Major, Commanding Regiment. Assistant Adjutant- General, First Brigade. No. 85. Report of Cot. Ezra A. Carman Thirteenth New F manding S1econd Brigade. Jersey nfan try, corn- IIDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRsT Div., TWENTIETH Coups, Year Saran nab; Ga., I)eccm ber 27, 1864. November 15, the brigade, with the exception of the Second Massa- chusetts Volunteer Infantry which was heft to (lestroy the public l)rop- erty in the city and accompany the Fourteenth Corps until such time as it could rejoin its brigade, took up its line of march with the division alm(I corps to which it belongs, m arched to Stone Mountain and encamped for the iiight. November 16 it crossed Yellow River and Rock Bridge, and elicamped two miles from east bank. November 17, crossed Big and Little ilaynes Creeks, and encamped iiear Sheffield. November 18, in compliance with or(lers issue(1 from Major-General Sherman l)revious to starting on this campaign, I detailed a forage party consisting of two companies from each regiment, with directions to proceed along each side of the road, keeping within half a mile of the column, and collect what subsistence they could find for the use of the brigade. One detachment of forty-three men, under command of For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 655 Page 234 234 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Capt. G. W. Reid, all from the One hundrc(l and seventh New York Volunteers, did not return. I have Since learne(l they were captured by the enemy five or six miles from the column. J~assed through Social Circle and Rutledge this day, and encamped four miles from Madison. November 19, the brigade marched through Ma(lisou and encamped four miles east of that place. November 20, it marched to within four miles of Eatonton. November 21, it passed through Eatonton and marched to Little River. November 22, marched to Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia. When within one mile of time city the Third Wis- consin and One hundred and seventh New York Volunteers were sent forward as guard to the city, Col. William Hawley, Third Wisconsin Volunteers, being appointed l)ost coninmander. The brigade then marched through tIme city, crossed the Oconee River, encamn~)ing near it. The State arsenal and a large amount of l)ublie })rof)erty was destroyed at this ])laCC, for particulars of which I respectfully refer to report of Colonel Hawley, commanding Third Wiseon sin Volunteer Infantry, and also to appendix to this rel)ort, marked C. November 23, remained iu camp in Milledgeville; Second Massachusetts Volunteers joined the brigade here. November 24, the brigade marched to within three miles of ilebron Post-Office. November 25, it crossed Buffalo Creek and marched to within four miles of San(lersvihle. November 26, the bri- gade this day had the advance; moved out of camp at 6.30 a. in., and after marching two miles, the Ninth Illinois Cavalry* in our front encoun- tered the enemy, who were posted on a small creek, the road through which had been obstructed by fallen trees. Time enemy were soon dis. lodged and pursued to Sandersville, at which place they made a stand, driving back our cavalry. I then deployed six companies of the Thir- teenth New Jersey Volunteers as skirmishers, with four companies in reserve, and advanced on them, the Ninth Illinois being disposed on the flanks. The enemy gave way before my skirmishers, and I entered town at the same time as did the Fourteenth Corps, who came in on another road to the left. Moving to tIme right I followed the enemy through town and one mile beyond, skirmishing a little. My loss was two men wounded, belonging to the Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers. I was then recalled and ordered with the rest of the division to Ten- nihle Statiomi, on the Georgia Central Railroad, where I destroyed about three miles of track and emmeamped for time night. November 27, marched to Davisborough Station, No. 22; crossed Williamsons Swamp Creek. November 28, destroyed three miles of railroad track and marched to Spi~rs Station. November 29, destroyed four miles of railroad track of Georgia Central, two saw-muills and lumber yards, an(l the timber for four large bridges ready for use. One of the l)ridges was marked Straw- berry Plains, one Chattanooga Creek; the other two names have escaped my memory. This timber has been gotten out and made ready for use, even to having the pegs to ummite it turned, and was intended, as I after- ward learned from a citizen, for future operations of the enemy in East Tennessee. I should estimate time number of feet in this pile of timber to be 1,500,000. November 30, crossed the Ogeechee and encamped three miles southeast of Louisville. December 1, crossed Jones Mill Cm-eek, Dry, Spring, Bakers, and Camp Creeks, camping near Jones Mill Creek. December 2, passed through Birdville and encamped at Buck head Church. December 3, crossed Waynesborough railroad and marched three miles to Millen. Decem- ber 4, crossed Little Ogeecimee Creek at Hunters Mills and encamped * Mounted infantry Page 235 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 235 six miles southeast of Sylvania. December 5, marched two miles south- east. December 6, marched seventeen miles in same direction. Decem- ber 7, marched td Springfield. Decembe.r 8, camped imear Eden. December 9, moved out to the Monteith road, r caching the Monteitli Swamp about noon, where the enemy had erected two earth-works across the road and felled the timber for some distance iu front. Received orders to move up ou the right of the road and endeavor to flank these works. I moved through the wood about three-quarters of a mile, where I found a rice field extending up to the left of their bat- tery (our right). I torlne(l the brigade iii two hues across this field, advanced skirmishers, and moved forw-ard. The enemy opened one piece of artillery omi my skirmishers, but 50011 ceased and evacuated their fort. The groumud being a rice swamp my progress was neces- sarily very slow, and they escaped, with the exception of three men cap- tured by the Third Wisconsin Volunteers; encamped for the night. December 10, moved down to the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, and destroyed about two miles of the track, an d moved on to within five miles of Savannah, where time enemy were found strongly intrenched. Formed line of battle on left of Third Division, right resting ou the Savannah turnpike. A forage ~)a.rty under commimnand of Captain Gildersheeve, One hundred and fiftieth New York Volnuteers, this day captured the rebel dispatch steamer Ida on the Savammminah River, taking thirteen prisoners, among whom was Colonel Clinch, of General ilardees staff. The steamer was burned by Captain Gildersheeve, lie not being able to hold it on account of tIme rebel gun-boats on the river. Decem- 11, the brigade in samne positiomi; under orders from the brigadier. general commnanding the division, the Second Massachusetts and One hundred and seventh New York, under command of Colonel Cogswell, Second Massachusetts, made a reconnaissance of the emmemys position and reported directly to division headquarters. Later in the day I was directed to send one regiment to report to the brigadier-general commanding the corps for special service. The Third Wisconsin, Col- onel Hawley commanding, was selected, amid received orders fromn Brigadier-Genem-al Williams. comnmnan diimg Twentieth Corps, to cross to Argyle Island in tIme Savamummah River, secure such property as he might find there, and also to mnake a reconnaissance to the South Caro- lina shore. Two companies of this regimemit crossed to Argyle Island this night and six comopanies the following moinimig, leavimug two com- panies to guard the Georgia shore and take charge of a rice mill and contrabamud camp. 1)eeeniber 12, while crossing time river Colomiel flaw- 1ev discovered three steamers descending. Wim inegars battery, on time Georgia shore, imumediately opened fire upomi tlmeni, (I rivin g two gun-boats, Macon and Sampson, back. Omie, the armned steam temmder Resolute, was driven on the island and captured with all the crew, consistin gof5officers and 19 men, by Colonel Hawley. There was a quamitity of ordmmance and subsistence stores omi board, a list of which is given in appendix C. Colonel Hawley also secured a quantity of stores amid animnals upomi the island, which will be found enumerated imi appemidix C to this report. The brigade remnained in same position until l)ecemnber 15, when the Second Massachusetts Volum uteers was ordered by Brigadier-General Williams to report to Colommel Hawley at once upon Argyle Island. l)ecember 16, received orders from Ihigadier-Gemmeral Williams to move my brigade over Argyle Island, and from thence to the South Carolina shore. At 7 a. inn., being relieved by Colonel Dustimis brigade, of Third Divisiomi, I proceeded with the remain(ler of the brigade to Argyle Island, and took up position on the eastern point and near South Car Page 236 236 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. lina shore. Two pieces of artillery, Battery I, First New York, were ordered to report to me, and were 1)ut into position Dunn received orders from iHrio-adi the night er-General Williams, commanding corps, to cross my brigade to the South Carolina shore, and take up position near the river, threatening the Savannah and Charleston pike. Later in the evening this order was countermanded, and an order given to send 100 men only and cross them in small boats. December 17 I fouimd it impossible to cross 100 men in small boats, not having enough for the purpose, and the low state of the tide not warranting the use of the large barges. Nothing special occurred during the day, save a desultory fire on our position by a light battery of General Wheelers cavalry command,, which had now taken up position on the South Car- olina shore opposite us. December 15, remained in same position on Argyle Island, with slight shelling from General Wheelers guns. De- cember 19, under orders from the brigadier-general commanding divis- ion, the Third Wisconsin, Second Massachnsetts, and Thirteenth New Jersey, all under command of Colonel Hawley, were sent over to the South Carolina shore at daybreak. They landed without opposition, and, advancing to and beyoimd Izards Mill, succeeded, after a slight skirmish, in securing a good position. Deeming the force too inade- quate to maintain its ground against the accumulating force of the enemy, the One hundred and seventh New York was sent over in the afternoon and succeeded in gaining an important point on the line. So iml)ortant did the enemy consider this position that they charged our forces wmth their cavalry, but were speedily driveiu off. I then muoved the remaining regiment of the brigade, One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers, to the South Carolina shore, and established there nmy headquarters at Izards Mill. The position occupied by the brigade was strong for defense, but the nature of the ground was such that an advance was difficult. It was a rice plantation, cut up by numerous dikes and cammals, and the enemy had burned all the bridges over the canals and overflowed the whole plantation to a depth of eight to eighteen inches water, thus necessitating all our movements by the hank up these dikes, an(l they stood well prepared at these places to resist our advance. During the night I tramusported time two pieces of artillery across the river and put themn in position in the center of the line. The line, as then formed and held by my brigade, was two miles and a quarter long, the left resting on the Savannah River near Izards Mill, the right on an inlet near Clydesdale Creek. During the night I caused earth-works to be thrown up at all the prominent points along the line, making my positiomi as strong as possible. December 20, imi obedience to orders from the brigadier-general commanding division to determine the position of Clydesdale Creek with referemice to my line, I detailed twelve companies of the brigade, under imnmnediate command of Colonel law-hey, Third Wisconsin Volunteers, amid accompammied them myself. The force succeeded in reaching Clydesdale Creek with the loss of one man killed, and after erecting works for one regiment amid posting therein two companies of Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers, an effort was made to strike the Savannah and Hardeeville road, but the enemy, anticipating the movement, had thrown a strong force in our front. Having a canal to cross under their fire if we advanced I ordered the detachment to withdraw. During the day a great number of vehicles of all descriptions were seen passing our fromit, moving from Savannah toward Hardeeville, which fact was reported to the headquar- ters of the division. In the afternoon a rebel gun-boat came up the river in our rear and threw about thirty shells in my brigade, killing on Page 237 Cn& r. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 237 man of One hundred and fiftieth New York. I could not reach it with my artillery. At 4 p. m. the enemy were re-enforced by three regiments of infantry from Savannah. From 7 p. in. until 3 a. m. the noise of the retreating enemy could plainly be heard as they crossed the bridges from Savannah to the South Carolina shore. December 21, at 7 a. in. I received orders from the brigadier-general commanding division, through Captain Bennett, topographical engineer, to recross my bri- gade to the Georgia shore as rapidly as possible and march into Sa. vannali, which place had surrendered to us at 5 a. in. The enemy were still in my front, aiid I made dispositions to cross by sending the One hundred and fiftieth New York, Colonel Ketcham commanding, across to Argyle Island au(l put into position behind the dike so as to cover the withdrawal of the rear guard down a dike on the Carolina shore to a lower landing opposite Gibbons Mill. The Second Massachusetts Volunteers and the two pieces of artillery were then withdrawn, the Second Massachusetts landing on Argyle Island, and the artillery, loaded on a barge, being ordered to land on the island. On account of the high wind tIme artillery could not be landed as desired. The enemy perceiving our movements advanced their skirmishers rapidly, but were checked by the bold front and steadiness of our own skirmishers. It was 2 oclock before the artillery and stores could be got far enough away to warrant the withdrawal of the balance of the brigade; then it was withdrawn, followed by our skirmishers, the enemy pressing hard. The One hundred and seventh New York Volunteers crossed; theim the enemy grew more bold, advancing at all points, but nuder cover of the numerous dikes they were held in check. At sunset the Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers crossed, and Colonel Hawley, commanding Third Wisconsin, with the skirmish line, was left to the delicate task of with- drawing undey cover of darkness. At 11 p. in. time skirmish line crossed amid without the loss of a man captured. During the severe skirmish- ing of the afternoon Col. John H. Ketcham, comman(hing One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers, a valuable officer, was severely woumided in the thigh. He had but two days before joined his com- mnand while we lay on Argyle Island. December 22, crossed from Argyle Island to maimiland and took position on the right of the First Brigade of the division, about two miles north of the city of Savannah. On withdrawing from South Carolina and Argyle Island about 150 negroes came with my brigade. In closing this report I cannot forbear to say that in my opinion the positmon taken and held by this brigade on the South Carolina side of the river had much to do in accelerating the evacuation of the city of Savannah. During the entire march from Atlanta to this place the brigade has subsisted entirely upon the country (for statenient of stores captured see appendix C). We have traveled 323 miles, have not lost a uman by sickness, and have now only 11 on the sick list, or less than 1 per cent. For list of casualties see appendix A; for list of prisoners captured see appendix B; for list of property captured and destroyed see ap- J)elidix C. Accompanying this report I submit the reports of my regimental commanders. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. A. CABMAN, tient. GEORGE ROBINSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Actg. A8st. Adjt. Gen., First Dirision, Twentieth Corps Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. RECAPITULATiON. APPiNFIx A. Killed. Woun(leL Captured and missing. Aggregate. Command. I a a a ~ a a a5 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ a o ~ 0 ~ HO ~ HO ~ H 0 ~ H 107th New York Volunteers 0 6 1 52 53 1 58 59 150th New York Volunteers a 2 2 1 5 6 ,. .. 12 12 1 19 20 l3thNewJersey Volunteers 3 3 . .. 3 3 . .. 6 6 2d Massachusetts Veteran Volunteers 2 2....17 17... 19 19 3d Wisconsin Veteran Volunteers 1 1 1 3 4 .... 9 9 1 13 14 Total 3 3 2 19 21 1 93 94 3 115 118 a One committed suicide. APPENDIX B.List of rebel prisoners captured. Date. Locatiou. Officers. Men. Decemher 9 Monteith Swamp 3 30 Steamer Ida 1 12 11 Steamer Resolute 5 19 Total 6 34 APPENDIX C. Property captured and appropriated for use of the brigade. Horses 5 Rico (threshed) bnshels.. Mules 44 Sirup barrels. - Corn pounds. - 177, 118 Sugar pounds. - Fodder do. - - - 205, 500 Salt barrels. - Sweet potatoes do---- 95, 000 Bacon pounds.. Fresh meat, including poul- Meal and flour do.... try potln(ls.. 95, 000 Whisky barrels.. Rice (in the sheaf) do.... 20, 000 Tobacco pounds.. Property captured and turned over. Cotton (taken by Col. William Hawley at Milledgeville and disposed of by Major-General Sherman) bales 1, 800 Steamer Resolute, of C. S. Navy, with the following cargo, turned over to Captain Whittelsey, assistant quartermaster Twentieth Corps: Short Whitney rifled muskets (accouterments complete) 10 Short Whitney rifled muskets (aceonterments complete) 10 Flour barrels 5 Beef do 6 Sirup do i Vinegar do.... Rice do + Coffee bags 6 Candles 1)01. - 1 Bread boxes. - 3 Bacon pounds.. 500 Taken on Argyle Isl.jand and turned over to Captain Whittelsey, assistant quartermaster Twentieth Corps: Horses 2 Mules 14 500 13 1,000 6 1, 000 1,500 2 1, 500 [Ciw. LVI Page 239 & AP. LVI.] TIlE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 239 Property destroyed. Railroad track between Atlanta and Chattahoochee River nuics - - Georgia Central Railroad (10--- Charleston and Savannah Railroad do--- Ordnance and ordnance stores destroyed at Milledgeville: Muskets (smooth-bore, caliber .69) burned Ammunition for the same burned rounds - - Infantry accouterments burned sets - - Lances, or John Brown pikes, burned Cutlasses burned U. S. standard weights and measures burneff boxes. - Fixed artillery ammunition thrown in the river boxes. - Kegs of powder thrown in the river Also a quantity of saddles, harness, & c. Destroyed during the march: Cotton gins Cotton bales. - Steam saw-mills Railroad bridges framed and ready for usc (1,500,000 feet) 9 ii 2, 300 10, 000 300 5, 000 1, 500 15 170 200 5 400 2 4 Captured on the Savannah River by Captain Gildersleeve, One llun(lred and fiftieth New York Volunteers, and burned, Confederate steamer Ida. No. 86. Report of Col. William Coyswell, ASCCOU(1 Jlassachusetts Infantry. HEADQUARTERS SECOND MASSACHUSETTS INFANTRY, In the Field, December 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that on the occupation of Atlanta by the Twentieth Corps, September 2, the Second Massa- chusetts Infantry was assigned to duty in the city as provost guard, in which position it remained nutil November 16, when it started on the march in rear of the Fonrteenth Corps, being the last of the army to leave town. Camped at night about five miles beyond Decatur. November 17, marched iii rear of Fourteenth Corps wagon traimi to Coiiyers; foraged about eight head of cattle. November 18, followed Fourteenth Corps train across Yellow River; foraged two days rations of potatoes. November 19, marched through Covington; crossed the Ulcofauhachee River, destroying the bridge, and camped at Newborn. November 20, marched in rear of Fourteenth Corps train about sixteen miles; -foraged a wagon-load of sweet potatoes. November 21, left the Fourteenth Corps at Eatonton Factory; crossed Little River and camped. November 22, marched through Eatonton; crossed Little River on pontoon, and camped at Meriweather. Novem- ber 23, marched through Mihledgevihle; crossed the Oconee River; joined the brigade and went into camp. November 24, marched with brigade to Hebron. November 25, crossed Buffido Creek and camped about three miles beyond. November 26, marched through Sanders- yule; skirmished with cavalry; marched to Tennille Station and de- stroyed half a mile of railroad track. November 27, marched to Davis- borough Station. November 28, marched on railroad to Spiers Turn- out; destroyed about one mile of track. November 29, marched on railroad about seven miles; destroyed about two miles of track. Novemn- ber 30, crossed the Ogeechee and camped about three miles beyond. December 1, marched with wagons abont ten miles through bad swamps. December 2, marched with wagons. December 3, marched about eleven miles. December 4, marched to near Hunters Mills Page 240 240 OPERATIONS IN S C., GA., AND FLA. [CHArLVI~ December 5, marched in rear of traiii. December 6, marched. Decem- ber 7, crossed Turkey Branch; camped miear Springfield. December 8, marched about ten miles. December 9, marched to about fifteen miles from Savannah; encountered a small force of the enemy in a small work with two guns ;got on their fiamik and they left. December 10, marched across the Charleston and Savannah Railroad; partially destroyed a bridge, and at night went into position about five miles from Savannah, about one mile from the enemys works. December 11, the regiment, with the One hundred and seventh New York, made a reconnaissance toward the enemys works. December 12, advanced with the brigade and took position near the enemys works. December 13 and 14, lay in the same position. Deceniber 15, crossed the Savan- nah River on fiat-boats and camped on a rice plantation on Argyle Island, micar the Third Wisconsin. 1)ecember 16, were shelled from the South Carolina shore and from a rebel gun-boat. I)ecember 17, lay in same position; threw up some slight detensive works. December 18, lay in same positioti. December 19, crossed at daylight on fiat-boats to the Carolina shore; the Third Wisconsin in advance; drove in the enemys skirmishers and established a line of battle about a mile from the river; advanced a short distance about noon to a small hill aiid threw up works; were shelled by the enemy. 1)ecember 20, had works built for two gnus which were crossed in the night; wei:e shelled by gun-boat and field battery. December 21, received orders to cross to Argyle island, which was effected without loss to our regiment. Com- panies A and C and our pickets were hard pressed by the enemy, but crossed late at night with a loss of one man wounded. The regiment attempted to cross to the mainland, but, a heavy wind prevailing, were blown down river to Kings Island and recrossed the regiment to Argyle Island in small boats with much difficulty. December 22, the whole day spent in crossing the brigade to the Georgia shore. At night marched about seven miles to the present camup of the command. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. COGSWELL, Colonel, Commanding Second iVfassachusetts Infantry. Capt. J. R. LINDSAY, Acting As8istant Adjutant- General, Second Drigade. No. 87. Report of ]iIiaj. Frederick lii. harris, Thirteenth New Jersey Infantry. IIDQRS. THIRTEENTh NEW JERSEY VOLUNTEERS, Near Savannah, Ga., December 24, 18G4. SIR:* November 15, muarched seventeen miles in a southeasterly direction to foot of Stone Mountain, passing through Decatur and into De Kalb County, where our brigade did picket duty. November 16, marched ten miles in a northeasterly direction to two miles east of Yellow River; crossed river at Rock Bridge and passed into Gwinmmett County. November 17, muarchmed thirteen miles east, to three miles beyond Shef field, and into Newton aiid Walton Counties; crossed Big and Little * For l)ortio1~ of re])ort (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 656 Page 241 CXAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 241 ilaynes Creeks. November 18, marched twenty-one miles southeast to five miles east of Rutledge, passing through Social Circle and Rut- ledge to within four miles of Madison. November 19, marched four miles east to Madison, passing through the town; thence south four miles toward Eatonton, and passed into Morgan County. November 20, marched thirteen miles south to five miles north of Eatonton, county town of Putnam County. November 21, marched eighteen miles south to Little River, passing through Eatonton. November 22, marched twelve miles to Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, which was surren- dered to our forces without opposition. Our brigade marched through the city on the advance, crossed the Oconee River, and encamped about a mile from the city, in Baldwin County. November 23, rested near Milledgeville. November 24, marched fifteen miles to within three miles of ilebron Post-Office, crossed Town, Gum, and Bluff Creeks and entered Washington County. November 25, marched four miles east to Buffalo Creek, passing through Hebrou Post-Office; thence four miles east of Buftuiio Creek; were delayed at creek some little time by burii- ing of bridge across it and camped four miles from Sandersville. No- vember 26, started at 6 a. in., our regiment being on the right of the division, the Ninth Illinois Cavalry* being the advance guard. We had not procee(led far before the cavalry were fired upon by the eneumy. Our regiment was then deployed as skirmishers, with four companies in reserve. We then advanced, crossing acreekwhich the enemy had made impassable for our cavalry by fallen tiniber and other obstructions. We commenced skirmishing with the rebels at this point, but drove them rapidly for about four miles, and entered the town of Sandersyille a little in advance of the skirmishers of the Fourteenth Corps. Two of our men were severely wounded, one slightly. We then resumed our march south to Tennille Station, No.13; skirmishers thrown out on both sides of road; here we commenced tearing up the track of the Georgia Central Rail- road; we tore up about half a mile, and then were sent out as pickets for the brigade, after which we returned to Tennille, where we encamped for the night. November 27, marched eighteen mil& s east to Davis- borough Station, No. 12, Georgia Central Railroad; crossed William- sons Swamp Creek. November 28, marched elevemi miles east to Spiers Station, No. 11, tearing up and destroying about half a mile of track; passed into Jefferson County. November ~9 to Bostwick, te up and destroying narched eight miles east aring about half a mile of track; also destroyed a large lumber yard of bridge timber; thence one mile to camp. November 30, marched eight miles northwest to near Louisville; crossed Ogeechee River, and encamped three miles southeast of the town of Louisville. December 1, marched thirteen miles east to near Jones Mill Creek, crossing Dry, Spring, Bakers, and Camp Creeks; passed into Burke County. Decemuber 2, marched fifteen miles east to Buck Head Church; crossed Jones Mill and Buck Head Creeks; passed through Birdville. December 3, marched sixteen miles east to three miles north of Milieu; passed Camp Lawtou and into Screven County; crossed Little Buck Head Creek and Waynesborongli railroad. 1)ecember 4, marched six- teeu miles east to six miles southeast of Sylvania; crossed Little Ogeechee River at Hunters Mills. December 5, marched two miles southeast amid camped eight mniles southeast of Sylvania. l)ecember 6, marched eleven miles southeast to sixteen nmiles northwest of Spring- field; passed into Effiugham County. December 7, marched fifteen Mounted infantry. 16 R RVOL XLI Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. miles southeast to one mile northwest of Springfield; crossed Turkey Branch Creek. December 8, marched twelve miles southwest to near Eden; passed through Springfield. December 9, marched three miles south to the Monteith road, thence along this road southeast to the Monteith Swamp, which the road crosses fourteen miles from Savannah. Here we found the rebels had built two forts across the road, which was alsc obstructed by felled timber. Our brigade was sent to the right of the forts; formed Iii t~y~j hues jii a rice swamp. The rebels opened on us with one piece of artillery. A charge was then umade upon the fort, which the rebels evacuated before we reached; encamped near it for the night, having marched nine miles. December 10, marched on the Monteith pike about five miles~ struck the Charleston and Savan- nah Railroad; tore up and burned a quarter of a mile of it; then moved to within about five miles of Savannah, when our regiment was placed in reserve in rear of the One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers, and about a mile from the rebel works. December 11, moved at 7 p. m. from the second line to the front; encamped in hue of battle. Decem- ber 12, took positiomi in line of battle to left of and between Savannah turnpike and river amid to the north of Pipe-Makers Creek. December 13, threw np breast-works in frommt of regiment. December 16, crossed Savannah River at Cummin gs Ferry to Argyle Island in flat-boats; we threw up breast-works on the northeast side of island. I)ecember 19, according to order this regiment, together with the Second Massa- chusetts and Third Wisconsin Volunteers, crossed to the South Caro- lina shore, at 7 a. in., in flat-boats. Skirmishers were thrown out. The regiment took position to protect the right; tIme right, resting on Hog Island Creek, landed on South Carolina shore near ~ Mill. Our regiment was themi moved farther to the left to Smilhs house, Beech Hill, where it threw up breast-works, one company being sent to Col- onel Hawley to assist in capturing a hill. December 20, three coinpa- nies joined with other detachments, under commamud of Colonel ilawley, to make reconnaissance. Late in afternoon was severely shelled by gun-boat in river. During night heard much noise as of moving of troops in our front, which was afterward found to be the evacuation of Savannah. December 21, crossed river to Argyle Island and part of regiment over to Georgia shore. December 22, crossed balance of regi- ment to Georgia shore and marched seven muiles south to two miles from Savannah, taking position near river and opposite Hutchinsons Island. I am, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant, FRED. II. HARRIS, Major, Commanding Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers. Capt. J. R. LINDSAY, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2d Brig., 1st ilYir., 20th Army Corps. No. 88. Report of Lient. Col. Allen N. KS dl, One hundred and seventh New York Im~fantry, of operations ASeptem ber 2December 23. HEADQUARTERS 107TH NEw YORK VOLUNTEERS, Near Sara nnah, Ga., J)e cember 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to subunit the following report as the part taken by this regiment in this camnpaign: On the 2d of Septeunber, 1864, this regimeumt entered Atlanta as part of a reconnoitering party scuit from divisiomi headquarters nuder corn Page 243 CHAP. LYI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 243 mand of Col. N. M. Crane. After passing through the city we took position in the rebel breast-works fronting toward Decatur. Remained in camp until the morning of the 5th of September, when orders were received for this regiment to report to Col. A. Bcckwith, chief commis- sary of subsistence, in the city for duty. Remained on duty in the city, guarding subsistence and quartermasters stores, until ordered to join the brigade on the 15th of November l)rcparatory to this campaign; joined the brigade and marched to Stone Mountain and camped for the night; resumed the march on the 16th and camped near Sheffield at 12 midnight. 