E. Griffin   Transf’d June 12

Chattanooga July 1^st 1862 Tuesday

Drill this morning on horses.  Dr. Weston left for Texas.  am suffering with very bad cold & feel quite unwell from its effects.

Wednesday July 2^nd

Drill this morning.  ordered to prepare three days rations for a scout to leave at 9 a.m. tomorrow.  Col Walker arrived.  hand stiff from effects of wound rec’d at Woodsonville fight.  Cold not yet relieved.

Thursday July 3^rd

All ready and on the road to Chattanooga by 9 a.m.  cross the river & bivouac on the other side, the day is spent in crossing the regiment.

Friday July 4^th

Today has passed as any other day with nothing transpiring worthy of recording,  how different from my boyhood days, when the time was counted & the 4^th of July was looked forward to as a day of rejoicing.  When the war is at an end

we will have a day to rejoice in besides this one we have as much right to claim as the yankees.  Col. Wharton returned to Chattanooga, we moved camp a mile on account of water and waited his return,  after which we mounted again and moved again & traveled some 8 miles, camp for the night, Col. Scott’s cavalry crossing the river, so I am told.

Saturday July 5^th

No movement made today - learn through Telegraph (11 p.m. yesterday) that there are 45 thousand yankees 13 Genls all camp equipage ammunition etc. captured by our victorious army in Virginia.  We have to thank god for this signal success to our arms and by putting our trust in him hope for a speedy termination of these distressing & heartrending times.  Ordered at roll call this evening to sleep upon our arms to have saddles convenient and in case of an attack to [torn].  The cause of those orders are they have information that the enemy are at McMinville some 10 thousand strong.  it may or may not be reliable.

Sunday July 6^th

Understand we move at a very early hour in the morning.  the brigade is now under command of Col. Scott, he being ranking officer.  I learn Col. Forrest has been ordered to Knoxville, am on picket tonight.  think the orders given last night premature, caused doubt by reports of citizens.

Monday July 7^th

Camp is moved some 3 miles [toward]  the mountains are now some 13 or 14 miles from Chattanooga.  Am still on picket, will be relieved this evening.

Tuesday July 8^th

Nothing interesting in camp.  At dusk we are mounted and on the road cross Waldrons ridge a [spur] of the cumberland

mts at [torn] balance of the night at Dunlap, about 2 a.m.  We have traveled since dusk some 20 miles.  The night was beautiful & were it not that I was tired sleepy & having nearly choked to death with the dust would have enjoyed the ride very much.

Wednesday July 9th

Up & in the saddle a little after sun up.  Go some distance down Sequatchi valley when we turn off & strike the Mts, the roads are very dusty & riding is disagreeable.  travel some 25 miles, and are now at Altamont.  are still upon the Cumberland mountains.  horses did not get any forage last night or this morning, as there is none in this country we will have to leave.  The distance to Chattanooga is 48 miles by the roundabout way traveled by us it is at least 60 miles.

Thursday [torn] 1862

Leave Altamont about 7 a.m. and travel hard until noon when we stop an hour or so to feed horses.  After then we are again on horseback, go within a mile or so of McMinville and stop six miles of that place for the night.  We have been drenched to the skin with rain since leaving this morning & have to go to sleep wet, saw the it raining below us while we were up on the mts perfectly dry – the sight was beautiful.

Friday July 11^th

In camp all the forenoon with nothing to change the sameness of every day camp life, if I except the frequent visits of pretty girls.  Ordered to be ready to leave at 12 to night if necessary & to prepare 3 days rations.

Saturday July 12^th

did not leave last night, but at 12 m today we are on the road to Murfreesboro.  camped at Woodbury.

Having [passed through] McMinville & distant from the last named place 22 miles.  have traveled 28 miles and seen a most beautiful part of Tennessee.

Sunday July 13^th

Did not camp as expected on last night but merely stopped to feed and rest horses.  travel at a lively gait until to Murfreesboro (21 miles).  We (our company) being the advance guard it devolved upon us to capture the pickets of the enemy.  that was managed in a most masterly style.  The charge was then made we being still in advance upon the camps of the Federals.  The expedition has been successful in all particulars.  the enemy surrendered & with them we became in possession of all their arms including Four pieces of artillery, Baggage, camp equipage, commissary store &tc.  return to a four one mile of Woodbury & stop for the balance of the night.

Monday July 14^th

Leave about 9 a.m. & come to this place (McMinville) are still in advance but called back to guard prisoners (officers) the balance of the command not on duty having been ordered to about face to meet 300 cavalry, it afterward proved to be a false report.

Tuesday July 15^th

All today has been occupied in putting the prisoners “privates” on parol.  The com. officers will not be released.  They [are] all pleased at the prospect of returning home & express themselves as being heartily tired of the war.  This was about 1000 men paroled.  Moved to our old camp six miles of McMinville.  Have been tranfered with Stuart & Robinson to the artillery.  Steele was wounded in the upper arm the ball passing through &

lodging in the neighborhood of his shoulder blade.  the wound is not dangerous.  Palmer wounded severely in the leg.  Torrence wounded in the stomach slight.  Fitch was accidentally shot by his own pistols in the hand.  The named above are all of the wounded in the engagement on last Sunday.  Stuart’s horse was shot dead.  Lost my gun by breaking it over a fellow’s head.  am positive that I hit him, for his gun broke like a pipe stem when the lick was made.

Wednesday July 16^th

When I awakened this morning long time after sunup, I found the command all ready to leave.  The wagons had already left. [Learned] we were pursued by the enemy in large force.  fell back at a [hour] move for 1/2 mile when we return again to camp.  Think there was no foundation for the report.  Moved camp some 10 miles through  the woods it took us until after midnight to [reach] camp.

Thursday July 17^th

Raining this morning and alltogether it has been a most disagreeable day.  The Brigade on parade and speeches made by Genl Forrest, Col Hood  Geo Regt & Maj Harrison.

Friday July 18^th

Move again this morning.  travel as far as Alexandria passing through the small town of Liberty, and stop some two hours, again in the saddle and on the way to Lebanon.

Saturday July 19^th

Reach Lebanon about sun up and find the Yankees had left.  they must certainly have been notified of our approach.  Made a charge into town but the bird had flown & it was useless.  the people received us in the most joyful manner.  the Ladies especially [expressed] themselves in such terms as to make

us all have the most exalted opinion of them.  in town all day feasting on the good things of this life furnished by the kind ladies & it does seem as if they put aside everything to attend to our wants for provisions were furnished in abundance at short notice.  I will always love the people, especially the ladies, of this beautiful place & look back to this day with unmistakeable pleasure.  moved to bivouac some three miles from town on the Rome Turnpike.  Rainy nearly all day & the prospect for sleep tonight is not flattering.

Sunday July 20^th

Retd the town again this morning for breakfast & after which we go to camp again.  no

Monday July 21^st

It was thought last night that the enemy were advancing, one of the pickets having fired off gun created a great commotion in camp.  the bugles were blown to saddle up   [ ] & in a short time we were in line prepared for the deadly conflict.  It proved however the gun was fired by accident.  horse saddled all night.  at day light the bugle is sounded to mount & we are shortly after on the road to Nashville.  Our company is acting as advance guard.  are told on the road there are eight yankees only a short distance in advance of us.  Our utmost exertions are used to overtake them but in vain.   [three] of them who loitered gathering supplies fell into our hands.  [go] within Four miles of Nashville and [burn] three RR bridges on Nashville & Huntsville RR capturing the guard some 100 in number who are paroled.  when we face about to return ride through bye roads until midnight when we stop to feed & rest.

Tuesday July 22^nd

In the saddle a little after day & stop to feed at M.  stop again at the junction of the Lebanon & Murfreesboro pike, the Leverne & Lafayette pike. & in six miles of Murfreesboro learn that [Bull] Nelson became alarmed for the fate of Nashville & struck out from Murfreesboro at a double quick gate for

the first named place.  our advance was [fired] upon by the enemys pickets at these cross roads   go into camp about 10 p.m.

Wednesday July 23^rd

Leave about 8 a.m. & with nothing interesting on the way travel until we reach McMinville.  Stop there an hour when we go to camp some four miles further on the banks of a creek Collins River.  learn that [3] Federals voluntarily surrendered themselves & requested to be paroled.  Find our wagons, cannons [& are] have been [reinforced] some 13 miles from McMinville.

Thursday July 24^th

Travel hard all day and stop to rest about midnight – “this was on 22^nd Inst”

Friday July 25^th

Resting horses & shoeing them.

