June 4.—There has been skirmishing for some days. One day a fight at Ashland, another at Cold Harbour; but yesterday the heaviest cannonading I ever heard continued all day, until after dark. The fighting was between Bethesda Church and Cold Harbour. We were well fortified, and General Lee reports great success to our arms. “It is the Lord’s doings, and it is marvellous in our eyes.” We went to church this evening and returned thanks.

JUNE 4th—Showers and sunshine. It is believed Grant has lost 40,000 within the last week!

To-day there has been more or less cannonading along the line; but it is not known if any infantry were engaged.

The battalion to which Custis (my son) belongs is at Bottom’s Bridge, some sixteen miles distant on the Chickahominy; and I learn that the enemy shelled it yesterday and last night, without injury, shells falling short.

It is suspected that Sherman will be ordered from Georgia to reinforce Grant! It seems Lincoln would give up his hopes of heaven, and plunge into hell, for the PRESIDENCY.

The Commissary-General says Lee must beat Grant before the latter is reinforced, “or we are gone;” for their destruction of the railroads, north and northwest, will ruin us—the southern roads being insufficient to transport stores for the army.

My nephew, Col. R. H. Musser, trans-Mississippi, I am told by Senator Clark, was complimented on the field of victory by Gen. Taylor. His brigadier-general having fallen, Col. M. commanded the brigade.

Last evening, about 6 P.M., a cloud nearly overhead assumed the shape of a section of our fortifications, the segment of a circle, with the triangle penetrating through from the north. These shapes were distinctly defined. Could the operations beneath have produced this phenomenon? was it accidental? or a portent of the future? God knows!

June 4th, 1864.—Uncle Richard has just returned from Tallahassee. This morning the telegraph wires were working for the first time in four days. It brings us dreadful news, on the 2nd inst. a battle was fought at Cold Harbor, some of our Florida boys were wounded and two were killed. Colonel Henry D. Capers was desperately wounded and is now in the hospital. Seven of his battalion were killed; the names were not given.

Susan Bradford is 18 years old when this entry was made.

June, Saturday 4, 1864

This day has seemed like a month to me. I got up early and went to work to finish my white waiste , did not sew long before Hal came, on her way down to Dixie, we have been disapointed in getting Dr. Buntin to go with us, and Johnnie Armstrong is to be our escort to Pontotoc. Mrs. Wren will be with us to Senatobia. Mr. Seymour came this far with them, but returned to Memphis. Mr. Wilson came while they were here, did not have any late news, however we are confident of success, they are glorying over their victories from all points, yet say nothing with regard to the price of Gold. We had to disapoint Miss Tollison, Mr. Wilson carried the news. Hal and I each have a Spring wagon with our old Greys—I finished my waiste , my lunch fixed, and I believe everything is ready to leave now. We all sat in the Parlor after Tea—Father enjoyed the music very much. Sister Mary finished Helen’s Bridal Gown, came out to the room with it to pack. Hal is asleep, Laura, Tippie Dora and I awake, I am very sad in thinking it is the last night in some time—

June 3d. In camp near Harrisonburg. Sat up very late last night watching the Signal Corps using rockets and roman candles. A wonderful sight. Reported General Hunter is trying to get in communication with General Crook who is in the mountains making for Staunton, the same point that we are headed for. Hospital in town, containing a few wounded Union soldiers. Held as prisoners, were re-captured. Among them was Charlie Avery, a member of our company, wounded through the chest. He surprised us by coming into our camp asking for his brother Jim, also a member of our company. Up to this time we did not know whether he was alive. Could not remain with us, was obliged to return to the hospital. The weather hot, muggy, with heavy rain storms. Our shelter tents are poor protection in these hard storms, as the rain pours down. We try to keep as dry and as comfortable as we can. The boys keep in good spirits and do not growl very much.

3rd. Reinforcements coming in rapidly via W. H. and also Fredericksburg. 13th O. C. arrived. Saw paper of the 31st. News very encouraging. Reported move of rebel infantry around and to rear of Burnside’s right. Guess old Grant has fixed it so as to give them a warm reception. Rained yesterday and last night. Our troops in good spirits. 2nd Brigade in our advance. Fought over the ground near Salem Church where our Cavalry Corps had a severe fight with rebel infantry the day they crossed the Pamunkey. Col. Prescott, 1st Vermont, killed and Lt. Col. 1st Conn. wounded in the thigh. Rebs retreated beyond our fortifications. 1st Brigade Battery fired a little. Moved up to the outer works and remained till night. 2nd Brigade formed over to the left nearly at right angles to Burnside’s line. Three Divisions of rebel infantry, Heths of Ewell’s Corps, Rhodes of Hill’s, and one of Longstreet’s charged the flank of Burnside. Rebs were repulsed with great slaughter. 2nd Brigade did splendidly. The cross fire of artillery and musketry just mowed down the rebels. 1st Brigade moved back and formed where we formed in the morning. Slept till morning. Letter from home, May 15.

