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40.    Death and Desertion

 

 

 

 

During 1863 the war became more widespread in East Tennessee and in September General Ambrose Burnside and his Union troops occupied Knoxville.  The Confederate forces pulled back to the North Carolina state line and deployed at the various mountain passes in an attempt to defend Western North Carolina.  As the war intensified and letters from home reached the soldiers describing the increasingly desperate state of things there, desertion became common.

 

 

Gov. Zebulon B. Vance to James A. Seddon, January 5, 1863 -

The enforcement of the Conscript law in East Tennessee has filled the mountains with disaffected desperadoes of the worst character, who joining with the deserters from our Army form very formidable bands of outlaws, who hide in the fastness, waylay the passes, rob, steal, and destroy as pleased.  The evil has become so great that travel has almost been suspended through the mountains. [1]

 

 

Norm Harold to Jefferson Davis, January 11, 1863 -

And now bastard President of a political abortion, farewell.  ‘Scalp-hunter, relic, pole. And chivalrous Confederates in crime, good-by.  Except it be in the army of the Union, you will not again see this conscript.  [2]

 

 

 

Limestone Tenn, Jany the 11th 63

 

Kind Parents

 

I again with the greatest of pleasure am permitted to drop you a few lines, when I write I write to all collectivly not only to one. these lines leavs me in the best of health and in fine spirits ever hoping they many find you all in good health we are here yet and not in the hands of the Yankees. as you have doubtless heard for I hear that the news have reached thare that we were all captured, the rascals that taken 4 of our companys and burned the bridges have at last made their escape back into Kentucky after marchal had them once sarounded but the old lazy rascal let them pass through the damage they have done the road is not as great as would be suposed the bridges will soon be built again they have them already framed at Knoxville and will be up in a few weeks our boys that was taken are all paroled home but the Col and the other staff officers that were taken they are at Liberty but now stay at Greenville, there has been one of the greatest battles fought at Murfersboro that has been cince the war began the true facts in the case are both sides were badly wounded our men had the best of it the first day but owing to reinforcements which the yankees got the last day our men got the worst of it both sides then retired the Yankees retreated back to Nashville our men after receiving reinforcements are now advancing on them at Nashville That was the news last night on the train i believe that is all the news I have at present more than it is talked that this Regt will go into Kentucky before long I would be very much pleased to hear from home I have not received one letter cince I left home

I am looking for one tonight and will not close my letter untell the mail arivs to night Father I sent you one dollars worth of good tobaco by Hanson Burnette I told him to leave it at the store do you if you have not enquire for it and get it Tell Loranzy that I have tried to get him a box of caps and faild at Greenville and Lomboro if I cant get them at all I will send him something else when you write write something about the boys if you know where they are Mother we have drawn some clothing and 2 months Wages so I dont need any thing from home write soon and often I am yours in full,

Robert Meece

Peter Meece, Haywood, N.C. [3]

 

 

 

A. S. Merrimon to Gov. Z B Vance -

 

Jan. 31, 1863

I learned than a number of prisoners were shot without any trial or hearing whatever.  I hope it is not true, but if so, the parties guilty of so dark a deed should be punished.  Humanity revolts at such a crime. 

 

Feb. 16, 1863

I have no knowledge of my own touching the shooting. . . . I have learned, however, from a most reliable source that thirteen of them were killed; that some of them were not taken in arms but at their homes; that all of the men shot . . . were prisoners at the time they were shot; that they were taken off to a secluded cove or gorge in the mountains and then were made to knell down and were thus shot.  One man was badly and mortally shot in the bowels, and while he was writhing in agony and praying to God for mercy a soldier mercilessly and brutally shot him in the head with his pistol.  Several women were whipped; this I learned from someone who got his information from some of the guilty parties.  I learned that all this was done by the order of Lieut. Col. James A. Kieth.  [4]

 

 

Mrs. H. T. McLelland to Gov. Zebulon Vance, February 22,1863 -

The citizens have been very much enraged at his [H. W. Nolen, a Massachusetts native living in Franklin] course, having completely monopolized the shoe business, he bought up all the leather he could, made it into shoes & sold it to the citizens and soldiers at high figures—they being compelled to buy. He has been speculating in Brandy, and in fact in everything he has been engaged in, extortioning upon the poor wives of soldiers by selling them shoes at astonishing rates. . . . It does not look right that this Yankee pet should be permitted to extortion and amass a fortune off those who are defending our rights, when the Country is demanding and entitled to his services it should have them. [5]

 

 

 

Feb. 23, 1863

Dear Father and Mother,

I can inform you that I am in reasonable health, for which I feel very thankful to the “great perserver.” I am very desirous to hear from you. I have not had a letter from home for these two months. I’d think you might write to me oftener than you have done. Wrote you by Capt. Teague and have received no answer. The Capt. has not yet returned. It seems that when any of our men or officers get off home, that they take care not to return. Neither do as the law and general orders direct, consequently I have had to drop twenty enlisted men from our company, from the roll in disgrace and I am ordered to have these names published as deserters, how mortifing this is to me.

I hear that brother Robert has deserted his command. If he but knew how little every true patriot think of such conduct, he would return immediately and try and reprieve his character by future mysterious conduct for his country’s sake for his own and for heavens sake and for the sake of his friends. Have him return at once.