Saturday July 26^th

Rumor of an advance of the enemy, ordered to town & scouts sent out in various directions.  The balance of the command take the road to Manchester whither a flag of
truce had been sent some time previous.  Got within 4 miles of there when a line of battle is formed about dusk. the flag of truce has not returned.

Sunday July 27^th

The flag of truce passed the command last night about midnight.  They were allowed to proceed without being halted so as not to give the enemy any clue of our whereabouts.  After  they had passed sometime our company was detailed to overtake them & order them back.  We had to ride some six miles at full speed before it was accomplished.  Returned & took a nap holding our horses by the bridles & in line.  at day we go to capture the pickets of the enemy, some 25 in number, their force being too heavy to attack we were compelled to be satisfied with that, & fell back a mile or so, formed line of battle & waited an hour or so for them to come out.  They not making their appearance we started on our return to [camp],  reached camp about 3 P.M.

dirty tired & sleepy.  Our company was the advance guard yesterday, a  Georgia regiment [ is] in advance today & Capture all the pickets, am told that 12 Federals surrendered to two Georgians.  while in advance yesterday some one remarked we had no officers.  “our Lieut having been compelled to remain in camp”  The major replied,  that had not it  made no difference.

Monday July 28^th

In Camp.  an alarm occured last night but there was no cause for it.

Tuesday July 29^th

Ordered to have dress parade tomorrow at 10 A.M. in clean clothes.  Q  where were they to come from.  On picket on the Murfreesboro pike 1/2 mile beyond McMinville.

Wednesday July 30^th

A citizen came in about 11 p.m. & reported the enemy at Woodbury & advancing on us.  The General was notified & he used every precaution against surprise calling in the pickets [of the various roads] to the court house at McMinville leaving only the videttes out, having the horses saddled.  The men in line [said] learned this morning there were about 300 cavalry [who] camped at Woodbury last night.  And an indefinite number of Infantry with cannon and wagons at Reedyville a few miles above that place.  The supposition is they were a foraging or provisioning party and intended to go only to those places on a stealing expedition.  The pickets are called in late today & we find the camp is removed some 8 miles further on the road leading to Sparta.  This move is made on account of the scarcity of forage at the old camp.  No dress parade as expected.

Thursday July 31st

Raining today, no movement made. amunition given out, & report of horses able for duty required.

Friday Augt 1st 1862

No movement today nor nothing doing in camp. Stuart on picket.

Saturday Augt 2nd

Our regiment has been transferred to Scott’s command & we are ordered to report to Sparta. The transfer is made against the wishes of both officers & men. We all would prefer to be with Genl Forrest who is a great favorite. The enemy ran in the pickets this evening. It is said they are in force at McMinville. Move camp, crossing Caney Fork River & camping at Rock Crossing “Same River” distant from McMinville 12 miles. Two rangers caught in town by the enemy.

Sunday Augt 3rd

Move to within 4 miles of Sparta. Learn we are ordered to march to Kingston tomorrow. The enemy reported as advancing, Rangers missing on yesterday came into camp today. Raining this morning.

Monday Augt 4th

Pass through Sparta & camp along side of Scott’s regiment 3 miles from town on the road to Kingston. Enemy reported advancing. Scout sent out to learn their force. before however they make any report we are ordered to march go some 3 miles when a courier overtakes us & we are counter marched in a drenching rain to camp. The cavalry of the enemy 150 strong were seen back 4 miles from Sparta on the McMinville road. the supposition is that their Infantry is nearer to McMinville than to this place. & that it is merely a scouting party that has followed us this far.

Tuesday Augt 5th

After a most unpleasant night the prospect for a beautiful day is most flattering. move camp some 2 miles to Yankee Town a good Camping ground. Col Scott issued Whiskey today.

Wednesday Augt 6th

Go to have horse shod some 10 miles & while away the regiment takes up line of march for Kingston. Don’t catch it by night. Stop at the foot of the mountain about 12 oclock & sleep for the balance of the night.

Thursday Augt 7th

Get my breakfast & feed old Snooks at a house at a house before leaving for the trip across the mountains. It is now sun up when I mount for the lonely & dangerous ride. Bushwhackers are plenty on this mountain pass & being alone am obliged to feel uncomfortable. Go to Crossville 25 miles distant by 2 oclock. at that place I find company & proceed on this [journey] after resting my horse a while. make the foot of the mountain by Ten oclock P.M. having traveled from the foot of the mountain on one side to the foot of it on this a distance of 50 miles. regiment some 5 miles a head of me.

Friday Aug 8th

When I awakened this morning the sun was high up in the sky. The regiment I [learned] had started for Kingston & I follow after, overtake them at that place. Cross Clinch river and the Tennessee and camp on south side of it 5 miles from Kingston. Lieut Weston gave me an old broken down horse as my own property. Saturday Augt 9th In camp. Stuart & Roberson have gone to have horses shod. The shop being 15 miles they will necessarily be absent a day or so. no news.

Sunday Augt 10th

Preaching this morning & evening. Did not attend, therefore cannot tell the effect it produced upon the listeners. Learn the regiment has been placed under command of Genl Forrest again.

Monday Augt 11th

Torrence has gone on a 30 Ds furlough to North Carolina. [From] a letter rec’d from Steele I learn he has gone to Texas on a 60 Ds furlough, he enclosed [in a] Draft on Capt Botts for Eighteen50/00 Dollars.

Tuesday Augt 12th

Learn that two Companies are temporarily detached from the regiment and placed under Col. Scott. Maj Harrison is to accompany them & have command of the advance. Col Walker returned from Knoxville.

Wednesday Augt 13th

Col Wharton returned today. He met the two companies spoken of yesterday & ordered them back to the regiment. Tom Weston returned from Knoxville. Rec’d a letter from [Ed or EB] Buckley. Will leave in the morning for a new camp.

Thursday Augt 14th

In the saddle at day light this morning. travel about 15 miles when another camp is struck. learn the wagons & the balance of the regiment left at Chattanooga. are twelve miles from here on the opposite side of the Tenn River, Stuart & Robinson meet us at this camp.

Friday Augt 15th

Nothing new. go to the shop this evening for the purpose of getting my horse shod, but after waiting all the evening find there is no chance.

Saturday Augt 16th

Usual camp duties. go to the Blacksmith shop and after waiting all day fail to get my horse shod. The regiment are ordered to leave at day break in the morning. one Company are to go tonight. Maj Harrison called on for a speech. he made a few remarks, thanking the men for the

compliment &tc.

Sunday Augt 17th

The regiment left this morning to join the wagons on the other side of the Tenn River. My horse being unable to travel I remain behind to have him shod & succeed in having it done about 2 P.M. [Sevilley] & Wiley having remained for the same purpose we will camp at this place to night and make an early start to overtake the command tomorrow.

Monday Augt 18th

Go to the regiment starting at an early hour this morning & get to Camp about 3 P.M. find all well. We are ordered to leave in the morning at 3 a.m. with two days rations of corn & provisions.

Tuesday Augt 19th

Leave at day light this morning and go to a mile beyond crossville where we camp for the night. traveled about 20 miles.

Wednesday Augt 20th

Make a very early start and reach the foot of the mountains by 4 P.M. The country through which we passed yesterday & today is poor. nothing transpired [twr] to see to dispell the weariness of the ride. Yankees were here a few days ago. Our company on this trip is 44 men.

Thursday Augt 21st

Start at day light & make near 30 miles when we camp. no news. rumors of several successes to our army.

Friday Augt 22nd

Start early & stop at Dixons Springs about 3 P.M. making some 20 odd miles. find every thing we could wish or desire at this place. The people are of the right sort and welcomed us in the right spirit. [Will] always, think of them with pleasure. Learn of Morgans fight with

the command of Genl Johnson. the same we have been following for some days.

Saturday Augt 23rd

Stuart & myself & Tom O’Brien get dinner at Maj Martin’s and feel generally better from its effects. Move camp at 3 P.M. and stop on Rome Turnpike 7 miles from Lebanon at Big Springs. having [forded] the Cumberland River at one of the various fords.

Sunday Augt 24th

No move today, ordered this evening to be ready at 3 A.M. to move. Stuart Ryan & myself visit Mrs Shut and spend several hours in a most agreeable manner. We dined with her and family & Miss Miller. It is useless to attempt expressing on paper the gratification it afforded me to set [once] more at a table with four pretty and accomplished Young Ladies. suffice it the visit will always be thought of with the liveliest feelings of pleasure, and each one of them shall occupy a part of my thoughts & best wishes for their future happiness.

