THE STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX]
1862-1865
Skip to February 8, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 8, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
INFORMATION
WANTED of the whereabouts of my brother Stephen Adams, who left, about three
years ago, and settled in Red River county, Texas. My husband's name was Wm. Smith, who died about a year ago,
in ten miles of Springfield Mo., where we both lived. since that time I have been dispossessed of all my
effects—my house and property everything destroyed and carried off by Lincoln
Jayhawkers. Being thus left
pennyless, with no protector, I have made my way to Texas hoping to find my
brother.
All
Newspapers in the State and elsewhere, and the good people generally will confer
a favor on a distressed woman and little child who have been dispossessed of
home and kindred by assisting me to find my brother.
Address
me at Honey Grove, Texas, care of E. W. Speairs under whose hospitable roof I
now have shelter after a weary tramp mostly on foot from Missouri, fleeing from
Lincoln despotism.
Matilda Smith.
Jan.
27th, 1862.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 8, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
Newspaper Changes.
The Dallas Herald will be discontinued until the war ceases. The Nacogdoches Chronicle also.
The
Southern Union, at Mt. Pleasant, is discontinued. Mr. Carpenter, the proprietor, having purchased the Jefferson
Herald and Gazette establishment, from which he will hereafter issue the
"Confederate news." We
wish him much success.
Our
late compeers of the Herald and Gazette make a most interesting parting
salutation to their readers. We
wish them a happier fate in the future, than the publication of a village
newspaper.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 8, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
More men!
Col. Locke has forwarded by express, Gen. Van Dorn's call upon the
Governor for men. So prepare to
come out of the dark corners, young gentlemen without business, or families, who
have been holding back. Come out
soon! or we shall have some such publication as the following from
Bexar County.
The
vicinity of Clarksville has done well, and there have been volunteers from other
portions of the County, for the County has four full companies,--all her won, in
the field; and in parts of companies from other counties, has fully another
company, say five companies from Red River; yet it is undeniable, that several
precincts of the County have shirked their duty, and they must come up, or the
finger of scorn will be pointed at them.
[Written for the News.
Ladies of San Antonio:
Unforeseen
circumstances render it necessary for us to lay before you a plain statement of
facts, which will forcibly appeal to that patriotism and generosity ever
distinguishing Texan Ladies.
Col.
Wilcox's appointment to raise a regiment, while most welcome in many respects,
for sincerely do we rejoice that the Government has secured his services,
equally valuable in the hall of Congress, or the army, has yet placed us in an
unenviable position. The heads of
families, and men whose gray hairs would have entitled them to an honorable
repose, are preparing to take up arms, and leave us, with not only helpless
children, but a host of young men for protection. These chivalric sons of the Lone Star, whose robust
appearance affords no indication of their constitutional delicacy, are unable to
join an infantry company, though well aware that no more cavalry can be
received.
In
view of this deplorable state of affairs, we beg your assistance in organizing
some plan for the defence of the young men of this vicinity, who remain home
when their gallant brothers, (we beg the soldiers' pardon for using the term) go
to the war. Let them not fall
victims to the terror, their natural timidity will excite, but pity and assist
them. For ourselves, save in their
cause, we have no fears feeling fully equal to the task of self defence.
Their names shall be furnished to you in a short time through the News.
With the highest respect, your sisters,
The Ladies of Southern Bexar.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 8, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
To the People
of Northern Texas!
From the commencement of the present unnatural war, the undersigned has
been under the impression that it would not be of long continuance.
Events, however, may demonstrate otherwise, within the next sixty or
ninety days. If, within that time,
there are not conclusive indications of its speedy cessation, the undersigned
proposes to obtain authority, and raise, in Northern Texas, from among his
fellow citizens of long acquaintance, a Regiment of Mounted men; of the class
who have not, heretofore felt that their services were imperatively demanded;
and who, like himself, have business interests which should not be lightly
sacrificed, and ties of family, which nothing but the sternest necessity should
sever; but who, when ever it is certain that the war is to be of serious length,
will feel unwilling to withhold themselves or their property from sacrifices
which the highest impulses of human nature demand—the sacrifices which are the
devotional oblations upon the altar of Patriotism.
The undersigned, as he doubts not that thousands of his fellow citizens
do, feels unsatisfied to see others offering their persons to the shock of
battle, and the far more dangerous ordeal of camp diseases resulting from
privation and exposure, while he attends to his private interests; and yet the
necessities of existence, the providing for obligations incurred, and duty to
one's household have repressed, or rather controlled the natural longing, to be
among the foremost in the field.
The
object of the present notice is to induce preparation for the necessity which
may present itself to the settlement of business and the providing of the
necessary equipments. Within sixty
or ninety days much business can be closed up—men of families can make
provisions for their household for a long absence; and without any pressure,
every man, who desires to serve the country, may get ready, if he could
get ready at all. It is desired to
make up a force of sober minded reflective men, as many as possible of mature
age, and to have them extra well mounted and armed, the arms to be a double
barrelled shot gun, two Navy sixes, and a hatchet with a handle fourteen inches
in length, for each man. Men are
desired of sober age; because they will be able to appreciate without persuasion
the necessity of sobriety of habit, order and discipline, and because such a
force, governed by their own rationality, and calm determined patriotism, would
be irresistible, and go into action like the "Ironsides" of Cromwell,
sweeping aside o trampling under, everything in their pathway.
The undersigned will be pleased to communicate with gentlemen in the
several counties of Northern Texas, who may desire to have a place in this
organization, and can make arrangements to suit. It will be difficult to find as many Navy sixes as may be
necessary, and therefore, every one proposing to go, should set about the
procurement of them at once.
The
undersigned proposes to close his own business, with reference to the time
specified, and if the necessity for service continues, will go into service
"For the war."
Charles DeMorse.
Clarksville,
Feb. 8th, 1862.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 8, 1862, p. 3, c. 2
Tallow
Received for dues to the
Standard Office.
February 8th 1862.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 15, 1862, skip to
March 1, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 1, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
The
new flag gotten up in our army on the Potomac, is the St. Andrew's cross, that
is a cross in form of an X. The
flag is nearly square, of deep red, the cross of blue, reaching from corner to
corner, and surrounded with stars.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 1, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
The
best Creole oranges sell in New Orleans at one dollar a hundred, and on the
coast at four dollars a barrel.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 1, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Home Defence.
We think it is all time that a thorough police system should be organized
in our county. Many who have nobly
volunteered in the service of their country, have left their families in an
entirely unprotected state. It is
the obligatory duty of every citizen, who cannot, as others have done, respond
to the calls of their country, by leaving their homes, to unite in concerting
such measures as the exigencies of the times require, and in carrying them into
efficient execution. If this were
done immediately and with effective zeal and vigor, a degree of confidence and
security would be immediately imparted to all.
There does not seem to be a doubt but emissaries from Northern State
prisons are at large through the South. Every man who comes into our county,
unless he can give satisfactory evidence of his good standing as a southern man,
should be dealt with, without hesitation. Will
some of our leading citizens take immediate measures for bringing about what we
reckon as a necessary course at present?
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 1, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
A Prophetic Dream,
by Mrs. Mary Becknell,
of Red River County Tex.
On the 4th of March 1841, I dreamed I was in a large Prairie,
or level plain without improvement or timber as far as I could see, only the
small shanty, or shed, where I was standing apparently alone; about three feet
from me, and immediately before me there was a large bed of bright coals, to my
right a shelf on which was a large pail of water, and in it a long handle goard
[sic] which would hold about a quart of water.
On my right close to me stood the American Eagle about the size of a
large Turky [sic], I thought its feathers were soiled and dirty, all turned to
the head. I thought it looked with
more than human intelligence, but that look was fraught with more than human
love, and utter desolation; about a yard from the Eagle, and directly in front,
there was a low shelf, or plank not more than half a foot from the ground, and
some six inches from the bed of coals, on this plank, or shelf there was a black
heart, the size of a beef's heart, it was perfectly smooth, and as black as
ebony; on the heart lay six gold eggs as large as hen's eggs, and beautifully
engraved to this heart, I thought the Eagle was mysteriously confined, that it
could not move, I was lone as to any connection being there but on the left and
right the plains were covered with men on foot, they were debating some question
I knew not what. As my attention
and sympathy was given to the Eagle that appeared more near than children, or
friends; I gazed on it with heart felt woe, and sorrow, until it fell over as
dead, a man from the party on the right came under the shed, and kicked the
Eagle on the bed of coals, when it began to writhe in pain, I caught it by the
right wing, and drew it off the bed of coals, and reached to the pail of water,
and threw a goard [sic] of water on the Eagle her victuals were all destroyed,
and the water filled her empty body to the craw, she gave one look of
unutterable woe, and fell dead, it appeared as though the elements were shaken,
and a sound sad, and doleful floated through the air, saying the American Eagle!
the American Eagle is slain. The
fate of the Eagle awoke me in pain, for the American's Eagle insulted, and
slain.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 1, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
Camp Lubbock, February 1st, 1862
}
Fayetteville, Arkansas, 2nd
Brigade McCulloch's Division.
}
Friend Welty;
Dear
Sir:--Your kind letter was handed me by the express bearer in good time, and
this morning it affords me much pleasure to fix up according to camp style, a
reply. we have a deep snow on the
ground now, it is about 18 inches deep on level ground and it drifts over one's
head. . . . I wish I could send you a map of the battle of Tus-ten-nah-lah, it
was a hard fought battle. We fought
three or four to one, and charged up a steep mountain to boot. . . It is
generally told through the country, that the Indians whipped Cooper and Sims,
though I do not think such is the case. Sims
did not have a fair chance. He had
none but Indians to back or fight with him.
I reckon his men felt out of place.
It is said, however, that the Indians fought bravely on our side.—On
the 26th the battle was fought.
We camped on the battle ground that night, brought in all our killed and
wounded on the 27th.—We followed them about forty miles, came upon
a small bunch of about 150, and killed some 25 or 30, the balance scattered so
we could follow them no longer. We
returned and camped at the same place we camped the night before, having
collected in the meantime about 500 prisoners, mostly women; about forty
negroes, and more ponies and dogs than you ever saw.
There were some very pretty girls among them.
They wanted to follow us off but we drove them back.
Women look so strange in camps. . . .
I do not get much news to read. I
am busy all the time on some kind of duty.
I have no more to write now. You
must give my love to all the girls, and widows not over thirty.
Direct
your letters to Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Your friend,
John C. Bu[rest torn off]
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 8, 1862, skipped to March
27, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 5-6
Camp Near Van Buren, Arkansas,
}
March 15, 1862.
}
Dear
Sir:--I avail myself of the present leisure moment to drop you a few lines,
believing anything from this direction will not be without interest.
You will doubtless have heard ere this reaches you, that we have met the
enemy, fought and have been whipped, and have made a precipitate retreat to this
place; and many other reports too numerous to mention.
Well!
on the morning of the 4th, we left Boston Mountain, in the
midst of a violent snow storm (which continued until the turn of the day)
en route for Fayetteville. Camping
at night one mile this side, resumed our march.
On the fifth, encamped at Elm Springs, some 15 miles north.
Starting on the sixth, before day, we came in sight of Bentonville, about
nine o'clock, at which place there were lingering, some thousand or more of the
Federal troops, who set fire to all the business houses of the place, and
retired before our advancing columns, some three regiments of Cavalry were
ordered on a scout, in a northern direction, with directions to join the main
body, 6 or 8 miles North East, on the wire road.
Getting in a head of the main body, we were surprised to find ourselves
front to prant [sic?] with the enemy, some four or six thousand strong, who were
also surprised to find us approaching, from an unexpected direction.
They however opened fire on us, with both small arms and cannon to the
discomfiture of some of our men.—Stone's Greer's and one or two of the advance
companies of our regiment headed by McIntosh boldly charged to within forty or
fifty yards of the enemy's line, then filed off to the right out of reach of the
enemy's fire. In this time two or
three of the centre companies of our regiment wheeled directly about, and
commenced a precipitate retreat, to the discomfiture of the entire left, who
vainly endeavored to prevent the retreating mass from passing through their
ranks. From these positions our
entire force commenced a precipitate retreat back to Bentonville, instead of
charging the enemy on the instant, which we could have done successfully, or at
least could have gained their rear, and thus retarded their retreat before our
main force. On reaching Bentonville
we learned that our train force had passed on, and now we heard the booming of
cannons, and also the clatter of small arms which plainly told us the battle was
up. Pushing on, passing trains of
baggage, and laggers hind [sic], we now and then found the bodies of dead men,
who had fallen victims, as our advance came up with the rear of the enemy; and
now we were again on the scene of our late discomfiture, with abundant evidence
of the conflict. But the enemy had
kept up a retreating fight before Price, who pushed them close until night, when
the latter camped for the night, whilst the former continued the march until he
reached a strong position on Sugar Creek, where he commenced fortifying.
On the morning of the 7th, Price, in accordance with concert,
pushed forward to attack the enemy in his position, while McCulloch and McIntosh
disposed their forces a mile or more to the South West, in order to act as
circumstance might require. The enemy had collected his forces at this point, to make a
final stand, to the number of thirty or forty thousand, some 10,000 of which
were mounted.—Price opened fire on the enemy [illegible] cannonade, about 11
o'clock, on the [illegible] of the 7th, which was replied to
[illegible], and presently both parties opened fire with small arms.
The enemy flanking back South West, as was anticipated came in contact
with McCullough's division, which assailed them vigorously, and held the vantage
ground at every point. The right of
our army a part of Young's and Stone's regiment then formed and charged a
battery of [illegible] pieces, which had been run out on the enemy's extreme
left, supported by a strong body of Cavalry, and which had already fired some 4
or 5 rounds on our ranks, with but little result.
The charge was conducted by McIntosh in person, with the commanders of
the several regiments in command of their respective divisions.
Our regiment in front with Col. Sims at the head of his column, bravely
charged the enemy in the very teeth of their pieces, which were plied to their
utmost capacity, making ball and grape shot fly at a careful rate.
Thus our gallant Texians charged an [sic] opened an irretrievable fire
upon the enemy, driving them from their pieces, making many a one bite the dust.
Col. Sims rode directly up, shot one of the gunners off his piece, and
nearly at the same instant received a severe wound in the right fore arm.
The ball entering the underside came out on top just below the elbow,
fearfully shivering both bones. His
horse being no longer manageable plunged through and through the enemy's ranks,
who shot, and cut at him from every side, but he finally succeeded in clearing
their ranks without further injury. while
all this was going on, the left of our regiment had been dismounted, and
stationed in a flanking position, in a skirt of timber, raked the enemy with a
galling fire from our shot guns. So
soon as the field was cleared, the fifth squadron of which I was in command,
hastened forward and hoisted the squadron colors, over the pieces with a shout
of triumph such as Texans only can raise. We
speedily secured the pieces, and were formed again, on foot, in support of a
body of infantry, who had already engaged a strong body of the enemy's infantry
further east, where the contending parties kept up a continual discharge of
small arms, with the loud roaring of the enemy's cannon.
Here it was the brave McIntosh, ordered Col. Hill with his regiment to
charge and take this battery; they refused, when McIntosh himself headed the
column, and led them to the charge; and just as he was leading them to victory,
was shot through the chest, with grape shot, and fell dead on the spot.
His column having no longer the example of their brave leader, fell back,
and thus lost the advantage they had gained.
About this time, McCulloch was shot down on another part of the field,
while reconnoitering the enemy's position.
Up to this time, our arms had been triumphant on all parts of the field,
but losing the guidance of these two brave men, four forces knew not what to do,
and being under strict orders to maintain their several positions at all
hazards, and not to leave them until further ordered, remained for the most part
inactive until late in the evening, when they called off, and left the enemy in
possession of the field, after having repulsed them at every point.
The Louisiana regiment, infantry, having repulsed a strong body of
Federal infantry, eleven times, who [hole in paper] reinforced; but to be re
[hole in paper] our forces had been with [hole in paper] the Federal forces,
with [hole in paper] returned to reinforce the party, which Price had been
battling all the evening, and for whom he was more than a match.
Thus the battle raged, till long after night, when, as by mutual consent,
the strife ceased, to be renewed again by time next morning.
During the night McCulloch's entire command were given to Price, and with
early light, boom! boom!! went the cannon on both sides, followed quickly by small arms
principally in the hands of infantry on both sides whilst mounted troops on both
sides were vigorously posted, as their services might be thought to be needed.
In this condition, the enemy were shut upon all sides, who would
doubtless have run had they the chance.
Just about this time, our ammunition for the artillery gave out, when Van
Dorn ordered a retreat; Price expostulating and insisting with tears they should
continue one hour longer. Under
these circumstances, our columns were put in motion as, it was said, to give a
more favorable position and to prevent the enemy from outflanking us, but which
was in fact, a retreat leaving many of our forces to get away the best they
could and left the field in possession of the enemy, who as subsequent
circumstances show, availed themselves of the first chance to also leave the
field, in the direction of Springfield. Thus
ended one of the hardest contests known to modern times, and what seemed to me
from the amount of powder burnt, to have been sufficient to have extinguished
the race. The next day we sent back
a party with a flag of truce to bury our dead, which are said by parties who
have returned to be 181. The
enemy's loss being variously estimated from 1100 to 2000 in killed. We have a good many missing yet, but some are still coming
in. Many of our men have doubtless
fallen through their own imprudence, by wandering over the field.
None of my company were lost in the fight and only one or two slightly
injured. Three are missing.
Bob Tarlton is among the missing and I fear is taken prisoner. He was seen last on the field on Saturday evening, and was
complaining of a slight hurt he received in a fall from his horse, the day
before. He and Dan Colter were
together; Colter taking care of Tarlton, but a short distance in advance of the
enemy. Jasper Southerland is also
missing. He has not been seen since
Friday early in the day.
I am
more than ever satisfied of the necessity of urgent and strict discipline,
whilst the independent service so popular among our people is ruinous to our
cause. We had thousands wandering
over the field, and country, without any special organization, and who for the
most part were hunting easy places, which tended much to demoralize regular
organization. For this reason, not
more than one half of our forces were available. Whilst owing to a healthier
state of discipline, every man on the enemy's part were available.
Our people must while acting the soldier forego the independence
of the citizen, otherwise they had better stay at home.
This
whole movement was too precipitate and not sufficiently provided for.
Our troops were rushed through on a forced march, day and night, and had
but a precarious subsistence for several days before the fight.
Our regiment was ordered on the 2nd to prepare two days
rations, which they did as well as they could, in the absence of every thing in
the shape of a vessels [sic]. Our
train including tents, and etc. having been left on this side of the mountain. On the third we were ordered to prepare ten day rations, but
failed entirely to get the material out of which to prepare it.
Our train getting up to day, we had the luxury of sleeping under our
tents at night. In this condition
we set out as above, drawing such subsistence as could be had in a country,
already twice sacked. Our men and
horses were actually so fatigued and starved, that they had neither life nor
spirit. For these reasons many of
our men from shear exhaustion, were seen nodding in the lines, while missiles of
death were flying thick around them and while the conflict was almost one
continuous roar, as if the very elements were at war with each other.
We
reached this place on the 12th Inst., and are recruiting ourselves
and horses as well as we can, preparing for another advance.
We lost of our regiment ten killed, and fifteen wounded, all in the
charge on the battery.
Gideon Smith,
Capt. Company [illegible], Sims Reg't
1th [sic] Texas Cavalry, 1st Brigade.
Monday
morning 17th March—Tarlton has come in he was in custody of the
Yankees from Sunday morning until Tuesday night. He says the Federals are fortifying at Cross Hollows about 25
miles north of this place, are about 35,000 strong and are looking for 2,000
more. Phelps made a speech in
Fayetteville last Thursday promising protection to citizens who remain at
home—that he was going through to Texas.
Gid. Smith.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
A Request.
Will some of the good ladies in and about Clarksville be kind enough to
furnish us some lints and bandages for the benefit of the soldiers of Col. Geo.
H. Sweet's Regiment.
These
are articles greatly needed and which we cannot buy. They will be best made of soft cotton or linen.
The bandages should be made from 2 to 3 inches in width and from 5 to
seven feet in length. Those contributing them will please have them left at the
Quarter Masters office in Clarksville, and doing so will receive the thanks of
the medical corps of the Regiment.
Surgeon.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Socora, New Mexico,
}
Feb. 27, 1862.
}
E. H.
Cushing Esq:--Sir: I embrace the
first opportunity to communicate to you and your readers the particulars of a
great fight and victory between Sibley's Brigade and the enemy, under command of
Col. Canby, at Val Verde, or Green Valley, four miles above Fort Craig.
On the
morning of the 19th, we crossed the river to the east side, eight
miles below Fort Craig, and moved up within and opposite of the fort three miles
and camped, being cut off the river.
On the
morning of the 20 we moved on, intending to reach the river above the fort, and
thus get above the enemy and force them out to give us a fight.
But our teams having given out, we were compelled to again make dry camp
all suffering very much for water. At
about 5 o'clock P.M., the enemy approached us, but our artillery being turned
loose upon them, forced them back.
Friday
morning of the 21st Major Pyrom of Baylor's command with two hundred
was sent in advance to find a route to water with two pieces of Teel's
artillery. At 10 o'clock A. M. the
enemy opened their battery on him cutting off his approach to water.
Lt. Col. Scurry with a part of the 4th and 7th, and
Lt. Reiley's battery came up and posted himself on the right of Maj. Pyrom
amidst heavy cannonading. At this
juncture, Col. Tom Green coming up with a part of his Regiment and Lieut. Wood's
battery, taking command and posting companies on the right of Scurry.
The enemy keeping up brisk, and destructive cannonading on the left under
command of Maj. Lockridge and were supported by 300 riflemen, who poured into us
constant and well directed volleys. At
11½ o'clock A.M. Capt. Lang of the
2d Regiment made a charge on the enemy's battery; though a brave and gallant
charge, he was compelled to fall back with severe loss, himself and Lieut. being
very severely wounded.
At 3
o'clock P.M. the enemy are reinforced large bodies of infantry and cavalry with
five pieces of artillery constantly crossing the river in front of us, and
supported by a regiment of U. S. Regulars and also several companies of Denver
City volunteers. So well directed
were the enemy's guns were silenced for over an hour, but our boys were in no
wise disconcerted and each time came back, pouring brisk and deadly volleys into
the ranks of our enemy, and it must be said that the enemy fought with great
coolness and bravery.
At 3½
o'clock p.m. Col. Green ordered a charge 750 men were dismounted, the front
composed of detachments of different commands under Lt. Col. Scurry, Sutton,
McNeil, and Maj. Lockridge, Maj. Raguet of the 1st Regiment, with 250
men composed a part of the 4th, and one company of the 5th;
were ordered to attack the left of the enemy about 1500—were repulsed with
severe loss, and in my opinion this maneuvre displayed great tact, skill and
judgment on the part of Col. Green, for the object was to divert the attention
of the enemy's left, that the charge on the battery might be subject to a less
galling fire. The charges were made
simultaneous, and the battery of seven guns captured and turned upon the enemy
who fled in great confusion.
The
750 advanced upon the enemy's guns whose roar was most deafening.
The guns were gained, and we had it hand to hand, the enemy fighting with
desperation, but they could not long withstand the determined bravery of our
boys.
It was
certainly a desperate attempt, and to me a remarkable result.
The charge was made over 500 yards, and on foot, and it was certainly a
Providential thing that all were not cut to pieces.
[illegible] the enemy had fled, Green's command opened fire on the
enemy's left, who had repulsed Maj. Raguet, who were seized with a panic and
also fled across the river, and so well directed were our guns that the river
were literally dyed with blood. Maj.
Lockridge of the 5th, is killed, Lieut. Col. Sutton, of the 7th,
mortally wounded. Capt. Hoffman of
the 4th, killed, with Major Raguet in his charge.
Lieut. Hubbard, company A, 5th regiment, seriously wounded in
making the charge on the cannon.
We
captured seven pieces with equipage, and other valuable property.
We lose many valuable horses. The
enemy acknowledge the loss of 360 killed, and wounded, among them six Captains
and many Lieuts.
Our
loss 2d regiment T. M. V. Maj. Pyrom's command, 4 killed, 17 wounded, one
missing. Teel's battery, 2 killed,
4 wounded. 4th regiment
T. M. V. Lt. Col. Scurry killed 8,
wounded 45. 5th
regiment, Col. Green; killed 20 wounded 67.
7th regiment, Lt. Col. Sutton killed 2, wounded 26.
Total
killed, 36; wounded, 159; missing 1. Our
strength properly 14000 the enemy's 300, or more.
[sic?]
Many
of our officers and men distinguished themselves.
Green showed himself equal to the occasion, it proved him a great
commander. Adjutant J. W. Sawyers
of the 5th regiment T. M. V., greatly distinguished himself, though a
young officer, he was [torn paper] and brave, and did much to [torn paper]
Sergeant Major Sheppard [torn bottom of page]
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
Rocky Comfort, Ark.
}
Feb. 23, 1862.
}
Mr. Editor—
Dear
Sir:--Col. Locke left at my house a lot of sick soldiers, two of whom have died
at my house and were buried in the volunteer portion of the Grave Yard.
Mr.
May, of Smith county, Texas; Chandlers Company, died 17th of Feb.
1862, at 4 o'clock, in the morning of Typhoid Pneumonia.
He was too far gone to tell anything of friend and relations; he said he
was a foundling, and had neither mother; nor wife or children.—None of the
sick knew any thing about him.—One man of his company stopped and said he
thought he had a wife in Smith county; and followed well digging for a
livelihood.
J. M.
Hurt of Upshur County, Texas, Company (D) or Farp's, died at 9 o'clock, Feb. 21st
1862, of Typhoid Pneumonia.
Have
written to Post Master, Smith county, also to Mr. Hurt's Father.
May
left a good pony, a few old clothes and 35 cts.
Hurt a fine mare, good clothes, pistol and 25 cts.
He was a perfect gentleman, and died happy so far as religion is
concerned, but said he would much rather have died in battle, also remarked that
his brothers would avenge his death.
David Taylor.
Skipped to May 5, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 5, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
New
Branch of the Service.—We learn from the Richmond Dispatch that the government
has determined to inaugurate a new branch in the military service, viz:
infirmary companies, in imitation of the Bavarian army, to remain in the
rear of the line of battle to bear off men when wounded.
They are equipped with appliances for administering relief to the
wounded. In consequence of this establishment, the troops are
hereafter forbidden to leave the field in action to bear off the fallen, which
will be attended to by the infirmaries, whose corps is now being recruited.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 5, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
The Ladies of
Mission Valley
Victoria County.
To the Ladies of Texas.
To our sisters throughout the State of Texas, we send this greeting.
The dark hour in our Country's history is approaching; her peril is
great. Our young men have gone
forth to offer their lives in defence of our homes and our altars.
We feel that the time has come for us to act our part, and if we can meet
with hearty co-operation which we feel assured you will give, we will be able to
do much to perpetuate human liberty. Money
is one of the sinews of war. One
million of the precious metals, at least, is now lying in our caskets; let us
lay them upon the altars of our country. We
propose that each County organize a Society, and immediately collect the
treasure now lying useless, and forward it to our patriotic Governor to be by
him disposed of and the proceeds to be given to the Treasurer of our country.
Let each County as soon as organized report to the Herald.
Bessie
Throop,
Henrietta
Scott,
Sue
Cole,
Jennie Throop,
Fannie
Scott,
Sadie Swan et al.
Papers
throughout the State please copy.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 12, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
Woolen
and Cotton Cards.—We are extremely happy to learn by the New Orleans Crescent,
that J. M. Keep, of Selma, Alabama, has in process of construction a machine for
the manufacture of woollen and cotton cards.
He has shown a specimen of his handiwork and the Reporter has no
hesitancy in pronouncing him fully capable of his undertaking.—The specimen
exhibited was made by the model of his machine, which is to be moulded out of
iron.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 12, 1862, p. 2, c. 5-6
Memphis, April 8th, 1862.
Dear Major.—
We
reached this city without any accident worthy of note, and feel much rested.
I find this city filled with soldiers like Des Arc.
Most of the soldiers were much fatigued when they departed from the
latter place. Price's and McCulloch's old Division having marched from Van
Buren, over a hilly, and wet road. But
the Brigade to which Young's and Sims's are attached, had the day previous only
reached Des Arc and were immediately dismounted—then ordered to cook five days
rations and on the 7th we started to this place.
I have been informed by some of our friends from Texas, that it was
rumored in Texas, that the Texans did not do their duty on that day.
Knowing as much as any of them, being present, having seen, and heard it
all, at least on that side of the mountain where Gen. McCulloch's division was
engaged, I will make only a statement of facts, as to the Texians upon
that day.
The
enemy were stationed at three points on the 1st of March.
On the 4th of March Price's and McCulloch's command commenced
the advance march from the foot of the Boston Mountains; and marched near
Fayetteville and encamped near the 5 miles passing Fayetteville, the two
commands took a left hand road, bearing in the direction of the Elm Springs,
avoiding the Cross Hollows which is on the Telegraphic road which road leads
from Springfield to Fort Smith. One Division of the Fed's was at the Cross Hollows another at
Bentonville in Benton county, Ark., and the main army at Sugar Creek, or the Elk
Horn Tavern, about eight miles distant from Bentonville, and the Cross Hollows.
On the night of the 5th, the army camped at the Elm Springs
where we were exposed all night to the snow, and severe cold—for I think it
was one of the coldest nights I ever experienced.
At 2 o'clock a.m. on the 6th of March, Greer's, Young's,
Sims's, and two Missouri Regiments, under the command of Gen. McIntosh, were
ordered to saddle up, and soon the Bugle sounded to mount, and march—It was so
very cold, that our horses seemed to suffer, though we rode rapidly.
I passed boys that day and night, who were poorly clad, with whom I
deeply sympathized, and it was not in my power to relieve them.
I heard them crying from the severe pain of the cold, but nothing would
have made them fall back, but a direct order from their commander.
Fortunately for the command, about 10 o'clock on the same day, the Sun
began to shine brightly, and soon the clouds were dispelled and the piercing
winds ceased to trouble us. We
reached Bentonville on that day about 1 o'clock p.m. at which place Seigel had
his command. The Infantry marched by another, and nearer road, and was
designed, I have since heard, to cut off Gen. Seigel. The Cavalry to start them from Bentonville, and the Infantry
to attack them in front, between Bentonville, and Sugar Creek.
But the Infantry did not reach their point soon enough, and the commander
and men, had to witness their best laid plans foiled by the enemy.
For no sooner did old Seigel see the rebels advancing, than a hasty and
rapid retreat was ordered which was covered by two pieces of cannon, and
Cavalry. Greer's Young's and Sims's
Regiments attacked the rear of Seigel's command, which was 10,000 rank and file,
hoping the Infantry would bring on the engagement in front. Our men firing upon them, and they upon ours, until late in
the evening, without much damage to either.