No one is more ancious to visit him and friends than I. But before I would dishonor myself and family and kin by deserting my colors, comrades and country’s cause, I would suffer even death before dishonor. How acceptable due leave of absence from camp would be, that I might visit you my kind and bereft parents. My great desire is and has been to live and see the present national difficulties over and peace and prosperity prevail throughout the whole land, so I can enjoy home and friends no one to disturb my quietetude.

God has been merciful to our family. But how great the wickedness of soldiers. How sinful I have been due to my soldier life. It mortifies me to think of my profanity and wickedness, such as the evils and temptations that I do wrong, while conscience thunderous remorse. Oh how I crave the congenial influence of home and friends that nurture a better feeling than that which naturally prevades the soldier’s heart. There is nothing in the profession of arms but what is revolting to the noble heart and mind.

But they would have it so. The North has forced this war upon us. Now we drink the bitter drugs of revelation, starving for National peace, may it soon be won. May the time hasten when we strike our tents, deposit our arms and return home to enjoy the book of liberty.

Feb. 25th.

This morning finds me in common health. The company are generally well. Cousin of H.M. Henry is sick at the Brigade hospital, very bad off with diarrhea. There is little else astir in this department.

We hear there was a small fight the other day at Mechanicville. It is reported in camp this morning that the enemy had a considerable row at Murfresboro the other day, that three regiments were engaged killing and wounding about three hundred of their own number. It is said “Negro” was the cause of row.

It has been thundering all morning. Now heavy drops of rain are falling on the tent. I expect you to write me soon. Direct your letters to Shelbyville, Tenn. 29th Regiment, 2nd Brig, of Gen. McCowens Division, Polk Corp. You will please remember me to all the family especially the small children. Give my respects to sister Elenor and children, also to Fanny and family and accept the best wishes of your absent son.

W.B. Ferguson

 

P.S. Since this letter was written Capt. Teague and 11 of the men have returned to camp. Our company is getting pretty full again.

W.B. Ferguson [6]

 

 

 

John W. Reece to Christina Reese, March 26, 1863 -

If you say for mee to cum I shal cum.  But I have studied it all over long ago . . . I wan to do the Best I can for my family and myself.  To stay hear at aleven dollars a month - you cant live on that whil stuff is so hy.  Well to run away and go home and have to lay out – I cant help you to anythiumng to liv on. that seem to me lik that will not doo.  I wood Bee a drawback instid of a help to you and the children . . . I think I will cum home anyhow if you think we can make out By my doging about to keep out of the ways.[7]

 

 

 

April 15, 1863

 

Mesers N.J. (Nathan) and G.L. (Garland Ferguson)

 

Dear Brothers,

This beautiful morning I spend a few moments in writing to let you know that I am well and back in camp. 45 of the Co. are here. 13 recruits Capt. Teague is behind. We left him in Haywood to get up some of our boys who were not disposed to come back. Since I have been here the time has gone more slowly seemingly than it ever did before. I attribute it to the fact that I am able to see more plainly by my short stay at home the great contrast between civil life and that of a soldier’s life. Our boys are all in good health, this is a great satisfaction. Since I returned to camp I have been reading one of T.L. Authors interesting novels, “A tale of rest life.” It has sobered my thoughts much and dispelled much of the gloom from my soul. I could be contented here if I could always have some interesting book to read.

While not otherwise employed, I think every soldier should be storing the mind with useful knowledge. It was rumored here last evening that General Forrest has taken Memphis and Fort Pillow, hope it all true. It seems from what I can learn that our case is more prosperous this spring so far, than it was last. Hope we will be blessed this year and our liberties secured. For this we ought to pray and fight, no one but a soldier can imagine how desirous I am for an honorable peace. What I have seen of war only makes me detest it and cling more fondly to the injunction “Be at Peace with all Men.” Yet I consider there is no peace where there is no honor. You will please pardon me for not writing you more frequently; when I was at the old home.

Tell you for a truth I found it impossible to have my mind sufficiently composed for letter writing. I never retired at night or awoke in the morning, ate a good meal or met a kind friend but that I thought of my dear brothers in tented field and in an enemy prison. My pleasures were greatly reduced by these yearnings and my place and quietude continually marred. Oh when will such anxious thoughts as these cease to trouble our minds and we can once more meet a united family at the “Old Home.” Will this ever be, can it ever be? Nothing is impossible with God, he controls all things. It is beyond our control to have these things come to pass. God can shield us as the with the hollow of his hand and preserve our lives and permit us to meet once more around the old family circuit.

If this should not be his will, we have it within our grasp to lay hold of the blessed promises given to us in the new testament and make our escape from the pits of sin and bonds of iniquity and thus secure a home where friends meet to part no more and everlasting abiding peace a heaven whereas and earthly turmoil can never disturb happiness.

When I look back on my past life, I have many things to regret, to loom up before my vision. My life has been truly iniquitous. This will never do, I must cut loose from many vicious habits or ruin is close at hand. Could I have the nerve and stability of character to withstand temptations, I might be happy and live in hope of doing a good and my last days being good days. These incoherent thoughts penned hastily are true. I know that it to be true. I cannot believe that I have determined to do with all the days of my natural life, yet I find that when I would do well, evil is always present.

These facts I give you reposing a Brother’s confidence in you believing that you cannot be so cruel as expose a brother’s faults but be willing to give him such council as will be beneficial, you will please show this letter to no one, not even to your most intimate friend. Let me hear from you very soon.