Monday Augt 25th

Leave at an hour by sun & go to Lebanon Stop there an hour when we take the Sparta Pike. travel in that direction some 18 miles to Alexandria & camp.

Tuesday Aug 26th

& take a cross Pike leading to Murfreesboro. then by a common road to Woodberry. stop some 3 miles of that place. the advance guard having proceeded to town captured a few Feds & reported more on the road the order to move forward was given [Our] reg’t go around the town & the balance of the command direct to it, run our horses 85 or 6 miles, without doing any good save capturing some 16 Feds. Old Snooks ran away with me twice, Camp 1 mile from Reedyville between that place & Woodberry.

Ranger shot a citizen who tried to arrest him. Stuart & Robinson on picket Fed’s have been retreating from McMinville since Sunday last.

Wednesday Augt 27th

Regiment on a scout towards Murfreesboro. Old Snooks needing a shoe I did not go with them but remained behind to have him shod. The enemy reported at Woodberry and all those who did not go on the scout are on the road to meet them. at Woodberry a detail is made to reconnoitre the road towards McMinville the detail consists of about 20 men. We soon learn the enemy are in the neighborhood about 130 strong and after proceeding down towards McMinville some 6 miles, their pickets are discovered. We the detail are joined by a part of the ala cavalry and start in pursuit of them, some dozen or so shots are exchanged without effect on either side We run them back some two miles but finding it useless to try to overtake them stop. return towards Woodberry and meet Genl Forrest & part of the command, turn into the valley & camp.

Thursday Aug 28th

Go towards Jacksboro & when in two miles of that place a runner came in & reported the enemy going towards Woodberry. about faced & go in a lively gait to overtake them, find them in a very strong position some 3000 strong two miles from that place. they opened fire upon us with artillery and small arms. We soon found out there was nothing to be gained & retreated. Loss 1 killed 2 wounded. 1 missing. Camp two miles from Jacksboro.

Friday Augt 29th

On the way to Morrisons Station (McMinville & Manchester RR) find the enemy about 400 strong at that place and [a] part of the command are dismounted to protect the horses in crossing the RR. They are ordered to charge a stockade fort and attempt it with considerable loss, finding

it a useless sacrifice of good men they are withdrawn. Loss about 3 killed & 30 odd wounded. camp some ten further & at the foot of the mountains.

Saturday Augt 30th

Start to cross the mountains and when within a few miles of Altamont a considerable force of the enemy are discovered as that is the only place to cross at this point it becomes necessaary to retrace our steps. return around McMinville. when near the McMinville & Woodberry Pike & while the command was in a lane, the enemy opened fire upon us with artillery, & a volley of musketry no one hurt. travel nearly all night & camp 12 miles from McMinville.

Sunday Augt 31st

We have been entirely completely surrounded by the enemy. I might say have been in the middle of Buels army. have run the gauntlet and are all convinced that it is impossible to cut off, flank or capture a force Cavalry that are determined to fight their way through. go some 6 miles & camp.

Monday Sept 1st 1862

Move camp a few miles. feed & rest horses. are now in 5 miles of Sparta. Learn that Maj Harrison with the rear guard is in this vicinity. some of our men came up from him today. They became separated from us on 30th. our wagons are also near this place with the balance of the regiment

Tuesday Sept 2

Move 1/2 mile to camp find wagons & the balance of command under Maj Harrison – on Calf Killer River – rec’d letter from Charley & Tompkins

Wednesday Sept 3rd

Bugle blown before day & a short time after all are mounted and on the road to Rock ford where it is reported the enemy are advancing. I did not go. Wagons are moved beyond Sparta some 4 miles. It proved to be a false

report. regiment returned. camp moved. Cheathams division arrived and a more joyful sight was never witnessed. Jim Walker presented with a horse by Col Wharton for gallant conduct on different occasions – wrote Ma –

Thursday Sept 4th

On the road this evening [at] 4PM for Nashville camp at Smithville 22 miles distant. this is a very pretty little town. –

Friday Sept 5th

On the road early this morning. and camp a few miles of Liberty at the junction of the Lebn & Sparta & Murfreesboro Pike. Good horses of command ordered for a scout tomorrow.

Saturday Sept 6th

The brigade left at day for a scout. my horse having a sore back I did not accompany them. Took a bath – nothing new.

Sunday Sept 7th 1862

This is the anniversary of my soldier’s life. Twelve months today [I swore] to serve the confederate government in the capacity of a soldier, and I hope I have served faithfully. My conscience is clear in respect to the duties I have had to perform and the part I had to act. Learn that Gen Forrest has retaken Murfreesboro the small federal force left there surrendered without firing a gun. at dusk we are on the road to Lebanon and travel about 20 miles, passing through Alexandria, camp about 12 oclock.

Monday Sept 8th

After breakfast this morning we go into Lebanon & camp, our Company on picket on the Gallatin Pike two miles from town at Mr Carters and I can say that it is the most pleasant place to stand picket

I know of, am delighted with the treatment received from the members of that good family. They discovered a striking likeness between Mrs C –’ son & myself. So much are we alike that his sister remarked that had I gone into the house alone she would have [been] tempted to kiss me.

Tuesday Sept 9th

Relieved from picket duty this morning. Ordered to hold ourselves in readiness to march at half an hours notice. Gen Forrest is now at the Stone Bridge 7 miles this side of Nashville. Left the Roan horse at Mr Carter’s in his pasture. dusk, The bugle has just blown to saddle up.

Wednesday Sept 10th

Get with the command about midnight 12 miles from Nashville on N. & Lebanon pike. Wednesday Sept 10th Take an early start and go towards Nashville some 3 miles passing by the Hermitage. Cross the [Cumberland] River & when there capture 3 prisoners. Chase 30 odd down the Nashville & Gallatin pike towards Nashvile. form in line of battle for an attack & wait near an hour for them. they not making their appearance we proceed to the upper Gallatin pike & camp for the night.

Thursday Sept 11th

Go towards Gallatin some distance when we take a bye road through the country. The advance guard is fired upon killing none wounding [Mr Jack] of Co F dangerously. Learn there is a larger force in our front in ambush for us. Give them three shots from our little six pounders, take another road & form in line of battle about 2 miles further up the road. The enemy

shelled the road for an hour after. [We’d] left but did not follow us up. camp.

Friday Sept 12th

Nothing on the road worthy of note. [Up] to the middle of the day when we feed was in 5 miles of Woodberry “Camp Terry”. learn of the enemy being in the neighborhood & after going a few miles jump them up. go some distance 1/2 mile or such [a] matter when we discover a body of men [moving] across an open field as if trying to avoid us. The Column is turned to head them & we are in gun shot before it is Known they are our men. They are under command of Col and finding the enemy in too great force are making good their retreat seeing the dust from our column took us for the enemy [in their rear] & were making for another road across the field. We seeing their dust mistook them for Yankees & were after them [in earnest] as soon as they understood we were friends they gave a shout as men could only give under [such] circumstances. The whole command is then put in line of battle & waited for three hours for the approach of the enemy who smelt a [trick] & did not come. cross into go some 5 miles & camp.

Saturday Sept 13th

Up before day & on the move. Cross the Barron River & camp [1/2] miles from [Glasgow] where a large force of our infantry is.

Sunday Sept 14th

No move until after noon when camp is changed to 2 miles from Glasgow on Louisville pike.

Monday Sept 15th

The army is all on the move. Camp [is ordered] 10 miles further on the pike, meet old friends in [Clinch] Rifles.

Tuesday Sept 16th

Cross [Green] River today with wagons artillery & a part of our

Infantry force, entirely surround Woodsonville & Munfordsville and at midnight the Federal forces occupying those places surrendered to us the number surrendered is 4580 men, this was a fortified place. Saw Dr Tompkins.

Wednesday Sept 17th

Our Company is detailed to hunt up stragglers. we only found two negroes, the federals had pressed to work on fortifications. We are all on the move & camp at Bacon Creek for the night. Reported advance of Buel proves to be Genl Breckinridges division.

Thursday Sept 18th

Go as far as Hamburg on L&N R.R. about 12 miles & camp. We passed through Auburn a small town or R R Station. the people appear to rather favor us and our cause.

Friday Sept 19th

Are ordered to return to Munfordsville as the enemy are reported advancing upon that point. go some 12 miles when we meet a courier who turns us back. The reported advance proved to be a Cavalry dash at the rear guard. Saw Several of Clinch Rifles working at Engine that had been thrown from RR track. it looks as if we are preparing to use the RR.

