Camp Randall
Madison ?1861
My dear Parents:
No news will be of more interest to you than that which pertains to us.
We are in Camp Randall, Madison, at last, all safe and sound, [? Seuving]
arrived Wednesday, at 1 P. M. and are enjoying ourselves hugely; and now
I will give a full account of our journey form beginning to end. The weather
during our passage down the river was cold and rainy. Our fare on the boat
was miserable owing to the meanest of the Stewards, who seemed to think
we were little better than hogs feeding us on the very poorest food. The
beef was tough and all gristle. Our officers were indignant at these insults
and reprimanded him most severely. Of the scenery, I will nothing just
now. We arrived at Prairie du Chien at 3.30 P. M. next day and marched
up town to the post which is in a very dilapidated condition and unoccupied,
save by a few Irish. After an excellent meal we left at 6 o’clock for Madison.
At 7.30 minutes we reached Boscobel and were just leaving and had proceeded
a dozen rods when the train came very near being precipitated from a bridge
24 feet span in the water, the distance to the water form the bridge being
15 feet. Had we been under full speed, any of us would have been hurt or
killed. The rear cars in which we were would never have gone over any how.
The two right hand driving the engine wheels of, lunge over the bridge,
the others on it. Two men running up to the scene of disaster pitched over
the embankment into the water. The accident happened through the heedlessness
of the watchman. A kind Providence saved us from destruction. You may rely
on this account as correct for you will here that half of us ere killed,
if you have not already. No one was hurt in the boat. We slept in the cars
over night and at 9 A. M. next morning took the cares sent back form the
East and got into Madison at 1 P. M. We marched into Camp eliciting the
surprise and admiration all beholders especially the boys of the 11th Regt.,
1000 in numbers from whom went of cheer on cheer for us, pronouncing us
at once the best Company they had seen. Further more, our own Colonel in
a brief address to us, remarked that we are decidedly the best Company
that has ever come on to the grounds. We feel proud of course.
Of the clothing we have received and our rations. I will speak in my next.
Homer will write you about them and much more tomorrow. Our food is first
rate and an abundance of it. Direct your letter thus;
Camp Randall, Madison
Lyon Light Guards,
12th Regt. Wis. Volunteers.
It is with a sad heart I bid you farewell, amidst the cannon's roar but
I know I am in a holy cause and I have faith that Our Heaven Father will
take care of us all. We may never see you again but however that may be,
we will go forward doing our duty to God and our beloved Country. We think
of you often and dear parents write us soon.
Ever Your affectionate Son
Edwin
Camp Randall, Madison Nov 1st [1861]
Dear Father and Mother.
I promised you when I left home that I would write as often as Ed did. But I had about made up my mind no to write this time. Because he had most everything of interest, but I thought I might say a few words about camp-life. As Ed had related all of the incidents of our journey here. I will say nothing about that. We arrived day before yesterday, amid the cheers of 11th Reg. and were pronounced at once the best company that has ever been in Camp Randall. There are Eight Companies of the 12th Reg. in camp here, and tow more are expected tomorrow, then the Regiment will be full. The 11th Reg. that is in Camp here will leave for Missouri in about a week form this time. The day we arrived here, we received our blankets and a tin-plated cup and knife and for. The second day, every man one large spoon. The third day we got our shoes and India rubber blankets. But I suppose you wish to know about our fare. We have coffee twice a day, potatoes once a day generally, and hash. We have beef nearly every meal and good bread. We have molasses and apple-sauce sometimes have not had any pork, but once. We have not got into our tents yet, but sleep in barracks. We have to drill about 7 hours in a day. The cannon fires at 5 o’clock in the morning when all the soldiers have to get up. The roll is called in a half an hour, then we drill till breakfast, then we are marched into a large building, large enough to hold two Regiments. The cannon fires again at 9 o’clock then the roll is called, and then we go to bed. There was a prayer-meeting in our camp last evening. There was a man in one of the other companies of the 12th Reg. that went up town today and got poisoned, he went into secession grocery and drank a glass of beer, and it was supposed to be poisoned this evening he was not expected to live, but has since got better. But I believe that have wrote everything of interest so I will stop. This from your son
Homer Levings.
[Part of a missing letter dated Nov. 7, 1861]
P. S.
I have just received a letter form Grandmother and Uncle Charles, placed in my hands by a man named Boylan, direct form Princeton which is only a days journey from here. They are all well and want to hear form you much. Uncle Edwin is in Camp, at Racine, Homer at Washington and Charles, Edwigloy, in Milwaukee as drummer. There are a good many boys in the 11th from Princeton to whom Charles directs me and I shall see them. They want us to come and see them and I think we shall. Can take the cars, go to Ripon where they will meet us, which place is 15 miles form Princeton. Direct your letters as follows:
Company A, 12th Regt,
Camp Randall
Madison Wisconsin.
Homer wrote you the other day, is well
Edwin.
Camp Randall, Madison Nov 16th 1861
Dear Father and Mother.
We have written you three letters already and have received an answer to
the first only, and you may be assured that its arrival was hailed in good
earnest, but we were disappointed in getting so little news. You said you
enclosed a letter from the girls, you did not send it, but sent an old
letter of Grandmother’s that we had read long ago. Quite a joke. Your stated
you had received one from Uncle Israel. Should be glad to get it.
Nov 17th. - I have to write when I can, for the time of the soldier for
writing is fragmentary and then, oftentimes, there is noise to distract
his thoughts. I am sorry Mr. Myers and Mother have left you, but I trust
that our Heavenly Father’s ways with us, though often grievous and past
finding our, are appointed in wisdom and goodness.
We are in first rate health - never had better - I have gained 3 lbs.,
while others have gained 8 or 10. There are above 2000 soldiers in camp
and I made some inquires relative to the daily consumption of different
articles of food. The results of which I will give you; namely, bread,
4000 lbs., beef, 2800 lbs., pork 3 bbs, potatoes, 30 bushels, Molasses
44 gals, butter 450 lbs., dried apples, 3 bbs. Beans 10 bushels, hot coffee,
640 gals or 2 pts. to a man. Have water for dinner. Your must remember
this is what is eaten, when we have these articles. For breakfast, one
day, we have beef and gravy, bread, butter, coffee, potatoes, hash. For
dinner, in place of hash, soup. For supper, molasses, no potatoes nor hash.
Next day have a change. We have received each a dress coat and a pair of
blue pants and get our caps and overcoats today or tomorrow. The over coats
are same color as paints and have a cape to them. They look much like swaddling
clothes, coming down below the knees. Shall get our pictures taken soon
and send them to you. We have been into the city 3 times. It is a fine
place. North of the camp are the University buildings which are very large
and splendid. The capitol building is in the heart of the city and is only
partly finished. The stones of which it is built are very large and it
exceeds in grandeur and splendor anything which I have ever seen. The ceilings
are frescoed. We passed all over it and had a chance to view the scenery.
North East is a small lake upon the opposite shore of which is a large,
fine building. I don’t know what it is. South East is another, spanned
by rail road bridge. Attended preaching today at the Cour. House. There
is a great deal of Sabbath desecration in camp. Here and there may be seen
groups of soldiers swearing, joking, playing ball, &c, but I am glad
to able to say that the Sabbath is better respected in our company. Sabbath
after noon there is a dress parade, in the evening is company prayer meeting.
Dear Mother, I really wish you would write, - write about anything, what
you are doing, &c. Father write often - remember we want to hear from
you often. I do not know where we shall go or when we shall leave. Gov.
Randall has returned form Washington with money enough to pay the soldiers.
The 11th will leave soon now.
Give our respects to the neighbors and write soon. Shall get a furlough
of 3 days and go and see Grandmother soon.
Ever you affectionate boy.
Edwin.
[Part of a missing letter dated Dec. 14, 1861]
.... time would fail me to enumerate. I would not have missed the opportunity for any consideration, seemingly.
