During the night almost completely without sleep, but not quite the agitation fever brings. Even wide awake, with closed eyes, visions of complete picture displays. Doctor Idler explains that such are the effects of Quinine.
Order: Eight-thirty o'clock. Mustering.
Immediately afterwards Inspection by General Rosencranz. The entire division is being inspected and it takes about five hours, where the General pointed out each man individually who was in need of shoes, pack, fieldbottle and breadsack. Moreover the most necessary Items shall supposedly be procured today.
While the other Regiments are being inspected ours is getting paid.
I am being paid up to the first of March and receive $209.50 in notes, since our allotment list remained behind in Fairfax. From Wehrle I receive $10 for deposit, what with the $11 I received from same on the first of the January $21 to his account - equalized -
We receive watch shoes, tent covers and raincoats.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
April, Tuesday 29, 1862
Woodsmill near Winchester.
Today as well the weather was very pleasant. I am going for a walk and feel only attacks of weakness.
In the afternoon I receive through Basson's intercession, a beautiful Heron to be stuffed as a present, from a soldier of the Garibaldi Regiment. Lt. Mathesins skins same.
Captain Hoefer too is suffering from the fever, supposedly badly afflicted.
In the evening I get another dose of Quinine.We take a little green tea with milk for the evening. Tea is a little strong for me. Yet I feel excellently during the night, that is to say warm.
Ruf our Postmaster arrives from New Creek with letters from the Twenty-first of March and the sixth of April.
Today as well the weather was very pleasant. I am going for a walk and feel only attacks of weakness.
In the afternoon I receive through Basson's intercession, a beautiful Heron to be stuffed as a present, from a soldier of the Garibaldi Regiment. Lt. Mathesins skins same.
Captain Hoefer too is suffering from the fever, supposedly badly afflicted.
In the evening I get another dose of Quinine.We take a little green tea with milk for the evening. Tea is a little strong for me. Yet I feel excellently during the night, that is to say warm.
Ruf our Postmaster arrives from New Creek with letters from the Twenty-first of March and the sixth of April.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
April, Monday 28, 1862
Woodsmill near Winchester - Bivouac
The weather is very pleasant.
I feel considerably better. I had a regular sweatbath last night, yet slept tolerably.
In the morning again five grains of Quinine.
I eat a little cream soup.
Captain Hoefer is building his Lust House to the Eternal Lamp, also called, "Sans Souce."
Doctor Idler brings me his woolen undershirt, since I have not been able to change mine in weeks.
Our things from Fairfax still have not arrived as yet.
After that I feel like a human being again.
My fever manifests itself occasionally through headaches in the temples.
I receive a beautiful green snake from Corporal ...... Company C.
The weather is very pleasant.
I feel considerably better. I had a regular sweatbath last night, yet slept tolerably.
In the morning again five grains of Quinine.
I eat a little cream soup.
Captain Hoefer is building his Lust House to the Eternal Lamp, also called, "Sans Souce."
Doctor Idler brings me his woolen undershirt, since I have not been able to change mine in weeks.
Our things from Fairfax still have not arrived as yet.
After that I feel like a human being again.
My fever manifests itself occasionally through headaches in the temples.
I receive a beautiful green snake from Corporal ...... Company C.
Friday, April 27, 2012
April, Sunday 27, 1862
Woodsmill by Winchester
Gloriously warm weather/
My unwellness subsides.
Nachtmann brought me eggs, butter and a little whitebread yesterday from which I eat with great relish.
The Major from the Garibaldi's was buried today. He had pneumonia.
Charge against Kistner for disobedience.
Report that the Regiment will be Paid the day after tomorrow.
Letter from Captain Karbaum in which he summons me to send him $5.00 to Washington.
Towards evening I again have fever. Doctor Idler expresses the opinion that it is a perfect manifestation of a cold fever. He gives me eight grains of Quinine which checked the fever for the rest of the night.
Gloriously warm weather/
My unwellness subsides.
Nachtmann brought me eggs, butter and a little whitebread yesterday from which I eat with great relish.
The Major from the Garibaldi's was buried today. He had pneumonia.
Charge against Kistner for disobedience.
Report that the Regiment will be Paid the day after tomorrow.
Letter from Captain Karbaum in which he summons me to send him $5.00 to Washington.
Towards evening I again have fever. Doctor Idler expresses the opinion that it is a perfect manifestation of a cold fever. He gives me eight grains of Quinine which checked the fever for the rest of the night.
April, Saturday 26, 1862
Woodsmill by Winchester
My fever is increasing.
The muster rolls are being completed.
I am extremely tired, sleep almost the entire day. No appetite. Lieutenant Dietz too is suffering, indeed more than I. My buffalo hide is of invaluable service to me.
A member from Company E was buried today.
Ord. Sergeant Mueller returns from New York. He brings me greetings from Captain Karbaum, who serves in the Staff Headquarters of Brigadier General Schurz.
My fever is increasing.
The muster rolls are being completed.
I am extremely tired, sleep almost the entire day. No appetite. Lieutenant Dietz too is suffering, indeed more than I. My buffalo hide is of invaluable service to me.
A member from Company E was buried today.
Ord. Sergeant Mueller returns from New York. He brings me greetings from Captain Karbaum, who serves in the Staff Headquarters of Brigadier General Schurz.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
April, Friday 25, 1862
Woodsmill, Bivouac By Winchester
Already during the night rain.
Report from the capture of Yorktown.
I take a Sponge bath and then take a pleasant walk with Doctor Idler and the Lieutenant Colonel.
Towards evening I feel unwell, feverish, nervous headache in the temples down the left side to the jawbone. Chills and sleepy. Perhaps cold from washing of the head.
Feverish, continuing chills.
Already during the night rain.
Report from the capture of Yorktown.
I take a Sponge bath and then take a pleasant walk with Doctor Idler and the Lieutenant Colonel.
Towards evening I feel unwell, feverish, nervous headache in the temples down the left side to the jawbone. Chills and sleepy. Perhaps cold from washing of the head.
Feverish, continuing chills.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
April, Thursday 24, 1862
Woodsmill, Bivouac By Winchester
Weather doubtful, changing winds.