Some ten or twelve men were wounded on that day—none killed, except S.
Moses killed which was all the injury McIntosh's command sustained.
Almost exhausted from hunger, and labor, for none had eat any thing since
the evening of the 5th of March, we encamped, Artillery, Cavalry, and
Infantry, on Little Sugar Creek, about 12 miles from the latter ground on the 7th.
The
weather by this time had become very mild, at least comparatively so; and at 1
o'clock a.m., on the 7th, the whole army was ordered to move.
Our picket guards had reported that the enemy were concentrating on the
Big Sugar Creek, which runs between two high mountains, and on the top of the
mountain. That proved to be a
mistake, for one part of their command was on one side of the mountain, and one
on the other, or one on the east, and the other on the west side.
So Gen. Price was assigned the position of attacking them on the East
side, marching in their rear and then South on the Springfield and Fayetteville
road or more familiarly known as the Telegraph road.
Gen. Price is a soldier, statesman, and patriot. He and his men drove the enemy from their position on that day
they falling back to the top of the mountain; and at its bases, Price with his
command camped at their commissary store, which was the Elk Horn Tavern.
Gen.
McCulloch was to attack the enemy, on the east side of the mountain, one mile
and a half distant from the Elk Horn Tavern.
The country was so mountainous that it would not permit the enemy to
engage all their forces advantageously; for they must have had 30,000.
Gen. McCulloch ordered his Cavalry to march in advance of the Infantry
and Artillery. The two commands
were soon divided. it was then
about 11 o'clock a.m. We were
marching the direction in where all supposed the enemy to be.
A halt was ordered. Col.
Stone's regiment was placed on the left, Greer's remained in the rear.
When Young's & Sim's Regiment, Brook's Battalion, and Stand Watie's
Indian regiment were ordered to march to a point of woods about one half a mile
from us. These regiments had been
formed into fours and were marching in solid column. They were then marching through a field, and about the time
that they reached half way to the point of woods, from our right, the cannon
told the tale that the Fed's were near, and that we had been deceived.
The [illegible] were on our left, Price's army was on our left, and the
impressions throughout the command, was that the enemy were there in our front,
or to the left. To have fallen
back, would have resulted in destruction, and nothing was left but to charge the
Battery, which was done successfully. It
was not made in any form, but the boys yelled like so many fiends, or wild
Indians, which caused the Fed's to think our number was much larger than it ever
had been. The Infantry, and Cavalry seemed to take a panic at the
desperate charge and deserted their Battery.
Had they stood firm those regiments which made that charge could have
been ruined. Col. Sims was wounded,
while gallantly leading his men to victory.
Capt. Nicholson of Young's regiment was also wounded.
Young's regiment had about 15 men wounded; none killed.
The Fed's can't stand a charge, if properly sustained.—They never
charge. You can imagine the confusion which succeeds a triumph of
that kind; and it was some time before the regiment could again be organized.
Soon after that Battery had been taken, over towards the base of the
mountain, we saw the Infantry, and Artillery approaching.
Soon our Infantry commenced upon them—then the Artillery, until the
fight became general. They fought
one hour, and I could tell from the triumphant yells of our troops, that they
were giving the Fed's particular Jesse. Right
there the pride of Texas, & the South fell.
Ben McCulloch had been shot by a sharpshooter.
Both parties seemed to be resting; and up to that time, Gen. McIntosh did
not know that McCulloch had been killed. I
met McIntosh upon the field. He
asked where is my Cavalry? I told
him where two regiments were. He
then asked me where Gen. McCulloch could be, saying that he had not seen him
since early in the engagement. He
then directed me to go down to the field where all the Cavalry were, and bring
them there. I did so.
Three regiments which had made this charge, had been dismounted by order
of Gen. McIntosh, to support Capt. Hart's Battery, which was then unprotected.
The enemy's Battery was trying to dismount Hart's Battery, and Hart's
that of the enemy. It was important
to both sides; to have those Batteries there, for the cannonading was so heavy
upon each other, that they could not fire upon our Infantry' who were then
fighting on the left of the enemy's Battery.
McIntosh left us dismounted, with orders to wait for further orders. His plan was I know to take the dismounted men over where the
Infantry were engaged, if Hart's Battery was not attacked and all were surprised
that no orders came. One of his
Aid's was with us. But Gen.
McIntosh for whom I had prophesied so brilliant a future, fell at the head of
his old regiment, and two others, while making a charge upon an enemy greatly
superior in numbers. Stone's,
Greer's, Young's and Sims's regiments, and Crump's Battalion, were the only
Texas troops engaged that day. Col.
Stone's regiment protected our baggage train.
I took about 1000 men commanded by Gen. Green of Mo. to protect this
train. The enemy aimed to burn it.
General McIntosh's plans were never effected. McCulloch had fallen first, and he did not know it.
Gen. Pike who should have taken command after McIntosh had fallen, was
the only man on the field who was the least alarmed, and he gave no
orders.—Col. Churchill's regiment, (now Gen. Churchill,) did not move after
they reached the field. Like many
others I could mention—all waited for orders.
Texians have much to do, for much is expected of them; but upon
the 8th, they did every thing they were directed to do; and the
little feuds which existed between McCulloch and Price, should never breed bad
feelings. The animosity of those
two men spread through both Divisions of the army.—Let the friends of Texians
be not alarmed—they will sustain themselves.
McCulloch's and McIntosh's fall was one of the falls of war, the
misfortune of which we have had to bear. McCulloch's
Division reported on the morning of the 8th to Van Dorn—determined
to avenge the death of McCulloch; but to the surprise of the whole army, a
retreat was ordered. All felt, in
the language of Lincoln that no body was hurt.
The reasons are given in Van Dorn's report.
McCulloch had on the field about 9000 men—4000 were engaged—the
others had no orders. When in rear
of Hart's Battery, we had to lie on the ground for two hours, to keep the shot
and shell from the enemy's Battery, from reaching us.
We camped in one half of a mile of the battle field, and few knew that
our general had been killed. All
thought strange that we received no orders during the day.
The Fed's say to our prisoners who have escaped, that they were whipped;
and on the 8th they intended to raise the white flag. They did not even follow us.
Texas is in no danger; they will never come there.—They are
concentrating all their forces upon the Valley of the Mississippi.
Yours truly,
Dixie.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 12, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
Why New Mexico Was Invaded.
With the exception of forts Union and Craig, Gen. Sibley's army has
possession of every point of any military importance in New Mexico. In Arizona our sway is undisputed. Col. Canby, with his force, is shut up in fort Craig, and cut
off from all communication, so that his surrender, it may be presumed, is but a
question of time. Fort Union is
very strongly garrisoned, and in good condition in every respect, but our forces
will soon invest it also. All this
has been accomplished by an army small in number, but in every respect one of
the best that ever won the victory. Why
we have sent such an army as this into the far distant west, to conquer a
country disposed, at least, but indifferently to our cause, is thus well
answered by the Houston (Texas,) Telegraph.
Prominent
among the schemes of our enemies, has been so surround us with "a cordon of
free territory, and let slavery sting itself to death."
Suppose, now, we succeed in beating back our invader; and force him to
acknowledge our independence after a long and desperate struggle.
That simply done, leaves us, with reference to this "cordon"
matter, just where we were before, and with the ground in possession to carry
out the scheme as well as the revenge rankling in his heart to push him to
superhuman exertions to accomplish his object.
Our territory would be our own, but by far too limited in extent for the
success of our social system. We
should be surrounded by people whose every interest would be advanced by our
injury.
It was
to prevent this that Mr. Davis set on foot the move he did for the conquest of
New Mexico, and entrusted it to Gen. Sibley.
We do not presume that either Davis or Sibley looked to see our armies
welcomed by the people. If they
could produce a favorable impression, it was to be desired, but whether they
could nor not, the conquest must be made; or our liberties would be but half won
with our independence acknowledged. Nor
is this all. The conquest of New
Mexico opens the way to that portion of the Pacific coast that affiliates with
us in sentiment. It is the entering
wedge to the breaking off from the United States of all of that coast we desire.
It also is the opening scene of our manifest destiny.
Let us
then hear less of the "extravagance of sending an army a thousand miles to
conquer a country not worth having." Let
us [torn off] that Sibley's army will be fully supported and that the
Confederate flag will be not only [torn off] but most firmly supported in the
region of New Mexico.
Skipped to May 26, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
Among
the many slanders about me circulated here, I have been informed this morning
that one is handed round by some Gentlemen to the effect that I was trying to
get another wife, in the Choctaw Nation. It
seems to me that my position here, with a family, and home ought to be
sufficient with Gentlemen to justify them to have condemned such petty slander.
I here say to all good meaning men (gentlemen,) that this with the many
other circulations of slanderous tone by some unknown lying scoundrels, are base
and unfounded lies and hope gentlemen will do me the justice to treat them as
such. I have heretofore considered
them and their authors, beneath my notice, but for my friends should still do
so, and such should be their treatment by gentlemen every where.
W. H. Gill.
no.18—2ts.
June 7, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 14, 1862, p. 1, c. 2-3
From Santa Fe.
Special Correspondence of the Houston Tel.
Santa Fe April 10
Ed
Tel.,--From the day we left Mesilla all eyes were strained to get a peep at
Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico. After travelling over the roughest
mountain country you ever saw, for more than two hundred miles, we have at last
reached the long looked for place, 2d day of April.
Imagine our
astonishment! Instead of a fine city, a group of mud cabins--instead of
neatness and beauty, loathsomeness and filth,--instead of intelligence, the
grossest ignorance. What a capital for a great nation.
On the 4th we
took quarters in the city of Santa Fe. There are few friends of the South
here. The population are mostly Mexicans.
Governor
Canby fled before us. Judge Benedict, of the Supreme Court, and in short
all the noted characters left. Judge Beard, of this Territory, was as true
a southern friend as we found. He proved it by his acts.
Gen. Canby's
residence is here. I have seen his accomplished lady--and a lady she is,
too, in the true sense of the word, with as warm a Southern heart as throbs in
any bosom. Mrs. Canby was born and raised in South Carolina; and has all
the hospitality, as well as the true spunk of Carolinians. When our sick,
and wounded, reached town, she was prompt to visit the hospital, and did all in
her power to make the sufferers all comfortable. Oh, how angel-like this
visit to our care and toil-worn and suffering boys.
She says that
Gen. Canby is only fighting for pay; that he has no means of support except his
office, and hard as it is, he must fight to earn a support of his family.
Col. Sm.
Scurry, with the first regiment, Maj. Pyrom with Baylor's regiment, and Major J.
S. Shropshire with four companies of the second regiment, went out twenty two
miles north of this place to Glorietta Canon, where they came upon the enemy
suddenly. The enemy opened a cross fire into their ranks, when the command
was immediately given by our officers to retreat. We then retreated.
The next day our men met them upon the same ground and whipped them, winning a
glorious victory. We lost 3_(?) [note: second number not
readable, question mark in parentheses part of quotation] killed, and as many
wounded. Maj. Shropshire and Maj. Raguet of the first regiment were
killed; Captain D. W. Shannon with twenty of his men, were taken prisoners;
Capt. Wells, with forty of his men, Lieut. Rhone of Capt. Dan Ragsdale's
company, were likewise captured by the enemy. Several of the men have
returned to their respective companies on parole, and some have been exchanged.
After the
fight was over, and while our forces were on the field, one thousand of the
enemy's cavalry slipped around to where our wagons were and fired and burnt them
up, destroying every thing, belonging to the above named commands.
Col. Scurry
now in command, we were marched back to Santa Fe. The men had now been
thirty hours without food, and had lost every vestige of their clothing, &c,
all the goods that could be found in Santa Fe were appropriated, and the poor
boys tolerably clothed again.
We have a
great deal of sickness at this time. The whole brigade only numbers about
1700 and they have been so near run to death over mountains that they are
scarcely fit for duty, but with this small army we could hold our own if we had
provisions. The enemy cannot drive us out, but famine soon will do it.
Mr. Editor, I
have given you faithfully the details of our march to this place, and the
transactions to date, now allow me to give you a few reflections. The
Territory of New Mexico is utterly worthless. It never will be the abode
of civilized man. This is out of the question. The cost of our expedition
will be more than four such territories could be worth. Our expedition has
therefore been a wild goose chase, that will never benefit any one. The
naturalist is the only character that could be benefitted by travelling
here.--Our army cannot be subsisted here, and the enemy has only to wait a few
weeks till famine runs us out, to possess the country quietly again.
You may think
my notions strange, but my dear sir, I fear before this reaches you, we will be
compelled to quit this country, and had I time, I could convince you or any
intelligent person that all the above conclusions are correct. When an
opportunity presents I will write you again, and rely upon it, I will not mis-represent
anything.
Very respectfully yours, W.H.S.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 21, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
A
large stock of Cotton Cards for sale by several houses in Shreveport.
Note: About
this time, the Standard starts being published sometimes weekly, sometimes every
other week.
July 5, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 12, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Army Express.
Mr. Henry Bingham, an old citizen of Hopkins County, known to us for the
past eighteen or twenty years, is a regular carrier of letters accredited by our
officers and men. He will be at
Clarksville on the 15th, and at Marshal on the 20th of
every month, and will deliver letters at the main army, wherever that may be.
The charge is fifty cents per letter in Confederate, or any current
money.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 26, 1862, August 2, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], August 2, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
In the
great battle near Richmond some Confederate soldiers were under arms for six
days on the battle field. They
stood in line until they dropped asleep or fell from sheer exhaustion.
During the long hot days and in the watches of the night, many of the
ladies of Richmond were seen passing up and down the lines with baskets,
pitchers, and pails, giving the soldiers coffee, or food, and encouraging them.
While the shells were hurling through the air, and "the bravest held
his breath for a time," fair women moved about, bringing water to the
thirsty, food for the famishing, and smiling through their tears, told the
soldiers to be of good cheer. Were
not such women worth fighting for?—True Democrat, July 17th.)
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], August 2, 1862, p. 2, c. 3-4
Hdqrs. 15th Regt. Texas Cavalry, }
Batesville July,
1862. }
Editor True Dem.
Dear Sir--I
send you a report of a scout made by my command on the 8th inst. which you are
at liberty to publish, if you please, for the benefit of interested friends in
Texas, among whom are your readers.
Very truly yours
Geo. H. Sweet,
Col. Com'dg.
--------
Hdqrs. 15th Regt. Texas Cavalry,
}
Batesville, Ark., July 12 1862. }
Capt. Hart, Ass't Gen'l.
Brig. Gen. Rust--
Sir:--I have the honor to report the result of a scout by a portion of my
command, consisting of one hundred and fifty one men, on the 8th inst.
Learning
about 10 o'clock, a.m. of that day that a body of the enemy, said to be 258
strong were coming down from the direction of Salem, in Fulton county, en route
for Jacksonport, via Sulphur Rock, and Orient ferry, on Black river.
I immediately ordered a forward movement of a portion of my command, having it
in view to take the lower road leading from Batesville to Jacksonport and to
intercept the enemy and cut him off from the ferry.
The command
was very soon put in motion and proceeded as rapidly as the excessive heat of
the weather, and the jaded condition of our horses would permit; but
notwithstanding all my exertions, the enemy passed the point where I hoped to
intercept him, before I reached it, and made good his retreat to the
ferry. Determined not to be completely foiled, I concluded to follow him,
and give him battle, though I knew I should have to fight a largely superior
force to my own, in point of numbers. I believe I could come upon him
suddenly as to completely surprise him, & perhaps to effect a complete
victory before he could fairly recover from the shock. To effect this, I
made the following disposition of my forces: Capt Thos. J. Johnson, my
quartermaster, was assigned at his own request, to the command of ten men, as an
advance picket, to keep well in advance, until we should near the enemy, when
all were to move nearly together. Next to Capt. Johnson was placed Capt.
A. Faulkner, in charge of the rifles and sharpshooters and after these, the main
body led by myself.
Being anxious
to make the fight before dark we moved with all possible speed, and about half
an hour before sunset, came upon what was supposed to be the enemy's
pickets. Capt. Johnson captured one of them; the other escaped. It
turned out, however, that the enemy had no pickets out, and that we were right
on the main body. A charge was immediately ordered by the advance, and
executed with telling effect. Capt. Faulkner followed with his command, in
a sweeping gallop, the main body moving close behind him. Unfortunately
for us, we had to charge down a lane, and could only move for [sic] abreast; and
before the main body could gain position, both our advance, (including Capt.
Faulkner's rifles) and the enemy became enveloped in such a cloud of dust and
smoke from the fire of our guns that for a few minutes, it was impossible to
distinguish friend from foe. This was most fortunate for the enemy.
he was thus given time to rally. I immediately galloped to the front to
ascertain against what point to direct my column. I found that nearly all
the enemy's force on the north side of the river (a considerable portion had
previously crossed the river,) was put to flight, except a few who had taken
shelter behind some old building and trees, and some who had taken position
under cover of a train of wagons which almost completely blocked up the road
near the ferry. I ordered a charge for the purpose of driving these squads
from their hiding places, whence they were deliberately firing on our
advance. By this time, that portion of the enemy on the opposite side of
the river, having recovered from the panic, had formed in line of battle, and
was pouring a galling fire on our entire line--a fire which was particularly
severe on the advance of the main body which, under command of Capt. Sanders,
had already been ordered up to the support of the rifles. Notwithstanding
this severe fire, the first squadron came into position in fine order, and
commenced delivering its fire, on the enemy on the opposite side of the river,
200 distant. I soon found that this was too long a range for our shot
guns, and ordered a charge over the hill right down next to the river, where a
large number of the enemy was secreted under a bluff close to the waters
edge. This charge I attempted to lead in person; but as my command moved
in front it was thrown into some disorder by the rifles, who had gotten into
confusion; and completely blocked up the passage. At the same time my
horse was killed under me, and before order could be restored, the entire
command had fallen back 200 yards. I was still on foot, when Capt.
Sherwood offered me a seat on his horse behind him, which I accepted until we
both came up with the command, where I obtained another horse, and endeavored to
rally the men; but the enemy were now pouring a perfect shower of balls upon my
broken and confused columns, and I soon found all attempts to reform under such
a fire impracticable. I therefore ordered a retreat beyond the range of
the enemy's guns; where after some difficulty, I succeeded in restoring order,
and reforming. By this time I had learned from the prisoner captured that
we had been fighting the whole, or nearly the whole of the 5th Kansas regiment,
and was satisfied, also from the reception we had met, that the odds of numbers
against us was so great, and such the enemy's advantage of position, it would be
imprudent to renew the attack, and hence continued the retreat.
Our loss in
the engagement was seven men killed, and seven wounded, besides some others so
slightly as not to be reported. Two of the men are badly wounded, but I
believe all will recover. We brought off all our wounded, except private
Jones, who was accidentally shot as we went down, and left at a house half a
mile north o the battle ground.
It is
impossible to obtain an accurate account of the enemy's loss as he was left in
possession of the field, and would not allow any citizens to visit the scene of
conflict until all his dead had been buried, and his wounded carried off.
Some of the men acknowledged to the citizens of Jacksonport a loss of twenty
five killed and like number wounded. There was above forty horses without
riders when the enemy passed through Jacksonport on the following
morning. Besides, the night after the engagement, the enemy
destroyed nearly all his train and camp, and garrison equippage, and evidently
left in haste. From these facts I am convinced that he considered himself
roughly handled, and dreaded another attack.
Early on the
morning after the engagement I dispatched Capt. James E. Moore, with a flag of
truce, to bury our dead; but he met Lieut. Dougherty, who had been ordered to
fall back, the enemy, returning from the field where he had been to bury the
dead, after he found the enemy had left.
I mentioned
with feelings of gratitude the gallant conduct of Capt. A. Faulkner, who had two
horses shot under him, whilst rallying his men to the charge. Capt. V. P.
Sanders and Capt. Thos. E. Sherwood also displayed signal coolness and bravery;
as did also Lieuts. Doughtery, Stewart, and Banister, the last named being
severely wounded in both arms--his right arm badly shattered by a minnie
ball. Many of the privates exhibited great coolness and determination in
the fight, are deserving of special mention: but where all did so well it
would be invidious to distinguish. Let the gallant conduct of the brave
bring the blush of shame when they remember it, to the cheeks of those few who
sneaked away without firing a gun.
It is with a
sad heart that I have to report the loss of Capt. Thos. J. Johnson of my
staff. He fell, shot through the heart whilst gallantly leading his brave
little band in a most desperate charge. He was brave almost to a
fault. I trust his country will do honor to his memory.
We captured
two prisoners--one soldier and one teamster; also a blacksmith's forge with a
complete set of tools, horse shoes, etc.
I regret, for
the sake of humanity, to be compelled to report the barbarous conduct of the
enemy in killing private Jones, the wounded man left at the house on the road,
as before stated. After my command had retired from the field, a small
party of the enemy's cavalry came out on the road in the direction we had taken
and finding Jones; deliberately shot him in the head, although he had not been
in the fight, and was wholly unable to make any resistances. Can such an
enemy prosper? God forbid it.
Geo. H. Sweet,
Col. Com'dg.
M. Shelby Kennard,
Adjutant.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], August 9, 1862, August 16, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], August 23, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Clarksville,
Texas.
August 18th. 1862.
To the citizens of Dallas, Denton, Johnson, Kaufman,
Limestone, Tarrant, Wise, and neighboring counties:
I am
specially detailed to procure clothing for the men composing Col. Sweet's
regiment of the Army of Arkansas. I
can make no stronger appeal in their behalf, than a simple statement of the
fact, that they have voluntarily, and cheerfully abandoned all the comforts and
enjoyments of home to meet the enemy. That
in the brief, and brilliant career of the Southern army, no regiment has borne
itself more gallantly than this.
They
have been, and are still willing to sacrifice all which is dear to man—even
life itself, for the glorious cause of the Confederacy.
Under no circumstances will they ever dishonor the great State of Texas.
Winter
is approaching rapidly, our march will probably be northward.—An unaccustomed
cold, and inhospitable climate will surround them. They therefore earnestly ask that they may not be exposed to
unnecessary suffering, and confidently appeal to the patriot citizens at home to
furnish them with clothing as comfortable as possible.
That
every facility, and convenience may be furnished, I have designated ___________
of Denton, _________ of Dallas, _____________ of Johnson, _________ of Kaufman,
__________ of Limestone and ___________ of Wise county.—Who will receive all
clothing designated for this regiment and for which I will furnish immediate
transportation.
G. B. Pickett,
Lieut. Col. Sweet's Reg't C.S.A.
Skip to September 6, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 6, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Beef Market!
The undersigned has established a permanent Market at Longe's shop, for
the purpose of supplying the citizens of Clarksville, and vicinity with fresh
beef. The families of those who are
in the army, who have not the means of purchasing meat will be furnished by
me.—I shall be on hand every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, and
Saturday evening.
I
solicit such patronage as will enable me to continue a great convenience to the
community.
F. Curry.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 13, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We
some time ago suggested that "hog, hominy, and homespun" constituted
the actual necessities of life.
Some
of our friends in the city smiled incredulously at the idea, and others call it
impracticable. We make use of the
expression understandingly, and that too after seeing a practical illustration
of it in other parts of the Confederacy. The
people of the interior of Texas have, since then, begun to put it into true
practice, and it is well they have. At
the present moment there are not enough of imported goods in the State to clothe
one-fifth of its people, and not enough of imported provisions to feed one in a
hundred. The time must come in the
progress of events, and that too very shortly, when the amount of dry goods in
all the stores will not clothe one in a hundred of its population.
What then? Homespun; and the
sooner people learn to make it, the better for them.
Hog and hominy—a rough expression for home produce—we have all come
to. Let the people put into
operation practical Independence. If
the country will not subsist the population, it is not worth living in. We are not worthy of our liberties, if we cannot conquer
them—the country is not worthy of us if it cannot support us.—[Houston
Telegraph.]
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 13, 1862, p. 1, c.
4-5
Summary: Copy of General Order No.
7, Gen. Bee, Head-Quarters Sub. Mil. Dist. of the Rio Grande, San Antonio, July
21st 1862 which outlines duties of Provost Marshals throughout state
of Texas, including issuing passports; gives form of passport
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 13, 1862, p. 2, c.
1-2
Arlington House,
}
Richmond, Va. August,
}
24th, 1862.
}
Dear Standard:--
We
have been here nearly two weeks though time passes without much note, except the
daily feeling that it is passing without bringing adequate results.
We arrived here expecting to get away in a week or ten days, and I
commenced operation the very night of our arrival, by seeing a member of the
Cabinet, and occupying his time until nearly 2 o'clock next morning.
But with every practical effort it is not possible to get along fast,
while one can get so few opportunities to see the higher officials, resulting
from the great pressure upon them from thousands who want something
done.—There are continued obstacles to progress if one wants much done; and I
have determined to get every thing desirable done t this time, and not to
running to and fro. I find the
President sensible, affable, and disposed to assist; the Secretary the same; but
our Quarter-Master finds continual difficulties in the way of getting all we
want for the regiment, and I have to remove those obstacles by appeals to the
Sec'r of War, and the President, and this takes time.
I am determined to have all we are entitled to, and more than most get,
before we return home. I have been
engaged for two days past in a fruitless effort to coax some Revolvers out of
the Navy Department, assisted by a letter from the President, RECOMMENDING it,
and the friendly concurrence of the Naval Ordnance officer, but I have failed,
and shall to-morrow make a requisition for the money to purchase, which the
President has told me I shall have. The
army in the field in this State, is without tents, and there are more here; but
I think I can get some on the way home. I
shall have to hunt up my shot guns in the Southern Arsenals—there are none
here.
We
have been expecting here daily the news of battle, but the enemy has fallen back
by the strategy of our Generals, however, we have got the blackguard Pope
encircled, and if we do not bag his whole force, he will be lucky.
Two lines of our army are between him and McClellan, the latter having
abandoned James River altogether. Pope
is already backing out of his intended outrages upon our peaceful citizens; he
does not like the reprisals we have commenced.
Richmond
is full of people; an immense throng, and prices of most articles are fabulous.
Beef 60 cents per pound, butter 7c; Green tea ten to twelve dollars per
pound; Coffee 2½ dollars by the sack; Lemons 1,25 cents each.
I had arranged for a ride to the Chickahominy battle ground to-day,
(horse hire $8 per day,) but deferred it on account of threatened rain.
General T. J. Chambers, who had charge of the 4th Texas, in
the fight of the 27th in the desperate charge upon the enemy's hill
battery, was to be our guide. Druey's
[sic] Bluff, or as the enemy terms it Fort Darling, is another point for
visitation. It is said to be impregnable, and I suppose is not likely to
be attacked—Took a look last Sunday at the Virginia No. 2.
She will cut her way through, wherever she goes.
Richmond is invaluable as a manufactory of arms and munitions of war.
We make nearly everything here important to service.—The manufacture of
Percussion Caps, for small arms and cannon, is quite ingenious, and interesting.
Since we have been here long trains of artillery, and army wagons, and
some troops have passed through, on their way to Stonewall.
Richmond, though a beautiful city, is quite unacceptable to most
strangers, from the unceasing extortions which have infected the moral
atmosphere of the place. The extent
and universality border upon a general system of pillage.
The hotels charge hugely, and live quite indifferently.
A few days since we moved up out of the throng, to this one; which
although on Main Street is comparatively secluded, quiet, genteel and
comfortable. We have a few members
of Congress here, and they are scattered through hotels and boarding houses all
around. All our Texas members are
present, and in good health, and as a delegation have a respectable standing.
They all take the proper interest in public affairs.
I have met them all, also Dr. Mitchell, Judge Hanley, and Judge Batson of
the Arkansas delegation. The
standing of Judge Reagan here, as a laborious and intelligent Agent is good.
The Secretary of War stands well, and is certainly an intelligent and
most agreeable public Agent. Mr.
Mallory, the Secretary of the Navy is not especially popular or influential; and
Mr. Memminger, the Secretary of Treasury is most decidedly unpopular, and I
think probable [sic] deservedly so. He
seems to have an especial pique at Texas, and will be apt to get some hard rubs
before long. He frequently says
that Texas has done less, and claimed and received more than any other State in
the Confederacy. As this is simply
untrue, he will be likely to hear more of it.—I think that he, and another
Jewish functionary here, have very little favor for the Southwest.
Col. Myers the Quartermaster General seriously informed our Quartermaster
yesterday, that he would not give an order for anything to go west of the
Mississippi. This was in answer to
our requisition for tents, accompanied by a request for an order on Columbus.
But whenever this Hebrew gentleman gets in our way, I intend to put him
out of it by a little leverage from Headquarters.
The truth is that the unavoidable delays incident to the mass of work to
be accomplished, are increased by the dog in the manger nature in some of the
subordinate officials, and there had better be a change, beginning in the
Quartermasters department. The
commissary department is so managed as to cause little or no complaint.—I have
found the officials of the Ordinance and naval ordinance bureaus, of the
Adjutant Generals and the minor officials of the Treasury Department quite
agreeable.
I find
here Gen. T. J. Chambers, Col. W. R. Scurry; Ebenezer Allen; W. D. Miller, Col.
W. P. Lane, Col. Reilly; Judge Terrell; Maj. Truitt of Shelby, Capt. Buford of
Hopkins, and others known to many of our people.
Clothing
is enormously high in Richmond—Four the only article of necessity
comparatively cheap. Flour is worth
$12 per barrel manufactured here by mills which are, I believe unsurpassed in
the world, in capacity, and quality of manufacture.
I am
somewhat disappointed in the Washington monument; the design is imposing but the
great equestrian statue surmounting it does not fill my expectation—it is
hardly THE Washington; and the form of the horse is not faultless.
Still the general effect is grand. The
Capitol grounds never fail to impress the beholder with a sense of their natural
beauty.—The grass lots are now much tramped by soldiers and loungers, but the
locality is full of beauty. As we
approached the bridge over the James river coming into the city, the Capitol as
of yore proudly loomed up before us, and the flag of the Confederacy spread out
to the breeze from the staff surmounting the roof, stirred the blood like the
sound of the trumpet. With a
powerful field glass the view from the roof of the Capitol is very fine. You
see the country all around; and on the opposite side of the river the noblest
battle fields for armies of a hundred thousand each, that the eye ever looked
at. Down the winding James is the
pontoon bridge—opposite is Belle Isle—a little elevation around which the
river divides; and on the summit of the isle, the white tents of the Federal
prisoners. The James around it,
comes along over shallow rock, and between others visible to the eye—the river
having the appearance of some broad mountain creek.
Also in sight, all around, the earthworks thrown up by the State
authorities, for the defence of the city.
Richmond
has many tasteful and attractive residences, commencing immediately west of this
house where I write, and extending over considerable area of ground, just enough
broken to set each block or two of buildings in tasteful relief, and give
variety to the prospect. I confess
that I like the site very much. I
have not been able to get out into the country yet.