Your brother,

W.B. Ferguson [8]

 

 

 

Limestone Tenn

April the 20th 1863

 

Dear Parents

 

I am permitted once more to drop you a few lins and am pleased and vey thankful to God that I am getting better of the measels I have had them broken out well and they are now all pretty near dried up and I am able to set up nearly all day. I am very thankful that it is no worst I think I am out of danger if I can take care of myself you may rest asured I will do the best I can. Yesterday our company had to do a pretty serious job that is to hang a negro the negro had maltreated a white woman our boys taken him up had him trid before a justice condemned him to hang and hung him up to a limb yesterday. A serious accident hapened to one of our men last Saturday: there are a good many troops stationed at Zollicoffer and with them a company of artilerist there were drilling and trying their peaces shooting their booms and unfortunatly one boom bursed before they expected it would killing Lt. Fergeston of our Regt. A peace of the shel struck him on the head shivering his head all to pecces. I have no general news to write you this thime There is a general movement of troops in my quater we may look for sturing times soon I expect we will stay here all summer there is no other forces that the general can send here we have drawn a full supply of clothes of all sorts I drew you (Mother) a pare of shoes they are probalbe too large if you cant ware them you can swap them for a smaller pare I could be pleased if you can make me a nice pare of pants this spring and send them the first chance

we have all drawn our money up to this present time I sent 20 dollars by Medford I want it on the most of it paid on Morgans note. I instructed Medford what to do with it after he pays on the note if there is any left I want you to keep it and lift my letters and I will send them without pay I think they will likly go better I have nothing new to write so I will close expecting to hear from you Soon this in beatiful weather looks much like planting corn I will write again by the next mail I am yours respectfuly

Robrt Meece

Peter & Nancy

Haywood N.C. [9]

        

 

 

 

April 26, 1863

 

Dear Father and Family,

 

After respects I write you in haste. Mr. John Noland leaves here today for Haywood. I will send the letter by him. I have nothing new to write. I am in good health, for which I feel thankful. I hope this will find you and all the rest well. I would have been pleased to have been at home when Garland was there. I want to see him and Nathan as well as the rest very much.

I understand the 25th N.C. has moved. I hardly know where to direct a letter so it will find them. Did Lt. Hayatts crowd get the deserter they came after? Have you heard anything of E.J. Jenkins since Lt. Murray left Haywood?

Capt. Teague has been released without punishment for over staying his furlough. This gave us all a great satisfaction. The Capt. is a good and brave officer and really good to us all.

Father, it is impossible for me to tell anything about the status of the two opposing armies here or where they will be engaged in deadly conflict, likely before a great while. I want to know how Uncle Andrew’s family is with the fever. I hear cousin Nathan got killed about the 18th inst. by a cannon ball from our own guns. It seems truely that in the midst of it we are in death. If Mother has not sent me that coat and ect. likely they can be sent with Mr. Rogers to our company for me. Write soon give me all the news. I am as ever your obiedent son.

W.B. Ferguson

29th N.C. Regt. [10]

        

 

 

 

W. W. Stringfield –

Sixty-Ninth Regiment

Several companies of the Sixty-ninth were ordered to Powell's Valley in 1862, between Jacksboro and Cumberland Gap – one Indian company at Baptist Gap had quite a battle with some Federals, killing, wounding and driving back their force. The Indians were led by Lieutenant Astooga Stoga, a splendid specimen of Indian manhood and warrior, who was killed in the charge. This noble Indian is worthy of a lengthy sketch but the writer has not the data, if he had time and space. Like most of the leading Indians of his tribe, he was a professed Christian, and largely by his efforts the New Testament was translated into the Cherokee language by the great American Bible Society. The Indians were furious at his death and before they could be restrained, they scalped several of the Federal wounded and dead, for which ample apology was made at the time. In the Spring of 1863 the regiment in General A. E. Jackson's Brigade was in the Department of East Tennessee commanded by Brigadier-General Daniel S. Donalson. In March, 1863, it was at Strawberry Plains and in April at Jonesboro, and in July at Zollicoffer, Tenn.

Some time afterwards Bragg's army entered Kentucky from middle Tennessee, and after quite a campaign there, returned to Tennessee by way of Cumberland Gap to Knoxville. This campaign caused a temporary lull in East Tennessee affairs, but the retreat of Lee from Maryland and Pennsylvania and the surrender of Vicksburg was followed by outspoken defiance all over East Tennessee.

Spies and recruiting officers from the Union Army were almost everywhere. Several cavalry raids burned and attempted to burn railroad bridges and depots until finally, on 4 September, General Burnside captured Knoxville, the stronghold of East Tennessee, without firing a gun or meeting an enemy. Some time prior to this all the white companies of the regiment and several companies, of Walker's Battalion (of our Legion) were concentrated for drill and discipline at Greenville, Tenn., and were brigaded with the Sixtieth and Sixty-second Regiments and Twelfth Battalion, Georgia Troops, and several Virginia, Georgia and Florida Regiments.

After Burnside's occupancy of Knoxville there was a general "On to Richmond," "On to Chattanooga," and "On to Atlanta" cry in the Federal army. The hopes of this cry were realized afterwards, but at very great cost of life to the enemy. Those were gloomy days to those of us who left our homes and loved ones at the mercy of the enemy. This territory was never reclaimed, afterwards almost every foot of it was fought over, time and again, and its occupancy was costly to the enemy, but of great political significance to them.

Part of the Sixty-ninth and most of the Eightieth (Walker's Battalion, which had been raised to a regiment), with detachments of the Twenty-ninth, Thirty-ninth, Sixtieth and Sixty-second North Carolina Regiments, fell back to the gap of the Smoky Mountains, or the North Carolina line, there to guard against the invasion of that region.