Saturday Sept 20th

Last night a detail of 20 men from each company was sent to the rear of the army to act as a rear guard. Did not leave until late in the day owing to the distribution of arms and ammunition to the men. Pass through Elizabethtown at which place the enemy had made a fort of a brick building to protect RR bridge. That little town is said to be [thoroughly] Secesh, a confederate flag was flying from the highest steeple in the place, and the people expressed themselves as glad to see

us. Did not make a halt until after we had passed Muldrows Hill some two miles when we camp for the night.

Sunday Sept 21st

After breakfast we are on the march and pass through Boston a town of no pretensions. we had proceeded beyond that place some 2 miles when a courier overtook us with the news that the wagon train had been attacked. The regiment is turned back to protect the train & “I having a [bad or lead] horse go to Bardstown” Succeeded in driving the Yanks away after taking some 11 prisoners. It was a very bold dash and they deserve Credit for their boldness. They captured some of our men but do not know the number. A Little after night all the command came into camp. This little town is a very pretty place the people are kind and appear to be with us in feeling.

Monday Sept 22nd

In camp at Bardstown, with nothing transpiring to notice.

Monday Sept 29th

The events of the past week to record have been so few that I will put them all upon this date. from Bardstown we went on a scout up the Louisville pike, returned and a part of the Regiment was detailed and sent to Taylorsville to guard some [Hosiery or Hominy] mills there. I have been to Fairfield & Bloomfield & find the people generally sympathizers with us. Genl Forrest has been sent to Tennessee to recruit a Brigade of Infantry. Col. Wharton has returned from a scout he had been with at Munfordsville and is now in command of the Brigade. Maj Harrison is now acting Col. of the Regiment. Lt Col Walker has resigned & gone home. We came to this place yesterday & was kept in line of Battle all the forenoon, for what reason no one could tell as the Yankees were reported as being some miles away “this is Mt Washington” 19 miles

from Louisville” about noon we go The command is very much scattered, details to Taylorsville, scouts &tc have reduced us to as few men, many are dismounted who do us no good. They are with the wagons & efforts are made to mount them. Ordered to move Camp & all mounted when the order is countermanded.

Tuesday Sept 30th

The regiment goes a few miles towards Louisville & return after an absence of an hour or so & go into camp on west side of Mt Washington [1/4] of a mile from that place. report of the capture by the enemy of a part of the 3rd Geo Regiment of Cavalry near Lebanon Junction. Genl Bragg’s address to people of North West is read to and approved of by all who say it is an able document. a part of [our] Company came up from Taylorsville report all quiet.

Thursday Oct 30th 1862

We arrived at this place “Lenore E.T. & Geo RR” 18 miles from Kingston day before yesterday. Since 30th ult and up to within a few days before crossing the mountains we were daily skirmishing with the enemy. So busily engaged have we been at that kind of business that I could not find time to keep a daily record of passing events will therefore be compelled to trust to memory. – We were driven by the enemy from Mt Washington and from there to Bardstown at which place 4 Regiments of cavalry attempted to cut us off. (they had a battery, and about a brigade of Infantry, but beyond supporting distance) and met as they justly deserved a very severe chastizement, We took 40 prisoners besides killing & wounding about that same number. our loss 1 man wounded. From thence we go to Stanford where the enemy did some of the best shooting with cannon I have ever seen. every shot fell among us as

we were drawn up in line. but nobody hurt. At Perrysville 8th we attacked the enemy with the forces under Gen Hardee. Our Regiment Brigade made a charge at the enemy on a thick wooded hill so as to cover the advance of our Infantry. and it was successful that far but we could not sustain ourselves against the numbers brought to bear on us. meantime our Infantry advanced across an open field unperceived when the enemy finding out the movement fell back behind a battery on a bald hill overlooking the wooded hill they had just left, our Infantry advanced steadily to the foot of the hill, the enemy laying upon the top of it at that place I saw the most desperate fight at close quarters it has ever been my lot to witness The distance could not have exceeded 30 yards when the firing first began and after the first fire our troops commenced advancing, the enemy falling back, I became separated from the regiment on the wooded hill spoken of above, and got with the Infantry cheering them and doing all I could to add success to our cause. The battle ended at night, we sleeping on the battle field from which we had driven the enemy (some 2 miles) the ground was literally covered with his dead. Their loss must have exceeded ours as 3 to 1. never have I seen so many, such a sacrifice of human life as at that place. It is sad to think of – A most glorious victory was gained, the enemy very severely chastized did not attempt a renewal of the fight the next morning when we commenced retreating – fall back to Harrodsburg where I learn Mitch is with Kirby Smiths command do not see him there but met him afterwards. retreat to Cumberland gap and suffer greatly for the want of food on the way thither. eat parched corn with no salt or meat. Cumberland Gap is as strong as nature and the wisdom of man could well make it. and I do not regret that we passed through it, for the place is well worth seeing. – We had dress parade

today when an order of Genl Polk was read out to us. thanking us for the repulse of the enemy cavalry at Bardstown and also for the charge made at Perrysville. We left Knoxville on 28th ult.

Friday Oct 31st

No move today. Steele arrived and looks well from the rest he has had.

Saturday Nov 1st 1862

Go to Kingston, pass a very long train of wagons belonging to Genl K.Smiths command.

Sunday Nov 9th

Have been in camp from 1st inst to this date doing nothing except running horse races with drilling occasionally. The regiment moved today about 2 noon & go to Post Oak springs & camp for the night. I have been off for 2 days trying to purchase cloth and engaged 50 yards. but finding the regiment had left before my return had to leave without the cloth. I sleep at the old camp tonight & will start early in the morning to overtake the Command.

Monday Nov 10th

Make an early start and feed at Post oak springs overtake the regt at Crossville, at night.

Tuesday Nov 11th

Leave very early and camp within a mile of Sparta, learnt that Col. Wharton is now a Brig Genl.

Wednesday Nov 12th

No move today. ordered to be ready to move tomorrow at 4 a.m.

Thursday Nov 13th

Tents were all struck [and] wagons loaded at a very early hour when the order to move was countermanded, – raining very hard all last night.

Wednesday Nov 26th

Are now camped at Nolansville on Nolansville Pike 16 miles from Nashville. 7 miles from Triune the place we were picketing at

last year – While at Sparta Steele, Torrence [&myself] were detailed to go through the country and purchase horses for the regiment [at or and force or before] our return to camp the command had moved, and we followed after passing through Woodbury Murfreesboro & to this place. rec’d letter from Tompkins dated Sep 7th.

Dec 7th

Move camp some 2 miles towards Triune . [Are skirmishing almost ] daily with the enemy. [-trte] appointed QMaster of the regiment on 1st inst. I was elected Orderly sergeant of the Company this morning. Wrote Tompkins 1st inst, wrote [charly or clancy] also on that date.

Decr 25th

Have been quietly encamped to this date with occasional skirmishing with the enemy. [today] they advanced in force [Forcing or driving] us to Nolansville when they [turned to] their lines. it proved to be a foraging party.

Decr [ 26th ]

Enemy advance in force [driving us] beyond Nolansville 2 miles & capturing 10 pieces of Artillery

Dec 27th

Enemy still advancing [driving] us beyond Triune. Griffin captured.

Dec 28th

Cross over to Murfreesboro Shelbyville pike at Salem [ 2 or 12 ] miles from Murfreesboro in line of Battle all day but the enemy do not advance by this eve

Dec 29th

Skirmishing on short pike that [led] towards Nolansville, Palmer wounded Dec 30th Heavy skirmishing [on our] left wing all day [we ride out & capture a - ing – S Gallatin wounded slightly - - -smith slightly]

Dec 31st

Battle opened to day light move the the right of the enemy. the turned – Charged on [wagon train]

the fighting for a while was very hard, the enemy loss exceeded ours a 3 to 1.

Jany 1st 1863

In the rear of the enemy at Levern burned wagons. Captured about 100 prisoners & 25 head of cattle

Jany 2nd

Lines of battle as on 31st no fighting of consequence. [We] attempting to drive the enemy from a very strong position our men were [repulsed].

Jany 3rd

Skirmishing all day but no general engagement, towards night the enemy shelled the woods & attempted to advance but were repulsed with considerable loss.

Jany 4th

Army fallen back on Shelbyville pike last night, we leave the battle field at day light, it is thought the move is a decoy to get the enemy to follow. Reported they are falling back on Nashville.

Jany 5th

On Shelbyville pike about 6 miles from Nolansville Murfreesboro, no advance of the enemy. Jany 6th Move some 2 miles to camp. no advance of the enemy.

