Tuesday, 5th–Our men are still advancing. The Eleventh Iowa made a charge on the rebels’ left, on Nick-a-Jack creek, and took one line of rifle pits. We lost a few in killed and wounded. William Cross of Company E was killed by a piece of shell from the rebels’ batteries; he had returned from the hospital to his company only about two weeks before. I am still in the hospital and no better. It is quite sultry today.

4th. Spent the day very quietly in camp. Have been great rumors as to today’s proceedings, but nothing has occurred as we hear.

July 4th. The day we celebrate. At dark last night the boat tied up at Charleston. Went ashore for a while. The town is located on a bluff, which we had to climb to reach it. As we saw it in the dark, it was a dirty looking place. Perhaps because it was a mining town. The boat left at daylight, going on, down the river. The boat being flat bottomed, to sail in shallow water, we came near tipping the thing over as we made a rush to one side, something having attracted our attention. The officers of the boat let out a yell “Trim ship!” and then explained that we must not do such a thing. We got our lesson, the way the boat tipped. We were careful after that.

Having a good time, as the boat goes slowly down the river, taking in all the points of interest. As we are near the Ohio River we pass Point Pleasant, on the Virginia side. Here we leave the Kanawah River and are out on the O-hi-o. Surprised when the boat headed down the river, as we supposed we were going up. After a run down the Ohio, about four miles, we landed at Gallipolis, and were ordered to go ashore. In the early morning, on the Kanawah River, we were allowed to celebrate for a while, by discharging our muskets.

At Gallipolis, Ohio, we were ordered to wait for a larger boat to take us up the river. Here the people were very kind, tried to make our stay happy. I bought a quart tin pail to use, taking the place of the one shot through at the battle of Piedmont. It had a cover, bail handle. Up to this time I had used an old fruit can to make coffee in. While waiting for the boat, conversed with the people, who were very kind to us. Informed us it was reported Hunter’s army was starving in the mountains of West Virginia. He was censured by the people and the press. It was also reported he could have taken Lynchburg, had he got there the day before. That could have been done by not stopping so long at Staunton and Lexington. I often wonder whether a true history of Hunter’s raid to Lynchburg would ever be written and published.

As soon as the large boat arrived we were quickly on board, going up the O-hi-o. This being a holiday, many people were along the banks celebrating. They greeted us with cheers, firing guns. Whenever the boats came near the shores, the people came with baskets, filled with bread, cakes, and pies, and threw to the soldiers. It was laughable to see us catch pies. As our hands caught one, they would generally go to pieces, making many a hearty laugh. The people seemed to enjoy the fun while watching us eat whatever we caught. This trip up the Ohio River is very enjoyable, except when the boat runs aground or sticks on a sand bar. Then we were obliged to wade ashore, and perhaps walk from one to two miles, or until the boat got into deep water. At this time the river is very low. The boat seems to find all the sandbars. Shouting and cheers greet us as we go up the river. The boats carrying the soldiers were overloaded. A memorable trip for the 18th Connecticut Regiment. Owing to the low water, the boat will tie up for the night. The rest and change is very beneficial, also gave us time to talk over the past two months. It am very thankful that I was able to keep my place in the ranks, and not obliged to fall by the wayside. It is claimed we marched over seven ranges of mountains. Passed through four battles, six skirmishes, since we left Martinsburg. At times our suffering has been intense. Feel that we have suffered much for our country.

I am detailed to take charge of the guard for tonight, on board the boat, while tied up to the shore. Guard duty is kept up at all times. At times must act as a sergeant.

July 4, 1864.

I count it the hardest Fourth I have seen in the service. About 8 a.m. we moved out, passed through Marietta, which is by far the prettiest town I have seen South (about the size of Canton), and continued south nearly all the way along our line of works. Marched about 11 miles. Not more than one-third of the men stacked arms when we halted for the night; fell out along the roads. I have seen more than 1,000 prisoners and deserters.

JULY 4th.—Cloudy, but still hot and dry.

From the clouds of dust seen rising between Petersburg and the James River, it is conjectured that Grant’s army is in motion.

The Federal Congress has authorized the drafting of 200,000 more men, after 60 days’ fruitless attempt to raise volunteers. So it will be September before the draft, and January before the men will be soldiers.