The greater part of the Sixty-ninth, with part of Singleton's, Berry's, Whitaker's and Aikin's companies of the Eightieth, fell back towards Bristol, Va. Immediately upon his occupancy of Knoxville, Burnside sent forces up the railroad which had been surrendered without, a struggle, or the destruction of a bridge, to Jonesboro, Tenn., also sent cavalry to Blount, Sevier, Cocke, and Washington counties, Tennessee, guarding against surprises from that direction, and .threatening North and South Carolina by way of Murphy, Webster, Waynesville and Asheville, and attempting to capture Colonel Thomas' forces, good turnpike roads penetrating these mountains. But the "fighting end" of Thomas' Legion was not idle in upper East Tennessee, and marched and counter-marched in every county in that end of the State, and up to Saltville, Va., leaving the bones of their comrades (since kindly gathered at Knoxville by the noble women of Tennessee) all over that section.

When Tennessee was fully surrendered great gloom overspread the soldiers from the border States, and many Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and North Carolina troops returned to their homes. Bragg's army with a muster roll of 83,767, had few over 40,000 guns, and guns are all that count in battle.

General Bragg wrote to General Lee that after seven months of conscription, not a soldier was added to his army; that Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina troops could not be depended upon, a very unjust aspersion cast upon all, especially North Carolinians, most of whom, even after leaving their regiments in the East and West, did good service at home. No section of the Union furnished as many soldiers to the Union Army according to the population as East Tennessee. With such surroundings as these it is no wonder that so many were induced to desert, or more properly stated, returned to their homes.

The same day that General Burnside occupied Knoxville, Colonel Thomas, with several hundred men, fell back from Strawberry Plains, passing through Sevierville to the North Carolina line, taking all the Indians and many whites. He was closely followed by the Federals and had quite a skirmish near Sevierville, on 7 or 8 September, 1863, but he crossed the Smoky Mountains and at once securely blockaded all the roads leading in that direction from near Paint Rock to near Ducktown.

Lieutenant-Colonel Love and Major Stringfield, with 600 or 700 men, were ordered to fortify and hold Carter's Depot at the railroad bridge across the Watauga, about twenty miles west of Bristol.

General John S. Williams, of Kentucky, since United States Senator, then commanded the Department of East Tennessee which was abandoned to the foe, after the shameful surrender of Cumberland Gap 9 September, 1863.

Burnside's forces, composed largely of native Tennesseeans, rather recklessly took charge of the country. One regiment of troops (One Hundredth Ohio) went to Jonesboro on the cars 5 September, 1863, and several hundred ventured up to Carter's and demanded the surrender of the fort. The next day Major Stringfield was ordered to take 200 of his men and a battalion of cavalry (McLin) under Captain D. D. Anderson, and reconnoitre the position of the enemy. He took this force to Jonesboro and below. On 7 September General A. E. Jackson came up with the balance of the Sixty-ninth North Carolina, the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry and Sixteenth Georgia Cavalry and Borrough's Battery, and learning that the enemy were fortifying in and around the old limestone blockhouse and a stone mansion near by, the Sixty-ninth was ordered up by General Jackson and at 3:00 a. m. on the 8th, we drove them from Telford's depot to Limestone, where they made a determined stand, evidently being handled by some veteran officers. Closing in upon them on all sides, we forced them to surrender with a loss of 20 killed, 30 wounded and 314 prisoners, with 400 splendid small arms. Our loss was six killed and fifteen wounded. Our regiment was immediately armed with the guns here captured (Enfield rifles). The enemy were the One Hundredth Ohio Regiment (Infantry) and were a fine looking body of men. Knowing that this capture would arouse the enemy, we fell back towards Carter's. Ten days afterwards the enemy approaching in force with several regiments of cavalry, battle was given them at Carter's. Our cavalry was much weaker than theirs. Owing to the general advance movements by the enemy, the capture of Cumberland Gap, or rather its shameful surrender by General Frazer 9 September, 1863, and advance movements all up to the Salt Works and into West Virginia – a long line of defense – we were compelled to draw in our line and concentrate our forces.

Our position at Carter's on the east bank of the Watauga river, was impregnable, and the enemy, after two assaults, flanked us at Devault's Ford on the north, and Taylor's on the south side, causing us to fall back to Zollicoffer, or "Union Depot," now Bluff City. The enemy about this time hearing about our great victory over them at Chickamauga, hastily retired towards Knoxville. We followed them to Bull's Gap, the Sixty-ninth being the only infantry regiment. On 5 October, 1863, the cavalry had a fight at Greenville, killing seven, wounding twelve and capturing ten of the enemy, with a loss of three killed and seven wounded, General Jno. S. Williams, of "Cerro Gordo" fame, commanding our troops. On 15 October, after several days skirmishing with the enemy, General Williams gave battle at Blue Springs with his 1,800 dismounted men, holding in check Burnside's 7,000 veterans. The Sixty-ninth was ordered to his aid, but hearing of a flank movement of the enemy, we were ordered to retreat towards Jonesboro, and finally to Abingdon, Va. In our retreat three miles above Greenville, our cattle, wagons, artillery and infantry, in order named, were surrounded before we knew it. General Burnside had thrown General Foster with 3,000 cavalry in our front, attempting our capture. The first intimation we had of their presence was in the capture of our Adjutant, L. C. May, and Captain Tip (H. H.) Taylor, Acting Adjutant-General of our brigade. Captain May escaped and gave us warning.