If I can get the paper containing the Gov.'s address to the soldiers. I
will send it along. I should be glad to have you say something on the war
question, - express your opinions as to what the present state of our national
affaires and transpiring events indicate or seem to indicate. As for myself,
I feel very much encouraged at our prospects, since the President’s message
and Sec. Cameron’s report, and I can not but believe our prospects will
brighten and be realized in the triumph of the Union cause and the crushing
our to Rebellion. A telegraphic dispatch has come today stating that England
has demanded the release of Mason and Slidell; and that France has pitched
into one of our vessels and tried to capture it, but without success; and
that the two powers were making proposals to each other to disregard the
Federal Flag longer and go into the U. S. A., scoop us out and divide the
spoils. It is not credited here yet. Still, I believed that if there is
a nation on Earth that will be treacherous to our cause, England is that
nation.
Well, I must close and let Homer write. You may expect to hear from us
again in 2 or 3 days. Don't be anxious about us. Dale is getting better,
both well as usual. Write soon. Letters will be forwarded to us after we
leave, if any come here.
Yours in deepest affection
Edwin
Camp Randall
Madison Dec 25th 1861
Dear Parents:
It is Christmas and I will write you a Christmas letter. I wish you a happy
Christmas, indeed, if it is not to late. I lay thinking of your some time
this morning, and wondering what sort of a Christmas today would be to
you. Not a lonely one I hope. I have no bad news to tell you and we all
have reason to be grateful to that Providence that has watched over us
thus far, giving to us health, comfort and every needed blessing and assuring
us that if we follow Him all will be well. His ways though often dark and
mysterious, we are informed, are ways of Wisdom and of Goodness. A better
day will come by - and - by, light will break through the clouds and I
hope our family will be reunited. The Capt. and boys naturally greeted
each other with a happy Christmas at roll-call this morning, the Capt.
expressing the hop that ere long the flog of our Union would float over
Sumter and that we all might spend the next Christmas in the homes we have
left.
We received the other day your letter of Dec 14th and yesterday the Rural.
I am glad you have sold the shade place for so good a price.
The measles are at work in the Camp, requiring additional accommodations
for the sick. Two buildings are used as Hospitals, to one of which an addition
has recently been made. I was at work some yesterday putting up a large
Hospital tent.
Have you received our pictures, and the box of clothing directed to the
care of J. W. Pratt?
We have at last got our guns and if they are as good as their appearance
indicates they will do good execution. They are the Belgian Rifle. We are
to receive yet our canteens and pay. The boys are impatient for the latter,
as they have but little money, not a cent. We happen to be exceptions,
having enough for our wants.
Dec 26th Unfortunately, I was unable to finish this yesterday, having guard
duty to perform. It is the practice here to give the guard at 12 o’clock
at night a luncheon at the guard house. Last night I had coffee, hot, cold
meat and a pond of bread. That will do, won’t it? What, did you eat it
all? Not quite. I served some of it such as Lute Taylor did the doughnuts.
I did not wrestle it down, though,
Those sick with the measles are said to be dong well. Many of our company
are sick with cold, settled on the lunge, sore-throats, headaches, ear-aches,
&c. Per cent of sickness today in our company is not less than 20 percent.
A man of Company D. died this morning of inflammation of the lungs. I could
have had a position in the Hospital as nurse, had I wanted. I would rather
to be with Homer, besides I do not care about giving Allopathic prescriptions
to any body, unless it be to the doctors themselves. We are the only ones
in our tent of 19 who have not been barking away with colds. I am content
with - Noemaophatly to cure human ailments.
My gun weights 11 lbs. Received a letter form grandmother this morning,
when and I will send along. I have considerable leisure time and wish to
improve it. Will you ask Mr. Wilcox to let me have his Zumpter Latin Dictionary
and he use mine and I will be much obliged. Sent it right away, the postage
will be about 20cts, which I will return to you.
Dale has a Virgil. Don’t know when or where we shall go. Think we shall
go last, next week. Remember us to Mr. Shepherd’s folks and all inquiring.
Write soon. Send letters to. Ill send tomorrow with pictures.
Yours most affectionately.
Edwin.
Camp Randall
Madison Dec 29th 1861
My Dear Parents:
I write you often as you see, and I hope you receive all my letters. The
memory and the love of you is ear to me and I shall ever hold the “pen
of a ready writer”. I can always find enough to write about. We average
per week three letters and they cost us 5 cnts each and maintaining for
a year the practice would cost us the snug some of $7.50. But writing is
always a paying investment.
I attended church this forenoon at the Congregational House. Soldiers are
received into the churches with as much respect as at the churches at home.
And if is a great relief as well as pleasure to me to be thus privileged.
This may be the last time I shall have to enter the House of God. My thoughts
have frequently run back to you during the day, have follow you to the
Sanctuary, home again and about the house. Shall we ever meet again in
our dear home? O if we never do, may we meet in Heaven about never to part
again, where there is no sorrow and where there is no war with its wide
desolations. I come and all its associates and the parting scene are stereotyped
upon my soul. You are lonely indeed. Mother do not let those chamber rooms
get lonesome - visit them often and give them a cheerful appearance. Do
not think I wish I had not volunteered. No I do not regret the step in
the least. It will worthy to be taken by any one. It would be a hard heart
that did not cling to home and dear friends. Yes, I believe, that where
the grace of God does not abound, frequent thoughts of home and hose we
love, restrain often times form way of Sin. Blessed I that soldier who
has the love, the sympathies, the influence, the prayers of friends, following
him and cheering him as he goes forth to meet the foe, and if he be armed
with the spiritual armor, Satan can not injure him morally. Wicked men
may destroy his body, but they can not destroy his soul.
December 31st.
Received this morning your letter in which your mentioning the receipt
of our daguerreotypes and clothes. Your speak of healthfulness of Kansas
and of Mothers willingness to go there after the termination of the war
if we would prefer remaining there. I think I have seen no beauty in the
State better or more beautiful than Pierce Co. I do not think if your duty
to go to Ware if England should attack us. Two sons are enough. We have
purchased us each a pair of new kip boots for muddy, stormy weather. They
are tip-top, costing $4.00 a pair. The pay comes out of our U. S. pay.
Upwards of 40 others have done the same.
Had a grand review yesterday afternoon. Gen’l Stevens and Staff attended
by the Governor, reviewed the Regt. which had on knapsacks h, haversacks
and was armed with guns and accoutrements. Company A, which your must know
has the position of honor, received, for the first time, the Colors at
the Col,s Office and escorted them to the center company, C., the Band
in from playing. The Regt. was them drawn up in a hollow square, when the
Gov.
[The rest of the letter is missing.]
Gap - Will install
soon
Natchez, Miss, Jan. 7th, 1864
Ever Dear Parents.
We have had no letter from you for a week and are quite anxious to hear
from you. I hardly know how to express on paper what I want to say
to you and wish I could see you, though but for one hour. This letter,
I expect, will excite in you some regret, particularly, if you are in receipt
of our late letters; but I hope it will produce as much pleasure, and that
before you finish reading it, you will be able to say - well and good.
Now to the subject. We have both re-enlisted as Veterans. We
had had no such intention, as we before told you; but after a careful reconsideration
of the matter, in which we were not influenced by excitement, we concluded
it was better for us and yourselves and our Country to reenter the service
and stay till this rebellion was crushed. We should have gladly consulted
with you about it, could we have done so. You are disappointed, I
know we will know that you had long hoped for and expected. You had
fondly thought that at the expiration of our 3 years we were coming home
to stay; You had counted the months; You had thought of nice plans, and
much happiness we would all have when again reunited. We knew it
all better than I can write it. We had reckoned on it with as much
pleasure as you had; and when reflecting whether to reenlist all these
enjoyments came up before our minds and we hated to leave you and them
again for life in the army. We would rather have served out our time
and quick but duty to the Country seemed to require our services longer.
It was a great sacrifice for us to give up home, friends, privileges again
and it is a great sacrifice for you, but I ask you with all the affection
of my heart, is the sacrifice too great. I know you will say, it
is not our Country is worth all it costs. We had but 10 months more
to serve and did not like to desert the field when so many were going to
remain and when the rebellion is so near ended. Many have one into
the Veteran service and have made greater sacrifices. Should we hang
back, well, healthy, and young as we are, our relating so favorable?
Were we at home next winter we should have to stand the draft. If
the war was not ended we should be uneasy and want to be in the army.