Captain Hoefer and Nachtmann are going to Winchester to buy Summer trousers and such. They find a fullblooded Secessionist nest about twenty thousand inhabitants, where one cannot get anything for neither money nor kind words. A miserable hatchet 1 1/2 etc. bread cheap one loaf ten cents etc. The Proclamation from the Chief of the Provisionguard One Hundred Tenth Regiment P. V. alongside of the Proclamation from the Commander of the Homeguard.
We have fresh beef, rice and a half ration of crackers.
The number of sick i our Regiment is increasing.
Weather doubtful, changing winds.
Captain Hoefer and Nachtmann are going to Winchester to buy Summer trousers and such. They find a fullblooded Secessionist nest about twenty thousand inhabitants, where one cannot get anything for neither money nor kind words. A miserable hatchet 1 1/2 etc. bread cheap one loaf ten cents etc. The Proclamation from the Chief of the Provisionguard One Hundred Tenth Regiment P. V. alongside of the Proclamation from the Commander of the Homeguard.
We have fresh beef, rice and a half ration of crackers.
The number of sick i our Regiment is increasing.
Monday, April 23, 2012
April, Wednesday 23, 1862
Woodsmill, Bivouac by Winchester
Weather pleasant but cold.
Towards noon warm.
I feel very weary and weak. Am going for a walk and sleep in the sunshine.
We receive salted meat and rice.
Weather pleasant but cold.
Towards noon warm.
I feel very weary and weak. Am going for a walk and sleep in the sunshine.
We receive salted meat and rice.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
April, Tuesday 22, 1862
Woodsmill Bivouac by Winchester
The weather is clearing up. We receive at noon bacon and rice, otherwise we are still biding our time, waiting, without clothing, shoes, soap, etc.
No Quartermaster makes his appearance.
It is said that General Rosencranz returned to Washington to procure for us the badly needed necessities. The bridge by Harpers Ferry was supposedly, with all the rain we have had, washed out, consequently this has encroached upon the transportation.
Towards noon Officers Call.
After roll call was held, we find a considerable part of the men from Company C missing. Eight men. A safeguard from the Blenker Regiment supposedly was threatened with violence by a party of soldiers namely from Company C Forty-fifth. In the afternoon, I with Sergeant Messmann and two other men, undertake a patrol to look for the missing men. We arrive at the Mill where a pair from Blenkers Regiment, in customary manner, are playing Safeguard, which means to loaf about and let themselves be fed by the farmers. We find one of them in the yard lying on his belly sound asleep. The Guards are not even carrying Bayonet Sidearms. We find the same conditions on two or three other farms. We also find our men as Volunteer Safeguards on a distant farm, however, on duty.
They receive for punishment Watch Duty.
The weather is clearing up. We receive at noon bacon and rice, otherwise we are still biding our time, waiting, without clothing, shoes, soap, etc.
No Quartermaster makes his appearance.
It is said that General Rosencranz returned to Washington to procure for us the badly needed necessities. The bridge by Harpers Ferry was supposedly, with all the rain we have had, washed out, consequently this has encroached upon the transportation.
Towards noon Officers Call.
After roll call was held, we find a considerable part of the men from Company C missing. Eight men. A safeguard from the Blenker Regiment supposedly was threatened with violence by a party of soldiers namely from Company C Forty-fifth. In the afternoon, I with Sergeant Messmann and two other men, undertake a patrol to look for the missing men. We arrive at the Mill where a pair from Blenkers Regiment, in customary manner, are playing Safeguard, which means to loaf about and let themselves be fed by the farmers. We find one of them in the yard lying on his belly sound asleep. The Guards are not even carrying Bayonet Sidearms. We find the same conditions on two or three other farms. We also find our men as Volunteer Safeguards on a distant farm, however, on duty.
They receive for punishment Watch Duty.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
April, Monday 21, 1862
Bivouac by Winchester
Rainy weather almost without stopping. Only through hugging watchfires can we in some measure keep orderly.
Rations, nothing but coffee and crackers, nevertheless, the people are patient.
Afternoon: We must supply one hundred men from the Regiment for Division Watch. In the torrential rain, pitifully clothed, especially the feet, to what amounts to only forain (show) duty. For example: Miserable negro huts in which a few old women and a child live, or in front of an old old shanty in which a few broken barrels are to be watched etc. etc.
Yet the men are willing.
Rainy weather almost without stopping. Only through hugging watchfires can we in some measure keep orderly.
Rations, nothing but coffee and crackers, nevertheless, the people are patient.
Afternoon: We must supply one hundred men from the Regiment for Division Watch. In the torrential rain, pitifully clothed, especially the feet, to what amounts to only forain (show) duty. For example: Miserable negro huts in which a few old women and a child live, or in front of an old old shanty in which a few broken barrels are to be watched etc. etc.
Yet the men are willing.
Friday, April 20, 2012
April, Sunday 20, 1862
Woodville - Bivouac Winchester..
EASTER
Unpleasant weather. Rain off and on all day long.
All day nothing but coffee, at night an extra ration with the remark "This is instead of the meat ration."
Yesterday when three oxen were in the process of being shot for Yesterday's and today's meat rations, one of them, was wounded in the nose by Captain Leonhardt and all three of them took leave never to be seen again. Consequently only coffee and crackers.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
April, Saturday 19, 1862
Woodsville - Bivouac by Winchester
Last night we housed well between rocks. About one o'clock arrival on a hill in front of Mount Rose near Winchester. Rest until three o'clock. Coffee
Officer's Meeting:
First General Order of General Rosencranz under whose Chief Command the German Divisions are, was to express recognition and appreciation for the hardships we have suffered etc.
At three o'clock departure to Mount Ws (Williams?) Headquarters of General Rosencranz (Brownie)
We have a river to cross with a very strong current, over which a provisionary bridge had been erected.
Breakfast in a meadow. Stop after that.
Inspection by the General, who on his horse stops in front of his Headquarters, alongside of him on foot is Blenker without sabre and helps to salute. At a fifteen minute distance from here on a hill bivouac of the Division.