Jany 7th

In same camp. nothing new

8th Jany.

Move 2 miles further for forage no advance of the enemy.

Friday 9th

Move 3 miles towards Murfreesboro. our company on picket at Middleton 13 miles from Murfreesboro on dirt road leading to shelbyville. Enemy are 3 miles in advance of Murfreesboro.

Saturday 10th

Still on picket, Wheeler’s brigade passed by last night & camped within a few hundred yards of us. this morning they

left by road leading into Triune and shelbyville pike.

Sunday 11th Jany

Are relieved from picket duty by a company of Davis batalion & return to camp. The command went down to Enemy pickets and threw 3 shels at them. camp 10 miles of Shelbyville. Our Company is thrown into deepest gloom on account of intelligence of the death of Jas Walker. he was a young man of bright prospects and leaves many friends to mourn his loss. –

Monday 12 Jany

In camp. Washed & put on clean clothes. Speech made by Genl Wharton tonight complimenting the regiment for gallantry on different occasions &tc &tc.

Tuesday 13 Jany

Go to wagons to clean up, as the men are really suffering for a change of clothing. return at night to camp. wrote clancy.

Wednesday 14 Jany

Go on picket at Middleton with Co E raining incessantly. are told the Enemy are at Versailles some 6 miles distant. A scout that was sent out discovered them in ambush within 2 miles of camp.

Thursday 15 Jany

Raining incessantly allnight. & to day it continues without intermission with some sleet & a little snow until night. a most disagreeable & unpleasant day. – Our picket was moved a little before day break about 1 mile toward [ M&T] pike & a little while after sunup we returned, the Enemy did not attempt to carry out their threat “to take us out of the wet.” Went on a scout towards Versailles but could learn nothing of the enemy.

Friday 16 Jany

Sleeting & snowing all night. it is bitter cold. Am relieved of picket duty by a Company of Howards Regiment, it is so cold & disagreeable that Stewart

& myself have concluded to stop at a house in the country until tomorrow morning – no news of the enemy

Saturday 17 Jany

Stopped for the night at a house & this morning after breakfast we proceeded on our way to camp. [Quite or found] a few of the Company at our reserve Camp. in a short while after the regiment passes by on their way to the wagons & we go with them. Genl Wharton treated the regiment to whiskey and one man was shot accidentaly by some one of his friends who had taken too much of it.

Sunday 18 Jany

Preaching by Revd McBuntline. Move camp 1/2 mile on account of mud, stringent orders given by Genl Wharton to be enforced with at wagon camp.

Monday 19 Jany 1863

Regiment left this morning at Sun up on a scout. I did not go being a little unwell. Wrote clancy. rec’d letter from charley with papers. raining. regiment returned at night. moved camp

Tuesday 20 Jany

Regiment on picket on the pike, nothing new. Wednesday 21. Jany. On Picket at reserve station. Flag of truce came in today escorting two of our Surgeons & two Ladies from Murfreesboro.

Thursday 22 Jany

Foraging party of the enemy came out to within 1 mile of picket stand. some shots exchanged by videttes. They returned towards evening.

Friday 23 Jany

The Enemy are out again after forage. The videttes exchange shots. return to wagons having been relieved by Col Smiths Regiment. Find Cox sick & confined to bed. rec’d papers from home

Saturday 24 Jany

– In camp making out pay Rolls. and doing other little camp duties. The 11th Texas Regiment came and have camped near us. they are to be mounted and connected with our Brigade.

Sunday 25 Jany

Preaching by RevMcBuntline. our company sent out to escort 4 companies of [Murrays] Regiment to the infantry camp. they have been dismounted. Their horses go towards mounting 11th Texas Regt. Ordered to cook 1 days ration & go on picket in the morning – wrote Tompkins.

Monday 26 Jany

Regiment on picket. I am ordered to remain in camp to make out pay Rolls &tc – raining very hard this evening & the prospect for the night is gloomy.

Tuesday 27 Jany

The regiment came in from off picket this morning. our Company being at Middleton did not come in until some two hours afterwards. Snowing all day. This is camp “Jas T Walker.” ordered to leave at 10 A.M. on a scout

Wednesday 28 Jany

In camp all today. snowing all day & the ground is muddy sloppy & disagreeable, ordered to leave at day light tomorrow on a scout. The order of yesterday having been Countermanded on account of the inclemency of the weather. wrote charly.

Thursday 29 Jany

About an hour before day we are awakened by revelle and half an hour afterwards to saddle up. are mounted and moving off at Sun up. go to Shelbyville & take Nashville & Shelbyville Pike, pass through Unionville and Eagleville & camp 2 miles of latter place. There are little country towns of no note, all the Lieut being absent leaves me in

Command of the Co.

Friday 30th Jany.

Leave about 8 A.M. & go back to the pike, travel it to Triune where we turned off on dirt road to Franklin pass through there and Camp on Columbia pike 1 mile from town. Weather clear & cold.

Saturday 31st Jany

Heavy detail made to get [bread] as the order is that we go where it will be hard to procure, leave at 11 A.M. pass through Franklin and down the pike some distance, then take dirt road leading towards Charlotte, – Lieut Weston came in this morning & takes Command of Co. prospect tonight is too good for rain to be agreeable.

Sunday 1st Feby.

Make an early start and travel at an easy gait all day towards Charlotte. raining nearly all day, towards night the weather is more settled.

Monday 2nd Feby

Pass through Charlotte very early this morning & camp at night 20 miles from there on Fort Donelson road. The weather has been clear up to night, when it clouded up.

Tuesday 3 Feby

Start at 4 A.M. & reach Fort Donelson [about] 2 hours by sun attack it, but are not successful in the attack. Our regiment was on picket on Fort Henry road & did not get into the fight. 2nd Geo took 1 piece of artillery. It was intended to carry the fort by storm tomorrow but several Gun boats having come up the undertaking was abandoned. Camped at the [ Smeet ] Mill 2-1/2 miles from the fort. our Company on picket. weather awful cold.

Wednesday 4 Feby

– Start early & Camp at night at Vinters, the same camp as we had on 2nd very Cold & disagreeable.

Thursday 5 Feby

We had a very hard snow storm

last night & this morning the ground is covered at least 3 inches. move camp towards Columbia some 12 miles. about 40 miles from Shelbyville to Franklin – about 22 miles from Franklin to Charlotte – 38 miles from Charlotte to Fort Donelson.

Friday 6 Feby

Camped in the snow & this morning at Sun up are on the road to Columbia. Camp at a little [village] called Vernon.

Saturday 7 Feby

[Genl] has [discovered] innumerable body guards on his person. Had us up at midnight and our Company is in advance. go to the River “Duck” to cross, but find only one boat & it is very slow work crossing. finally get a part of the command over at the ferry when a ford is discovered & the balance go by that route. camp early on the south side of the river 4 miles from Centreville has cleared off beautifully & the snow is melting very fast. Enemy are said to be at Williamsport the camp we left on 6th. hardly believe it true.

Sunday 8 Feby

– Up before day & after good day are in the saddle & moving off. Camp early about 12 miles from Columbia on a short pike. make only 15 miles today.

Monday 9 Feby

Go but a few miles when we strike a camp.

Tuesday 10 Feby

No move today.

Wednesday 11

– on camp.

Thursday 12 Feby

In the saddle at 8 A.M. – raining very hard. pass through Columbia and some 7 miles beyond on road leading to Louisberg – road very bad. Columbia is a very pretty little place. did not have an opportunity to go through the town.

Friday 13th Feby

Go to Louisberg and camp. find forage rather scarce. this is a small town with no pretension and I do not see anything to invite a visitor to remain. It has cleared off & now feels as spring.

Saturday 14 Feby

– No move today. good prospect of rain.

Sunday 15 Feby.

Raining hard nearly all night. move camp seven miles on the Franklin pike 3 miles from Duck River. find forage scarce through this county.

Monday 16 Feby.

No move.

Tuesday 17

no move. [Wedgard or Wadgand] came to us & now the men are cleaning up. rec’d letter from John & Clancy.

Wednesday 18 Feby.

Nothing new. muster & Inspection.

Thursday 19 Feby.

Busy all day preparing muster and pay rolls, making out reports &tc.

Friday 20 Saturday 21

In Camp with the worst kind of weather.

Sunday 22 Feby.

Paying off the regiment is the only thing worth noting today.

Monday 23 Feby.

Rec’d 2 papers from Clancy. Review & Inspection by

Tuesday 24 Feby

Left camp and camped 8 miles of Shelbyville. Forage very scarce

Wednesday 25 Feby

Started at sun up passing through Shelbyville, raining very hard.