July, Monday 4, 1864

Today is the Anniversary of the decleration of our forefather’s independence, one year ago was a sad one for the happiness of our Southern Confederacy,—Vicksburgh surrendered by Pemberton to Grant. Many changes and sad days since that event, but thanks to a just and merciful God our hopes are brighter than at any time since we have been struggling for Independence. May the God of Battles defend our cause, protect our Armys from danger & disease, and crown them with glory and success. Tate, Hal, Mrs. Galloway, Miss Watlington & Mrs. Samples all spent the day at Gen. Forrest’s Hd. Qts. Bettie, Mamie & Rob, of course, along. Maj. Leverson came for us, I do like him so much, he is so kind and attentive. We had a delightful day. Gen. Forrest & Lady very kind. We saw all of our friends, too numerous to name. Maj. Leverson brought us home this eve. Tate went riding on horseback with Bro. Brodie, we heard Ford Rodgers was not expected to live, Hal knows nothing of it, I pray it may be untrue. God bless my dear Father and Brothers. We spend the day in Tupelo again tomorrow—

Washington Saturday July 9^th 1864

A week ago I intended to be at home now but I cannot well leave the office at present as there is now something of a press of business with the Examining Board. More than that I would not like to leave the City while the Rebels are threatening it. There is very “exciting times” just now up in Maryland and in Pennsylvania. A large force of rebels have crossed the Potomac within two or three days and tonight it is reported that they occupy the City of Frederick, M.D. The rebel force is estimated at all numbers from five thousand to thirty thousand. It is supposed that they will make an attempt upon this City or Baltimore next. Some squads of rebel Cavalry have been within fifteen miles of this City within two or three days on this side of the Potomac. This rebel “raid” is supposed to be intended to draw Grant away from Richmond to Defend Washington. But that “ruse” will not do. I think that will be done without Grant.

July 4^th 1864 (Monday)

No organized Celebration of the Day has taken place here, but all seem to [have] celebrated more or less on their “own hook.” There were orations delivered by gentlemen residing here at some of the Hospitals and the inmates had extra fare &c. I met Cap^t Sebastian Holmes of Lyons in the morning and we went together to the Capitol. Congress was still in session but adjourned at half past twelve today. I was at the Carver Hospital yesterday. Saw a Wayne Co boy there badly wounded by the name of Page. He is a brave and plucky fellow but will probably die, his mother is with him. I was at the Stanton and Douglass Hospitals today. The cases in all the Hospitals here now are very bad ones, all those able to travel having been sent north. I think that at least one third now in Hospital here will die. The hot weather is very unfavorable, from fifty to seventy deaths are reported pr day. No important army movements have taken place. A large force of Cavalry under Gen^l Wilson have succeeded in destroying Thirty or forty miles of the Danville & Richmond R Road, but got roughly treated on their return by the rebels looseing a good many men and some eight or ten “guns” besides their train. There has been no serious fighting before Petersburgh very recently. Gen^l Grant has probably concluded to cut off the supplies from Richmond and conquer the City in that way. He is posted now with his whole Army in the vicinity of the James River, his lines extending to the southern R. Road south of Petersburgh. He has Batteries planted which throw Shells into the City daily, one in every ten minutes. The soldiers call it the “Petersburgh Express” which runs regularly to the City. I heard from Maj (now Lieut Co^l) E P Taft the other day. He was on duty at the “front.”

Monday, 4th–Our corps is still moving forward, and it is now along Nick-a-Jack creek. We learned here in the hospital that the corps lost several men killed and wounded in the skirmish fights yesterday. This has been a hard day for me, as I have to lie in the open without any shelter over me, the hospital tents being so crowded with the wounded. I have been taking some strong medicine the last two days, in the hope that it would break up the fever.

Sunday, 3d.—Last night at 10 o’clock started and marched all night, and camped eight miles from Chattahoochie River. Brother I. L. sick and sent to hospital.

(Note: picture is of an unidentified Confederate soldier.)

3rd. Went to City Point with Kelly. Had a real good visit with Brother John. Seemed splendid to see him. Got back to the corps about dusk. Visited the Sanitary. Big thing. (Prof. John M. Ellis was serving on the Christian Commission at City Point.)

July 3, 1864.

Rebels all gone this morning. Our boys were on the mountains at daylight. Hundreds of deserters have come in. Osterhaus moved around the left of the mountain to Marietta, all the rest of the army went to the right of it. We are about one-half a mile from town; have not been in. All who have, say it is the prettiest place we have seen South. Some artillery firing has been heard this p.m. five or six miles south, and there are rumors that an advance has captured a large number of prisoners, but nothing reliable.