Theatres
are in full blast here now. If they
could not live in these times, their chance in other times would be bad indeed,
and they are crowded to density every night—money being as free in its course,
as water from a bold Spring.
On our
way here, I stopped in Columbia, S. C. a part of one day, and was much pleased
with the place. It looks old
fashioned, but has beauty of site, handsome residences, and a great deal of
style. Not the least in
consideration, it has a great deal of feminine beauty, of which Richmond has
very little. The great wide streets
of Columbia, with the rows of trees on each side, and the row of trees in the
middle, constitute a feature of beauty.
We were gratified to find a Texas neighbor (Anderson Moores, Esq.) at
Columbia; it gave us a home like feeling to meet him.
From Ridgeway, (25 miles
north of Columbia,) clear through South Carolina, the red lands had a pleasant
aspect. We passed through Raleigh
N. C. without stopping long enough to leave the vicinity of the Cars.
The
trip here was exceedingly laborious and in great part disagreeable.
The cars are oppressively overloaded.
It is a continual rush for seats, and the crowd creates unpleasant heat.
We avoided this in part by taking the route through Columbus and Macon to
Augusta and then the route by Columbia and Raleigh instead of the more direct
route by Wilmington; but as we neared Richmond it became almost intolerable.
We are in hope that the cars will be less crowded on our return.
We are satisfied that the Lynchburg and Chattanooga route would be more
pleasant, but for the purchase of necessities for service, it will be preferable
to go to Atlanta—perhaps to Charleston.
Our
friends Gould, and Corley leave on the 26th and will probably bear
this letter.
As Ever C. DeM.
P.S.
Our
regiment is accepted as Cavalry, and the regimental staff commissioned.
The Secretary of war has decided, upon the direct application of Col.
Walter P. Lane, that no general has a right to dismount troops raised as cavalry
or Partisans. It can only be done by order of the War Department.
The President says we are quite as likely to retain our horses under
acceptance as cavalry, as if we were accepted as Partisans, and the Secretary of
War has already applied to Congress to give him authority to Brigade Partisans;
and treat them in all respects as other troops, leaving them no distinctive
advantages whatever.
C. DeM.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 20, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Quarter Masters Notice!
Persons having relatives & friends in Gen. Cooper's Brigade or
Colonel A. M. Alexander, or Stephen's regiment, wishing to send clothing, or any
other article necessary for their comfort, can do so by applying to me at
Clarksville, or by depositing their bundles with W. W. Russell Bonham or Capt.
C. Jackson, at Sherman Texas.
J. W. Russell,
Capt. A. A. QM.
Ind. Dept.
Clarksville
Sept. 6th 1862.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 20, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
From the Indian Nation.
On Tuesday morning last Capt. J. L. Randolph received a dispatch from Ft.
Cobb to the effect that there were four hundred federals with fifteen hundred
Indians, at Washita Agency, and that the Chickasaw Battalion stationed at that
place had to fall back to Ft. Arbuckle.
We do
not doubt the correctness of the dispatch, and presume Randolph's battalion will
be ordered immediately. We may
expect warm work in that quarter at an early day.
If the vandals are not met and repulsed, they will, in all probability,
descend upon the frontier of Texas where they will commit their
depredations—such as have ever characterized their conduct in every portion of
the south where they have had access.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 27, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 4, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Monroe, La.,
}
Sept. 24th 1862.
}
Dear Standard:--Arrived here night before last, with a lot of Ordnance stores,
tents, etc., for which I am endeavoring to procure transportation.
Part of the arms for the 29th, which started with me from
Columbus, were left at Meridian, and I sent the messenger from the Arsenal back
after them from Jackson taking charge of the stores to Vicksburg, from which
0lace we took them down the river by steamer, and have all here now.
Capt. McMasters remains at Vicksburg to receive the arms, part of which
doubtless arrived on Sunday, and the remainder will be arriving all this week.
I shall forward from this place as fast as practicable.
The Post Quarter Master tells me he will send off part, day after
tomorrow.
Gen.
Waul will probably turn over to us ten wagons and teams out of the trains which
accompanied his Legion from the west.
Maj.
Estes with his command of his detached men left on the train for Talular [sic?]
this morning. Waul's men will move
to-morrow. By the end of this week,
I hope all the 29th Texas cavalry needs will be en route for
Clarksville from the west bank of the Mississippi.
Six
boat loads of returned prisoners came down to Vicksburg on Sunday morning—the
last of the Western exchanges.
C. DeM.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 13, 1862, p. 2, c. 2-5
Cady's Hotel,
}
Columbus, Miss.,
}
Sept. 14th 1862
}
Dear Standard:--
My
last should have been from Richmond, on the 1st, had time permitted.
I visited on the 31st of August, the three first battle fields
of the seven days fight near Richmond, and while the impressions upon my mind
were fresh, would have been glad to describe them; but I was busy until my
departure, and had to omit the visitation of the other fields of battle, and the
trip to Drury's bluff, (now called Impregnable,) which I had promised myself.
In
company with Gen. T. J. Chambers, who kindly acted as our guide, Hon. W. B.
Wright, Col. W. D. Miller of Texas, now chief Clerk of the Post Office
Department, and Mr. Rector of Texas, also in the P. O. Department, I started to
the battle grounds, driven by a Hackman who was employed during all the fights,
hauling the wounded and dead from the ground and who was himself a material
assistant to our survey of the fields. We
started down the Mechanicsville turnpike, upon which Gen. Longstreet's division
was massed, and along which our batteries, and those of the enemy were posted.
We were shown where our men crossed the branch of the Chickahominy,
passing through swampy ground, and a skirt of timber, and drove them from their
first batteries, upon the heights, and saw the evidences of the retreating
fight, until we came to where the enemy made their second stand at Ellyson's
Mill or Beaver Dam, where during the night after the first battle, they threw up
a long line of entrenchments; (rifle pits) running from hill to hill to pass
which our men first charged down into a swamp right under their fire, and being
unable to cross the long, narrow mill pond, which was so concealed by timber
growth as to be unappreciable until they were up to their necks in it, and then
had to cross by a narrow bridge over the stream below the mill, and march up in
column, subject to a raking fire from the front, and quartering each side of the
road, where our men first came down the hill on their side, into the narrow
swamp, and while in the swamp exposed to the fire from the long line of rifle
pits on the opposite hill side, the fight was desperate, and the carnage
terrible. Our men he buried by the
road side, with head sticks, marked in pencil.
Many of them were Georgians. They
were unable to rise the opposite hill, as I have said, because of the deep pond,
or creek intervening, but running to the foot bridge, and taking the narrow road
right by the mill the enemy began to leave their strong position, as soon as our
men got within three hundred yards of them.
It seems strange to look at the ground that men would have abandoned such
a position, until the assailants had mounted the earth works and were upon them.
But they did. Right here it is proper to mention the information which our
negro driver gave us.—He fully participated in all the feelings which the
sight of the ground called up, and thought it strange that the enemy should come
to drive people from their own homes. He
said that as our men charged down the hill into the swamp about 40 carriages
& buggies came right after them, the occupants walking right in among the
troops, disregarding the fire and picking up the bodies of their dead or wounded
friends and carrying them off. He
said that Genl. Longstreet finally ordered them back.
He said he was employed during the whole time, and some times had two
dead bodies at the same time in his carriage.
The
trees, the little old water mill, and two or three old farm houses by the
roadside gave very plain record of the fight.
The mossy roof of the mill h as a great many new shingles which show
where shot, and shell had crashed their way through, and its weatherboarded
sides are full of bullet holes. Following
the road we see where batteries have been placed at all commanding points, trees
lopped off, or with wide creases in their stems; some very large ones, (not a
few) cut off at various elevations above the ground.
At
last we approach the field of the third days fight, known as the battle of Col
Harbor or Gaines' mill. First we
came to the abandoned residence of Dr. Gaines' son-in-law, occupied first by the
enemy, and afterwards by our army as a hospital.
It is a large and handsome residence, with roomy grounds in front, now
without a fence. In this yard, as
Gen. Chambers tells us, when he first came to it, there was scarcely room to
move between our wounded who occupied nearly every foot of space.
In the garden lie buried many who were never able to leave.
Part of the enemy's camp equipage are strewed about.
A negro woman, and child, we were told, had remained here all the time,
taking care of the property. The
fruit trees are hanging full of Apples, Pears, Peaches & Damsons, to which
we helped ourselves freely—indeed a great part of the way, our driver taking
short cuts through fields denuded of fences had carried us between rows of Apple
and Peach trees. Leaving this
house, and passing where the enemy had burned a portion of his wagon train and
stores, we drove upon the hill fronting that, occupied by the enemy at the great
struggle of Gaines' mill, where the Texas Brigade so distinguished itself.
The
hill on which we were posted was a gently running creek, with abrupt sides.
Along the margin of this creek, for some distance the enemy had cut the
timber and it was felled so as to obstruct the creek, and the margin upon their
side with the tree tops. With the
bodies of the trees they had made a line of breast work.
The stems of the trees, from six to twelve inches through, they had
placed one upon another lengthwise, holding them in position by heavy stakes. This breast work, about five feet high, they posted their
riflemen behind. Above this line,
and firing over the heads of their own men, were their batteries.
Looking at the ground, one might think that in the creek bed where they
could have fired right down upon our men, our loss would have been greatest, but
in fact it was greatest as we descended the side of the hill held by us; both
grape and musketry doing their work upon us as we descended the slope.
As we got to the margin of the creek; they began to leave their breast
works, and then our men could not be reached by the cannon which shot above,
they fired at the retreating enemy, and had comparatively safe passage, until
they got within cannon range, as they covered the brow of the hill, and there it
was short work. Immediately behind
the breast work, and all the way up the hill, and upon the margin of the hill in
the timber, were numberless relics of the enemy—old government hats,
cap-pouches, cartridge boxes, bayonet sheaths, old letters, etc. Inside the breastwork, we found graves and upon the hill,
many, where they had been buried singly, and in masses. Yet it did not seem to me, that the number of graves, was
comparative with the actual slaughter. This,
I suppose, was partly from the burial in heaps, and from the straggling of the
places of interment throughout the timber, so as not to be discernable at a
glance. In a gully on the hill side
where a body had been buried to avoid much digging, the rain had washed it bare.
There was the scull [sic]; then the frame work of the breast with the
federal uniform, with the belt across the breast, the cartridge box, the cap
pouch; and the bayonet sheath. By
the side, were some fleshless fingers. There
was a little space between the waist line of the coat as though something might
have severed the parts of the body, and then came the light blue soldier
pantaloons, showing the outline of the hip bones, and the legs, and the
fleshless bones terminating the figure of what had once been a federal soldier,
and for all we know, one in whom had centered many joys and hopes of a fond
house hold, lying there an object of contemptuous hate, in a strange land, a
victim, possibly, not of his own inclination, but of the malignant fanaticism of
a low spirited government. There
lay the remains of others, with sculls [sic] rolling about, or feet and hands
protruding from their insufficient covering, while many lookers over the field,
from widely distant parts of a once united Confederacy, gazed at them, and
remarked involuntarily that hard as it might seem to gloat over the fallen, they
could not have wished them any better fate, than to lie where they did unhonored
and unknown. The work of removing
our own dead had already commenced.—We noticed a freshly opened grave directly
under a large apple tree, from which a body had evidently been removed within
twenty-four hours. It was easy to
understand that it was the body of one of our own men, for he had been buried
deeply.
It was
the 1st, 2nd and 5th Texas, and the 18th
Georgia, (which terms itself the 6th Texas) which had stormed and
carried the ground we first examined, where the breast works had been erected;
apparently the strongest position the enemy held. An Alabama, a Georgia, and perhaps a Virginia Brigade had
been unitedly assailing the hill for four hours, and had all failed and fallen
back. It was determined that the
hill must be carried, and Gen. Whiting called to Gen. Hood commanding the
Texas Brigade, to know if the Texans could carry it.
He was told, that it was only necessary to give the order; he gave it.
Something was said about giving them some support, and after trying his
best to rally those who had been previously assailing the position, Geo. Whiting
succeeded in getting two companies of Alabamians.
While the Texans were taking position preparatory to the charge, Col.
John Marshall commanding 5th Texas, was truck in the neck by a bullet
which killed him instantly.—In the course of the night, Lt. Col. Rainey was
wounded in the hand and arm; and the Major of the Reg't, was, I believe, sick at
Richmond. One company of a Texas
regiment went through the fight without a single commissioned officer.
The
Texans charged with a terrific yell, reserved their fire until it would all
tell; went in with a run and continued it clear over the field. If they h ad marched up slowly they would have been
annihilated. There was no pause,
from the commencement to the conclusion of the charge.
The whole affair was the enthusiastic dash of men who started to go
through, who knew they could go through, and did not look upon failure as a
possibility.—There was no other fighting like it in the battles near Richmond,
except the charge at Malvern Hill, where lives were uselessly wasted in
obedience to inconsiderate orders, but where the soldiers of the South
established—even to the acknowledgement of the North, their claim to the title
of bravest of the brave, unsurpassed by anything that Napoleon's old Guard ever
did.
After
the examination of the position of the enemy's left, we went over to their right
to see where the fourth Texas charged. There
Gen. Chambers knew the incidents of every foot of the way, for he was along
starting in on horse, but compelled to leave him at the ravine, because the
timber was too dense, and making the rest of the way on foot.
My old friend and fellow soldier of '36,
Col. J. B. Robertson of Washington county, commanded the 4th,
and came through, I believe, unhurt, or not seriously hurt.
Just by where they started in, Wheat and his Tigers lie buried in
quantities. I did not understand or
do not recollect whether they had been killed before or after the charge of the
Texans, but suppose it must have been before.
Gen. Chambers told me that he noticed next morning one of the Tigers
lying dead, with eleven bullet holes through him.
Where
the 4th Texas charged, they had timber to go through in descending
the hill, and the enemy had their infantry posted in the ravine, which at this
part of it, had little, or no water in it.
From this ravine they sent up a heavy fire, and there was such a dense
smoke that their position was masked. Suspecting
after a little, that they were in the line of the ravine, Col. Robertson ordered
his men to fire down, and the enemy were soon started, and chased up the hill,
and their protecting batteries charged. This
ground, down one hill and up the other, was all wooded, covered with small
timber, and the hanging limbs, and the bodies of the trees tell the tale plain
enough to any one, even if the graves did not.
To give an idea, we saw one sapling in the route our men traversed, which
showed a surface, as large as an ordinary man's waist, seven feet above the
ground, a cannon ball had cut it off, and torn this space down to the ground,
eighteen bullets were imbedded in it. If
you consider that this sapling was straight, that the enemy were not firing at
it, but to avoid it, and hit our men, and that it a perpendicular line of four
inches in width and seven feet in elevation, eighteen balls had struck, you can
appreciate that leaden balls flew very thickly through that space of woods.
Yet we lost not a great many men there, and there is only one way to
understand it, and that is the real solution of the apparent miracle.
The ravine to be crossed was not deep---there was no breastwork—the
trees caught many of the balls and our men never paused an instant—never
stopped to fire, after routing the enemy from the ravine until they got fairly
on the hill, in presence of the main body, and then they rushed over them.
In the
pathway of the 4th Texas across the plains were large brush-arbor
encampments, in which were large bodies of the enemy. Our men first took the battery immediately before them on the
summit of the hill, pushed on through these encampments, driving part of the
enemy before them, and leaving part behind.
They pushed on and were under the brow of the hill, on the far side, and
with the intention of charging a battery a half mile off, on the next hill.
It was nearly night, and they paused to consult, whether it was better to
go to the next battery, or to turn back and attend to the enemy in their rear.
Concluding that the latter was the safest policy they turned back, and
soon encountered the remains of the New Jersey regiment, whose left they had run
over, on their way to the second battery. Two
or three rounds of musketry were exchanged, and the New Jerseymen concluded to
avoid annihilation, and surrendered. Where the 4th charged the second battery, was in
an enclosed field. They had killed
nearly all the men at the guns, and the horses; and the carcasses of the latter
were lying where they fell. In this
pathway to the battery, and within this field or near it, the last Texan killed,
had fallen. Delesdernier, of
Houston, or Galveston. He was
carefully buried, and a board at his head, recited his name, Company, and
Regiment, and said that his remains would be taken up by his friends.
From
this point we started towards Richmond, not having time to visit the field of
the Seven Pines before night. We
took with us a few federal cap pouches, and bayonet scabbards, left upon the
field; as evidences of the fight, went close by Gaines Mill, and residence, and
took the nine mile road to town, crossing the Chickahominy by McClellan's
bridge, and over the road which has been cause wayed by him to sustain his heavy
artillery. By the margin of the
Chickahominy was an anchor left by the foe.
All along the road were numberless encampments for large bodies of
troops, showing the extent of country necessary for his immense army to encamp
upon. It was a country admirably
suited for the purpose, and for the movement of large bodies of troops.
Nearly all the camps were shaded by small cedars cut and stuck in the
ground in regular rows, the foliage of which would retain vitality long enough
to suit such a purpose admirably.—Nearly all these camps too, were the places
where horses had been fed, and the scattered corn had sprouted in the late
rains, and came up in great bodies as though sown broad cast for forage.
On the way home too, we saw heavy earthworks thrown up for the defence of
the city, and mounted with guns of large calibre.
These, I believe, are in available positions all around the city, but
probably will never have to be used. No
danger to Richmond is apprehended now.
I
regretted much that I could not have seen Drury's Bluff, Seven Pines, Malvern
Hill, and Fair Oaks, but my business at Richmond was as complete as I could
accomplish it, and I did not feel at liberty to stay longer.
The
day before leaving I made use of part of the afternoon to visit the famed
Tredegar Works, which are invaluable to us, and are massed [?] on a very
extensive scale, covering a great deal of ground, and employing a great number
of hands. I went especially to see
some large guns just cast, for a special use, the ball for which I had seen in
the Ordinance office. I saw guns of
various kinds, and calibre, the facilities for making any kind here, being
ample. The works are by the side of
the James, and have the advantage of any desired amount of water power.
Virginia supplies plenty of coal and iron which comes down the canal, and
we have in the manufactures of Richmond an immense source of army
supplies—flour, cloth, arms large and small, military accoutrements of every
character. Our mills for
manufacturing Powder and small arms are becoming daily more extensive, and of
powder especially we shall soon have ample sources of supply, and that of the
best grade. I have the best
authority for saying, that the powder manufactured for the government, is fully
equal to any in the world. The only
inferior powder used is the imported article.
We have a plenty of cannon, and are continually manufacturing.
Our stock of small arms is nearly equal to the requirement.
Clothing for the soldiers will be plentiful whenever the wool of Texas
can be got to Georgia, and to Richmond. Our
army every where east of the Mississippi is in a high state of efficiency—in
fact invincible. Our affairs
generally in the best possible condition for a New Nation struggling into
existence. In fact the world's
history tells of no other instance in which a new born nation depending entirely
upon its own resources, has so soon put itself into a self sustaining position.
We are nearly all right, and the road to success and honor is plainly
blazed before us. Not a little of
this is due to our Chief Magistrate, the first President of the Confederate
States of America. Whatever carping
may be done by disappointed, disaffected, or petulant individuals—some of them
controlling public journals. I feel that I have some insight of the man's character, and
although I did not effect all I wished, in my applications to him; what I did
not effect I got a reason for; a reason founded upon public policy; and my
confidence in him, and regard for him, have been heightened by a personal
intercourse sufficient to exhibit the mainsprings of his action, and his general
tone of character. Not that he is
perfect—no man is, and I think I see too strong a tenaciousness to
preconceived opinions, and in the sustenance of individuals, and in the support
of a particular class of Military man. Yet
with these blemishes, I would not exchange him for any man in the Confederacy
known to me, for President. I have
also a very high confidence in the head of the War Department.
A captain of Artillery at the battle of Bethel, he soon became Secretary
of War, by virtue of his especial fitness for the station.
He is a polished gentleman, who never treats the humblest man rudely, and
works at his post much harder than many of the subordinates.
Our fellow citizen, the Post Master General, gives universal satisfaction
in his office, and does with it all that can be done.
The Texas members of Congress in general, are working members.
I am indebted for courtesies, to Senator Oldham and to representatives
Graham, Sexton, Wilcox, Herbert, and Wright, and also to Senator Mitchell of
Arkansas. Our representative Mr.
Wright, has been cordial, and unremitting in his attentions to my business and
wishes and has facilitated Capts. McMasters and Norwood in getting the money on
their requisitions. The progress of
business at Richmond, impeded by so many checks necessary to the guarding of
government interest and security, and by the fact that nobody can get to the
Secretary of War, without an M. C. to pass him in every time; and also by the
brief time allowed each day for the reception of business, that no man however
pushing, can get along fast, if he has more than one object to accomplish.—At
first the Stranger thinks that the hours of the Secretary of War are too
limited—10 till one; but when he knows that the Secretary is probably in
conference with the President before he gets to his office, and if he happens to
be in after one [illegible], as I have been and sees the blinds at the back of
the room open, and a little bucket with a napkin over it, set in by a negro boy,
and the blinds closed again, and see [illegible] making no movement to leave,
but [illegible] work upon the papers before him just commencing; or, if he
passes the Adjutant General's office after the gas is lighted, as I have more
than once, and sees the Clerks all busy, he will begin to appreciate why it is
difficult to get along fast. In all
the offices, in the War Department building included the Navy Department, he
will find this after dinner work going on.
At the Quartermaster General's, however, he will find the office closed
and see through the windows that the seats are empty, at 3 o'clock; and at the
Quartermaster General's he will probably find less courtesy than at any other
public office.—I have had nothing to do with it myself, except through Capt.
McMasters, but this is the report of more than one.
From
Capt. Minor, the agreeable head of the Naval Ordnance Bureau, I learn that the
iron resources of our region of country, will at once be developed.
A rolling mill will be established the preparation of pig iron greatly
extended and if the metal is found of suitable tenacity, a cannon founder, will
also be established. Who knows but the Memphis & El Paso R. R.R. may yet find
its iron rails at home.
I have
come up to this place, a pleasant little city, through some country which
reminded me of home, black prairies, with soft rock excavations for cisterns,
and fields in which the black was spotted with lime colored earth, and
occasionally a pale [?] rock ploughed to the surface.
I am told that unassisted cut off even from North Alabama, it has easily
subsisted the army moved down from Corinth, to the present time; and that army
is now moving northward. I have
come for arms and equipments, and shall get nearly everything I want, but may be
delayed longer than I like—can tell better tomorrow.
C. DeM.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 18, 1862, p. 2, c. 1-2
Columbus, Miss.
}
Sept. 17th 1862.
}
Dear Standard:--
My
last was from this place, but its contents had relation mostly to Richmond.
Leaving Richmond on the morning of the 3d, Capt. McMasters, myself, and
two other Texas gentlemen on military business, came to Lynchburg that night;
and remained there two days.—Once again I had a long lingering look at the
Blue ridge, and the Peaks of Otter, inhaled the pure air, and looked into the
delicious haze of the mountain atmosphere.
Its no use talking about sunny skies, and mild climate—these are
productive of pleasure, but one who in boyhood has looked upon the mountains
looming up to the clouds, and seen the light and shade upon their summits and
slopes, and has paddled with his bare feet in the blue waves from the Ocean,
rolling up upon some surf beaten beach, nothing else—nothing—nothing
supplies the place in whole. Other scenes may render life agreeable; but at every mention
in conversation, or in print the old love returns; and the full view of the
reality for a little time, brings a period of happiness.
My relative, whom I visited near Lynchburg had lived in Alabama once, for
eight years; and told me his sensations when he once more got back to the Blue
ridge, (he lives within six miles of the base), he felt that he never would be
willing to leave the region any more for residence anywhere else.
Lynchburg is on a hill side, and not at all attractive to strangers in
its first appearance. But a little
acquaintance will introduce to you charming residences spotted about the hills,
elegantly decorated with rare shrubbery, and within doors, very refined society.
Going out of the town westerly, as you reach the outer edge the Blue
ridge breaks upon you in a blaze of beauty, and nearly all the way down to the
Tennessee line, by the road to Chattanooga, the traveller passes through scenery
of continued beauty, hill and dale, and clear running streams.—New river,
where we crossed it, clear running, broad and shallow, and full of rocks, is
very pleasant to look upon.
Near
the border of Smith and Washington counties, men got upon the cars bearing small
bags of salt upon their shoulders, procured from the government salt works for
family use.—The works in their origin were private property, but the
government controls them now, and out of the 3000 bushels manufactured each
days' permits individual citizens to get for their own use in quantities of a
bushel, 600 bushels daily at one dollar per bushel.
Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee have Agents making arrangements for
manufacture on State account. I see
that the Government of Georgia has already commenced to distribute a little giving
to each wife or widow, or widowed mother of a soldier in service, half a bushel,
and giving them a preference over other purchasers, for more.
The water is obtained by boring and is plentiful.
We came south by way of Knoxville and Dalton to Atlanta, where we lay
over to feel the market for clothes etc. Found
it extraordinarily high—much higher than Richmond.
Had from Atlanta, Col. Cumby, of Greer's old regiment for a travelling
companion. Leaving, we detached a
friend to Augusta, and I went to Columbus, (Ga.) to cry the market for clothes
etc. At Augusta our friend found
nothing for sale that military men wanted.
At Columbus I found little—that little mostly from Richmond, greatly
increased in price. I had heard a
great deal about Georgia cloth manufacture, and Columbus has two mills, but none
of the products that I could find or hear of, were half as good as our home made
Jeans, with plenty of wool in it. The
Eagle mills are working strictly for the Government, but the product is poor in
every respect, and nearly all cotton. The
truth is wool is very scarce east of the Mississippi, and the Texas wool
deposited at Jefferson and Shreveport much needed.
I examined some clothing in the Quartermasters office here, yesterday,
made up in the clothing department here. The
fabric I liked much better than any I have seen in Georgia, but was very scant
of wool, and the reason assigned was, that the wool could not be obtained.
Louisville,
Cincinnati, and Baltimore will soon afford us plentifull [sic] supplies of
cloth, and Blankets. In the
meantime I have succeeded with some difficulty in getting a partial supply here.
None were to be had at Richmond and the supply here not as much in all as
I would have required for the regiment; and no present known means of recruiting
it; but I begged what I could, and never asked to look at them; us beggars have
no choice—especially where there is no variety to choose from.—I am only in hope
that they may prove good. I have
found Col. Trezevant (formerly of Memphis) commanding the Arsenal, Maj. Anderson
the Quartermaster and Capt. Logwood military store keeper; very agreeable
gentlemen, and have been furnished with all the [illegible] of their control. Remaining here some days, and each day walking through the
public works which are extensive—employing 700 hands, I have availed myself of
my observation to get some articles which I might otherwise have over looked.
Of some of these the supply on hand is not sufficient to fill my
requisition, and they will be forwarded as soon as ready.—Part of the shot
guns, and most of the accoutrements will start this evening by the Cars, and
will be attended to until they get to Clarksville.
From
Mobile here it is 21½ hours trip by the cars.
The last part of the way is a black land prairie country, usually heavily
productive, out this year seriously affected by drought.
This place is one of the prettiest town sites I have yet seen.
It is pleasantly undulating, has many very tasteful residences, a very
large new hotel, not quite finished, and now occupied as a
hospital—accommodates 700 patients—The Tombigbee river runs by the town, a
clear pretty stream with a high bluff bank on the town side.
It affords navigation from some time in December until April, and 2000
bale boats come to this point. There
is nothing fine about the stores in the place, though some of them in prosperous
times do a heavy business by the attractiveness of the residences large and
small grooms upon one every day. Walking
on a tour of observation yesterday evening I noticed a large four story brick
building, with architectural pretentions; not yet roofed.
Was told that it was the New Female Academy.
Attended
last night, an exhibition of Fableau Vivants [sic?] at the Court House.
The house was crowded with an intelligent looking and well behaved
audience. Quantities of feminines—not
much beauty, though a great many, who could pass without criticism.
Saw more pretty women in Columbia, S. C. than anywhere else, though I
know there are, or once were, a great number about Lynchburg.
But in Columbia you see them on the streets.
A few stranger beauties in Richmond—very scarce; and hardly any I think
pertaining to the place. In Mobile
in my two visits, have not seen one.
This
town is full of Memphians, who have found it convenient to emigrate, and long
for the day when they can be permitted to return.
C. DeM.
Skip to November 1, 1862
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 1, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
The Conspiracy.
The plot lately developed in Cooke and Grayson has much more importance
at a distance than at home. We
learn from a letter of Capt. J. W. Throckmorton, who went with Judge Waddill, to
Sherman and gave time to the investigation of the matter, that the association
has never comprised more than one man of any standing, being mostly made up of
refugees and suspected persons, quite a number of whom are said to have been
hung in Cooke. The head man was
Leander Locke, tried in Lamar several years since, for shooting Harrell, and
acquitted for want of certainty in the evidence, though universally believed to
be guilty. Even the objects of the
association are said to be uncertain; persons being taken in upon different
definements—some being told that it was a Peace association—others that it
was an association to resist or evade Conscription.
Judge
Waddill and Capt. Throckmorton addressed the people at Sherman, and a vote was
taken of five or six hundred; and the people determined to turn over the accused
in that county, either to the Confederate Court, or to the State District Court,
for trial under the act of the last Legislature.
It is
said that the whole association is west of Fannin, except two or three in Fannin,
none east of that county.
The
killing of Col. Wm. C. Young, and Jas. Dickson, by some of these scoundrels,
growing out of Col. Young's efforts to ferret out the plot, is one of the
sorrowful incidents connected with the affair:
the hanging of forty or fifty of the Conspirators has doubtless been a
great good to society; aside from the honest debt they owed the gallows for
their treasonable designs.
Col.
Young was well known in this community; in which he lived many years; and well
known to nearly every old settler in northern Texas, and to hundreds throughout
the State. He had been U. S.
Marshall for the Western District, and Colonel of a Regiment of Cavalry at the
outset of the war. Previously
Colonel of a regiment in the Mexican war. He
was a man who made his own character by his presence and manner, and was seldom
misunderstood. He was essentially a
good man, if generous and humane qualities make a good man—he had a whole
heart, and warm social tendencies, and was a friend to be counted on when
wanted—to be counselled with, safely at all times; and with a certainty of
enlisting his sympathies in the subject of counsel. We knew him twenty years intimately, and are not certain that
we know any better man. Politically
or socially, he was always reliable, always candid, always warm-hearted.
His death will be felt keenly, not only in his own family, but in his
neighborhood, and throughout Northern Texas, by many a one who has felt the warm
grasp of his hand, and recollects his hearty laugh, and his bluff, genial
salutations. He had lived long
enough to be kindly appreciated by thousands; long enough to have served his
country on the battle field; long enough to rear one family of children.