Thursday 26 Feby

Started after breakfast passed through Wartrace a RR station and Fairfield a little village & camped without forage in the rain & mud at [ Brach or Beach Grove].

Friday 27 Feby

No move today horses are saddled all day without forage.

Saturday 28 Feby

Regiment on picket. went to several shops to have horse shod finally

succeeded in finding one about 8 miles from camp.

Sunday Mch 1 –

Slept in house last night as it was too far to go after having my horse shod. Return to Regiment out Murfreesboro & Manchester Pike 13 miles from Murfreesboro.

Monday Mch 2nd

Co H & E on picket on road leading to Bradyville. Howard’s command had a fight at that place & had to fall back some distance. Moved picket stand to M & M Pike. Have to pack forage 4 miles on our horses.

Tuesday Mch 3rd

on Picket – trying to snow all day.

Wednesday Mch 4th

Relieved of picket by Co. D & G. this morning return to camp. [Crume] and Kimball has seceded from our mess.

Mch 5th

[Went Foraging West of McGinnis] a little skirmish on th pike. nobody hurt.

6th

Raining hard all day. forage our horses back 2 miles from camp.

7th

Raining all day. relieved of Picket duty by Howards Regiment. returned to Wagons after getting [A or 4] days eating corn.

8th

Raining all night, weather fair this morning. Regiment has gone for forage.

9th

No move today. Artillery heard in Shelbyville.

10th

Raining all day. a case of small pox reported in Co B. no move.

11th

After forage 8 miles, return at night.

12th

Saddle up at Sunrise and pass through Shelbyville. stop on Triune pike about [1] miles from Shelbyville.

the enemy have been troublesome on this pike, running in pickets &tc.

13th

Go down the pike in the morning & again after dinner to meet the enemy, but find they had all left before we reached them.

Saturday 14 Mch.

Horses saddled up all day & a battery of Artillery came down to picket stand. They intercepted dispatches we were led to expect an attack, but having sent out a scout to Eaglesville learned the enemy had left towards Murfreesboro.

Wednesday 25 Mch

No change worth of note. the enemy are quiet and do not seem anxious to advance. They are picketing 6 miles of Triune at Junction of Nashville & Shelbyville & Chappell Hill pikes.

Thursday 26 Mch

On forage beyond picket Stand stand in line of battle until wagons are loaded – return to camp about dusk.

Friday 27 Mch

raining all day – no move –

Saturday 28 Mch

Raining all night. regiment on a scout.

Sunday 29 Mch

H & E on forage to Eaglesville.

Monday 30 Mch

D & K on forage. Inspection of the regiment.

Tuesday 31 Mch

Regiment on forage, run scout of the enemy 70 strong some 2 miles, taking 7 prisoners.

Wednesday 1 Apr

Orders to be ready for a 30 day scout by Saturday. a part of the regiment had a skirmish. Kimball & [Truman or Freeman] had a fist fight.

Thursday 2 Apr

Regiment on a scout – to move the family of a Major.

Friday 3 Apr

No move. Heard with regret

discovered that J. D. Palmer was deceased.

Saturday Apl 4/ 63

The most of the regiment went out to witness a horse race. a great part of them have cause to regret the part they played in the game, as the favorite filly with the regiment was badly beaten by the Horse – Genl Wharton entered Botts Sorrel Horse & Col Harrison his sorrel filly – after the race the regiment is moved to the wagons preparatory to taking a long scout.

Sunday Apl 5th

The command left this morning, carrying with them a days ration of corn on horses and another days rations in wagons. My horse having the scours yesterday is unfit for traveling and I have permission to remain behind until he is recovered.

Monday Apl 6th

With the wagons all of today & a most tiresome day it is. The wagons are to move to another camp in the morning. I will boss for the command.

Tuesday Apl 7th

After breakfast the wagons being on the move Wiley & myself started to overtake the command, at Shelbyville get pickled oysters to eat, pass through Wartrace & then Fairfield, find the country completely eaten out, so much so that we have to ride 8 or 10 miles farther than we wished before we could find a house where they would sell 30 ears of corn & get something for us to eat. My horse is completely given out.

Wednesday 8th Apl

Have been traveling slowly all day & made but few miles – pass Pocahontas a town of no size – & put up a few miles beyond.

Thursday 9th Apl

Made rather better time today. leave Jacksboro some few miles to our right, McMinville some 10 or 15 miles on our right,

pass Short Mt having traveled the Short Mt road pretty much all of today. Stop at the foot of it, with very tired, jaded horses. Met a great many returning to the wagons. The Country has commenced to improve but still it shows signs of the heavy foraging it has been subjected to.

Friday 10th Apl

Travel pretty well all day. Leave Liberty to our right, pass through Alexandria and stop for the night at Mr Dred Bass in meet stragglers going and coming all day.

Saturday 11th Apl

Do not make a very early start, and fully satisfy ourselves the Yanks are not on the Pike before venturing upon it. When some 8 miles of Lebanon learn the command has returned to that place, having accomplished what I suppose they undertook, in firing into & destroying RR train – join the Company and go on picket. Left my old horse “Snooks” at Mr Dred Bass this morning – learn through Enoch John the horse I left with Mr Carter last year had been appropriated by his son.

Sunday 12th Apl

The detachment Col Ferrell had with him destroying RR trains having returned yesterday evening & bringing some 12 officers who had refused the parole. We moved down the pike and camp at Alexandria, it is 18 miles from here to Lebanon.

Monday 13 Apl

Nothing stiring in Camp. the enemy are quiet.

Tuesday 14 Apl

No move. Enemy at [Carthage].

Wednesday 15th Apl

Enemy came out to New Middleton 7 miles but left instanter when they were fired at a few rounds with Cannon. no one hurt on our side.

Thursday 16th Apl

H & I on picket 2 miles from Alexandria on Lancaster dirt road, nothing stiring. My mare horse has entirely given out, she is stifled ..

Friday 17th Apl

Nothing new in camp.

Saturday 18th Apl

No change in anything today.

Sunday 19th Apl

Co H & I relieved of picket duty. Preaching by Mr Bunttine, rec’d letter from Tompkins dated 4 Mch.

Monday 20th Apl

In camp all of today the forenoon, & then the Tuesday 21st Apl Regiment is some kind of duty towards Lebanon, my horse is unable for travel. Wrote Tompkins.

Tuesday & Wednesday 21 & 22

The regiment came in today, report everything quiet about Lebanon. They brought several wagons loaded with wheat & Bacon. Nothing new in Camp.

Thursday 23th Apl.

About midnight last night the whole of the command was aroused and we are shortly after moving off. pass through Lancaster 12 miles distant and cross Smiths fork a tributary of Chaney Fork River and afterwards that River (it is [15 or 18] miles from there to Alexandria) the fording was deep but we make it without accident and camp 4 miles on the north side. The cause of this sudden move was the reported advance of the enemy via McMinville & Liberty – from here to Cookeville about 14 miles.

Friday 24th Apl

No further move today nor nothing enlivening to notice. Claiborne & Capt [Pearre] had a fisticuff but neither was worsted. it is reported the enemy have never been farther towards Alexandria than Liberty.

Saturday 25 Apl

Go only about [10] miles before we camp. Our company was detailed to escort Wagons to mill after meal & did not

overtake the command until near midnight. Got a new horse.

Sunday 26 Apl

Travel leisurely and make some 24 miles. camp in road leading to Rock Island ford “Caney Fork”. understand the Regiment is detached from the Brigade but do not know for what purpose.

Monday 27 Apl

Move only a few miles. Regiment gone out for forage. Had a shoe put on horse.

Tuesday 28 Apl

Was lucky enough to find a pair of shoes that I was sadly in need of. no move.

Wednesday 29 Apl

Took a bath & put on clean clothes, got my dinner and returned to camp just in time to march with the regiment. Go to Sparta & camp. Our company on picket.

Thursday 30 Apl

Company relieved today from picket duty. Torrence & me take a pirute.

Friday May 1 –

Get into camp about noon, nothing doing.

Saturday May 2.

Drill of all the regiment who did not go on forage yesterday. {are now packing forage 40 miles on horseback} and this evening we are sent towards Liberty, Camp at Sligo, Caney fork River.

Sunday May 3rd

Leave very early & reach within a mile of Liberty were in camp, afterwards fall back 2 miles. The 11th Texas pass us at noon, on their way to Lebanon. – Raining very hard the fore part of the night.