011 the 17th marched twenty miles and camped for the night near Social Circle. On the 18th marched twenty miles; sent out two companies (D and K) foraging by (lirection from brigade headquarters, under command of Capt. George W. Reid, with instructions to keep near the road and bring the stores gathered up to the road to be loaded into wagons, but not returning we afterward learned that Reids com- pany, comprising 27 enlisted mneim and 16 men belonging to Company D, had been captured near Social Circle; the whole number captured, including the captain, was 44 men. Camped near Madison on the 18th. On the 19th broke camp at 6 a. in. and resumed the march, passing through Madison about noon; camped at 4 p. m. six miles east of Madison. November 20, broke camp at 9 a. in.; marched eighteen miles; camped at 9 p. m. four miles north of Eatonton; rained quite hard dur- ing the night. Resumed the march on the 21st, at 7 a. in.; found the roads very heavy and in some places almost impassable; rained very hard during the forenoon; passed through Eatonton about 11 a. m; camped for the night twelve miles from Milledgeville. November22, found the air (lear and cold; ground frozen. This regiment, with the brigade, moved in advance of the traimi and canine up to the capital of Georgia about 3 p. in.; this regiment, with the Third Wisconsin Volunteers, was ordered to enter the city; we met with no opposition; um arched to the square about the capitol and camped; guards were a.t~once stationed about all public works, arsemmal, arninory, & c., under direction of Colonel hawley, Third Wisconsin Volunteers, amid all Government property taken account of; remained here until time morning of the 24th of Novem- ber, when the march was resumed; crossed the Oconee River, camping for the night micar Hebron Post-Office, having traveled fifteemi miles. November 25, marclmed ten miles; camped six miles from Samiders- ville. On the 26th moved at 6 a. in.; had proceeded but about two miles when skirmishimig was heard ahead. The enemimy was soon driven back and we I)assed on to Sandersville; having passed through the village this regiment was formed mu hue of battle on time right of the Second Massachusetts Volunteers; a(lvanced but a short distance when the halt was sounded; returned to the village and resumed the march on another road; crossed the Macon and Savaummah Railroad at Station No. 13; proceeded down the track about one mile and destroyed the track for some distammee; went into camp near the station. Resunmed time march on the 27th instant, at 6 a. in.; marched fifteen miles and camped near Davisborough. November 28, moved out on the railroad at 6 a.. mu.; followed the track for two days, destroying both ties and rails. On the 30th left the railroad, moving up time Ogeechee River, on time south side, until near Louisville, where we crossed the river amid joined our train. Dec~mber 1, broke cammip at 8 a. in.; found the roads very bad, run- ning through an almost impassable swamp; camped at midminight temi miles fmom where we started. December 2, broke camp at 6 a. in.; camped at 11 p. in. in the woods, December 3, resumed the march a Page 244 244 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. 8 a. in.; reached the Milieu and Augusta Railroad about udon; camped near Millen. December 4, broke camp at daylight and marched fifteen miles and went into camp. IRemained in camp December 5 until 6 p. m. waiting for the wagon trains to pass; moved two miles and camped. December 6, resumed the march, guarding time rear of the trains; made a distance of twelve miles and camped. December 7, broke camp at 7 a. in.; marched thirteen miles; roads very bad; rained during most of the forenoon; camped at 9 p. in. December 8, resumed the march at 7 a. in.; passed through Springfield at 9 a. in.; marched nine miles an(1 camped. December 9, broke camp at 9 a. in. and marched at 10; at 2 p. in. reached Momiteith Swamp, where we found the First Brigade skir- mishing with the emmemy; halted for diummer. At 3 p. in. moved to the right of the road and formed line of battle in a swamp where the water was knee deep. This regiment went into position on the left of the Third Wisconsin Volunteers and on the right of the One hundred and fiftieth New York Volunteers. Moved forward and soomi our skir- mishers were engaged and uncovered a redoubt, when the enemy opemied on us with artillery. The line halted, when soon after the First Brigade opened on the redoubt from the opposite side and the enemimy left their works and retreated iii haste, taking with theni, honrever, their artil- lery. Our line moved forward and halted near the redoubt and camped for the night. December 10, resumed tIme march at 6.30 a. in.; crossed the Savannah amid Charleston Railroad at Monteith Station; halted and destroyed the track for sonic distance when orders caine to move on; camped at 2 p. in. four miles from Savannah. i)eceumber 11, this i~egimnent, with the Second Massachusetts, was ordered out on a recon- naissance; did not proceed far before we found the enemny in strong works; returned to camp at 11 a. in. Deceniber 12, moved imito line of battle on the left of the Second Massachnsetts Volunteers and on the right of the Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers, where breast-works were erected. December 13, 14, an(1 15, remained in camimp without ammy change. December 16, broke camp at 6 a. inn.; marched to the Savan- nah River and crossed to Argyle Island with the brigade, a distance of four miles, where we camped and remained without accident until the 19th, when this regiment changed position and occupied the cainni) of the Thirteenth New Jersey Volunteers, but at 2 p. ni. crossed time east branch of the river to South Carolina to join the brigade. This regi- ment was divided and four companies ordered to report to Colonel Cogswell, Second Massachusetts Volunteers, and two companies to rel)ort to Colonel Hawley, Third Wisconsin Volunteers and two com- panies were left to guard the landing; five compammies (A, B, G-, 11, and I) were moved upon by the enemy, and the enemy were repulsed, when the five companies were ordered back by Colonel Hawley, and took position in rear and fortified; two men only were slightly wounded. December 20, were joined by time remainimig companies amid lay in works all day. December 21, received news that Savanmmah was occupied 1)y our troops; orders were received at 8 a. in. to recross the river; this regiment moved down to the landing but was returned to the support of time line; remained in works until 2 p. mu., (hiring wimich timmue time enemy made movements in front as if to attack, but nothimmg occurre(1 but slight skirmishing; at 2 p. in. we were again ordered to retire to the river; recrossed safely to Argyle Island and remained (luring the night. December 22, reinaiiied in works on the island, unable to recross the west branch of the river on account of the strong wind; about 12 m. the enemy moved down to the river and annoyed the troops by sharpshooters; we had one muan severely wounded in the leg; crossed t Page 245 Cimp. INI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 245 the Georgia shore at 4 p. m. and marched to within one mile of Savan- nah; went into camp at 10 p. m. December 23, received orders to go into camp and erect comfortable quarters. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. N SILL , Commanding. Capt. ~. ~. LINDSAY, Lieutenant-Colonel Actg. Asst. Adji. Gen., 2d Brig., 1st Dir., 2()th Army Corps. No. 89. Report of Maj. Alfred 11. Smith, One hundred and fiftieth New York injantry. HEADQUARTERS 150TH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, - Near Savannah, Ga., December 24, 1864. SIR:* November 15, marched at 5.30 a. m. toward Decatur; made Stone Mountain, a distance of sixteen miles. November 16, ready to march at 6.30 a. in., and marched at 4 p. m. a distance of eight miles, and got into camp on the east side of the Yellow River. November 17, marched at 8 a m difficult roads; made seventeen miles, and halted at Rock Bridg~ at 12 midnight. November 18, marched at S a. in., guard- ing and assisting sixty wagons over all bad places in the roads. Passed through Social Circle and Rutledge, and encamped four miles from Madison; marched nineteen miles. Sent out two companies foraging; I)rOcuLed 1,530 pounds of fresh pork and 10 sheep, and 6 head of fat cattleaverage weight dressed, 300 pounds a head; aggregate, 1,800 poundsand 42 bushels of sweet potatoes, about 64 gallons of sirup; the cattle were turned over to the brigade comnnhissary. November 19, started at 7 a. in.; roads very heavy; helped sixty wagons through; passed through Madison; made nine miles, and got into camp at $3p. m. November 20, marched sixteen miles, over bad roads, toward Eatonton and encamped; rainy day. November 21, marched at 7 a. ni.; roads very bad; built 100 rods of corduroy road of rails at the side of the road, and helped 120 wagons over them; advanced nine miles and encamped late in the night. November 22, marched at 6 a. in.; crossed Little River on pontoon bridge; reached Milledgeville at 1 p. ni., and went into camp east of the city across the river, having marched thirteen miles. November 23, remained in same camp; collected forage in large quan- tities; picked up and turned in 4 large serviceable mules, 40 bushels of sweet potatoes, 2,000 pounds fresh l)ork, 200 poumids bacon, 60 gallons molasses or sirup, 100 pounds meal. November 24, marched at 6.30 a. in.; advanced fifteen miles, to within two miles of Ilebron, and encamped at dusk; 50 bushels of sweet l)otatoes procured thr the regi- ment and 1,000 pounds fresh pork. November 25, marched at 6.30 a. advanced ten miles and found a bridge destroyed six miles fromn San- dersville; halted for the night; Some skirmishing in front with rebel cavalry. Novemuber 26, m arched at 6 a. mu.; crossed a creek amid through a bad swamnp, and moved rapidly toward Sandersville. Heard brisk firing in front; formed limme of battle, Omme hundred and fiftieth Regiment on left of the road. Advanced in line half a mile, then by the flank to withiim half a mile of the town; then formed line and supported tIme * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations abont Atlanta, ~ee Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, p. 657 Page 246 24(3 OPERATIONS IN ~. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYL skirmish line through the town in line of battle. At 12 in. moved south to Tennille, having marched ten miles, destroyed half a mile of railroad, burning the ties and bending the rails, and went into camp at Tennille. November 27, marched at 7 a. in. along the south side of the railroad by a circuitous route, and reached Davisborough Station at dusk, having marched eighteen miles. November 28, marched at 6 a.. in. to tear up railroad; destroyed three miles of railroad, burnimig ties and twisting rails; also burned 1,000 new railroad ties; made ci evemi miles; pro- cured 1,000 pounds fresh nicat and 20 bushels of sweet 1)otatoes; reached Spiers Station at dark; captured an(1 turned over to brigade commissary 17 head of cattle; average weight, 300 pounds. November 29, marched at ~$.30 a. in.; torenp and destroyed one mile and a half of railroad, burned a large quantity of framed bridge timber, and got into camp at 7 p. in.; then reported to General Jackson and went on picket with the regiment, holding the road on which we were to advance. Made eleven miles this day. November 30, marched at 9 a. in. up the Ogeechee River to Blakes plantation; crossed oii a repaired bridge; marched three miles, and encamped on a high plain near our wagon train and not far from Louisville, having marched eleven miles. December 1, marched at 8 a. in.; made thirteen miles; procured 40 bushels sweet potatoes and 400 pounds fresh pork. December 2, marched at 7 a. in.; guarded ninety wagons amid made eleven miles. December 3, marched at 6.30 a. in.; l)assed the pen where the rebels kept our prisoners; made sixteen miles toward Sylvania; obtained an abundance of sweet potatoes and porkabout 40 bushels sweet pota- toes and 1,000 pounds fresh porkand turned in to brigade commissary 24 head of cattleaverage weight 275 pounds, dressed100 pounds sugar, and 60 gallons of molasses. December 4, marched at 6 a. in.; crossed Little Ogeechee River; made fifteen miles; foraging party from bri- gade, under command of Captain Cogswell, procured three wagon-loads of sweet potatoes, 1150 pounds of bacon, and 17 head of cattle, average weight dressed, 250 1)oulLds. Deceniber 5, ready to march at daylight; mnamclied at 7 p. in.; l)assed a very bad swamp; made two miles and went into camp at 1 oclock iii the night; the men procured 40 bushels of sweet potatoes and 600 pounds fresh meat. December 6, marched at 9 a. ni.; made twelve miles; some bad swamnps passed; got into camp at dark; men supplied themselves with sweet l)otatoes, 40 bushels, and 400 pounds fresh pork. I)ecemiiber 7, marched at 7 a. in.; verybad roads; helped fifty wagons through the swamp, and took out of the road a large number of felled trees; went into camp near Springfield, having marched eleven miles. December 8, marched at 7 a. in., leaving wagons and pack-mules at Springfield; made ten miles southwest and southeast, gaining but little; regimeiit procured plenty of sweet pota- toes, 40 bushels, and 200 nounds of pork; men had all to march with wet feet; roads bad, swramps ilooding them. 1)ecember 9, marched at S a. in.; halted at 10 a. in.; road obstructed by flullen trees and a rebel gun playing down the road through the swamp; passed with the bri- ga(le around to the right of the road, through a bad swamp. The One hundred and fiftieth was at first ordered and deployed iii third line of battle, in a rice swamp covered with water from one to three feet deep, themi ordered to the left of the first line, adjoining the Third Wisconsin, then ordered Thrther to the left, through an almost impenetrable s~vamp and thicket, to give room between the One hundred and fiftieth and Third Whconsin for the One hundred and seventh Regiment New York Volunteers. This regiment halted on this line, but seeing the other regiments advancing and the rebels running away, advanced to the fort Page 247 CHAP. Lvi.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 247 The men and officers executed all orders on this difficult maneuver with most commendable alacrity and promptness. Marched about eight miles. December 10, marched at 6 a. in., the One hundred and fiftieth Regi- ment iii advance of the corps; advanced three miles to the Savannah and Charleston Railroad, and at 8 a. m. commenced tearing up the rail- road. Advanced again at 9 a. m. to within four miles of Savannah and formed line of battle, and sent out the right wing of the One hundred and fiftieth Regiment as skirmishers and established the iicket-line. Captain (lildersleeve with his company went out foraging and came upon the rebel dispatch boat Ida; captured arid burned it. They took 13 prisoners, 1 of them a Confederate colonel, Clinch by name. Decem. ber 11, remained in same position. December 12, advanced the line 500 yards and erected breast-works, the One hundred and fiftieth on the right of the brigade next the road. December 13, 14, an(l 15, remained in same position; men very destitute of food, rice and fresh meat the only articles, and ten pounds of rice to 100 men. December 16 moved at 6 a. m. up the river about four miles; crossed over the river to Argyle Island, near the south end of the island. The soldiers procured plenty of unhulled rice, and, pounding it out, supplied themselves bountifully. Crossed the river in scows. December 17 and 18 remained iii same position. December 19, relieved the Third Wisconsin Regimeat in the works on the island at daylight, and crossed to the South Carolina shore at 3 p. m. to support the balance of the brigade. Sent omit two companies on picket. The rebel gun-boat shelled us vigorously and killed one man on the island. December 20, the line was extended to the right by a reconnaissance, in which three companies of the One hun- dred and fiftieth were engaged, to a creek opposite Savannah; estab- lished line and threw up rifle-pits or breast-works, and retired, losing only one man killed. December 21, received orders at 7 oclock to recross the river, as Savannah was ours. Commenced recrossing to Argyle Islamid. The One hundred and fiftieth crossed first and then took posi- tion on the extreme southeasterly point of the island, to cover the cross- ing of the balance of the brigade. The rebels pressed our rear guard, and Companies C and I of the One hundred and fiftieth opened fire upoim them with good effect. checking their advance and enabling the rear of the brigade to cross safely. The wind was very high, rendering the boats unmanageable, and the day was commsumned imi crossing to Argyle Island. Our noble colonel, who Imad returned but two days before and assumed command of his regiment, was severely wounded in this skirmish. The country can ill afford to lose tIme services, even for a time, of one so devoted to his regimemit, amid so competent, faith- ful, and energetic in the discharge of every duty. The regiment crossed to the south side of Argyle lslaud, and remained on the dike all night awaiting an opportunity to cross. December 22, commuenced crossing the river in small boats at 9 a. m. By crossing to tlme sand-bar and walking across it, and thence to the main shore the regiment was all over the river at 12 m. Marclmed at 4 oclock to Savannalm and encamped about two miles out of the city, near the Savanmmah River, second regi- ment from the left of our brigade. As ami approximate estimnate of the amount of provisions secured on this mnarch by the One hundred and fiftieth Regiument, I would say t~vo pounds potatoes per day per man from November 18 to and including December 8, twenty days. Gross arno~rnt of potatoes ponnds. - 20,200 Fresh meat, aside from issue do. - - 15,000 Sirup gallons. - 64 Page 248 248 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Honey pounds -. 300 Bacon and salt meat --- 3,000 Salt do... 500 Sugar do... 1,000 Flour do.~ 1,000 Corn meal do... 1,000 Forage for public and private horses and mules: Corn pouads. 11,340 Fodder do... 13, 860 There have been ,as above stated, 47 head of cattle captured by the regiment and turned over to the brigade commissary, the net weight of which would be about 14,000 pounds. Casualties from September 2 to December 22 iuclusive.* The conduct of the men and officers of this regiment in this cam- paign deserves the highest commendation. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, A. B. SMITH, Major, Commanding Regiment. Capt. J. IR. LINDSAY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 90. Reports of Col. William Hawley, Third Wisconsin Ii~antry. HDQRS. THIRD WISCONSIN VETERAN VOLUNTEER INFTY., Near Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864. CAPTAIN:t November 15, started with the balance of the army on the expedi- tion to this city; passed through Decatur and went into camp on rail- road near Stone Mountain; distance marched, fourteen niile~. Novem- ber 16, marched seven miles and ~vent into camp near Yellow River. November 17, marched fourteen miles and went into camp near Gum Creek. November 18, marched eighteen miles and camped near Social Circle. November 19, marched twelve miles, passing throngh Madi- son, and arriving in camp at an early hour. here I was directed by the colonel commanding brigade to conduct an expedition into the country for supplies, furnishing me for this purpose four wagons. On this expedition I marched eight miles and loaded my wagons with molasses, hogs, bacon, and potatoes. These supplies were turned over to the brigade commissary. November 20, marched ten miles toward Eatonton. November 21, marched twelve miles, passing through Eaton- ton, and went into camp at Dennis Station. November 22, marched thirteen miles to Milledgeville. Arriving near the city the corps was halted, and by direction of major-general commanding Left Wing, I entered the placeat the head of my own regiment and the One hundred and seventh New York Volunteer Infantry, and assumed command of the post. During my short stay in Milledgeville I received orders direct from the major-general commanding -Left Wing of the army. My duties mainly consisted iii pati-olling the streets, ascertaining the amount of public and other property captured and guarding the same, and maintainingso far as my limited means would allowgood order in the city. The following is a list of the property seized, with the dis- position made of the same: Burned2 ,300 muskets, smooth-bore, cahi * Nominal list (here omitted) shows 2 enlisted men killed, and 1 committed suicide7 1 commissioned officer and 3 enlisted men wounded, and 12 enlisted men missing. For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 658 Page 249 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 249 ber .69; 10,000 rounds cartridges, caliber .69; 300 sets accouterments; 5,000 lances; 1,500 cutlasses; 15 boxes U. S. standard weights and measures. Thrown into the riverI 70 boxes fixed artillery ammuni- tion; 200 kegs powder; 16 hogsheads salt. A large amount of cot- ton, say 1,800 bales, was disposed of by (-eneral Sherman; the manner of disposition was not made known to me. About 1,500 pounds tobacco was taken by my order and distributed among the troops generally. Besides the 1)roperty above enumerated, a large lot of miscellaneous articles, such as harness, sa(l(lles, canteens, tools for repairing war materials, caps, & c., was burned in the building sit- uate(l in the square near the State house. I remained in command of the post until November 24, when, by order of 1Xh~jor-Genera1 Slocuin, I rejoined my brigade, beiug relieved by colonel commanding Nine- teentli Kentucky Volnnteers, name not known. Marched same day fourteen miles to near Bluff Creek. November 25, marched to ilebron; on this march the command was delayed six hours by the burning of the brmdge over Buffalo Creek by the eueniy; whole distammee marched, nine muiles. November 26, marched to Tennille Station, on time Savami- nalm and Macon Railroad, via Sandersville, the advance of the brigade skirmishing sli9-htly with the emmemy. Altimough mny reoiment advanced in line of battle for several mniles, the enemy retreated so rapidly before the advance guard that my regimeut did not coiime up with him. At Tenmmille mny regimnent was placed directly on the railroad without going into camp an(l destroyed the road until dark amount destroyed, say half a mile. November 27, marched twelve mniles to I)avisborough. November 28, conimenced the destruction of the railroad in the morn- ing. Marched thirteen miles, passing throngh Key West, and wemit iiito camp at Spiers Station. November 29, muarched eight miles, destroying railroad track, gomrig into camp near Bostwick. 0mm this days march my regiment destroyed at least two miles of track, besides burnimmg a large lumber amid timber yard, situated on both sides of the track,. an(l extending a quarter of a mile. This yard contained the worked tium- ber for four complete railroad bridges, besides a large quantity of sawed tines and boards. The whole lot is variously estimated at from 1,000,000 to 5,000,000 feet; I think 3,000,000 t~et a fair estiumate. November 30, marched eight miles, crossing time Ogeechee iliver, and went imito camp tIn-ce miles beyond. December 1, marched ten mniles, crossimig Dry Creek ,goi mmg into camp at an early hour. December 2, muarched fifteen miles and went into camp near Jomies Mill Creek. Decemmmber 3, marched fbmmrteeii nmiles, crossing the Milieu and Augusta Railroad. December 4, marched twelve miles, and wemmt into camp near iluntems Mills. l)ecemimber 5, marched three miles and went immto camnp. December 6, marched ten miles toward Springfield. December 7, in arched eleven miles, and went into camup one mile southeast of Sprimmgfield. i)ecemuber 8, marclmed ten miles, and went into camp. I)ecember 9, changed the direction of our march, and took time direct Savannah roa(l. After march immg al)out four miles the enemy were found, strongly immtrenched and ocenpying two small forts directly imm our fromit, entirely covering tIme road over whiclm we had to pass. At this point the First l)ivision, beimmg in the advance, was halted and formed for the attack iim the following order: Second Brigade, Col. E. A. Carman, on the riglmt; First Brigade, Colonel Sel- fridge, in the center; Timird Brigade, Colommel Robinson, on the left. The Second Brigade, in order to gaimm tIme rear of the eneumy, if possible, made a detour to the riohit, mmmovimig by the tlammk a distammee of omme mile, gaining a positiomm imm a rice s~vamnj), througim which the rear of time forts could be reached. My regiment, with the Secommd Massachusett Page 250 250 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Infantry on its right, was formed in line ot battle in the rice swamp; the balance of the brigade was formed on the left, in the woods. An advance was then made, in the above order, for nearly one mile, when the skirmish line became engaged, and the brigade was halted. I remained in this position without orders to advance until the enemy, being hard pressed by the Third Brigade, who had gained the right hank of his position, began to retreat. I then moved on rapidly without orders but the 5W~It1l) was so deep, and the enemy having a good road at his command, it was impossible for us to overtake him. After fol- lowing him a distance of two miles, 1 returned, by your order, and went into camp near the enemys deserted works. The only casualty on this day was one officer, Captaimi Buck, wounded. Three of the eimemy were captured by my skirmish line. Distance marched this day, six miles. December 10, marched at daylight; reached the Charleston and Savan- nah Railroad; halted amid destroyed a portion of the road. The march was resumed until the enemys works were reached in front of Savammnah, when I took np a position with the brigade in line of battle about three- quarters of a mile from the enemys outer line of works. l)istance marched this day, teit miLes. December 11, at 3 oclock, by your order, I reported to brigadier-general commamiding corps, from whom I received instructions to take my command to Argyle Island, in the Savannah River, secure the rice and other public property there, and to make a reconnaissance on the South Carolina. shore. I succeeded in crossing two coml)anies that night. December l~, crossed the balance of my commamud this mornimug. While crossing 1 discovered three rebel steamers coining down the river. Two of them proved to be gun-boats by almost imnuediately becoming engaged with our battery on shore. 1 immnediatehy deployed two companies to intercept them if possible, and 1)ick off tlmeir gunners. Before the skirmishers could reach a position where their fire could be effective, the two gnu-boats had retreated, making their escape up the river. While changing their positioiis the two g~i~-boats had both run into the third vesselwhich afterward l)roved to be the armed temuder Resolutewhich had so disabled her that her wheels could not revolve. When my troops came up to liner, the officers amid crew had lowered the snmall boats and were busily engaged in getting imi their baggage ammd other l)ersonal property, amid would have succeeded in making their escape in a few minutes more. After one volley from my men, resulting in the wounding of tIme exec- utive officer of the boat, the vessel was surrendered, immediately boarded by my troops, aimd brought to the Georgia shore. The follow- ilig is a list of the arms and supplies found on board, which, with the boat, were turmued over to Captain Whittelsey. corps quartermaster, by or(ler of Brigadier-General Williams, commall(hing corps: 10 short Whitney rifled muskets, saber bayonets, accouterments cOml)lete; It) Whitney rifled muskets with bayommets, aimd accouterments; 5 barrels flour; 6 barrels beef; omme-hinalf barrel molasses; omme-hahf barrel vinegar; one-half barrel rice; 6 bags coff~e; 3 boxes bread; 1 box candles; 504) pounds bacon. The prisoners, exceh)t tIme wouumde(l officer who was left omm board in care of the surgeon of tIme boat, consisting of 5 officers and 19 men, were turne(l over to Maj. W. I~arks, l)rovoSt-marshmal of corps, by order of brigadier-general comnmanding corl)5. Decemuber 13 amid 14, the entire timne was occupied in collectimig boats, reconumoiterimig the island, and securing the rice and such other property as could be found, of which time following is a partial list: 5 large barge loads of rice iii sheaf; 260 bushels threshed rice; 9 bands sirup; 14 munles and 2 horses. Time mules, horses, and sheaf rice were turumed over to corps quartermas- ter and the balance of the stores were used in subsisting the negroes Page 251 CHAP. LVI.~ THE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 251 and otherwise disposed of by the corps quartermaster. In addition to the above, about 2,000 bushels of rice was threshed and left in the mill on the island. December 15, in compliance with previous orders from brigadier- general commanding corps, I crossed five companies of my regiment to the South Carolina shore, driving the enemy from the plantation known as Izards, and made a reconnaissance in the country for about two miles, gaining much valuable information respecting the couutry and roads. After a stay of about one hour the encmy made their appearance in my front in strong hirce. Being entirely isolated from the balance of the army, with limited means of transportation, I deemed it prudent to withdraw my small force and return to the island. This I accomplished successfully, although vigorously pressed by the enemy. I immedi- ately reported to the brigadier-general commanding corps, and applied for a force sufficient to enable me to recross to the South Carolina shore in safety, and to occupy time plantation, if thou glint necessary or desir- able. The Second Massachusetts Infantry was sent mime, but before I could effect a recrossing the boats were ordered to the Georgia shore to transport your entire brigade to the island and South Carolina shore. Time arrival of the balance of the brigade with the colonel comumnauding relieved me of the command and responsibility of the expedition. December 19, I recrossed my regiment with the ~alance of the brigade, under the orders of the colonel commanding, to the South Carolina shore and occupied my original position. December 20, skirmnished all day with the enemy. December 21, the brigade recrossed to the island, my regiment guarding the rear; the enemny pressed my regi- ment hard at times, but we finally succeeded in gaining the island, late at night, without loss. December 22, crossed from the island to the maimi Georgia shore, marched seven miles, and went into camp in my present position. My casualties in this expedition were 1 man killed and 3 wounded. The total number of casualties during the campaign are as follows: Killed, 1 man; wounded, 1 officer aimd 3 men. I beg leave to report, in conclusion, that so excellent have been the arrangements adopted by the colonel commanding brigade for foraging, and so ample the facilities given the men while on the road to gather potatoes, turnips, and other vegetables at the resting places, that I have experienced no difficulty durimig the entire march in subsisting my mnemi and animals on the country, obtaining all that was imeeded, excepting cofihe and sugar. I beg leave also to report that on the march twelve bales of cotton were discovered, which had been secreted in the woods, amid were burned by mny orders. Respectfully submitted. WILLIAM HAWLEY, Colonel Third Regiment Wisconsin Veteran Volunteer Infantry. Capt. J. H. LINDSAY, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 2(1 Brig., 1st Dir., 20th Army Corps. IIDQRS. THIRD WISCONSIN VETERAN VOLUNTEER INFTY., Necr ASwvannah, Ga., I)ecember 12, 1864. COLONEL: 1 have the honor to transmit the following report of the operations of my command, resulting in time capture of the C. S. steamer Resolute: At 7.30 oclock this morning I received information that two rebel gun-boats, with their tender, the Resolute, were steamimig down th Page 252 252 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. ICHAP. i~vi. river. I had previously crossed over to the island with four companies of my command, and immediately on hearing the fiiing between the boats and the battery on shore, deployed two companies for the purpose of intercepting the boats and picking off the gunners. Before we reached the bank, however, the gun-boats had made their escape. On reaching the bank I found the Resolute aground on the island and in a disabled condition, caused by coming in contact with the gun-boats, both of which strack her while changing position. The captain of the Resolute was making every effort to escape with the small boats, and would have succeeded had we been fifteen minutes later. I called out for them to surrender, when the captain surrendered the boat and all on board as prisoners of war. I put the two companies on board, and used every means to bring her to the landing. On making an exami- nation of the boat I found that she had received two shots from Bat- tery I, First New York Artillery, resulting in no material injury, one having passed through the wheel-house and tla other through the mess room. I also found a quantity of stores and small-arms, aim inventory ot which will be forwarded with this report. I examined the baggage belonging to the prisoners, and allowed them to retain all that was of a private nature. The executive officer of the boat was wounded by my command before the surrender, an(l was left in charge of the sur- geon on board. On receiving your order ~I turned over the boat, with all its stores, to Captain Whittelsey, assistant quartermaster Twentieth Army Corps, and the prisoners, consisting of 5 officers and 19 men, to Maj. W. Parks, provost-marshal Twentieth Army Corps. Inventory of stores and arms captured on board the C. S. steamer Resolute December 12, 1864, by Col. William hawley, commanding Third Wisconsin Veteran Volunteer Infantry: 5 barrels flour, 6 barrels beef half a barrel molasses, half a barrel vinegar, half a barrel rice, 6 bags coffee, 3 boxes bread, 1 box candles, 500 pounds bacon, 10 short Whitney rifled muskets, with saber bayonets and accouterments com- plete, and 10 Whitney rifled muskets, with bayonets and accouter- ments. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM HAWLEY, Colonel Third Regiment Wisconsin Veteran Volunteer Ii~fantry. Lieut. Col. II. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Twentieth Army Corps. No. 91. Report of Col. James S. Robinson, Eighty-second Ohio Infantry, com manding Third Brigade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST DIV., TWENTIETH CORPS, Near Savannah Ga December 28, 1864. LIEUTENANT :* On the 15th [November], at 7 a. in., my brigade filed out of its en- campments and made its final exit from the city of Atlanta. Behind l]5 all means of communication and supply had been utterly destroyed, and the town itself was a blazing ruin, abandoned alike by citizens and ~For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX. Part I, p. 659 Page 253 C~. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 253 soldiers to the harsh fortunes of war. Before us lay a vast stretch of couiitry, containing no organized army, yet thoroughly infested with enemies clear to its natural boundary, the oceami. There was nothing left fbr us to rely upon but ourselves, our leader, and the God of battles. Moving out on the Decatur road, my brigade passed the village of De- catur at 2 p. um. Our first days in arch terminated near Stone Mona tam, about fifteen miles from Atlanta. Early on the morning ot the 16th I was directed by General Jackson, commauding divisioii, to take my bri- gade and conunence (lestroying the Georgia railroad at a point about half a mile beyond my encampment. Extending niy brigade alomig t1~ track, I succeeded in thoroughly destroying about two miles of it by 10 a. mu. After this was accomplished, having been assigned as rear guard of the corps, my command awaited the passage of the troops and trains. This was not completed until 5 p. 1mm., at which hour my brigade marched from Stone Mountain. My column crossed Stone Mountain Creek at 10 amid Yellow River at 11.30 p. in. It encamped on the left l)ank of Yellow River, near Rock I3ridge Post-Office, about midnight, hmavimig marched about seven miles. My brigade, still the rear guard of the corps, marched from its camp near Rock Bridge at noon omi the 17th. It crossed No Business Creek at 1, Big Haymmes Creek at 5, and Little Ilaynes Creek, at Summers Mills, at 7 p. m. My column was greatly detained by the trains, which moved very slowly, owing to the heavy loads carried in the wagons and the difficult places in the road. My command did not get into camp until one hour after midnight, when it reached a poimit near Flat Creek. The distance marched on this day was about thirteen miles. My brigade marched, following the Second Brigade of the First I)ivision, and charged with the protection of about 100 wagomis, at S a. ma. on the 18th; it passed Alcovy Mountain at 11, and crossed Alcovy or Ulcofrmuhiachee River at 11.30 a. in. At 1.30 p. m. it reached Social Circle, on the Georgia railroad. II ere it emerged into a fine, level, open coumitry with a good road which enabled us to muove along briskly. At 8p. m. my comumand passed through Rutledge Station, and at 10 p. m. encamped five miles west of Madisomi. My brigade muarched at 7.45 a. m. on the ensuijig morning, November 19, heading the division and corps, and ummencunibered with wagons. At 10 a. nm. it passed through the village of Madison and marched in a southward course omi the Eatonton roa(l. At 12 m. it encalnpe(l three immiles south of Madison. The aggiegate distance marched omi this and the preceding day was about twenty-five miles. 0mm the 20th my com- muand mesumed its mmmarch at 7.15 a. in. It umoved in rear of time division au(l was charged with the piotectiomi of about 300 wagons, including the pontoon and a large portion of the Second l)ivision train. Con- siderable rain had fallen, which remidered the road heavy and retarded time niovement of the colunum. It crossed Sugar Creek at 11.30 a. mu., and Clarks Fork at 1 p. m. The country now beino traversed was quite fer- tile, and afforded aim abumidance of all kinds of supl)hies. A considera.ble number of fine horses amid mules were also brought in. By this means the transportation of my brigade was gmeatly iniproved. At 7 p. mu. my command reached a point about four miles and a half from Eatonton and emicamped. Time distance marched this day was about twelve miles. On tIme 21st the morning dawned dark and lowering, with occasional gusts of rain. My brigade was again assigned to duty as rear guard of the corps. A battery of artillery accompanie(l my comnumand, which was unencuni- bered with wagomis. Our nmarch coaliimeimce(l at 11 a. in. At 1 p. in., the column being teml)oralily delayed by the bmea.king of a tongue in an artillery carriage, the rebel cavalry appeared in our rear an(l mad Page 254 254 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. a slight demonstration. It was driven off precipitately by the Sixty- first Ohio Veteran Volunteers, which constituted my rear guard. At 4 p. in. my command marched through the village of Eatonton. At 9 p. in., the column having been tediously delayed, I discovered, upon iiivestigation, that about sixty wagons had become almost hopelessly stalled in a sort of quagmire. My troops were at once put to work lightening out these wagons and were thus employed for about two horns, when the march was resumed. My brigade encamped six miles from Eatonton at midnight, having marched ten miles and a half. At 7.15 a. in. on the 22d my march was colltinue(l. My connmand moved in the rear of the division and was charged with the protection of about 400 wagons. The weather had now cleared ui~, but the column still moved slowly. My brigade did miot cross Little River until 12.80 p. in. From that point the march was resumed again at 8 p. mu. on the direct road to Milledgeville. My brigade marched into Milledgeville at 7.30 p. in. Passing through the town, and crossing the Oconee River on a wooden bridge, it encamped on the left bank at 9 p. in., having marched seventeen miles. On the 23d my brigade remained in camp near the Oconee bridge. This days rest enabled the foraging parties to collect a considerable quantity of provisions and a number of horses and mules. At 6 a. m. on the 24th my brigade resumed its march, leading the division and corps. Being charged with the (luty of a(lvance guard it was unencumbered by the trains. Our line of march pursued the Oco- nee through a sparsely settled, broken, ~)iney country. My column crossed Beaver Dam at 11 a. in., and at 12.15 p. in. crossed Town Creek. At 3 p. in. my brigade crossed Gum Creek an(l at 4.30 p. in. encamped on the ridge beyond. The distance marche(l on this (lay was about fifteen miles. On the 25th, at 6 a. in., my brigade continued its march, again being the vanguard of the division and corps. Bluff Crcek was 1)asse(l at 7, and the column reached Hebron Post-Office at S and Buffalo Creek at 9 a. ni. Over Buffalo Creek, a wide, swampy stream, was a series of bridges, nine in number, all of which had l)een (IestrOyed by the enemy. Accordimig to directiomis, I (letaile(l a regiment, time Oiie hundred and first Illin& s Volunteers, to assist iii their reconstruction. While this work was going on, the rebel cavalry made a (lemnonstratioll on the pickets on the left bank of the stream. At time instance of the genemal commnan(hing division, I at ommee (lisI)atclled five companies of the One hundred and first Illimmois Volunteers to re-enforce the picket- line. The enemy at once witlmdrew, and the bridges were completed without further annoyamice. The remainder of my brigade crossed Buf- falo Creek at 3.30 p. m.,an(l the emitire conmmall(l, exce~)ting the five companies of the One hundred and first lhhiuois Volunteers left to cover a 5i(le road, pursued its march towar(l Sandersvihle. Having ascended a plateau three miles from the creek lively skirmuishimmo was overheard toward the front, which prove(l to be the cavalry a(lvance engaging the rebel forces under Wheeler. As the emmemy appeared to be charging down the road I was directed by the general commanding (hivision to throw my command immimediately forward iIIt() limme, exten(hing across and coverimmg the road. My troops came up promptly omi the double- quick, an(I were in a very short space of time advancing in a steady line of battle. Contemporaneously with this movement a hue of skir- inish ens, consisting of two companies from the Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers and two from the Eighty-second Ohio Veteran Volunteers, had been throwim forward, covering the front of the brigade. My line of battle had not advamiced but a short (listammee when,it hot beimmg deemed necessary to push it ammy further, it w-as, by direction of th Page 255 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 255 (~eneLd1 coiuman(ling division, llalte(l and the troops put in camp. My skirmish line, however, under direction of two officers of my staff, Capt. A. E. Lee, acting assistant adjutant-general, and Capt. Cyrus flear- rick, acting ai(le-(le-canlp, steadily advanced, an(l without hesitation an(l without loss drove the enemy from a commanding position from which he had charged our cavalry half an hour previously. Not con- tent with this my skirmish line pursued the enemy and drove him through woods and open fields one mile farther, when it was, by my order, halted and withdrawn. On the ensuing day, the 26th, my brigade resumed the march at 6.15 a. in., following the Second Brigade, which was in advance of the divis- ion and corl)s. This brigade at 7 a. m. commenced skirmishing with the enemys cavalry at the point where it had been left by my skir- nmishcrs on the evening previous. Soon afterward a detachment of rebels having been discovered observing our movements on a side road leading to our right, 1 was directed to send a regiment to drive them off. I immediately (hispatched the One hundred and first Illinois Vol- unteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Le Sage. This regiment (hiarged the enemy and drove him precipitately to the woods, capturing one prisoner, and discovering about 100 bales of cotton, which were burned, including the cotton gin. The regiment then rejoined the brigade, which had by this time resumed its march toward Sam idersvihle. My column reached that village without any further opposition at 11 a. in. Here the trains being left in charge of the Third Division, the troops of the First l)ivision, in- cluding my brigade, inarche d unencumbered toward the C eorgia Central Railroad, three miles distant. My comnman(l struck the road at Temi- nille Station at 3.30 p. in. amid inimediately began the destruction of the track. About one mile was thoroughly (lestroye(l by my brigade by sundown. My trool)s were then encamped near the station. The entire distance marched on this day was nine miles. On the 27th mny brigade marched in the center of the division at 7 a. in. The route from Ten- nille pursued a secluded, untraveled road on the south side of the rail- road. The troops being uneucumnbered, marched rapidly and made JacksonsChurch by 11 a. m. At 4.30 p.m. my commuamid crossed Will- iamnsons Swamp Creek and arrived at Davisborough. Here the troops were encamped for the night, having marched about seventeen miles. At (layhighit the next niorning, November 28, my brigade marched down the railroad track three miles and commenced its destruction. Inasmuch as the track bed for the muost part ran through a (hifficult swamp much of it was composed of trestle-work and bridges, all of which were effectually destroyed. Whemi the track was laid upon a road bed the rail 111)011 one side, with the stringer attached, was unfas- temied by mucans of levers and lifted over agaimist the rail on the other side. Rails and dry wood were then piled on top amid the whole set on fire. The heat would soon spring the rails, still attached to the wooden stringers, into a variety of contortions, amid the work of (lest unction was completed. Thins my brigade, in con nectiomi with the other brigades of the division and alternating with them, l)roceede(l dowii the track, destroying mile after mile. At night-fall mimy comnmnand reached Spiers Turnout, and there encaniped, having marched elevemi miles and destroyed four miles of track during the day. At 7 a. m. oii the 29th my brigade returne(l about two miles hI) the track amid completed its destruction down as far as Spiers. The statiomi house and other railroad fixtures were then burmied or otherwise effect- ually destroyed. At 11 a. m. my command marched singly omi the wagon road from Spiers. The corps and division headquarters train Page 256 256 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. were placed in its charge, but it was otherwise unencumbered. My column crossed Great Coat Creek at 12.30, and arrived at Bethany at 1.30 p. m. At 3.30 p. m. it crossed Boggy Girt Creek, and at night- fall encamped two miles and a half from the Ogeechee River. By direc- tion of the general commanding division, I sent forward a regiment (the Eighty-second Ohio Veteran [olunteers) with orders to proceed as far as the Ogeechee, an d there encamp for the night, picketing well the bank of the river. On the morning of the 30th the regiment seut for- ward to the river was withdrawn and rejoined the brigade, which marched up the right bank at 8.30 a. in. At 1 p. m. the column crossed Mill Creek and halted for dinner on Blakes plantation. At 4.30 p. m. my command crossed the Ogeeclice River, at a point two miles below Louisville. The bridge here had been ineffectually destroyed by the enemy, and was repaired by my pioneer corps. My brigade pushed forward and encamped two miles beyond the river at nightfall. It marched on this day about fifteen miles. On the morning of l)ecember 1 the march was resumed in the direc- tion of Birdville. My brigade moved in the center of the division and in charge of the division train. However, it did not leave its encamp- ment near Louisville until noon. During the afternoon it crossed Big, Dry, Spring, and Bark Camp Creeks, all small, swampy streams of clear water. The march was very much retarded by the boggy places in the road. My command did not get into camp until half an hour after mnidnight,when it reached a point about four miles from Birdville, having marched thirteen miles. On the 2d my brigade resumed its march at 9.45 a. , leading its division and following the Second Division, which was in advance. At noon it reached Birdville, and at 8 p. m. crossed Buck Head Creek at Buck Head Church, and there encamped. The dis- tance marched on this day was about fifteen miles. Shortly after pass- ing Birdville, having received reliable information that a planter named Bullard, living in that neighborhood, had made himself conspic- uous for his zeal in recapturing and securing prisoners from our army escaped from the rebel authorities, I dispatched an officer with author- ity to destroy his outbuildings and cottoim. He accordingly set fire to the corn cribs, cotton gin, cotton presses, and a warehouse containing ~50,000 worth of cotton. These were all comisumned, and tIme owner admonished that a repetition of his offense would bring a similar fate upon his dwelling at the next visitatiomi of our army. On the 3d my brigade marched at 7 a. m. on the Sylvania road; my command occu- pied the center of the division, and was unencumbered with wagons. My brigade crossed the Augusta branch of the Central railroad at noon. The Michigan Engineers having been charged with the destruction of this road, my command pressed forward and encamped near Horse Creek at 4.45 p. m. The distance marched on this day was about fif- teen miles. On the 4th my brigade, having in charge the entire divis- ion train, the pontoon trains, time corps supply train, and the artillery ammunition train, marched at 9 a. m. The colummi crossed a number of small, swampy streams, and passed through a sterile, sandy country, bountifully timbered with groves of pine. At 12.30 p. m. it crossed Little Horse Creek, and at 5 p. m. Little Ogeechee Creek. At 6 p. m. my troops encamped one mile beyond the Little Ogeechee, havimig marched thirteen miles. On the 5th the First Division, which had pre- viously been in advamice, dropped to the rear, allowing the other two divisions to go ahead; this consumed most of the day. My brigade marched at 5 p. In.; the road was very sloughy, greatly detaining the trains. The column advamiced only about three miles and a half, when it encamped at 10.30 p. m Page 257 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 257 On the 6th my brigade, with a battery of artillery, was detailed as a rear guard for the corps. It marched at 9.30 a. in., unencumbered with wagons. The line of march pursued the Springfield road through a moderately fertile country. My foraging parties, which were now kept out daily, were enabled to obtain a considerable quantity of sweet potatoes and fresh meat. Ample supplies of forage were also obtained along the road. My command marched on this day about twelve miles, and encamped at a point about six miles from the Ogeechee River, six from the Savannah, and sixteen from Springfield. On the 7th our march was resumed at S a. m. My brigade had charge of about 300 wagons, consisting of the (livision and the cavalry trains. The road soon entered the Cowpens Branch Swamp, a low, flat, boggy surface, about three miles in wi(lth. The wagons easily cut through the surface and many of them became completely mired. In tlle3aeantimne a drizzlimig rain set in, which had no tendency to improve time roads. In many instances the animals had to be entirely removed from the wagons and the vehicles drawim out of the slough by the troops. By 1.30 p. in. the trains were all gotten safelythrough the swamp and the column moved slowly on. At S p. m. it reached Turkey Creek and Swamp, and at ~0 p. in. encammiped one mile above Springfield. T he distance marched on this day was fifteen miles. At 8 a. in. on the morning of the 8th my brigade crossed Jacks Creek and arrived at Springfield. My coin- mand was now unencumbered and marched in advance of time division, following the Second Division. Our course followed the Monteith road about nine miles, themi turned to tIme right and pursued a southwesterly direction for a distance of six miles, which brought us to our encamp- ment, having marched in the aggregate fifteen miles. The march was resumed at 8.30 a. m. on the 9th. My brigade followed time Second, the First being in the advance. At 10 a. in. time column struck the main road leading to Savannah. Cannonading and musketry were now occasionally heard in the advance. It began to be evident that a considerable force of the enemy had gathered in our front and meant to oppose our onward march to Savannah. At 3 p. in. my bri- gade reached Monteith Swamp, where the First and Second Brigades had already encoumitered a considerable force of tIme enemny. The rebel forces were so disposed as to completely command the only practicable passage of the swamp, which was by the main road. Their artillery, wlmich they were disposed to use freely, was so posted as to completely sweep the road, amid was covered by earth-works. The advance of time First Brigade against the enemys front, together with that of time Second Brigade agaimist his left flank, having thiled to dislodge himn, I was instructed by the general commanding division to sen(I two regi- ments around the left, with directions to push through the swamp if possible and turn the enemnys right. I immediately dispatched time Thirty-first Wisconsin and Sixty-first Ohio Veteran Volunteers, the whole commanded by Colommel West, of the Thirty-first Wiscomisin Vol- unteers, to whom I gave the instructions above repeated. Making a de- tour of about one mile to the left Colonel West formed his command ~n line of battle amid plunged into the almost impenetrable swamp. It was found impossible to get.a horse over time mniry surface, and officers and men were alike comupelled to go on foot. Time swamp, which was about 400 yards imi width, was fimmally passed amid the troops emerged into an open field skirted on time farther side by timnber, in wlmich time emmemny lay concealed. The point at which he was struck was far in the rear ~f Imis main position, which was completely turned, yet he was not wholly 17 U RYOL XLI Page 258 258 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. unprepared to meet Colonel Wests forces, upon whom lie opened fire at their first appearance. The fire was returned with a good will, but only three volleys were needed to complete the overthrow and effect the pre- cipitate retreat of the enemy. Colonel West now cautiously advanced his line, fearing an ambush. He soon discovered that the rebel forces were all gone, and quietly occupied two fine redoubts, containing eighty abandoned knapsacks, well packed with clothing, & c. The remainder of my brigade, except the Eighty-second Ohio Veteran Volunteer In- fantry, which had been sent to the support of Colonel West, now crossed the swamp by the main road, and the whole encamped near the rebel redoubts. This little affair, in my judgment, reflects great credit npon those concerned in it, and I take this occasion to express my apprecia- tion of the skill and promptitude with which Colonel West handled his troops. I regret to say, however, that this aiThir cost us one man killed an(l four wounded. My brigade marched again at 7 a. in. on the 10th, in the center of the division, the Second Brigade leading. The road was excellent, and devoid of all obstructions. My brigade struck the Charleston and Savannah Railroad at Monteith Station at 10 a. in., and soon afterward commenced destroying the track. By 11.30 a. in. half a mile of the track was thoroughly destroyed by the brigade, and the column resumed its march, now on the direct road to the city of Savanmiah. By 2.30 p. m. my command reached the fifth mile-post from the city. About one mile in advance of this the enemy had already been encountered, strongly intrenched, with artillery in l)osition. It was evident that this was the main line of the defenses of the city. My brigade immedi- ately went into position on the left of the Second Brigade, which had already formed in the demise forest oii the left of the road. My left flank joiiied the right of the First Brigade. Pickets covering the line were at once thrown forward, but no detnomistration was made upon the enemy. My troops encamped in the position thus taken. Omi the 11th my command was thrown forward and to the left about 400 yards, and the troops again encamped in their position. At 11 p. in., by direction of the general commanding division, I detached the One hundred and first and Eighty-second Illinois and Sixty-first Ohio Veteran Volunteers, the whole under the command of Lientenamit-Colonel Le Sage, of the One hundred and first Illinois Volunteers, and sent them to the rear, to be used in guarding the trains of the corps. On the 13th I was directed to move the remainder of my brigade to the rear, to cover the approaches to the trains. At 3 ~ m. my eiitire comninand was posted, covering the different roads coming from the rear. My line was about three miles in extent, joining the pickets of the Twenty-second Wis- consin Volunteers on the right, near the Savannah River, and those of the Fourteenth Army Corps on the left The One hundred and forty- third New York Volunteers was l)laced near the junction of the Tweedside, the Potters plantation, and the Savannah roads. The Eighty-second Ohio Veterami Volunteers was placed about three-q narters of a mile farther to the right, on the Potters plantatiomi road. The One hundred and first Illinois Volunteers and Sixty-first Ohio Veter~ Volunteers covered the Savannah road, near Cherokee Hill. The Eighty-second Illinois Volunteers covered the line of the Charleston and Savannah Railroad. The Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers was placed three-quarters of a mile south of Cherokee Hill, on a road leading in that direction. The positions thins chosemi, excepting those of the two regiments first namned, were covered by substantial breast-works. A section of artillery, which reported to me on the 14th, was posted o Page 259 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 259 the Savannah road and was covered by a redoubt. My brigade remained in the position just described without incident worthy of note until the 19th. On that date, by permission of the general command- ing division, I sent out a foraging expedition, consisting of twelve companies of infantry, two from each regiment, aud eight wagous. My instructions to Lieutenant-Colonel Le Sage, commanding the detach- ment, were to proceed about four miles north of Monteith Station, to obtain all the forage and supplies he could, and to develop the strength and positiou of a hostile force reported to be in that neighborhood. The party returned at 3 p. m. without having obtained either provisions or forage. It had encountered the enemys outposts and driven them back to within one mile and a half of his main camp, capturing one prisoner. I)uring the night of the 20th, according to direction, I detailed a regiment, the One hundred and forty-third New York Volunteers, to cross to Argyle Island and there go into position, covering the flank of the Second Brigade, which had crossed to the South Carolina shore. On the morning of the 21st it was discovered that the enemy had evacuated the city aiid defenses of Savannah. The One hundred and forty-third New York Volunteers therefore rejoined the brigade on the morning of the 22d. On the 23d miy command moved back toward the city and encamped on McAlpins plantation, on the right bank of the Savannah River. The position assigned me was on the right of the Second Brigade and one mile above the city of Savan- nah. Here my troops erected comfortable quarters, in which they still remain. During the extraordinary campaign which has terminated, my com- mand marched over 350 miles, completely destroyed 9 miles of railroad track, burned a station-house, several water-tanks. and a large quan- tity of wood and railroad lumber; burned 12 cotton-gins and presses, and 250 bales of cotton; captured 5 serviceable horses, 42 serviceable mules, 460 head of cattle, 200 sheep, 500 hogs, 12 barrels of molasses, 1 barrel of whisky, 50,000 pOun(ls of sweet potatoes, 10,800 pounds of rice, besides a vast quantity of flour, meal, bacon, poultry, and other promiscuous kinds of provisions. TIme quantity ot forage captured it is difficult to estimate, but it is safe to say that it amoumited to not less timami 130,000 pounds. Excepting time articles of bread, coffee, and sugar, my troops subsisted almost entii~ely from the country. The animals also were fed almost exclusively upoim what was obtained from the same source. I take pleasure imi expressing my hearty commendation of the soldierly behavior of the officers and men of mny command during this long and arduous campaign. The fatigues and privations of the march were borne with cheerfulness. The heavy labor of assisting trains, destroy- ing railroads, building bridges, repairing roads, & c., was performed with alacrity, and when the voice of danger sumnmoned, every soldier sprang to his post with enthusiasm. The commanders of my regiments and the officers of my staff deserve and are temidered mny sincere thanks for their ready co-operation in every laudable undertaking, and their earnest zeal in carrying out my orders. But tIme soldiers aimd officers of my command need no praise fromn me. Their own achievements are their highest encomium, and the united admiratiomi of their countrymen their best reward. These are alread theirs, and neither my pen minor voice can add anything to themn. Iii conclusion I have time honor to add tIme following list of tIme regi- ments composing my brigade and the officers comumnanding thmemn during the campaign: Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers, Col. Francis II. West Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Eighty-second Ohio Veteran Volunteers, Lieut. Col. David Thomson; One hunired and forty-third New York Volunteers, Lieut. Col. Hezekiali Watkins; One hundred and first Illinois Volunteers, Lieut. Col. John B. Le Sage; Eighty-second Illinois Volunteers, Maj. F. II. iRols- hansen; Sixty-first Ohio Veteran Volunteers, Capt. John Garrett. The officers of my staff were as follows: Capt. A. E. Lee, acting assistant adjutant-general; Capt. Benjamin Reynolds, acting assistant inspectorgeneral; Capt. F. S. Wallace, topographical engineer; Capt. Charles Saalmann, acting commissary of subsistence; Capt. W. T. George, acting assistant quartermaster; Surg. II. K. Spooner, surgeon- in-chief; Capt. Cyrus ilearrick, acting aide-de-cainp; Capt. Myron H. Lamb, acting aide-de-camp; Lieut. Charles M. Lockwood, acting assistant provost-marshal. The following casualties and losses occurred in my brigade during the campaign: One enlisted man killed in action, 4 d eseited,1 missing in action, 4 injured in destroying railroad, 2 captured while foraging, making an aggregate loss of 16 [12] enlisted men. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. S. ROBINSON Colonel, Corn nwnding. Lieut. GEORGE ROBINSoN, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division. No. 92. Report of Maj. Ferdinand H. Roishausen, Eighty-second Illinois Infan try, of operations September 4December 23. IIDQR8. EIGHTY-SECOND ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Are~~ Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit to you the report of operations of my regiment since the entrance of Atlanta up to the present moment. On the 4th of September, 1864, we did strike tents at the Chatta- hoochee River and entered Atlanta at 11 a. in., where we pitched camp on the north side of the city, at the old inner rebel works, wherewe stopped until September 12, when we were detailed to take charge of the military Confederate prisoners till October 4, 1864. I)uring October 16, 17, 18, and 19 we were ordered to go on a foraging expedition in charge of Colonel Robinson. On the same we loaded all wagons taken along with corn and straw; also eatables, as sweet potatoes, pork, and beef. Another foraging expedition we participated in, under the coin- mand of Brigadier-General Geary, commanding Second Division, Twentieth Corps, on the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th, at which there was a similar result. We laid up till we received (by an order from Gen- eral Sherman) marching orders. It was on the morning of the 15th of November when we started on (as we know now) for Savannah. We encamped this night on the other side of Decatur, a little towim on the Atlanta and Augusta railroad, where we arrived at 8 p. m. On the 16th we left at 8 a. in., and com- menced to tear up and burn the railroad until 4 p. in.; arrived in camp at 12 p. m. Marched November 17 and 18. On November 19 we passed Madison, and camped at 1 p. in. Marched 20th, 21st, and 22d, and arrived at Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, at 9 p. m. Laid up November 23, and marched November 24, 25, and 26, and destroye Page 261 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 2fl here Station No. 13 of the Augusta and Macoii IRailroa(l. November 27, marched to Davisborougli, Station No. 12. November 28, marched and tore up railroad for ten miles, and campe(l at Station No. 11. November 29, marched and tore up two miles of railroad. Marched from December 1 to 8, inclusive. On I)ecember 9 marched two miles, and had to reconnoiter the surrounding country and flank a small body of the enemy hovering around our front; arrived in camp at 6 p. in. On the 10th we struck the Savannah and Charleston Rail- road, destroyed and burned it up near the bridge over the Savannah River, aud encamped four miles and a half from Savannah. December 11, took position, but were withdrawn again at 10 oclock that night to protect the trains from the rear. Remained here from December 12 to 22, inclusive. December ~3 we Savannah, wim ere we arrived , left this camp and moved into at 1 p. m. and are now encamped on the west side of Savannah. Here I must remark yet, that during the last campaign our foraging parties have supplied the regiment with a plen- tiness~of sweet potatoes, poultry, fresh and salt l)ork, beef; forage, and other eatables for men and animals. We obtained about ten horses and sixteen mules, with which we completed our regimental teams and turned over the rest to the provost-marshal of the brigade. At the same time we l)icked up eleven negroes, whichi supplied the places of officers servants and company cooks on the latter end of the campaign; so my corn- mnand has never lived any better since in service as while this tramp was made. Cotton and cotton presses were also destroyed whenever found and an order from a superior officer was given. Officers and enlisted mnemi behaved themselves, amid were as obedient to or(hers as usual. F. II. ROLSilAUSEN, Major, Comm aR ding Bighty-secon d Illinois Volunteers. Col. JAMES S. ROBINSON, Corn dg. Third Brigade, First Dirision, Twentieth Corps. No. 93. Report ~. Lient. Col. John B. Le & tge, One hundred and first Illinois Infantry, ~t operations & ptem ber 2December 23. HDQRS. 101ST REGT. ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, & vannah, Ga., December 25, 1364. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the One hundre& and first Regiment of Illinois Volunteers from the occupation of Atlanta by the U. S. forces to the capture of the city of Savannah: From the 2d of September, when Atlanta fell into tIme hands of the Union Army, until the 21st of September, the regiment which I have the honor to command remained quietly in canip. On the 21st it was detailed on duty in the fire department, and remained omi that duty (hurimig the whole timne that Atlanta was occupied by our forces. On the 13th of October the regimnemit went ~vith the brigade on a for- aging expedition to Flat Shoals, on which expedition the regiment was gone four days and loaded thirty-two wagons with forage. Again, on the 26th of October, the regiment went with the brigade on a foraging expedition to Berkshire Post-Office, remaining four days, and, in con Page 262 202 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI junction with the Eighty-second Ohio Veteran Volunteers, loading sixty wagons with forage. During the remainder of the time until the coin- mencement of the recent expedition the regiment remained quietly in camp. Oii the morning of the 15th of November the regiment left the city of Atlanta, or rather what was left of the city of Atlanta, and started on the great raid through Georgia, and marched on that day to Stone Mountain, a distance of about fourteen miles. On the 16th, duriiig the morning, it tore np and destroyed about half a mile of the railroad track on the Atlanta and Augusta road, and then marched to the Yellow 1tivei~, about fifteen miles, reaching camp about 2 a. in. On the 17th we marched about fifteen miles, encamping in the country about 1 a. m. On the 18th we marched, passing through Social Circle about noon, and proceeding nearly to Madison, making in all about fifteen miles. On the 19th we marched through Madison and proceeded on the Eaton- ton road, making about ten miles. On the 20th we marched toward Eatonton about ten miles, reaching a point about four inile~ from Eatonton. On the 21st we marched through Eatouton aiid on toward Milledgeville, ]naking about fifteen niiles. On the 22d we marched about eleven miles, to Milledgeville, and on the 23d remained there. On the 24th marched toward Hebron, about fifteen miles. On the 25th the regiment was the leading regimeiit of the corps. We marched about four miles until we reached Buffalo Creek, where the series of bridges were found to have been destroyed. The regiiiient was engaged for awhile in repairing these bridges. About noon a ~)arty of rebel cavalry having been stirred lip across the creek the right wing of the regiment was sent across to attell(l to them. About 2 oclock, the bridges being completed, we crossed over, where one of the companies rejoined us, and the other four were left to guard the crossing until the Second Division of the corps should come over. With six companies we marched ahead about two miles hirther when a brisk cavalry skirmish was stirred up in front, anti a large number of ~ made a rapid retreat from the front. The regiment was promptly formed in line of battle to the right of the road, and then advanced about 200 yards, when we were ordered to encamp for the night. On the 26th we marched toward Sandersville. After proceeding about two miles the regiment was sent to the right about half a mile, to dislodge somne guerrillas, which we did; and we also destroyed a gin and about 100 bales of cotton, after which we rejoimied the column and marched to Sandersville, amid thence to Powers, on the Macon and Savannah Rail- road, where we emicamped for the night, having marched about twelve miles. On the 27th we marched to Davisborough, a distance of about twenty miles, having to make a detour to avoid a swamp. On the 28th we marched along the railroad to Spiers; tearing up the track to within three miles of that place. I am unable to state how much the regiment tore up during the day, but should say that of eleven regiments engaged in the destruction of seven miles it did its full proportion. On the 29th we went back about three miles and finished the destruction of the railroad to Spiers, doing about one-sixth of the destruction. We then marched in the direction of Louisville, about twelve mimiles. On the 30th we marched to where the Third Division was in camp, about two miles and a half east of Louisville omi the eastern side of the Ogeechee River, having made a march of about eighteen miles. On the 1st of December we marched in time direction of Millen, about fifteen miles, reaching camp about 1 a. m. 0mm the 2d we marched about fifteen miles to Buck Head Church. 0mm the 3d we marched about fiftee Page 263 C~1AP. LVI.] TIlE SAVANNAh CAMPAIGN. 263 miles, passing about three miles north of Milieu, aud iuarchuii iii the (lirection of Sylvania. On the 4th we marched about twelve miles. On the 5th marched two miles and a half and ~vent into camp about 11 p. in. On the 6th marched about eight or ten miles toward Springfield. Oii the 7th seven coml)auies were detached to go back after forage, with wagons, which they loaded, and rejoined the regiment that night, which had marched about ten miles toward Spriiigfield. On the 8th we marched to Springfield, four miles, and from there toward Monteith, about twelve miles. On the 9th we marched toward Monteith Station, on the Savannah and Charleston Railroad. About 2 p. in. we reached a swamp where the rebels had obstructed the road with felled timber, and commaitded time road with artillery placed in a couple of redoubts on the other side. The Sixty-first Ohio Veteran Volunteers and Thirty- first Wisconsin Volunteers of our brigade were sent to the left to wade the swamp and flank the rebel position. This they did splendidly. At the first fire, which they opened, the rest of the brigade rushed fbrward to their assistaimee, but they had completed the task and held the forts, the rebels, unfortunately, making good their retreat. We camped for the night around tIme forts, having marched about eight miles. On the 10th we marched to Monteith Station, where we tore up the railroad, (omupletely destroying about twice the length of the regiment, amid then marched to where the rebel line of works around the city of Savannah confronted usa distamice of about nine miles. Here we went into position. Late in the evening the regiment was sent omit to hold a road, while the Forty- sixth Penusylvaim ia Veteran Volunteers proceeded to the river on a reconnaissance. On the 11th we changed position, moving fimither to the left. About 9 p. in. I was ordered, with my own regi- muent and the Eighty-second Illinois Volunteers and Sixty-first Ohio Vet- eran Volunteers, to proceed to the rear of the train, and guard the traimi, against which time rebel cavalry under Wheeler were said to be (lemnonstrating. I reached the point designated about 1 a. m. and wemit into positiomi. We remnaimmed here until the 13th, when the rest of the brigade came out, amid, with a slight change of position, we wemit into camp, building a strong line of breast-works. Here we remained until the 23d, when we moved to our present position. As to the number of horses, mules, and cattle captured by the regi- ment, I have no very correct idea. We captured no horses, probably three or four mules, amid as to cattle, I have no idea. We foraged a great deal of beef. We captured and turned into the brigade corn- uuissary about twenty head of cattle, and in additiomi to that I should estimate tIme number of cattle foraged by the regiment for their own use at about fifty head; but it is mere guesswork. We captured large numbers of hogs, sheep, and various kinds of poultry. We lived almost wholly upon what we foraged, excepting sugar amid coffee and occasional issues of hard bread. We lived wholly upon the country and, with but one or two days exception, hired, I might say, for soldiers, sumptuously. As to forage, our horses were subsisted wholly from what we gathered on tIme march, and they have growmm fat from it, for they had all they could eat. As to negroes, I should place the numuber picked up by time regimnemit at about forty. 1mm conclusion, I would state that so far as the regiment is concerned time whole expedition was. a splendid afihir. I feel glad to say that I have not lost a man, killed or captured, and only three wounded by the accidental falling of railroad iron upon them while engaged in tearimig up the trackone of them seriously, the others only slightly. And Page 264 264 OPERATIONS IN 8. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI would take this occasion to return my thanks to all, both officers and men, for their ready obedience to my orders and for their good, soldierly conduct on the whole march. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. LE SAGE, Lieutenant- Colonel, Cowdy. 101st Regiment illinois Volunteers. Capt. A. E. LEE, Actg. Asst. A~jt. (Jen., 3d Brig., 1st Dii., 20th Army Corps. No. 94. Report of Lient. Col. Ilezekiah Watkins, One hundred and forty-third New York Infantry. HDQRS. 143D REGIMENT NEW YORK VOL. INFANTRY, Near Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1861. CAPTAIN :* On the morning of November 15 the regiment broke camp and started on the campaign just ended. The effective force at this time was 19 commissioned officers and 244 muskets, also 14 unarmed recruits for whom arms could not be procured previous to starting. The eftective force at present, 19 commissioned officers and 243 muskets. One enlisted man supposed to be captured while out with a foraging detail. The number of animals captured is as follows: 11 horses, 12 mules, amid about 100 cattle. There were also about 25 negroes picked up on the march. During the time from starting from Atlanta, November 15 to Decem- ber 21, there were issued to the command of Government rations, viz, 13 days hard bread, 20 days coffee, 15 days sugar, 26 days salt. There was also issued 1,000 pounds of grain for the animals, the remainder needed by the regiment being foraged from the coumitry. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. WATKINS, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Capt. A. E. LEE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 95. Report of Capt. John Garrett, Sixty-first Ohio Infantry, of operations September 4December 22. IIDQRs. SIXTY-FIRST OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Savannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Sixty-first Ohio Volunteers from the occupation of Atlanta to the capture of Savannah by the National forces: Emitered Atlanta September 4 and occupied the intrenchments of the enemy. On October 6 was assigned to a position on Peach Tree Creek road. During our stay at this place accompanied two foraging expeditions, For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see vol. XXXIX, Part I, 661 Page 265 CHAP. LVL~ THE ~AVANNAII CAMPAIGN. 265 the first, under command of Colonel Robinson, to Flat Rock, Ga., and the second, under command of Brigadier-General Geary, to Stone Moun- tain, the object being to procure subsistence for the men and animals of the corps. Started on the recent campaign November 15, following the line of the Augusta railroad as far as Madison, where we turned southward and struck the Milledgeville railroad at Eatonton, and entere(I Mil- ledgeville November 22. Resumed the march November 24, aud on the 26th struck the Georgia Central Railroad and destroyed a portion of the track near Station No. 13. November 27, iniioved eastward along the line of the Georgia Central Railroad, and on the 28th assisted in destroying the track and bridges between Davisborough and Spiers Station. Resumed the march on the 29th, and on the 30th crossed the Ogeechee River. No incident of importance transpired till December 9, when I was ordered to assist Colonel West, Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers, to capture two small forts of the enemy, erected to command the road at a point where it passed through a dense swamp fourteen miles from Savannah. We penetrated the swamp to the left of the road, and when within 100 yards of the enemy they opened upon us with musketry. A charge was ordered, and we pushed forward over a formidable abatis and entered one of the forts, amid at the same moment the colors of the Thirty-first Wisconsin were planted upon the other; the emiemy escaped with his artillery. I had one luau severely wounded iii the engagement. December 10, advanced and took position before Savannah. December 11, moved to the rear amid took position near the railroad, seven miles from Savannah, for the protection of the wagon trains, where we re- mained until the capture of the city. I)uring the campaign my command captured 10 horses and 30 mules, amid drew forage from the country equal to twenty days subsisteiice. A large quantity of cotton was destroyed, but as much of it was not in bales it is impossible to state the exact amount. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN GARRETT, Captain, Comdg. & xty-ftrst Ohio Veteran Volunteer It~fan try. Capt. A. E. LEE, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 20th Army Corps. No. 96. Report of Lient. t7ol. David Thomson, Eighty-second Ohio Infantry. HDQRS. EIGHTY-SECOND REGT. OHIO VET. VOL. INFTY., Near Savctnnah, Ga., December 27, 18G4. CAPTAIN :* On the 15th day of November the regiment left its camp in Atlanta and entered upon the campaign whmich ended with the capture and occupation ot Savannah by our forces. During the campaign the troops were principally subsisted off the country through which we J)assed. On the 16th we reached and commenced destroying the rail- road near Stone Mountain. My regiment here destroyed about two miles For portion of rel)ort (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, se& Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 662 Page 266 266 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. Lvi. of the road. But small torces of the enemy were met, an(l until our arrival before Savannah it was necessary for the regiment to take a position in line of battle but twice. The first tinme was miear Sanders- yule, on November 25. We met the enemy late in the afternoon. The fighting (which was nothing more than skirmishing) was principally done by our advance cavalry. The Third Brigade was in advance and formed in line of battle. We encamped iii hue, and the next morning the Second Brigade took the advance, the Third Brigade following. The enemy made but very little opposition, and we had no difficulty in occupying Sandersville. From this place we moved to Tennille Station, No. 13, and destroyed about half a mile of the railroad. On the 27th we reached Davisborough Station, on the Georgia Central Railroad, and early on the morning of tIme 28th commenced destroying the rail- road. We destroyed about three miles of the road and at night went into camp at Station No.11. TIme Third Brigade at this l)oimmt was detached from the corps for the purpose of guarding the corps train. On the 30th we crossed the Little Ogeechee several miles above the railroad, in consequence of the destruction of the bridge, amid encamped near the east bank of the river. We marched and crossed the Augusta branch railroad on the 3d day of I)ecemnber, leaving MilIeu to onr right. Oum the 5th our regiment was sent two miles from camp, with orders to destroy two muihls. I de- stroyed time mills amid returned to camp. From this time until the 9th nothing worthy of note occnrred. On the 9th we found the eneniy in considerable force in our front. They were in a strong position, had fortifications with two i~icces of artillery, amid their front and right was protected by a swamnp. The Thirty-first Wisconsin and Sixty-first Ohio were thrown forward, and succeeded in passing through this swamp and attacked the enemy from the rear and right. The Eighty-second Ohio was thrown forward as a support, but before my regiment suc- ceeded in passing through this swamnp the Thirty-first Wisconsin and Sixty-first Ohio had attacked aud routed the enemy. On the 10th, hav- ing reache(l Monteith a station on time Savannah and Charleston Rail- road, the Third lirigade was ordered to commence and effectually de- stroy as much of this road as possible. The Eighty-second Ohio Reg- uncut destroyed about 300 yards of the road amid also the station- house. The samne day, having reached the enemys lines in front of Savannah, the brigade took up a position, with three regimemits in line of battle, with the Second Brigade on the right. My regiment was on time front line, connecting with time Thirty-first Wisconsin on the right and the One hundred and forty-third New York on the left. On the 11th the brigade was moved a short distance to the left, the regiments occupying time same positions in himie. On the 13th tIme brigade was moved about three miles to the rear, where a second or rear line was formed for the purpose of protecting the rear. The Eighty-second oc- cupied the right of this line, my picke1~s connecting with those of the Omme hundred and forty-third New York on mny left. My command occupied this position until the surrender of Savannah and its occupa- tion by our forces. The regimnent entered its present emmcampment on the 23d of December, connecting on the right with the Oime hundred and forty-third New York and on the left with the Thirty-first Wisconsin. During the campaign my command has captured 13 head of horses, 25 head of mules, 30 head of cattle, 150 he ad of hogs, 35 head of sheep, 200 pounds sugar, 4 tons fodder, 200 bushels of corn, 200 bushels of potatoes, 125 bushels of corn meal, 1,000 pounds of flour, 160 gallons of molasses, and chickeims and turkeys immumuerable Page 267 C~p. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 267 My command also captured 30 negroes and destroyed in all six miles of railroad and 150 bales of cotton and burned two cotton gills. I am, captain, very respectfully, D. THOMSON, Lieutenant Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Capt. A. E. LEE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 97. Report of Col. Francis H. West, Thirty first Wisconsin Infantry. HEADQUARTERS THIRTY-FIRST WISCONSIN VOLUNTEERS, Savannah Go December 25, 1864. , ., CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of operations of this regiment from the time of the occupation of Atlanta to this date: During the occupation of Atlanta nothing of especial interest occurred in the reglinent. It was engaged in the ordinary guard duty and in drilling and preparing for a new campaign, and also furnishing heavy details to work on fortifications. It twice during the time accomn- panie(l foraging expeditions to the vicinity of Stone Mountain and Yel- low River; once, under command of Colonel Robinson, commanding Third Brigade, and once, under command of General Geary, command- ing Second Division, Twentieth Corps. On each of these occasions some 800 wagon-loads of forage were obtained. Of the campaign from Atlanta to Savannah the history of the regi- ment is so inseparably connected with that of the brigade to which it belongs, that it is difficult to make a special report of its oper- ations. Leaving Atlanta at 7 a. in. November 15, with effective en- listed men and officers, our march was contimmuous, triumphant, and almost uninterrupted, through the rich and well-settled districts of Georgia, by the way of Decatur, Social Circle, Madison, Milledgeville, Eatonton, Sandersville, Millen, Louisville, and Springfield, to within five miles of Savannah, where we arrived on tIme 10th instant, followed by a large number of negroes, which had been gradually accumulating as we advanced through the country, but as none of them were especial followers of my regiment, I cannot claim to have brought in any certain number. It was noticeable that they were all very munch delighted at the approach of the armny, although but few of them had ever seemi a Yank before. There was much appearance of wealth among nearly all the in- habitants living on the line of our march and we found great abund- ance of corn, beef, mutton, sweet potatoes, poultry, molasses, and honey along the whole route, upon which the regiment subsisted entirely, with the exception of about ten days~ rations of hard bread and full rations of sugar, coffee, and salt, which were issued immediately pre- vious to and during the march. We also captured 10 very large, fine mules and about 30 inferior mules and horses, which were used in packing supplies, and were subsisted, as were our private and public animals, from forage we obtained from the inhabitants. During the march we, in company with the balance of the brigade, assisted in destroying a large amount of the Georgia Central Railroad in the vicinity of Stone Mountain~, Spiers Station, and Jonesborough, and also of the Charleston railroad at and near Monteith. The amount destroyed by my regiment I am unable to give Page 268 268 OPERATIONS IN S. 0., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. Great attempts were ma(le by the enemy to impede our progress by destroying bridges, felling timber in the road, & c., but this caused but little delay, as our efficient pioneer corps soon cleared away all obstruc- tions and rebuilt the bridges. We met with no resistance in force until we arrived at Turkey Roost [or Monteith] Swamp, fifteen miles from Sa- vannah. This is an almost impenetrable morass, many miles in extent, densely covered with brush and vines, interspersed with deep sloughs. Across this the road has been built. On a little elevation on the opposite side, at a place known as Harrisons field, and immediately commanding the road across the morass, which is about 500 yards wide, and which had been very heavily obstructed, the enemy had built two strong redoubts, which were defended by artillery and about 50() infantry, with which they resolutely disputed our farther progress. The First and Second Brigades of our division bad been sent around to the right (which seemed the most feasible way of crossing the morass), with instructions if possible to flank the enemy and dislodge or capture them. Finding that they were not likely to be immediately successful, I was directed by Colonel Robinson, commanding brigade, to take my regiment, numbering 500 present (the immediate command of which devolved upon Lieutenant-Colonel Rogers), amid the Sixty-First Ohio, numnberimig about 100 men, under command of Captain Garrett, and make a similar attempt by way of the left. Quickly moving around about half a mile to the left and on to the border of the morass, the line was formed for attack by placing the Sixty-first Ohio on the right and the Thirty-first Wisconsin on the left, with instructions to dash through the swamp by the right of companies, comning into line the moment they emerged on the open ground imi vicinity of the fort. This the men did with great spirit and determination, struggling through to within about 300 yards of the forts where an open swamp extemided down to within fifty yards of the forts, time last fifty yards being heavily covered with abatis. Emerging into this opening they formed instantly under a heavy fire from the enemy, and, delivering a steady volley upon tIme enemy, they dashed upon the works with such impetuosity that the enemy, becoming pammic-stricken, fled in great confusion, abandoning much of their camup and garrison equipage ~tnd clothing. The colors of the Thirty-first Wisconsin were almost instantly flying from the parapets of the fort. Shortly after time brigades that had gone to the right succeeded in passing the muorass and came up ; also thebalance of our brigade, which Colonel Robinson promptly sent to mny support on hearing the firing. The loss of my regiment in this affair was 1 killei and 3 wounded. We escaped with so smuall a loss omi accoumit of the enemy firing too high. Loss of the enemy umikuownsaid to have been 14. Through me the regiment, together with the Sixty-first Ohio, received the public thanks of Major-General Slocum, commanding Left Wing, Army of Georgia, General Wilhiamns, commanding Twentieth Army Corps, and of Colonel Robinson, comnmuanding brigade, for the handsome manner in which they executed the affair. As all iii the command behaved equally well 1 cami mention no names. I, however, here wish to make mneiition of the gallant conduct and effi- cient service rendered on this occasion by Captains Wallace and Hear- rick, of Colonel Robimisons staff, who were detailed to assist mime iii the em lterl)rise. During the siege of Savannah, from the 10th to the 21st of De- cemnber at which time the enemy evacuated Savannah, the regi- muemit was engaged in the ordinary siege (luties, building works Page 269 Ciw~. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 269 & c., without any engagement with the enemy or casualties therefrom. On the 23d we moved in and took position on the bank of the Savan- nali River about two miles above the city, and are now engaged in pre- paring for future operations. Since arriving near Savannah we have had but very limited supplies of rations or forage, and we are now suf- frrino much for subsistence, the men receiviiig little else than small rations of rice, and our public and private animals almost nothing at all. It is probable that this is owing to the difficulty of landing sup- plies from the fleet. The health and spirits of the men were never better thaii during the past campaign, the average daily number requiring medical attendance being about ten. The casualties during tIme campaign were 1 man severely injured while destroying railroad, 1 killed, and 3 wounded by the enemy, and 3 captured while foraging, 2 of whom have since escaped and returned to the regiment. No sick were left on the road. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. IL WEST, Capt. A. E. LEE, Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. 3(1 Brig., 1st Div., 20th Corps. No. 98. 1?eport of Brig. (lies. John W. Geary, U. & Army, commanding & cond Dicision. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, TWENTIETH CORPS, January 6, 1865. COLONEL :* November 13, in accordance with orders received on the previous night, my division, with the exception of one regiment, the One hun- dred and eleventh Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, broke camp at aim early lmour in the morning, and at 7 oclock moved out upon the De- catur road, following the First Division. Shortly after passing beyond the old line of rebel works I was obliged to halt, omi account of the detention of the troops and trains in my front, amid several hours elapsed before the road was sufficiently clear to allow of my advance. iResnming the nmarch I moved on, keeping well closed upon the rear of the First Division, and halting for diimner near I)ecatur. After passing through the village I took advantage of every field to move the head of my column parallel to the train of time l)reCeding division. The head of my column went into camp near Stoime Mountain about ill p. m. The march during the day was continually delayed by halts and (letemitiolis, caused by the miserable character of the animals in our train. The roads traveled were bad; the weather was beautiful. The distance marched during the day was fifteen miles. November 16, I broke camp at 8 a. in. and moved out in advance of the corps. Crossed Yellow River, at Rock Bi-idge, about 3 p. in., and went into camp three nmiles beyond, having marched during the day ten miles. The marching to-day was necessarily slow, owing to the bad charal~ter of tIme roads and bad condition of our animals. The country through which I passed For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 667 Page 270 270 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. was for the most part poor and undulating, and east of Yellow River the road crosses a number of swampy streams and steep ridges. Novem- ber 17, moved from camp again at 5 oclock, in advance of the corps. Encamped for the night on the west bank of the Ulcofauhachee River, having marched seventeen miles. The roads traveled were very good and the country traversed was fine. November 18, moved at 5 a. ni., my division still in the advance. Crossed the Ulcofauhachee River, struck the Georgia railroad at Social Circle, east of which place we destroyed considerable of the track, and passed through Rutledge Sta- tion at noon, near which place we halted for dinner. At this place destroyed the depot, water-tank, and other railroad buildings, and tore up and burned the track. Encamped for the night within two miles of Madison, having marched eighteen miles. The roads from Social Circle to Madison were excellent, and the country was much superior to that previously passed through. Forage was abundant on every side, and during the day we made captures of horses and mules. November 19, in accordance with orders from the general command- ing the corps, my command was detached and moved at 5 a. in., unen- cumbered with wagons, leaving my whole train to be brought on with those of the other divisions. I passed through Madison before day- light, and moved along the road parallel to the Georgia railroad, halt- ing for dinner at Buck Head Station, where I destroyed the water-tank, stationary engine, and all the railroad buildings. After marching one mile beyond the station I again halted and destroyed a portion of the railroad, also a large quantity of cord wood, and other railroad material. At Buck Head Station my advance exchanged shots with the enemys scouts. I sent on a detachment in advance of the main body to drive these scouts and whatever there might be of the enemys cav- alry in the vicinity across the Oconee, and to burn the railroad bridge across the river; also another detachment several miles above to destroy a large mill and the ferry-boats across the Appalachee. Both of these parties were successful. The railroad bridge, which was a fine structure, about 400 yards long and 60 feet high from the water, and was approached by several hundred yards of trestle-work at each end, was thoroughly destroyed. At Blue Spring I halted and set my troops to work destroying railroad. Here at night encamped on the planta- tion of Co]. Lee Jordan, on which I found 280 bales of cotton and 50,000 bushels of corn stored for the rebel Government. All the cotton and most of the corn was destroyed. hi addition to this my command destroyed elsewhere during the day 250 bales of cotton and several cotton gins and mills. I also destroyed in all to-day about five miles of railroad and a large quantity of railroad ties and striiig timbers. November 20, moved at 7 a. in.; the weather rainy, the roads very deep and swampy. Leaving the railroad I moved toward the Oconee, which was reached two miles below the railroad bridge, aiid then moved down parallel to the river to Parks Mill, which was burned. The bridge across the river at this place had been previously washed away, and ferry-boats were used at the crossing; these I destroyed. Some annoyance was experienced as we moved along the river-bank from squads of rebel cavalry on the opposite shore. They were, however, soon driven off. A small party sent out from my command crossed the river near the burnt bridge and went on foot seven miles to Greemis- borough, driving a small force of cavalry through the town and taking possession of it. After remainin in undisturbed possession of the towit for several hours, and having convinced the inhabitants that the most of General Shermans army was close by with designs upo Page 271 S THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. CHAP. LVI.] 271 Augusta, this little party returned safely, recrossing the river in canoes. I learned the next day that the enemy were tearing up the Georgia railroad at Union Point. seven miles east of Greeusborongh, apparently being possessed with the idea that General Shermans army was moving on Augusta and using the railroad as it came. From all I could learn, then and since, it is my opinion that my small command could, at that time, have penetrated to Angusta without serious opposition. Leaving Parks Mill and having crossed Sugar Creek I came to Glades Cross- Roads, where I took the one leading to the left. Moving one mile and a half on this road I again turned to the left, on a smaller one, and encamped at dark near the large tannery and shoe factory and store owned by James 1)enham, one of the most extensive establishments of the kind in the South. Most of the leather stock and goods had been carried off; a few boxes of shoes and leather were found hidden in a barn and were turned over to the quartermasters department for issue. My skirmishers and foraging parties during this (lays march spread through all the country between the (Jconee and the route of march taken by the rest of the corps. A large number of splendid mules an(l beef cattle and some horses were captured, and the troops lived xvell on the produce of the country. Distance to-day, ten miles. November 21, a heavy rain fell all last night and continued through- out to-day, rendering the roads very deep an(I the streams much swol- len. After entirely destroying Denhams tannery and factory, I moved at 8 a. m. on the road to Philadelphia Church, reaching which I took the Milledgeville road, crossed Crooked Creek, and encamped at the forks of the road, one leading to Dennis Mill and station, the other to Wallers Ferry, at the mouth of Little River. A very heavy, cold rain fell all day, and marching was quite difficult. Tbe country passed through was a rich one and supplies were abundant. Distance marched, eight miles. The rain ceased toward night and the air became very cold. Among our captures to-day was Colonel White, of the Thirty-seventh Teiinessee Regiment. He had been in commamid of the post at Eaton- ton, and in attempting to escape from the other coIn mu of our troops fell into my hands. November 22, the weather was extremely cold. Moved at 6 a. in., taking