I can not see how the rebellion can last 2 years longer. Have we
not every reason to be encouraged and to continue the struggle? Do
not facts go to show that this rebellion can not survive that length of
time? When the government is doing its utmost to crush it and calls
for our help for a few months longer, ought we to disregard that voice?
It has never deceived us, and the prospect is brighter than ever and points
to a sure and speedy success. Let us review the progress we have
made. 2 years ago the rebel armies had full swing in Mo. the invasion
of Ky. had not been made. In 4 months we had driven them from these
states. Through middle and western Tenn. and occupied their strongholds.
We confidently thought the war could not last 18 months. We found
out our mistake. We can not miscalculate now. We know their
strengths. Their means of warfare are nearly gone. Look at
the desperate straits they are in. See their dismay, their boasted
confederacy is crushed in on all sides. Their resources are fast
decreasing and how can they fight much longer. When their remaining territory
on which they depend for supplies is in our possession it is physically
impossible for them to fight. The fighting, I think, must be over
before the close of 1864. Gen. Grant is getting his supplies into
Chattanooga, and when all is ready, the final move in that direction will
be made and under the terrible blows there inflicted, and elsewhere down
will go this wicked rebellion and haughty confederacy.
Now this reorganization of the armies is going to prove a great victory
over the rebels. They are endeavoring to reap consolation from this
fact; viz. that the time of most of our troops would expire next spring.
They expect to put old, discipline troops against new. They think
we would rather go home than fight them longer; but we are going to come
the Yankee on them. When they see that they have got to fight the old troops
they will turn in despair.
By reenlisting now we gain
10 months on the 3 years. We get the $402.00 bounty in addition to
our monthly wages, which are likely to be increased, an effort to that
effect now being made by congress; also, the old bounty, $100. An
order from McPherson has come stating the paymaster is to pay us in a few
days. I forgot to say we receive pay for all the clothing we have
not drawn on the first two months of the 3rd year of first enlistment
When paid we shall get the old bounty $100, $60. Of the new, a premium
of $2.00, one month’s pay $13.00 and two months pay due us on first enlistments,
$26.00 which adds up to $201.00 and $402.00 for both of us. If we
both serve 2 years only we would receive during that time $1,428.00.
If the pay of soldiers is raised it would be more. Besides we are
coming home soon. Start for Wis. in 10 or 12 days at most - are to
be absent 4 months, unless emergencies require our return sooner, and are
to have 60 days furlough - a fact - from Madison. Now have we done
wisely or not? Jan 8th - Yours of Dec. 21 is fresh received in which
you refer to the Capt.s visit. Well you can pay your taxes now and
not feel it. Glad to help you in any way we can. Now, we are
coming home, so look out the window about the 15 this month for two Veteran
volunteers. Write soon and direct Co. A, 12th Wis. Veteran Volunteers.
via Cairo. Yours with love,
Edwin.
Dale, Jack, Sibly and Williams did not reenlist.
Natchez, Miss, Jan 7th, 1864
Dear Parents,
We have had no letters from you for some time, we have been very anxious
to hear from you, but there has not been much mail with in the past week.
I do not know however as I could reasonably expect any letters as I have
not written to you very lately. I presume you are waiting anxious
to hear from us, as you have, no doubt heard of the late call, made by
the government for Veteran Soldiers and you are probably anxious to know
if your boys have reenlisted, and take and I take this opportunity to relieve
your suspense. We both enlisted the 5th of this month but not till
we had thought of it long enough to satisfy us that it was our duty to
see Uncle Sam safe out of this scrape. We would like to have heard
from you before enlisting and we waited till within about two hours before
the recruiting stopped. It was certainly a sacrifice for us to enlist
again and I presume it is on your part, but I do not believe that you will
think it too great a sacrifice to make for our country. Gen. Gresham
made a speech to us on the evening of the 5th inst. he promised us that
the regt. would stay at least four months in the state, and that we should
have at least 60 days furlough in the state. There are 518 men enlisted
in the veteran service in the 12th R.W.V. There are 46 in our company,
there are only 12 men left in the Company they will be transferred to some
other regiment. I think the regt. will start in a few days for Wisconsin.
I would hate to be left here when the regt. leaves, for those that stay
here will be consolidated into companies, and regiments, to serve out their
time when they get home they will have to stand the draft besides a soldier
can not be contented to stay at home while the war lasts, so I think we
might as well get the $401.00 bounty, and we gain 10 months in three years,
and the probability is that we will not have to serve three years.
I suppose you have plenty of cold weather and snow. The weather down
here, the citizens say is colder than it has been for a good many years.
I hope there will be snow enough for us to have a good sleigh ride.
I have about run out of items so I shall have to close my letter.
Father, you must feed the horse a plenty of oats and get the cutter in
running order, if you have any chickens, you had better kill them before
the soldiers come up there or you may loose them.
Jan 8th
Ed has had to stop writing and go help the Lieut. and orderly make out
the muster rolls. I expect we shall start for Madison in a few days.
I shall have to stop writing, give my respects to every body.
Yours affectionately,
Homer
Natchez Miss. Jan. 15th, 1864
Ever Dear Parents,
Since the receipt and answer of your last letter, Dec. 21st, two more,
of earlier dates, have come to hand, which had been delayed somewhere.
They are those of Nov. 16th and Dec. 13th, respectively, in which you speak
of your purchase of a sewing machine and the satisfaction it gives you.
We were glad to get them; and having nothing to do but read and write,
I will do the latter. You ask if we write you every week. We
do, unless circumstances prevent. Sometimes, when your letters come
slowly, we extend the period of writing a few days to hear from you.
Knowing your uneasiness, however, if at the regular time no letter comes,
it is our practice, generally to write you every week. We hope to
hear from you by next mail. We are looking for Hattie’s letter, too,
with much interest. I presume that before this reaches you will have
received our last letter. I think it likely, Mother, you have done
some crying over that letter. On your account I hated to write it,
but I am sure your judgement will approve our course. Homer wrote
the muster out rolls were being made out, preparatory to mustering in.
By orders from Washington that business was stopped. The reason of
which I am ignorant. I suppose some change in the papers is contemplated.
When they come we shall proceed to the business again. I can not
say now how soon we shall start for Wisconsin. Many would prefer
going home two months from now; but for my own part, I would rather go
now, if it is cold up there. We could visit with more advantage and
enjoyment I think than in the spring.
I learn from the Chicago Tribune of the 1st that a terrible snowstorm has
visited the whole north. R.R. trains blockaded - 3 feet of snow at
St. Paul - very cold, disagreeable weather. Let me describe the weather
here at that time. The 28th, 29th-30th Dec. it rained hard unexpectectly.
The 31st it cleared off with a slight flurry of snow and grew colder than
it has been here for 30 years. Then cam more rain. Every body
complained and shivered - the citizens said the cold was due to the presence
of so many Yankees. New Orleans did not like it any better.
I have not experienced as cold weather since we left Kansas. Talk
about the sunny South give me Wisconsin yet.
Our Washington news is
that the swindling Department (I mean the Quartermaster and Company) at
Alexandria are being cleaned out - certain chaps who have been fattening
like so many leeches on Uncle Sam are being rather forcibly jerked up.
I hope investigations into those Departments will be made here, for there
is certainly a large amount of stealing going on. Natchez is all
quiet at present. We see much, however, that ought not to be allowed.
The secesh are allowed privileges that ought to be denied them and I am
confident that some officers are too much influenced by their smooth-tongued
lingoes; but now and then, an old reprobate is snapped up and punished.
I must tell you of the fix the Methodist minister found himself in the
other night. His name is Watkns, and he lives near our camp.
My tent-mate, Jones, was in the habit of visiting his daughter, and had
so worked himself into the confidence of the entire family that they regarded
him as a friend. Naturally enough their rebel proclivities began
to take a practical shape in avowals of sympathy with the confederate cause
and in requests of him to purchase revolvers, cartridges, soldiers pants
and c for them. Watkins has a son out here with the rebels and for
him, he wanted the articles. Jones, penetrating their design and
wishing to entrap them, particularly the old man consented to the proposals.