There is another growing up, which will miss his cheery voice; and a
widow who has tasted of sorrow before. Her
pathway is again desolated, but she will have the sympathies of many; and even
sympathy in sorrow, is sweet to the sufferer.
Skip to January 22, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
Saddle Blankets.
A very superior article heavy carpeting, suitable for
saddle blankets, for sale by
W. P. Dickson & Co.
Clarksville, Dec. 29th, 1862.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 1, c. 2
Wagons & Teams Wanted
I wish to hire, one hundred Wagons and Teams to transport supplies from
Bonham, Texas, to Forts Washita, Arbuckle and Johnson's Station, for the Troops
and Indians. Forage will be furnished the Teams, and rations to the drivers and
fair prices will be paid in cash.
The
Citizens on the Frontier know the absolute necessity that exists, of placing the
supplies at those points at once; and I trust will aid me at once as they know
as well as myself the necessity for prompt action.
Let all persons having wagons, and teams, that can be furnished, report
to me at Bonham, Texas, without delay.
I also
wish to purchase good Mules, Wagons, and Harness, for which I will pay Cash.
Office A. Q. M. C. S. a. Bonham, Texas.
A. S. Cabell.
Capt. & A. Q. M. C. S. A.
January 1st, 1863.
No. 41-4ts.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
In
looking over late northern papers one is struck with the advertisements for
sales of books which are acknowledged to have been stolen from the southern
people. Humphrey Marshall's library
was lately sold in Cincinnati. There
were very valuable libraries in Virginia and South Carolina, all of which have
been stolen and carried North. Old
and rare books, heir-looms that had been in the several families for centuries,
are sold for a mere song.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 1, c. 3
Wrapping Paper.
A few hundreds old newspapers for sale at
"Standard Office."
January 16th, 1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
The Legislature.
The legislature meets in called session on the 2d Feb. Important propositions will doubtless be submitted to it.
Above all things the conscription of Negroes should be brought about by
some mode. The idea that a white
man can be taken away from his wife and children, and put into the field, not
only to fight, but to do menial service, while a sleek negro cannot be reached,
but stays at home in comfort, is monstrous.
The effective force of the Confederacy can be increased, by conscripting
enough negroes to drive teams, cook and wash, to just the extent that the
negroes may be furnished to take the places of white men now kept out of the
line of battle to do these occupations of drudgery.
It must be done—This exemption of classes cannot continue.—All white
men are recognized as equal under our Constitution, and must be by the spirit of
the laws enacted under the Constitution. The
legislature should by resolution, take ground against exemptions of privileged
classes.
Let
those who can be of especial service at home, in the management of negroes,
etc., have the privilege of putting in substitutes; and let no substitution be
permitted except by those who are really needed for preserving the social
system at home. We need a little
energetic legislation upon principles of political equality.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 2, c. 5
Cotton
Cards.—The Augusta Chronicle, Ga., says Messrs. Lee & Co; have
manufactured a box of cotton cards which are a perfect model of Whitmore's
having been made on a Whitmore machine brought from Baltimore.
They are sold at $10 a pair. It
is said Messrs. Lee & Co. desire to take contracts to supply States, and
surely our State ought not to lose such an opportunity to provide our people
with an article of the greatest necessity.
It said those cards formerly sold for 15 cts a piece at wholesale and can
be supplied to the State at $3 per pair at present.
The State might be saved millions of dollars in the supply of clothing to
our troops, by having our people supplied with the cards to make the clothing
instead of having to pay present enormous prices.
[Galveston news.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 22, 1863, p. 2, c. 5
The
following extract from the message of Gov. Pickens, of S. C. is eloquently true.
One
great cause of the unanimity and deep enthusiasm of the whole people in this war
for our independence, arises from the fervor and religious zeal in the cause
which our clergy and laity of all denominations, have manifested.
They have made it almost a holy war.
Added to this has been the patriotic and intense feeling our women have
universally exhibited. No men who
have such mothers, such wives, and such sisters, were ever born to be enslaved.
We, of
this State, owe a debt of lasting gratitude to the women of Virginia, in
particular.
There
is scarcely a mother, a wife, or a sister in South Carolina (and there are
thousands,) mourning for the loss of their loved ones that have perished on the
bloody fields of Virginia, whose grieving heart has not received comfort from
the thought that the sinking soldier and hero in his dying moments was soothed
by the kind attention of some tender female of Va. No people of any age or country have ever suffered more than
they have in the noble State of Virginia, and no people with the same amount of
population, have ever in the annals of history, presented to the world more
captains of higher qualities to lead and to command, or soldiers of more heroic
valor, than has Virginia, and her terrible sufferings, and hereafter when asked
for her jewels, Virginia will not be confined alone to her sons, but she can
turn and proudly point to her daughters as pearls that will throw a more than
royal [sic?] from her diadem of honor.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 31, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
The
Victoria Advocate says that a pair of large Camels are being put on the express
from the Rio Grande to Victoria. They
are to be harnessed to a large 2 wheeled cart.
They will carry 3,000 lbs freight, and make the trip in five to 7 days.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 31, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
The
exemption act is doing some good.—Twenty cotton factories in North Carolina,
have reduced their prices as follows: 4 4 sheetings, 35c, cotton yarns, Nos.
five to seven, $3,50 per bunch.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 7, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 14, 1863, p. 2, c. 5
Acknowledgment.
The undersigned Surgeon of the
29th Texas Cavalry, acknowledges his indebtedness, and that of the regiment, to
Miss M. B. Anderson, and Miss Bell Gordon, for a box of well prepared lint, and
to Mrs. Mary Denoho, for a roll of soft linen for dressings. These
articles are indispensable, and very difficult to be got, and many a wounded
soldier may have occasion to feel grateful for them.
E. P. Kearby,
Surgeon,
De Morse's
Texas Cavalry,
Camp Lee; near Paris, Feb. 9th, 1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 21, 1863, p. 2, c. 5
Notice.
Just Received,
1,500 yards 7/8 Cotton Osnaburgs,
"
"
2 Barrels Rum,
"
"
20 Boxes fine Tobacco,
"
"
5 Hogsheads Sugar,
"
"
3 Barrels Molasses,
and
for sale by
J. H. Darnall.
No.—46—4ts.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], February 28, 1863, March 7,
1863, March 14, 1863, March 21, 1863, April 11th, 1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 25, 1863, p. 2, c. 1-2
Fort Arbuckle
Indian Territory
March 30th 1863
Dear Standard:--
On
yesterday (Sunday) morning, the 29th rode into Arbuckle, and took
formal possession relieving Capt. Scanland and Squadron, who had held possession
for the previous two months.
There
was a high wind blowing, and our battle flag floated out in its full dimensions,
as we rode up the hill our trumpet sounding, the small garrison gathered around
lazily to look at the newcomers. Our
column filed into the central square of the Post, was halted and dismounted and
stood by their horses until arrangements for occupancy were perfected, by the
examination and selection of quarters. On
the previous evening the Col. and Capt. Hooks of Red River had called upon Capt.
Scarland [sic?], and the Col. issued the order relieving Capt. Scarland, who
commenced preparations for his departure.—We came here with two companies, Co.
D, Capt. Hooks, and Co. I, Capt. Elliott; having left Co. K Capt. Warren at
Tishemingo, to scout for runaway negroes and other depredators.
A day or two previous to our arrival, Gov. Harris of the Chickisaws
[sic], with a small party, had come upon some runaway negroes, killed two, and
captured three. All trains from
Washita to Arbuckle travel with scouts. We
found encamped in the vicinity, Co. B Capt. Wilson and Co. H Capt. Brown, who
were sent down on the Red River line, this morning and will be replaced here by
four other companies. Capt. Warren
will also come up in a few days, and four or five companies will be thrown
forward to Elm Springs 30 miles above here, and scout across the country
westward. We shall investigate the
statement about the big camp of Indians on the Canadian.
Our Colonel holds a conference day after to morrow, with Chiefs of the
Seminoles, Osages, Comanches, Ionies, Anadachoes, Caddoes, and Tonkoways. He
will meet them at Cherokee-town about 15 miles north of this, and will be
accompanied by an escort. He has
all necessary authority to make all desirable arrangements and alliances with
them; and it is understood that they have long waited his coming, having been
informed that he would bring a force sufficiently imposing for protection.
The Indians named are not numerous, but useful allies for frontier
protection.—The Tonkaways were nearly exterminated by the Comanches last year.
The tongs have invariably been friends of the Texans.
One of them a very sensible looking old fellow, who calls himself
"Jeff Davis" came with two squaws to our camp below Washita, and asked
for the "big captain," and after obtaining rations for himself and
family; presented a hair rope of his own manufacture to the Col; his
presentation address being "me—give you."
Of course he knew, that to a cavalry man, such a present must be
acceptable. Having obtained his
rations, our friend Jeff, who is a prudent provider, elaborating upon the extent
of his family, big and little requiring to be fed, "heap-e little
ones" went that same evening to Washita, a distance of two miles, and drew
again for his interesting family. Jeff
is a shrewd man, and has a decidedly sensible cast of countenance—rather
intellectual. His old squaw was
large, fat, and as a matter of unusual delicacy, had a clean cotton handkerchief
over her breast. The younger one (I
suppose) looked old in the face, but was thought to be a daughter. Both wore Buckskin pantalettes, and had a much saver way of
riding on horseback than the feminines on our side of the creek.
These ladies in the graceful style of their tribe, held their feet down
on both sides of their horses; I believe it looks better, because more natural,
than the way of disposing of one's entire bulk, on one side of the horse,
to say nothing of the natural position. This
question can be argued at greater length hereafter.
I
believe, that in my last, I gave no description of Fort Washita.
It is a beautiful locality, and the buildings, in much better order than
I supposed from description. Fort
proper there is none; but officers quarters, soldiers barracks, Hospital and
officers family residences. Quartermasters,
and Commissary's store houses, Armories, Blacksmiths and wagon shops.
There were the wrecks of some old stables, never of much value.
Some ornamental fencing had been torn away, but no material damage done
the post. The hospital of brick, is
a large, and good structure. There
is one concrete building for barracks. The
remainder, I believe, are all frame buildings, most of them well built, and
commodious. The scenery around is
beautiful. At Flatborough near
Washita the Colonel had a conference with Gen. Cooper, who was temporarily at
that place, his usual head quarters being at Nunni Waiyah on the Canadian. We had some wagon work, gun work, and horse shoeing done at
Washita, got some powder and caps, and stopped on the evening of Thursday the 26th,
on Pennington, a beautiful creek, which runs by Tishemingo, in water as clear as
crystal, pouring through a sandy bed, with a hill on one side, and masses of
rock, bordering and projecting into the stream, we caught fish by tying four
hooks together, jerking them into the fish as they passed over the hooks, using
no bait.—They were called red horse fish, and were clean looking and had a
good flavor. It was a beautiful
camping place. Small pieces of
quartz were numerous lying about the larger rocks, which were gray externally.
I had no means of breaking, and determining their proper classifications.
The
next day we got two miles this side the place of Gov. Harris, which is situated
upon black land, and adjacent to a beautiful, free running, rocky creek, which
made a bend at the road, requiring us to cross it twice. In the morning, our road lay through high prairie with masses
of rock in bold forms on either side, the land mostly poor and coarsely sandy.
The rock was in great quantity, and was of a granitic formation, red—In
one place was a bed which looked like red marble, spotted with white.
At another place on the road side, was a small rock of white marble with
blue veins, I tried unsuccessfully to break some but got only some small
fragments. The streams throughout
the day were clear, with sandy beds. The scenery was very agreeable to me, as a
change from the more level confirmation on our side of the river. The prairies were gemmed with myriads of little white
flowers, and the little chickasaw Plum bushes were frequent. I looked for cactus, but found only a few of the common
Prickly Pear. Arbuckle is a
beautiful locality. High ground
with mountains in the distance; sandy around the Fort, but in the bottom near
by, splendid mulatto soil, resembling Old Caney.
Where we crossed the Washita, five miles before getting to this place,
the stream is clear, the bed sandy and rocky, and rising the bank, the lands
magnificently rich. Grass is quite
short, and it will be close work to keep up our horses here, even by grazing
them all day. At Elm Springs above
here, the grass is said to be rich. Cattle
about here are in good order. The
buildings here are commodious and extensive, but were never quite as good as at
Washita, and have been more abused. All
the post furniture has been carried off, except one large double desk, and a few
iron bed steads. There is a large
well of excellent water in the centre of the square, and under the hill a
magnificent spring. A house has
been erected over a square basin of ten by twelve feet, with four feet depth,
water entirely clear, and unceasingly bubbling up from the bottom in circles
which maintain their identity until they reach the surface, and sparkle as they
rise, here and there, continually. If
the water were confined, the body of water might be some feet deeper, but an
outlet has been given it, and it runs off in a bold branch which would turn a
large mill wheel. I have not found
time to go any distance around the Post, as yet.
There are a few Indian families living about here—two in the Post, and
one or two close by. The stables
here are large, but somewhat out of order.
They are useful however for confining our horses so that we can guard
them at night.
A Soldier of the 29th.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 25, 1863, p. 2, c. 2-3
Surrender of Judge Davis.
The Brownsville flag of the 20th gives the following account
of the capture and surrender of Judge Davis:
On the
night of Saturday, the 14th, or rather on the morning of Sunday, the
15th, a party of men consisting of some citizens and some soldiers so
we have been told, (for the names and details of the transactors in the affair,
are unknown) passed from the Texas side of the Rio Grande into Mexico, and
captured and took prisoner a man, I. T. Montgomery, a very desperate character,
who had made himself notorious and objectionable to the Confederate citizens on
this frontier. At the time that
Montgomery was captured, there happened to be present a Texas renegade named E.
J. Davis who pretends to hold a colonel's commission in the Yankee army.
Davis was with his family at the time, and it is possible that this
circumstance is the only excuse for his being alive at this time to perplex
matters between people who ought to have more important matters to quarrel
about.
The
Texans crossed the Rio Grande early in the morning and soon surrounded the house
in which Montgomery [torn page folded back] were lodged. Quite a number of renegades [torn page folded back] house and
they soon [torn page folded back] to fight.
this was just the card that suited the Texians and our boys pitched in.
The renegades soon found that fighting was not their game, and they
commenced a lively skeedadle over the sand hills.
They were fired at by our boys, and we are informed through their own
party they lost three men killed and some wounded.
As we
said before, owing to the secrecy observed about the affair on the Texas side of
the Rio Grande, we can ascertain none of the particulars of the transaction from
those of our men who were engaged in it, and therefore we have to rely mainly on
the statements of parties who have heard the talk of the runaway renegades.
Montgomery
and Davis were brought to the Texas side of the Rio Grande.
Montgomery is said to have been hung immediately after he was landed, and
Davis was concealed in the bushes near Brownsville to prevent his being taken
possession of by Gen. Bee.
As a
matter of course this invasion of Mexico and capture of Yankees in that country
created great excitement and much anxious regret both in Matamoras and
Brownsville.—The renegades took it in high dudgeon and got up a torchlight
procession in Matamoras which consisted of runaways; white and black, a few
barefooted Mexicans and any number of children.
The same crowd could have been hired to turn out for any disreputable
purpose either to attend the funeral of a thief, or the orgies of a prostitute.
The
Mexican authorities acted very promptly and calmly on the subject.
Gov. Lopez simply made a demand for the surrender of the captured
individuals, and as soon as Gen. Bee could obtain control of Davis he returned
him to the Mexican authorities. This
act of justice was done on Wednesday Major Grey acting as the agent of the
military in surrendering the renegade.
The
Mexican population of Matamoros, that is the respectable portion of it acted
with a great deal of calmness on occasion the [sic] and used their best
endeavors to bring the matter to a peaceful and satisfactory termination.
The perceived that the act was one purely personal and that the two
people should not embroil themselves for one of those events which no authority
can at all times control.
When
the renegades were captured they were at the mouth of the Rio Grande for the
purpose of going away on a Yankee transport.
When she learned of the capture she put to sea with the threat to return
soon with forces to thrash the Texians at the mouth of the river.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 2, 1863, p. 1, c. 4
Rags, Rags, Rags!
Five cents per pound will be paid for cotton or linen rags, delivered to
the undersigned in Austin or to Dr. Theo. Koester in New Braunfels.
These
rags are wanted to make paper with, and as this is a new enterprise in Texas it
is to be hoped every family will provide themselves with a rag bag.
Agents to collect rags will be appointed in each county, of which due
notice will be given.
Texas
papers are generally requested to copy, and those who make a charge, will
publish three times and send bill to
D. Richardson
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 2, 1863, p. 2, c. 1-2
Fort Arbuckle }
April 6, 1863. }
Ed. Standard:
I
believe my last was written to you a day or two before our Col. was to have a
conference with the chiefs of the Seminoles, Commanches [sic], Caddos, Anadakos
&c. Well the meeting came on
according to appointment. The Col, Surgeon Kearby, Dr. Hobson, late Post
Surgeon, Capt. Hooks, and Capt. Elliott, with some 30 men from Co's. D and I,
went up to Cherokee town the Caddo village starting on a bright and beautiful
morning, the 1swt April, and arriving at Cherokee town at 1 p.m. with our Battle
Flag blowing out full in a stiff breeze and the trumpet sounding, we rode up to
the village in column of twos, and discovered just before us at the right of the
village, a round grove in which was an assemblage of Indians.
We rightly inferred that this was a place of council, and dismounted we
found a number of Seminoles, Caddoes anadakos [sic] and commanches [sic] waiting
for us, and also two white men. Those
we found were Capt. Dial, Quartermaster, and Lt. Patterson, adjutant of Jumpers
Battalion. Jumper himself being
down in the bottom adjacent, to see Jose Maria, an Anadako chief, who was sick
confined to his lodge.
Jumper
soon came up, accompanied by Capt. Factor his Interpreter, a half breed
Seminole. Lt. Col. Jumper is a full
blood Seminole dark expressive countenance, serious. He is six feet 2 or three inches high, stout built was
dressed in a blue military frock with the large cape of a Cavalry overcoat on
his shoulder; a black hat sent him from Richmond with broad lace band, and some
ornaments, and down the stripes of his blue military pants were broad stripes of
gold lace. I was told by Dr. Hobson
that the Confederate States had sent him last year, a handsome full uniform.
He had a semi-savage and imposing look, and makes a good impression by
his manner and bearing and style of speech.
He speaks no English, though I am told he partially understands it.
He is not loquacious, but evidently reflects before he speaks.
He and his escort had ridden thirty miles that morning from the Seminole
agency, and rode home after 12 p.m. The
Council of his nation should have been held that day, and he had postponed it
one day.
The
two white members of his staff, and his interpreter, were prepossessing and
agreeable. Capt. Dial, the Quarter
Master, a Virginian who had been in the nation but about 15 months. Dr. Hobson had been with the Seminoles before and they
greeted him kindly. He speaks much
in their praise, and says they are very honest.
The
conference with Jumper was in hearing of all of us. He assented to all the Col's propositions, and as soon as the
actual business was through left on account of the distance to go before night.
He inquired if the Col. wanted him with his battalion, or some of his
officers, was told he wanted him and relied much upon him.
He said well, he wished to go along with us.
After this, Mr. Jones, the Comanche Interpreter told us that the reserves
desired to have their talk in the bottom in which part of their lodges are. Where we first halted, is high rolling prairie, with
scattering trees of large growth, about a quarter of a mile South west of the
Washita. On the high prairie were a
few lodges; in the bottom some more, and on the other side of the Ford, the
Comanches, who had only been [illegible] were encamped, after the talk with
Jumper we had dinner and in about an hour we were invited to a large lodge in
the bottom a sort of Council house circular 12 feet in diameter and open at the
top. The frame like [illegible] of
all the lodges, was of poles, connected by small sticks, and filled in with some
dry grass covered with some skins and some old tent cloth.
This
lodge we entered by a cloth stooping very low and then rising, squatted down all
around the lodge, were the young men of the Caddoes and Ana-a-dak-os.
Inside of these in a line on one side were Tirrah and Geo. Washington,
chief of the Caddoes; and Cocadawy and Tochaway Chief of the Comanches seated on
Buffalo robes, Crosslegged. The
Indians generally were painted, and dressed in a variety of styles.
At first it seemed me that some of them were women, but I was mistaken.
Opposite the chiefs, a robe and a cushion were placed for the Colonel,
who did all the talking on our side; and was replied to and questioned by the
four chiefs successively; at the left of the Col. was the Caddo interpreter an
Indian, and Dr. Sturm the Commissary of Jones to the reserves.
On the right Mr. Jones Comanche interpreter and to the right of Mr. Jones
were ranked Surgeon Kirby, Capt. Hooks, Capt. Elliot, Lt. Gafney, and others. The Chiefs were very careful in their inquiries and evinced
more caution than I had supposed was a part of their character.
They were told by the Col. what his instructions were, and what he
wanted, in positive terms; after a while they pronounced one before the other
each making a speech for the ears of the tribe, and each evidently acting for
himself, and neither of them saying positively what he would or could do; which
as I have since learned is a part of the Indian character, and mode of
conference. All stated their
satisfaction with what the Colonel said to them, the interpreter saying "he
say, he like very much what you say," but we went back expecting not much
from them. It was so near night
when we got through that the Command went to a sandy creek, about 1/4th
of a mile on our way home, and camped for the night finding excellent grass for
our horses, and good water in small basins.
This creek running through a rich prairie, filled with great masses of
sand with only here and there a little water.
The Indians had a large number of ponies running on the grass beginning
to thrive. Geo. Washington told us
he had eleven young men trying to recover horses stolen from them by wild
Indians. Not a few of us thought
they might be out stealing themselves; especially as it was said they had been
out thirty days, and the tribe was getting anxious about them.
But we did them injustice. They
have since come in from near Bents ford, having through the influence of Jim
Parkmark recovered 53 of their ponies from the Kiowas, who had stolen them.
36 other ponies the Kiowas would not relinquish.
Notwithstanding their uncertainty of expression; that very night the
tribes began to act as the Colonel requested them to do, and on the 3d down came
some 25 of them to see the Colonel and have another talk at his quarters,
enrolling their names. Geo.
Washington only, of the Chiefs came with them but all were in high glee they had
held a war dance all the night before and were quite talkative among themselves. Our men crowded the windows and doors of the Col's Quarters,
and finally got some to shooting for tobacco.
They evinced considerable accuracy with their bows and arrows.
Rations of flour and salt were issued to them, and they went home
satisfied. The government feeds all
the Indians on flour and beef half pound rations flour 2 pounds beef per day.
The commaches [sic] who left at the attack on Cobb, last fall had only
come back some five days since. They
have a few cases of smallpox in their lodges.
Their two chiefs are fat good natured looking men Cocadaway much disposed
to laugh Tochaway more grave, but mild benevolent looking, with a decidedly
sensible expression.
Tirrah
of the Caddos is dark but pleasant looking.
Geo. Washington has a rather Washington expression of countenance, except
the expression of intellectuality is not high.—He is considered however quite
a sensible old fellow matter of fact business like Indian.
He wore a blue military coat striped summer pantaloons, a steeple crown
hat with silver plates around it, wore a red ribbon and a black feather upright,
after the old continental style.—The other chiefs were in Indian garb.
Commanches moved about on their ponies, all get into the saddle from the
right side of the horse. All of
them look less savage than I anticipated and like to be treated familiarly.
The
Tonkaways were here to see the Colonel the day he went to the Caddo villages,
and did not like to hear that he had gone there. The Tonkaways at war with the other tribes say that they
cannot be confided in. At the
breaking up of Cobb the hostile Indians killed 70 of the Tonkaways, and now they
have only 50 warriors left of them, 20 are with our companies across the river.
On the
morning of the 3d the Tonkaway chief Castayo came again with his interpreter
"White" another Tonkaway, stayed till dinner and asking the Colonel
when he expected to leave said "ten days—we go with you—to morrow
Washita—trade buffalo robes for blanket—we got no blanket—may to go—five
six seven days—I come—but me go with you maybe [illegible] Tonkaway go with
me—I tell him—may be [illegible]—but we go with you!" Castayo is a fine looking Indian. The Col. gave him a belt to put around him with C. S. on the
plate. He had on the upper part of
his body a close fitting cotton under shirt dyed walnut color, and had buckskin
leggins of the same kind, and an old blanket around his waist.
From the back of his head which was suspended a long strap, on which were
strung perhaps twelve or fifteen silver medallions three inches in diameter.
He carried a gun, flint lock, [illegible] musket size, cut short, and
with [illegible] stock. When the
Tonkaway came down from the taking of Fort Cobb every night they were surrounded
by the hostile tribes and every morning had to fight their way out.
Pike had them stationed on rock Creek, about 15 miles from here, near the
road to Washington.—They have not much left being [illegible] what the
Government furnished them as it did the other tribe with cattle, but that they
ate them all up, cows included. They are said to be great gluttons and eat a weeks rations in
three or four days, lie torpid and do without for the remainder of the time.
It is said, and I suppose there is doubt that they eat the bodies of
their enemies killed in battle with all these faults, and some others not
enumerated here, there never has been the shadow of doubt of there loyalty to
Texas. Twenty four years ago, when
they were nearly always in association with the Spanish they were frequently at
Austin and San Antonio. Since then the Lipans have become hostile.
Some are in Mexico, and some near Bents fort on the Arkansas.
Day before yesterday, Co. I went up to Elm Springs some [illegible] miles
above where we shall make a station. In
two or three days more, other companies will go up and a system of scouting
across the Wichita mountains be kept up.
The
season seems backward here, the trees are just in bloom not yet in leaf too much
extent. It seems strange to us that
in April there is no shade.
Yesterday
I visited the grave yard of the Post a point east of us, not enclosed about a
dozen graves are there. Enclosures
have been put around single graves and structures of brick and stone have been
made but all more or less dilapidated. Two
or three inscriptions visible. One
body not long since buried was nearly scratched out by the wolves a few night
since. Some of our men covered it
again. I saw one broken grave stone
of marble which I think must be native marble.
It is pure white. These
graves indicate the frail nature of human endeavors to perpetuate memory
monumentally except in the crowded cemeteries adjacent to cities where they are
constantly watched. These graves
have a neglected and deserted appearance which says as plainly as inanimate
things can say, that they are rapidly on the road to desolation and
forgetfulness. It seems mournful to the living but the dead feel not and I
am inclined to believe that except in well preserved cemetarys [sic] where
memory is continued by record and constant observation of inscriptions, and by
family associations and remembrances, where, even the dead; through the spirit
of association maintain an identity and a post mortem existence in ideality that
the vast charnel of the Ocean or the middle of the great plains, where no human
eye would ever see, nor any human tread desecrate the last resting place of the
body; in a locality for the long rest more acceptable to the contemplation than
a neighborhood grave yard or the burial place of a frontier post remote from
attention of friends. It matters
little where we lie at last except that in a well managed ground within the
circle of active life, surrounded and cared for by the posterity of our selves
or our friends, the chain of kindly association seems to be preserved after
death; in the memory of those who know us and loved us in life, and in the
knowledge imparted to their children. But
on one of these remote hills where nobody goes, a slab, with an inscription is a
mockery of memory frigid and wholly unsatisfactory.
"Allas poor Yorick,"
Yours
A Soldier of the 29th.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 9, 1863, May 16, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 30, 1863, p. 2, c. 1-2
Camp Butler, Creek Nation, }
May 12th,
1863.
}
Dear Standard:
I believe my
last was from Fort Arbuckle, written on the night of the 30th April. On
Saturday the second of May, under pressing orders, the Col. with three
companies, moved toward this locality. One Co--B, had to be left to
garrison the Post until Capt. Scanland should relieve it; another Co--I, had to
be left at Elm Springs until relieved. Five companies had moved eastward
from the Seminole Agency, under Maj. Carroll, three days before. Capt.
Scanland arrived an hour after we left; his men came in the next morning and the
next morning a detachment was started to Elm Springs to relieve Co.
I. Co. B waited until Tuesday morning, and got here, by hard marching,
yesterday, one day after our arrival and two days after the arrival of the five
first companies. Co. I with the remainder of the hospital will be here in
three days probably; and our detachments to Red River and Lamar for
recruits in a day or two more. We shall have in a few days, about 800 men
in the regiment, though some of these are on detached duty. Our men are
mostly in good health. We had a most pleasant march from Arbuckle.
The weather was not very warm except one day, and the evening of that day
brought with it a heavy rain, lasting an hour or so. It has surprised me
to see how long cool weather has held on in the Spring of the year, in a
latitude not more than one degree higher than Clarksville, at Arbuckle--here
about two degrees higher. We left Arbuckle at [illegible] past A. M. of
the 2nd, and encamped that night at a pretty, rocky creek, 6 miles east, where
was an abundance of rich grass. At night, Quarter master's men, and
ordnance Serg't detained at the Fort, some hours after our departure, came in
and brought news of Captain Scanland's arrival. Next morning we started
early, camped at Blue, 15 miles, early in the evening, and our horses faired
sumptuously.--Our train mules which had had to feed the night or morning before
starting, and were somewhat ragged the first night, recovered their tone, and
came in without weariness on this day. Blue, at this locality; on the road
from Arbuckle to North [Folk] town, is a deep bed, but scarcely any water,
perhaps by this time none. Mountains were perceptible on the far side of
the stream from us, and were [?] morning, shortly after starting, we passed over
a spur, from which we had a splendid landscape of mingled hill and dale before
us, and then we descended immediately into a valley country. At the end of
ten miles we found Cochran's on Boggy, a considerable farm, with large stock of
cattle, from the pens of 250 milch cows had just been let out, and came up the
road meeting us.