the road to Dennis Station, havimig previously ascertained that it would be impossible for my command to cross Little River below the crossing of the railroad, there being no bridge and the ferry-boats hay- ing been destroyed by the inhabitants. Crossed Rooly Creek at Den- nis Mill. The stream here was quite large, amid over it I constructed a foot bridge for the infantry, fording it with horses, artillery, and auibu- lances. Burned the in ill and a cotton gin an(l press in vicinity, destroy- ing a large amount of grain and cotton. Moved on to the railroad, which I m-eached at Dennis Station, and where I found the rear of the train of the other divisions just passing. Moved on in rear of the train to Little River, where I received orders to a(lvance imnuiediately to Milledgeville. Accordingly crossed time river on the pontoon bridge, 1)assing time trains with much difficulty, and reached Milledgeville at dark, the other divisions having already encamped. Having passed through the town I crossed the Oconee on the large bridge and went into camp on the left of the First 1)ivisiou, with my left resting near the river. Marched during the day twemity miles. Weather to-night intensely cold. November 23, remained in camp. In the afterneon sent out my Third Brigade to the Gordon and Milledgeville Railroad, where it re- mained until dark, destroying track Page 272 S 272 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. November 24, in accordance with orders, moved at 7 a. in., but, find- ing the road completely blockaded with trains, I did iiot get my column fairly in motion until 10 oclock. Just l)efore dark crossed Town Creek, the bridge over which was very bad, and ~veut into camp ne~ir Gum Creek, the First Division being encamped about three-quarters of a mile in advance, the Third Division about the same distance in my rear. The road traveled, although rather hilly, was in the main good. Marched during the day fourteen miles. November 25, moved at 6.30 a. in., and marched about half a mile, when I came upon the trains preceding me not yet drawn out of park, and was obliged to halt until 9 oclock, when I moved steadily forward until reaching Buffalo Creek, where I found the troops and trains of the First Division halted. This creek is an extensive, heavily timbered, swampy stream, being nearly half a mile wide where the road passes through it. The stream or swamp is here divided into eight channels,which are spaumiied by as many bridges,varying in length from 30 to 100 feet each. Between these earthen causeways are thrown up. These bridges had been destroyed by the enemy, and were reconstructed by 2 p. in., under the superintendence of Captain Poe, chief engineer on the staff of Major-General Sherman. By dark the road in my front was clear, and I crossed my command, encamping for the night one mile and a half east of tIme creek. The ci-ossimmg in the extreme dark- ness of the night and through the swampy roads east of the creek was a very laborious one. During the night shots were exchanged between my l)ickets and some of Wheelers cavalry. Distance marched, nine. miles. November 26, moved at 6 a. m. After marching about two miles caine up with the trains preceding me, which had not yet left park. Here I parked my trains, being detained for two hours. Marching two miles farther, again found the trains in park, amid the troops of the First Division skirmishing with Wheelers cavalry and driving them through Sandersville. Moved on to Sandersville, where I parked my trains, and having left them under charge of Third l)ivision, proceeded to Tennille (Station No. 13 on the Central railroad). Upon reaching the railroad I moved eastward, destroying two miles of time road, and went into camp near a school-house four miles east of Tennille. One battalion ot Mich- igan Engineers, under Major Yates, rel)orted to me for duty, assisted in the destruction 01 the rails, and encamped with my troops at night. Distance marched, thirteen miles. November 27, in accordance with orders, moved this morning at 7 oclock, destroying the railroad for four miles, to a point indicated, where a road crosses the railroad seven miles from Station No. 13. Fromn here, in pursuance of my orders. I marched to l)avisborough by the most direct road, arid there encamped about 9 p. in. Distance marched, tw-elve miles. November 28, tIme work of destroyiiig the railroad west of 1)avis- borough from the point imidicated above, which was assigned by orders to the First Division, had not been })eLtorIIled, that division hmaviitg missed the route and reached Davisboroughi without striking tIme railroad. Early this morning I received orders to (letach Jones brigade to guard the headquarters traimis to Station No. 11, and with my two other brigades amid a battalion of Michigan Emigineers to destroy the part of the road specified from Davisborougli westward. My orders were executed, and the remaining five miles of road, with a number of bridges, trestle-work and water-tamiks, were effectually destroyed. While my troops were emigaged in this work they wer Page 273 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 273 attacked by a portion of Fergusons brigade of rebel cavalry, who kept up a desultory fire upon us for an hour and a half; and were driven off by my skirmishers. They wounded one of my men and cap- tured four others who were out foraging. The fire of my skirmishers upon them was more effective, killing three and wounding a number. The country through which the railroad passes from No. 13 to No. 11 requires description. It is a continuous morass, kmiowu as William- sons Creek, or Swamp. The stream is quite a large one, running in general direction parallel to the railroad and crossing it many times. The land in the vicinity of both sides is soft and swampy, with demise thickets of underbrush and vines. Through this swamp the railroad is constructed on an embankment of borrowed earth throwit up from the sides, averaging from six to ten feet in height. The superstruc- ture consisted of cross-ties bedded in the earth, with string timbers pinned to them upon which the iron rails were spiked. The mode of destruction was to tear up, pile, and burn the ties and string timbers, with the rails across, which, when heated, were destroyed by twisting. Shortly after dark I returned to Davisborough and encamped there for the night. Distance traveled by a portion oC my command to-day, fif teen miles. November 29, moved at 6.30 a~. in., following the main Louisville road for seven miles to Flemings house; there turning square to the right by a small road, moved eight miles to Spiers Station (No. 11), which I reached at 1 oclock. After a short halt for dinner moved on, following the road toward Station No. 10, and encamped about 7 p. in. on the east hide of a small creek which crossed the road six miles from Station No. 11, the camp of the First Division being about one mile and a half in advance of mine. The roads traveled to-day were generally good amid quite dry and hard west of Spiers Station. East of that place there was comisiderable swamp and marshy ground. The country through which we passed on the Louisville road was excellent, the plantations being large and the buildings fine. After leaving that road the country is poorer and appears to be newly settled. Distance traveled was twenty-one miles. November 30, muarched at 6 a. in., and reaching the emicampment of the First Divisiomi found the troops had not yet left. At 10.30 we fol- lowed that division north toward Louisville, leaving Jones brigade, which was themi about three hiiles and a half distant, at the railroad bridge across the Ogeechee, to destroy that and the wagon bridge across the river, amid then to follow to Louisville. After haltimig a few hours for diiiner and to repair the bridge over the Ogeechee, which had been partly burned by the rebel cavalry, we crossed the river and encamped at dark two miles beyond, on the east side of Big Creek, on a high hill overlooking miles of the coumitry, and two miles and a half south of Louisville. The country on both smdes of the Ogeechee is an extensive swamp, with thick, tangled growths. These swamps, however, have good sandy bottomns, and it was not difficult to pass through them. The distance marched was ten miles. December 1, moved at 7 a. ni., my division leading, following the road toward Millen. My advance was preceded by the Ninth lllimiois Moumited Infantry. Crossed Big, Dry, Spring, and Bakers Creeks l)assing through the camp of Carlins division, of the Fourteenth Corps. west of Bakers Creek, and encamped one mile and a half froni Bark Camup Creek. The country passed through on this days march was very swampy, although the roads in the maimi were very good. The flicihities for forage were miot as ample as on the previous days, the plan- 18 n 11VOL XLI Page 274 274 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYL tations being comparatively few, and although these few bore marks of having been well cultivated, the stock and provisions had been mostly removed. The distance traveled was thirteen miles. December 2, my division, still retainiig the advance, moved at 6 a. in., and crossing Bark Camp Creek moved easterly in time directioii of Buck Head Creek which I reached about noon. The roads traveled were excellent, following the course of a low dividing ridge. Passed butfew plantations; among these was that of Doctor Jones, about five miles west of Buck Head Creek, one of the finest in this part of Georgia. Upon approaching the creek I found a number of rail defenses, which had beemi erected a few days previous during a fight between the cavalry of Kilpatrick and Wheeler. The bridge was destroyed and the enemys pickets fired 111)011 us from the eastern bank. These were soon driven away by a regiment of my command, and the bridge ~vas reconstructed by the Michigan Engineers. I crossed it with my advance at 3 p. in., and encamped on the east side of the creek in the vicinity of Buck Head Church. December 3, my division havimig been assigimed the rear of time corps did not leave camp until 11 a. in., when I nmoved, following closely the rear of the Third Division. Colonel Dustins brigade, of that divis- ion, having been directed to report to mime, was assigned the charge of the train of Kilpatricks cavalry, which was given me to guard. Lieu- tenant Newkirks battery was also under my orders, and was placed in rear of my Third Brigade, which followed the trains. About five miles north of Milieu, and not far from the railroad, tlmere is a prison-pen or stocka(le in which had until recently been confined some 3,000 of our sol(liers. Time stockade was about 800 feet square, an(I iimclosed miearly fifteen acres. It was made of heavy pine logs, rising from twelve to fifteemi feet above the ground; on time top of these logs, at intervals of some eighty yards ~vere placed sentry boxes. 1i side of the stockade, running parallel to it at a distammee from it of thirty feet, was a fence of light scautliitg, sup- ported omi short posts. This was the dead line. About one-third of the area, on the western side, was occupied with a crowd of irregular eartheii huts, evidently niade by time prisommers. In these were lying unburied three of our dead soldiers, who were buried by us. Through the eastern 1)art of the pen ran a ravine with a streamn of good water. The atmosphere in time inclosure was foul and fetid. A short (listance outsi(le time stockade was a long tremich, at time lmead of which was a board, bearimig the inscription, 650 buried here. on rising ground a short distance southeast of time prison were two torts not yet cOmh)heted; southwest of this stockade was a smaller one iii process of construction. This prison, if indeed it cami be desigiiated as suchm, afforded commvincin prOofs that the worst accounts of the sufferimi gs ot our l)risoIIeLs at Ami- dersonville, at Americus, and Milieu were by imo mncans exaggerated. I crossed the railroad about three miles north of Millen. The track at time crossing had been destroyed, and the ties were burmiing, this work haviimg beemi performmied by the trOOl)5 preceding. A short distammee beyond the creek my colummi au(l ti-ains became involved in a long and almost impassable swami). To add to time difficulty niglmt c1o~ed iii before my advance had crossed, and it was with the utmuost labor an(l only by the mumited efforts of myself, officers, and troops that I sue- ceeded in bringing the wagons through. Encamped for the niglmt within three miles of Big Horse Creek, the a(ivallce divisiomm of the C0P~5 beiiing camped on time (,reek. Tue rear of may cohiminim di(l not reach canmp umitil 6.30 a. m. of the 4th. The distammee marched during the day was ten miles Page 275 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 275 December 4, moved at 7.30 a. in., still in rear of the corps, and about noon came up with the Third Division trains in park on the western side of Crooked Run. The eastern side of this stream presents an extensive, level, swampy tract of land, across which trains could not pass until the roads were corduroyed. I found the Michigan Engineers engaged at this work. The last of the Third Division train crossed at dark. I theii crossed my command, and by 11.30 p. ?n. had encamped them about one mile east of the creek, leaving Jones brigade in camp on the other side. The weather contiiiued fine, con utry poor, roads good, excepting through the large swamps at Big Horse Creek and Crooked knit. Distance to-day, four miles. December 5, moved at 6.30 a. m. Crossed during the day Little Horse Creek, south fork of Little Ogeechee, and Little Ogeechee, de- stroying all the bridges after crossing. Much of the route to-day was through swamps, which had to be corduroyed for my trains. At the south fork of the Little Ogeechee I destroyed a large saw-mill. Here we heard what the inhabitants stated to be cannon in Charleston Har- bor, about 100 miles distant. Weather pleasant; country poor. Dis- thnce to-day, twelve miles. December 6, moved at 8 a. in., being the second division in line of march; was obliged to halt twice during the forenoon for the trains preceding to move out of my way. After having moved my command, advanced a mile and found all the trains of the Third Division parked and waiting for a long swamp to be corduroyed. I found but a few men working on the road, and immediately set a portion of my command at work, giving my personal superintendence until it was finished at dark. The Third J)ivision trains then crossed, followed by my entire command. Crossed another smaller swamp a short distance beyond, and encamped my division on good, dry ground. The country was better than usual along the route to-day, and foraging parties were quite successful. Weather warm and pleasant. Distance, seveii miles. December 7, the forenoon was rainy. Moved at 7 a. m. and passed through a succession of terrible swamps, the surface crust of which in many places would not bear up either man or horse. I distributed my eiitire division along the trains, so that each brigade, regiment, and company had its specified number of teams to bring through. With this arrangement, under the personal superintendence and efforts of niyseht, my brigade commanders, and my staff; but little delay was allowed to occur, although so bad were the roads that at oiie time I counted twenty-four loaded wagons sunk to the wagon-beds. Mules in some places went in nearly out of sight. But the trains were kept quite well closed up through all these difficulties. Twice during the forenoon I halted and massed my troops and trains until those preceding me moved on. As we approached Turkey Creek the road improved. About 1 p. m. the rain ceased and the sun shone out warm and pleasant. At 2 p. in. reached Turkey Creek, quite a wide, fordable stream, with good bottom. Across this creek the corps pioneers had constructed a bridge fbr the troops, after cutting away a quantity of timber which had been felled to hinder our progress. By 5 p. m. the divisions preceding had finished crossing. I then crossed my command, moved three miles for- ward on an excellent road, and encamped within half a mile of Spring- field. Distance, fifteen miles. December 8, received orders to march in advance of the corps toward Monteith, leaving my trains under guard of the Third I )ivision. Moved at 6 a. m. on a road running south by east from Springfield. After following this road six miles was ordered t Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYL take a small road branching off to the right, with a view of finding some middle road to Mouteith. Followed this road, general direction west by south, for seven miles, and encamped in the woods about one mile and a half from the Louisville road, on which the Seventeenth Corps was then moving. The looked-for middle road was not found to-day. The roads were generally fair, although we crossed several small swamps. J~ them we found timber felled across the road. This was removed by our pioneers, without delaying the march more than thirty minutes at any one time. Most of our route to-day was through pine forests. We passed a number of plantation houses in these for- ests, and quite a large slll)ply of potatoes, sugar cane, fodder, mutton, and poultry was obtained, it is worthy of note that tile 5W~1ill) water through this region is excellent for drinking purposes, being much superior to the well water. Weather to-day l)leasallt. Distance, thir- teen miles. December 9, moved at 8.30 a. in., following the First Division. At Zion Church we struck the Louisville road, and there turned to the left on the umain road running due east to Mouteith Station. At Monteith Swamp, five miles west of the station, we found the most extensive obstructions yet met with. The swamp is a very large one, about two miles wide where the road crosses it. Throughout this two miles of crossing the enemy had felled great quantities of timber, and at the eastern side of the swamp had erected two small redoubts with flanking rifle-pits. In these works they had two pieces of light artillery, supported by a small force of infantry. The artillery was so posted as to rake the road running throngh the swamp. While the division preceding me was engaged in movements for the dispersion or capture of the force opposing us, my command was halted and massed at the western side of the swamp. Receiving orders to that effect, I sent Jones brigade rapidly forward to support Carmans brigade, of the First Division, which was working its way through to our right of the enemys position. The services of this brigade were afterward found not to be required. At dusk my command was encamped on good, dry ground between th~ two l)ortions of Monteith Swamp. Weather to- day was fine; roads were excellent. Distance, six miles. SIEGE OF SAVANNAH. December 10, order of march in the corps to-day: First, Third, and Sec. ond Divisions, the trains of the emitire corps being guarded by my troops. My command moved at 10 a. mu. ou time direct road to Monteith Sta- tion. This road is broad, solid, and perfectly level. We passed the two redoubts captured last evening, and reached Monteith Station, on the Charleston railroad, ten miles from Savannah, at noon. Here the troops preceding me had destroyed considemable of the track. Having nooned, I moved toward Savannah on the Augusta road, the advance of the Fourteenth Corps coming iii on that road and reaching Monteith as I left it. The advance of our corps having found the enemy behind their fortifications about three miles frommi Savannah, I received orders to encamp for time night near time Five-Mile Post. The trains came for- ward and parked iii the woods in the vicinity of tIme to-day, ten miles. troops. Distance December 11. at 7 a. m. Barnunis bi-igade was sent to recoim- noiter between the Augusta road ~nd Savannah Rivem, to ascer- tain exactly the enemys position iii that directiomi. The duty was quickly perfommed, and their entire line was developed to the river Page 277 Ca& p. Lvi.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 277 where my skirmishers drove the enemy from an advanced work into their main line, capturing a few prisor~rs. At 10 a. m. my other bri- gades were brought up and my line was established along an old rice- field dikemy left (Barnums brigade) resting on the river-bank ,my right (Pardees brigade) extending toward the Augusta road, while Jones brigade was massed in reserve in rear of Barnums. Toward night the left of the First Divisiomi moved forward and connected with my right. Sloans battery reported to me during the afternoon and took position on the river-bank near Jones brigade. My front line was concealed by the woods, with the exception of my left, which lay in open ground within 250 yards of a large work on the river-bank in which the enemy had seven heavy guns. In front of my entire line were open fields, affording a full view of the intrenchments held by the enemy. Immediately in front of these intrenchments were extensive rice fields flooded with water, and between the fields in my front and these flooded rice fields was a canal twenty-five feet wide and five or six feet deep, which also was filled with water. The sluice gates to these fields were all under control of the enemy, as was also the mouth of the canal, be which and my position was the large advanced work before mentioned as being in front of my left. Besides this one the enemy had iii my front three other works, mounted with heavy guns, in their maui line across the flooded rice fields. These guns all opened upon us, keeping up a steady fire throughout the day, but causing very few casualties. No reply was made by my artillery, but my skirmishers were advanced as far as possible and annoyed the enemy considerably. Opposite my left, in the Savannah River, was the upper end of Hutchinsons island, which extends from there down opl)osite the lower part of the city of Savannah. This island contains about 900 acres in rice fields, and on the upper end of it is a large rice mill. A great number of negroes had been left there. On discovering our troops a few of them crossed in canoes. Captain Veale, aide-de- camp of my staff, taking one of these canoes, went alone to the island, and, guided by a negro, walked nearly its entire length, reconnoitered the enemys position along the river, and returned safely, bringing valuable information. December 12, my troops strengthened their breast-works during the night so as to resist the enemys heavy shot. A steady artillery fire was kept up by the enemy all day, causing a few casualties. I had Hutchinsons Island recommnoitered again, but found only a few of the enemys scouts there. December 13, the usual constant artillery fire was kept up by the enemy, their gunners improving in practice. They had posted some sharpshooters in the upper story of a house near their advamiced fort on the river-bank. These sharpshooters annoyed the left of our line considerably. Among the casualties to-day was Lieutenant Ahreets, adjutant of the One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers, amid acting assistant inspector- general, Twentieth Corps, who was killed instantly by a shot from that house while ellgage(l in reconnoi- tering our lines. Last night the enemny landed some troops on Hutchin- sons Island ammd captured a few of our men who had gone there for forage an(l sup~)lies. To prevent such a recurrence Major Hoyt, One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers. was sent to the island to-day with a detachment of forty-seven men to hold the upper part of it. This evening he was re-enforced with 100 men, and the whole were placed under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson, of the One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers. A sunke Page 278 278 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. battery was made to-day on the bank of the river near Jones position, and was occupied by the four 3-inch rifled guns of Sloans battery. These guns commanded the approaches up and down the river; also ranging across ilutchinsons Island toward the South Carolina shore. The supplies of food and forage in our trains being mostly exhausted, our troops were now subsisting upon fresh beef coffee, and rice. Large quantities of the latter had been obtained upon the plantations in this vicinity, and a large rice mill on the Coleraine plantation, three miles up the river from my line, was kept constantly at work. Forage for our aninmals was obtained from rice straw and from the canebrakes. There was also tolerable grazing in the woods. An advanced line of pits for my skirmishers and sharpshooters was constructed to-night in the open field, within plain sight of all parts of the enemys line and within good musket-range of it. December 14. heavy and persistent artillery firing kept up all day from the enemys batteries. The majority of their gnns were 32-pound- ers; one was a 64-pounder, and there were a few light field pieces. Received to-day the official orders announcing the capture of Fort McAllister and oni- communication with the fleet. A small wagon train from my command was sent for supplies. At 10 a. in. one of the enemys gun-boats came up on the high tide in Back River, the other side of ilutchinsons Island, fired several shots into Jones camp, and with- drew. The practice was good. cansin~ three or four casualties. December 15, the usual artillery firing from the enemy. They ex- pended an immense amount of ammunition in my front, averaging over 300 shots per day. No reply was made except by my sharpshooters, who were very active and accurate in theli- fire, causing much greater losses to the enemy than were l)roduced among my troops by their artillery fire. My troops were kept well concealed, and it was impos- sible for the enemy to make any correct estimate of my force. Re- ceived today New York papers of the 10th, being our first Northern news since leaving Atlanta. December 16, no change in position to-day. The usual sharpshooting from our side and artillery firing from the enemy was kept up. It having been decided to place some heavy guns in position on my line, a working party of 100 men from my Second Brigade was employed throughout the night constructing a strong lunette neai- the left of Barnums line. The work was un(ler the superimitendence of Captain Schihhing, topographical engineer on my staff. I had now two regi- ments of Jones brigade, the Seventy-third I~ennsylvania and One hun- dred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers, both under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Jacksomm encamped on ilutchinsons Island, and so intrenched as to hold the upper part of it against any force the enemy might bring. At high tide daily the enemys gun-boats mnoved up in Back River and shelled these regiments. The enemys land batteries also turned their fire in that direction frequently. Very few casualties occurred. December 17, the work on Fort No. 1 (that in the left oJ Barnums line) progressed so far last night that my details were working inside of it to-day, being protected by the heavy parapet. This work was but 250 yards distant from the advance fort on the enemys right and could be plainly seen by them. They expended both artillery and musketry fire on it all day, but without effect. At 11 a. m. a large mail arrived for us and caused universal rejoicing, being our first during nearly six weeks. To-night working details from immy First Brigade commenced constructing Fort No. 2, to be a large lunette for heavy guns in th Page 279 ChAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 279 open field in front of Pardees left. This position being exposed to fire from all the batteries in my front, the xvork upon it had to be done quietly and at night. December 18, the worki rig detail on Fort No. 2 continued un Ul 9 a. in., at which time the heavy fog lifted; that on Fort No. 1 worked all day inside the parapets. All the roads within my lines and to the rear were corduroyed to-day. The usual artillery firing continued by the enemy during the day and also throughout the ni& ht, their principal aim being to prevent our men from working on the forts, in which they did not succeed. To-night a working (letail from my First Brigade began the construction of Fort No. 3 in the opeii field to the right and in advance of No. 2. Details from the Third Brigade continued work- ing on the latter while Fort No. 1 was being finished by details from the Second Brigade. December 19, a conference of the division and brigade commanders with the general commanding the corps was held at 10 a. m. to-day, with view to the adoption of a plan for storming the enemys works as soon as the heavy guns should be in readiness to open fire. Fort No. 1 was finished this evening. The details from First amid Third Brigades continued work on the other forts during the night under a heavy artil- lery fire from the enemy. Several casualties occurred, among them Major Wright, a most valuable officer, commanding the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteers, who was severely wounded by a shell. Sloans bat- tery of 3-inch rifled guns had already taken position in a work thrown up to the right of Fort No. 3 and in the opemi field. December 20, the usual artillery firing and sharpshooting to-day. By this evening we had constructed and in rea(liness for use in the con- templated assault 200 large straw fascines to fill up ditches in front of the enemys works, also a large number of fascines made of bamboo cane. The latter were to be used for bridging the canal by laying them across balks, which were furnished fromn the pontoon traimi for that pur- l)ose. The work on Forts 2 and 3 was well advanced to-day, and would probably be completed to-iiight. Three siege guns (30-poniider Par- rotts) were brought down this evening and inoumited in Fort No. 1. I ascertained this morning that the enemy had comupleted a l)ontoon bridge fromn Savannah across to the South Carolina shore, amid notified the general commanding corps of the discovery. This bridge was about two miles and a half from my left. The usual artillery tiring was kept up by the enemy durimig the day and night. 1)uring t~e night I heard the movement of troops and wagons across the pontoon bridge before mentioned, and sent a report of the fact to the general comnuiand- ing corps. Leaving one of my staff to watch the sounds in that direc- tiomi, I notified my officer of the day and brigade commnammders to keep a vigilant watch upon the enemy, as they were probably evacuating. The details on Forts 2 and 3 continued workimig through the night, the enemy shelling them heavily. December 21, after 3 oclock this mnorning the firing ceased, arid my pickets advancing to the enemys line fommiid them hastily retreating. Having possession of their line of works, with all their cannoii in front of my owmr and the other divisiomis of the corps, I immediately semit a staff officer to notify the general comnmnauding, an(h at the same tinme pushed forward rapidly in the direction of Savannah, hoping to over- take and capture a part of the enemys forces. My skirmishers deployed, and swept over all the grouiid between the evacuated works and the Ogeechee Canal from the river to the Augusta road, while my mai Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. body of troops marched ral)i(lly by the da~ik through MeAlpins plan- tation to the Augusta road and on into the city. Just outside of the city limits, near the junction of the Louisville and Augusta roads, I met the ma.yor of Savannah and~ a delegatioti from the board of alder- men, bearing a flag of truce. From them I received, in the name of my commanding general, the surrender of the city. This was at 4.30 a. in., and I sent immediately another staff officer to announce the surrender to the general commanding the corps. He had considerable difficulty in passing the line of another division of this corps on the Augusta road, but finally convuiced theni that he belonged to the Twentieth Corps and not to the enemy. in the meantime my entire division entered the city of Savannah at early (lawn, and before the sun first gilded the moriiing clouds oar National colors, side by side with those of my own division, were unfurled from the dome of the Exchange and over the U. S. custom-house. Barnums brigade, which led in entering the city, was at once ordered to patrol it, reduce it to order and quiet, amm(l prevent any pillaging or lawlessness on the part either of soldiers or citizens. My or(lers oii the subject were very strict, and within a few hours this city, in which I had found a lawless mob of low whites and negroes pillaging and setting fire to property, was reduced to order~ many millions of dollars worth of cotton, ordnance, and commuissary stores, & c., which would otherwise have been destroyed, were saved to the United States Government, and the citizens once more enjoyed security under the protectioii of that flag which agaimi wave(l over them, exactly four years simice the passage by the State ot South Carolina of the secession act. Two regimnents from Pardees brigade, the Twenty- eighth Penmi sylvania amid Twenty-ninth Ohio Veteran Volunteers, were sent down to Fort Jackson, and early in the morning had possession of it and all the intermuediate and surrounding works. The iron-plated ram Savannah, which lay in the river below the city, threw a few shells at these two regiments as they flung the Stars and Stripes to the breeze from the walls of Fort Jackson. All the other gun-boats of tIme enemy had been fired by them amid burned to the waters edge. On the arrival of the major-gemmeral commanding the Left Wing, I was by his order placed in command of the city. Until nearly 10 a. m. continued firing was heard in the direction of Beauhieu, and supposing that a portion of the enemy might stmll be south of us I kept one brigade under arms during the fhrenoon. Three rebel flags were captured by my command, which wi~ be duly forwarded. The followimig table will exhibit as near as possible the amount of public property taken possession of by my command on the morning of the 21st of I)ecemnber: In forts Tn bemow the eneni ys In city of city, in- Total. front Savannah. chiding line. Fort Jack- son. Steam-boats ~ii 5chooner, onfinished 1 1 Locomotives 13 13 Cars 230 230 Cotton hales 25, 000 25, 000 Rice tierces i 4, 000 4, 000 corn bushels 2, 000 2, 000 Lumber cot 55,000 :iiiii~:~ 55,000 Heavy artillery pieces. - Ii 1 88 95 Light artillery do. - - - 5 1 1 9 Muskets 479 1 47 Page 281 THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. In forts In below the eneuiys In city of city, in. Total. Irout Savannah. eluding line. Fort Jack- soil. Fixed ammunition Artillery rounds Infantry do Shot and shell Powder pounds Other ordnance and ordnance stores Artillery liminess boxes Gun slings Copper boxes1K.