Monday May 4th

Make an early start and return back towards Sparta. Camp 1 mile S of Caney Fork River, 14 miles from Sparta to the River, 7 miles from the river to Smithville, 12 miles from Smithville to Liberty. Snows Hill is about 3 miles from Liberty on this road.

Tuesday May 5

Raining hard last night. We were fortunate enough though to get under shelter. left this morning about sun up & got into camp about noon. 5 companies have gone towards Chesnut mound. forage scarce.

Wednesday May 6th

In camp all day doing nothing. [ 1 bdl] oats to the horse is all the forage we ge.

Thursday May 7th

No move today.

Friday May 8.

Nothing new.

Saturday May 9.

An election for Company officers to fill the vacancy of 3rd Lieut occasioned by the promotion of Capt Cook to Maj of Regiment & the promotion of Weston to Capt of company. I was elected without opposition. The Company officers now are
Weston Capt Calder 1st Lieut Adams 2nd Macmurphy 3rd – Murray 1st Sergt McKethen 2nd Moore 3rd Jones 4th Arnold 5th – Corporals Robinson 1st Herbert 2nd O’Brien 3rd John 4th = The weather is extremely cold for this season of the year, and blankets at night are very comfortable, vegitation will not thrive unless the weather gets warmer – Paid off the Regiment to & including 30th April – wrote John – [rec’d] reply to his rec’d today.

Sunday May 10

Moved camp 1/2 mile at the suggestion of Dr Gulick, the old one being in a wet, damp place. Took a bath in “Calf Killer River.”

Monday May 11th

Had my horse shod at blacksmith Shop by the Factory. Went to Sparta.

Tuesday May 12th

Am detailed on Court martial tried John Van Houten, & adjourned until tomorrow. no news.

Wednesday May 13th

Court Martial in session at 8 a.m. tried E. Ryon – our Company and three others ordered to go after forage – forage is now hauled

near 40 miles from towards the Cumberland River. After Court Martial, about noon, I start to overtake the Company & ride some 20 miles when We conclude it best to stop at [Hinre possibly House] for the night as there will be nothing for self nor horse in camp.

Thursday May 14th

Overtook the command about 10 A.M. find no forage on this road. Go within 1/2 mile of Cookville & 1/2 mile of White Plains. This is a poor country indeed. return to the same camp we were at last night & have to make details and pack own horse back the forage for them tonight. Our horses are jaded having riden hard yesterday & today with but little for them to eat.

Friday May 15th

Go but a few miles today & camp on Martin’s Creek 3 miles from Granville. “It is on the Cumberland River” have to pack forage on horse back tonight as it is very Scarce & the detail sent out this morning were unable to get it.

Saturday May 16th

Have found forage enough to load the Wagons. Our Company goes towards Gainsboro 7 miles & presses 3 loads from a man that has but little. We left barely sufficient for his family. Camp 2-1/2 miles from Granville on Dry Creek.

Sunday May 17.

Move to Martin’s Creek 1/2 mile from Granville.

Monday May 18.

Our Company goes for two days rations of Corn which I had to press it from an old man who had more than he needed.

Tuesday May 19

Our Company with Co G on forage at Holleman’s ferry. Load 9 Wagons with Corn. Move camp 4 miles [up] the creek to get pasturage for the horses.

Wednesday May 20 –

No move until late this evening when I am ordered to take charge of ten

men and guard the ferry at Granville. The duty is light.

Thursday May 21.

Nothing transpiring to notice. The picket is relieved at nightfall when we returned to camp. return 800.

Friday May 22nd

Go after forage to Holleman’s ferry. Co G & F are guarding that ferry and the corn that has been accumulated there.

Saturday May 23rd

Wagons arrived after corn, load them at Holleman’s Ferry , get rations for one day & bring to camp on horseback. Am on picket at Granville with 10 Men.

Sunday May 24th

Relieved this morning and ordered to Regimental Camp 2 miles of Bunker Hill, 7 miles from Sparta, get to camp [after] dusk.

Monday May 25

Company on picket 1 mile from Bunker Hill. nothing new.

Tuesday May 26

Were ordered at midnight last night to report to camp immediately, and this morning before day we start for McMinville, go so far as Rock Island ford and there learn the Enemy who were reported as advancing upon that place had made a retrograde move. rest several hours when we return several miles and hasten our horses as there is no forage.

Wednesday May 27.

Return to camp 3 miles of Bunker Hill, put our horses in pasture. Callis has just reached the Company. E. John left 1 pair blankets of mine at Mr Webb at the factory in Sparta. Thursday May 28 Pasture horses in a clover field. no corn tonight.

Friday May 29

A little corn issued tonight. nothing new but reports are rife of fighting at Vicsburg. sent a letter to Charley. Col Farrill was arrested a few days ago for [Min

-Kinness] & is to be Court Martialed at Tullahoma.

Saturday May 30.

Company on picket under [LE or Lt] Adams. Nothing reliable from Vicksburg.

Sunday May 31st

Preaching by Rev McBuntine. Enemy crossed the River about Chesnut mound & fired into 4th Tenn.

Monday June 1

Nothing doing all the morning. Move camp down the Ky road about six miles on account of pasturage. Company relieved of picket duty. Capt Weston sent to Hospital for [detail], rec’d letter from John & Clancy.

Tuesday June 2.

Nothing of consequence.

Wednesday June 3.

Not a thing to notice.

Thursday June 4.

Company is on forage, go through [Flin’s] Lick to Maj Botts ferry and camp for the night. The forage is 1-1/2 mile on other side of the river. Wagons did not come up at night.

Friday June 5.

Cross Cumberland River and get two Wagon loads of forage. Get dinner at the same place. the old lady refused pay for it. Only risk one wagon at the time on north side of river.

Saturday June 6th

Load 5 or 6 Wagons with corn at Mrs Saddler’s the same place we were foraging at yesterday. all the detail eat at her house on her invitation. before the train is ready to return a courier is sent to us ordering all back in haste. It is reported the Enemy are between Liberty & Sligo & that they captured 200 of the 1st Reg on Snows Hill. News from Vicksburg is very encouraging indeed. Start to camp about 4 P.M. and reach it after traveling hard until long past midnight.

Sunday June 7th

Leave at sun rise this morning, & make a halt of some two hours at Sparta when we continue on and camp on south side of Caney Fork at Rock Island Ford. reports that the enemy are advancing on Shelbyville.

Monday June 8th

Start the wagons very early & we follow in a short while after. Our company on rear guard. Get to McMinville about noon. Collins River runs between Sparta & McM, about 3 miles from the latter place. Camp about 6 miles from McM on the Jacksboro Road. We cross Collins River again about 5-1/2 miles from McM. Wagons taken another road.

Tuesday June 9th

Saddled up and ready to start at a very early hour, move very slow as the artillery is in advance, reach “Beach Grove” M& Manchester pike about 4 P.M. & camp on road leading to Wartrace 1/2 mile from pike – Bassett & Ferris came up from Hospital – they have both recovered.

Wednesday June 10th

Raining nearly all day. ordered to be ready at 7 a.m. tomorrow to go on picket.

Thursday June 11th

Regiment relieves the 2nd Geo from picket this morning. Am officer of Guard, and have been all the morning until near 5 oclock P.M. Making the guard round, have to go again tonight and visit picket stands on the right of the pike, as the whole day was consumed on the left of the pike. I suppose it will take us nearly all night to get through. picketing just beyond [Hensens’] Gap.

Friday June 12th

Did not get to camp until near one oclock this morning, & then turned in for the balance of the night with Maj Cook. Waked late this morning & have felt drowsy all day, joined the Company at the reserve stand, nothing to notice. Cox came in looking badly, poor fellow he has had a hard time of it, sick about four months.

Saturday June 13th

Grazing my horse & together with washing has consumed nearly all the morning. The Enemy about 300 strong & 2 pieces of cannon made a dash at our reserve picket stand and then fell back. One man & one horse wounded – no other damage –

Sunday June 14th

Relieved from picket by Co D and return to camp. Preaching this forenoon by Rev McBuntine. Raining very hard with but a poor prospect for a good nights rest.

Monday June 15th

Made out tolerable well last night with the bad prospect we had in the early part of the night. Graze my horse all the forenoon, nothing else to do.

Tuesday June 16th

The regiment is relieved of picket by 1st Ky, and we fall back on the pikeabout a mile to be near a pasture. it is very sultry and promises rain in a few days – all quiet.

Wednesday June 17th

Inspection this forenoon by [ ] Gen [Layne’s] and drill in the afternoon by Maj Cook. Brig Gen Wharton & Col Harrison were present.