The post arrives with very few letters, the rest supposedly remained in Hunters Chapel. A thunderstorm is threatening, but passes. General building of huts, some in the form of toll-stations, other just roofs three cornered round, some in the form of a mussel wound with rubber blanket, still others in a round arch with hoops.*
At the same time we were informed that we will camp here by Winchester for about eight days in order to get paid up to the first of March, also to equip us with the necessary clothing, wagons, ambulances. Great shortage. The majority of the men with shoes completely in tatters.
* This paragraph is hand illustrated with diagrams of the various types of huts.
Last night we housed well between rocks. About one o'clock arrival on a hill in front of Mount Rose near Winchester. Rest until three o'clock. Coffee
Officer's Meeting:
First General Order of General Rosencranz under whose Chief Command the German Divisions are, was to express recognition and appreciation for the hardships we have suffered etc.
At three o'clock departure to Mount Ws (Williams?) Headquarters of General Rosencranz (Brownie)
We have a river to cross with a very strong current, over which a provisionary bridge had been erected.
Breakfast in a meadow. Stop after that.
Inspection by the General, who on his horse stops in front of his Headquarters, alongside of him on foot is Blenker without sabre and helps to salute. At a fifteen minute distance from here on a hill bivouac of the Division.
The post arrives with very few letters, the rest supposedly remained in Hunters Chapel. A thunderstorm is threatening, but passes. General building of huts, some in the form of toll-stations, other just roofs three cornered round, some in the form of a mussel wound with rubber blanket, still others in a round arch with hoops.*
At the same time we were informed that we will camp here by Winchester for about eight days in order to get paid up to the first of March, also to equip us with the necessary clothing, wagons, ambulances. Great shortage. The majority of the men with shoes completely in tatters.
* This paragraph is hand illustrated with diagrams of the various types of huts.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
April, Friday 18, 1862
Gorgeous sunny weather, slight breeze.
We are marching slowly until nine o'clock to Berryville.
Small City, two printing establishments, Industry, many slaves.
The Union Hotel in the City is occupied by the eight-fourth Regiment.
Nine-thirty o'clock: rest in the forest.
We are marching slowly until nine o'clock to Berryville.
Small City, two printing establishments, Industry, many slaves.
The Union Hotel in the City is occupied by the eight-fourth Regiment.
Nine-thirty o'clock: rest in the forest.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
April, Thursday 17, 1862
Shnikerville - Shnikers Gap - Snikers Ferry*
In the morning we received chicken and one half ration of coffee. Departure nine o'clock.
Warm summersday. March to Snikerville, two miles short of Shenandoah Bridge. One o'clock to the river Shenandoah, arrive one thirty o'clock. Our way through fields and forest was either wet, or swampy, or just rocky.
Later deeper into the mountains on the Alexander** Winchester Turnpike. Excellent.
Shnikerville - Small mountain city.
The Shenandoah is about one hundred and twenty-five feet wide here and a wonderful ferryboat. Two boats with a platform, two small boats with three rudders in each boat, rudder in each boat serve as steering wheel. A wire rope spanned across the river in connection with a bottlepul constitutes an excellent mechanism so that a loaded boat cuts through the river obliquely in six minutes. At times eighty-eight men in one boat.
We are resting at the shore, cook coffee, receive crackers. After that, about five o'clock we, one and one-half Company are transported across. General Banks has sent Seamen to us, who accomplish the task with assurance and safety. I take my hat off to American ingenuity.
After a fifteen minute march we bivouac on a hill. Wheat and oats serve as spread. Beef and bouillon for evening meal. I have the jour (day) for the kitchen. (Kitchen Officer). Difficulty, only bath and two kettles are at our disposal.
Warm night, wonderful road.
*Present day Snickersville, Virginia. Before that it was Snickerville.
**Alexandria Winchester. Present day Virginia State Route 7. See history on Wikipedia.
In the morning we received chicken and one half ration of coffee. Departure nine o'clock.
Warm summersday. March to Snikerville, two miles short of Shenandoah Bridge. One o'clock to the river Shenandoah, arrive one thirty o'clock. Our way through fields and forest was either wet, or swampy, or just rocky.
Later deeper into the mountains on the Alexander** Winchester Turnpike. Excellent.
Shnikerville - Small mountain city.
The Shenandoah is about one hundred and twenty-five feet wide here and a wonderful ferryboat. Two boats with a platform, two small boats with three rudders in each boat, rudder in each boat serve as steering wheel. A wire rope spanned across the river in connection with a bottlepul constitutes an excellent mechanism so that a loaded boat cuts through the river obliquely in six minutes. At times eighty-eight men in one boat.
We are resting at the shore, cook coffee, receive crackers. After that, about five o'clock we, one and one-half Company are transported across. General Banks has sent Seamen to us, who accomplish the task with assurance and safety. I take my hat off to American ingenuity.
After a fifteen minute march we bivouac on a hill. Wheat and oats serve as spread. Beef and bouillon for evening meal. I have the jour (day) for the kitchen. (Kitchen Officer). Difficulty, only bath and two kettles are at our disposal.
Warm night, wonderful road.
*Present day Snickersville, Virginia. Before that it was Snickerville.
**Alexandria Winchester. Present day Virginia State Route 7. See history on Wikipedia.
Monday, April 16, 2012
April, Wednesday 16, 1862
East from Paris
We are resting until noon then march from twelve-thirty o'clock until five o'clock in the afternoon.
We reach a pleasant clearing where we halt and bivouac.
The weather is Springlike, lovely.
Evening: Chickensoup. I would like creamsoup.
We are resting until noon then march from twelve-thirty o'clock until five o'clock in the afternoon.
We reach a pleasant clearing where we halt and bivouac.
The weather is Springlike, lovely.
Evening: Chickensoup. I would like creamsoup.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
April, Tuesday 15, 1862
On the Shenandoah, Berry's Ferry.
The weather is very unfriendly and our hut consisting of rubber blankets is not waterproof.
A lot of diarrhea is in the Regiment. Rations of crackers are missing, also coffee and sugar. One starts to follow the example of the peasants to brew coffee from barley and wheat. Creamed soups as well find approval especially so, by the sick.