In a few
yards beyond Cochran's house, we crossed one of the heads of Boggy, a rapidly
running muddy stream, with full head of water, having a fall over rocks, at the
crossing of about three feet. We passed during this day and the next,
several branches of Boggy, all muddy, though close to their sources in the
mountains. At midday, we rested and grazed five miles beyond Cochran's,
until our teams came up, and then pushed on to another Boggy, which we reached
in a heavy rain. Found good grazing and water; the storm passed over after
awhile, and the stars were bright. Turkeys and wolves numerous here, and
our men killed some of the Turkeys. We had travelled 22 miles this
day. All the next day we saw on our left, a low range of wooded mountains,
and in the evening after a travel of 14 miles we halted near a small branch, on
the far side of a Boggy, in a sweet little circular valley, at the base of a
mountain. Up this I rode by a winding route, and got a splendid view of a
beautiful. [sic?] To the South I saw only successive ranges of
hills, covered with timber. Immediately back, and north rose higher ranges
of the same mountain on which, stood covered with timber, and cutting off a view
in that direction. East and west, I saw the valley country traversed by
the road--the loveliest little valleys imaginable, in which if seclusion
afforded happiness, one might be content to live, with a few friends
adjacent. The portion of the range upon which I stood; or rather sat on my
horse, was bare of trees, for an area of perhaps ten acres, gently rounded,
covered with wild flowers, and with soil enough upon it to admit of pleasant
residence. The sides of the ascent were covered with rocks, many of them
in slabs suitable for fire places. On the hill side and below, in the
little valley the grass was good. When we left next morning we thought our
road would lead over mountains, within a few miles, but they were on our left
all day, and after travelling 21 miles, we camped on a high prairie; in the edge
of timber, with a branch adjacent, 6 miles s. W. Perryville. It has been
very windy, and cool all day, many of the men wearing their blankets. In
the morning we passed through Perryville, a very small unattractive
village. There was a hospital at Perryville, and a Quartermasters dept,
Blacksmith shop etc. We camped 18 miles this side of Perryville, early in
the afternoon, our mules weary, and an axle to make. We were beside a
little branch in the prairie near the mountains, with good water and good
grass. We stayed until the evening of the next day, because eight miles
was as far as we could get, and find grass; unless we made a travel too great
for our train. At this camp, we got information of the advanced companies,
only a day and a half travel head. Their trip to North Folk town was 13
miles, and the nearest grass 21 miles, at the camp on our advance left that
morning. We crossed the main Canadian next morning, a broad shallow
stream, with wide sand banks in the bed, passed through North folk town three or
four miles beyond--not much town--crossed the North Canadian, a pretty stream,
broad, shallow, clear, and with little islets of grassy land in the bed, and at
1/4 before one p. m., reached the sought for camp ground, on a rocky
branch. The camp fires of our men were burning, and directly after our
arrival, fired the grass, which we found it necessary to extinguish. A
small branch, very rocky, with holes of water, was continuous to the camp.--In
one of these, the first water lillies I had seen for many a day, were in
bud. We met at North Folk town, Lt. Hancock of Capt. Harmon's company, and
learned that the advance would only pass on to Elk Creek, and that we would over
take them on Sunday.--We did so, finding them at this place, a mile or so beyond
Elk Creek. The locality is a pleasant one; grass good, water
tolerable. There are other troops here, whites and Indians.--We are within
14 miles of Fort Gibson, where the Federal Flag is waving on the opposite bank
of the Arkansas. The river is high, but there is occasional shooting
across, between the pickets. The Feds have a mixed force of whites,
Indians, and negroes at Gibson, and their commander Col. Phillips has been
scattering proclamations among the Creeks on this side, to induce them to
abandon the Confederacy. Their success has not been flattering.--The
Creeks allured a boat load of them nearly across the river a few days since,
intending to capture or kill the party; but as the boat neared this bank, the
prey looked so tempting they fired upon them prematurely, killed some, and
causing others to leap overboard, and be drowned. The current setting to
the opposite shore the boat drifted back, and the Creeks lost their
prizes. I do not know whether the Feds will bark much on the Creeks, after
that specimen of their allegiance.
Gen. D.
H. Cooper is in command here.--The Feds have four stores near Gibson; sell
Coffee at 25 cents per pound, and Calico at 25 cents per yard. Many of the
Indians from this side have been over to trade with them.--They are said to be
interesting. Our pickets are within two miles of Gibson. Yours,
A Soldier of the 29th.
P. S. We have been mining
for coal to-day, for our Blacksmiths got a good bituminous coal, six feet under
the surface; and about 6 miles from here.
Skip to June 16, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 16, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
We are
requested to state, that on the 24th of this month there will be a
Masonic provision after which a public address will be delivered.
The
ladies of the county have made arrangements for supplying a dinner where may be
expected a rich supply of good things.
In the
evening there will be a Concert, and Tableaux in the Presbyterian Church to
commence at early candle light.
The
public are respectfully invited to attend.
The entire proceeds to be appropriated to the relief of sick and wounded
Texas soldiers in Hospital.
The
admittance to the dinner to be one dollar, and to the Concert and Tableaux two
dollars and fifty cents.
Come
one, come all, and contribute your mite, in furtherance of an object so
glorious.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 16, 1863, p. 1, c. 1-4
Camp Davis, Coodey's Creek,
}
Cherokee Nation, May 29th, 1863
}
Dear Standard:
My
last was addressed to you from Butler's Creek.
I do not recollect how long ago.—Since then we have kept so busy, that
I have not felt inclined to write. On
the 14th our regiment was inspected, and received encomiums from Col.
Long, the Asst. Inspector General, attached to Gen. Holmes' staff. On the 14th a volunteer party of 40 of us went
with the Col., who was field officer of the day, to Inspect the Pickets on the
Arkansas, and made our first interchange of compliments with the Feds at the
several crossings. They fired upon
us at each exposure of a man's person on the bank of the river, and we returned
the fire with our largest range guns. We
tried them at two fords, and made them run back to their covers, at each.
Returned to camp just at dark, after a novel and interesting trip to us.
From the top of a mountain on our route, we had a fair view of Fort
Gibson, and the enemy's camps. On
the 16th, at night, Col. Martin Field Officer of the day, notified
the Col. that the enemy were crossing the river, and that he had sent a squadron
from his regiment. The Col. ordered Maj. Carroll to start instantly with Capt.
Hook's and Captain Wilson's companies, for the Rabbit ford, had all the other
companies got ready—horses under saddle and waited orders. At midnight the Gen. came over in person, and directed that
the remainder of the regiment—should be at the summit of the Grindstone
mountain; this side the Rabbit ford, at daylight.
Capt. Elliott, Red River and Bowie Co., had got in just before dark from
Arbuckle, and their horses were fatigued. They
were left as Camp Guard. The
remaining companies under the command of the Col., started at 1 o'clock a.m.,
and at five o'clock were on the crest of the hill.
Martin's regiment was there; Lee's Battery, and the advance of our
regiment. We lay down upon the
ground for an hour or half hour's rest and then rose and returned to camp.
The alarm was false, but demonstrated promptitude of movement upon our
part. Returning from the mountain, we stopped at a new camp ground
on Coodey's Creek, five miles from the river, a splendid situation—excellent
water, in large holls [sic], thoroughly shaded, and most luxuriant grass:
Camp Stonewall. Ever since our arrival, we had picketed several stations at
the river, and our men were to keep up an interchange of shots.
On this day, Capt. Hook's co. being at the Rabbit ford, Jim Johnston got
a ball from the enemy through the pistol holster at his side, which made him
feel for a minute as though he had been shot.
Some of our men saw one of the enemy fall after one of our shots, and saw
him carried off. Our guns are mostly ineffective at long range, but two or
three rifles, and some of the largest bore shot guns, loaded with balls, carry
over.
On the
26th our force was drawn out for attack, as we supposed. Col. Stand Watie with Cherokee regiments, and Col. McIntosh
with Creek regiment had crossed at daylight, and we supposed we would cross to
support them. About 10 a.m. the
Col. was ordered to lead the regiment to the crossing, at the Rabbit ford, and
make a show of crossing. Accordingly
we were led to the bank, and passed broadside to the pickets opposite, the col.
directing Capt. Oliver's company, stationed on this side to engage the pickets
on the other side. Firing commenced
by our pickets as our men came to the bank, and was rapidly answered from the
other side. The Col. led us in
column by the open space in the timber through which we were exposed fully to
the enemy, and continued to march us in a circle until we had passed it three
times. As the head of the column
came down the 2nd time the boys who did not know the nature of the
order, gave a tremendous yell, supposing that they were about to cross.
This they continued until Major Carroll took them back 150 yards and
formed them in line to wait further orders.
In the meantime the enemy had abandoned the opposite bank, and a half
hour after when the Col. went down
the bank with a guide, to learn the crossing, there was no one opposite to fire
a shot.
While
we were making our circular movement, however, the shots flew thick and
unceasingly. Horses first under
fire were hard to manage, and now and then some amiable rider seemed disposed to
keep on the safe side of a tree. The
instances are few, however. Nearly
all the men bore the exposure well, and but for the fact that the enemy's long
range guns carried over us, several must have been hit, it could not have been
otherwise. Their departure was
probably accelerated by a shot from the howitzer, made without order, the Lt.
who was training it receiving a bullet rather close to his head, which initiated
him. From the mountain near us a
lookout was kept up upon Col. Waties operations. It was seen that he had engaged the enemy, and cut off a lot
of their horses and mules, but as it was not apparent that we could unite with
him, we were ordered back two hundred yards, to the prairie where we slept with
our horses grazing under saddle, ready for quick movement.
In the morning, Col. Watie returned bringing some 500 head horses and
mules. Col. Waties men killed 40 or
50 of the Feds, and lost two. Our
men found a Creek crossing the river, who pretended to be one of McIntosh's men.
Sent him to Gen. Cooper. He
was a hostile. How he was disposed
of, I do not know. At eleven
o'clock we were ordered back to camp, to cook three days rations. At eleven next morning we moved to base of Grindstone Mt.,
and to Frozen Rock, and encamped; head qurs. at Frozen Rock. The deserted residence at Frozen Rock is a lovely place.
The house of six rooms, well fitted up, with furniture—numerous out
houses attached, is about 50 yards from the margin of a high bank, over looking
the Arkansas; at this point a stately stream, and makes a graceful bend at the
right, in full view of the portico of the house.
Before the house the surface of the ground is rounding, sloping to the
edge of the bank—then a steep descent to the river.
Before the house at regular distances, are black Walnut, and black
Locusts, natives here, and of large size, some large Catalfias [sic] in bloom,
cherry trees, and Pear trees. At
the left a garden in which are some hollyhawks [sic] and other simple flowers,
and to the left of that a large orchard of Apples in full bearing, but small
yet. In the rear is the handsomest Walnut and Locust Grove, of
large tall trees, interspersed with slippery Elm, that I have ever seen; look
like a park. On the right are
out-buildings and fields, and a lane with a winding path descending to the
river, on one side of which is a spring. It
is a very beautiful place. At the
left of it, a quarter of a mile is another residence.
Both were settled by brothers named Coody, one of whom is now here, and
lives near Kiamitia. The name
Frozen rock is derived from a porous slate bank of the river, between the two
houses, from which the water exceedes [sic], and in the winter time presents an
unbroken surface of ice.—This is a fertile country. The rains are frequent, and the dews the heaviest I have ever
known, except on the Lavaca, and in the West Indies. The grass after dark is wet as with a heavy rain, and
saturates one in staking out his horse; and sleep in the prairie with one
blanket over you and all your clothes on, and they woollen clothes, you get
quite cold toward morning, and your feet inside of heavy boots and with woolen
socks on, get cold. These dews and
the rains together must nurish [sic] vegitation [sic], and the grass is
luxuriant. Were it not our horses
would go under, and as it is they get some times when keptup [sic] a goop [sic]
deal, quite jaded. The enemy after
we moved to Frozen rock, we heard heavy and continuous firing and as we knew that
Col. McIntosh with his Creeks, and Col. Martin with his Texans, were to cross
the river, we thought perhaps the lively work had commenced.
At half past 4 next morning, got dispatch from commanding General,
ordering us to saddle up and be ready. The
order was disseminated instantly, and every body got ready.
During the morning two Osage Indians were brought in as prisoners.
They were endeavoring to go to the opposite of the river, and as our men
knew nothing about them, they brought them in.
They were perfectly self possessed and came up and shook hands with the
Colonel, and sat down before him. As
they came up some one remarked "would not the sight of those devils
frighten any body." They were
very large, partially necked [sic], with no covering to the head, but the hair
clipped short on each side before and a turft [sic] left in the centre two or
three inches long, standing upright, and red paint shown upon the scalp, each
side of this turf. Behind the head
were left some long locks, hanging down the back.
Inside of the outer ring of the ear, a long slip [sic] was cut out,
perhaps a fourth of an inch in width, from top to bottom, except at the centre,
where was a narrow connection. One
of them had a smiling expression, the other the most villainmous [sic]
expression I ever notices. I am
satisfied that any unprotected woman who should meet the two on a road, out of
sight of other persons would go into spasms in brief time.
The Col. ordered them to be sent to Gen. Cooper.
As they went off, the best looking one said "Cooper my friend."
I understood afterward, that they were in the General's service.
Co. K came in during the morning, from lower fords, with a mule which
some of the men had gone across the river and captured.
Capt.
Howland of the 1st Cherokee regiment and six of his men to act as
guides, reported at about 12 o'clock. The
last of our hospital left Arbuckle under Ass't Surgeon Rockiel, arrived.
Sunday
morning came—horses still razing with their saddles on, waiting for
orders.—Gunsmiths, and Blacksmiths hard at work, men cooking two days rations,
anxiously waiting to hear from the west of grand river, which empties into the
Arkansas west of Gibson.
On the
day previous opportunely came in Lt. Derrickson, from Pilot Point, with 49 men;
all stragglers from the camp, except 15 who were fresh conscript.
Still
waiting at 12 o'clock when order was received for five companies to mount and
march. Away we went toward the
Creek Agency, passing the remains of Cantonment Davis, nearly destroyed by the
enemy last year by two camps of Indians, and crossed the Arkansas, a wide stream
before the Agency which is a small hamlet, with fields around, with not much in
cultivation.
Four
hours after we left, the enemy who from some of their lookouts had a sight of
our men moving off, and thought our camp deserted—brought down their
artillery, a body of Cavalry, and of Infantry, to the Rabbit ford, a half mile
above our camp, and attempted a crossing. They
commenced shelling, feeling about for the camp, the exact locality of which they
did not know and threw two or three shells near it which hastened the departure
of the Artizans [sic], the Invalids, etc., with the camp equipage.
Capt. Elliott's Co. (I) was on duty at the ford, and sent down word for
reinforcements which they soon got. Maj.
Carrol, left in command hurried up Capt. Oliver's, Capt. Brown's, and Capt.
Waneu's Companies; the last under Lt. Littlejohn.
Capt. Matt Daughterty's company was detached, and not within call.
To our force was added a company or two of Martin's regiment, and 120 men
from Col. Watie. Our men were
judiciously stationed by Major Carrol, and a brisk little fight ensued.
The enemy soon commenced firing from the bank by the Infantry and under
cover of this the Cavalry attempted a passage, and came midway of the stream,
but became confused there and turned back.
The rattle of grape and musketry was rapid and sharp.
Maj. Carroll who has been in three or four actions previous, including
that at Elkhorn, says the hail of balls was thicker than he has ever seen
before. On our side it was well
answered, but from short range weapons. It
continued perhaps a quarter of an hour before the cavalry gave back dismayed
[sic?]. The infantry and Artillery
withdrew at dark. The bed of the river was so thoroughly enveloped in smoke,
that the effect produced by us could not be seen; but some horses without riders
were seen to go up the opposite bank. I
do not suppose however, that we killed many because they were afraid to come
within range and the fire of our men along the bank, except those directly
before the advancing party, must have been mostly wasted.
I would say that they fired too soon, only that Capt. Oliver, who was
right at the ford says he did not fire upon them until they showed an
uncertainty about venturing further than the middle of the stream.
As they came down the bank on their side they manifested a hesitancy, and
their officers never did get them to form in proper order, but were heard
coaxing and encouraging them, and telling them there was no danger from our
shotguns. This they did not believe evidently. They showed a salutary apprehension of them.
They did not harm a single one of our men—partly because they shot
above—all their artillery shooting went over; and partly because our men were
covered by trees, lying behind logs and others were more or less sheltered.
Thus terminated the effort to take the camp and train of the 29th.
Our
five companies under the Col. went on that night, got to the Verdigris at dusk,
sent a reconnoitering party across, filled the canteens, watered the horses and
went back a mile on the road in the prairie to superb grass.
Near the river the grass was scant, a farm being near.
Long
before day express men came in from the General bringing orders, accompanied by
letters from Cols. McIntosh and Martin. A
dispatch was immediately forwarded by the Col. toward Col. McIntosh, and an
order sent back for Choctaw detachments, authorized by Gen'l Cooper.
Before day, all were roused, mounted their horses and started.
Day was dawning as we crossed the Verdigris.
WE passed over into high rolling prairie country interspersed with high,
bald peaks, and made for one of these. The
men were concealed in a hollow. The
Col. and guides went up the peak, and saw in the distance, by the aid of a
glass, five men riding rapidly toward Gibson, and one mounted man standing
Picket at a lone tree. Kept the men
close to a small creek, out of sight, and pushed on east, with a view to cut off
detachments from Gibson, which might be coming out to reinforce a heavy train of
160 wagons from fort Leavenworth with supplies and sutlers stores.
Cols. McIntosh and Martin had been sent across to discover and attack the
train, and we to cut off reinforcements, or render such assistance as might be
needed. We could see no train nor
any force, nor hear any firing. Keeping
on our course, with our guides ahead, we saw after a while two men coming
towards us, then play off again, who finally ventured up to the four guides
ahead, and were found to be express riders—one of them the one who started
with the Col's dispatch, for col. McIntosh.
He told us Col. McIntosh had gone down toward Gibson, and directly we
found twelve single trails side by side, indicating the passage of his force.
We took the trail instantly, and followed rapidly, until we came to the
continuance [?] with the road from Leavenworth to Niven's ferry, from which the
Gibson road diverges. At the
junction Capt. Howland examined the road behind, and expressed the opinion that
the train had gone on. We rode for
a mile further, sending look outs up on the peaks, until Capt. Howland expressed
the opinion that Col. McIntosh must have retired.
All was quiet. We saw three
men in the distance who ran at the sight of us.
We saw where a single wagon had apparently been run on the road toward
the Verdigris. Found a horse,
saddle, and bridle at a branch near the road side, and near there a soldiers
coat, overcoat, cap and spurs. Capt.
Howland and the guides becoming more confident that there was a failure in the
execution of the plan, we obliqued to the right, to a prong of the Verdigris,
six or seven miles from Gibson and sent out Scouts—one party of 15 to
investigate whether Col. McIntosh had returned, who soon came back and reported
his trail tending to the crossing of Verdigris, and evidences of hasty movement
upon it. The other scouts under Lt.
Gunn, accompanied by Capt. Howland, had 20 men who were to be kept out of sight
as much as practicable; while Capt. Howland kept a lookout from the hills.
Soon after they left, the pickets from the hill before us reported as
probable a wagon and some men in the distance.
He was sent after Capt. Howland to call his attention, and whenever
certain, come back and report. In
¾ of an hour he came back and reported a wagon with 60 to 100 men, five miles
toward Gibson. Capt. Harmon was ordered to take his squadron (Capt. Tom
Daugherty Junior Capt.) and pursue, to be followed at a short distance by Capt.
Wilson—all to keep out of sight as long as practicable.
The Col. followed with two reserve companies at easy supporting distance,
with a view of presenting as much additional force as might be needed to meet
reinforcements for the wagon party, or any force out of sight connected with it.
The Col. was under the impression that a wagon so escorted had valuable
loadings, or might be the wagon run off by McIntosh's men recaptured.
Our men, all, rode rapidly. There
was not a great space between the advance and reserve and a lookout from the
reserve was kept ahead on hills right and left, to give the earliest notice of
need. At about five miles the pursuers came near the pursued, who
made some show of forming, but as Harmon gave the order to charge, they whipped
and spurred manfully and left without a shot or a blow for the credit of their
service. Our squadron came upon the
vehicle and found it a superb four mule ambulance; with a white duck cover,
which gave it the appearance of a wagon. The
driver tumbled out and drew a six shooter which he soon dropped when a shot gun
was brought to bear upon him. A
fellow inside was the driver says, was Lt. Col. Walter's of a negro
regiment—jumped out and could have been shot, but in attempting to make him
prisoner he got away, leaving his coat. We
took two horses and saddles which the riders left somewhat hastily.
The
vehicle soon came towards us. The
driver said he was looking for Capt. Rhodes of Wisconsin who had been captured
the day previous by McIntosh's scouts.
I
suppose this was true, as such an escort would not have accompany [sic] an
Ambulance for legitimated purposes. They
thought he might be killed or wounded. The
scene of our expected conflict was at Shaw's Cowpen 2½ miles from Gibson, and
the enemy say that the escort numbered 100 which was a greater number them [sic]
they saw of our men, both the scout sent out, being of Harmon's squadron.
Our boys were greatly elated by the running away of the foe, so near
their stronghold with its 3000 men, but did not incline to stay a great while
longer, lest they might be surrounded; there being a road from Gibson to the
creek agency, which would have led the enemy up between them and the crossing.
There was no pursuit however. We
went to our camp of previous right [sic?] beyond the Verdigris, grazed our tired
horses three hours, and crossed Arkansas that night. As
we crossed the broad stream we were hailed—had no countersign; but in answer
to the demand "who comes there," said, "Friends," and in
answer to the demand "What Friends" responded "Col. DeMorse's
command"—to which the reply was "Come on."
As we rose the steep bank, saw a large picket under arms, and were
greeted by the other half of the 29th, who, upon the hasty return of
the Creeks had been ordered up to support us in an emergency.
Some anxiety had been created by our solitary position, and Maj. Carroll
had been ordered up to do whatever might be necessary for our rescue.
We had not been alarmed, but as our brethren had been on our account it
was quite a greeting; and when our booty came up the bank, the picket gave such
a shout, that the creeks became excited, and Col. McIntosh came out and stopped
our progress to the prairie, until he could send word out through the hills in
rear, to prevent them from firing upon us.
The solution of the mystery was, that the creeks who had discovered the
train 160 wagons the evening before, very brightly guarded and had themselves
been discovered by the escort of the train; instead of attacking it at once, put
it off till morning the train availed itself of the night and travel so fast and
far, that one end of it was at Gibson, when the other end was attacked by
perhaps 100 of Martins men. The
enemy ran at first but soon seeking [sic?] the weakness of the attacking force,
rallied drove our men, who ran off three or four wagons, and got them to a
crossing of the Verdigris, below where we crossed, and there abandoned them.
Had we known where McIntosh's force was in the morning, at daylight we
could have got off a part of the train. Had
we been with them, or at the point we were striking for, between them and Gibson
on the night before, we could have saved all of it, and in that case Gibson
would now be ours, because without that trains [sic] they would have been
without supplies. Had we been
immediately notified of the movement of our main force downward, when it
commenced we could have been at the scene of action in time to have materially
altered its features! but as it
was, we travelled all day and saw where troops had been; and the only force we
could see, we chased. We have
nothing to regret on our part except the want of opportunity.
The
opposite pickets at Niven's ferry, got amiable yesterday, concluded that they
were doing no good, firing at each other at long distance, laid down their arms,
and went down to the water's edge, and had a talk.
The Feds asked about the wheat crops in Texas, said they did not have
much flour over there, no water except river water, and but little tobacco, but
they had Coffee and Whiskey.—Said we did right to take the ambulance—that it
had no business with an armed escort, and that the escort were afraid to fight,
and were 100 strong. Said they were tired of the war, and wished for peace.
Said their Creeks would not fight at all, said we had two or three good
long range guns. Asked where Gen'l
Cooper's headquarters were, and how many men we had.
Jack Coleman, formally [sic] a stage driver, on lines running out of
Clarksville, is with them.
In the
fight between Martins men and the train, Martin lost two men killed, and think
they killed several Feds. Feds shot
over them, or would have killed a large number. Capt. Jim Young thinks the pursuers killed several creeks.
The ambulance driver said he had carried in two bodies of each, but he is
evidently such a liar, there no is [sic] reliance to be placed in his statement.
He is a broad brogued Irishman; who claims to be British subject.
The
Arkansas rose yesterday until it is impossible by fording.
Yours,
A Soldier of the 29th.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 16, 1863, p. 3 [?], c. 2
Resumption.
Dr. G. H. Wootten has resumed the practice of Medicine to a limited
extent.
His
charges will be the MULTIPLE of former Clarksville rates—Medicines extra—and
payment at close of case.
The
public being thus notified, will employ, or decline at their option.
Having
a surplus of a hundred ounces of QUININE—doctors and citizens will be supplied
at low rates if early application is made.
May 15th,
1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 16, 1863, p. 3. c. 2
Drugs for Sale.
Opium, Morphine, Quinine, Blue Mass, Calomel, Ipicac, Dovers Powders,
Camphor, Aesafoetida, Rheubarb, Iodide of Potash, Nitrate of Silver, with a
variety of other Drugs and Medicines.
April 22d 1863
Clarksville, Texas.
John H. Morgan.
No. 3 8ts
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], June 16, 1863, p. 3, c. 4
$100 Reward.
Runaway from Jordan's Saline.
I will give the above reward for the apprehension and delivery or to have
apprehended & placed in any Jail so that I can get him.
A runaway negro of the following discription [sic] viz:
Black
color 5 feet 8 or 9 inches heavy set weighs about two hundred pounds—said
negro was brought from Missouri to Texas.
Address.
Jas. S. Moore.
Bonham Texas.
N.B.—Said
negro runaway from Jordons Saline company with four other negroes belonging to
John Anderson late from Mississippi.
Skip to July 4, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 4, 1863, p. 1, c. 2
The
proposed Concert & Tableaux for the benefit of our sick and wounded soldiers
in the various hospitals of the Confederacy, came off on the 24th
ult. Everything which distinguished
talent, taste, zeal and patriotism could contribute was done, to give eclat to
the occasion. The elegance and
chaste simplicity of the scenery to which every drawing room had contributed
created quite a pleasant surprise; while the patriotic music, heart stirring and
appropriate called down immense applause. The
tableaux's were skilfully [sic] devised and splendidly executed.
The Charade an original composition by a lady of Clarksville, the
solution of which was the name of the distinguished (GENERAL BEAUREGARD)
deserved and received the highest encomiums.
Such was the popularity of the representation that its repetition was
called for and was again exhibited on the 25th.
The presence of Hon. W. B. Wright and Murrah each of whom addressed the
audience gave additional interest to the occasion.
The proceeds of which approximated $1,600.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 4, 1863, p. 1, c. 2-3
Camp Prairie Springs, C. N. }
June 20th 1863.
}
Col.—I have the honor to report the following facts in relation to my command
in the engagement on Greenleaf Prairie on the 16th inst.; when
ordered out by you from the command with four companies of the 29th
Tex. Cav. (about 120 men) and Capt. Jno. Van with ten or twelve men for the
purpose of attacking a reported force of the enemy supposed to be about 100
strong. I did not march more than
one mile before I was led to believe that it was a false report, and not being
able to find the man who gave the report, I halted my command and reported to
you. In half an hour I heard the
firing between the scouts under Lieut. Heiston of the com'dg General's personal
staff, and the enemy's piquets. I
immediately formed my command and moved forward to Lt. Heiston's support, under
guidance of a courier who I met from him to you, supposing the entire command
would follow. Lt. Heiston had
driven their piquets into the timber before I arrived.
I was informed by Capt. Van, who knew the country that the enemy must be
on the east side of Greenleaf creek there being no crossing below, and being
misled by that information, I halted my command under cover of the timber.
I then sent Capt. Matt Daughterty with ten men of his company forward to
the front to make reconnoisance of the position of the enemy.
Capt. Van to my left to examine a crossing on Greenlief [sic] creek and
two other parties, one to the front and the other to the left, under Sergt.
Styles of company D, and Sergt. Hooker of company F and sent two couriers to you
to report. Sergeant Styles soon
returned and reported that he had been fired upon by the enemy's piquets. Sergt. Hooker returned in about fifteen minutes, and reported
the enemy in column seven companies strong on my left. I sent him back to observe their movements, and began posting
my men on foot under cover of the timber to fight them. Capt. Daugherty reported twice; the first that he had
discovered the enemy's piquets, and the second time when I was forming the
command to fight, reported a large column of the enemy with one howitzer passing
on my right with a view of gaining a position in my rear; I immediately began
falling back to gain a position in front of the column on my right at the foot
of the mountain, when the enemy attacked me upon the left. I ordered Capt. Oliver's Squadron into line and dismounted
it, which was promptly done, and just at that time Col. K Lieut. Littlejohn
com'dg was thrown into confusion losing all organization and not being
controlled by its officers, broke through Capt. Oliver's line, scattered his
horses and confused his men. Observing
the enemy still passing upon both my flanks and the courier I had sent to you
returned to report that he had been fired upon, and driven back by the enemy; I
again mounted my command, and fell back about one half mile.
Capt. Hooks with his company, D, passing under a heavy fire from the
enemy. I then formed under a heavy
fire, and charged the enemy on my right and front driving them back about four
hundred yards to their main column on my right.
They in turn rallied, and I was compelled to retire before superior
numbers which was done with some exceptions in good order by Capt. Oliver, Hooks
and Daugherty, company K, receiving no orders from the company officers
retreated in confusion. Whilst
falling back I was continually expecting to meet the command marching to our
support. After moving one mile we
came to the Choctaw line formed near the prairie in the woods.
While reporting to you the condition and number of the enemy, charge was
ordered; supposing the entire force would be engaged, I passed to the front and
right, expecting to find my command. Finding
no troops to sustain the right, and the enemy trying to turn our position by
that flank, I ordered Capt. Brown of Co. H, who informed me that he had no
command upon the field, to carry the Choctaws to our right, and drove back the
enemies left which with the assistance of Adjutant Les C. DeMorse was gallantly
accomplished; the Choctaws fighting like veterans.
The enemy were driven from every position for one mile leaving many of
their number upon the field dead. Among
them I noticed three negroes, upon the side of the mountain.
They rallied upon their howitzer, about 400 strong.
I ordered company C, Capt. Harmon com'dg who I found on the left of the
Choctaws forward with a view of capturing the howitzer.
Capt. Harmon dismounted his men within seventy five yards of the Gun, and
with the support of about 200 Choctaws drove the enemy about thirty yards from
it, when the Choctaws were thrown into confusion and began slowly to retire.
I attempted with the assistance of Lieut. Col. Parks of the 1st
Cherokee to rally them in which we failed, and noticing the enemy were beginning
to close in on our right, I retired slowly and in good order; feeling satisfied
that with one more company I could have taken and held the howitzer.
The
enemy having gained a position between me and the river and being in ignorance
as to the remainder of the command with the enemy in position between me and
them, and only fifty men with me; I moved across the prairie to the timber, and
thence I marched to the mouth of Canadian, to cross the river, at which place I
found the command.
In
closing my report I cannot forbear mentioning the gallant conduct of Capt.
Oliver & Sergt Hooker of Company "F" Capt. Matt Daugherty of
company "E" and the men of the companies of both Captains rallying and
forming twice under a heavy fire, charging the enemy in the face of superior
numbers with the coolness of long tried troops. Capt. Hooks company "D" behaved with coolness and
courage. To Lieut. T. B. Heiston of
the Gen. staff I am indebted for valuable services it is sufficient to say he
sustained his well earned reputation. Too
much cannot be said of the gallant conduct of Capt. Harmon and his men, the last
upon the field they maintained the unequal contest against overpowering numbers
until I brought them off the field in person.