We acquainted the Provost Marshall of his purpose, who told him to go ahead;
and the other night Jones, the Provost and 7 guards went to his house,
arrested him and two other men who belong to the rebel army. Watkins
was old, told Jones he was never so deceived in a man in his life, and
is now under $10,000 bail.
I hope you did not vote to screen drafted men from the draft. I had
not dreamed River Falls would commit suicides. It was already overburdened
with taxes and how it hopes to extricate itself after the foolish addition
you refer to, I can not see. Can the town spare the volunteers better
than the drafted men and can it afford to pay out money in that way.
Either the financial affairs of the place have improved much of late or
else it has entrusted itself to the guidance of the blind. Certainly
under the stimulus of big bounties men ought to volunteer, but, to tell
you how the soldiers feel about it, if the people are foolish enough to
favor such a policy, let them pay and the whole of it. The idea of
the soldiers having to share in there taxes is ridiculous. But if
the people will fiddle themselves, let them pay for the music and as the
soldiers say, for the whole of it.
The rebels are feeling badly now over their finances - they see they can
not carry on the war much longer without money and anticipate in the event
of failure to redeem their currency, “the horrors of a guerrilla warfar”
as well. They have arrived at that point where a forced loan is a
necessity. They shrink at the fact but are endeavoring to brace themselves
for the crises - say “the promise to pay” must be redeemed, no matter who
loses or gains by the change. The effect of such a loan will be bad
for them, but if adopted will work well. I think for us. While
defeat and disaster crown upon their armies, their cause grows rapidly
unpopular with their own people, and most assuredly will all forcing schemes
resorted to stop if necessary. The time is not far distant when the
people of the South will rise up and help put this trouble down.
The Radical Government has worked well thus far in Del, Md, Vir, Mo, and
will in the other states after a while. The President’s Amnesty Proclamation
is in many places favorably regarded. Every thing goes to show that
the end is near. Of course the rebel leaders talk big but that is
a game they are obliged to play to suit circumstances, but they do occasionally
snake some glaring confessions that must and are opening eyes of the people
to the doom that awaits them. For instance, here is one from the
Richmond Whig - “Slavery has stabbed itself to death. It has sinned
against the light, committed the unpardonable sin and must die.”
Will the Southern people want any better warning, coming as it does from
one of their leading organizations. I hope to see nothing left than
the extinction of slavery and this damnable aristocracy. I have no
fears otherwise. The year, 1864, I believe, will witness the end
of fighting. The President has the power to end it, and it seems
to me he will try as hard as he can to do it before he goes out of the
Chair. He is gaining friends in the army and abroad. Foreign
nations are beginning to see he is a great statesman and are now willing
to let us alone. I hope he will be the next President. My sheets
are full and I will conclude. Write soon all of you and often.
Yours affectionately,
Edwin Levings
Co. A. 12th Wis. Vol.
Camp at Clear Creek
Miss., Jan. 26th, 1864
Dear Parents.
You will be surprised to learn we are back at our old camp at Clear Creek in rear of Vicksburg. We were ordered up here the 22nd - left Natchez the day following, reached Vicksburg at sunset next day and yesterday came out here. We received yours of the 28th at Natchez and also those of Cousins Lottie and Hattie, which we will answer in a few days. I have not time just now to write as I would like and you must excuse a poor letter this time. I will tell you what is about to be done. McPherson is going to make a big raid out beyond Jackson and we expect to go along too. It will doubtless be the most extensive raid of the war and if successful, will damage the rebels in no small degree. Perhaps it will be preliminary to some more important movement elsewhere. There are many stories in circulation as to what is intended, but as the Gent’s keep the matter secret, we are left to our own speculating at present. From what I can learn, I think we shall strike at Jackson and penetrate to Meridian 90 or 100 miles east of the former place, where there are large manufactories and destroying all in our course, plundering the rebels as much as we choose. So much you may reckon as probable. Now for a little speculation and for some stories that are afloat. Some assert the Big Black River bridge is to be rebuilt, that the R.R. is to be repaired as far as Jackson and that the Military Governor whoever he is is to take his seat at that place. Another rumor is troops are coming down the Mobile and Ohio R.R. from Corinth on a mission similar to our own, perhaps joining us at Meridian. Possibly our movement is for the purpose of recalling the scattered forces of rebels going to reinforce Johnson's army, or preliminary to an attack on Mobile, as it will destroy all supplies and rolling stock on the Miss road. A lot of pontoons have been improved of construction at Vicksburg and were to be done today. The report is 10 or so thousand of Hurlbut’s troops arrived at Chickasaw Bayou yesterday and are to constitute a part of the expedition. Yazoo City I understand will receive attention too. The expedition will probably consist of 25 to 30,000 troops. The rebels in Miss. are estimated at not more than 15,000. We shall have some fighting, perhaps, and a good time, probably - shall be gone. Perhaps 30 or 40 days, perhaps less. We shall start about the 1st next month. So we veteran chaps will not get home as soon as expected, but after this raid is over, the Gen. says we can be spared to go home. Fully 3/4 of the entire Corps are Veterans. We are to be mustered before this march, but not to be paid till after our return. I understand the Veterans are to be credited to the counties they are from and are to receive the $100 bounty of those counties. Very well. If you want to give us $100 all right. You’ll not loss anything if your taxes are higher. Now if you don’t get any letters for a month or so, if you get not any, remember we are not in circumstances perhaps, at that time so write, but if opportunity occur, we shall surely write. I will write again before we leave. The weather is superb - warm and pleasant enough. Write us often. Direct to Vicksburg, Co. A. 12th Wis. Vol. 3rd B. 4 Div. via Cairo to Vicksburg. Our love and best wishes to you all.
Edwin D. Levings.
We are both in excellent health
as we always are.
Camp at Clear Creek, Miss.
March 3rd, 1864
Dear Parents,
It is with pleasure that I seat myself again to answer your most welcome
letters, for it has been just a month today since I have had the pleasure
of perusing your letters or answering them. You of course are aware
of the raid that has been made into Miss, by General Sherman, and of course
you want to know all about it. So I will try and give you an account
of it so that you may get some idea of its magnitude and probability it
would be interesting to you to have an account of our marches also, so
I will give you the whole thing as near as I can. On the third day
of February the 11th Army Corps, left Vicksburg and vicinity followed by
the 16th A. C. under Gen. Hurlbut for Maridian, Miss. We started
from her with twenty days rations on our regimental train and 40 more on
the Corps train. We crossed Black River the first day (where we recd
a letter from you dated Jan. 17th) and marched to Edward Station a distance
of 10 miles with out meeting with any resistance from the enemy, the next
day we went on to Champion Hill where the skirmishing commenced.
The 2nd brigade of the 4th division marched in advance and the 3rd brigade
followed our regt in advance of the brigade. The rebs made a stand
near Champion Hill but it did not amount to much for they soon skedaddled.
The first rebel I see lay in a field with a ball in his back, so he of
course did not scare me much. I see the Doctors take it out of him,
I thought they used him pretty rough. I do not think he ever got
well, but enough of this. We marched on to Bakers Creek where they
made another stand, and the 2nd brigade being tired out, the 3rd was sent
forward, here the rebs used their artillery for the first time. Our
regt relieved the 15th Ill, who were skirmishing with them. The right
wing was deployed out on the right of the road and the left wing on the
left, there were three men killed here out of Co. I by a cannon shot.
We drove them from here about three miles, where they crossed a creek and
tried to tear up a bridge but our right drove them away so they did not
do much damage, and they repaired it midst the enemies fire. We held
the bridge all night they tired to shell us from a hill where there battery
was planted but they could not reach us and their shells did not burst.
Our company took a Lieut. and three men prisoner. The next day the
3rd Division crossed the bridge under the fire of the enemies guns.
The 68th and 32nd Ohio suffered the most. The fight only lasted about
a half an hour loss 17 killed and wounded, rebel loss 36.
That day we marched 12 or 14 miles and camped 5 or 6 miles beyond Clinton.