Lots of rain weather with Eastwind. In the afternoon towards five o'clock the report arrives that by the crossing of the Shenandoah one boat occupied by two Companies, J - K from the fourteenth Regiment, turned over and about seventy men drowned. I am going down to Lieutenant Gerick from Company C and Sergeant Klingner to find out.
The Fortieth Regiment bivouacs on the hill close by the river the waters of which evidently are streaming down with a slight whirl. It is supposed to be one of the deepest spots of the river. On the right side interrupted with two small islands. The place where the Ferry plies back and forth is about twelve to fourteen feet deep. The terror and the bitterness of the eye witnesses was great, especially so since the cause of the mishap, according to almost unanimous statements was due to poor management of the entire operation. The boat according to an expert's (marine) estimation should have been loaded with no more than forty men. It had about eighty-four men with heavy packs, guns, etc. The boat was so crowded that in the event of it rocking in the river it was impossible to balance. Quartermaster Wiek (Philadelphia book merchant) apparently restored some sort of order. He was summoned to take five Union boats that were available, to float alongside the loaded boats to act as lifeboats. He refused, since one transport without escorts already had been shipped safely across. On the way across, the people were asked to pull on the rope that had been spanned across the river, thereby the beak (bow) bow of the boat was pressed down and started to rock until it drew water, went on its side, and all but five of the occupants plunged overboard one after another, under heart rendering screams. After that the boat again straightened itself. Very few were in the position to save themselves since they were too heavily pa...ed, although only a few paces from the shore. Among the ones saved was the wife of a Sergeant. He too come out alive. Apparently all the clothes the woman wore acted as a float. Others like Sergeant Tiemann , brother of Adjutant Tiemann, already was with half his body at the shore when three desperate individuals who had fastened themselves to him, pulled him back and down. We were told that the sight was horrible, as one saw from the distance only the hands above water to disappear forever.
In the moment of the catastrophe Lieutenant Colonel Mahler is supposed to have made the remark, "If only the muskets and munition were out". General Bohlen to whose Brigade the Regiment belonged, was called to, from the other side of the shore: "He should take his revolver and again shoot into the people and so end the suffering of the unfortunate ones". The same one is supposed to have shot into his people in the post when he found them in the act of marauding. Now that the rations are in part missing in part very irregular he too closes an eye here and there. Only when he meets soldiers from other Brigades does he relieve them of their loot.
The unwillingness of the soldiers is so great that one cannot even think of another crossing especially since a few miles up river there is supposed to be a bridge.
Night: Marching readiness.
Twelve o'clock we and the Blenkers are awakened without any noise.
We march back to Paris as far as to a hill where we at about two o'clock bivouac. We get through the night without rain. In the morning the weather is mild. We receive meat and flour, and are supposed to march as soon as we are through eating. Bread, even crackers are missing for several days now.
The weather is very unfriendly and our hut consisting of rubber blankets is not waterproof.
A lot of diarrhea is in the Regiment. Rations of crackers are missing, also coffee and sugar. One starts to follow the example of the peasants to brew coffee from barley and wheat. Creamed soups as well find approval especially so, by the sick.
Lots of rain weather with Eastwind. In the afternoon towards five o'clock the report arrives that by the crossing of the Shenandoah one boat occupied by two Companies, J - K from the fourteenth Regiment, turned over and about seventy men drowned. I am going down to Lieutenant Gerick from Company C and Sergeant Klingner to find out.
The Fortieth Regiment bivouacs on the hill close by the river the waters of which evidently are streaming down with a slight whirl. It is supposed to be one of the deepest spots of the river. On the right side interrupted with two small islands. The place where the Ferry plies back and forth is about twelve to fourteen feet deep. The terror and the bitterness of the eye witnesses was great, especially so since the cause of the mishap, according to almost unanimous statements was due to poor management of the entire operation. The boat according to an expert's (marine) estimation should have been loaded with no more than forty men. It had about eighty-four men with heavy packs, guns, etc. The boat was so crowded that in the event of it rocking in the river it was impossible to balance. Quartermaster Wiek (Philadelphia book merchant) apparently restored some sort of order. He was summoned to take five Union boats that were available, to float alongside the loaded boats to act as lifeboats. He refused, since one transport without escorts already had been shipped safely across. On the way across, the people were asked to pull on the rope that had been spanned across the river, thereby the beak (bow) bow of the boat was pressed down and started to rock until it drew water, went on its side, and all but five of the occupants plunged overboard one after another, under heart rendering screams. After that the boat again straightened itself. Very few were in the position to save themselves since they were too heavily pa...ed, although only a few paces from the shore. Among the ones saved was the wife of a Sergeant. He too come out alive. Apparently all the clothes the woman wore acted as a float. Others like Sergeant Tiemann , brother of Adjutant Tiemann, already was with half his body at the shore when three desperate individuals who had fastened themselves to him, pulled him back and down. We were told that the sight was horrible, as one saw from the distance only the hands above water to disappear forever.
In the moment of the catastrophe Lieutenant Colonel Mahler is supposed to have made the remark, "If only the muskets and munition were out". General Bohlen to whose Brigade the Regiment belonged, was called to, from the other side of the shore: "He should take his revolver and again shoot into the people and so end the suffering of the unfortunate ones". The same one is supposed to have shot into his people in the post when he found them in the act of marauding. Now that the rations are in part missing in part very irregular he too closes an eye here and there. Only when he meets soldiers from other Brigades does he relieve them of their loot.
The unwillingness of the soldiers is so great that one cannot even think of another crossing especially since a few miles up river there is supposed to be a bridge.
Night: Marching readiness.
Twelve o'clock we and the Blenkers are awakened without any noise.
We march back to Paris as far as to a hill where we at about two o'clock bivouac. We get through the night without rain. In the morning the weather is mild. We receive meat and flour, and are supposed to march as soon as we are through eating. Bread, even crackers are missing for several days now.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
April, Monday 14, 1862
On the Shenandoah
Weather cold, towards noon mild, general bathing.
Landmann tells me that from my things that remained behind in Fairfax, only the sash and some other things were destroyed by fire but my opera glasses etc. were saved and are now in the hands of the Quartermaster.