JULY 3d.—Clear and dry; pleasant temperature.

I learn that Petersburg has not been much injured by the enemy’s batteries, and that Gen. Lee has ordered the casting of mortars for use immediately.

To-morrow being the anniversary of the surrender of Vicksburg to Grant, I should not be surprised if that general let off some fire-works, not only in commemoration of that event, but in pursuance of some desperate enterprise against Richmond. I don’t see how he can feel any veneration for the day of independence for the “rebels” of 1776, without sympathy for the “rebels” of 1864, struggling also for independence.

After the failure of the enemy’s next move, I think the tempest of war will rapidly abate. Nearly every movement in this (I think final) effort to capture Richmond has failed. Sheridan failed to destroy the Central, Hunter the South Side, and Wilson the Danville Railroad—each losing about half his men and horses. Grant himself, so far, has but “swung round” a wall of steel, losing 100,000 men, and only gaining a position on the James River which he might have occupied without any loss. On the other hand, Lee wields a larger army than he began with, and better armed, clothed, and fed.

This ought to end the vain attempt at subjugation. But if not, the Confederate States, under the new policy (defensive), might maintain the contest against a half million of invaders. Our crop of wheat is abundant, and the harvest over; our communications will be all re-established in a few days, and the people being armed and drilled everywhere, the enemy’s raiders will soon be checked in any locality they may select as the scene of operations. All the bridges will be defended with fortifications. Besides, Lee is gathering rapidly an army on the Potomac, and may not only menace the enemy’s capital, but take it. Early and Breckinridge, Imboden and Morgan, may be at this moment inflicting more serious injury on the enemy’s railroads and canals than we have sustained in Virginia. And it is certain the stores of the Federal army in Georgia have been captured or destroyed to a very serious extent.

Still, in this hour of destitution and suffering among certain classes of the people, we see no beggars in the streets.

Likewise, notwithstanding the raiding parties penetrate far in the rear of our armies, there has been no instance of an attempt on the part of the slaves to rise in insurrection.

July, Sunday 3, 1864

This day will be long remembered. Bro. Geo. & Brodie went to Tupelo early. Hal, Tate and myself, with Bettie and the Children, started to Church at Tupelo in the Ambulance with Alfred to drive us. We got along very well until within a mile of Tupelo, had just passed through the Webfoot Cavalry Camp, saw them on parade and enjoyed the different scenes in Camp, reached the Creek, were undecided for some time whether to go over the bridge, or ford, the latter seemed best, so off we drove, and just entering the mud hole when the Ambulance upset, with a terible crash—in a few minutes fifty soldiers ran to our rescue, and a Mr. Harris (did not learn his title) who was exceedingly kind. I was first out, Alfred jumped out with Robert as the Ambulance fell, Bettie kept Mary close to her. Tate went on top of Hal, they were all very mudy , no limbs broken. We went on to Hd. Qrs. saw a great many friends, too late for Church, returned to dinner. Eddie and John Cummins spent day with us. Capt. Sheperd, Capt. Barber and Maj. Crump called this eve—we all went to Negro prayer meeting after tea.

July 3d. No boats showed up last night. This morning finds us still waiting at Camp Piatt. Yesterday’s march was a hard one. We are resting while waiting. Up and down hill over these old stony roads makes a fellow tired and used up. At noon two boats arrived. They had large stern wheels and flat bottoms. The first I ever saw. About two o’clock we marched on board and were soon under way, leaving Camp Piatt, sailing on down the Kanawah. Weather fine and we were enjoying the trip. A pleasant change. Scenery grand on the river through this mountainous country. Salt, iron, coal, in these mountains along each side of the river. The boats are going very slow down the river. We are in no hurry. We make good use of the time, eating and sleeping whenever we feel like it. Night coming on, reported we will tie up for the night and start by daylight tomorrow morning.

Sunday, 3d–All is quiet. Our men are still marching around to the right. The Seventeenth Corps drove the rebels back about two miles, taking one line of their works. Wagon trains are going by the hospital day and night, and the roads are getting very dusty.

Saturday, 2d.—Reported Yanks have cut railroad between here and Atlanta.

(Note: picture is of an unidentified Confederate soldier.)