The 3rd division had quite a skirmish at Clinton, at Jackson we captured
a cannon, at the same time 16th A. C. were on another road skirmishing
with the rebels. The next day we went into Jackson, when we laid
all day. Gen. Hurlbutt made a speech to us in front. McPherson
Headquarters he was drunk as usual. We crossed Pearl River that night
and camped, the town was pretty well burned. The rebels had the railroad
in running to Jackson and had got out timbers to build a bridge across
Pearl River. We marched the next day to Brandon, distance 12 miles,
there we commenced tearing up the railroad. On the 8th we left Brandon,
and marched 17 miles, the cavalry had a skirmish two rebels killed and
a woman who was watching the fight. The rebels formed their line
of battle right in front of her house, and she was standing in the door
watching them, when a bullet struck her in the neck, and she was instantly
killed. The 9th we marched 5 miles and camped at Morton, to let the
16th A. C. pass us. Here I had a chance to see some eastern troops
who were the first that I ever see, they were the 17th NY, and the 35th
N. Jerz and the 17th N.G. The 25th and 32nd Wis. were also along
the way and were a hard looking set of men a good many of the 17th N.Y
formerly belonged to Billy Wilson’s regt, 10th. We marched through
a
small town called Willsborough. It was most all burnt, our regt was
train guard. 12th we camped at Decatur, the rebs fired at our train
here and killed several mules, we burnt the town to pay them for it.
The rebs fired into some of our boys that were foraging. One man
from Co I was shot in the face, one of Co I was shot twice and he played
at dead on them and got away, they thought they had killed him and left
him. The 14th we left camp on a small stream called Little Chunk,
for Maridian on 3/5 rations, for 5 days in our haversacks, taking only
2 teams to a regt, the rebs fell trees in the road which impeded our progress
somewhat. We camped about 5 miles out of town, and started in the
next morning, when it began to rain and rained most all day we got into
some store houses and stayed over night. At Maridian was Gen. Popes
Head Quarters and by coming we destroyed all their railroad communications.
The 4th Division left the Corps here and went to Enterprise to destroy
the railroad. The business part of the town was all burnt.
The 3rd Brigade was sent the next day to Chithman (distance 14 miles) to
burn a R.R. bridge it was guarded by a rebel regt. which we easily drove
away the bridge was a nice covered bridge over a hundred feet long, we
also burnt 300 feet of trussle work and marched back part way to Enterprise
and camped. We burnt another bridge the next morning and another
piece of trussle work and went in to town, and stayed over night and started
back for Maridian to join our corps and return home. We left Maridian
on our right and saved 5 or 6 miles. On the 20th we started about 8 o’clock,
marched 13 miles and camped a mile from where we left the train but they
had gone to Decatur. We overtook our train near Willsborough.
I was taken sick with the ague was sick about a week. The troops
crossed Pearl River the 26th. They 27th most all of the train in
the corps was started back for camp and another train was sent out with
rations. The Doctor examined the convalescents and sent the worst
ones into camp with the train, I was sent along with them. We left
them 10 miles east of Canton, we went to Canton the first night.
The 17th A. C. captured 3 new engines that the rebs had run out of the
town but could not get them away, they also got 22 more locomotives that
were being repaired. March 4th I have written nearly every thing
that is of interest and I will not write much more. The regt I understand
will be here this afternoon they are at Edward Station so I will not mail
this till Ed gets in.
Homer
My Dear parents,
The great raid is over and I am safely back in camp. I have laid down my
gun and am now endeavoring to write you a much desired letter. Homer has
given you a pretty good account of what transpired and I shall not enter
into details much now. I find but one letter here from you. What of January
28th in which you mentioned Mr. Wilson loss of his stone. We have to lectures
also, from tying might and Cousin Emma and Louisa. I shall fill out the
notes I made of the daily occurrences of a warm March for preservation
so you can have them for personal when I get home. We've returned yesterday,
finding the new recruits and some butter from you brought by George Niles.
We thank you much and him to and he shall share with us but am sorry to
tell if you the rush had worked sole insuring the butter soon was too long
coming to keep well and you would not have wanted it had to you thought
George would not get to us so when then he did, but it is a welcome as
if in prime condition and answers well enough. But what little pail. I
remember it well. I used to carry my dinner in its two school and older
Madison. I also wreck collect a little incident of its history and I feel
somewhat ashamed of it. So you're a collect how that big dent was made
in yet? How you sent over back after the pale because he kicked it and
neither of cost would carry it? I was to blame. Who would have thought
that pale, after nine long years, would appear to reap are you need for
my I'm kindly act to my brother. Godfrey give me and may my other stands
not rest up likewise to condemn me. We both had a hearty laugh over the
pale, but I could not but remember the incident.
But to the news. We have made a long hard march and given the rebels a
terrible bolt. We have marched nearly 400 miles, traveling every date for
30 days, driven the rebels at every point. Cut their communications, destroyed
an immense amount of C. S., property taken, many prisoners, the lost but
few man. Have been to Jackson, Brandon, Morton, Hillsboro, Decatur, Meridian,
enterprise.
Canton, March 15, 1864
Brother Daniel,
I trust you will allow me, in part at least, to reply to your letter which
I received last Friday a.m.
Notwithstanding it being
directed to my husband I took the liberty to open and read he being still
in the army, if he does not come tonight, or I hear anything from him in
the morning, I shall forward it to him in the a.m. I have looked
and looked until I am weary with looking and now don’t know when to expect
him.
Lottie and myself are now alone, Fred having gone into a store as clerk.
People tell me he is with very fine men and where he will learn his business
honestly and thoroughly. I went in to see him this eve. as he is
not allowed to come home except on the Sabbath. I wished him to go
to school another term but he seemed to think in order to be a man he must
be earning something. He is now a boy sixteen but no one supposes
him to be so old.
You wished to know Mr. Levings plans these of course I cannot give you
as I know not myself what they are. By the bay, I hardly think he
knows himself as for his going to Idaho is concerned I think that must
be in joke as it would take all he is worth to get there. They are
now selling tickets from here there as within about fifty miles.
I think for $150.00. Then we, his family would have to be left with
nothing.
It seems he has written you something in regard to my coming there to teach
or something of like effect. Now I had supposed when I was married
my teaching public school was at an end. He may have misunderstood
me, however and thought I wished to go west to teach from this fact.
I have a couple of brothers in Iowa, Co. Wis., one of whom was home on
a visit this last Jan. He urged me quite hard to return with him
and so spend most of the summer. I replied I would not go while Fr.
was school but as soon as he went into the store I would go providing I
could have the school and board at his house. I felt I would not
like to be idly living upon my friends, however much they might wish it.
He told me I could have the school. I then sat down, wrote Mr. Le-
I was going west, the last of March or first of Apr. and be there in case
he remained in the army. Now he might have thought I was anxious
to teach but I do not wish it at all - were we able I could visit my friends
and relatives at Chicago then my brothers after which my husbands friends
if they would like and then return after a suitable time but as I knew
we were not able I supposed teaching a term as a matter of necessity, if
I would ever visit any part of the west and not of choice and then only
the school in whose Dist. my brothers are. I do not know what,
prospects he may have n view but certainly I have no thoughts of going
west to teach for a living. I expect my husband will give me that
as long as he has his health and strength. I am not one of the strong
minded business women.
I was so glad to hear you say “Don’t take the old place” I think it a great
piece of folly for him to ever think of going back to Madrid to live.
I should think he had tried it long enough. I am sure I have and
the time I have spent there has not been one quarter his but I have suffered
enough quite in that time without going over with it again and furthermore
there are no advantages for the children whatever. I tell him North
or South. East or West my where ever we can get a comfortable living
and at the same time secure those advantages which the children need, but
to go back to Madrid where I am convinced it is no place for us - were
it not out of character I would say I will not go back though perhaps this
would be hardly necessary as he has written me often he will not oblige
me to go back against my wishes. Still at the same time he knows
I always try to have his wishes my wishes and very likely if he insisted
upon going I should say go if you think best. I wrote one of the
girls about the place last Sept. but have never recd an answer, whether
it failed to reach them or what the cause may be I can hardly imagine.
Brother Isreal gave me Ermas address and it was she to whom I wrote.
I told her then I could pay for it nearly “be” if they wished to let it
go upon the same conditions and same price her father would let us have
it for $200. It seems to be the dearest place on earth to the Levings.