When nearest the enemy, Lieut. Gunn was conspicuous in front of his
company encouraging his men by word and action, Captain Young, Martins Regiment
and Adjutant L. C. DeMorse of our regimental staff acted gallantly throughout
the engagement.
We had
six men killed and three wounded among the wounded is Dr. Smith of the medical
staff who bore himself gallantly upon the field. Lieut. Derickson of Co. K; who was on piquet when the action
began with the men of his company reached the field in time to join in the last
charge and acted with coolness and courage.
I have since been informed that the Choctaws were thrown into confusion
by mistaking orders. I stopped some
men when about to fire upon Captain Harmon's company and told them that they
were friends which being heard by some Choctaws on my right caused the
confusion. I hope the past may be a
lesson to company officers to better discharge their duties.
Respectfully
J. A. Carroll, Maj.
29th Tex. Cavalry.
Col. Chas. DeMorse
Commanding
Skip to July 18, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 18, 1863, p. 1, c. 1-3
Head Qrs. 29th Tex. Cavalry,
}
Camp 1st Brig. Indian Territory,
}
Prairie Springs C. N., }
June 21st 1863.
}
Brig. Gen'l D. H. Cooper com'dg
In
conformity to your order of Saturday night the 13th inst., I started
on Sunday morning the 14th, with 8 companies of my regiment and 8
companies of the 1st Chicasaw [sic] Choctaw REgt's ordered by you to
report to me and moved to Hildebrands ford on the Arkansas.
There, after examining the crossing and sending for the flat above, I
commenced at about 12 o'clock to cross the force, numbering 1st
Choctaw and Chickasaws 427, the 29th T. C. 325, making 752.
To these were added a few guides under Capt. Jno. Vann, and a few under
Lieut. Brewer, 1st Cherokee Regt.
The strength of my own companies was much reduced by distempered horses. At Hildebrands Ford Col. Parks at my request joined me to
render the service I had expected to receive from Capt. Brewer, who was directed
to report to me, but was too unwell for service.
That evening about 120 men got across, and Captain Brown with Co. H, was
pushed northward to the edge of Greenlief prairie, and Capt. Vann with 12 men,
was directed to scout in accordance with his judgement.
By Monday night nearly the entire force was across the Arkansas, and
crossing myself, I took up the line of march, and camped half a mile beyond the
Chalybeate springs about five and one half miles north west of Hildebrands in
some timber near the edge of a small prairie adjacent to Greenlief Prairie.
At dawn of day moved to hill sides in the west of Greenlief prairie, and
hearing that a few Federals had been seen on the main road from Hildebrands,
from which we had diverged to the left the evening previous, Lt. Heiston with
some 30 men went on a reconoisance [sic], and reported the enemy not exceeding a
company. Upon this information
ordered Major Carroll, with two squadrons Capt. Hook's companies D. & K. Capt. Olivers companies F. & E., to proceed to the
locality, and capture the enemy. I
then posted Company B, commanded by Lt. A. G. Bone, under guidance of Lieut.
Brewer to the left of the road to Gibson, and near old man Brewer's place, and
sent two other guides with Co. A, Capt. T. W. Daugherty, to the telegraph road.
Keeping most of the company in a thicket on the left, The [sic] main body
of my force was then moved to the right along the edge of Greenlief Prairie to
the south west corner of the prairie a distance of half a mile, and formed on an
elevation just within the line of timber, Commanding [sic] a view of the
prairie, and convenient to movement or resistance, to approaches from Gibson or
Talequah. Here the men were ordered to graze their horses, keeping them
within immediate reach, the grass being good and they insufficiently grazed the
night previous. The Choctaws were
faced to the rear for that purpose. The
horses had been released perhaps ten minutes, and Lieut. Col. Parks had gone out
to post a piquet; I was myself sitting at the root of a tree, and pacing to the
front preparing to answer a dispatch just received from you; when the firing
became audible, was frequently repeated, soon approached rapidly, and heavy,
just then I received a note from Maj. Carroll,
stating that the enemy was in strong position, and more numerous than had been
supposed, probably 1000 Cavalry, and suggesting an advance.
I sent an order to Capt. Harmon who was formed on the left, to advance
instanter, put my writing implements in my pocket, and my saddle equipments on
horse, to lead the main body. Just
then the greater portion of the detachments, under Maj. Carroll, fell back to
us, under orders from him and the enemy pressing on in superior numbers came in
sight of the Choctaws with their reversed line forcing them.
The Choctaws seeing them in the rear, and through the timber [which I had
not] without waiting an order commenced firing, and running forward in large
numbers with great alacrity, forced them back to their original position and
then commenced charging on their six pound howitzer in conjunction with Capt.
Harmon's men under Major Carroll, which seemed to have failed through
misapprehension; and before I could get to the front, and see the enemy's main
position, most of my force had fallen back, and I was compelled to attend to its
reformation; having not a single assistant: Lt. Col. Parks, Major Carroll, the Adjutant, Capt. J. D.
Young (of Martin's Reg't) upon whom I relied as an aid and even the Sgt. Major
being all absent. Capt. Harmon and
company were all missing, Capt. Brown, whose company had been cut up into small
piquet forces, and who had been assisting in leading the Choctaws, and Surgeon
Reed, were also missing. A rear
piquet of 15 men (Capt. Harmon) came in at this time and I sent it with Lts.
Derickson and Pearce to examine the battle field, and search for the officers;
and Capt. Harmon's company, I could get no word from the front, and after
waiting an hour and a half, Lt. Heiston saw a force at a distance in the
prairie, going before us toward Gibson, which I believed to be the enemy
retreating. Lt. Brewer of the
guides just then coming down from the piquet station on the road to Gibson. I ordered an immediate movement with a view to cut them
off—Lt. Brewer let us by a defile, which shortened the route; and struck into
the main road not far from the Bayou mountain.
We were too late. The enemy
had preceded us, and the track of his returning cannon was apparent.
I crossed the road, and taking up the mountain to within half a mile of
lookout point, preceded with the advance guard, under a guide, to that point,
and for an hour watched the movement of the enemy.
I saw their retreating column just below us, going in, jaded, and some of
it on foot, successive detachments coming out, the first with wagons, and the
last being the fourth or fifth, the largest constituting in all, a force rather
larger than I wished to attack. I
proceeded across to the Fort Smith route, with the intention of going over the
mountain, north of Gibson, toward 14 mile creek.
As we neared the Fort Smith road, I was notified that the Federals were
within three hundred yards. The
Choctaws were advancing and at my order rode forward and formed very promptly
and upon my suggesting to keep silence, made not a single outcry.
I rode back as rapidly as possible and brought up my own regiment, on the
right, and about the time they were formed, learned that the force of the enemy
was only about thirty (30) men. I
then ordered an immediate pursuit by Capt. Oliver's squadron, and five were
taken prisoners and one killed. The
others retreated toward Gibson, and escaped.
The men taken were in advance.
The
rear probably got sight of our force in good time.
They were a scout from the Kansas 6th, going upon Greenlief
prairie. At this point Lieut.
Brewer advised me that neither my horses, nor his own, would hold out for the
trip toward Grand river, and I reluctantly ordered a movement down the Ft. Smith
road, to take in a piquet of 30 men, said to be at Flakes or Lacy Milsom's.
We found none at either place, though usually kept their [sic]
heretofore; and we hurried through a defile in the mountains towards Mackey's
Saline, and encamped at night within a quarter of a mile of the Illinois river.
Our horses were much jaded, and foot sore, from the rocky route through
the mountains. In the morning we
started for Webber's falls; there being no road to Hildebrands, where I desired
to go. At Webber's falls, found the
river swimming, and learned from one of Col. Waties men on the opposite side,
that he had crossed at the mouth of the Canadian river the day previous.
This explained the presence of the enemy's force where we found it.
Finding
that the route to Hildebrand's was narrow, bushy, and very rocky for 15 miles
and that the road to the mouth of the Canadian was better, and only the distance
of nine miles I moved to the mouth of the Canadian, and crossed.
Commenced crossing at ½ past 12, and got over the last of the command at
11 o'clock next morning. Just as I
had crossed the rear guard, all our missing officers, and Capt. Harmons company
came in. Thence (stopping and resting my wearied horses, and killing
beef for my hungry men,) I came to brigade camps, at 12 m, on Friday the 19th.
Had we
known at the outset; the true position and strength of the enemy, we should
easily have killed or captured their entire force, but being deceived as to
their strength, and mistaken as to their position, and after its ascertainment
and the falling back on both sides, all my guides being cut off, and time lost
before others came in, I missed a capture which I feel that my force would have
commanded. I have to speak in
commendation of most of the officers and men of my command; Lieut. Col. Parks,
Major Carroll, Capt. J. D. Young (Martin's Regt.) Capt. Oliver, Daugherty,
Harmon, Brown and Hook's and Lts. Guinn and Derrickson, and Lt. R. P. duty, who
had brought out six men from company I, seem especially to have distinguished
themselves; in the embarrassing contest, with a concealed enemy, far out
numbering them. The companies of
Capt. Oliver, Daugherty, and Harmon, acted gallantly. The Choctaws were notably prompt and gallant not merely in
the portion of the action, which they sustained, but subsequently, when other
actions were expected, showed promptness and alacrity.
I
cannot particularize their officers, as I do not know many of them, but I
learned during our short conjunction to recognize as reliable Capt. Loring who
commanded them in chief, Capt. Kribbs, Capt. Pitchlyn, Capt. Benton and Lieut.
Winship. Lieut. Heiston, of your
staff, who assisted Capt. Loring in the field management, was always quick and
watchful. Of Lt. Col. Parks it is
sufficient to say, that he tried to get up a charge on the enemy's artillery and
did rally and lead a body of the Choctaws, while himself without a single weapon
for assault or defence.
I
trust we may have an opportunity soon again, to accomplish more, aided by better
luck, or greater knowledge of localities, which were all new to me.
Our
loss in killed is ten, including whites and Choctaws and eight wounded, two of
them slightly. The enemy
undoubtedly murdered one of our men after he had surrendered; a party of perhaps
20 whites and Indians riding up and riddling him with balls when his gun was
thrown down, and his hands raised for quarter.
Had I known it in time, I might not have troubled you with the Cherokee
and the five white men sent in.
The
enemy must have lost about 20 or 30. They
packed away the bodies in their ambulances, except three (3) negroes and one
Indian.
Their
force was seven good looking companies; probably 525 men. Against these, under cover, and flanking us on two sides, the
contest in which most of our men were killed was made by 120 of our men, much
exposed.—By his courage, and presence of mind, Serg't Hooker of company F,
when dismounted and nearly surrounded by the band which killed Robertson (the
man who had surrendered) preserved his own life.
Killing one enemy by the discharge of one barrel of his gun, he reserved
the other, and challenged the pursuers. They
would not come near him, but kept shooting at long range; perforating his
clothes, and shooting way the breech of his gun. Concealing this mishap by keeping the gun in a position that
they could not see its unavailableness, he finally got away.
Another dismounted man of the same company, John Turner, was killed,
after certainly killing two of the enemy, perhaps more as he discharged his gun
several times. Reference is made to
the accompanying report of Maj. J. A. Carroll, for a full comprehension of the
action of his detachment, and to the report of Capt. Loring, commanding the
Choctaws, relative to their action, while not under my immediate observation.
Very Respectfully
Charles DeMorse,
Comd'g. 29th Tex. Cav.
P.S.—Tuesday
morning 23d June, 1863.
I have
withheld the delivery of this report to wait the return of Maj. Carroll, field
officer of the day, from Niven's point, having heard that the federals were
communicating with our pickets. Yesterday
Lt. Williams, federal field officer of the day, informed Lt. Mosely, company
"G" 29th Tex. cavalry, stationed at Niven's point, that
they had at the fort two prisoners of the 29th Tex. Cavalry, taken at
the action on Greenlief one of them seriously wounded; and acknowledged a belief
that one of our men had been murdered after being taken prisoner, but charged it
upon the Pins, and as contrary to orders. Lt.
Williams states the federal loss in the action as killed 10 whites, 15 Pins, 3
negroes, 29 wounded, states also that they have two Choctaw prisoners.
This
makes the comparative result as follows:
Federal
Loss.
Confederate
Loss.
Killed
28.
Killed 8.
Wounded
29.
Wounded 8.
Prisoners
6.
Prisoners 4.
Total
63.
Total 20.
Lt.
Williams states that they had 1200 men and one howitzer on Greenlief.
One division of this force we engaged.
The other division was fast encircling Capt. T. W. Daugherty, with Co.
"A" stationed near the Telegraph road, when he discovered the
situation, was led out by his guides, and recrossed at Hildebrands that evening.
Very Respectfully
Charles DeMorse.
Col Comdg 29th T. C.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 18, 1863, p. 2, c. 3
Thirty Dollars
Reward for a
Deserter.
R. A. A. Carleton a private in Comp. I, 29th Regt, Texas Cav,
5 feet 8 inches high, fair complexion, blue eyes, and light hair, has deserted
his company. The said R. A. A.
Carleton was formerly a clerk in the Land Office at Austin.
Thirty dollars reward will be paid for his apprehension, and delivery at
the Head Quarters of this Regt. The
enrolling officer of Travis County is requested to have him arrested, he is
believed to be now in the vicinity of Austin Texas.
W. R. Elliot
Capt. Com. Co. I 29th Tex. Cav.
Camp
Prairie Springs.
Cherokee
Nation.
June
25th, 1863.
THIRTY
DOLLARS REWARD, for a Deserter Asa Ward, a private in comp. I, 29th
Regt. Texas Cav, 5 feet 10 inches high, dark complexion, dark eyes, and dark
hair, has deserted his company. The
said Asa Ward is a resident of Red River County. Thirty dollars reward will be paid for his apprehension or
delivery at the Head Quarters of this Regiment.
W. R. Elliott.
Capt Com'dg Co I. 29th Reg. Tex. Cav.
Camp
Prairie Springs, Cherokee Nation,
June
27th, 1863.
THIRTY
DOLLARS REWARD Will be paid for each of the following deserters.
W. C. Aikins, Comp I 29th Regt. Texas Cavalry, 5 feet 10
inches high, dark complexion, dark eyes and dark hair.
G. W. Tubbs, six feet high, fair complexion, blue eyes and light hair.
G. W. Moore 5 feet 11 inches high dark complexion, dark eyes; and dark
hair, some spots of gray hair on the back part of his head.
C. M. Holmes six feet high, fair complexion blue eyes and light hair.
The
said W. C. Akin & G. W. Tubbs are residents of Bowie Co Texas.
C. M. Holmes a resident Lafayette Co. Ark.
G. W. Moore a resident of Red River Co. Tex.
Thirty
dollars reward will be paid for the apprehension and confinement of each or
their delivery at the Head Quarters of this Regiment.
W. R. Elliott.
Capt Com. Co. I 29th Tex. Cav.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 26, 1863; August 6, 1863;
August 11, 1863 [illegible]; August 20, 1863, Note: Almost nothing but legal notices and advertisements
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 5, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
Head-Quarters, 29th Tex. Cav. }
Camp Watie, C.
N.
}
August 29th,
1863.
}
Sir:--
Having read
your official report of the battle of Elk Creek and deeming that more explicit
acknowledgement is due for valuable services rendered by a tried, and always
reliable officer, I beg leave to call your attention to facts, a full knowledge
of which is alone necessary--I am satisfied to your official recognition of the
services referred to. You mention that Lieut. Col. O. G. Welch commanding
the 29th Texas Cav., after my withdrawal from the field in consequence of a
wound, was cut off, with a portion of the command. Inferentially it would
appear that he had been in a hazardous position; but it should be explicitly
known, that with the left of the Regiment he retained his position upon the line
of battle, until all other force had withdrawn, the right of my regiment
included--that he then deliberately marched the men under his charge, to the
ravine or branch, in the rear, where it had been understood that the second line
of defence should be made; and after posting his men there, waiting a few
moments, and discovering that his little force was entirely unsupported on the
right, or on the left, and the enemy who had forced back the right, were already
in rear as well as in front, he moved by the left flank, through the timber
skirting the creek, and too late to overtake the horses of the command, marched
on foot to the west of our regimental camp ground, and thence to North Fork town
as mentioned in your report. For cool, courageous, deliberate action, I am
satisfied, he is as well entitled to specific and honorable mention, as any
officer on the field that day, and I desire also that it shall clearly appear
that the 29th Texas cavalry, did its whole duty, as it has done on every field
into which it has been called, & that it was beyond all question the last of
the army to leave the field. This is the more important; as reports of the
fight have gone out, in which the regiment is not recognized as having been in
it, when in fact its participation was not secondary to that of any other force
engaged but both in the original formation of the line, and the subsequent
defence of the train, was of the first importance.
Very Respectfully,
(signed)
Charles DeMorse,
Col Com'dg 29th Tex. Cav.
Gen'l D. H. Cooper.
Commanding
1st Brigade.
Head-Quarters 1st
Brigade. }
Ca,[ Watie, Aug. 29th,2863 [sic] }
Respectfully
forwarded for Gen Steel's information, with the request that this report
from col. DeMorse may be transmitted to Dept. Hd. Qrs., and made part of
my official report of the affair at Elk Creek on the 17th July last.
I will add my testimony to the invariable good conduct of Lt. Col. Welch,
who served formerly in my regiment as Captain of a company of Texas Cav., and on
several occasions, was distinguished, and is always, in case of danger, cool,
collected, and brave.
[Signed]
D. H. Cooper.
Brig. Gen'.l
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 12, 1863, p. 1, c.
1-4
Hd-Qrs. 1st Brigade I. T.
Imocluah Creek Near Canadian.
August 12th, 1863.
General.
My official report of the affair at Elk Creek on the 17th
ult., has been delayed in consequence of the movements of the troops under your
command, and the difficulty of getting correct reports from subordinate
officers, of the killed and wounded. Referring
to my note of the 18th ult. I now have the honor to submit the
following.
On the
15th of July, reports were sent to me from the Officer in charge of
Piquets on Arkansas River, that it had become fordable above the mouth of
Verdigris—that federal officers were seen examining the fords, that the two
spies, Clark & Lane, formerly employees in the Qr-Mrs. Dept. at Forts
Arbuckle and Cobb who imposed themselves upon you and thereby obtained
permission to enlist in the Brigade, had reached Gibson—that they had been at
the agency examining that Ford &c. &c. &c.
Believing there was a probability that the attack might be made upon me
before Gen. Cabell's arrival, whose movements were known to these spies, or at
all events that a heavy scout might be sent across to capture the Piquets on the
Arkansas, I directed their concentration on Coody's Creek, with instructions to
send videttes to the different Fords.
Early
on the 6th ult information reached me that the Federals were crossing
in force at the Creek Agency. Col.
Tandy Walker commanding 1st C & C Regiment, and Capt. Gillett
Comdg. Squadron T. C. with their commands, accompanied by Lt. Heiston A. D. C.
& A. A. A. G. were ordered out in the direction of the Chimney Mountain
where the roads to Creek Agency & to Gibson intersect, with orders to send
out small parties of observation on both roads & to withdraw the Piquets
from Coody's Creek. Up to this time
I had been unable to determine whether the force which crossed at the Creek
Agency was merely a heavy scout, or the advance of the main body of the enemy.
About two or three hundred had been reported moving from the Creek Agency
down the River to Nevins and Rabbit Ford near Frozen Rock, who were supposed no
doubt, still to be there. About
daylight on the morning of the 17th the advance of the enemy came in
sight of the position occupied by the Choctaws and Texians, commenced a brisk
fire upon them, which was returned and followed by a charge, which drove the
enemy back upon the main column.—Lt. Heiston reported the morning cloudy and
damp, many of the guns failing to fire, in consequence of the very inferior
quality of the powder of the cartridges becoming worthless even upon exposure to
damp atmosphere. Soon after
the Federals had been driven back, it commenced raining heavily, which rendered
our arms wholly useless.
These
troops then fell back slowly & in good order to camp, for the purpose of
obtaining a fresh supply of ammunition and preparing for the impending fight; a
few remained with Lt. Heiston at Prairie Mountain about three miles north of
camp on the Gibson road and were so disposed as to create the impression on the
enemy that a large force was there awaiting them. Accordingly their advance halted until the main body came up
and formed in Line of Battle, thus affording my aid opportunity to form an
estimate of their strength. He
reported their force to be probably 4000, which I found nearly correct, though
some 500 under the mark.
After
ascertaining that the enemy were advancing in force, orders were issued to the
officers commanding Corps to prepare for immediate action and take their
positions, all which had been in anticipation of an attack previously defined by
General Order No. 25 to copy of which marked A herewith, reference is made.
Capt.
Lee's Light Battery had been moved up on the Gibson road the evening previous
intending it to go with the scout under Col. Walker, but owing to some
misunderstanding or neglect in delivering the order, the scout left without it.
Col. Bass with his regiment was ordered forward to support Lee's battery,
Scanland's squadron and Gillett's squadron were directed to support the Creeks,
at the upper crossing of Elk Creek and Col. Walker to hold his regiment in
reserve at their camp near Honey Springs, sending Piquets out on the road across
the mountain in the direction of prairie Springs.
Having
made the arrangements I rode forward to the position north of Elk Creek where
Capt. Lee's Light Howitzer battery had been posted and found it supported by
Col. Bass' Regiment, (20th Texas dismounted Cav.) by a portion of the
2d Cherokee Regt. and a body of Skirmishers on the right under Command of Capt.
Hugh Tinnin of the 1st Cherokee Regt. the remainder of the Cherokee
Regiments being near the Creek. A
movement of the enemy on my right was discovered and Capt. Tinnin reported that
the skirmishers would soon be engaged. One
half of col. Bass Regt. under captain Johnson was then ordered to the right, to
support Capt. Tinnin, and I rode over to their position and found movements of
officers that there was a body of Troops on my extreme right.
A part of the 2d Cherokee regiment just returned from a scout to Prairie
Springs, who were getting breakfast at camp, were then ordered up, and a
messenger sent for half of the Choctaw regiment, which soon arrived, and were
placed also on the right along the edge of the prairie.
Upon reconnoitering the enemy (from the high prairie, where I had a full
view of them) then advancing upon the Gibson road, I found their force larger
than reported by Lieutenant Heiston, and larger than I supposed they would bring
from Gibson, and seeing a heavy force wheeling off to their right, and taking
the road up the creek to the second crossing above the bridge—our weakest
point, and from which the road continues up to the third crossing where the
Creeks were posted. I returned to
the main road—sent orders to the Creeks to move down and support colonels
DeMorse and Martin, who were directed to support Colonel Bass, and if possible
flank the enemy on our left. I then
rode to where I expected to find the Choctaws in order to bring them to the
support of Colonel Bass' command and the battery which was engaged with that of
the enemy. Colonel Walker mistaking
the order had moved off on the mountain several miles with his whole force
instead of sending a piquet. Messengers
were sent after him, and he returned promptly, but too late for the defence of
the bridge. Riding back near the
creek, I discovered our men in small parties giving way—these increased until
the retreat became general. Colonel
Bass' regiment, and Captain Lee's Battery after a most gallant defence of their
position were compelled to fall back. Colonel
DeMorse's regiment and Colonel Martin's on the left, also retiring—except a
few who were cut off from the main body. We
have to mourn the loss of many brave officers and men who fell here,
sacrificing their lives in opposition to an overwhelming force; to save our
little battery—all of which was brought off except one Howitzer dismounted by
the heavy Ordnance of the enemy. Colonel
Martin, who retired in good order across the creek, when the line along the
prairie gave way near the battery, was ordered to hold the ford above the
bridge, but seeing the whole right wing falling back from the Bridge and below
it. Colonel Martin was withdrawn
and ordered to fall back to Honey Springs. Our forces were now in full retreat and the enemy pressing
them closely. The Texans under
Scanland's and Gillett's command were ordered to join me at Honey Springs, and
the Creeks to withdraw from the extreme left, and also concentrate at the same
place. Colonel Bass' and Colonel
DeMorse's regiment, a part of which under Major Carroll had reached their
horses, were directed also to rally at the same place.
The
remainder of this regiment under Lt. Colonel Welch who bravely maintained his
position on the North side of the creek too long to rejoin, were cut off and
compelled to make a circuit via North Fork Town, to this camp.
Captain Gillett's Squadron arriving promptly was formed on the road and
for a short time held the advance of the enemy in check.
The Choctaws under Colonel Walker opportunely arrived at this time, and
under my personal direction charged the enemy, who had now planted a battery
upon the timbered ridge about 1000 yards north of Honey Springs.
With their usual intrepidity, the Choctaws went at them, giving the war
whoop and succeeded in checking the advance of the enemy until their force could
be concentrated, & all brought up. The
Choctaws discouraged on account of the worthless [sic] of the ammunition, then
gave way—and were ordered to fall back with the others in rear of the train,
which had moved off in an easterly direction, covered by our troops, who
remained formed for hours in full view of the enemy; thus giving the train time
to gain some 6 or 8 miles on the road to Briar
town; which had been indicated by yourself as the route by which reinforcements
would be sent.
Too
much praise cannot be awarded the troops, for the accomplishment of the most
difficult of all military movements—an orderly and successful retreat, with
little loss of life, or property in the face of superior numbers, flushed with
victory.
The
retreat of the forces under my command eastward instead of South,
completely deceived the enemy; and created as I anticipated, the impression that
reinforcements from Fort Smith were close at hand, and that by a detour
in rear of the mountain east of Honey Springs, our forces might march upon
Gibson, and destroy it, while Gen'l Blunt was away with the whole Federal force.
Under the influence of this reasonable fear, Gen. Blunt withdrew his
forces and commenced a hurried march for Gibson.
North
Fork, where we had a large amount of Commissary stores was thus saved, as well
as the whole of the train, except one ambulance purposely thrown in the way of
the enemy by the driver. A quantity
of flour; some salt and sugar, were necessarily burned at Honey springs, there
being no transportation for it. Our
loss was 137* killed and wounded [at bottom of page: Note--*Since ascertained to be 142], and 47 taken prisoners,
while that of the enemy exceeded, as I learn from one of our Surgeons who was at
Gibson, when Gen. Blunt's forces returned, two hundred.
I feel
confident we could have made good the defence of the position at Elk Creek, but
for the worthlessness of our ammunition.—The Choctaws who had skirmished with
the enemy on the morning of the 17th returned wet and disheartened,
by finding their guns almost useless, and there was a general feeling among the
troops that with such ammunition it was useless to contend with a foe doubtless
superior in numbers, arms and munitions, with artillery ten times superior to
our's—weight of metal considered. Notwithstanding all these untoward circumstances, the men of
Col. Bass' Regiment stood calmly and fearlessly to their posts in support of
Lee's Battery until the conflict became a hand to hand one, even clubbing their
muskets, and never giving way until the Battery had been withdrawn; and even
when defeated and in full retreat the officers and men of different commands
readily obeyed orders, formed, falling back, and reforming at several different
positions as ordered—deliberate and coolly.
Their steady conduct under these circumstances evidently intimidated the
foe, and alone enabled us to save the train, and many valuable lives.
The Creeks under Col. D. N. McIntosh, at this juncture behaved
admirably—moving off in good order, slowly and steadily across the North Fork
road, in full view of the enemy, they contributed greatly to the safe retreat of
the train and Brigade.
Among
the officers who were distinguished for gallantry and good conduct; Col. T. C.
Bass and Capt. R. W. Lee, were particularly conspicuous. Col. DeMorse's conduct though suffering under a severe wound,
has been represented to me as all that should characterize a brave man.
Col. Martin for his coolness and good management of his command,
deceiving the enemy as to his real strength, and preventing our left from being
turned, deserves great credit. Capt. Gillett behaved with his usual gallantry.—Maj.
Carroll was active and prompt in bringing his men into line to cover the
retreat. Col. Walker and his
Choctaws behaved bravely as they always do.
Capt. Hanks of Bass' regiment was also distinguished for his gallantry,
being dangerously wounded while carrying orders which I had sent to Col. Bass to
draw the right wing to his support, and the lamented Capt. Malloy of the same
Regt. fell mortally wounded soon after having delivered my order to his Col. to
move DeMorse's and Martin's regiments, up on the right flank of the enemy—who
were advancing upon the Battery at the centre.
Captain
Johnson who commanded a detachment from Col. Bass' Regt., came under my
immediate notice. His conduct was
at the most trying time cool and collected; that of a brave man and a good
officer. The nature of the ground
precluded the possibility of personally observing all the movements of our
troops and the conduct of the men and officers. Among those who are mentioned with praise by their immediate
commanding officers, are Captains Hugh Tinnin, J. L. Butler and Jas. Stewart, 1st
Cherokee Regt. Adjt. L. C. DeMorse
29th Tex. Cavalry. Lt.
Henry Forrester and Sergt. J. Riley Baker, Lee's Light Battery.
Lt. A. G. Ballinger 2nd Cherokee regiment, killed.—And
acting Serg't Maj. J. H. Riorson of Bass' regiment.
Sergt Henry Campbell, Flag bearer of the same regiment, was particularly
distinguished for his gallant conduct during the action.
Mr. P. A. Blackstone, after being severely wounded, succeeded in
repulsing three of the enemy who attacked him, killing one of them and taking
his gun which he brought off with him together with his own, closely pursued by
the enemy, after the greater portion of our troops had left the Field.
Of my
personal staff Lt. T. B. Heiston, A. D. C. & A. A. A. Gen'l all speak in the
highest terms. He was on this as on
all former occasions whenever duty called, conspicuous for his gallant bearing.
My son
Douglas H. Cooper, Jr., A. A. D. C. mentioned favorably by Col. Bass in his
report for his good conduct while conveying my orders amidst the thickest of the
fray. I am also indebted to Samuel
A. Robinson for valuable assistance in carrying orders.
Referring
to accompanying reports for further details and to list of killed and wounded.
I am General
Respectfully,
Douglas H. Cooper,
Brig. Gen.
Brig. Gen. Wm. Steele,
Commanding
Dept.
Ind. Territory.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 12, 1863, p. 1, c. 4
Head-Quarters, 29th Tex. Cav.
}
Camp Watie, C. N.
}
August 29th, 1863.
}
Sir:--
Having
read your official report of the battle of Elk Creek, and deeming that more
explicit acknowledgement is due for valuable services rendered by a tried, and
always reliable officer, I beg leave to call your attention to facts, a full
knowledge of which is alone necessary—I am satisfied, to your official
recognition of the services referred to. You
mention that Lieut. Col. O. G. Welch commanding the 29th Texas Cav.
after my withdrawal from the field in consequence of a wound, was cut off, with
a portion of the command. Inferentially
it would appear that he had been in a hazardous position; but it should be
explicitly known, that with the left of the Regiment he retained his position
upon the line of battle, until all other force had withdrawn, the right
of my regiment included—that he then deliberately marched the men under his
charge, to the ravine or branch, in the rear, where it had been understood that
the second line of defence should be made; and after posting his men there,
waiting a few moments, and discovering that his little force was entirely
unsupported on the right, or on the left, and the enemy who had forced back the
right, were already in rear as well as in front, he moved by the left flank,
through the timber skirting the creek, and too late to overtake the horses of
the command, marched on foot to the west of our regimental camp ground, and
thence to North Fork Town as mentioned in your report.