Friday, 3d–It rained nearly all day and changed the dust into mud, which made the marching very heavy. We left camp at 8 o’clock and leaving the valley, traveled over a spur of Lookout mountain nine miles across. We marched eighteen miles today and bivouacked on the Chattanooga river. We passed a house of mourning today where lay the body of the head of the family, he having been killed just a few days before in a battle with Sherman’s men. I never saw a sadder sight. The wife and daughters dressed in deep, rich mourning were most pitifully bewailing their loss. But some of our boys remarked that the people of the South had brought on this war themselves.

June 3, 1864.

Relieved the 6th Iowa at 6:30 this a.m. The Rebels shoot pretty close. Killed Orderly Sergeant of Company I, (VanSycle), and wounded three men in our regiment to-day. This makes 50 in killed, wounded and prisoners, or one in every six.

JUNE 3d.—Raining gently, and cool.

As early as 4 A.M. there was an incessant roar of artillery, the vibrations of which could be felt in the houses. It could be heard distinctly in all parts of the city. And ever and anon could be distinguished great crashes of musketry, as if whole divisions of infantry were firing at the word of command. It continued until 11 o’clock A.M., when it ceased. A dispatch from Lee stated that his line (behind breastworks, center and left) had been repeatedly assaulted, and every time the enemy was repulsed. The attack, it was supposed, was made to check a flanking movement made yesterday afternoon, by Gen. Ewell, on the enemy’s left, to cut his communications with the White House, his base of supplies. No doubt the slaughter has been great!

The dispatch from Beauregard indicates that he may be still on the other side of the river. It may be a ruse de guerre, or it may be that the general’s enemies here (in the government) are risking everything to keep him from participation in the great battles.

Mr. Hunter, being short and fat, rolls about like a pumpkin. He is everywhere, seeking tidings from the field. It is said the enemy, at last, has visited his great estates in Essex County; but he’ll escape loss “by hook or by crook.” He has made enormously by his crops and his mills: nevertheless, he would sacrifice all for the Presidency—and independence.

The President, yesterday, forbade details from the Department Battalion to remain in the city.

The Southern Express Company has bribed the quartermasters, and is at its work again, using fine horses and stout details that should be in the army. Its wagon was at the department to-day with a box of bacon for Judge Campbell.

About 800 prisoners were marched into the city this afternoon, and it is believed many more are on the way.

Cannonading was heard again in a northeast direction this evening from 6 till 8 ½ o’clock, when it ceased—perhaps the prelude to another scene of carnage to-morrow!

June, Friday 3, 1864

Laura awakened me this morning at daylight. Mr. Wilson came to breakfast—had no later news than yesterday. We have everything to be thankful for, our Armys have, by the grace of God, been victorious so far. Mr. W. did not stay long after breakfast, will return tomorrow—

Joanna went over Nonconnah today. Hal has not been able to get a horse yet, but expects to be along tomorrow. I hope she may, for Father is so anxious for us to get off, did not hear any news from that direction. This has indeed been a gloomy day—cloudy and raining all day—Father spent the day in his big chair reading “Small house at Allington.” Aunt Patsy, Sister Mary & I spent the day in Tate’s room—I have almost finished my white swiss body. Sallie and Frank have been caged today, and right noisy. I wrote a letter for Marguerite after tea to her Mother in Holly Springs—the rest all in the Parlor. Laura and I alone except Tippe Dora who is nodding. I expect this is the last quiet night we will have for some time to come.

June 2nd. On the march again, on through New Market. As we go pushing up the valley, our advance are again having a hot time, judging by the booming of the guns. Passed the Lincoln Springs, a fine body of water coming out of the ground. The force is strong enough to drive a mill. A good drink from its cold water. There are many fine springs in this valley. Our boys are driving the Rebs as they advance. Report comes that our cavalry boys have taken Harrisonburg. Hard marching over these rough, stony roads. Very tired tonight.

June 2nd. Lay in camp near Hanover C. H. at Dr. Price’s till dark when we moved towards White House. Went into camp about 2 A. M.

Thursday, 2d–A fine shower about noon cooled the air and laid the dust. The entire corps lay in camp all day, the men washing and mending their clothes, and the blacksmiths shoeing the horses and mules. We are in the valley between the Sandy and Lookout mountains, which are heavily timbered with pine and ash. The quartermaster’s trains were sent out on forage today, but although the farms in the valley are fairly good, there is little to be had, for the few farmers thought it useless to grow crops this summer.