We are no longer under Mac Cleland but independent, (impotent?) The Division from Winchester is supposed to be bound for Harpers Ferry and Wheeling. Our mail is supposed to have been caught by the Enemy.
Landmann contradicts the report of the weapon incident in the Warrenton Hospital. An Irish Officer who had remained behind for the burial of a comrade, out of fear wanted his weapons in a safe place, give rise for this report. The same one was seen by Landmann on the road carrying on his horse a Parliamentaer (sic) Flag (Flag of Truce)
The transportation across the river is proceeding very slowly and the German Engineers give cause for a lot of cheerfulness. The ferry boat that usually is stationed here, has been driven away four miles from here by the rebels who at the same time tried to damage it, is supposed to be brought back.
At night rain.
The transportation across the river lasts all night. Our Artillery is leaving here during the night, to find a crossing somewhere else.
I receive three squirrels which I am trying to raise with honey and crackers.
Weather cold, towards noon mild, general bathing.
Landmann tells me that from my things that remained behind in Fairfax, only the sash and some other things were destroyed by fire but my opera glasses etc. were saved and are now in the hands of the Quartermaster.
We are no longer under Mac Cleland but independent, (impotent?) The Division from Winchester is supposed to be bound for Harpers Ferry and Wheeling. Our mail is supposed to have been caught by the Enemy.
Landmann contradicts the report of the weapon incident in the Warrenton Hospital. An Irish Officer who had remained behind for the burial of a comrade, out of fear wanted his weapons in a safe place, give rise for this report. The same one was seen by Landmann on the road carrying on his horse a Parliamentaer (sic) Flag (Flag of Truce)
The transportation across the river is proceeding very slowly and the German Engineers give cause for a lot of cheerfulness. The ferry boat that usually is stationed here, has been driven away four miles from here by the rebels who at the same time tried to damage it, is supposed to be brought back.
At night rain.
The transportation across the river lasts all night. Our Artillery is leaving here during the night, to find a crossing somewhere else.
I receive three squirrels which I am trying to raise with honey and crackers.
Friday, April 13, 2012
April, Sunday 13, 1862
Paris
Rest on the Shenandoah Hill.
We cannot pass the river right in front of us for the current is too strong, and experimenting with building a bridge failed.
The German engineering comes to a considerable falter. In the morning the weather is piercingly cold, towards noon a little warmer. Now rafts and floats are built and after several attempts this too has to be given up. Inspite of it we are transported across by boat, only very slowly.
The night is cold.
A part of our Company on a neighboring hill in the forest are in very comfortable huts. whilst Brigade Stahl passes on the wet (West?) hill, on camp watch and pickets.
Rain is threatening for the night, yet we come through it tolerably.
Kistner and Feihner return.
In the afternoon Landmann arrives.
I take tickets for $3 and get for Nachtmann 1 1/4 plum brandy.
Rest on the Shenandoah Hill.
We cannot pass the river right in front of us for the current is too strong, and experimenting with building a bridge failed.
The German engineering comes to a considerable falter. In the morning the weather is piercingly cold, towards noon a little warmer. Now rafts and floats are built and after several attempts this too has to be given up. Inspite of it we are transported across by boat, only very slowly.
The night is cold.
A part of our Company on a neighboring hill in the forest are in very comfortable huts. whilst Brigade Stahl passes on the wet (West?) hill, on camp watch and pickets.
Rain is threatening for the night, yet we come through it tolerably.
Kistner and Feihner return.
In the afternoon Landmann arrives.
I take tickets for $3 and get for Nachtmann 1 1/4 plum brandy.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
April, Saturday, 12, 1862
Paris, Virginia
Rest with the most beautiful weather until five o'clock.
Departure, marching through Paris until about seven-thirty o'clock. We are marching on good roads through hilly country sown and greening. Rocks studded with quartz. At the arrival of our halting place Padre takes a tentpost on his shoulder and so marches the Regiment to their bivouac.
We cannot pass the Shenandoah River Gap (Ashby Gap?) by bridge and it is said that the entire Division will be transported by boat.
Missing from our Company are Kistner and Feihner, habitual stragglers.
Report that our sick and wounded who were left behind in the Warrenton Hospital were robbed of their weapons by swarms of the enemy. Only the prospect of retaliation towards the frightened inhabitants spared them from further abuse.
One soldier is riding comfortably on an oxen whom Arthur recognizes as "Old Sam", property of his former Master. The oxen is carrying the soldier's rolled coat around his neck, and is marching without rein, exceedingly well with us.
Rest with the most beautiful weather until five o'clock.
Departure, marching through Paris until about seven-thirty o'clock. We are marching on good roads through hilly country sown and greening. Rocks studded with quartz. At the arrival of our halting place Padre takes a tentpost on his shoulder and so marches the Regiment to their bivouac.
We cannot pass the Shenandoah River Gap (Ashby Gap?) by bridge and it is said that the entire Division will be transported by boat.
Missing from our Company are Kistner and Feihner, habitual stragglers.
Report that our sick and wounded who were left behind in the Warrenton Hospital were robbed of their weapons by swarms of the enemy. Only the prospect of retaliation towards the frightened inhabitants spared them from further abuse.
One soldier is riding comfortably on an oxen whom Arthur recognizes as "Old Sam", property of his former Master. The oxen is carrying the soldier's rolled coat around his neck, and is marching without rein, exceedingly well with us.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
April, Friday 11, 1862
Salem - - Paris
Morning: Eight o'clock line formation. We are in the rear guard.
An axe we found at our arrival in the last house, is being returned there. It is the house of a John A. Denis whose sister and mother etc. still live there. Denis was taken prisoner by the Mounted Rifles on 2/12 by Anandale.
By chance, members of Company A-45th Mounted Rifles had lodged in the same house and last gotten prisoners by that affair.
Nine-thirty o'clock: Marching off.
We are getting deeper into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Roads tolerable, here and there interrupted by freshets.
Piedmont Station.
Beautifully situated on the slope of a mountain and brook.
A party of slaves in flight report here. George for the staff, another George for Captain Hoefer.