He's thinking he has improved it much. People tell me more than $100,
and he says he wants to make more and then enjoy it all, but I think it
is a poor place to be at in for him. And furthermore I think if the
girls do not sell it they might not be giving their part of the rent for
the mother’s support. Their father certainly attests the part of
a dutiful son while he lived now he is gone. Mother’s support should
dissolve upon the remaining children not upon them. Mrs. Hallack
says she things Myron ought to have it. This is the way I look at
it. I think it is better for mothers to live with their daughters
instead of daughters-in-law. Now don’t think I am saying this to
complain for I am not. I think we get along very well indeed, she
sometimes thinks me a little extravagant, but I tell her times have changed
since she was a girl and I verily believe she enjoys her home better with
us than at Mrs. H. Now I want Mr. Lenot, not only consider it his
duty but a pleasure to help take care of his mother. I think this
should be the feeling of every child, but I don’t want he should do the
whole and the half of that. [?] is but a small portion toward it
- I think. But then I suppose it is not my business to dictate so
I will stop.
I hardly know what will be news to you should I attempt to write any but
this much. Mother is now at Mr. Burmett’s. Went there a week
ago today, stopped here a while, she is looking really well - Louisa and
the two boys went for her. I am looking for Mr. and Mrs. Burnett
to make me a visit this week. Israel is still at Highgate, VI - Perhaps
you hear from him often. Mrs. Hallack has two more grandchildren,
Sarah and Mary have each a son about seven weeks old. Mary’s and
Laura six I think - almost twins. Perhaps I had better say for your
encouragement. Mother thinks I am not quite as smart as your wife,
she always held her up as my model and I have pointed Freddie to your sons.
I think they are boys of such good principles so before I am not particular
when he goes but I do want to see him getting a good living and a little
more. When he went into the army he was as the saying is “worse off
than nothing,” should he live to return this week with his money all safe
perhaps he could say he was worth $200. I will try and be thankful
for that notwithstanding it is a very small ain’t for a man of his years.
But I am reminded of the remarks the king of Egypt made to island of Lamoz
- were t not that vague superstition governs the minutes of those ancient
kings. I should perhaps think there was something in store for us
on account of our previous failures. But I begin to feel I am wearying
you. I would inquire about Alphonse wife’s health then bid you good
bye sending much love to yourself, wife and other friends.
Oh by the by! I believe I can give you what you desired to know,
Mr. Le, is in the 3rd Div. 3rd Brigade and 3rd Crops under General Henrich.
I see you seem to think he may not get his discharge. I had not even
thought there was the least shadow of doubt but what he would get it in
time and of course it would have to be their time, he did not come last
night but may tonight or I shall expect a letter in the morning.
Yours be -
B.M. Levings
Your family have not been forgotten by us and I hope you, yourself, may recover your health and your sons live to return even better than when they went. When I last visited Mother she let me read a letter from Edwin. I think, which he wrote her just before the fall of Vicksburg. I read and thought those parents have indeed reason to feel proud of such sons. They seem to pride themselves in [?] true [?]. You say you have Alphonse youngest daughter. I had learned to love her father by reading his letters he has written oftener than any of the other brothers I think, you the next, while Dennison I believe has only written one. I think I have never read but one from him. I don’t even know how many children does he have? Do you think it would be better for Mr. Levings to come west as I said.
To know we are in Madison will surprise and gladden you, and I thought
I would drop a few lines to use this evening with that information. We
arrive this morning at 5 o'clock all safe in and find spirits; took breakfast
at the depot where everything that kind and thoughtful hearts could provide
was in waiting for us; then marched up to the old camp. Where we know are,
and comfortable and, dating Baruch's, enjoying ourselves as everybody and
everything around us would have us.
We left Vicksburg on the 13th inst. and came up to Cairo on the Constitutional.
There were aboard also the 11th and 15th Iowa Infantry and 2 Batteries
- and all above good man. Of course, we were crowded and the wind so cutting
that comfort and convenience were not to be found. But Uncle Sam could
do no better for this is as many boats were required for the Red River
Expedition of which you are doubtfully apprized. We got to Cairo at noon
of the 18th and lay their 24 hours for transportation. Arrived at Chicago
last evening at sunset and left at 10 o'clock. The loyal ladies of Chicago
had prepared a splendid supper for us at the Soldiers Rest and we were
also entertained with a speech and other demonstrations of greeting. I
have not time now to us say much about it, but it was a magnificent affair
to us soldiers and thankfully appreciated and thrilled us with pleasure
and did us good to think that we were once more in America. Long will the
loyal ladies of the Soldiers Home and of the city be great fully remembrance
by the 12th Wis. Infry.
The regiment was not paid at Vicksburg owing to the fact of there not being
money enough there. So we came up without a cent, we kept what, through
good luck, we chanced to get from friends which was sufficient. We are
now waiting to be paid, are being furlough. We receive the 2nd installment
of boundary will make our individual paid about $280. We shall start for
home in 3 or 10 days - as soon as paid. Whether Lake Peppin will be open
in time for us I don't now. The papers announced that the reception of
the 12th by Gov. Lewis will take place tomorrow. The 11th had just arrived,
and it may be postponed a day longer. We saw Uncle Erwin and Cousin Charlie
at Memphis and talked with them an hour or more; both are well and in good
spirits. Uncle gets $600 for enlisting and expects $300 more for furnishing
or filling the quota of his town from his own Battery. Their address is
1st Wis. Battery, Memphis Tenn. Well, I must go to bed. I'll write again
soon if we do not start for home shortly, so good night all.
Yours affectionately,
Edwin
Camp Randall Madison
April 27th, 1864
Bro. Homer,
I will improve the evening in writing to you for I do not know how else
to spend it.
We did not get away from Prescott till 3 o’clock Tuesday morning.
We came down on the “War Eagle” arriving at Prairie du Chien this morning
at 5 o’clock. Waited there till 9 for the cars and got into Madison
at 1 p.m. I took cabin passage which cost me $3.50 or $8.00 which
includes deck passage. I obtained no sleep Monday night till I got
on the boat and that was too much. I made it up yesterday.
Had a good time coming down but I thought of home and of you all as I shall
often. Mr. Pickard was one of the passengers. He is a great
hand to amuse children and I was much amazed myself to witness his performance
with them.
I took supper at Henry Stone’s house Monday and had a good visit.
Mr. Miller who preached at River Falls last Sabbath was there and I formed
his acquaintance - found him a very interesting man. I took along
the box sent to George Miles - left it at the depot with the Capt’s baggage.
The Capt.s left you transportation at his house. If you prefer you
can get cabin passage by paying $3.00 or $4.00. The Capt. said he
would try and get you transportation from Pr. du C. but I do not know whether
he did or not. Apply at the ticket office for it anyway for possibly
he made arrangements for you. I enclose you a ticket which the Capt.
gave me for you.
Had I known the Capt. would have left transportation behind I should not
have left home till today for we are not obliged to be here till Friday
night.
The 37th leaves here for Annapolis tomorrow. Ellsworth put on his
Captain uniform this morning - have not seen him yet. Justin Winchester
is coming down with the measles - guess he will not go with the regiment.
I hope you are getting
better and will join us in a great while, but stay till you are thoroughly
well and have a good visit; and if you are able, write to me, for I shall
be lonesome without you and letters will be a great treat, but I must stop.
Direct to Camp Randall as letters will follow if we are not here to get
them. Hoping you are all well tonight and with much love to you all.
I bid you good night.
Your affectionate brother,
Edwin
There is talk of our going away Saturday but the decision is Monday will be the day. I will write before starting and let you know where our destination is and send photos. Edwin.
Cairo, Ills, May 9th, 1864
My Dear Parents:
I would not write today did I know I should have another opportunity in
a few days. We expect to leave for up the Tenn. tonight, or tomorrow
morning and I fear if I defer writing this afternoon, I may keep you too
long waiting, so I will drop you a word now, and tell you where we are
going.
I understand that we are to proceed up the Tenn. to Clifton, 30 miles this
side of Pittsburg Landings: then are to march to Huntsville which will
require 5 or 6 days time. Probably we shall not get there in less
than 8 or 10 days. When Homer comes he will be sent, I think, via
Nashville and Decatur in the cars. So he will miss the march.