For cool, courageous, deliberate action, I am satisfied, he is as well
entitled to specific and honorable mention, as any officer on the field that
day; and I desire also that it shall clearly appear that the 29th
Texas cavalry, did its whole duty, as it has done on every field into which it
has been called, & that it was beyond all question the last of the army to
leave the field. This is the more important; as reports of the fight have gone
out, in which the regiment is not recognized as having been in it, when in fact
its participation was not secondary to that of any other force engaged, but both
in the original formation of the line, and the subsequent defence of the train,
was of the first importance.
Very Respectfully
(signed)
Charles DeMorse,
Col. Com'dg 29th Tex. Cav.
Gen'l D. H. Cooper,
Commanding
1st Brigade.
Head-Quarters 1st Brigade.
Camp Watie, Aug. 29th, 1863.
Respectfully
forwarded for Gen. Steel's information, with the request that this report from
Col. DeMorse may be transmitted to Dept. Hd Qrs., and made part of my official
report.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 12, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
Summary: Listed of Killed and
Wounded of 1st Brigade, I. T. during the engagement of the 17th
July ult., at Elk Creek, C. N.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 12, 1863, p. 2, c.
2-3
Head Quarters 29th Texas Cav.
Camp Prairie Springs, C. N.
July 25th 1863.
Colonel:--
In
obedience to orders from you on the morning of the 17th inst. this
regiment was promptly mounted and marched across Elk Creek to its north fork,
when it was dismounted under cover of the timber, and proceeded rapidly on foot
across the skirt of timber into the prairie, where we were under your directions
posted in line of battle. Captain
Harmon's Squadron, [Co's C and A] and Capt. Mat Daughtery's company
"E" were thrown forward as skirmishers.
In this position we remained some half hour when by your order we moved
to the right some three hundred yards, and closed on your left.
Captain Harmon's Squadron was retained as skirmishers in front of the new
position, and Captain Daugherty's company was sent up a small bushy ravine, that
extended into the prairie a few yards from our left, to the front. Some 15 or 20 dismounted Choctaws, came along our rear
hunting a place to fight, these I immediately placed on our left, which extended
our line nearly to the centre of the ravine, up which Captain Daugherty had been
posted. This was our position at
the commencement of the fight. The
whole space in front of us was covered with small bushes, which concealed our
position, and almost masked the approach of the enemy.
A battery to the left of us, also one in front, complimented us
occasionally with shot and shell, though the heaviest fire was directed to the
right. A constant fire was kept up
by the skirmishers on both sides. Captain
Daughterty was driven from his position in the ravine.—The enemy advanced in
line of battle four deep along our entire front, and extending to some distance
to our left, keeping up a very rapid and constant fire of small arms.
We reserved our fire until the enemy had approached within twenty yards,
and then poured upon them a galling fire; in the mean time the whole right had
given away, and we were fast being flanked on our right and left.
The right of this regiment hearing an order given to your regiment to
fall back, obeyed it; the left still maintained their position until ordered
back by me. It is proper here to
mention, that besides the line of battle extending along our front, a heavy
column of infantry bearing down from the right, swept everything before it.
We
fell back to a small branch directly in our rear, where I ordered a halt, and
made a stand, supposing that I was supported by the whole brigade.
I sent Major Carroll to the right to ascertain the position of your
regiment, in order to close upon it, and to rally our right.
I remained with the left. The
Major not returning I sent to the right myself, to ascertain the cause, when I
found that all on our right had given away, and that the enemy were passing
rapidly to our rear, on the right. I
immediately ordered the remainder of my men out of the branch, and being cut off
from our horses, and the main command, we made our way up Elk Creek, thence on
foot across the prairie to North Fork, and camped.
Major Carroll and the right succeeded in reaching our horses, and
assisted in holding the enemy in check, while the train &c got off, and then
came off in rear of the entire command to the Canadian.
Colonel
Charles DeMorse, who commanded the regiment in person at the commencement of the
action, was severely wounded in the left hand by a minnie ball from the enemy's
sharp shooters, and after much earnest persuasion from myself and several other
officers, reluctantly left the field—his conduct and bearing while on the
field won the admiration of us all. Major Carroll as usual behaved with much coolness and
gallantry, and rendered me valuable assistance on the field, and in bringing off
the right wing of our regiment when cut off from the left, and deserves my
unqualified approbation.
Adjutant
DeMorse seemed quite in his element, amid the shower of lead.
All the officers and men with very few exceptions in the latter class,
behaved with coolness, and deserve and receive my thanks for the prompt manner
in which all my orders were obeyed.
Our
casualties are as follows:
Killed
14.
Wounded
29.
Missing
8
Total
51
This
report has been delayed with the hope that Colonel DeMorse might be able to at
least superintend it in person, but in this I have been disappointed.
Very Respectfully
Your ob't. Ser'vt.
Otis G. Welch.
Lt. col. Com'dg. 29th T. C.
Colonel T. C. Bass
Com'dg.
Centre
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 17, 1863, p. 1, c.
1-3
Red River Station,
August 5th, 1863.
Mr. Editor:--
Having
just returned from a scout in the vicinity of the Wichita Mountains, and other
parts of the frontier, I imagine the events of the excursion will be interesting
somewhat to yourself and readers. On
the morning of the 18th of July, Lieutenant James R. Gideon in
command of twenty-six men left this place on an Indian hunt.
On the day of our departure, we traveled about 10 miles, and reached the
old post formerly occupied by Captain James Bourland's company of Rangers;
finding good water, and grass, we encamped for the night.
At an early hour of the 19th we were again on the march, and
after a travel of three hours we crossed "Little Wichita" where we
nooned, remaining until about four o'clock, when we were ordered to "saddle
up." A few moments only were
occupied in saddling our horses and packing our mules, when we were ready for
our journey. We put
out—accomplished an eight miles ride—found good grass and water on Long
creek, a tributary of the Little Wichita, and here camped for the night.
On the morning of the 20th, we started for the Big Wichita at
which we arrived about 11 o'clock—crossed at Valentine's crossing—went up
the River about a mile—nooned at an old vacated Rancho formerly occupied by a
Mr. Nechard [?] who was killed sometime since by the Indians.
At this place we found good grass and excellent water—we lounged around
in the shade until late in the evening, then pursued our course up the Wichita. About sun down we found ourselves at Campbell Gooche's Rancho
which was situated upon an elevated point fronting on one of the most beautiful
vallies of the Wichita. Here were
several buildings. A large framed
house consisting of three spacious rooms and various little huts, built upon the
Mexican style. These huts I presume
were once occupied by the Mexicans in employ of Mr. Gooch.
These premises were evacuated about the time of the Fort Cobb affair. Many
things were here left, and destroyed. The
grass and water being good, at this place, our Lieutenant ordered us to strike
camps. On the morning of the 21st
at the rising of the sun, we were again on the march—travelled a north west
course about 10 miles, struck Red River at Gilbert's Rancho.
Here again was desolation and destruction—here were marks of the
outrages of these merciless red devils who have ever since my first recollection
infested the frontier of Texas. Mr.
Gilbert left his home at or near the same time that Mr. Gooch was compelled to
abandon his place. Gilbert's was
also a well finished home.—The dwelling house was a large framed building,
consisting of four extensive rooms, and erected with much taste and skill; it
was situated upon a high bluff of Red River, fronting south on a beautiful scope
of Prairie. At the rear of the
building was a fine clustre of elm, and other magnificent shade trees. In this grove, bursted out a beautiful spring of water, from
under the rock, it was pure, clear, and cold, and was quite refreshing to the
thirsty Rangers. The good water,
and beautiful shade, were truly inviting; we could not help but while away a few
hours at so delightful a place. The
owner of this valuable place had left many things of worth at the mercy of the
Indians, and after its abandonment they had not failed to visit, and leave many
marks of their presence. The
windows were all broken out, both sash and glass.
In one room, had been left a neat bureau; even this they had destroyed.
Valuable books were torn to pieces, and scattered to and fro.
The black smith's bellows, together with numerous other things, were
totally ruined. The wheat crop
remained standing in the field, had not been reaped.
We remained here until late in the evening, then pursued our journey
about four miles; camped on Gilbert's creek.
On the 22nd we traveled about 15 miles leaving Gilberts creek,
on our right, water began to get scarce; but at length found a sufficient
quantity to answer our purpose, and notwithstanding it was very bad, we camped
until the 23rd, when we took a south west course—travelled about 16
miles; and came to the Big Wichita, at what is known as the upper Van Dorn
crossing. Here we got our dinner,
and grazed our horses a while, but the grass and water being indifferent, we
travelled that evening up Beaver creek seven or eight miles and took up for the
night. On the 24th we
continued to scout up Beaver some fifteen or twenty miles, finding no sign of
Indians—in fact there was no game in that country, therefore Indians could not
subsist.
On the
25th we continued up the creek a few miles, but the grass getting
worse; the Lieutenant concluded to take a north east course, for Pease River.
We travelled in this direction all night, and camped until the morning of
the 26th, when we again set out for Pease River.
On this day it was my misfortune, in company with one John Higgins, to
get separated from the command. It
was partly carelessness on our part, that we lost them.
After having rambled about until near moon down, we stopped for the
night, believing that we could find the trail of the command, the next day, but
unfortunately for us, clouds began to gather and at daylight, a tremendous rain
was falling; of course the trail that we were expecting to find, became entirely
obliterated, by the falling of such an immense quantity of water. However on the 27th we searched most diligently,
hoping to find some trace of them. We
rode till moon down—found no sign of them whatever. By this time we had become hungry, and much fatigued; yet we
did not despair but early on the 28th, we resumed our search, and
continued to ride until night fall, when both ourselves and horses were almost
exhausted. By this time our hunger
had ceased, and we grew sick and sleepy. We
unsaddled our horses and threw ourselves on the damp ground, and there reposed
until morning. The 29th
was a clear and beautiful day. After
getting up, and taking a view of the country around I informed my comrade that I
was acquainted with the country, and that we had better abandon our search for
the command, and start for the nearest settlements that we might get something
to eat. To this proposition my
comrade readily acquiesced; and by 7 o'clock we were on our course homeward.
After travelling about 12 miles, we struck a large trail, which we very
naturally concluded was "Injun sign."
A closer examination soon confirmed us in our belief.
You may imagine that we began to feel "woolfish" for our
situation was by no means viable. Our
arms consisted of two rifles and a Colts navy, and in consequence of so much
rain, and the inferiority of the powder and caps that we have to use we could
place but little confidence in our shooting irons. But believing it a desperate case at best, we continued to
travel homeward, resolved that if we were attacked by Indians, to sell out as
dear as possible. We had not
travelled two miles, when we found another trail of ponies which apparently was
not more than three hours old. We
examined close, in fact followed it a few hundred yards, to ascertain where they
were going. We soon concluded from
the course they were travelling that they were on their way, to the white
settlements.—We left the trail, took our course, and you may readily imagine
travelled rapidly—accomplished a ride of nearly sixty miles, having had
nothing to eat since leaving the scout, but one prairie dog and one rabbit.
At night we were much fatigued and my companion complained of hunger, but
I was sick, and sleepy—therefore laid down, and slept till day.
On the
morning following, we took an early start; and after a ride of about sixty
miles, reached the settlements on Little Wichita.—Here we were given something
to eat by the settlers—allowing us to eat only in small quantities at a time.
After satisfying our hunger to some extent, we retired for the
night—slept pleasantly, and awoke next morning much revived—ate a hearty
breakfast, and started for our Station, where arrived that night, got something
more to eat, and by next morning felt as well as could be expected.
In a day or two the command returned, but unfortunately did not find the
Indian trails which I have mentioned. Since
our return the very Indians that made the trails of which I have spoken, have
been in the settlements, committing their bloody, and inhuman depredations. On Saturday last, they attacked five cow hunters about 12
miles from camp Brunson, killing three and wounding one. The wounded man and his father escaped. The names of those killed were John McGehee, Wm. Hodge, and
Levi Hill. The Indians got their
horses and saddles. The two men
that escaped made their way into camp Brunson, and informed Captain Ward of what
had transpired. He sent men to bury
the dead, and follow the murderers.—At last accounts, they were on the trail,
but I do not know how far behind. As
soon as the intelligence came to Red River station, Capt. Rowland started out
two scouts. We have not heard from
them since they left, but feel confident that they will use every exertion to
catch them.
We
have in anticipation an expedition to the North Canadian, and the Arkansas
river. Our Lieutenant Colonel has
just returned from Fort Arbuckle, where he had been for the purpose of procuring
aid from the Indian troops that are stationed there.
While there he made an arrangement for the Tonkoways to come, and live in
Texas again. Five of them are here
now, and the remainder of them will be in to night. This tribe is now almost extinct. The bringing of the Tonks among us, is not approved of by
many. If I am correctly informed,
it is the intention of the Colonel, to divide them out, and put a few at each
station, on the frontier. In my
mind it will cause trouble, however time will prove.
I
believe I have written about all that will interest you; as we never hear any
war news. It has been rumored here
that Vicksburg is in possession of the enemy; but we do not know, whether this
is true or false; but I presume you are by this time posted.
Should anything worthy of communicating transpire, you shall hear from me
again.
C. A. W.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 17, 1863, p. , c. 3-4
Camp on Little Boggy, C. N. }
September 9th, 1863.
}
Dear Standard:--
We are
pleasantly situated in camp on this Creek; detached from the main portion of the
brigade, occupying the Perryville road. Colonel
Martin's regiment, is camped below us in the road leading to Fort Smith.
We are enjoying the dull life of a soldier in camp without any thing
astir, and perfectly in ignorance as to when any movement will be made forward
or backward; but imagine we shall remain in our present camp, unless General
Blount should issue a special order, protesting against our longer staying here,
and at the same time sending sufficient force to remove us.
Having
met with nothing but defeat heretofore, on account of inferiority of numbers,
and the character of our troops, we are cheered by the intelligence, that Gen'l
McCulloch, with three regiments of whites, is enroute for here, and that
Gen'l McCulloch is to assume command of the Department.
It is to be hoped that this is not one of the thousand rumors that are
afloat every day, but will prove true, for McCulloch is represented as a strict
disciplinarian, a soldier of the old school, and such a man is sadly needed
here.
Colonel
Bankhead, who went to reinforce General Cabell, in command at Fort Smith, did
not make the junction in time, and Cabell was forced to give way, before
superior numbers, the enemy taking possession of Fort Smith.
Individuals
here from Texas, represent the people despondent, whipped, and willing to go
back into the union. It is said,
that in your country, there are hundreds who are ready, at the first touch of
the invader upon Texas soil, to welcome him with open arms.
This may be the feeling of the people in your county, and around there,
but it certainly cannot be over the whole State.
Why should the people be whipped, when the army is not?
Not the least despondency exists among those who have for over two years,
endured the cold of winter, and the heat of summer, and all the hardships of a
soldier's life, and yet they are in better spirits today, than ever, and to the
army the prospects look brighter than ever before.—It is for the sake of
property that these timid individuals are ready to yield the palm to Abraham,
their king, thereby to save their little of worldly goods, they have treasured
up. They can possibly be actuated
by no other motive, for the people in that part of the country are in no danger
of life or limb, nor likely ever to be. Do
they not know that the very property which they would save, will be turned
against us, to swell the ranks of the enemy, and as a means of accomplishing our
subjugation: All this scary feeling
upon the part of the people is useless, let them be of good cheer, do their duty
and the end is not far off. Let
them send back those who in the hour of trial have deserted their regiments, and
are still absent, let them take those in hands who have skulked the issue from
the beginning, and carried themselves as gentlemen of great dignity, behind
their tickets of exemption, gentlemen of profession, quack doctors, young
men of disability &c. Send them
all into the army, with guns upon their shoulders, and let them taste for once
the proud joy of defending the soil that has fed them.
It is
rumored here that we are to be reinforced by "Cabell's Battalion,"
heretofore stationed at Bonham, and quartered at the "Burney
House." I cannot vouch for the
correctness of this, but hope it may prove true.—Having been highly fed, and
pampered it is to be hoped they will do good fighting.
Should
anything of interest occur soon, you will hear from me again.
Yours truly
Phil.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 17, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
New Goods
Just Received, and
For Sale by the Undersigned,
4000 yards, best Calico.
1000 "
Bleach Domestic.
200 "
Chambray.
100 dozen Gingham Handkerchiefs.
20 "
White cotton Hose.
50 yards Irish Linen.
400 fine French Calf Skins.
50 lbs. best shoe thread.
100 dozen Spool thread.
20 lbs. Patent thread.
[illegible] lb. Black Sewing Silk.
50,000 needles assorted sizes.
500 lbs Sal Soda.
400 lbs Black Pepper.
12 Keg of nails 5 to 10d.
12 dozen Tin Caps.
12 hhds. Sugar.
And various other articles in store, which will be shown upon application.
Clarksville,
Texas, Sept. 18th 1863.
J. H. Darnall.
I have
also in Jefferson, Texas, sixty hogheads of Sugar, and 100 barrels of Molasses
for sale.
J. H. Darnall.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 17, 1863, p. 2, c. 3
The
Dallas Herald of the 19th says that a few prisoners passed through
there on the Sunday previous en route for Galveston, being condemned by court
martial as renegade citizens of Texas to work on the fortifications during the
war and afterwards to be banished from the State.
They were all citizens of Cooke and Grayson counties, absconded from the
country, joined the Feds and were returning with arms to Texas, on a spying
excursion. Three were shot at Gen.
Bankhead's head quarters by order of the court martial, and the rest sent to
Galveston.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 26, 1863, October 3,
1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 10, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
Hd. Qrs. 1st Brigade I. T.
}
Camp on Five Mile Creek. }
September 24th 1863.
}
Colonel:--
In
your introduction to the publication of the Official Report, of the affair at
Elk Creek, on 17th July, it is stated that the first, and second
Cherokee regiments were commanded respectively by Colonels Watie, and Adair, and
in justification to these officers, it is proper to say, that the first Cherokee
regiment was commanded by major Thompson, Colonel Watie being at the time on
detached services at Webber's Falls; and the second Cherokee regiment by
Lieutenant Colonel Bell, Colonel Adair being absent—sick.
It was regretted exceedingly that it so happened that Colonel Watie was
not present on that occasion, as his services, and well known gallantry would
have given great encouragement to the officers, and men of his command.
Please
make this explanation public.
Respectfully,
D. H. Cooper,
Brig. Gen'l
Colonel Charles DeMorse,
Clarksville
Texas.
Skip to November 7, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 7, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
The Loyalty of the Choctaws.
Some persons in the Choctaw Nation, timorous or disaffected, had ventured
to suggest, a few weeks since, that the safety, and policy of the Nation, lay in
a position of neutrality.
To
prevent any misapprehension, as to the feeling of the Nation en masse,
the Council in Session took the matter under consideration, and expressed itself
in the following very decided terms—the resolutions offered by Col. Campbell
Leflore.
The
Choctaws are a reliable people, and their troops are unsurpassed by those of any
other of our Indian Allies.
Resolutions
Condemning the position of Neu-
trality, as a measure of this Nation, &c.
Whereas, great and serious damage has been done to the good name, and
enviable position, now held by this nation, among the Confederate States of
America, our friends and allies, by the repeated and contemptible enquiries of
certain persons how and what they thought of the position of neutrality, as a
step to be taken by this nation in the present war being waged upon her border.
1st.—Be
it resolved by the general council, of the Choctaw Nation assembled, That any
person speaking sentiments of a character tend in any wise to destroy the
confidence of the Choctaw people in the ability of the Confederate States to
sustain themselves in the present struggle, and advising the people of this
Nation to take any steps tending in any manner to induce this people to occupy a
position of neutrality, or withdraw their united support from the Confederate
States, shall be deemed, and considered an enemy to this Nation of people, and a
traitor to the liberties of his common country and interest; and deserving the
death of a traitor.
2d.—Be
it further resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to Bonham,
Sherman, Paris, Clarksville, Tex., and Washington, Ark., with the request to
place the same before the friends of this Nation, in the columns of their
respective newspapers.
3d.—Be
it further resolved, That this resolution take effect, and be enforced, from and
after its passage.
Approved Oct. 10th, 1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 7, 1863, p. 1, c. 1
Camp Bragg, C. N.
}
Oct. 15th, 1863.
}
Dear Standard:--
A few
days ago our camps was visited by the renowned Guerrilla Chieftain, Quantrel,
fresh from his Kansas raid, and bringing the joyful intelligence, that on the
____ inst., at Baxer [Baxter] Springs, this side of Fort Scott, they had
attacked Major General Blount, Stahl, and Escort, and succeeded in killing
Blount, his staff, and near all his escort.
As an evidence of their victory they bring with them the sword, pistols,
saddle, private carriage, ambulance, papers, uniform, flag, &c., of the
Federal General, an abundance of small arms, and a thousand minor trophies taken
from his staff and escort. The
whole party numbered between 120 and 140, and not more than 20 are said to have
escaped alive, and all concur in the opinion that General Blount himself was
killed. Should they have been so
fortunate as to have killed Blount, the Federal army has been deprived of its
best General this side of the Mississippi.
Col.
Watie arrived in camps yesterday evening with eleven prisoners, and nine wagons,
loaded with commissaries, captured on the road from Gibson to Van Buren.
Immediately
upon our move here, the Federals wisely evacuated North Fork town, giving us
undisputed possession of this portion of the Indian country, and it is said with
the exception of a few bands of plunderers, here and there, that the road from
here to Gibson is clear. No force
of any importance can occupy a station beyond the Canadian, on account of the
scarcity of forage, and I suppose our camps will be confined chiefly on the
Canadian line, and in the meantime our cavalry will rid the country of all
marauding bands, between this and the Arkansas River. Our horses are faring finely now, forage at present being
plenty' and the enemy will begin to find it troublesome transporting supplies
from one post to another by wagons.
Since
my last we have been joined by the Chickasaw, and Seminole Battalions.
Yours Truly
Phil.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 7, 1863, p. 1, c. 4
The
famous "Brush-men," whose numbers and probable intentions have of late
been the subject of so much conjecture, have with the consent of Gen. McCulloch,
agreed to organize into a regiment for frontier defence.
The organization is to take place next Thursday.—The question
"what was to be done with these men," had long puzzled the brains of
military men, and for its peaceful solution, the country is greatly indebted to
Gen. McCulloch to whose conciliatory, yet firm, and skillful management, it is
chiefly attributable.—McKinney Messenger.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 7, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
Ector's Brigade in the Battle of Chickamauga
Few, if any troops in the Confederate army have a more enviable fame than
Ector's Brigade. It is composed of
the 9th Regiment Texas Infantry, Col. Young, 10th, 14th,
15 (or 32) regiment Texas cavalry (dismounted) commanded respectively by Lieut.
Col. Earp, Col. Camp and Col. Anderson, the 29th regiment N. C. by
Lieut. Col. Creasman, Stone's Ala. Battalion, and Pounds Miss. Battalion,
numbering some 1,300 effective men in the late battle, where the old brigade
added fresh laurels to those it had already won on many a well fought
battlefield, albeit it was at the cost of many of its bravest spirits. This brigade was at once upon its arrival at Chattanooga to
reinforce Gen. Bragg, placed in the reserve corps. The position of the reserve involved the certainty that their
duties would be heavy, and their toils incessant. They were at once placed on piquet duty on the bank of the
Tennessee river, where they remained until it became necessary to fall back to
counteract the flank movement of the enemy.
These being foiled by Gen. Bragg, the order finally came to move upon
Rosengrantz's [sic] grand Army of Invasion, and Ector's brigade was at the head
of the column. In this, as in every
other battle, it has been their fortune to participate, their corps burnt the
first powder, and were amongst the foremost in assaulting the enemy.
At Chickamauga creek it first encountered the vandals, and in common with
other brigades of the division it drove the enemy back, on the eve of the 18th,
and just after dark it crossed over the stream, and lay upon its arms almost in
sight of a greatly superior force of the enemy.
On the
next morning it moved out, and soon came in contact with Thomas' corps, fighting
them gallantly until the supporting Brigades were driven back, when these
veterans being flanked, and almost surrounded, were ordered to fall back, which
they did without confusion, cutting their way through a line of the enemy which
had flanked them on their left, and got in their rear.
In this engagement Col. Young commanding 9th Texas, a very
gallant, and efficient officer, was severely wounded:
The loss in officers, and privates was very heavy.
Two other brigades being now ordered forward engaged the enemy and
Ector's brigade moved upon their right, and regained their lost ground, pushing
the enemy some distance before it.—It drove back three lines, charged several
masked batteries, which were supported by strong bodies of infantry, and
captured several pieces of artillery; but was again forced to retire, for a
short distance, finding itself greatly outnumbered, and the supporting brigades
again having given way after making a most gallant fight.
Only one of the guns could be saved.
In this charge were lost many of its most gallant officers, and men. Col. Andrews, commanding 32d Texas, a gallant and chivalric
officer, was severely wounded while leading his regiment, flag in hand, several
flag bearers having been shot down. After
his fall a private in the 10th Texas, J. C. Neal, again raised the
flag, and brought it out. This
gallant soldier was also killed on the next day.
Capt. Dixon and Lieutenant Williams of the 32nd Texas were
killed near the battery taken, while gallantly leading the charge.
Their gallantry availed but little, as this brigade with more than
one-third of the number carried into the fight already killed and wounded, was
left alone to breast the storm of battle, which broke upon them in all its fury. And nobly did they do their duty. In danger of being surrounded again, it moved by the right
flank, and took position a short distance in the rear. In a short time Cleburne's division came up, and this brigade
was ordered up as a support to that division.
It was not engaged again during the evening, although exposed to the
heavy artillery fire of the enemy. Gen.
Cleburne's division moved upon the enemy about sundown and continued to drive
them until after dark. Night
finally put an end to the struggle of the combatants, and a dull silence seemed
to portend an angry morrow. On
Sunday morning the brigade acted as a reserve, and about 10 a. m. it was ordered
up at double quick to support the lines in advance, which had given away, after
sustaining a heavy loss before one of the strongest works that the enemy had on
the field. At the time it came up
our lines in advance were in considerable confusion, and it was evident that it
was all important for the brigade to hold the enemy in check, until these could
be reformed.
Nobly
did it do its duty. Coming up at a
run, it gave a yell, and dashed at the foe.—Then like a wall of living fire,
it stood, fighting at considerable disadvantage and being exposed to a raking
fire from left, and front. Its line
of battle could be distinctly marked by its dead, and wounded, after the
struggle was over. The very air
seemed filled with bursting shell and minnie balls.
When the lines were reformed the brigade moved forward, and continued to
drive the enemy until after night fall.
Brig.
Gen. Ector was slightly wounded four times, and had two horses shot from under
him. Capt. Kilgore A. A. G., and
Lieut. H. M. Lane, A. D. C., were wounded, and Lieut. T. B. Trezevant, A. I. G.,
received a bullet hole through his cap. Every
member of General Ector's Staff, down to his orderly, lost at least one horse,
and every mounted officer in the Brigade had his horse killed or severely
wounded. During the whole of the
engagement the General and his staff were to be seen directing, encouraging, and
leading the men. So stubborn was
the resistance offered by the enemy, than an Indian belonging to the brigade
could not forbear expressing his admiration while coolly picking them off with
his rifle by the remark, "Yankee fight good this time."
A
large portion of this brigade is composed of Texans—cut off entirely from
home, and all the association and benefits to be derived from kindred, and
friends. Even the poor privilege of
mail communication is denied them. But
their conduct will speak for them—they need no higher eulogy.
I
cannot close without paying a deserved tribute to the gallantry of North
Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi troops attached to this brigade.
They endured all with us, and with us are entitled to an equal share of
the praise. Our association with
them has been most pleasant and agreeable.
W. S.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 7, 1863, p. 2, c. 2-3
Summary: List of Casualties in
Ector's Brigade in the Battle of Chickamauga
Includes:
Thirty-second
Texas Regiment, Col. J. A. Andrews, commanding.
Company
I. Killed: ... privates A. G. Garey
[Gary]
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 14, 1863
Skip to November 28, 1863
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 28, 1863, p. 1, c. 4
Deserters.
$30 Reward is offered for the arrest, and delivery to me, of each of the
following described deserters from my company (F), DeMorse's Regiment, Texas
cavalry, viz.
Private
Thomas R. Rodgers, deserted 15th Sept. 1863; was enlisted in Red
River county, Texas, on 20th June 1862, to serve three years or
during the war; was born in St. Clair county, State of Alabama, is 23 years of
age, 6 feet 1 inch high, dark complexion, blue eyes, brown hair.
Private
Charles Adkins deserted Oct. 20th 1863; was enlisted in Red River
county, Texas on the 20th June 1862—and lives on Mustang Creek in
Red River county, (have no descriptive list.)
Corporal
James M. Land, deserted 15th Sept.; was enlisted at Camp Brooken's
Creek, Choctaw Nation, on the 25th of August 1863, to serve three
years, or during the war; was born in the State of Texas, Cass county, and lives
in Red River county, Texas. He is
18 years of age, 6 feet high, light complexion, dark hair, and grey eyes.
E. R. Oliver,
Capt. Com'dg Co. F,
29th Reg. T. C.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], December 5, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
Lady in Distress.
Mrs. T. A. Herbert, a refugee from Missouri is now at this place in
almost a destitute condition. She
has brothers in Gen. Cooper's Brigade, who will assist her if they have a
knowledge of her condition, which is the object of this notice.
She also has relatives in Red River County, Texas.
A. B. Genkins,
Farmersville,
La. Sept. 9th, 1863.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], December 12, 1863, December 19,
1863
Skip to January 9, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 9, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Capitol, Nov. 12, '63.
His Excellency, John Gill Shorter:
Dear
Sir—A constituent of mine, Col. R. R. Pickering, of Marengo county, is making
excellent cotton yarns, for the manufacture of bagging, and heavy clothing for
negroes, without the use of cards. He
gins the cotton slowly, so as to throw large flakes through the flue which are
caught in a hamper basket, placed under the flue, and taken to the spinning
wheel, without pressing the cotton. Col.
Pickering informs me that his best spinners average eight cuts per day.
Since he has made this discovery he has abandoned the use of cards in
making coarse yarns. I herewith
send you a specimen of the yarn for exhibition.
Believing
this a matter of much importance to our country, I have taken the liberty of
making this communication.