After a short rest we start marching again. We arrive at a mill where shortly before, the Enemy had supposedly destroyed a large amount of flour. Colored Miller. Three soldiers take over and do the work, they catch up with us after several hours. During our march on the road we meet up with a Negro boy fourteen years of age who wants to come with us. I take him. His name is Arthur Jackson. His open lively nature is liked by all.
We pass other groups of slaves. However they do not venture to come with us. Arthur hides in the wagon train. Link exchanges his cap for Arthur's hat.
Arrival in Upperville. Small friendly village in mountain basin.
After a long wait, at sundown we start marching again until we are close by Paris. Ten-thirty o'clock we arrive before a hill and spend the night in open air. Paris a sort of village, charmingly situated in the valley.
Arthur has four brothers and two sisters younger than himself by his mother and his (step) father of eight years, sold to the South. Former property of a "John Javis" by ...... who shortly before in a fanning machine badly injured his arm.
During our rest in the morning a Negro family arrives, Father, Mother, Daughter about sixteen years of age, Son about twelve years of age, slaves from Gibson. They want to be free. They arrived in their Sunday best, clean and of respectable nature. "We belong to an owner but we cannot stand it anymore." Aside from tham, more arrive fifteen in all. One has frightened the slaves with the lie, that the North wants to sell them to Cuba, in order to cover the cost of war.
Morning: Eight o'clock line formation. We are in the rear guard.
An axe we found at our arrival in the last house, is being returned there. It is the house of a John A. Denis whose sister and mother etc. still live there. Denis was taken prisoner by the Mounted Rifles on 2/12 by Anandale.
By chance, members of Company A-45th Mounted Rifles had lodged in the same house and last gotten prisoners by that affair.
Nine-thirty o'clock: Marching off.
We are getting deeper into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Roads tolerable, here and there interrupted by freshets.
Piedmont Station.
Beautifully situated on the slope of a mountain and brook.
A party of slaves in flight report here. George for the staff, another George for Captain Hoefer.
After a short rest we start marching again. We arrive at a mill where shortly before, the Enemy had supposedly destroyed a large amount of flour. Colored Miller. Three soldiers take over and do the work, they catch up with us after several hours. During our march on the road we meet up with a Negro boy fourteen years of age who wants to come with us. I take him. His name is Arthur Jackson. His open lively nature is liked by all.
We pass other groups of slaves. However they do not venture to come with us. Arthur hides in the wagon train. Link exchanges his cap for Arthur's hat.
Arrival in Upperville. Small friendly village in mountain basin.
After a long wait, at sundown we start marching again until we are close by Paris. Ten-thirty o'clock we arrive before a hill and spend the night in open air. Paris a sort of village, charmingly situated in the valley.
Arthur has four brothers and two sisters younger than himself by his mother and his (step) father of eight years, sold to the South. Former property of a "John Javis" by ...... who shortly before in a fanning machine badly injured his arm.
During our rest in the morning a Negro family arrives, Father, Mother, Daughter about sixteen years of age, Son about twelve years of age, slaves from Gibson. They want to be free. They arrived in their Sunday best, clean and of respectable nature. "We belong to an owner but we cannot stand it anymore." Aside from tham, more arrive fifteen in all. One has frightened the slaves with the lie, that the North wants to sell them to Cuba, in order to cover the cost of war.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
April, Thursday, 10, 1862
Salem, Lawrence Farm
Gorgeous weather.
The sun is so strong it is melting the snow.
Link returns. He decided to stay on a farm for the night.
Two pigs belonging to Farmer Lawrence are being butchered, one of them was pregnant.
In the evening report of our impending departure tomorrow.
The weather is, inspite of the snow, so warm that I take a foot bath in the brook.
Packs belonging to prisoners from Company A. Forty-fifth Rifles, were found in the neighborhood.
Gorgeous weather.
The sun is so strong it is melting the snow.
Link returns. He decided to stay on a farm for the night.
Two pigs belonging to Farmer Lawrence are being butchered, one of them was pregnant.
In the evening report of our impending departure tomorrow.
The weather is, inspite of the snow, so warm that I take a foot bath in the brook.
Packs belonging to prisoners from Company A. Forty-fifth Rifles, were found in the neighborhood.
Monday, April 9, 2012
April, Wednesday 9, 1862
Salem, Lawrence Farm.
Morning: From nine-thirty o'clock to one o'clock Forage party to the Washington Farm. Colonel John A. Washington was killed on Enemy side during the war. Property is being managed by an overseer. The Farm resembles a principality with domains. During our arrival the Garibaldi Regiment is taking possession of the property. We receive two wagons full of oats and more of different things for receipt.
Weather and roads are very bad. Snow and ice. Our wagons supposedly have been cut off.
Provisions in abundance.
We receive two 1lbs. flour per man.
Link is missing from our forage party.
Evening: Alarm sounded.
Orders to send out patrol.
Deep snow.
Night Patrol.
Morning: From nine-thirty o'clock to one o'clock Forage party to the Washington Farm. Colonel John A. Washington was killed on Enemy side during the war. Property is being managed by an overseer. The Farm resembles a principality with domains. During our arrival the Garibaldi Regiment is taking possession of the property. We receive two wagons full of oats and more of different things for receipt.
Weather and roads are very bad. Snow and ice. Our wagons supposedly have been cut off.
Provisions in abundance.
We receive two 1lbs. flour per man.
Link is missing from our forage party.
Evening: Alarm sounded.
Orders to send out patrol.
Deep snow.
Night Patrol.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
April, Tuesday 8, 1862
Salem, Lawrence Farm
The entire day rain and snow.
Lawrence Farm small-rented. Two men, one son killed in the Enemy Army by Bull Run. Rent for farm, one third of harvest. On richer farms often one-half of the harvest. Monnayland (Money) is tobaccoland. Is 2 - 3 su??d out. Small farms do not get ahead, cannot make anything to money.
Lawrence is at the same time Weaver for homemade cloth and material for slaves. One negro woman slave about thirty-seven years of age is running the household. Men are quartered in the dark kitchen. Fear on part of the woman for our men. She does not go to bed at all the first night, although we told her to, at least fifty times. She keeps her three year old girl with her on her lap. Aside from that two boys, five and seven years of age, pretty mulatto children. The mother still had four other children, part rented out, part sold. She is diligent and orderly, has learned to read and write by a former mistress inspite of the law forbidding it.