June 2, 1864.

The 40th Illinois returned to-day, and I was right glad to see them back. We have lost no men to-day. The 17th Army Corps is beginning to come in. We advanced our works last night, commencing a new line in front of our regiment. The Rebels didn’t fire at us once, though they might as well killed some one as not. Colonel Wright and ten men picked out the ground and then I took a detail and went to work. By daylight we had enough of rifle pit to cover 50 men and had the men in it. I tell you it waked them up when our boys opened upon them. This is getting on the Vicksburg order. The troops are in splendid spirits and everything is going on as well as could be wished. I think this thing will be brought to a focus in a few days.

Washington June 2^nd 1864

No very great addition has been made to our stock of information in reference to army movements since my last date. Gen^l Grant had a pretty severe fight on Monday last (30^th ult) but no particulars as yet. His army is near Mechanicsville some five or six miles north of Richmond. A portion of Butlers Army formed a Junction or Joined Grants army last week (under Gen^l “Baldy” Smith). It is now said that Gen^l Lee is inside of the entrenchments of Richmond. I imagine that it is where Grant wants him. I think he will cut off supplies from the City and compell Lee to evacuate or Surrender. Grants army is now supplied from the “White House” on the Pamunky River, Gen^l M^cClellans old Depot, during the “Peninsula Campaign.” Gen^l Sherman was driving “Joe” Johnson before him through Georgia and was not far from Atlanta at last accounts.

JUNE 2d.—Very warm and cloudy.

There was no general engagement yesterday, but heavy skirmishing, and several assaults at different points; and a dispatch from Gen. Lee says they resulted favorably to our arms.

A dispatch from Gen. Johnston says his men are in good plight, after combats enough to make a battle, in all of which the enemy suffered most.

The local troops (Custis’s battalion, etc.) were ordered out today. I have not understood to what point they were ordered; but it indicates the imminency of a battle. Lee has not less than 80,000 men–veterans.

I saw, to-day, Gen. Beauregard’s plan, dated May 14th. It was addressed to Gen. Bragg, “Commanding Confederate States Armies.” He suggested the falling back on the defenses of Richmond, and detaching 15,000 to the south side to crush or drive away Butler. He would then not only return the 15,000 to the north side, but bring over 25,000 additional to crush Grant.

This scheme was rejected by Bragg on the 19th, after consultation with the President and the Secretary: the latter indorsing his concurrence in the rejection, the President not committing himself in writing. But Beauregard was ordered to attack Butler without delay, which was done, and successfully; but he was not crushed, and still threatens our railroads with a portion of his army, while the rest has been sent to reinforce Grant.

Nevertheless, Beauregard is here with some 20,000, and Lee did fall back to the defenses of Richmond.

Congress has passed a bill increasing the compensation of themselves 100 per cent. Perhaps they will not adjourn now, but remain and await events.

Senator Hunter and the Secretary of War promenaded the Square yesterday afternoon in a long “confabulation,” supposed by some to relate to political matters.

5 O’CLOCK P.M.–Heavy and quick cannonading heard some eight or ten miles east of the city. It continued until night, when it was raining and cold; and Custis had no blanket, not anticipating such a change.

June 2nd, 1864.—There are many aching hearts in our land these bright, beautiful summer days. If it was not for the little children, who do not realize the danger we are facing, I do not believe we could stand it. Bless their dear young hearts, which are so light that they overflow with merriment no matter how black everything looks to us.

Fighting is almost continuous now and there is not standing room around the bulletin board, to do more than get a hurried glance at the list of “Killed, Wounded and Missing.” Oh, those horrible words, I seem to see them in letters of fire when I wake in the night.

Father has a very sick patient and Mother is helping to nurse him. Mrs. Manning, Aunt Robinson and I have been busy packing a large box of clothing to be sent tomorrow to the army of Northern Virginia.

A late supper of rice-cakes, Irish potatoes and squabs, cooked in Adeline’s best style, finished the day. It is now 10 o’clock and everybody ought to be abed and asleep. We will not hear from the front tonight. May the news, when we hear it, be good.

Susan Bradford is 18 years old when this entry was made.