All our sick, or those unable to march, are to be sent by that route.
The distance by the route we shall take is about 325 miles. We would
much rather go than remain here longer. The impression seems to be
we shall not have much active service yet awhile. That we are to
protect the R.R. I do not know how that is. I want to see the
rebellion crushed with all possible energy and dispatch, and if my service
is needed on the battle field, I am perfectly willing to shoulder my rifle
and start - anything, if it will help to put down the rebellion.
I think I am beginning to be a pretty good soldier - I am willing to obey
orders from whatever military source, and my faith in a final glorious
triumph of our arms and cause has not abated one particle, nor has any
cheerfulness in the least given away to gloomings. It does not trouble
me who are my officers or who may be the next President, provided they
do not stand in the way of speedily crushing the rebellion. I have
an abiding confidence in the future, and let come what will, I mean to
let patience have her perfect work which will have been, of course, when
forbearance ceased to be a virtue. You may laugh if you want, but
that is the way I understand scripture. With regard to the next President
I am not decided yet, I am not certain but that a more energetic man than
Lincoln is now needed at the helm of State. Lincoln had done well,
but another man might do better, perhaps. Your ax may be a good one,
but mine may cut better. To keep off the breakers we must learn to
discern the face of the sky, and act accordingly. We must learn to
discern the signs of the times. There is a fearful amount of recklessness
and extravagance in the management of our political and military affairs,
and it becomes us to see whether we are tending to removing all evil obstructions.
I will say I do not admire the bitter hostility of the Fremont party.
There is too much growling, too many threatening looks. there principles
may be correct, but their manner is certainly not, and they may kill their
own party in their bitter zeal to crush that of Lincoln. Homer will
you get mother to make us some ration bags. The boys have sent a
box of clothing and c to Prescott in care of Carlos McCray. Postmaster
of that place. I send home in it my dress coat and rubber blanket
which you can get when you are down at Prescott. The charges will be light.
I have drawn a new rubber blanket. I saw John Rice the other day.
He looks well and says he had a fine visit at Hamilton. Write soon
and then direct via Cairo. Yours affectionately.
Edwin
Father, the enclosed receipt I took off Leeman well he did not sign his name to it or else tore if off I did not notice it till the other day. Get him to sign it and will you forward to me.
Edwin
Hunterville, Ga, May 28th, 1864
My Dear Father.
As I have just written to Cousin Hattie, I had not determined to write
to you so soon, or at the same time, but I thought would say a few words
to you that we marched and enclose my photographs.
I did not write many letters yesterday. After I finished my washing that
Capt. made me work on the Muster Rolls till 11 o'clock last evening. There
was no release for me till it was done and now I must hurry off these lines,
for we march this forenoon.
I expect we have got to climb mountains and do many other difficult things.
The distance to Rome, our supposed destination, is about 150 miles. I think
there is no doubt but that we are going tot he front. There is no bad news
from Sherman, but I suppose he means to make every step firm and strike
hard blows.
You must write every opportunity. Do not fancy your letters will not get
to me for they certainly will. Gen. Sherman says in a public order that
he wished the soldiers to have the full benefit of the mail facilities
and wants them and their friends to use them as much as desired. He despises
nothing but the sensation corespondents who hang about the army, too cowardly
to shoulder a musket, to puff officers.
We are now having clothing issued to us. Some of the recruits, Jack in
particular, have some shoes that seem to cry about - are rather "done gone
up" as the darkies say.
All the boys, those of the (?Zalls, Falls) especially, look tough and hearty,
and fell first rate now - better by far than when I went home and I think
I can stand a march with - its - exposures as well as any of them.
Homer, you are lucky in not being down her for reasons you will understand.
Have a good time while home. John Rice says you need not be in a hurry
to tell the officers when you are well, but of course, I want to know you
are well.
The weather is fine - not too warm = accompanied with occasional dashes
of rain.
I must stop for the drums are beating to fall in. So Good-bye and God bless
you all.
Edwin D. Levings.
Rome, Ga., Monday morning
June 6th, 1864
Dear Brother Homer,
Yours of May 22nd came to hand last night as I was getting supper.
I was truly glad to hear from you once more, and I hurriedly write a short
answer to let you know how I am. At last we have reached Rome, but
we can not see the Pope; - we have to march to Kinsgton, 20 miles east;
then we are to guard a supply train through to Sherman variously estimated
to number 15 to 100 wagons. I stood the march over the mountains
much better than I expected. Far better than I did that from Clifton
to Huntsville. We have marched 300 miles since we left Clifton.
I have not time to write any account of our march whatever, but I will
give you a full story about it as soon as I have a chance. Both divisions
perfectly hate old Blair. He marched us too far in a day, shoved
us right through without letting us have hardly any rest at all.
I suppose it is necessary for us to go to Sherman with supplies and I would
rather do it now than have him fail. Leonard Stiles is here.
He looks better than any man in the Company. There was but little
forage in among the mountains. We shall have a plenty to eat in the
foraging line now. The country is full of fruit and vegetables.
Blackberries will be ripe in 2 or 3 weeks. It has rained hard the
last 3 days. You don’t say how you are, but I suppose you are improving.
Don’t come down here till we got down near Atlanta, or till we get settled
somewhere in camp.
We march at 7 o’clock this morning. Write soon and direct via Chattanooga.
My love and best wishes to you all.
From your brother
Edwin.
Address Co. A. 12th W. Vols.
1st Brig. 4th Div.
17th Corps.
Acworth, Ga., June 9th, 1864
My Dear Parents:
I wrote last from Rome, but did not write much for the want of time.
I now hasten to improve the first opportunity and to give you an account
of our march over the mountains, for I know there rests on your minds a
feverish anxiety to learn how I stood the tramp.
The 3rd and 4th Divisions, 17th Corps. left Decatur, Ala on the 27th and
arrived here yesterday, having marched a distance of 330 miles, with but
a single day’s rest during the time. The 12th never did as hard marching
before - its Meridian march is no comparison. No other march ever
tested the patience and endurance of the men so severely, and I have not
a doubt but that it has produced effects that will lead to many a broken
down constitution. The whole command suffered a great deal from the
fatigue of this march and the universal statement is that it was the hardest
time it ever experienced. We carried our knapsacks lightened of all
that could be spared and lived on 2/3 rations which consisted of hard bread,
pork and beef, coffee, sugar, salt and pepper. The mountainous districts
afforded but little to eat. The people were poor and needed all they
possessed, consequently we did not try to forage much upon them.
Aside from onions, a little meat and corn mean, we did not have much to
vary our fare. The worst feature of the march was we were compelled
to travel too far in a day. We did not march more than 15 or 18 miles
daily, but that distance under the circumstances was too much. We
were climbing steep mountains and hills fording streams where the water
was sometimes up to the waist were footsore and needed sleep and rest and
carried knapsacks and were discouraged. Old Blair was to blame and
when our Div. Gen. (Gen. Gresham) complained to him and requested a rest,
he was inexorable, and there seemed no way but for each man to abide his
fate. He made no allowance for bad weather, bad roads or anything
else, but siting on his fine horse and looking like a peacock, without
a word or a smile for anybody, measured off his regular 15 or 18 miles,
making his headquarters at some nice house, obliging us to march oftentimes
till midnight to come up with him - once till 8 in the morning and in this
instance our brigade went to bed without any supper, preferring a little
sleep rather than food; and then were hurried off before they could get
breakfast. There was no necessity for marching us so as we could
learn. Blair was reported under arrest when we arrived at Kingston
because he should have been here sooner. We lay at Cairo longer than
necessary and it is thought he meant to make us make up the time.
I have heard many a man say he would shoot him if he ever has a chance,
and I know he is generally very unpopular. Officers up to Div. Generals
do not hesitate to express their dislike of him. President Lincoln
will lose a larger vote in this Corps because of Blair. The opinion
is he has given him command simply to appease the Copperhead sentiment
at home. I do not think the boys will fight with much confidence
while he leads them, but enough of this, I will simply say I stood the
march as well as the best of the boys, and am in excellent health. I don’t
think much of this reduced, “improved, ration system.” We do not
have enough to eat of some things; for instance, sugar and meat of which
we get but 1/2 rations. I would rather they would keep their extra
pay and give me full rations. I presume the calculations are to live
largely off the country, and I assure you I shall so endeavor. There
will be an abundance of fruit this year and considerable wheat and corn,
which will be good in quality. Wheat will be ready to cut in 2 weeks,
but there will be no one to cut it.