D. 9th A P
The entire day rain and snow.
Lawrence Farm small-rented. Two men, one son killed in the Enemy Army by Bull Run. Rent for farm, one third of harvest. On richer farms often one-half of the harvest. Monnayland (Money) is tobaccoland. Is 2 - 3 su??d out. Small farms do not get ahead, cannot make anything to money.
Lawrence is at the same time Weaver for homemade cloth and material for slaves. One negro woman slave about thirty-seven years of age is running the household. Men are quartered in the dark kitchen. Fear on part of the woman for our men. She does not go to bed at all the first night, although we told her to, at least fifty times. She keeps her three year old girl with her on her lap. Aside from that two boys, five and seven years of age, pretty mulatto children. The mother still had four other children, part rented out, part sold. She is diligent and orderly, has learned to read and write by a former mistress inspite of the law forbidding it.
D. 9th A P
Saturday, April 7, 2012
April, Monday 7, 1862
Morning:
Seven-thirty o'clock March Orders, Forth-fifth** as Front Skirmishers.
Weather dreary and cold.
We are marching until four o'clock to Salem. We are marching without knowing whereto. First order from General - "As far as the church." The direction is North West. Company A-B-C-K are forming the head of the vanguard, besides a Company of Mounted Rifles. We, Company C, on the right side of the street as Tirailleurs. (Skirmishers)
Farms, Houses, etc.
On one farm a barrel of explosive powder.
Afternoon: rain and snow.
About four o'clock the Twenty-Seventh had possession of many houses.
We are led through the city into the forest to bivouac in snow and ice. Great discontent.
We are building and digging at the corner of a stone fence.
Evening: Hospitality extended to us by Doctor Idler.
In the morning we go over to Lawrences Farm, Hoefer, I and three others.
** I suspect this is a typo and should be Forty-fifth.
Seven-thirty o'clock March Orders, Forth-fifth** as Front Skirmishers.
Weather dreary and cold.
We are marching until four o'clock to Salem. We are marching without knowing whereto. First order from General - "As far as the church." The direction is North West. Company A-B-C-K are forming the head of the vanguard, besides a Company of Mounted Rifles. We, Company C, on the right side of the street as Tirailleurs. (Skirmishers)
Farms, Houses, etc.
On one farm a barrel of explosive powder.
Afternoon: rain and snow.
About four o'clock the Twenty-Seventh had possession of many houses.
We are led through the city into the forest to bivouac in snow and ice. Great discontent.
We are building and digging at the corner of a stone fence.
Evening: Hospitality extended to us by Doctor Idler.
In the morning we go over to Lawrences Farm, Hoefer, I and three others.
** I suspect this is a typo and should be Forty-fifth.
Friday, April 6, 2012
April, Sunday 6, 1862
Warrenton.
Morning: Five o'clock Marching Order for Eight thirty o'clock.
The most magnificent weather. Ground still wet.
I have irritability to diarrhea presumably from bouillon and meat (beef) that was too fat.
Departure ten-thirty o'clock.
Alongside of the railroad, good roads. Direction North West. Railroad far into the distance destroyed.
On the way we meet the vast wagon train Banks Division Second, Mass (N 11V) Eighteen P.V. etc. Prisoners, farmer, Latter locked up. He had taken one of ours prisoner and since he could not produce him was shot to death.
Enemy Cavalry.
Four-thirty o'clock Warrenton.
Beautiful small city. Villas - Lave offices. ** Great many slaves, churches, churches for the colored, they prefer us in their church rather than the Stinky Mississippians. Our prisoners from Warrenton Junction it is said were led through here, even officers with bound hands.
**Public baths.
Morning: Five o'clock Marching Order for Eight thirty o'clock.
The most magnificent weather. Ground still wet.
I have irritability to diarrhea presumably from bouillon and meat (beef) that was too fat.
Departure ten-thirty o'clock.
Alongside of the railroad, good roads. Direction North West. Railroad far into the distance destroyed.
On the way we meet the vast wagon train Banks Division Second, Mass (N 11V) Eighteen P.V. etc. Prisoners, farmer, Latter locked up. He had taken one of ours prisoner and since he could not produce him was shot to death.
Enemy Cavalry.
Four-thirty o'clock Warrenton.
Beautiful small city. Villas - Lave offices. ** Great many slaves, churches, churches for the colored, they prefer us in their church rather than the Stinky Mississippians. Our prisoners from Warrenton Junction it is said were led through here, even officers with bound hands.
**Public baths.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
April, Saturday 5, 1862
Warrenton Junction
The weather is clearing up. I take a bath in the brook.
Afternoon: Four o'clock relief.
During the night distant arrival of troops, especially Artillery. Banks Division.
The weather is clearing up. I take a bath in the brook.
Afternoon: Four o'clock relief.
During the night distant arrival of troops, especially Artillery. Banks Division.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
April, Friday 4, 1862
Warrenton Junction
Again beautiful weather. Footbath.
First Lieutenants Spangenberg and Heil draw lots over the candidacy for the Captainship of Company H.
Aside from that: Promotions for:
Lieutenant Barth from Company E to First Lieutenant
Company B.
Brevet Lieutenant Basson to Second Lieutenant Company E.
Lieutenant Dietz transferred to Company C.
Sergeant Kandler, Sergeant Major.
Corporal Keisterberg, Sergeant Company H.
Great discord over these appointments.
BEER
Marching readiness.
Afternoon: Companies A, B, C, on Picket Duty.
We receive two and one-half rations of crackers until Monday (twentyfive) and meat for two days. It is said that we will be marching off early tomorrow morning to Manassas -- Strassburg ?? I will write.
Rain starting four o'clock in the morning until about nine o'clock.
Quartermaster is going to Hunters Chapel.
Again beautiful weather. Footbath.
First Lieutenants Spangenberg and Heil draw lots over the candidacy for the Captainship of Company H.
Aside from that: Promotions for:
Lieutenant Barth from Company E to First Lieutenant
Company B.