In a few moments after the presence of the enemy was known Colonel turned back the wagons, ordered forward the Sixty-ninth at double quick, threw it in line of battle across the road, and bringing forward the artillery, began at the earliest dawn of day a furious artillery fire upon the enemy in corn fields and meadows confronting us, fortunately for us, bursting shells in their very midst. Before they could realize the sudden change of the situation, the Sixty-ninth, with the "bear hunter's rebel yell," was upon them. Our men realized at once that quick and deadly work must be done, or we would all be captured. The entire 600 men at sunrise dashed forward at the enemy in a heavy skirmish line, Love upon the right and Stringfield upon the left, with company officers all in place, all cheering and directing their men. Lieutenant Welch, of Company F, afterwards killed at Winchester, was shot through the thigh by the side of the writer; very few others hurt. This was a running fight for ten miles. Two Federals were killed in the yard of Senator Patterson, son-in-law of President Johnson. Twelve or fifteen, others were killed. General Williams, while slowly retreating before Burnside, heard our artillery open upon the enemy. Dashing forward at a gallop, he materially aided us in the achievement of one of the most brilliant retreats of the war. General Williams was profuse in his compliments, personally and in special orders, to our regiment. We retreated sixty-two miles in thirty hours, fighting and driving the enemy much of the way towards Jonesboro, but not losing cattle or wagons and but few men. The retreat did not stop until we reached Virginia and fortified Abingdon, and covered Saltville, where we were reinforced by the brigades of Corse and Wharton, Virginia troops, under General Robert Ransom. We remained quietly here until 1 November, when we began another forward movement towards Knoxville, Tenn. While here a beautiful Carolina maiden, having heard of the heroism of our men and of complimentary orders about them, sent the following acrostic to our gallant Colonel, J. R. Love, who several years since has "crossed over the river and is resting under the shade of the trees."

While we were waiting a few days near Blountsville, Tenn., our cavalry under William E. Jones, made a nice capture of twelve or fifteen hundred of the enemy's cavalry at Rogersville, and near 100 wagons of the Second Tennessee (United States) and Seventh Ohio. The citizens here-abouts were mostly our friends, something unusual in East Tennessee, and had noble kindred in our army, mostly with Bragg.

While around Blountsville, company and regimental drill was daily enforced. Lieutenant Thomas Ferguson, a good soldier, afterwards made Captain and captured at Piedmont, joined us here with 75 recruits. A painful example for discipline was made here, one poor fellow of Company K, a Tennesseean, with two others of Tennessee troops, captured at Rogersville, Tenn., by General W. E. Jones, in the uniform of the enemy, were court-martialed and shot at the stake. The army then moved down the Rogersville and Kingsport Valley towards Knoxville, on the north side of Holston river, wading the river and creeks in the ice.

General Robert Ransom was a fine disciplinarian and fighter. Sometimes unpopular in camp, or upon the march, but universally popular in battle, where it was an inspiration to see him. He did not "snuff battle from afar," but rushed into the thickest fray, to cheer and guide his men. In all this dread winter campaign the Sixty-ninth were cheerful and obedient. Winter quarters were built near Rogersville in December, but were occupied only one week. After this neither the men or officers had tents or houses, but faced the storms of rain and snow, mud and ice, in tramps several miles above and below Rogersville, down towards Knoxville.

General Alfred E. Jackson was our brigade commander this winter in all our campaigns. He was a cultivated gentleman and personally a brave man. He was a good man and always managed the men to the best advantage in so hostile a region. He was personally and scrupulously honest, and demanded the same of his men; but he was a little too strict for the "old soldier" ideas of those who wanted to prowl. The marches below Rogersville and down to Blaine's Cross Roads were mostly made in bad, and very cold weather. When we met Longstreet's returning forces after his repulse at Knoxville, and our great defeat at Missionary Ridge, the entire army fell back near Rogersville, and the Sixty-ninth, with others crossed the Holston river and went into camp on the railroad near Russelville on 1 January, 1864. Soon afterwards the Sixty-ninth returned to our old quarters at Carter's Depot, where with that as a base of operations we could "swing around" the mountains on several trips, after "renegades," blockade stills and deserters. [11]

 

 

 

Cumberland Gap, Tenn     May th 31st 1863

 

Dear Parents

except these lines as my best respect for you which through the mercy of God leavs me in the Land of His Living and in tolerable health I hope they may find you and all the children well as soon as I arove here I droped you a few lines concering our march discription of this place &,c, we are yet camped 1/2 mile from the Gap on this side but are not well fixed up as you know we left all our tents from this summer we have litle bark shelters brush on a blanket streched up for to sleep in of a night you know that is bad living especialy when it rains and it rains hard too for I think there fall the hardest rain here today I ever saw.

I can not give you a discription of this place even if I were to try it is mor rough and mountainous than in our country. the water is pure & free stone I went over in to Kentucky the other day and vied our fortifications on the other side of the mountains I think it is imposable for the enamy to come through this gap I beleave one thousand can whip 10 thousand here the Yankees done the most of this work while they werehere last summer they have entrencd this whole mountain side and cut the timer off of nearly 10 thousand acres of these mountains on both sides of the Gap although it is a healthy place in Lismomer I dont like it at all because we cant get any thing to eat only what we draw and that is rough we only get one quater of a pound of bacon per day and sometimes a little lean beef & corn bread we dont fare like we did at Limestone.