~.... Plate tin do. Fuse plugs Sabots Chocks Saber knots Vent covers Tampious (artillery) Saddlebags Infantry I Artillery Bayonet scabbards Waist belts Saber belts leg guards Rifle hoots Shoulder belts Port fires Glass boxes Machine oil kegs Lamp oil ans Parrot oil barrels Tar cans Itoiie coils Soft solder pounds Cotton twine do Laiiterns Equipments (artillery) a Mattiugh White twilled flannel bales Zinc ascs Gun stocks in roughe Nails kegs Fliuts boxes Sabers (artillery) Roller buckles gross White cartrid,,,e.paper ~lu~r~s Brown cartridge-paper remius Horse brushes Curry combs Rolls Friction tubes Priming tubes Appendages, small-arms S Powder flasks fret Slow match coil Sensitive tubes Horseshoe nails pound Friction primers Bullet molds Appendages, artillery a Tarred links Oil bottles Fuse, artillery ammunition Wrapping paper bales Ax helves Spades Picks Buckles, rings, lic. S Hemp twine bags Bayonets Signal rockets Hand spikes, artillery 2,926 44, 000 11,543 1, 650 31 781 :7 31 781 6 6 10 10 14,456 14,456 5,619 5,619 44 44 360 360 126 126 100 100 257 257 440 440 200 200 2,000 2,000 040 940 600 600 125 125 168 168 447 447 1350 1350 I 1 1 ..... 1 I 1 2 2 100 100 35 35 110 110 1 I 1 1 18 38 2J 500 500 4 i .4 50 50 7 I 1,43)0 1400 850 850 100 100 7,500 7,500 1,010 1.010 100 100 5, 400 5, 4tiO 123 123 1,000 1,000 16 16 342 342 500 500 I I )00 1,500 1,200 9 000 2,060 1 50 15 15 10 1 140 140 80 580 iOO 700 2, 524 44, 000 7, 600 1, 600 402 4, 481 50 aNuniber and names unknown. SLarge quantities. Several hundred. CHAP. LVI.] 28 Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. I submit the following estimate of property and supplies approDri- ated or destroyed by my command during the march from Atlanta to Savannah: Taken for use: Taken for use: Horses 84 Potatoes bushels - 2, OOQ Mules 267 Meal acks 250 Corn pounds. - 299, 421 Salt barrels. 10 Corn fodder do - - - - 262, 000 Destroyed: Rice fodder do. - - 88, 000 Cotton bales 2,700 Beef-cattle bead 700 Cotton gins and mills 50 Bacon pounds- 3, 700 Flour mills 11 Sugar do - - - 1, 000 Saw-mills 14 Molasses gallons- 1, 000 Factories 3 The amounts of articles of foi-age and subsistence given above arc those given in the returns of my quartermaster and commissary. In addition to these amounts, there was doubtless as macli more of all such articles taken by the division for use of the men and animals, who subsisted bounteously on the country passed through. Railroad destroyed. Mi1e~. On East Point Railroad Between Atlanta and Chattaboochee 2k Between Social Circle and Madison 1 Between Madison and Oconee Between Milledgeville and Gordon 2 Between Teunille and Davisborough 9 Total 261 Railroad bridges across the Oconee and Ocmulgee, besides a large number of small bridges, trestle, water-tanks, & c.; also large quanti- ties of new ties, railroad timbers, cord wood, & c. The following table will show the casualties an(l losses in my coin- maLl(l during the entire campaign: J)oring the 1)oring siege of march. Savanoali. 0 Killed 1 5 wounded 1 5 53 Missing 9 Total ... 6 70 In concluding this report, I must express my high appreciation of the officers and men whom I have so long commanded, and whose conduct and general discipline on this campaign were worthy of their past well- earned reputation. I desire to return my thanks to the gentlemen com~)osiI1g my staff, departmental and personal. Some deserve special mention for their efficiency and uniform attention to duty. To Capt. W. T. Forbes, assistant adjutant-general, I an~ especially indebted for the faithful performance of every duty devolving upon himn. I must also commend Capt. Eugene Schilhing, my topographical engineer, for his genera Page 283 CHAP. 1St.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 283 industry au(l ability, and especially for his energy and faithfulness while laying out and superintending the erection of forts under the enemys guns during the siege of Savannah. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. GEARY, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lient. Col. H. W. PERKINS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Twentieth Army Corps. No. 99. I?eport of Gol. Ario Pardee, jr., One hundred and forty-seventh Penn sylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND Div., TWENTIETH CORPS, Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864. CAPTAIN :* Tuesday, November 15, at 7 a. m. the camp of the brigade was vacated and the command marched to near Stone Mountain, Ga., and bivouacked for the night. The road taken was that leading through Decatur; distance marched, thirteen miles. Early on the morning of No- vember 16 the march was resumed. The position of the brigade was the third in line, the division being in the advance, and having the trains of the division and the supply and headquarters teams of the corps and wing in charge, was distributed among the wagons, each regiment having a certain number to guard and assist in the passage of obstacles. Yel- low River was crossed at Rock Bridge. From this place the road lead- ing through Sheffield was taken, near which place we encamped for the night; distance marched, twelve miles. November 17, this day we marched through Sheffield amid camped near Social Circle, a distance of about eighteen miles. November 18, marched at 5 a. in., the brigade being in advance, and passed through Social Circle and Rutledge. At the last-named place the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. John Flynn, was temporarily detached from the column to destroy the depot and warehouses belonging to the railroad company, as well as to tear up the track and bend the rails near these buildings, all of which was effectually accomplished. This night we camped near Madison, having marched about eighteen miles. November 19, the command moved at 5 a. m. All the trains were left behind, with a sufficient guard of men unable to make a rapid march, to proceed with the remainder of the corps. We marched to Blue Spring, near the railroad bridge over the Oconee River, at which point a considerable distance of the railroad was destroyed by buriming the ties aiA bending and twisting the rails; distaiice marched, fifteen miles. November 20, from Blue Spring we moved in a direction parallel to the Oconee River to Parks Ferry, amid from thence to Philadelphia Church. November 20 and 21, to near Dennis Station, at which point we struck the railroad leading from lVlilledgeville to Eatonton. From this point we marched (November 22) along the railroad to Little River, amid from there to Milledgeville, through which we passed and weiit into camp on the east side of the Oconee River. November 23, the brigade re- mained in camp this day. November 24, the command moved at 7 a. m. * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 670 Page 284 284 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., ANi) FLA. [CHAP. LVI. in a southeasterly direction, on the roa(I leading to Hebron, and went into camp near Gum Creek for the night; distaiice marched, fourteen miles. November 25, we crossed Gum Creek at 7 a. in., and passed through Hebron, taking the road to Sandersville. Oii reaching Buffalo Creek Swamp the bridges were found to be destroyed. The construc- tion of these detained the column until 5 p. in., when it went into camp on the east side of the creek. November 26, the brigade moved at day- light and marched to Sandersyille, and from there to Tennille, a station on the Central railroad. Near this place we commeimced tearing up time track and destroying it by burning the ties and bending, breaking, and twisting the rails; distance marched, fifteen miles. Noveniber 27, this day the brigade, in company with the balance of the division, were engaged in destroying the railroad. Two trestle bridges, each about seventy-five feet long, were burned, and the ties and rails for a mile and a half effectually destroyed. The canip for the night was at Davis- borough. November 28, this day was spent in destroying the railroad between Davisborough and Tennille; two miles and a half of track and 500 feet of trestle-work were burned. November 29, marched from Davisborough to Spiers Station, and from thence parallel with the rail- road to near New Bethel, making in all a distance of twenty-one miles. November 30, marched to near Louisville, ten miles. December 1, marched at 7 a. in., taking the direct road to Millen, and camped for the night at Bark Camp Creek; distamice marched, fourteen miles. December 2, the march was resumed at daylight, and was unin- terrupted until Buck Head Creek was reached. The bridge over this place was partially destroyed, and a few of the enemys cavalry were on the opposite side of the swamp. Major Wright, commanding Twenty- nimith Ohio Volunteers, was ordered to cross the creek with his regi- ment and drive and keep away this force, which was accomplished without loss. The command encamped for the night near Buck Head Church; distance marched, eight miles. December 3, the troopsof time brigade were to-day in rear of the wagon trains of the division, in vihichm were Included the trains of General Kilpatricks cavalry com- mand, and did not march from the camp of the preceding night until 1 p. in. The roads were in a horrible conditiomi, passing as they did through numerous swamps and across many nnbridged streams. The progress of time trains was exceedimigly slow imi commsequence. The bri- gade reached the camp of time division, three miles and a half from Horse Creek, at 6.30 a. in. December 4; distance marched, four- teen miles. December 4, marched at 9 a. lii.; durimig tIme day Horse Creek amid Crooked Creek were crossed; di stamice marched, ten miles. December 5, the distammee marched this day was fifteen miles. The roads, as had been the case for several days past, were over plains of a sandy soil, well timbered (pine), aiid crossed numerous smuall streaums ammd mnarshes. The Little Ogeeclmee Itiver was crossed this (lay. Deceum- ber 6, nothi 1mg of any special importance transpired to-day. Decem- ber 7, owimig to the exceedingly bad condition of the roads, the troops of the brigade were distributed along the train, and rendered material assistance in pushing them alommg. The camp Ibr the imight was near Springfield, and the distance marched about twelve miles. Decemnber 8, the command move(l at dayliglmt, crossing Jacks Creek, and I)ass- ing through Springfield, imm time direction of Monteith. December 9 and 10, these two days were occupied in marching to a l)oint Ofl the Angnsta road, five muiles from Savannah, Ga. December 11, at 9 a. m. the brigade marched to the bank of Savannah River, opposit Page 285 CHAP. LVI.J THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 285 ilutchinsons Island, and went into position in rear of the Third Bri- gade, Second Division, there skirmishing slightly with the enemy. In this position it remained until 3 p. in., when, in compliance with orders from the general commanding division, it was placed in position on the right of the Third Brigade, and relieved the troops of the Second Bri- gade, Second Division, Twentieth Corps. At 1 a. in. December 12, in obedience to orders, the brigade was placed under arms, and afterward formed in line in rear of the Third Brigade, to await the movement. The orders from the general commanding division were for me to occupy the position of the Third Brigade when it moved out it being under- stood that these troopsweretoassaulttheworks ofthe enemy at 2.30 a.in., and then report to him fhr further instructions. At 4.30 a. in. I received, through Captain Lambert, orders from the general commanding division to withdraw my command and inam-ch it to its original position, the assault having been postponed. December 12 to December 20, inclusive, the command remained in the position previously mentioned. A sub- stantial line of works was throwii up for the protection of the command from the artillery of the enemy, and, in addition to this, two forts, with thirteen embrasures in the aggregate, were constructed by the com- mand. The working parties on Fort No. 2 were under the conimnand of Captain Kreider, One hundred and forty-seventh Penn sylvania Volun- teers, and those on Fort No.3 under command of Capt. E. B. Woodbury, Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteers. Both these officers and the men under their command are deserving of praise fbi the energy and perseverance manifested in the l)rosecution ot the duty assigned them. December 21, the enemy having evacuated their position the night l)revious, their works were occupied at ati early hour by the skirmishers of the division, and by sunrise the city of Savannah was entered and occupied, this brigade being the second in line in the advance into the city. Soon after reaching the city the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania and Twenty- ninth Ohio Volunteers, tinder the command of Col. John Flynn, Twenty- eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, were, by order of the general com- manding division, thi-oiigh Captain Veale, ai(le-de-calnp, dispatched to occupy Fort Jackson and the smaller forts and batteries near it. The possession of the fort and other works was gained without resistance. The Fifth Ohio Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Kirkup commanding, was placed in charge of the arsenal oii President street. With the remainder of the command I took possession of the U. S. barracks. Attached to this report l)lease find inventories of ordnance, and ord- nance stores found at each of those places.* I have the honor to call your attention also to the statements of the brigade quarterni aster and brigade corn missary, and would respectfully state that the forage and subsistence taken by the troops at halts and camps do not enter into these estimates.t The supply trains are in much better condition than they were on leaving Atlaiita, notwithstanding the long and tedious march over roads which at times seemed almost impassable. The rations, owing to judgment exercised by Lieut. Samuel D. Conner in their issue, lasted niitil the night of the 15th instant. He is deserving of especial credit for the systematic manner in which he secured supplies, and for their equitable distribution to the troops of the command. * Embodied in Gearys report, p. 280. These statements show 250 head beef cattle, 65 head sheep, 2,000 pounds bacon, 600 bushels sweet potatoes, 3 barrels salt, 2 barrels molasses, 250 sacks corn meal, 4 horses, 30 mules, 58,425 pounds corn, and 84,000 pounds fodder Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAr. LVI. The pioneer corps, nuder command of Captain Hedges, rendered valuable service in the construction of bridges and the repair of roads, and especial thanks are due them for the part taken in the construction of the forts to which allusion has been made. To the regimental commanders I tender my thanks for the strict obedience to orders, and the enforcement of the regulations presci~ibed in regard to the conduct of the march, and especially are they due to Maj. M. T. Wright, Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteers, who was seriously woun(led while supervising the working parties on the forts, for the promptitude exhibited by him in the execution of all orders, and his strict attention to the duties incumbent on him throughout the entire campaign. To Lient. A. II. W. Creigh, acting assistant adjutant-general; to Capt. J. W. Watkins, acting assistant inspector-general; to Surg. William iR. Longshore, chief surgeon of brigade; and to Lient. C. W. Kellogg, acting aide-dc-camp, my especial thanks are due for their devotion to their duty, and for the creditable manner in which their several depart- ments were conducted. Accompanying this plense find the reports of the regimental com- manders, to which your attention is respectfully called, as well as to the list of casualties, which is hereunto annexed.* Respectfully submitted. AIRLO PAIRDEE, Jn., Colonel 147th Pennsylvania Vols., Commanding Brigade. Capt. W. T. FORBES, Assistant Adjutant- Ge)teral. No. 100. Report of Licut. Col. Robert Kirkup, Fifth Ohio Infantry. HEADQUARTERS FIFTR Gino VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, & teannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. Sin: I have time hommor to forward the official report of operations of the Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry froni September 2, 1864, to Decem- ber 21, 1864: The regiment entered the city of Atlanta, Ga., on the 4th day of September, 1864, and went into camp. The months of September and October were occupied in building defenses around the city and doing garrison (luty. On the 9th day of November the regiment was ordered into the works to assist in repulsing an attack made by the enemys cavalry. On the 13th day of November the regiment was ordered to report at brigade headquarters, and then marched out to assist in destroying the Atlanta and Chattanooga Railroad. On the 15th day of November tIme reg- imnent broke camp and marched out on time road leading to Decatur, Ga. Nothing of importance took place until the 18th instant, when the regiment halted and stacked armus aimd assisted in destroying the railroad near Rutledge, Ga., and on the l9tlm, when near Parks Ferry, went into camp and destroyed the railroad. 0mm the 22d we crossed the Oconee River and 1)assed through Milledgeville, Ga., time capital of the State of Georgia, and camped ommtside the city, wimere we remained Nominal 1i~t (here omitte(l) shows 3 eiilistcd men killed; 1 conminissioned officer and 8 enlisted men wounded Page 287 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 287 until the 24th, when we again resumed the march, and entered Sanders- yule, Ga., on the 26th instant, and marched to Tennille Station, on Central railroad; there we assisted in destroying the railroad and camped for the night. On the 27th instant we continued the destruc- tion of the road until 3 p. in., when we marched to Waynesborough and caml)ed for the night. On the 28th instant we marcued back toward Tennille and destroyed the railroad as we went, and then marched back to Waynesborough and camped for time night. On the 1st of December we crossed the Ogeechee River, and contin- ued our nmarch without interruption until the 10th, whein we arrived in camp near Savannah, Ga. On the 11th we moved itito hue, left in front, and near time Savannah River. At 3 p. in. we mnove(l out an(l took posi- tion on a road lea(ling to the Savannah River, where we remained doing skirmish duty and erecting field-works, until the morning of the 21st, when we were ordered to fall in and moved into the city of Savan- nah, Ga., the enemy having evacuated. We were tlieim put omi guard over the ordnance and ordnance stores in park and arsenal which were left by the enemy, and an inventory takeum. Sir, respectfully submitted. ROBERT KIRKUP, Lie uten ant- Colonel, Comdg. Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Lient. A. H. W. CREIGH, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., 1st Brig., 2d J)ir., 20th Army Corps. No. 101. Report oJ Maj. Myron T. Wright, Twenty-ninth Ohio infantry, of operations Yo rem ber 15December 19. ILDQRS. TwENTY-NINm REGT. Oiuo VET. VOL. INETY., & ncannalu, (hi., i)ecemnber 28, 1861. LiEUTENANT :* 15th [November}, broke up camp at 6.30; marched slowly; stopped at I)ecatur for dinner, then marched in the direction of Stone Mountain; reached the base of Stomme Mountain at 11 p. m. and emucanuped for the mmight~ Twenty-ninth in the rear of the First Brigade. 16th, marched at 9 a. mu. imi betweemi portions of the train; crossed Yellow River, and encamped for the night at 8 p. m. 17th, marched at 5 a. lii.; camped near Social Circle at 5 p. mu. for the night. 18th, marched about niuue miles mu fomemmoomm, Stol)pmlmg often to tear imp time railroad track; went imito camp near i~ladison at 5 p. in. 19th, broke camp at S a. m; Twenty-mmiuithm, rear guam-d of (hivisicim; muarclmed umutil 4 P. in. amid camped for the night near Parks Mill. 20t.lm, marched ah)out seven miles; camped near Dun- hanis. 21st, marched at 6.30 a. in.; halted at 4.30 p. mm. for the night. 22d. moved at 7.30 a. in. an(l arrived at Milledgevihle, Ga., at 9 p. in., amm(l cauml)cd about three inihes south of town. 23d, remnained in caump; Twemuty-muiuuth went on h)icket at 4 p. in. 24t1m, moved at 7 a. 1mm.; rf~veI1tymmi1ithm (first battahiomm of First Brigade) mnarched fifteen miuiles and (amnpe(h tom the ight. 25th, mnarclme(l at 8 a. inn. ; T~venty-imiumth traimm gnam(h; arrived at Bullhlo Crcek~ foumud time bridge destroyed; l)arked lor l)ortioll ot report (hero omitted) rolatiiig Vol. XXXIX, Parm I, p. 671. to operatioll8 ~ou~ Atlanta, se Page 288 288 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., ANI) FLA. (CHAP. LVI. the train and stacked arms for dinner; remained here until the bridge was repaired, then crossed and went into camp for the itight. 26th, moved at 8 a. m. in rear of the train; marched slowly until 1 p. in.; arrived in Sandersville; halted for dinner, then moved to Station 13; took the rail- road to the east, tore up al)out one mile and a half of track, then went into camp for the night at 6 p. in.; marched thirteen miles. 27th, was called up at 1.30 a. in. by alarm; remained in line two hours, then lay down again; marched at 8 a. in.; commenced tearing up track; worked until noon; took dinner and lay quiet until 3 p. in., then marched rapidly; arrived in l)avisborough at 9.30 p. in.; marched about thirteen miles. 28th, moved out on the railroad and tore up track until 5 p. in.; marched back to I)avisborough and camped near our 01(1 camp. 29th, moved at 7.30; moved in a southeasterly direction until 7 p. in., and encamped for the night near Bostwick. 30th, marched at 7; crosse(l the Ogeechee River; marched about six miles and camped for the nioht. December 1, moved at8 a. in.; marched nntil (lark and calnl)ed; marched about nineteen miles. 2d, marched at 6 a. in. ; moved briskly until 12 in.; halted at Creek for dinner; found tIme bridge (lestroyed and enemy on the other side. Twenty-ninth received orders to drive the enemy out of reach of the bridge and hold the ground; fell in, loaded, and moved across; moved about half a mile; came in contact with the enemy in sniall force; (leployed three compaiuies to the left of the road; (leployed a line of skirmishers 500 yards to left of woo(ls, the right rest- ing in woods on right of road; also sent four companies, un(ler corn- mamud of Capt. Jonas Selmoonover, to cover two roads leading from main road; commenced firing and drove the enemy from their position; advanced steadily to a ridge in open field about one mile from the bridge; tlmrew up some works and extemuded the line to connect with Captain Schoonover; here waite(l until the bridge was finished, then joined the brigade in the field and camped for the night. 3d, moved at 10 a. in. amid marched all (lay aim(l night; made a (listamice of ten miles; camped near Mihlen, Ga. 4th, moved at 9 a. in.; marched about three miles; halted for repairing of a bridge; mnove(l again at 2.30 p. iii.; arrived at Big Horse Creek, and halted for trains to pass; crossed at 8 an(l camped for time night. 5th, moved at 7 a. in.; Twemuty-ninthi in charge of First and Third Brigade trains; moved fifteen miles an(i went into camp at 5 p. m. 6th, moved at 9; halted for supper at 6 p. in.; then crossed a big swamp and camped for the night. 7th, marched at 7 a. in.; Twenty-ninth assisted the traimus; crossed Turkey Creek at dark; camped near Springfield. 8th, moved at 7 a. in.; marched twelve miles and caml)ed for the night. 9th, marched at 9 a. m; took dinner near Eden; went into camp for the night at Walthour [Monteith] Swamp. 10th, received orders to report to Colonel Jones, Second Bri- gade; joined Second Brigade and marched back to the train; Twenty- ninth took position on the same grounds where we got dinmuer on the 9th; sent a company forward about 600 yards for picket; moved at 12 in.; Twenty-ninth took position in front of last 100 wagomis; marched very briskly until 6 p. in.; joined First Brigade and went into camp for the night. 11th, moved at 10 a. in.; Twenty-ninth on right of First Bri- gade; moved to time Savannah River, with instructions to deploy a line connecting with Third Brigade on time right and extending to the river, with a heavy reserve at the river; found Colonel Barnums line rCSt(M1 on it, and took position in supporting distance of his left; followed his skirmishers in hue of battle to a fonce about 700 yards from the enemys works; remained here until 4 p. um.; joined the brigade, and moved t Page 289 CHAP. LVI.l THE SAVANNAh CAMPAiGN. 289 the right about half a mile; went into position on a road perpendicular to the river, ab out four nilles and a half from the city of Savannah, Ga. 12th, in line of battle before Savannah; Twenty-ninth moved to tlte left in support of Third Brigade, ~vhich was to charge a fort in their front, but found a canal that they could not cross; they caine back to their works; Twenty-ninth returned to our 01(1 position; nothing of interest occurred during the day. 13th, iii line before Savannah; at 10 a. in. moved the Twenty-ninth to the rear about 300 yards; l)repared timber for rifle-pits; at 4 p. in. took the four right companies on to the picket- line and placed them on duty; at 9 advaimeed the line 150 yards into an open field and put rip pits. 14th, on skirmish line; considerable firing on both sides; Twenty-ninth pickets relieved by Fifth Ohio. 15th to 18th, nothing worthy of note transpired. 19th, received instructions to take charge of the fortifications in front of the First Brigade; corn- mnenced work at dark. While laying out a connection between Forts 2 and 3 I received a severe wound in my left foot. I then turned the corn- muand of the Twenty-ninth Ohio Veteran Volunteer Imifantry over to Capt. Jonas Schoonover. I am, with much resl)ect, your obedient servant, MYRON T. WRIGHT, Major Twen ty-n in tli Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry. Lient. A. H. W. CREIGH, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brig., AS1econd Div., Twentieth (loips. No. 102. Report oJ Capt. Jonas Schoonover, Twenty-ninth Oh io ii~fantry, ~f oper ations December 2021. HDQIIS. TWENTY-NINTH REGT. OHIO VET. VOL. JNFTY., ~a rannah, Ga., December 28 18G4. LIEUTENANT: In compliance with circular froni headquarters First Ihigade, Second Division, Twentieth Corps, dated Savannah, Ga., l)ecember 23, 1864, I have the honor most respectfully to make the fol- lowing report: I took command of the Twenty-ninth Ohio in front of Savannah, Ga., I )ecemnber 20, 1864. Nothing worthy of note occurred during this day. At 4 a. in. of time 2tst the Twenty-ninth, in advance of First Brigade, took lii) a line of march to the city of Savannah, and from there to Fort Jackson, Ga., where I rej)orted to Colomiel Flynn, of the Twenty.eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, for duty, and performed garrison duty until 1)ecember 24, when the Twenty-mminth was ordered to march at 9.30 a. III., Twemity-ninth in rear of Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and niarched to and through the city where we ale now encamped. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JONAS SCHOONOVER, Oaptain, (]omdg. Twenty-ninth Ohio Veteran Vol. Im~fan try. First Licut. A. II. W. CREIGH, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. (ica., First Brig., Second Pie., Twentieth Corps. 19 R HVOL XL1 Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. No. 103. Report of Lient. Col. Eugene Powell, Sixty-~4xth Ohio infantry, of ojpcr a tions & ptember 1Decem ber 21. EIDQRS. SiXTY-SiXTH IiEGT. Oiiio YET. VOL. INFANTRY ASaVannal?, Ga., December 26, 1864. LIEUTENANT: In compliance with circular from headquarters First Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the cam- paign ending on the 2ist instant: This regiment broke camp on the 4th of September, 1864, on the Chat- tahoochee River, and moved to the city of Atlanta same day and went into camp in the enemys outer line of works, with right restiiig near Marietta railroad. The 5th of September received orders to report to Colonel Beckwith, commissary of subsistence, Military Division of the Mississippi, for dnty as snpply gnard, where we remained until the morning of the 15th of November, 1864, when, with the First Brigade, Second Division, T~ventieth Army Corps, we started on the campaign. just ended. Nothing tramispired of note (hiring the campaign until time 11th of December, 1864, when we reaclie(l the enemys line of works, three miles and a half northeast of the city. Here we ~vent into line, this regiment on the right of brigade. Have 110 casualties to report until the night of 19th, when I had 3 iii en killed atid 3 wounded. We remained in line until the 21st, when we entered the city and are now encamped in Chippewa Square. Casualties: KilledPrivates S. G. Johnson, Company A; Joseph Powell, Company B; John H. Atkimmson, Company 1). Wounded Corpi. E. Kyle and Private I. Wood Coin ner, Company ~. , pany E, and Private S. Kelt I have the honor to be, lieu tenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EUGENE POWELL, Lient. Col. Sixty-sixth Ohio Vet. Vol. Infty., Comdg. Regiment. Lient. A. H. W. CREIGH, Aetg. Asst. Adjt. (Jen., 1st Brig., 24 Div., 20th Army Corps. No. 104. Report of 6ol. John Flynn, Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations September 2December 21. HDQRS. TWENTY-EIGHTH PENNSYLVANIA VET. VOL. INFTY., Savannah, Ga., December 28, 1864. LIEUTENANT: In comnl)hiance with circular dated headquarters First Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, December 23, 1864, I have the honor to report the following as the part taken by the Twenty-eighth Regiment Penn sylvai ia Veteran Voin uteer Infhntry in the campaign which closed on the 21 st instant by the occupation of the city of Savannah, Ga.: This campaign is, thiromighont its entire extent, void of interest to the soldier, as we had such unparalleled success that a great l)art of the army has not had occasion to form for battle~ fe~v bloody lields hav Page 291 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 291 been lost or won; no sieges have been commenced and ended, as the enemy has iiot in one instance made a stand of sufficient length to re- quhie the necessity of such nieasnres. From the 2d of September to the 9th of November, 1864, nothing more than the regular routine.of camp duties occurred. On the morn- ing of November 9 we were nuceremoniously awakened by the rattling ot artillery an(l musketry by a small force of the enemy a.tteiiiptiiig to enter our hues, but in this they were defeated and repulsed, leaving two killed and taking several wounded with them; the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer infantry sustained no loss. On the next mnorui- i1I~ W e were ])repared to leave Atlanta, which move commenced on the morning of November Th. We started from camp at 6.30 a. m. aLl(l marched seven miles in the direction of 1)ecatur, Ga.; halted for diii- ncr at 1 p. in.; started again at 3 p. in., and, after marching slowly, we halted at 12 p. in. for the umiglit; distance marched, fifteen miles. ~()vemnber 16, started at 9 a. in. and marched fast for a (histauice of twelve miles; halted for dinner at 2 p. in. one mile frouii Rock Bridge. We crossed Yellow River and encamped for the night, after marchino twelve miles without. interest. November 17, started at 6 a. In.; marched until 12.15 p. ni.; halted for dinner; started at 2 p. mu. aimd marched to within six miles of Social Circle, on the Georgia Central Railroad; we halted and encamped here for the night, after a tedious u~arch of fourteen miles. November 18, started at 5 a. in.