2nd. Rations of forage and commissary. Marched about 8. Went by the 9th Corps. Maj. Seward, Meeks, Thede and I rode over to Wilcox’s Div. and saw Reeve Spencer. Went up to the line and saw the 60th Ohio. Got popped at twice by sharpshooters, and were careful too. Took dinner with Reeve. Our works strong but rebel works full as strong and occupying more commanding ground and much of the ground in rear of our 1st line. Sharpshooters doing much damage. About 20 hit each day in the Div. Interested in the heavy works taken by the 18th Corps and by the Darkies. Saw quite an artillery duel between a heavy battery on our side and reb battery on the other side of Appomattox. Petersburg in plain view. Splendid time. Rode down to City Point and thence to Light House Point where we found our corps, about 200 2nd O. V. V. C. quite encouraging. The Detachments came down behind us.

July 2, 1864.

We have been taking it easy since the charge. Our shells keep the Rebels stirred up all the time. Sham attacks are also got up twice or three times a day, which must annoy them very much.

JULY 2d.—Hot and dry.

A dispatch from Gen. Lee (will be published on Monday) says Gen. Beauregard reports the number of prisoners taken from Wilson’s south side raiding party about 1000, besides the killed and wounded, and several hundred negroes recaptured, 13 guns, many small arms, wagons, etc. It is said the killed and wounded amount to 1500, of whom there are not exceeding 300 of the latter, leaving 1200 killed.

Gen. Morgan has got back to Western Virginia with 1800 men, having lost but 200. He did not fight a battle with Gen. Burbridge at all; hence the Federal account of Morgan’s defeat was without foundation. Morgan will probably soon be in Maryland and Pennsylvania, attending to the enemy’s railroads, bridges, mills, etc.

The President said (so reported) to Dr. Garnett, yesterday, he hoped to hear of no more raids, since the last fared so badly.

I drank two cups of coffee this morning, which seem to have had an extraordinary effect upon my strength, activity, and spirits; and indeed the belief that the discontinuance of the use of this beverage, about two years ago, may have caused the diminution of all. I am, and have long been, as poor as a church mouse. But the coffee (having in it sugar and cream) cost about a dollar each cup, and cannot be indulged in hereafter more than once a week. We had also boiled beans to-day, followed by fritters, the cherries from our garden, with sugar-sauce. This the family consider a sumptuous dinner—with no meat!

July, Saturday 2, 1864

We have spent a delightful day, Capt. Barber, Maj. Allen and Lt. Doyle spent the day with us. Robert went to Tupelo with his Papa. Hal’s Bro. Frank was to see us. Mr. Pugh returned from his trip with Nannie, brought Mrs. Galloway and Miss Walington with him, he went on to Tupelo, Bruce went in the Ambulance with him. We had a gay time, Mrs. Galloway is as lively as can be. Mr. Galloway, Maj. Crump and Bro. Geo. came out in the Ambulance this evening from Tupelo—poor Maj. he is quite sad that his honeymoon should so early be blighted, however Man proposes, God disposes. No late war news, nor any from home—the Yanks are moveing slowly through the Country, rather shy of Mr. Forrest and his Company. I wonder when this horrible war will be over, if the scenes now passing will be remembered. I must cease for to Night, the Bats are so bad. Hal, Bettie and I have already had a race with one, and hard to say which is the greatest coward.

July 2nd. Routed out early this morning, a hot one. Packed up, ready to march. We bid farewell to our good camp, where we received so much pleasure in this section of West Virginia. After a march of twenty-six miles over a very rough, stony road, along the banks of the Kanawah River, we came to a halt at a place known as Camp Piatt, near the river. The march was a hot one, causing much suffering to the men. No air in this valley.

Informed we take boat at this point for Parkersburg, West Virginia. Rations very plenty at this point. All horses and wagons are to be sent overland, a distance of one hundred miles. Waiting for the boats to arrive.

Saturday, 2d–All the sick have been removed to the field hospital in the rear of the army. I was brought here to our division field hospital, near Big Shanty, with a few others. Our army supplies at Big Shanty have been removed by the general quartermaster, as the army has been ordered around to the right. The Fifteenth, Sixteenth and Seventeenth Corps are leaving the left flank altogether, and are hastening to the right wing. The rebels have now left Kenesaw mountain and Marietta and have moved around to their left so as to keep our right from flanking them.

Friday, July 1st.—Heard that Cousin Robert Magill died at Marietta next morning after he was wounded. Brother Tom went to town and got his watch and pocket-book. Gave them to Mr. Cox to take home to his parents, as he was here and expected to go back home. Mr. Cox was never heard of again.

(Note: picture is of an unidentified Confederate soldier.)