I dont know that I have any thing more about the place our force is about 6 thousand and the Yankees about the same close up to the Gap five companies of our Regt & with them our company have gone over into Ken today & will return tommor if the Yankees dont capture them they will go about 10 miles into Kentucky & doubtles will meet up with the pickets of the enemy as they were in a mile of the Gap day before yesterday and captured 5 of our pickets wounded one. we hear Chering news from the west our men at Vicksburg have gained a complet victory over the enemy at that peace I hope the news is true, we have no idea how long we will remain here we may soon go into Ken and then we may go further down the road shortly. the health of our company is tolerable good at the present as far as we know I havnt heard from the boys we left behind I would like to hear from Posey well I havent heard cince we left him on the road he gave out 3 mils from Moristown he is either caned back to Greenville or to Knoxville no more at present remaning yours as ever dirict to the Gap Tenn

Robt Meece

Peter Meece

 

P.S. only a few minutes after I closed this I reced a very kind note from Mother and was highly gratifide with it I will write you another in a short time I like to hear from home often I am glad to har that the boys are safe. I dispached a letter to them this eavning.

R.M. [12]

 

 

 

 

L. S. Gash to Gov. Zebulon Vance, June 1, 1863 -

The true course in my opinion in most of the cases is they are tired of a war that they can see no hopes of ever being ended by fighting and not a few of them believe they nor the South would be benefitted by it if the North was conquered. Thousands believe in their hearts that there was no use in breaking up the old government and that Secession was wrong in the beginning and can hardly be made right by fighting. And further they believe the longer the fight is continued and kept up the more and harder the difficulties to settle; that the South could have got a better settlement at the end of the first year of the war than can be had now. . . . The longer we continue the war the worse for us as well as the North. [13]

 

 

Toms Creek Surry County

June 2 1862

Dear Son,

I this morning seat myself to write you a few lines to let you know that we are all in common health at this time and hope that these lines may come safe to you and find you doing well. I was much afraid to hear that you was missing from your company after the battle. I feared that you was killed and lost among strangers but I received a letter from Mr. Whitlock that informed me that you was alive and well for which letter I feal thankful to him who takes care of little boys in time of battle. I also received your letter stating your misfortune of being taken prisoner and that you was sick of Petersburg and I cant help but be uneasy about you for fear that you will get worse. Please to write as soon as you get this letter and let me know how you get along. I wrote a long letter to you a few days before the battle you never wrote wheter you got it or not. Your mother wants me to write for her—that her and the little girls is well as common and wants you to come home on your parole if you can and if you get any worse please to write to me as soon as possible and I will try to come after you. We are getting on tolerable well with our crop. Jonathan came home yesterday morning he is well as common and so is Betty and children. What they will do with him for coming home I cant tell. Leaving the camps and coming home appears to be common these days. I have the bad news to write to you that Isaac Ashburn was brout home ded yesterday and Wm Hill from 55th Regt. the day before. I hear that your Unlde Wm Key’s boy is at home. Either on furlough as I cant tell. The times here is common everything high—and money plenty the country quiet at this time but I cant tell how long it will remain. There is some hopes of peace and I think the sooner the better—I think that we have had men enough killed and our national debt long enough for us to begin to reflect and inquire where this strife will end if only left to the sword. So far—well for the present write me a letter on the back side of this and tell me all the news you can and how you come to be captured. Try to be a good boy and do the best you can.

to A. Denny Joel Denny [14]

 

 

 

New York Times

July 24, 1863

Eighty-five year old Mrs. Unus Riddle was whipped, hanged temporarily, and robbed.  Seventy-year-old Sally Moore was whipped with hickory rods until the blood ran down her back.  Another woman, the mother of an infant child, was tied in the snow to a tree and her baby placed in the doorway of her cabin.  Unless she talked, the soldiers told her, they would leave them both there.  Sara and Mary Shelton, wives of two suspected Marshall raiders, were whipped and suspended by ropes around their necks.  A young mentally retarded girl named Martha White was beaten and tied by the neck all day to a tree. . . .

Five of them were ordered to kneel down.  Ten paces away the soldiers stood, their guns ready.  Sixty-year-old Joe Woods cried out, "For God's sake, men, you are not going to shoot us? If you are going to murder us at least give us time to pray.  Someone reminder Keith to remember his promise of a trial.  He ignored both statements.  He ordered his soldiers to fire.  The prisoners put their hands over their faces and begged for mercy.  The soldiers hesitated.  Despite what they had suffered, some refused to obey the command.  "Fire or you will take their places", Keith told them. The soldiers raised their guns, the prisoners shuddered, the word to fire was given, and four of the men died instantly.  A fifth had only been wounded.  Writhing in agony from a wound in the stomach, he begged for mercy.  One of the soldiers finished the job by shooting the prisoner in the head.