Brevet Lieutenant Basson to Second Lieutenant Company E.
Lieutenant Dietz transferred to Company C.
Sergeant Kandler, Sergeant Major.
Corporal Keisterberg, Sergeant Company H.
Great discord over these appointments.
BEER
Marching readiness.
Afternoon: Companies A, B, C, on Picket Duty.
We receive two and one-half rations of crackers until Monday (twentyfive) and meat for two days. It is said that we will be marching off early tomorrow morning to Manassas -- Strassburg ?? I will write.
Rain starting four o'clock in the morning until about nine o'clock.
Quartermaster is going to Hunters Chapel.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
April, Thursday 3, 1862
Bivouac, Warrenton Junction
Veritable Summer weather, consequently Gronen and I take a bath in the brook. General rest and cleaning-up day.
Afternoon: Dress Parade
Evening: Interesting conversation with Lieutenant Wratislaw about the state of Beleaguering of "Comorn"** and campaign strategy.
I am sending a letter home with the portrait of Michaelis.
**Camnor ?
Veritable Summer weather, consequently Gronen and I take a bath in the brook. General rest and cleaning-up day.
Afternoon: Dress Parade
Evening: Interesting conversation with Lieutenant Wratislaw about the state of Beleaguering of "Comorn"** and campaign strategy.
I am sending a letter home with the portrait of Michaelis.
**Camnor ?
Monday, April 2, 2012
April, Wednesday 2, 1862
Warrenton Junction
Morning:
We are hearing canon thunder.
An expedition under strong coverage is going to neighboring farms to sharpen their axes.
Company C is sending under Basson ninety - - - -
Major Semsey brings the report from General Blenker that the German Division will not come to Fremont.
Landmann is going to Hunters Chapel.
The Fiftyfifth Regiment arrives, likewise a large portion from General Banks Division, Ninth N.Y., Tenth Indiana, etc.
I receive an exemplar of the Warrington Flag.
Dreary weather, changing winds, rain threatening. During the night wind changes into Northwind, Stars bright, sky clear also following day.
A portion from Banks Division arrives, Nineteenth Regiment, N.Y., Sixteenth Indiana, etc.
These are better equipped with wagons, tents, etc.
Our bivouac again is in the old place.
Morning:
We are hearing canon thunder.
An expedition under strong coverage is going to neighboring farms to sharpen their axes.
Company C is sending under Basson ninety - - - -
Major Semsey brings the report from General Blenker that the German Division will not come to Fremont.
Landmann is going to Hunters Chapel.
The Fiftyfifth Regiment arrives, likewise a large portion from General Banks Division, Ninth N.Y., Tenth Indiana, etc.
I receive an exemplar of the Warrington Flag.
Dreary weather, changing winds, rain threatening. During the night wind changes into Northwind, Stars bright, sky clear also following day.
A portion from Banks Division arrives, Nineteenth Regiment, N.Y., Sixteenth Indiana, etc.
These are better equipped with wagons, tents, etc.
Our bivouac again is in the old place.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
April, Tuesday 1, 1862
Picket Camp by Warrenton Junction
In the morning the weather is very pleasant. Seven o'clock, I take a very refreshing sponge and footbath in the brook.
A strong patrol under Gronen and Basson with twentytwo men, are going on reconnaissance. After two hours Gronen returns with some of the men. At the precise moment we receive orders to march back into camp. We return and take our meal, then move back into our previous camp, about two to three gunshots from here.
Finally Basson arrives with the rest of the men, Forage wagon, I receive a beautiful Company axe, an indicator and a small hammer. From Basson a knife and a smelling bottle.
We arrive at our old camping grounds.
Officer's Call. Report that we will get to General Fremont in West Virginia.
A shot just like a from canon is heard from the Garibaldi Camp next to us. A report that a Sergeant found a grenade and threw same into the bivouac fire. WITHOUT FOUNDATION.
The protection was strong. Infantry and Cavalry. Nevertheless about one hundred Enemy riders showed up and since no one knows if there were more riders hiding in the forest, we are sent into our Camp for security.
During noon General French's Brigade passes through.
One of the men who stood around the fire at the time of the explosion, had one of his legs shattered. The wounded man was taken into the hospital on a stretcher. This hospital is established on a neighboring farm.
Doctor Idler complains about the lamentable conditions in the Medical Department, for despite all efforts nothing has been done for same. There is a shortage of wagons, ambulances. Our Medical supplies are still in Hunter's Chapel.
The Director of the Division Hospital and another Doctor do not want to amputate the wounded man's leg, whereas all the other Doctors have voiced the opinion that this is the only way to save the man's life.
In the morning the weather is very pleasant. Seven o'clock, I take a very refreshing sponge and footbath in the brook.
A strong patrol under Gronen and Basson with twentytwo men, are going on reconnaissance. After two hours Gronen returns with some of the men. At the precise moment we receive orders to march back into camp. We return and take our meal, then move back into our previous camp, about two to three gunshots from here.
Finally Basson arrives with the rest of the men, Forage wagon, I receive a beautiful Company axe, an indicator and a small hammer. From Basson a knife and a smelling bottle.
We arrive at our old camping grounds.
Officer's Call. Report that we will get to General Fremont in West Virginia.
A shot just like a from canon is heard from the Garibaldi Camp next to us. A report that a Sergeant found a grenade and threw same into the bivouac fire. WITHOUT FOUNDATION.
The protection was strong. Infantry and Cavalry. Nevertheless about one hundred Enemy riders showed up and since no one knows if there were more riders hiding in the forest, we are sent into our Camp for security.
During noon General French's Brigade passes through.
One of the men who stood around the fire at the time of the explosion, had one of his legs shattered. The wounded man was taken into the hospital on a stretcher. This hospital is established on a neighboring farm.
Doctor Idler complains about the lamentable conditions in the Medical Department, for despite all efforts nothing has been done for same. There is a shortage of wagons, ambulances. Our Medical supplies are still in Hunter's Chapel.
The Director of the Division Hospital and another Doctor do not want to amputate the wounded man's leg, whereas all the other Doctors have voiced the opinion that this is the only way to save the man's life.
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