June, Thursday 2, 1864

I slept late this morning. Laura brought me a cup of Coffee to my room, which I enjoyed. We had a very quiet day, after the great excitement of the two days just passed—very cloudy & showery. I have made me a nice traveling sun-bonnet, and began my white swiss waiste—did not get very much done to it. Not one word from Hal yet, think very strange, as she was almost sure of coming yesterday morning. Joanna will go over tomorrow to see what is to pay—Anna Bradinaz came over this evening for Miss Tollison to see when we were going. Sallie Hildebrand came to get me to take her Brothers, in Jackson’s Cavalry, some things. Mr. Wilson and Mr. Rutland were here this morning, no late news, did not come in the house, as we are in constant dread of another raide from the Yankees—Aunt Patsy, Father, Joanna, Sister Mary and I spent the eve together discussing passing events of our household—Frank and Sallie retired early—now Laura, Tippie Dora and I all alone—

June 1st. In camp waiting for orders to advance. Skirmish drill during the forenoon. This afternoon went to the Shenandoah River. Gave my clothes a good washing, which they needed. Remained in the water, having a good bath and swim, until they were dry. It did not take long in the hot sun. No change of raiment for a soldier in the field. Managed to carry one extra pair of woolen stockings. Army brogans for soldiers. Marching orders received.

June 1st. Skirmishing all the way to Ashland under McIntosh. 5th N. Y. in advance. Soon after reaching Ashland rear was attacked. Then commenced a fight lasting till near sundown, when we left up the R. R. track by order of Gen. Wilson, who was on the telegraph road with the remainder of Div. Reached Hanover C. H. about 11 P. M., the object of the movement being accomplished, viz.: bridges over the North Anna were destroyed. Again the 2nd O. V. V. C. did splendidly–probably saving the Brigade.

Wednesday, 1st–Our brigade started at 5 this morning, but covered only twelve miles. We marched down the Sandy mountains into the valley and went into bivouac along the banks of Sandy creek. The rear of the army did not get into camp until midnight. The wagon trains could move but slowly over the rough, rocky roads, and even then the teams are almost worn out. Many of the horses and mules lost their shoes and have broken hoofs and sore feet. Large foraging parties are sent out, but because of the poverty of the country they do not get much.

Five miles west of Acworth,
June 1, 1864.

At daylight this morning we left our position on the right and moved over here, six or seven miles, and relieved Hooker’s 20th Corps, which moved around to the left. It was ticklish business moving out from under at least 30 of the enemy’s guns, and we did it very quietly. They did not suspect it. We are now within 90 yards of the Rebel works, and the shooting is very lively. Only one of our regiment wounded to-day. I would much rather be here than where we were, for there they shot at us square from three sides, and here they can but from one front. This is dense woods and the ground between our works nearly level. There are two lines of works here, 30 yards apart; we occupy the rear works to-day, but will relieve the 6th Iowa to-morrow and take the front. This is the ground that Hooker had his big fight on on the 25th of May. He lost some 2,000 men killed and wounded. The woods are all torn up with canister, shell and shot, and bloody shoes, clothing and accoutrements are thick.

JUNE 1st.—Bright and warm.

At 7 ½ A.M. cannon and musketry heard northeast of the city, which either ceased or receded out of hearing at 12 M.; or else the hum of the city drowned the sounds of battle. Up to 3 P.M. we have no particulars. Beauregard is on the right of our line; Lee’s headquarters was at Yellow Tavern. He is sufficiently recovered to direct the battle.

Butler has mostly if not entirely evacuated Bermuda Hundred; doubtless gone to Grant. The President rode out this morning toward the battle-field. Every one is confident of success, since Beauregard and Lee command.

The Secretary of War granted a passport to Mr. Pollard, who wrote a castigating history of the first years of the war, to visit Europe. Pollard, however, was taken, and is now in the hands of the enemy, at New York.

Another row with the Bureau of Conscription. Brig.-Gen. Chilton, Inspector-General, has been investigating operations in Mississippi, at the instance of Gen. Polk; and Col. Preston, Superintendent of the Bureau, disdains to answer their communications.

My landlord, Mr. King, has not raised my rent!

June, Wednesday 1, 1864

Tate had me awakened at daylight this morning—they had some trouble and confusion before we started. I drove my Spring wagon, with Tate, Bettie, Robert and Nannie as passengers. Helen rode horseback on old McGruder—Uncle Elam, Willie Perkins and Peter with the baggage went in the Wagon. We traveled very slow, arrived at Col. Perkins half past ten, with no accident, and a very pleasant trip, Mr. Read’s wagon had been waiting since daylight for them, so as quick as the baggage could be changed they started on for Dixie, and I hope are safe in Confederate lines tonight. Nannie and Harison stoped at Mr. Reid’s in Hernando last night, left at daylight. God forever protect her from the tyranny of her Mother and the Yankees, ’tis an awful step, but I trust it is right—Mr. Wilson came to Col. Perkins some time after they had left, was very much disapointed at not seeing them, he, Mr.
Crawford, the children and I spent a very pleasant day. Mr. Wilson came some of the way with us, we had an awful time from Horn Lake in a thunder storm, arrived at home, found Father composed & satisfied. We all spent eve in the Parlor—Laura and I all alone.