Five more prisoners were ordered to kneel down.  Among this group was David Shelton, aged thirteen.  He pleaded with the soldiers not to kill him.  "you have killed my father and brothers", he said.  "You have shot my father in the face; do not shoot me in the face."  The soldiers fired.  Five victims fell, but again one remained.  It was David Shelton.  He moved to an officer, pleading, "You have killed my old father and my three brothers; you have shot me in both arms - I forgive you all this - I can get well.  Let me go home to my mother and sisters."  They dragged him back to the execution spot and shot him dead.  The remaining three men took their turn and died. [15]

 

 

 

T. W. Atkins to J. A. Seddon, July 29, 1863 -

. . . the safety and security of  . . . our homes and property are seriously menaced and openly assaulted by herds of disloyal citizens and gangs of deserters from the Confederate army. . . . we shall doubtless fall an easy prey to the malicious hands of marauders, which now openly parade themselves in the different counties, west of the Blue Ridge.  [16]

 

 

 

William W. Stringfield’s Diary

 

[1863]  Some of our men are Deserting to the Enemy. Poor fools like a fool fish “jump out of the frying Pan into the fire”. Better “bear the ills we have than to fly to those we know not of.” We are marching from Paint Rock to Horse Creek—in and around Greenville—Jonesboro—Telford—Blountsville—Kingsport—Rogersville etc. I am on court marshall often acting as “judge and advocate” etc. I am getting along well with officers and men. All seem to like me. I find it a disagreeable duty to have to discipline men—but I have less of this than I did with Tenn troops. In my marching around in these upper counties I meet with many old friends who seem glad to meet as it is often a protection to meet friends. I often see old friends in the army. I will protect citizens regardless of Politics.

 

 Sept. 5  Carter Co. I came here this morning from Zollicoffer to assume command of the post. Troops—200 Infantry. 75 Cavalry and 50 Artillery—[Hugh L. W.] McClungs Battery make up the force. Some home guards under [Owen M. White and [John. B.] McLin—[James M.] McConnell & [Thomas A.] Butlers Co.s of the [Legion]. The Yanks are supposed to be in force as the demand to surrender was made in the name of “Maj General Burnside”. This is the first time that his name has been used up here in E Ten.

 

Sept. 6  Jonesboro. At daylight this AM I took 75 Cavalry and started in search of the Yankees—but “nary Yank” do I see. I got here by 9am, but the Enemy of 400 or 500 had left by sunrise on a train. I first galloped through the town—midst the smiles and cheers of beautiful women & waving of handkerchiefs. I remained in town all day and on Picket below town most of the night.

 

Sept. 7  This am Gen. Alfred E. Jackson came down with the 4th Ky. Cavalry—the 16th Ga. Batt. & [William H.] Burroughs Artilery etc—and we will wake up the Yanks tomorrow.

 

Sept. 8  This am we all moved down upon the Enemy at Telfords Depot—6 miles below this. The Enemy fought well [and] were evidently commanded by a Veteran—but we drove them in to the Block House. I commanded the cavalry. I went on Picket down to Leesburg at daylight, thence across to Telfords—drove Enemy 6 miles to Limestone where after a stubborn fight of 2 hours we captured 290 Prisoners, 30 wounded & 20 Killed of them. Our losses 6 Killed & 15 wounded. I took a splendid sword from the commander. . . also a good gum cloth. These men were of the 100th Ohio [and] of [our] troops engaged were Major  [James A.] McKamy with 100 of our Batt. also [James W.] Cooper’s and [Julius M.] Welch’s cos—all did their duty. Prisoners were all sent off same evening to Richmond Va.

 

Sept. 9  In this fight Enemy were in a block house across Lick Creek. At Depot Col [James R.] Love—Maj McKamy—[ Captains] Cooper—Welch—[Elisha G.] Johnson. I Killed one fellow in the round up, he was hid in a briar thicket in front, near me. I was the first one to reach fort after the white flag was raised. We also captured a fine large Drum.

 

Sept. 20  Carter’s Depot. A large Federal force is in our front. Major Gen [Colonel Eugene W.] Crittenden Federal a brother of our General [Colonel George B.] Crittenden is in command. A strange meeting to day of these two brothers in opposing armies.

 

Sept. 21  This Carter’s Station is at the river with a ford on the river 3 miles below and one 4 miles above. Yanks under Burnside in large force. Forces are fighting all day & part of the night in full view of each of them & the depot. This place is 5 or 6 miles on river north of the Co seat of Carter Co which is the strongest Union Co in E. Ten., near the home of Senator [Landon] C. Haynes and his bro-in- law Hon. [Nathaniel] G. Taylor, M.C. from Tenn in U.S. Congress.

We have made several hard marches one notable one of 61 miles in 30 hours. I walked myself to let tired and sick men ride my horse. On one trip between Zollicoffer or Union as the Yanks call the name I saw the grave of my great grand father Jas King under an Iron slab. We built some breast works to welcome the Yanks, who are this side of Bristol. Let them come, we are ready.

 

Nov. 13  Below Blountsville. For the first time in my life, I saw Three soldiers shot to death, at the stake for Desertion. Poor fellows. At an early hour this morning—all our 8 or 10 thousand soldiers were marched on in an open field and formed into a hollow square. One was of Butlers Co. “K”—Silvery Hamilton of 19th Ten, the other was of [W.C.] Kains Battery.

 

Nov. 26  Lt. Tom Ferguson with 71 new men came in today from N.C. March down the road forded river, cold wading. Gen Robert Ransom—at point of pistol made some men wade. I let lots of them ride my horse. We are marching down toward Knoxville, something is up. Rain, rain, mud, mud. March 12 to 14 miles a day. Heard of the death of James Petty an old neighbor at Plains. He belonged to a Yankee cavalry and was Killed in a battle near Blountsville. Died near Big Creek.

 

Nov. 30  Morisburg. March 18 miles, cold, cold, too cold to ride.

 

Dec. 1  Camps 1 mile West of Rogersville. Retreating again for what—God help my home folks. Marched 20 miles.