Thursday June 18th

It was understood yesterday that Maj Gen Hardee was to review Genl Wharton’s divn this morning. But he did not come. drill this forenoon, and Col Harrison took that occasion to lecture the officers of the Regt for Carelessness &tc &tc. My Horse is badly foundered this morning. bleed him in all his feet & then put him in water to his knee joints – Am on court martial to try Dodge & others who may be brought up. Court adjourned until tomorrow.

Friday June 19th

Court M has been adjourned until paper can be procured – Move at 9 A.M. and go through Belle Buckle camping 1 mile from there. My horse is very sore, so bad off that I am compelled to borrow Bob O’Brien’s mare to follow the regiment on. News from Va & Miss very encouraging. Regt Serenaded by band of Arkansas Regiment.

Saturday June 20th

My horse is mending slowly. rode out several miles from camp this forenoon.

Sunday June 21st

Up and prepared to move very early this morning, pass through New Fosterville on the RR and camp at Old Fosterville on M&S Pike where we are to picket. relieved Morgan’s 51st Cone Regt – 6 miles from Belle Buckle. rec’d letter from John & Charley. rode my horse and he seems much better. Dress parade this evening.

Monday June 22nd

Nothing to do. C. Martial ordered to meet but adjourned again for want of books.

Tuesday June 23rd

CourtM meet pursuant to adjournment & tried one case, & heard evidence on another, good report from Vicksburg, reported the enemy have forced the pickets on N&S pike back some miles.

Wednesday June 24th

The Court M had just found a verdict in the case continued from Yesterday when a courier came in from Picket stand & reported the enemy advancing with that it was determined to adjourn for an indefinite period. raining very hard. go to picket stand in the evening and learn they had been skirmishing all day with no advantage on either side, heavy firing has been [heard all ] day on our right & left & occasionally a Cannon would join in with its terrible voice of thunder. learn this evening that Col Crews on N&S Pike and also Paul Anderson at New Fosterville were compelled to fall back some 3 or 4 miles, and on Manchester Pike that the 1st Ky suffered severely in the loss on men with all the regimental wagons. Our Infantry were engaged near Liberty Gap, near Bell Buckle and in Hoover’s Gap. at the last named place the fighting is represented as being terrific – go into camp a little after dark about 11 miles from Shelbyville having fallen back to that point so as to be on a line with pickets on other roads. Our blankets are hardly laid down before we are ordered to saddle up “We thought to change camps” go 1/2 mile towards Shelbyville when we take a road leading towards the east, travel it all night long and just after day find ourselves in Belle Buckle. The road traveled was very rough, it was raining in torrents, and as dark as pitch and to add to other perplexities, the horse I have is but lately recovered from founder, [sore] footed and

much given to stumble & falling down, I was in constant apprehension of being badly bruised or perhaps have a bone broken – got to Belle Buckle with no mishap.

Thursday June 25th

Were at Belle Buckle at day light but did not stop to even rest horses, get to Fairfield in an hour or such a matter afterwards, ordered to build fires and dry our clothes, as we are all as wet as drowned rats. I leave the command to get a nail drove in my horses shoe and as they leave in a short while afterwards, I did not overtake them until noon, [found] them 6 miles from Shelbyville on a pike that runs towards Wartrace, stop to rest horses & men & let horses feed awhile. Go through wagon camp and supposed we are to camp there for night, but no halt is ordered. Go to Brigade head quarters & stop for a while thinking that is the ground selected for our camp, but it was not, learn of fighting down the pike and the Column is headed in that direction, go to Guy’s Gap & camp – about 10 miles from Shelbyville = note. Cavalry fighting on the pike about a mile beyond the Gap – a brisk little fight at Liberty Gap, & generally fighting during [much] time of the day all along the line – raining incessantly.

Friday June 26th

Stand in line of battle all day near Fosterville, raining pretty much all the time, no enemy having made his appearance we return to camp, Are ordered about 9 P.M. to cook 3 days rations. it is supposed the enemy are flanking us on Manchester pike.

Saturday June 27.

Camp is broken up and we are off before daylight – go to Belle Buckle & form line of battle – infantry are moving towards Wartrace. Suppose our army is falling back to Tullahoma. My horse needing a shoe I go with detail for that purpose. leave Regt mile at Belle B – go through Shelbyville and find there is no use to try to have horse shod there. most everything had been moved and the retreat of the army must have been conducted amicably as there were no stores destroyed & very little indeed left to fall into the hands of the enemy. Go to Shop on S&Fayetteville Pike & there learn of another 3 miles distant, Lieut Friend sends 11 men with me to that one, but after going find there

is no prospect to have our work done there, then go 5 miles on pike & get promise to do the work tomorrow, provided we burn coal. Agreed to, ordered by Capt F to join him immediately & start to comply with order when we are informed that he had left & gone towards Tullahoma, take road for that place 10 P.M. and in the fastest rain & the biggest drops I ever felt go but a few miles & find it impossible to proceed further on account of the jaded condition of our horses & from the soreness of their feet. Stop at a house for the night as it is far advanced.

Sunday June 28th

Up at day. Go but a few miles before we succeed in finding a shop. Get all the Horses shod and then go to Lynchburg, where we find Lt Friend – camp there at a church.

Monday June 29th

Busy until afternoon shoeing horses when we start for the regiment, pass through Tullahoma & camp 1/2 mile from there, as it is impossible to find them tonight. has been raining all Day. The Troops at Tullahoma are in good spirits & sanguine of success.

Tuesday June 30th

Get with the regiment early this morning and being in front are in line of battle nearly all day. go to wagon camp & get 3 days rations, then to the right wing. camp in Manchester & Decker [Allisonia] road. Saw Mitch as I passed through Tullahoma am Actg Adjt. Wednesday July 1st In line of battle this morning & at noon the enemy make their appearance, skirmishing & Some Cannon firing – move our regt to protect road that Genl Polk’s army passed over, get to Allisonia after night & then have to go on picket at Hinton’s Mill ferry 2-1/2 miles from Winchester – A is on Elk River.

Thursday July 2nd

The rear of Genl Cheathams div pass this morning. heavy cannonading heard on our right. We are ordered to join the brigade & then move out about a mile, part of the brigade is skirmishing with the enemy who have thrown some of their forces over the river on pontoons. camp 4 miles from Allisonia & after putting out pickets are ordered to call them in and move 2 miles further.

Friday July 3rd

Have to run our horses about 5 miles this morning to get to the Mts before the enemy cut us off. they are on our flank towards Winchester, Ascend the Mts at Cowan Station – and camp on the top of them 5 miles from the foot, Our Regiment on picket.

Saturday July 4th

Co H & K on picket last night with D as a reserve. The enemy drove in Co K videttes, came in with them & the guns of the Co being wet (only 4 firing) they were compelled to fall back on D, who charged charged them the enemy & drove them back. H being cut off had to come in by a circuitous route, they made a charge & drove the enemy back also, brisk skirmishing then by all the regiment, we fall back in order to get past RR track as it was reported Infantry advancing that way, from in rear of brigade, and as our regiment passed by the enemy appeared. When 4th Tenn fired a volley into them, they retreated in confusion to foot of Mts, our loss 1 killed & several wounded. Their loss 1 Col. 1 LtCol. 8 privates & several Wounded. Were it not that our guns were in wet condition they would have suffered much more. – In line of battle all that morning – then march into [Sweedens] cove where we camp.

Sunday July 5th

March down battle Creek to the mouth go down the River to Bridgeport and cross on RR bridge. Se several of my old friends of 5th Geo Regt. preparations made to burn RR bridge & to abandon Bridgeport, The fortifications here are very strong & seem to be perfect. Camp few miles from River on road leading to Shell Mound – (H & K in advance) – Claiborne

Monday July 6th

Cross a small range of mountains into Wills Valley & camp 2-1/2 miles from Trenton. leave several Wagons on this Mt, as the road is very bad, raining hard all day.

Tuesday July 7th

Claiborne assumes the duties of adjt and I go back to the Company, no move today, raining.

Wednesday July 8th

Inspection this morning, wrote clancy & sent the letter to Little Sis – raining – rec’d letter from clancy. no forage

Thursday July 9th

Nothing to do in camp all day. Bob Calder & Duff Adams Sick leave me in command of Co. No forage for horses. it has now the appearance of [fair] weather.

Friday July 10th

Fall of Vicksburg confirmed, it is a blow to the S.C. but it should act as a stimulous to more active exertions on our part. no change in camp. No forage for horses.