Edwin
Camp Randall
June 12th, 1864
Dear Mother,
I know you are anxious to hear from me so I will try and improve my time
today, as it is Sunday, by writing you a letter. We had a very pleasant
trip down the river, though it was rather slow. We left Prescott
on the Milwaukee, about 12 o’clock at night. I called at Capt. Maxsons,
Crissin, Miles’es, and Meachum, before leaving and took some small packages
for their friends. There were but few passengers on board so we were
not crowded, we got stuck on Reef Slough, and laid there 4 or 5 hours.
We arrived at Prairie Duchein the 8th about 12 m, and started for Madison
the same about 4 o’clock and arrived here that evening at 9. The
next day we went up town, sat for photographs. I had a dentist to
work at my teeth all that day. I had 11 teeth filled and one extracted,
which cost me $18.50. I did not report until the 10th.
I reported to Col. Green the Provost Marshall for transportation, but could
not get it, he told me to report to Col. Chapman at Camp Randall.
I did so and he told me where I find my quarters, to stop in, he told me
I would be sent off Monday to my regt. There are about a doz other
soldiers stopping here with me from different regiments who are waiting
for transportation. I shall have company all the way, there are two
other soldiers from the regt. I found one of my company here in the
hospital, he will not go when I do, I did not have any trouble on my way
down about my papers. I did not have only a half dozen photographs
taken on account of my funds growing small, one of my pictures was spoilt
so I did not get but five, three of them are gone already, but I am having
some more taken. I will enclose of these. There are good many
hundred day men here in camp. They have drawn their guns and have
got orders to leave for Memphis, which makes them look down in the mouth.
They think that, that, is getting too near the front. But I must
close for I have run out of ideas. Give my love to all.
Affectionately yours,
Homer
Camp of the 12th Wis. Vols.
1 1/2 miles beyond Big Shanty
Ga. Monday, June 13th, 1864
My Dear Parents,
An opportunity is offered for mailing letters at 4 p.m. and I gladly improve
it to inform you where I am, how I am, and what is transpiring here.
We are at the front, right up to the rebels who are strongly entrenched
along the mountains about 15 or 20 miles from Atlanta and are picking away
with some spirit. We are dong the same to them. Are posted
on the left of the R.R. which is in operation up to our lines. In
front of us at the distance of 1 mile is Lost Mountain, at the base of
which the rebels have breastworks and forts ready to receive us.
On the summit is stationed their Signal Corps and it is thought they have
two heavy guns up there also. We are in the valley, which is of a
rolling surface, and are entrenched also. Our camps and fortifications
are in the edge of the woods about 1 mile from theirs. Our breastworks
we built yesterday and the day before of rails, logs, timber and etc. with
earth thrown up in front. The rifle pits are but 60 rods beyond and
but 80 or 100 rods from the rebel pits. I do not know whether the
intention is to charge the rebels over such ground or not. If it
is there will be a bloody time. The enemy have all the advantage
and it looks as though he could keep it if we move forward in his front.
The belief is that 2 corps have moved to flank them, and our demonstrations
are mainly to divert their attention. Certainly, the rebels have
a tremendously strong position and I think Sherman has got something to
do before he gets them out of it and captures Atlanta. As yet the
rebels have not opened on us with artillery in our front. (I mean
the 17th Corps) but they can shell our camp if they choose in which case
we shall have to make for our works. They would evidently like to
draw us out, and then they would treat us to some of their “watermelons.”
I think. It is stated by the best authority that Johnson’s force
is 80,000. How many we have I know not. 7 A. Corps at least,
are represented here. The 4th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 23rd.
I wrote on the 9th to you from near Acworth. We are about 6 miles
from there. The 3rd Div. had the advance the following days and drove
the rebels from Big Shanty. The rebel cars left that morning and
ours came in yesterday. Blowing loud and long, to let the rebels
know we can keep ourselves in supplies. The next morning we moved
forward and took up our present position. We expected a battle but
did not have it. There was some warm skirmishing later in the day
and our Brigade lost a few men, none from the 12th. We advanced through
the woods to open fields, the rebels retreating. Then my Co. lay
down under cover of the woods till relieved at night by another.
The balance of the regiment in the meanwhile throwing up breastworks.
We are already to receive the butternuts now. It rains hard all the
time and we can’t keep dry 1/4 the time. Has rained everyday for
the past 10 days. I sleep with one Hodges. We have put up our
oil cloths and sleep above the ground, the water running under us.
Our hard marching is over and I am thankful. I had a letter the other
day from Cousin Almond. He says it rains all the time there, and
but few crops are in (that was May 31st). Uncle Myron’s resignation
was accepted and he is home - at Canton with his family. Uncle Israel
is at Madrid on a visit. Cousin Danile Packard had been wounded and
was home on 30 day furlough. Geor. A. Packard is among the wounded
under Gen. Butler. No particulars from him. I have written
you all of interest. I will write when I can and you must do the
same, not waiting for me. I have the best of health and shall try
and keep it. I shall look for Homer next week. By that time
I hope we shall have the privilege of telling the people of victory.
I hear no news from Richmond. I wish you would send me papers - some
with miscellaneous reading, any kind you have. You do not know what
a pleasure it is to us to have something to read, situated as we are. I
think there is not a sick man in the company. The regiment draws
rations for about 40 men. We left quite a number behind some of whom
are sick, some tired and some afraid to come to the front. But I
must close. Now write to me good long letters, and God be with you
all.
Your affectionate boy,
Edwin
Head Quarters in the field
June 20th, 1864
Dear Parents
I suppose you are watching every mail, but I presume that it brings no
tidings from me. I promised to write as often as I could, but I have
not had an opportunity to write before. I arrived here last night,
I left Madison on 13th at 2 o’clock. There were 9 men in the squad,
we arrived at Chicago, 9 o’clock in the evening and stopped at the Soldier’s
Rest, until 9 the next evening, when we left for Indianapolis. While
at Chicago I called Mr. Buyington’s and took tea. They were all well.
Mrs. Buyington made a strawberry short cake, which made me think of home.
Lottie is going to school she expects to graduate next summer. George
is clerking Desire Dayton is their in the city clerking. Arrived
at Indianapolis the next day at 7 o’clock and left at 8 for Jeffersonville.
We got there about 3 and crossed the Ohio river to Louisville, where we
stayed all night at the soldier’s home, and started for Nashville, got
there about half past five, and stopped for the night at the Soldiers Home,
and left the next day at 12 for Chattanooga. We traveled all day
and night, and arrived at Chattanooga the next morning 6 o’clock, where
we draw our arms, we could have stayed there two months in the convalescent
camp if we had wanted to but the front is preferable. We left there
on the train at 4 p.m. and arrived the next day about the same hour at
Big Shanty which was only about 3 or 4 miles from the front, from there
we walked to camp. I found my valise pretty heavy, I gave it to a
soldier who helped me to carry it. I found all the boys well that
were with the company. Farnsworth is at Chattanooga, sick.
I gave the package that was sent to him, to a Mr. Weed, he said he would
try and send it to him. I shall keep the money until I can hear from
him, as there would be too much risk in sending it by mail not knowing
exactly where he is. I suppose he is in some convalescent camp.
Mr. Meachum of Prescott sent $5.00 and some maple sugar, by me to his son,
but he is not here, and I can not keep the sugar. This is a hard
country to take as it is in the mountains, but we gain on them slowly,
our regt is in front of a very high mountain, called Kenesaw Peak.
We are on a very high hill, it is most too far for musket shooting but
it is just right for cannon. 21st The batteries in our division silenced
a battery on Kenesaw Peak yesterday. Hooker had some pretty hard
fighting last night It is reported that he got drove back, but it
is that he took two brigades, prisoners. There has not been any heavy
fighting today. We have a good deal of rain. I wish you could
have some of it up there. But I do not feel like writing so I will
stop.