 

Dec. 2  Camp 4 M West of Beans Stations,—all night again. Men are cheerful and in good spirits, by tomorrow I hope to be down near home 20 miles.

 

Dec. 3  At home. Thank God I am at home again and once more see the faces of My loved ones. Alex Carmack, Wm Parker and I came by way of Rutledge. I find mother and sister Mary much better off than I expected from what I had heard. We crossed the Holston river at the mo. of Mossy Creek & via New Market. Got supper at Mr. [William] H. Moffatts & had pleasure of seeing the Young Ladies.  [General James] Longstreet has given up the siege of Knoxville. That is bad—but all will be right some of these days.

 

Dec. 4  Camp near Blains X Roads. I returned to camp from home this AM. I expected to find the army on road to Knoxville, but we are meeting Longstreets troops. I fear another retreat. They are demoralizing to the men.

 

Dec. 5  Four mile E of Blains X Roads. Our army retreated 4 miles toward Rutledge. As we move out Longstreets forces occupied our ground.

 

Dec. 6  Quiet.

 

Dec. 7  Yesterday I was ordered by Gen Ransom to take Alex Carmack and Wm Parker and go over to the Plains on a scout and bring in any Absentees & Deserters. We went directly across by Dan McBuz—3 miles above Plains. There we heard of 8 or 10 Renegades under Tom Smart. They had searched my house and sister Sarah and had “cut up” generally. Smart is a Deserter from our Army. If we catch him he will find the force of outrageous justice. We returned to camp by New Market and mouth of Mossy Creek.

 

Dec. 8  In camp.

 

Dec. 9  Near Morrisburg. We are still falling back. Very cold. In camp our fires are large & we Keep as warm as we can. I dont like so much retreating

 

 

Dec. 10  Yellow Store—I am very tired from my very tiresome walks. I let sick men ride my horse. Marched 18 miles. An old friend C.C. Miller of fathers lived here. Resting a day or so.

 

Dec. 14  Marble Hall. Marched from Yellow Store to day extremely disagreeable tramps. Mud—mud—mud. We distinctly hear cannon in direction of Beans Station. I never saw weather or roads so bad. We moved out at daylight another 24 hours will bring us face to face with Burnside’s Army. Then perhaps I may have to surrender my life upon my country’s Alter. I fear not to face the issue, whatever it may be for head, heart, limb and life are with my country. When God, in His infinite mercy, calls me hence I hope to go to a better world. Lets us advance upon them and drive them out.

 

Dec. 15  Camp near Beans Station. A pretty hard march brought us here. I was in command of rear guard of 200 men. I did not reach camp on the immediately South of Beans Station. Started AM West of Moristown road. Cold has moderated a little. Cannonading distinctly heard in the direction of Rutledge. The fight here yesterday was quite severe. Enemy driven from Morrisburg to 1 mile west of here. Our loss 14 Killed 50 wounded. Enemies not know. 2 dead and 2 mortally wounded found. They took shelter in the large Hotel and the sharpshooters hurts us much till our cannon riddled the Hotel with shot & shell. The marks of deadly conflict can never be effaced from that and other Buildings near. We are likely to stay here for a day or so. I say go on.

 

Dec. 16 and 17  Beans Station—We remained quietly for 2 days “All hands and the cooks” are well rested and we are ready to advance upon the retreating foe. I hope that E. Tenn is soon to be redeemed & distingishly. God grant it.

 

Dec. 18  Beans Station—Still quietly here. I can but give vent to my pent up feelings of disgust and displeasure of the apparent tardiness of our comd. General in not moving on the Enemy. But I hope all is for the best. I hope. As I am not responsible for those delays, I will try to rest easy. But Oh, how I do want the Enemy driven from my home and country.

 

Dec. 19-20  B. Station—Still here. Some half of our Div—Ransom—going over toward the mo of Chueky . . . prefer that to Rogerville, [Bull’s?] Cap or Kingsport, but any where I am a soldier in the service of my Native South.

 

Dec. [21]  Beans Station—I hear we are to go into Winter Qrs near Rogersville. So be it. Yesterday. . . I called upon Ed Burruss son of Jno W Burruss of Woodville Miss—a nephew of my dear step mother. He is a nice young man, is clerking in the AAG office of Maj. [Brigadier] Gen. [Benjamin G.] Humphreys,  [General Lafayette] McLaws Division, Longstreets corps. Heard from the McGehe family, all well.

 

Dec. 22  Morrisburg, Tenn. Camp 1  mile W of Rogersville. Very cold. Called on my old co in 31St Ten. Poor boys I am sorry for them. They treated me very badly, but it was best for me in the long run.

 

Dec. 25  Winter Quarters near Rogersville—Christmas 1863—In co with Col JR Love & others I, went in to R. called on the Alexander family & others. Also came out to home of Col [Richard G. ] Fain & helped eat a big Xmas turkey. 2 nice Young Ladies & a very clever old Lady Mr. Dix Alexander is an old friend of father’s. Knew him 30 or 40 yrs back.

 

Dec. 29  Broke camp & moved toward Austin Mills & Russellville, Ten. Sgt. Geo W Bryson, Co. “F” died here a day or so ago. Splendid man. The ford being too deep our wagons went by upper ferry. After a march of 10 miles we came to camp 1 ½ miles North of Whitesburg. This day ends the campaign of 1863 an eventful one. I came in at S. Plains Jan. l—63 and closed here about 34 miles from the beginning. [17]