- )assed through Social Circle, where we found tIme railroad depot destroyed; moved ou and halted at Rutledge for dinner at 11.30 a. in. We here burned the depot and store-house containing some rebel stores and starte(l again at 2 p. in. and marched to within a distance of two miles of Madison, where we encamped for the iiight; distance marched, nineteen miles. November 19, startc(l at 5 a. in.; passed through Madison at daylight; halted at 12 in. at Buck Head for dinner; started again at 1 ~ m. and at S p. in. we halted at Jordans planta- tion. The Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Veteran Volut teer Imifantry here assisted to tear up the railroad all(l destroyed 3,000 bushels of corn and 600 bales of cotton. We uiiarched this day sixteen miles. November 20, started at 7 a. in. an(l marched eight mniles without mci- (lent; halted for (hiumner at 12 in.; at 2 p. m. we started, aiid, after marching sex-en miles, encamped for the night at 6 p. in.; distance muarched, fifteen uPles. November 21, started at 7 a. in., the Twemity- eighth Penn sylvania Veteran Volunteer infantry mu advance of the (livismon; halted tor dinner at 1.30 p. in., and moved out again without ineidemit at 2.30 p. in. and marched to i)octor Nesbits planta- tion, where we were posted as picket guard for the divisiomi; thIi8 was a very cold day and night; distance marched nine umiles. No- veinl)er 22, started at 7 a. in. as rear guard for time division; after marching for four miles we crossed time Centi-al railroad at Dennis Station. Here w-e rejoimmed the corps, which had been separated since we came from Ma(hisOn on the 18th. ~Xe traveled slow in the direction of Milledgeville and halted for dinmier at 1 p. in. We l)assed through Muhledg-evmlle atter a very tedious march and encamped at 11 p.m., having marched twenty miles. November 23. we remained in camp until 12 in., when we moved half a mile. into the woo(ls, where we remained all day. November 24, we got tinder way at 9 a. mu., marching- thi-oug-Im swanips and mud to within five miles ot hlebron, where we cncanll)e(l for the night; imiam-ched this day a distance of twelve miles. November 23, started at 7.30 a. in., march slow and tedious; 1)assed throug Page 292 292 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. Hebron and came to Buft~ilo Creek. Here we found eight bridges burnt, which took considerable time to rebuild, but at 6 p. m. we moved across the creek and encamped half a mile from it for the night, after marching only six miles. November 26, started at 8 a. m. as .guard f~r the divis- ion quartermasters train; halted at 9.15 a. in. to reorganize the train; started again at 11 a. m; marched to witliin half a mile of Sandersville; we here halted for dinner, and at 2 p. m. we marched through the town of Sandersville and down to the Central railroad, which we struck at Tennille Station. We here commenced tearing up the track, burning the cross- ties, and totally destroying the railroad for a distance of two miles, when we encamped for the night. At about 1 p. m. we were aroused and the command put under arms, but nothing occurred; distance marched, sixteen miles. November 27, commenced tearing up the track at 8 a. m. and worked until 1 p. in., when we rested for dinner, and at 4 p. m. we started for Davisborough, and after a tedious march we arrived there at 9 p. in., marching to-day a distance of ten miles. november 28, went to work again on the railroad, about five miles west of Davis- borough, at 7.30 a. in., and halted at 1 p. m. for dinner; at 3 p. m. commenced again and worked until 5 p. in.; the rebels ma(le a dash upon the Third Brigade, and the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Infantry, in company with the First Brigade, started to re-enforce them, but they had already been dispersed. We started at 6 p. m. on our return to Davisborough, which place we reached at 7.30 p. in., after working all day and marching a distance of niiie miles. November 29, started at 7.20 a. in., and marched to Spiers Station, when we halted for dinner at 1 p. in.; left Spiers Station at 4 p. m. and marched fast and without incident to within two miles of Bostwick Station, where we halted at 7 p. m. for the night; distance marched, eighteemi miles. November 30, started on the march again at 6.45 a. in.; marched quick and through swampy grouiid until 2 p. in., when we halted for dinner at the plantation of Doctor Blake, a great slaveholder, having at this time some 300 slaves on his plantation, mostly women. We left here at 4 p. mu. amid marched to join the corps at Millers planta- tion, where we arrived at 6.30 p. in.; distance marched, ten miles. December 1, this days march was without incident. We left Mil- lers plantatian at 7.25 a. m. aiid marched until 2 p. in., wheu we halted for dinner; started again at 4 p. m. amid marched until 7 p. in., when we halted for the night, after inar~hiiig twelve miles. December 2, left camp at 6.45 a. m. aiid marched until 12 in., when we halted for dinner; started at 1 p. in. amid marched past Jones plantation; we crossed Buck Head Creek and camped at 3.30 p. in.; the Twenty-eighth Penn- sylvania, with 200 of the Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infamitry, picketed for the division; posted 1)ickets and passed the night without incident; distance marched, ten miles. December 3, started again at 2 p. in., and after tedious marchimi g through swamps and in the rain, halting about every 100 steps, we stopped at 6.30 a. m. of the 4th; distance marched, twelve miles iii direction east-southeast and northeast of Millen, crossing Little Buck Head Creek, hiaviimg umarclmed all night; a dis- tance of twelve miles. December 4, started at 9.30 a, m. and marched until 11 a. mu.; halted for dinner ammd were off again at 3 p. ni., niarching across a large swamp, and halted one mile from Horse Creek at 8 p. ni., after marchimig eight miles without incident. De- cember 5, this day we marched with the wagons, assisting thmcm over the many muddy places in the road, and halting for tlme night at 6 p. in.; distance marched, fifteen miles. December 6, like yes Page 293 Cuip. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 293 terday, we spent this one with the teams and without halting for any length of time; we encamped at 6.30 p. in.; marched ten miles. De- cember 7, again with the wagons, raining nearly all day and very bad. roads; we marched ten miles in the direction of Springfield and encamped at 8 p. m. December 8, started at 8 a. in.; passed through Springfield, a small village; marching rather fast; halted for th& night at 4 p. in., having marched thirteen miles. December 9, this wa~ the first day that we heard artillery firing in our front. We started at 7 a. in., and having marched two miles halted to issue rations; sfarted again at 1 p. m. and halted at S p. in.; distance marched, eight miles. I)ecember 10, we moved off this day at 12.30 p. in.; marc] ied steady on a splendid road with the wagons until we came to about five miles of Savannah, where we halted at S p. in. and encamped for the night, after marching eleven miles. This day we came lip to the rebel intrenchmnents. December 11, at 10 a. m. we left camp and moved off in the direction of the Savannah River, which we struck at 2 p. m. From this point we had a fine view of the rebel fortifications about one mile off. Left here at 4.30 p. m. and moved on a road running at right angles about half a mile. We here relieved the Second Brigade and were posted in line, the Sixty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry on onr right, and the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry on our left. Here we found a dike or drain for a rice plantation, which formed a very good rifle- work. December 12, at 1 a. m. we moved about half a mile to the left, without knapsacks, and lay here until 4 a. in. in support of the Third Brigade, which were to charge the enemys works. The order being countermanded we returned to our original position at 4.15 a. in. Re- mained here all day without incident. Heard occasional shots of artil- lery all night. December 13, still in the same position. We to-day improved the breast-work and put the camp in order. Heavy firing on our right. No incident of note occurred to-day. l)ecember 14, the rebels opened their fire on the skirmish pits, which the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry had constructed yesterday early; a few shots went over camp, but none doing any damage. Received official notice of the capture of Fort McAllister by the Second Division, Fifteenth Army Corps, thus allowing General Sherman to communicate with the fleet and army of General Foster. December 15 and 16, still in the same position. The rebels shell our camp continually, but do no damage. No incidents of note occurred during these days. December 17, still in the same position. Received our first mail to-day since leaving Atlanta. Nothimug occurred beyond the reg- ular routine of camp life. Heavy detail from the regiment to-night for fatigue duty. Building lunettes calculated for some heavy pieces. December 18, very hot weather; nothing of importance occurred; do not think the enemy has seen the lunettes built last night, which accounts for their muot shelling them. December 19, the enemy shelled our works vigorously to-night, killing and wounding several of the brigade, but none of the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan- try; nothing of importance occurred. December 20, still in the same position; the rebels were rather quiet until about 4 p. in., when they shelled our works, wounding some more of the brigade; they comi- tinned shelling until 1 a. in. of the 21st, when we received notice that they were evacuating the city. To confirm this we marched into the city at daylight, and the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry and the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry passed omi to Fort Jackson, four miles down the river; here we arrived at 7 a. in. Page 294 294 OPERATIONS IN S. C., CA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. we entered the fort an(i nuinediately hung our colors to the breeze we found the enemy had retreated, leaving the fort on lire and one of the magazines blowii up; we captured in the fort and vicinity :* Of the 91 guns captured, 14 only were found to have been spiked and shotted. The gun carriages were broken and temporarily disabled, and all the iniplements were broken and destroyed. Thus has closed probably one of the niost tedious, and yet one of the niost successful campaigns on record in the world, and is a striking example ot what can l)e accomplished wimemi the soldiers of a country work with their general and lie with them. We have been some thirty- six days on the march, and traveled a distance of 320 miles. We are now holding the defenses of our capture, but probably before long we niay be on another move, and it is hoped that General Sherman and his army may be as successful as they have been in accomplishing the downfall of Savannah, Ga., December 21, 1864. Respectfully submitted. JOHN FLYNN, Lient. A. H. ~\T CREIGIJ, Colonel, (Jommnand~ng. Acting Assista nt A dpt.tan I- General, First Brigade. No. 105. Report of Lient. Col. John Craig, One hnndre4 and forty-seventh Penn sylcan ia Infantry, of operations k~eptcmber 2J)ecemnber 21. HDQRS. 147TH REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOL. INFANTRY, Sarannak Ga 1)eeember 2G 1864. , ., Sin: In compliance with circular dated headquarters First Brigade, Second l)ivision, Twentieth Army Corps, I)ecember 23, 1864, I have the honor to submit the following report: On the 2d day of September we lay in line of works built by us a few days l)revions along the Chattahoochee River, and remimiimed until September 4, when orders were received to strike tents as the brigade was ordered to Atlanta. We took up the line of march at 9.30 a. in., reaching the city at 1 p. m. Here we wem-e put into line of works built by the enemy on the west side of the city, where we remained until November 15. We were, on account of the movement of the troops, obliged to change camp several times. We assisted in bnilding the fortifications around the city. November 9, the enemy, with a strong force of cavalry and four pieces of artillery, made an attack at 7 a. in. on mmiv immediate front, driving in the picket-hue, advancing to within 200 yards of the main line. At the first firing I immediately ordered one company across the railroad into the fort on my right, where they opened fire on the enemy, repulsing them almost instantly. My skir- mishers advanced immediately and took possession ot the picket-line, findimig 2 killed, 2 wounded, and 1 prisoner of the enemy imuside ot the picket-line; there was no loss out of my regiment. While encamped at Atlanta, Ga., repeated orders were receive(l to immake preparatiomis for a fifty days campaign. November 15, we took up the line of nmarch, niovung primicipally in an eastern directioim nearly l)arahlel with the Augusta and Atlanta Railroad until where it crosses the Oconee River, List of captures ciiibodied in (~carys report, p. 280 Page 295 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 295 from whence we struck south toward Milledgeville, Ga., reaching it on the ni~ht of the 22d. Ott the niorning of the 24th we again took up the line of march. moving principally southeast until December 11, which brought us withul4 four miles of the city of Savannah, Ga. Here the enemy was found in force and well fortified. On the evening of this day we were placed in line, my right connecting with the Fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Jimfantry, and my left with the Sixtieth Regiment New York Volunteers, Third Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps. Here we put up a line of works, where we remained until the morning of the 21st. The shelling of the enemys guns was rather annoying, scattering in all directions through the camp. I had 3 men wounded, 2 of whom have since died. On the morning of the 21st, finding the enemys works evacuated, we imme- diately followed up their retreat into the city of Savannah, Ga. In conclusion I beg leave to thank the officers and men for their uni- formity and willingness in discharging their duties. Our marches were long and tedious, marching over 300 miles in twenty-six days. Accompanying please find report of casualties.* JOHN CRAIG, Lieu t. Col. 147th Regt. Pennsyirania Volunteers, Commanding. Lient. A. H. W. CREIGH, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 106. Report of Col. Patrick II. Jones, One hundred and fifty-fourth New York Infantry, commanding & cond Brigade, of operations & ptember 18 December 21. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND Div., TWENTIETH Coups, Savannah, Ga December 31 1864. CAPTAIN: 1 have the honor to state that on the 18th of September, 1864, I assumed command of this brigade, which was then lying in camp about 200 yards north of the MeDonough road and southwest of Atlanta nearly three-quarters of a mile, where it remained until 3 p. in. November 5, 1864, when orders were received to be in readiness to march at an hours notice. At 4 p. m. on the same day broke camp and marched about one mile in a southerly direction, and encamped for the night on or near the MeDonough road. On the following day orders were received to return, when we marched back and reoccupied our camp. My brigade furnished all required details for fatigue amid for- aging expeditions during the occupation of Atlanta~, Ga. On the morn- ing of November 15, 1864, at 7 oclock, we again broke camp, in accord- amice with orders r~ceived the previous evening, with thirty days rations amid sixty rounds of ammunition (in cartridge-boxes and knap- sacks) per man. The course from Atlanta was southeasterly, along the Decatur pike, passing several small villages, of wlmich the following imi their order are the most prominent: Decatur, Stone Mountain, Social Circle, Madison, amid on the 22d of November, 1864, reached Milledge- ville, Ga., where we remained one day. On the 24th instant resumed the march in aim easterly direction to Sandersville, from which place our course was due south to a point on the Macon and Savannah Rail- road called Tennille, or Station No. 13. The brigade assisted in destroy- *Nominal list (omitted) shows 2 enlisted men killed, 1 wounded, and 1 missing Page 296 296 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. ing the railroad track until noon, when the march was resumed in the (lirectioll of Davisborough, where I arrived at 10 p. in. November27 1864. On the following morning the brigade was detached for the purpose of escorting the headquarters train Twentieth Corps to Spiers Station, where I encamped for the niolit. On the morning of November 29, 1864, I received orders to march the brigade to Station No. 10k, on the Macon and Savannah Railroad, with instructions to destroy one mile of rail- road track to the west of said station, and to the east as fir as the Ogeechee Itiver, and also the bridge crossing it, which I (lid in a very effectual manner. The advance of the brigade marched as far as Sta- tion No. 10, (Iestroying some cotton and cotton gins, and rejoined the brigade at the river before the destruction of the bridge and trestle- work was completed. Dnring the afternoon of the 30th I was ordered to rejoiu the division, and a guide was sent to conduct the brigade. After a tedious night march of about fifteen miles I reported the brigade to the division commander about three miles north of Louisville, Ga. On the following morning the march was resumed, but, until the 9th of December, nothing of importance occurred. On that day the First Division, having the advance of the corps, encountered a force of the eiiemy intrenched behind a swamp about thirteen miles north of Sa- vannah, wheu this brigade was ordered to the support of Colonel Car- mans brigade, of the First Division, then prel)aring to attack the enemy. I reported with the brigade at the place indicated, but the enemy in the meantime abandoned the position, and 1 was directed to return and rejoin the division, which I did at night-fall of that day. Ou the following morning, December 10, I was ordered to march about two miles to the rear, where the train of the corps was parked and cover the approaches leading to it, and when it moved, follow at a proper dis- tance as rear guard, for which purpose a section of Winegars (New York) battery reported to me, together with one regiment of the First Bri- gade (the Twenty-ninth Ohio Veteran Volunteers). The train moved forward at 1 p. in. and went into camp about midnight on the line of the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, about five miles from the city. On the morning of December 11 the Third Brigade of this division, under command of Colonel Barnum, having reconnoitered the position of the enemy with a view to selecting ground for future operations, I was, about 10 a. in., ordered to move the brigade to the front and the left of our position on the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, and subse- quently, at 3 p. in., assigned position, the left resting on the Savannah River and about three miles distant from the city, the brigade in the reserve of the division and about 500 yards behind the first line, coin- posed of the Third and First Brigades. Under the instructions of the division commander I made disposition to protect the artillery in posi- tioq on the river-bank and to pit~ket the west bank of the river. On the 13th I was ordered to send a small force to the north of Ilutchiti - sons Island, in the Savannah River, to observe tl~ movements of the enemy and secure a rice mill on that part of the island which was to be used as a post of observation for our artihlei-y and staff officers. Maj. William H. Hoyt, One hundred and thirty-f6urth New York Volun- teers, with sixty men, was sent for this purpose, and his force being insufficient I was further ordei-ed by General Geary, commanding division, to send a small regiment for the purpose. Lient. Col. A. H. Jackson, 0 i~e hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers, was accordingly sent, and subsequently the Seventy-third Pennsylvania Vetem-an Xolunteers, Ma. (now Lient-Col.) C. C. Cresson comnniand- ing. These regiments remained there until the morning of the 21s Page 297 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 297 instant. The enemy having evacuated the city of Savannah on the night previous, on the morning of the 21st, about 4 oclock, I was ordered P) with(lraw the regiments upon the islalI(l an(l march the brigade for- war(l to the line of works fermerly ocdupie(1 by the enemy, and upon arriving there the general coirimanding division sent inc orders to march to the city. Arriving in the city I was assigned the city parade- grounds, or Forsyth Place, as a grouiid for encampment, and the bri- gade assigned to the duty of glla.r(ling and ~)atrol1iIlg a district of the city. The casualties of the brigade during the operations embraced in this rCl)Ort were slight. A tabular statement accolnl)anies this report. The officers and men of the command behaved with much considera- tion and propriety of conduct during the march, and but few instances of wanton destruction of property or pillage oceurred. To the officers of the staff I am under obligations for the faithful and diligent discharge of the duties devolving upon them. All of which is respectfully submitted. P. II. JONES, Colonel 154th New York Tolnnteers, Commanding Brigade. Capt. W. T. FORBES, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Seeon(i Division, Twentieth Corps. Numerical return of easnaltie8 of the Second Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Corp8, from the 15th day of Xoreniber, 1864, until the 21st day of December, 1864. Killed \\ ounded Missing. Total. Command. be be z ~ .~ 3 ~ C ~i - --___ 73(1 Pennsylvania veteran Voluntee I ~ 1 1 109th Pennsylvania Veteran Voluntee - :1: 119th New York Vo~nnteeis 134th New York Volunteers 1 8 1 16 17 1545h New York Volunteers 1 3 3 7 7 33d New Jersey Volunteers F I 1 1 Total 11 1 25 26 P. II. JONES, Colonel 154th New lark iolitnteers, Commanding Brigade. No. 107. Report of Cot. George W. MThdil, Thirty-third New Jersey Infantry, of operations September 2 December 21. IIDQRS. THIRTY-THIRD NEW JERSEY VOLUNTEERS, Sarann(th, Ga., December 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have time honor to submit the following official report of the movements of mny regimemit froIn the 2(1 of Sel)tembeL- to the 21st of December, 1864: Upon entering the city of Atlanta the regimelit was assigned a per- manent camp to time right of tile McDonougli moad, about one mile an Page 298 298 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. a half from the court-house. In this camp it remained, devoting its time to drill and parades, and receiving comiiplete outfits of clothing and camp and garrison equipage. On the 5th of November camp was broken and time regiment move(i with time brigade at 3 p. mim. out upon the MeDonough road, camping two miles and a lmalffroni the city. On the 6th of November we returned to our old quarters. November 15, broke camp at 7 a. in., moved out impomi the l)ecatur road and camped at 12 p. m. near Stone Mountain. ~ovemnl)er 16, moved at 8 a. in. and led the corps; marched fifteen miles, crossing Yellow River at Rock Bridoc and halting for the night five miles beyond it on the Sheffield road. Nov~nmber 17, moved at 6.30 a. in., marching through Sheffield over the Ulcoftmnliachee, and camped two nmiles horn Social Circle. November 18, moved at 5.30 a. in., passing Rutledge, and caml)ed at 5.30 p. m. one mile from Madison. November 19, moved at 5 a. in., passing through Madison; halted for dinner at Buck head Station, and continued the march to within one mile and a half of Oconee River on Georgia rail- road; tore up track afternoon amid evening. November 20, moved at 7 a. ni. toward Eatonton, passing i~arks Bridge amid Glades Cross-Roads; camped near Denhanis Tannery at 6 p. in. November 21, moved at 6 a. m. toward Eatonton. November 22, struck Eatonton Bramich Railroad, and passing through Milledgeville and over the Oconee River, camped two miles beyond it. November 23, in camp. November 24, moved at 110 a. in. on road to JIeb~on. November 25, passed through Hebron. November 26, entered Sammdersville, amid l)assed omi to Tennille, on railroad, and camped three miles beyond it. November 27, moved at 7 a. m. and tore up seven miles of railroad 1111(1 ma arched to Davisborough. November 28, brigade detached to guard time corps headquarters train; marched to Spiers Station on railroad. November 29, brigade again detached; moved by by-road to Station 10k; tore mip railroad to bridge over the Ogeecliec River. November 30, burned tIme bridge and then marched to Louisville, via Watkins Bridge, reaching camp of division at 12 p. m. December 1, moved at 8 a. m. and cainl)ed l)eyoud Birdville. Decem- ber 2, moved at 6 a. m. toward Millen and camped at Buck Head Creek. December 3. moved at 10 a. lii.; crossed Augusta amid 1~Iillen Railroad: camped six miles beyond it omi the Sylvania road. December 4, moved at 7.30 a. inn.; caml)e(l at horse Creek. T)ecember 5, marched fourteen miles and camped, leaving Sylvania to our left. December 6, continued the march toward Springfield; roads very soft amid marshy; camped after a tedious march of six miles. December 7, still continued the mnarch toward S~iringfield amid caml)ed for the inmight near it. Decembe 8, passed Springfield and marched twelve miles and cainpe(1 near Zior Church. December 9, moved at 10 a. mu. and struck Savaminahi road. First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, on our front; skirmished with the enemy, who had a battery in position coverimig the road; camped for the night sixteen miles from Savammnah. I)ecemmmber 10, pushing on, passed Harrisons i)lammtatiou and Fourteenth Army Corps, struck Savammah and Charleston Railroad nine mimiles aiid a half fromn tlme city, and camped five muiles and a half froum it that night. December 11, placed in J)osition as reserves on banks of Savammnah River, opposite ilutelminsomis Island and confrontimig the enemys right flank, being in rear of the Third Brigade. I )ecemnber 12 to 20, we remained in the same position. Deceumber 21, entered the city of Savammmmah at 8 a. m. and were assigmied a camp on the parade ot time city. During the entire campaign time troops have subsisted upon the country, and found food of all kin(ls in abundamice, miever suffrring from scarcity of provisions. In front of Savannah we were unprotected b Page 299 ~~HAP. LYI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 299 breast-works, being in the reserve line, and subject to a heavy fire of shrapnel and shell from the opposing batteries of the enemy in our front, and to a. heavy and provoking fire from a Confederate gun-boat in the far channel round Hutchinsons Island. I am happy to state but one casualty occurred, viz, the slight wound- ing of Private Terrence sweeney, Company 1). Those sol(liers reported as deserters in the accompanying schedule were all troublesome characters, and, despite repeated remonstrance and punishment and the constant vigilance of officers, succeeded in strag- ghing and were captured by the enemy. Their absence being willhil, I have marked them as deserters to the enemy, so that after exchange they :ire to be tried for this heinous offense. Before leaving Atlanta I received 136 substitutes, nearly all being raw recruits, many of them foreio-ners and unable eithei~ to write or speak the English language, aiid owing to physical disability caused by the exhaustion attendant upon so severe a campaign to new soldiers, many were compelled to leave the ranks at dines, and by becoming separated from the regiment during its night marches, and being unable to intelligibly define their wants and ask the location of their regiment, have as yet fiuiled to return, and are reported absent without leave. The larger part of these, it is to be hoped, are with some of the other corps, and will soon find their way into camp. The command needs a complete outfit of clothimig, shoes, & c., and will then be ready fur a new campaign, as both health an(l esprit are excellent. ~ubjoined is a~ list of casualties and desertions: Name and c5apany. Date. Remarks Private Terrence Sweeney. Con~pany D Dec. 14, 1864 wonn(med by shell from enemys battery. Corpi. James iF. Dooley, Company C Dcc. 13, 1864 1)eserted to the enemy. Private Bennerman, Company C do Do. Private John Gardner, Company D do Do. Private Charles H. Chapman, Company I do Do. Private Adam wetzel, Company K Dec. 12, 1864 Do. Private Francis McCarty, Company K do Do. Private John Smith, Compnnv K (10 Do. Private Charles wag~ier, Cimpanv K do Do. G. W. MINDIL, Colonel, Conima nding Thirty-third New Jer~ey Volunteers. Capt. N. K. BRAY, Acting Ass utant A (Ijutan t- General, Second Brigade. No. 108. Report of Col. John T. Loekman, One hundred and nineteenth New York Infantry, of operations ASeptember 1December 21. HDQRS. 119TH BEcTT. NEW YoRK STATE VOLUNTEERS, Sarannah Ga December 23, 1864. , ., SIR: In compliance with circular order I have the honor to submit tile following resum6 of events since September 1, 1864, and report of the part taken by my regiment imi the camnpaign just closed by time fall of Savannah, Ga.: September 1, regiment engaged in building works near Paces Ferry. September 2, still at Paces Ferry; 1 p. inn. our brigade rcceive(1 orders to move, and at S p. m. we halted at Atlanta. September 3, innove(1 ou Page 300 300 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. (CHAP. LVI. and occulpie(l rel)el works on easterly side of the city. September 4, assigned position on westerly side of McDonough road. September 5 to November 5, inclusive, regiment occupied same position. On the afternoon of November 5 regiment was or(lered to be ready to move, and at 3 p. m. marched ~ut on McDonough road about one mile and a half and bivouacked fbr the night, and on 6th of November returned to our camp, where regiment remained until the morning of November 15, when regiment moved from camp aIl(l marched to the vicinity of Stone Mountain. On the 16th of Noveniber march resumed bivonacked at night near Sheffield. November 17, marched to vicinity of Social Circle, destroying railroad track. November 18, moved at 5 a. in.; passed through Social Circle and bivouacked near Madison; portions of rail- road track destroyed. November 19, moved at 5 a. in.; passed through Madison, the division being on special duty; several miles of railroad track destroyed, also depot at Back Head; cavalry burned railroad bridge over Oconee River. November 20, moved at 7 a. in.; bivouacked at Denhams Mill. November 21, moved at 8 a. in. and marched toward the Oconee River; bivouacked about six miles from Eator~ton. Novem- ber 22, moved at 6.30 a. in. and crossed the Oconee River, and reached Milledgeville at 5 p. in.; passed through and bivouacked on the south side of the Oconee River. November 23, resting at Milledgeville. November 24, moved about eleven miles and bivouacked near Gum Creek. N oveinber 25, moved at 7 a. in. and bivouacked at Buffalo Creek. November 26, moved at 6 a. in., reaching Sandersville at 1 p. in.; at 4 p. in. moved to Tennille. November 27, moved at 6 a in.; engaged all day in destroying railroad track and bridges; bivonacked at Davisborough. November 28, moved at 11 a. m. and reached Spiers at (ip. m. and bivouacked. November 29, moved at 8 a. in. and marched to Bostwick; regiin ent engaged in tearing up and destroying railroad track. November 30, burned bridge over Ogeechee River, and trestle- work over Williamsons Swamp. At 4 p. in. moved to rejoin division and reached Louisville at 9 p. in., where we bivouacked. December 1, moved at 11 a. m. in the direction of Millen and biv- ouacked at miight about twelve miles northeast from Millen. December 2, moved at 6 a. m. and bivouacked near Buck Head Creek. Decem- ber 3, moved at 11 a. m. and bivouacked near Creek; division as rear guard. December 4, moved at 10.30 a. m. and bivouacked near Horse Creek. December 5, nioved at daylight and crossed Horse Creek; division still rear guard. December 6, regiment detailed to forage for brigade. December 7, regiment still on duty foraging for brigade; rejoined same near Springfield. December 8, moved at 7 a. in. and crossed Ebenezer Creek, and bivouacked for the night near Eden. December 9, moved at 8 a. in., First Division leading; at 2 p. m. rebels opened with artillery on the advance; the enemy was soon driven; our brigade sent to sul)port Colonel Carmans brigade, of the First Division; the enemy retreated and we were not needed; bivouacked for the night fourteen miles from Savannah. December 10, moved at 2.30 p. in. and bivouacked four miles from Savannah. December 11 to 20, in reserve in rear of first line. December 21, moved at 5 a. in. and entered Savannah at 6.30 a. in. There are no casualties to report. Very respectfully, your obediemit servant, JOHN T. LOCKNAN, Colonel, Commanding 119th New York Volunteers. Capt. N. K. BRAY, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gem, Second Brig., Second Div., 20th Corps Page 301 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 301 No. 109. Report of ]lJiaj. Williant H. Hoyt, One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Infantry, of operations & ptember 2December 21. Report of the One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers, from the capture of Atlanta, Ga., September 2, 1864, to the 21st of December, 1864, when the regiment entercd the city of Savannah, Ga.: September 2, the regiment, commanded by Capt. Otis Guffin, Com- pany F, was ordered to march at 1~ in.; advanced with the brigade into the city of Atlanta, Ga. Sep temnber 3, took position with the brigade in the outer works of the city. September 4, was ordered to take a new position farther to the right and bivouacked for the night. September 5, went into camp iii rear of the works amid did its regular picket duty and fatigue. September 11, Maj. William H. Hoyt took command of the regi- ment and relieved Capt. Otis Guffin. September 13, changed camp; the regimeimt took a new position in the works, where it remained, under com- mand of Maj. William H. floyt, doing its regular picket an(l fatigue duty and participating in the foraging expeditions until November 5, when it was ordered to move with the corps out of the works on the Macon road and encamp. November 6, the regiment returmied to its old camp and remained until November 15, when it moved out of the city of Atlanta, Ga., with the army in the Savannah campaigmi; marched to near Stone Mountain and encamped at midnight. November 16, marched at 8 a. m.~ Lient. Col. Allan H. Jackson relieved Maj. William H. Hoyt, and took command of the regiment. November 17, broke camp at 5 a. m. and marched first in line, guarding the train; passed through Sheffield; crossed Gum Creek; halted for the night four miles from Social Circle. November 18, marched at 5 a. in., passed through Social Circle, and advanced to within two miles of Madison. November 19, moved out with the Second Division omm a separate expedition; no figlmting occurred; joined the corps in compammy with the brigade amid division November 22, and entered the city of Milledgeville, Ga.; went into camp late at night. November 23, regimnemit lay still. November 24, marched until late at miight. November 23, crossed a large swamp and encamped for the night. November 26, advanced into Sandersville; One hundred and thirty-fourth New York Volunteers formed part of tlme grand guard of the division. November 27, the regiment assisted in destroying a part of the Georgia Central Railroad. November 28, assisted the brigade in guarding the corps headquarters train to time Statiomi No. 11. Novemn- ber 29, marched about seven miles, amid destroyed railroad track the remainder of the day. November 30, assisted in destroyimmg a railroad bridge across the Ogeechee River; marched fifteen miles at night to join the division. December 1, regiment marched imm advance of the ordnance train of the division. December 2, marched to l3uck H cad Creek and encamped for the night. December 3, guarded time traimi. December 4, marched with the brigade and went into camp 7 P. in. l)ecemnber 5, marched steadily all day. December 6, marched through a marshy country. I)ecember 7, had difficulty crossing swamps. l)ecemnber 8, advanced with division toward Savannah; did not encounter the enemy. Decemn- ber 9, advanced, with skirmishing in front; First Divisiomm met the enemy; Omie hundred and thirty-fourth New York Vohiiimteers, leading the Secomi Brigade, were ordered to slmpl)omt the First Division; ad- vammced splendidly on the double-quick; the eimemy retreated; reg Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND PLA. [CHAP. LVI. ment went on picket. 1)ecember 10, reolment remained on picket until 1 p. In.; advanced to within six miles of Savannah. December 11, moved at S a. iii. slowly toward the left; toak a position iii range of the enemys gulls; were relieve(l and took a 1)oSjtion oti the left, on the river-bank in ransze of the enemys guns. 1)eceniber 12, reglin eat lay still. December 13, had 1 coinniissioned ofhcer killed aiid I man wounded; at night regiiueiit crossed the river and fortified on hutch- insons Island. Deceniber 14, a dvance(l and took possession of rice mill and settlement, and fortified our posit ion ; held oar position un dci a severe artillery fiie from the enenmy (where w-e had (3 amen wounde(l and 1 killed) natil i)ecemnber 21. when the enemy lla(l evacllate(l time night before and the regiment advanced into the city of Savannah. WM. II. hOYT, Major, Corn iu a ndmnq J?eqiment. No. 110. Report oJ ilThj. Lewis I). Warner, (The hundred au(1 JiJty-Jourtlt New York In/(( JUry. HD~us. 154TH REGiMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Na cc itU((h, Ga., I)ecem ber 26, 1(561. COLONEL: lii obedience to the reqniremnemmts of circular of the 23d instant, I have the honor to make the following report ot the part taken by the One hundred amId fifty-fourth Regiinemmt New York Volun- teers, under my comnland, in the various nm()vemnents of time Army of Georgia from tIle 15th day of November to the 21st day of 1)ecember, 1864, inclnsive: November 15, marched at S a. iii. toward ])ecatnr, the regilnent leadimmg the brigade; passe(1 tlmroagh 1)ecatnr a}i(l elIcanIl)ed within three miles of Stone Mountain. Nox-emaber 16, marched at S a. in., Second Brigade lea(ling time corps; course, easterly alolig the line of the Georgia railroa(l. Novenlber 1 7, lmtarchle(l at 5 a. in.; course, tile same as yesterday. Noveulber 18, lIla rched at 5 a. in.; passed thromirgll tile village of Social Circle. and eIIc~imml1)ed withimi two miles of .Miidison. November 19, iii aicimed ~mt 5 a. ill.; 1)assed throngli Madison at daybreak; followed time line of time railroad, a colmsi(lerable portion of wilich we tore up amm(1 buimmed, amm(l encamped within two miles of the Ocoilee River. November 20, mnarclmed at 7 a. 1mm.; course, down the right bank of tile river toward Milledgeville. Novemmiber 21, marched at 7.30 a. m. in a southerly (limectiomi, passimig a bout six miles to the left of Eatommtomm. Novemnber 22, amarcited at 6 a. minm., the regi- inent leadimig the divisioim ; (Tossed Little River omi 1)olmtooml bridoc entered Milledgevihle at dark; crossed to left bammk of tile river aild encamnl)ed at 10 p. 1mm.; elltire reginment omin picket. Novemmiber 23, regi- inent Oil picket umitil near iiigllt., and w~ms thmell relieve(I by trool)s of Third Brigade; did not Imlarcil t.o-(lay. Novemminber 24, mnarcile(I at 7 a. in. toward Sandersviile. November 25, mmmamehe(l at 6.30 a. in.; passe(i through J-Jel)ron; halted imear Bumitaho Cmeek, while time l)ridge was beimmg rebuilt; crossed after (lark amm(1 emmcalmmj)e(1 on the lelt bank. November 26, marched at 6 a. 1mm.; regimmmemmt gllar(1 to brigade traimin ; reached San- (lersville about noomm halted umitil lle~irly umigilt amid then marched to the Georgia Central Railroad, which we struck at Tennihle Station Page 303 Cni~. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 303 moved easterly along the road about two miles and encamped. Novem- ber 27, roused up about 1 a. m. by a false alarni; moved the regiment to a new position; at 7 a. in. moved out Upon the railroad, halting to tear up and burn the track as we advanced; tollowed the railroad about five miles, and then niarched to Davisborough, where we ellcaml)ed at 10 p. m. November 28, brigade detailed to accompany the corps train to Spiers Station, to march at 1() a. in., the One hundred and fifty-fourth New York leading the brigade; reached tIme station at sunset; regiment on picket. November 29, marched at 7 a. iii. toward Station No. 10; reached here a.t 12 iii. and l)mIsSe(1 the remainder of the day teariiig up and burning the track from one mile west of the station to the Ogeechee River. ~ovember 30, passed nearly the whole day destroying the railroad bridge over the Ogeechee River; at 4 p. m. niarched to join the division, which was encamped imear Louisville- crossed the river here and encamped at 9 p. m. December 1, marched at S a. in.; regiment guard to headquarters Left Wing; course, southeast toward Millen. December 2, marched at 6 a. in.; course, same as yesteiday; crossed Buck head Creek and encamped near its eastern l)ank. 1)ecemuber 8 marched at 10 a. in.- regiment guard to (livision train; crossed time Augusta railroad about three miles north of Millen ~jnst at dark; nlove(l slowly on and en- camped at 10.30 p. m. December 4, marched at 10 a. in. in rear of corps an(l cavalry train; course, toward Springfield. 1)ecemuber 3, marched at 7 a. in.; conrse, same as yesterday. i)ecember 6, marched at 8 a. ma.; same course. December 7 marched at 7 a. ma. amid en- camlll)ed at 8 p. in. within one nille ot Springfield. December 8, marched at (3.3() a. in., passing through Springfield. December 9, marched at 7.30 a. mn; course, toward Savannah; some skirmishing in our fromit; regiment not engaged. December 10, Secommd Brigade marched back about two muiles aml(l took positiomi in rear of the train, which we were to guard this day; moved forward at 12 in.; struck the Charleston railroad just l)elore night amid ten miles from Savannali; encanll)e(1 at 8 p. mu. within five miles of time city. I)ecember 11 moved at 10 a. mu. toward time river; t(mok position in front of the enemy~s hues, which were covered by a canal and rice marsh; threw forward skirmishers and remmnned here for three hours when we weme re- lieved by the First Brigade, and nioved to time left and rear, and en- camped on time bammk of time river in re4mr of the hues of time Third Byigade, where we remained, furumi shing pickets for the river-bank and also heavy fatigue details br the fortifications in our front until the morning of December 21, when, the enemy having evacuated durimig the l)meced- ilig mmioht we moved forward imito the city, and ellcaml)ed just outside at the ternmimmus of Bull street. The casualties during the time covered by the above rej)ort were as follows.* Several others received slight imijuries from contusion by shells, which burst in camp at various times between the 11th and 21st. but the injuries were not sufficiently serious to call for a report. All of which is respectfully submitted. 1 am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. D. WARNER, Major, Commanding Regiment Col. P. II. JONES, Corn fly. sSeeond Brig., AVCOUd Dir., Twentieth Army Corps. Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 killed, 3 woundc(1, and 4 missing Page 304 304 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LYL No. 111. Report of Licut. Col. Charles C. Cresson, & veuty-third Pennsylvania Ljantry. IIDQRS. SEVENTY-THIRD PENNSYLVANIA VETERAN VOLS., savannah, ca., December 26, 1864.* When [November 15] we again broke camp and resumed the line of march, having an uninterrupted march, with little variety, subsisting chiefly on the country through which we passed, losing no men by straggling or capture, arriving in front of Savannah, (Ia., on the even ing of December 10, and took up position the day following on the bank of the river directly opposite the center of ilutchiusons Island, where we remained until the 14th instant, when I received orders from Col- onel Jones, commanding brigade, to cross my regiment to Hutchinsons Island and report to Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson, commanding forces on the island. I crossed my men in small boats about dusk and reported according to orders. We remained in this location, throwing up earth- works during the night to protect the mcii from the shelling of the enemy, who, from a gun-boat and a river shore battery, poured a con- stant fire at the mill around which we were l)osted. Owing to our exposed position we were unable to work during the day. The place being held as a point of observation, every exertion was made by me to obtain by persomial attention as much of the movements of the enemy as 1)OssiblC. On the evening of the 20th instant a noise was detected in the directioii of the city directly after dark, soun ding much like the laying of a pontoon bridge. Especial attention was paid to the noise for about two hours, when, feeling confident that the enemy were throw- ing a body of troops from the Georgia to the Carolina shore, my adju- taut, by order of Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson, crossed the river about 10 p. m. and reported the fact of the noise and the opinion of those on the island concerning the cause of it to Col. P. II. Jones, commanding Second Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps. The morn- big followingDecember 21, instantI was ordered to rejoin the bri- gade, which was then marching toward the city. Owing to the limited number of boats, my regiment was not all crossed until iiearly noon, when we marched in the city and joined it at about 3 p. m. December 21, 1864. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. C. CHESSON, Lient. Col., Comdg. Seventy-third Pennsylvania Vet. Vois. Capt. N. K. BRAY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 112. Report of Capt. Walter G. Dunn, One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania I4antry. History of the command of the One linndred and ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers from Novelllber 15, 1864, to Decem- ber 21, 1864: November 15,1864, left Atlanta, Ga.., at 7 a. in. and eucaml)e(l near Stone Mountain, Ga., at 2.30 a. in. on the Rock Bridge road. November For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part I, p. 672. - Page 305 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 305 16, on the march from 8.30 a. m. until night. November 17, 011 the march. November 18, left camp at 7.30 a. m. and encamped at night near Madison, Ga. November 19, 1864, Passed through Madison, Ga., at daylight, regimeiit in advance of the division destroying railroad. November 20, on the march destroying railroad at night and eiicamped. November 21, on the march. November 22, on time march; reached Milledgeville, Ga., at 6 p. m. November 23, lay in camp near Mil- ledgeville, Ga. November 24, left camp at 7 a. m. third regiment in line as train guard; encamped at 11 p. ni. near Gum Creek. November 25, on the march at 7 a. m. until noon; themi halted; at night-fall crossed swamp and Big Buffalo Creek and encamped. November 26, 0n the march; advance guard of the division passed through Sandersville, Ga., a encamped at night near the railroad. November 27, command was engaged in destroying railroad; encamped at ii p. in. near Davis- borough, Ga.; rear guard of division. November 28, on the march; guard on corps headquarters train; encamped at night at Spiers Turn- out. November 29, on the march at daylight, destroying railroad. No- vember 30, still destroying railroad; also railroad bridge; then crossed time river and encamped at 11 p. in. December 1, on the march. December 2, on the march all day; encamped at 4 p. m. near Buck Head Creek. I)ecemher 3, on the march; train guard; swampy country. I)ecember 4, 5, and 6, on the march, making slow progress on account of swamps amid poor roads. December 7, on the march at 8 a. in.; encamped at 8.30 p. in. near Springfield, Ga. December 8, passed Springfield, Ga., and encamped at 3.30 p. m. December 9, armus and accoutermemits inspected; then on the march and encamped at dark. December 10, left camp at day- light; rear guard on wagon traimi; marched till dark and encamped about five miles amid a half from Savannah, Ga. December 11, took l)OSition on river. Deceniber 12 to 20, still lying near time river doing picket duty and giving details for foraging expeditions; al so engaged in erecting fortificaions. Casualties were none. December 21, left our position and emitered Savannah, Ga., at 8 a. m. WALTER G. DUNN, Captain Company C, Corndg. 109th Regt. Pennsylvania Vols. No. 113. Report of Col. Henry A. Barnum, One hundred and forty-ninth New York im~fantry, commanding Third Brigade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIG., SECOND Div., 20TH ARMY CoRps, & ivannah, Ga., December 26, 1864. CAPTAIN :* November 15, the brigade with the division broke camp at 7 a. in. aimd marched out on Decatur street, amid at 9 a. in. took up the march. This command, being the rear of time Second l)ivisiomm in line, passed through Decatur and encaumped at 4 a. mu. of the 1(;th on the Rock Bridge road, fifteen miles from Atlanta. The One hundred and eleventh 1~emmmmsylvania Veterami Volunteers did not march with time brigade, but * For portion of report (here omitted) relating to operations about Atlanta, see Vol. XXXIX, Part 1, p. 673. 20 R UVOL XLI Page 306 306 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. remained in the city until the 16th to assist in the destruction of rail- roads and public buildings, and then joined the column of the Four- teenth Corps. ~ovember 16, marched at 8 a. in., passed Mountain Creek at 10 a. in. and Yellow River at 12 in., aiid encamped at 6 p. m. on Henrys farm. During the most of the afternoon the brigade was engaged in assisting the trains up steep and difficult hills. Made eight miles this day. November 17, marched at 5 a. in., this brigade in advance of corps. Crossed Big and Little ilaynes Creeks, also Gum Creek. Marched through Sheffield at 10 a. ni. and encamped at 5 p. in. near Ulcofauha- chee River. Days travel, sixteen miles. November 18, marched at 5 a. in., the brigade being distributed as traimi guard. Passed Social Circle at 9 a. in., and encamped near Madison at 6 p. in. Days travel, fif- teen miles. November 19, marched at 5 a. in., division being detached from main column; passed through Madison and along the Augusta railroad, and bivouacked at Blue Spring, near the Oconee River, at 4 p. m. Detachment destroyed the bridge over the Oconee River, and the balance of the command destroyed the railroad in the vicinity. Days travel, fifteen miles. November 20, marched at 7 a. m. and reached the Oconee River at 8 a. in. at Parks Planing Mills, which were destroyed, and encamped at Denhams Factory. 1)ays travel, fifteen miles. No- vember 21, marched at 7 a. m. Burned Denhains Factory, tan- nery, and adjacent buildings, except dwelling houses. Marched fif teen miles and encamped on Nesbits plantation at 6 p. in. November 22, marched at 6 a. m. and joined the main column at 12 m. Passed through the city of Milledgeville unopposed at about 7 p. in. Crossed the Oconee and encamped about one mile east of the city at 9 p. m. Days travel, fifteen miles. November 23, the One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers rejoined the brigade. The brigade marched to Midway, destroyed the station-house and rail- road to the city, including a large trestle bridge over Creek, and returned to camp at 6 p. m. Distance marched, six miles. November 24, marched at 6 a. m. and encamped at dark near Gum Creek, thirteen miles from Milledgeville. November 25, marched at 6.30 and reached Buffalo Creek at ~2 ni. Detained by destruction of bridges till 9 p. in. Crossed the ~i~ek and encamped. Days travel, eight miles. November 26, marched at 6 a. mu. Reached Sandersyille at 12 in. Skirmish by the advance. Formed line south of town, and at 1 p. in. marched to Tennille Station with the division and destroyed railroad toward Davisborough till 6 P. in., and encamped for the itight. Days travel, twelve miles. November 27, remmewed destruction of rail- road at 7 a. in., and at 12 in. marched toward Davisborougli, crossing Williamsons Swamp Creek, and encamping at Davisborough at 9.30 p. m. Days travel, fifteen miles. November 28, marched at 7 a. in. with division and returned to a point about eight miles from Davisborongim, amid commenced the destruction of the railroad where we left oft the day before. At about 2 p. in. this brigade was attacked by a force of cav- aIry, which was quickly repulsed and drivemi off with some loss. Had 1 man wounded and 4 men captured. At 5 p. iii. marched back to Davisborough and encamped at 7 p. in. Days travel, sixteen miles. November 29, marched at 6 a. in. to Spiers Station, thence to Bostwick, and encamped at 7 p. in. Days travel, nineteen miles. November 30, marched at 7 a. in. Crossed the Ogeechee River at 4 p. mu., and encamped at 7 p. mu. Days travel, temi miles. December 1, marched at 7 a. in., this brigade leading the corps, and biv- ouacked at 6 p. in. near Bark Camnp Creek. Days travel, thirteen miles. December 2, marched at 6a.m., crossed Buck Head Creek and encampe Page 307 CHAP.. LVII THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 307 near Buck Head Church. I)ays travel, eleven miles. December 3, marched at 12 in., passing near t~he prisoners stockade north of Milieu; crosscd the Augusta railroad at 7 p. in.; engaged the rest of the night in assisting the trajits over the almost iiiipassable roads, and bivouacked at 4 a. iii. December 4. Days travel, fifteen miles. December 4, marched at S a. in. and passed over a very bad road and bivouacked at 7 p. m. l)afs travel, fifteen miles. l)ecenlber 5, marched at 6 a. in.; crossed Crooked Creek at dark and bivouacked on east bank. Days travel, six- teen miles. December 6 marched at 7 a. in.; progress slo~v; bivouacked at 7 p. m. Days travel, nine miles. 1)ecember 7, marched at 7 a. In.; 104) wagons assigned to this brigade to assist forward; bivouacked near Springfield at S p. ni. Days travel, ten miles. I)eceinber 8, marched at 6.30, division being unencumbered with wheels; somewhat detained by the roads being blockaded; bivouacked at 5 p. iii. near Wadleys Mills. Days travel, ten niiles. 1)ecember 9, marched at 7.:30; at 4 p. m. the brigade was massed in support of First Division, which was confronted by the enemy iii works across the road; the enemy was soon routed and the command encamped at about 5 p. in. Days travel, nine miles. December 10, marched at 10 a. in., this command guarding train; crossed the Charleston railroad at 12 in.; moved down the Augusta road to within six miles of Savannah and encamped at 3p. m. 1)ays travel, temi miles. December 11, ordered to penetrate to the Savannah 1~iver and de. velop the enemys hue between the Augusta road and the river; marched at 7 a. in.; moved down the Augusta road to within about 1,200 yards of a battery of the enemy covering the road; filed left and marched toward the river and parallel to the enemys line, the One hundred and thirty-seventh New York Volunteers in advance as skir- mishers, who engaged those of the enemys at 10 a. mu. The skirmish line was extended to the left by time deployment of the One hundred and second New York Veteran Volunteers, until they reached the river. The skirmish line then closed in on the enemy, but found him strongly posted in the thick woods and in a strong line of pits. The skirmish line was strengthened and ordered to charge the emmenmys line, which, with loud cheers, was gallantly done. his line was routed and ran back in great disorder, our men following at a rapid ruin until they were opeiied upon with canister froIn a stron~ fort which had been concealed from our view by the woods. Our men had reached to within seventy-five yards of this work before it was thus discovered to them. They were ordered back to the enemys hue of 1)its, which was strength- ened and held until night, when the couimali(] threw up a strong breast-work with pits in advance, ammd the brigade occupied the line, which was only 150 yards from the fort, as has since beemi determhmed by actual measurement (for position of brigade see accompanying map).* December 12, the fort in front of the left of the brigade proved to be an advanced work, covering a canal connecting with the river, and through which the extensive swamps amid rice-fields in front of the euuemnys emmtire line was flooded. The brigade was subjected to a severe fire of artillery and musketry from this a(lvanced work, amud of artillery from his mai mu line. Ommi woik s were, however, coim siderably streum gtl meime(i ammd the position maimitained. l)eceinber 13 was a repetitiomi of the experiemuce of the 12th. December 14, at 12 a. in., wifh Captain Hobart amid eight men of his company froun the Sixtieth New York Veteran Volunteers, amid Capt. L. S. Willsoum, acting assistant inspector-general of brigade, the commnandimug officer of brigade, umade a close examination For map see p. 308 Page 308 308 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI Page 309 CHAP. LVI.) THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 309 of the canal and flooded fields in our front; also the dikes separating the fields to withuii 150 yards of the enemys main line, and determined the depth and width of the canal, the depth of water iii the fields, the width of the dikes and facilities for crossing. This examination was prosedute(l till 3 a. in. and the information obtained duly reported that morning, and this brigade was ordered to attack and carry the enemys advanced work before daylight of the morning of the 15th. IDecember 15, regimental commanders were ordered to get their men under arms at 12 a. in., which was promptly done, and the brigade was in full readiness for the work by 1 a. in. The battery which was to co-op- erate by a flank fire from the position, noted as Battery No. 2 on the accompanying map, was by some means (lelayed in getting into position and was not ready until 3.30 a.. in., besides which the First Brigade of this division, which with the Second Brigade was to support the movement, was prematurely marched along the immediate rear of our works, and much confusion ensued. It was a very cold night, and the stamping of the men upon the frozen grouiid and rekindling of the sub- dued fires was sufficient to alarm the enemy, who gave palpable evi- dence of being ready to receive us. This fact was reported to the brigadier-general commanding division, and the undersigned was directed to use his own discretion whether to proceed or to abandon the attack. The troops were ordered into position for assault. The Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers was in position on the beach of the river, the One hundred and thirty-seventh New York Vol- unteers mu the left of our works as reserve, and the Sixtieth New York Veteran Volunteers and One hundred and second New York Veteran Vol- unteers were in position in front of our works, and the One hundred and forty-ninth New York Volunteers and One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers nearly so, when Captain Lambert, of division staff, communicated the peremptory order of the general com- manding division to withdraw, which was reluctantly done at 4.15 a. in. December 20, other thami the above the brigade was engaged, dur- ing the occupation of this position, in building traverses in our works and otherwise strengthening them to protect the command from the almost continuous artillery fire from the enemys works and gun-boats which came up the river so as to enfilade our hue; also in constructing Batteries 1, 2, amid 3 in front of this division. Toward evening of this day indications aph)eared that the enemy was either evacuating or pre- paring to evacuate, and the picket was ordered to keep a close watch upon his movements. He kept up an uiiusually severe artillery fire along his entire line until 11 p. mu., when lie totally ceased his fire. December 21, at 12 a. in. the coininandamut of the brigade personally reconnoitered the enemys position and consulted with the brigade officer of the day, Capt. S. B. Wheelock, One hundred and thirty-seventh New York Volunteers. At 2.30 the reconnaissance was repeated and the conviction entertained that the works in our front were vacated, though an occasional discharge of artillery was heard far to the right. Ten men were furnished by Lient. Col. H. S. Chatfield, commanding the One hundred and second New York Veteran Volunteers, who were deployed in front of the picket-pits and, under direction of and accom- panied by the brigade officem- of the day and the commander, ad- vanced cautiously, and receiving no opposition entered the advanced works of the emmemy at 3.20 a. in. Time uuidersigned immediately dis- patched a staff officer to acquaint the brigadier-general commanding the divisiomi with this fact, amid ordered the brigade under arms and the One hundred and secoimd New York Veteran Volunteers into th Page 310 310 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI. works, and with the ten men advanced on the main line, crossing the flooded fields on the river-bank and the two dikes separating the fields and entering the eneuiys maui works at 3.40 a. in. Another staft~ offi- cer was immediately dispatched to communicate this flict to the general commanding division, and the brigade was put into the main line, and a strong skirmish line advanced 500 yards. The undersigned also placed gnards on all the gnus found in the enemys works from the Augnsta road to the river, eleven in number, seven of which were in the advanced work nearest onr line. The general comnmammding division having arrived farther operations were conducted nuder his direction. After waiting some time for the First and Second Brigades of this division to arrive this brigade was put in motion and marched through Axheys plantation to the Augusta road, the brigade moving in the fol- lowing order: One hundred and second New York Veteran Volunteers, One hundred and ftwty-ninth New York Volunteers, One hundred and thirty-seventh New York Volunteers, Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Vet- eran Volunteers, One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Veteran Vol- unteers, arid Sixtieth New York Veteran Volunteers, with a strong skir- mish line from the One hundred and forty-ninth New York Volunteers extending from the river to the Augusta road. The column then moved down the Augusta road, and at about half a mile from the junction of the Augusta road with the Charleston railroad was met by the mayor and a delegation of aldermen of the city with a flag of truce, who for- mally surrendered the city of Savannah. With lusty cheers at every step the column pressed forward and entered the city on West Broad street from the Augusta road, mnarchei down West Broad to Bay street, and down Bay street to the Exchange or City hall, from the bal- conyof which was displayed the national colors of tIme regiments of this brigade amid the division flag at 6 a. mu. By order of the general commanding division the Sixtieth New York Veteran Volunteers was left at the entrance of the city at the canal crossing as guard, with instructions to prevent any other troops from entering the city until quiet and order could be estabhislmed, aind the undersigne4 was also directed to disperse the riotous crowds of poor whites amud negroes, who were sacking the stores amid store-houses. This brigade was imnuedi- ately deployed throughout the city as patrols through tIre streets and guards over the various kinds of public property, ordiiance, and stores, and two companies of the One humudred and thirty-seventh New York Volunteers were sent to Fort Jackson, citizens were sent to their houses, and crowds dispersed and order amid quiet soomi established. At 8.30 a. in., the First arid Second Brigades having arrived, this bri- gade was assembled amid put by regiments iii sub-districts of that por- tion of the city bounded by Bull and Jommes streets and tIme canal and Savannah River, constituting about omme-third of the city. December 24, by order of General Geary, commanding (livisiomi amud post, the undersigned was appoin ted provost-marshal of thie west half of the city from Bull street, and the troops of this command continued as provost guard, at which duty they are still employed. In justice to the officers and men of this brigade it is here recorded that they were the first to discover the evacuation by the enemny of his works, the first to occupy them, the first to enter the city (the skir- mishers of the One hundred amid forty-uriuth New York Volunteers having entered the city hahf an huoun imi advauce of the brigade), the first to take possession of amid guard all the captured ordn~nce and stores of every kind in and below the city and iu the enemys works from tIme Augusta road to the river; that they captured tIme greater part of th Page 311 CHAP. LVI.] THE SAVANNAH CAMPAIGN. 311 prisoners taken, and until 8.30 a. m. of the 21st were the only orgaitized body of onr troops in the city. Casualties have been heretofore reported in detail, a summary of which is hereto attached; also a comparative statement of the effective force at the commencement and close of the campaign. Too much cannot be said in praise of the soldierly conduct of the men of this command generally throughout the campaign, and particularly since the occupation of this city; and the officers, with few exceptions, were worthy leaders of the men. Those who constitute the exceptions will not accompany us on the next campaign. My personal and depart- metital staff are hereby mentioned as exceedingly competent and faith- ful. The distance marched by this command from the time of leaving Atlanta until the occupation of Savannah was 325 miles. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H. A. BARNUM, Colonel 149th New York Volunteers, Commanding Brigade. Capt. W. T. FORBES, Assistant Adjutant- qeneral. Sununary of casualties in Third Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, for the campaign ending December ~1, 1864. Killed. Wounded. Missing. Severely. Slightly. Regiments. -- . . a a . . a a a a b~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 60th New York Veteran Volunteers ... -~ 2 1 2 6 102(1 New York Veteran Volunteers ....I 6 1 8 1 16 137th New York Volunteers 1 7 1 4 13 149th New York Volunteers 2 1 3 29th Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers 2 1 5 1 9 111th Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers 1 1 Total 3 2 22 2 13 6 48 Comparative report of effective force. Effective force Septemher 2, 1864 1, 199 Recruits received during campaign 128 1, 327 Effective force IDecemher 21, 1864 1, 435 Increase in effective force 236 No. 114. Report of Maj. Thomas Elliott, Sixtieth New York Infantr