Very
respectfully,
W. E. Blake.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 9, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Col.
John B. Walker, of Madison, Ga., had 500 acres planted in Chinese Sugar Cane
this year. He is the pioneer in the
cultivation of this plant in Georgia, and having found it to be a valuable
product, has given almost his whole attention to it. He manufactures large quantities of syrup, and vinegar.
The vinegar is made from the juice of the cane, boiling it long enough to
skim off the feculent matter which rises to the surface, then pouring it into
barrels. The bung left out, it
acidifies in the usual way, making very strong vinegar.
Mr.
Walker saves all the fodder, and seed of his cane, which he says pay the whole
cost of the crop.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 9, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Soldiers
Contemplation.
"Air—Southern Wagon."
O soldiers I've concluded, to make a little song,
And if I tell no falsehood there'll surely be no wrong,
If any be offended at what I have to sing,
'Twill be because his conscience applies its bitter sting.
Chorus
Oh
how'd you like the army, this high falutin army,
The
brass-mounted army, where eagle buttons rule.
Of late I've oft been thinking, of this great army-school,
With iron regulations, and tyrants rigid rule.
But chosen words, or phrases, I need no longer seek,
Plain fact as soldiers know them, a stronger language speak;
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
Whisky is a monster, and ruins great and small,
But in the noble army, Head Quarters gets it all,
They drink it where there's danger, although it seems too hard,
And if a private touch it, they pop him under guard,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
And then when we are marching, we're Order No. Blank,
That makes the private soldier forever stay in rank,
Although 'tis rather cooling, as soldiers often say,
It is a General Order, and all at once obey,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
At every big plantation, or negro holders yard,
Just to save his property, the Generals place a guard.
The sentry's then instructed to let no private pass,
The rich man's house, and table are fixed to suit the brass,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
I hate to leave this story so beautiful, and true;
But the poor men, and the widows must have a line or two.
For them no guards are stationed—their fences all are burned,
And property molested, as long ago you've learned,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
The army is much richer than when the war begun,
It furnishes three tables where once it had but one.
The first is richly laden with chicken, goose, and duck;
The next with pork and mutton, and third with good old buck.
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
The Generals eat the poultry and buy it very cheap,
Our Colonels and our Captains, devour the hogs and sheep;
The privates are contented—except what they can steal—
With Buck and cornbread plenty to make a handsome meal;
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
And when we meet with ladies, we're bound to go it shy,
Head Quarters are the pudding, and privates are the pie,
They issue standing orders to keep us all in line,
For if we had a showing, the brass would fail to shine,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
Sometimes we get so hungry we chance to steal a pig,
Then the biggest stump in Dixie, we're sure to have to dig,
And if we fret an officer, who wears long legged boots,
With neither judge nor jury, we're put on double roots,
Then
how'd you like the army &c.
These things and scores of others, are truly hard to me,
Yet we should be contented, and fight for liberty.
And when we leave the army, we'll have a jolly time,
We'll be our own commanders, and sing a sweeter rhyme.
We'll
say farewell to armies &c.,
We'll see our loving sweethearts, and sometimes kiss them
too,
We'll eat the finest rations and bid old buck adieu.
There'll be no General with us, no orders to compel,
Long boots and eagle buttons, will take a long farewell.
And
thus we'll leave the army &c.
By Foot Cavalry,
From the privates of Alexander's Regt., 2nd Tex. Brigade.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], January 16, 1864
Skip to March 5, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 5, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 12, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
Home Manufactures.
The Telegraph has been shown some samples of goods made in Texas, at a
small factory which Capt. Wharton has succeeded in getting under way.
He states that there will be six spinning jennies of ten spindles each,
and a wool carding machine successfully at work—with power looms.
In six months twenty-six more spinning jennies will be completed.—they
will be driven by steam, and will turn out six hundred and fifty yards of cloth
per day or enough to clothe one hundred soldiers.—The manufacture of rope is
already begun, and the manufactory is expected to produce yarn for socks,
blankets, cotton, wool, and mixed goods. The
machinery for the factory has been entirely by Texas mechanics, and set in
operation by Mr. J. K. Mitchell. An
iron foundry has also been set in operation by the energy, and enterprize of
Capt. Wharton, which will furnish ovens, skillets, and cooking utensils for
nearly ten thousand men, at about 25 cents per pound. This foundry also makes
kettles for making soaps, and candles. Mr.
T. s. Hammett, formerly a merchant in Galveston, now a private in the
Confederate service, is the superintendent of the foundry.
A hat factory is also about to be commenced, capable of turning out 1000
hats per month, and at a cost not exceeding $3 each.
Almost the entire operative force is made of detailed soldiers.
A year ago Capt. Wharton commenced a government shoe factory, which is
now capable of making 1000 pairs good brogans per month, at a cost not exceeding
$8,50 per pair. Leather is supplied in abundance at schedule prices, and
private tanneries have increased rapidly. Tailor
shops, tin shops &c., have also been put in operation by the energy and
enterprize of Capt. Wharton, who commenced without experience.
This shows what one patriotic man can do, when he exerts his talent and
industry for the benefit of the country, and should stimulate others to follow
this noble example.—Austin Ga.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
We are
in receipt of the Semi-Weekly Crockett Quid Nunc, a lively, well-edited little
sheet, which we hope may do well. It
is issued by J. R. Burnett, & Co.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
The
Tide Northward:--The embalming process brought into requisition.—It is
reliably estimated that during the past week over one hundred Jews, principals
of substitutes, and others have come on to Richmond from the south, put up at
the hotels, and disappeared by the various under ground routes to the North.
How they go is known only to themselves, and their agents, but it is true
they have gone, and are still going. Ten
Jews left one of the principal hotels on Sunday morning. They
are mostly of the wealthy class, and ten thousand dollars is frequently tendered
for a safe passage to the Potomac. It
is said that persons in the guise of farmers are their most successful
accomplices. They come to Richmond
with marketing, or a load of forage, and carry out a load of blockade runners
concealed in their vehicles making a more profitable speculation on their
outward, than their inward trip, as all pay, and pay heavily too.
Numbers
have been overhauled on their journeys through the lines by the detectives, and
are now resting in Castle Thunder, but more have succeeded in escaping.
It is hinted, with what amount of truth we know not, that the mysterious
art of the embalmer has been employed in some recent cases of disappearance, and
that several embalmed Jews, neatly encoffined, have gone through the lines
enroute to bereaved relatives in the North.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
The
Creoles of Louisiana.—A Massachusetts chaplain, Rev. Mr. Hepworth, writes of
the Louisiana Creoles:
Just
beyond Carrolton is an immense, and magnificent estate, owned by one of these
Creoles. His annual yield of Sugar
is fifteen hundred hogheads. He
might have taken the oath of allegiance, and thus saved his property; but he
would not. The work of depredation
commenced; but he bore it without a murmur.
First
we took his wagons, harness, and mules; he said nothing, but scowled most
awfully.—Next we emptied his stables of horses for cavalry service; he did not
have even a pony left and was compelled to trudge along on foot; still nothing
was said. Next we took his entire
crop; ground it in his own sugar house, used his barrels for the molasses, and
his hogheads for the sugar, and marked the head of each, "U. S." not a
murmur. Then came his negroes,
three hundred, and more, house servants and all; took it into their woolly heads
to come within our camp lines. The
creole was most completely stripped; still he stood in the midst of the ruins,
cursing Abe Lincoln, and wishing that he had eight instead of four sons in the
rebel army.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
Nor
has the war failed to reveal admirable virtues in the southern people.
the passionate bravery of the men who charged up to the very throats of
our cannon at Fort Robinett; the rapid marching, and persistent fighting that
dispersed McClellan's army from before Richmond; the stubborn spirit that made
them devour their mules before they yielded at Vicksburg; and the warlike skill,
and ingenuity that have enabled them to avoid decisive disaster, through three
years of superior numbers—these are qualities which we are bound to
appreciate, whether we are willing to do so or not.
The people of the south are no mean foes.
They are Americans.—St. Louis Union.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 26, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
Cotton Cards—The County Court.
Some months ago, notice was given by the State authorities to the several
counties, that a large number of cotton cards had been imported from Europe, at
a cost of $10 per pair, Confederate money, at which rate they would be furnished
to the counties, for sale to soldiers families, and others at the same rate.
Cards, at that time, were selling in Clarksville at $50 per pair, cannot
be procured now at any price. The
distributive share of our county would have been, we believe, about 300 pairs.
The distribution of them would have done much good to the families of
poor soldiers, and indeed to all others who could have obtained them under the
rule of distribution. An offer was
made to the County Court, to bring them from Austin at $2,00 per pair, which
should have been immediately accepted; but was not.—Many weeks have worn
away—many poor women are in need of the cards:--the Counties continuous have
procured, and distributed; but our County Court has done nothing.
Have not these stay at home officials time to think of the families of
those who are confronting the battles of their country, or enduring the
hardships of the camp, away from home, and family?
If they have not, they had better be replaced by better men, more
considerate of the need of the country. There
is no excuse for such delay, or the silly parsimony which commenced it. It is criminal; because unjust to women and children who
cannot help themselves; unjust to the soldiers, and therefore unjust to the
Country. If speedy action is not
taken to effect this object of duty, we shall take the trouble to furnish the
names of men so derelict to duty, while staying at their comfortable homes.
Those who suffer from their neglect should know to whom they are indebted
for the misconduct.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], March 26, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
Boren's
bushmen, lately encamped in Lamar County have been taken under guard toward
Shreveport, by a detachment of Martin's regiment. They were believed to be preparing to take to the bush again.
It is a pity that they were not in the first instance driven out of the
bush by force, or exterminated in the attempt.
The traitorous scoundrels were not worth the time, and care wasted upon
them.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 2, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Ed.
News:--Having suffered from vaccination with the impure vaccine matter so
extensively circulated over the country, and experimented until I found a
successful remedy, you will please publish it for the benefit of those
suffering.
Take
sage leaves, and vinegar, boil together, thicken with corn meal, and make
poultices, apply to the wound for three days, and nights, changing morning and
night for fresh one, and treat constitutionally as follows:
Take
one tablespoonful sulphur, one table spoonful of cream tartar.
When the poultice is changed, the sore should be washed with camphor.
This
course faithfully followed will cure the worst arms in the State in less than
one week.
Your's [sic] &c.
O. A. McGinnis.
Moscow, Texas, Feb. 27, 1864.
Skip to April 16, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 16, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
From Below.
On the 8th inst. the great battle of Mansfield was fought. On the 9th the pursuit was active, and equally
successful—prisoners, wagons, and thousands of small arms attest our victory.
Gen. Mouton, Capt. Alex Chalmers, Capt. C. Sheppard, Maj. Canfield, Col.
Beard, Col. Nobles, Col. Armond, and Lt. Col. Walker were among the killed. On the 12th inst. Gen. Thom Green was killed in
the front line of battle. Our loss
was severe, but the result is glorious. From
Washington, we have not received reliable news, but confidently anticipate a
splendid victory in that quarter.
Skip to April 30, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 30, 1864, p. 1, c. 2-3
Picquet Station, near Camden, Ark.
April 21st 1864
Dear Standard:
Early
on the morning of the 18th, Maxey's Division was ordered to saddle
up, and move instantly. Rumor as
usual was busy as to our object, and destination, but the one that gained most
credit, was that we were en route to attack a foraging train of the enemy,
estimated at 200 wagons, and said to be guarded by a force, variously estimated
from one to three thousand.
A
rapid march of ten miles brought us to Lee's farm on the Camden road, where we
found Cabell's Ark. Brigade, and Green's Missouri Brigade, Gen. Marmaduke
commanding, and the enemy in position, awaiting our approach. Gen. Maxey upon arriving assumed chief command, and quickly
disposed of his forces for attacking.
To the
Texas brigade, commanded by Col. Charles DeMorse, supported by our Choctaw
allies, under command of Col. Tandy Walker, the duty of attacking and turning
the enemy's flank was assigned. For
the purpose we were dismounted on the road in front of the enemy, about one
thousand yards distant, and moved under cover of the timber, to our left, and
into the enemy's right. Moving in
line of battle, a greater portion of the way, we were somewhat retarded by the
dense thickets, and undergrowth on our route, and frequent halts had to be made
to reform our necessarily broken line. After
moving some two miles, our skirmishers came upon, and in rear of a small body of
the enemy's cavalry in an open field. having moved entirely through the timber and without any
foreknowledge of the ground, this body of cavalry gave to us the first
intimation of the whereabouts of the enemy.
The skirmishers, and the right wing (DeMorse's Reg.) of the brigade
opened upon these, causing them to retreat rapidly, sending several horses off
without riders. Moving in a direct
line northward, we quickly crossed the field, some two hundred yards in width,
passing into a thick bottom, through which ran a branch of clear water. Immediately
after crossing the branch, the skirmishers again opened, closed in upon the
brigade, and we found ourselves confronting the enemy, not more than a hundred
yards distant, and almost upon their extreme flank.
Raising
the well known Texas yell, we dashed at them, and met with a warm
reception.—The whole force of the enemy outnumbered us by four to one, aided
by four pieces of artillery was brought to bear against us.
The enemy had burnt the woods in their front and the thick smoke between
us, prevented us from getting a fair view, but the command to "shoot
low" was well obeyed, and afterwards showed with what deadly effect.
Their artillery rained showers of canister shot but luckily most all
passed too high. Under the terrible
fire which was poured into them, the left and centre of the brigade were
compelled to retire to the branch, immediately in our rear, whilst the right
which had the advantage of an excellent position with few exceptions maintained
its own. Soon as the left gave way,
Capt. Khrumbaar commanding a battery of light artillery, who had taken position
in the open field, in our rear, opened his pieces with such concise range that
the shells bursted amid the ranks of the enemy, producing an effect immediately
discernible to all. With the
opening of the battery, the Choctaws came gallantly into line on our left, and
Green's Missouri brigade upon our right. A
victorious shout ascended from the right, the left, and center to a man, rallied
to their former position, opened one more fire, and the enemy beat a retreat,
with the three brigades hotly in pursuit. This
engagement lasted some 45 minutes, and during this time, the musketry was
exceedingly heavy, and upon our part effective.
The enemy made no stand of any importance afterwards.
To the
troops of the Indian District, it was a proud day. We were fighting with the same enemy with whom we had
contended last year in a series of unsuccessful engagements, with numbers always
against us, and with arms that were almost useless.
This time we were better armed more equally matched, and I am glad to say
done their whole duty, fighting through the whole engagement, with a valor
unsurpassed by any troops, and gave to the enemy such a severe whipping at the
start, that he never recovered from it during the day.
Individual
acts of heroism by men in the ranks of the Texas brigade were numerous—Our
Choctaw allies stood nobly by us to a man and burning with wrongs, and insults
heaped upon their defenceless women, and children, by the enemy in his invasion
of their country last fall, wreaked tenfold their vengeance.
General
Maxey fully sustained his reputation as a prudent General, and successful
fighter, both by his gallantry upon the field, and his ingenuity in attacking,
gaining the entire confidence of all engaged, and the confidence of the Indians
to a greater extent than any man who has heretofore commanded them.
We are proud of him, and henceforth I bespeak for the troops of the
Indian District, constant success instead of defeat.
I have spoken of the movement of none of the troops in detail except the
Texas and Choctaw brigades because I am not sufficiently acquainted with their
movements. All however did their whole duty.
The
fight from first to last was of some four hours duration, and the result, the
capture of the entire train, numbering some 210 wagons, 1200 mules, and the
capture of 153 prisoners. The force
of the enemy was evenly divided between negroes, and white men. The prisoners consist of white men entirely, with some half
dozen exceptions. The enemy's loss
were some where near 400 negroes, and 25 white men killed, and 75 white men
wounded. The loss on our side
trifling.
I know
of no engagement, during the war, terminating with such happy result to our
arms, and with so small a loss on our part.
Yours truly,
Private.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], April 30, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Cure
for Sore Throat.—Take the whites of two eggs and beat them with two
teaspoonfulls of white sugar; grate a little nutmeg, and then add a pint of
lukewarm water. Stir well and drink
often. Repeat the prescription if
necessary and it will cure the most obstinate cases of hoarseness in a few days.
We have tried this remedy many times with complete success.
Skip to May 14, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 14, 1864, p. 1, c. 1-3
Head Quarters, Maxey's Cav. Div,
}
Camp on Middle Camden Road,
}
Ark. April 23d 1864. }
Colonel:--
I
respectfully submit the following report of the operations of the troops I had
the honor to command, in the battle of Poison Springs, on the 18th
inst.
Early
on the morning of that day, I was officially advised that a heavy train of
forage wagons, of the enemy was out on the old military road between Camden, and
Washington, supported by a considerable force of Artillery, Infantry, and
cavalry. I was directed by the
Major General commanding to proceed with my Division, without delay, from my
bivouac near Woodlawn, to Lee's farm on the Camden, and Washington road, about
ten miles from Camden, at which point I would find other troops; and as Senior
Officer take command on my arrival. I
put my division in motion, and arrived at the point designated about 9 o'clock
a.m., and found Brig. Gen. Marmaduke with his cavalry command there; and Brig.
Gen. Cabell with his, just getting in. Gen.
Marmaduke at once tendered the command to me.
From him I learned the dispositions of the enemy, his probable strength,
and the estimated size of the train.
The
disposition of our forces was soon made. Marmaduke's
Division on the right; Cabell's in the centre, and Maxey's Division, brought by
me from the Indian Territory, composed of Gano's Texas Brigade, under Col.
Charles DeMorse, Walker's Brigade of Choctaw Indians, commanded by Col. Tandy
Walker, Khrumbaars batter, commanded by Capt. W. B. Khrumbaar attached to Gano's
brigade to the left.
Hughey's
battery, attached to Cabell's command, was placed on Cabell's line, on an
elevation to the left of the road—Khrumbaar's batter in the centre of Maxey's
Division.
The
enemy occupied a position on favorable high ground, in our front, with a portion
of it extending down the slope toward the open ground south.
The train was closed upon the road, in rear of the enemy's line.
Our
line being formed, the plan was to move Maxey's Division forward; the right of
it passing sufficiently to the left of the old field, south of the road to be
concealed, the left to [cut and fold in paper] so as to bring that Division
fronting the enemy, and to bring on the fight with that Division, and to throw
Cabell's Division forward through the field, into the fight so soon as Maxey's
Division became well engaged, and to move the forces on the right well forward
crossing the road.
In
compliance with the general plan, Maxey's division was at once put in motion,
and moved steadily as possible, considering the difficulties presented by broken
grounds, and dense undergrowth. Hughey's
battery was set to work to attract the attention from this movement.
The Division was delayed about half an hour from engagement longer than I
anticipated, owing to the nature of the ground.
Desultory firing had been going on for some time, followed by heavy
firing, and learning that the enemy was pressing hard upon Gano's Brigade, right
of Maxey's Division, I threw Green's Brigade of Missourians, of Marmaduke's
command to its relief. The Brigade
went gallantly, and with a will to do its work.
It arrived on the right of Gano's Brigade, just after the engagement on
that part of the line became heavy, and general, a part of the enemy's line
having fallen back.
Hot
work was going on all along the line from the right of Green's, to the left of
the Choctaw brigade, the extreme left of the line.
One
continual shout was heard, and an unfaltering advance of all that part of the
line.—Cabell's Division was immediately ordered forward, going in splendidly,
charging in double quick over the open field into the fight.
The
fight was now general all along the line, our men pressing forward, and the
enemy going back everywhere—not a false step had been made, not a position
attacked but was taken. The road
was gained, and the coveted train in our possession.
Step by step the enemy had withdrawn his artillery; but his forces being
routed, abandoned it, and his battery of four pieces fell into our hands.
Our
troops exultant with victory pressed forward for more than two miles, when they
were recalled by me, to complete the task we come to perform.
The
brigades were reformed; details rapidly made, and the train put in motion on the
road to Woodlawn, where the last of it arrived in safety, together with the
battery, about midnight.
The
battle of Poison Springs was fought about ten miles from Camden.
Our force was between Camden, and the enemy.
Of the force in front I had no fears.
The force in rear at Camden, was known to be greatly superior to us in
numbers, and could at any time after they were notified by the artillery, have
moved on our rear. To secure the
train I moved Cabell in the road toward Camden, left Marmaduke in rear—moved
Maxey's division in front of the train, and requested Fagan, who was in the
middle Camden road, to hold that position, and reinforced him with Gano's
brigade of Maxey's division. This made the road over which the captured property
passed, as safe as it could be with the force in hand.—About thirty wagons
without teams, and some broken, were burned in the field.
About one hundred and seventy with teams, and everything complete were
saves. The artillery also.
The
enemy's force was about twenty-five hundred.
At no time did we have that many engaged.
His loss in killed, and wounded, will reach six hundred and fifty.
The proportion of killed was variously estimated, at from three to five
hundred. I know they were thick.
In making a report, where my knowledge of the troops with whom I have
been associated but a very short time (except my own division) is necessarily
imperfect, I fear to do injustice unintentionally; the more so that in this
report, I have not the benefit of General Marmaduke's report of his division.
I can
only say so far as my observation extended every officer, and man did his
duty.—
The
plan of battle was in every particular carried out.
Hughey's Battery by its timely and splendid work drew attention from
Maxey's division; and in turn, that and Green's brigade with the unerring
fire of Khrumbaar's battery drew attention from Cabell's command, until it had
partially succeeded in crossing the open field.
Finally the whole line moved forward like a sheet of living fire,
carrying death and destruction before it.
To the
indomitable energy of Capt. Khrumbaar in carrying his battery over ground almost
impassible, and the subsequent working of his battery, much of the success of
Maxey's division is due.
I bet
leave to call special attention to the Choctaw brigade. These people came of their own volition.
No law or treaty compelled them to do so—they were placed on the
extreme left of the attacking division. Nobly
gallantly and gloriously, they did their duty.
They fought the very army (Thayer's from Ft. Smith) that had destroyed
their once happy homes, insulted their women, and driven them with their
children, destitute upon the world—and many an avenging blow was struck—many
yet will be.
The
troops from Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas, vied with each other in honorable
emulation.
To
Major Wood's commanding Mo. Battalion, and to his battalion, I am much indebted
for valuable assistance in saving the train, and to others who lent a cheerful
helping hand, whose names I do not know.
The
various members of my own staff, were of great service. Col. E. E. Portlock, Capt. c. W. Ballance, Lt. Jas.
Patterson, and A. E. Eliason, acting A. D. C. of my staff, were left with my
division, to aid its movements in the execution of the plan of battle, and
rendered valuable, and important service to the Choctaw brigade, with which they
acted, in executing the difficult task of moving a line into action over rough
ground, and through dense undergrowth, and bringing it out at the right time,
and in the right place, by partial change of front.
Capt. Ochiltree, my Asst. Adjt. General, & Capt. W. H. Lewis chief
Ord. Officer, were of great service with me, gallantly conveying orders all over
the field; my Aid de camp, Lieut. R. C. Andrews, had been sent by me to the
rear, to communicate with Gen. Fagan, and lost part of the fight.
Lt. Mebane had also been detached on important duties.
Being sort of staff officers a portion of the time Lt. W. Harris of my
escort assisted.—He, and Lt. Barfield, and the escort, were of great service,
carrying orders wherever needed.
For
the action of officers, and men of particular commands, I call attention to
reports filed.
In
closing this rough, and hastily drawn report, written with all the
inconveniences of picket duty around, I take great pleasure in acknowledging
myself very greatly the debtor of Brig. Marmaduke.
I found him on the field with an intelligent understanding of the enemy's
strength and position.
In the
formation of the line of battle, in its plans and conduct, I consulted with him
freely, and with great advantage.
At my
request, he passed from the right down to the left of the entire line, cheering,
and encouraging by his presence, and bright example.
Gen. Cabell managed his command with great skill, carrying it most
successfully through a very exposed position into the fight.
The
Brigade commanders of Maxey's Division, Col. Charles DeMorse 29th
Tex. cavalry, and Col. Tandy Walker, 1st Choctaw & Chickasaw
Regt. for their skill, gallantry, and daring in conducting their commands into
the fight successfully, through such difficulties, and those who assisted,
deserve great credit. Of the
Choctaw brigade, I have already spoken. The
Texas brigade did its whole duty, gloriously fighting, as Texans know how to
fight.
The
substantial fruits of the victory, are a Four gun Battery of Artillery, and
about one hundred and seventy wagons, and teams saved, about thirty wagons
destroyed—between six and seven hundred killed and wounded.
Over one hundred prisoners, and the force that fought us
demoralized—but above all the splendid effect on our men.
In making this report I omitted to say in the proper place, that the
troops were fought dismounted, only a sufficiency being left mounted to cover
the flank, and act as a guard on the Camden road in rear.—I respectfully refer
to accompanying reports filed. l It should be borne in mind that all these
nominal Division were small; were dismounted for action, and one fourth consumed
in holding horses—I believe not more than eighteen hundred were engaged at any
time.
I have the honor to be
Very Respty, your ob't. Servt.
S. B. Maxey,
Brig. Gen.
Lt.
Col. J. T. Belton, A. A. G.
Dist.
Ark. In Camp.
[Casualty numbers listed]
Skip to May 28, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], May 28, 1864
Skip to September 3, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 3, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
A late
number of the London Review has the following amusing criticism on the French,
in regard to a certain particular:
"The
French, since the Revolution, are a polite, but not essentially a chivalrous
nation. They look upon women, not
with the exaggerated homage of the American, nor with the inbred reverence of
the Englishman, but with the gallantry of a nation that adore without respecting
beauty. A lady represents to a
Frenchman, gaiety, pleasure, elegance—in fact, the luxuries, and perfume of
life.
With
all a Frenchman's finished ease in talking to a woman, there is always something
intensely disagreeable at the bottom of his tone, and in the inmost recesses of
his eye. The truth is, that the
French, with all their idealism, mix materialism in still larger quantities.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 3, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
A few
days since, Maj. Howard of Gen'l Watie's command, attacked a party of Federals
on the Verdigris, killing several negroes, and burning three mowing machines,
and a very large quantity of hay. As
our party was returning to the command, they were attacked by a larger body of
Feds, who killed several of our men. Maj.
Howland is wounded, and missing. He
is a brave, and efficient officer.
A few
days before this, Gen'l Watie attacked a body of Feds in Gunter's Prairie, near
Fort Smith, took a large number of mules, killed fifty, or sixty Feds,
completely surprising them, but being outnumbered withdrew.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 3, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
On the
27th, or 28th of last month, a detachment of 100 men of
Brown's battalion, raised in Washington, Benton, and Crawford counties, Ark.,
picked up two sutler's wagons guarded by 60 men, on the Fayetteville, and Van
Buren road, within 16 miles of Van Buren, killed forty of the men, including a
Captain, and one Lieutenant, and carried off the wagons, and contents.
Skipped to September 17, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 17, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
For Sale
By
Charles Fassitt,
at The Clarksville Post Office:
Opium,
Laudanum,
Paregoric.
Camphor,
Veratrum
Vermifuge,
Paint-brushes,
Bi
Carb Potash,
Nux Vomica,
Gamboge,
Castor Oil.
75 lbs. Best Snow White Zinc,
100 lbs. Bridgewater paint,
25 lbs. Best Paris Green in Oil,
100 lbs. "
Prussian Blue,
5 lbs. "
Chinese Blue,
5 lbs. "
Vermillion in Oil,
5 lbs. "
Venetian Red.
5 lbs. "
Indian Red,
7 lbs. "
Chrome Yellow,
6 lbs. "
Ivory Black.
5 lbs. "
Umber.
25 lbs. Spanish Brown.
300 lbs. best quality nails, 12s 10s 8s & 6s.
150 lbs. Putty.
6 Boxes of French Glass, 12 by 18.
20 gals. Linseed Oil.
2 gals. Rosin Oil.
20 sheets of tin.
9 pieces fine Manilla cord, for Buggy lines.
10 lbs. Litharge.
7 lbs. fine Lamp Black.
3 Reams fine stamped note paper.
20 Packs Porcelain visiting cards.
10 pints best Maynard, & Noyes Ink.
100 Packages Envelopes.
1 Super Polished steel shovel, tongs, and poker.
1 pair Ornamental iron Andirons.
2 Circular iron furnaces, for household use.
1 Ornamental Napkin Drier.
3 Large Ornamental Door Scrapers.
Brass Candlesticks—Japanned Waiters.
Small lot files—mill saw—hand saw, and rat tail.
3 Gross screws, 3 inch, 1¼ inch, & inch brass screws
Brass Bolts, and Clothes Hooks.
Small quantity superior goose quills.
Linen cord, for Ladies dresses.
Manilla Fishing lines—2 sizes.
Shot Gun Cartridges—Colts manufacture.
Small quantity English Diamond glazed powder.
Varieties of Gold & Silver Fringes.
1 Chair Cushion,
1 piece of black Thule,
1 "
Black Hat Crape,
1 "
White Silk Fringe,
1 Small Gunsmith's Vice,
1 "
Narrow black Fringe,
1 Box Straw Flowers for Bonnets.
All of which will be sold for specie, or its equivalent in Confederate New
Issue, or Louisiana issue.
Clarksville,
Texas, Sept, 6th 1863.
Skip to September 24, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], September 24, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
Skip to October 1, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
Gov.
Vance, of North Carolina, in a recent correspondence with Mr. Seddon, Secretary
of War, uses the following language: "If
God Almighty had yet in store a plague worse than all others, which he intended
to let loose on the Egyptians, in case Pharoah still hardened his heart, I am
sure it must have been a regiment or so, of half armed, half disciplined
Confederate cavalry. Had they been
turned loose among Pharoah's subject with or without an impressment law, he
would have been so sensible of the anger of God, that he never would have
followed the Children of Israel to the Red sea."
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
[add to advertisement above]
Iron Staples for Saddle trees.
10 yds. sheet Zinc.
10 cans Green Turtle Soup,
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
From
Arkansas we have official report of the capture by Shelby, of five fortified
Stations of the enemy on the Little Rock, and Duvall's Bluff road, within six
miles of Duvall's Bluff; the capture of 577 prisoners, including one Colonel,
and eleven line officers; ten miles of the railroad completely destroyed—the
ties burned, and the iron bent; Telegraph destroyed; bridges, and trestle works
ruined; 300 males hay burned; 20 mowing machines chopped up; 500 stand small
arms distributed to troops needing them, and salt, clothing, horses, etc.,
brought off. The Stations were
razed to the ground. Shelby's loss
of all kinds 173.
Shelby
is now said to be at Ironton, on the iron mountain railroad, within easy reach
of St. Louis; Price near Springfield.
From
the Indian Territory, we learn that the Texas Brigade, under temporary command
of Col. R. M. Gano, attacked the enemy's train from Fort Scott, on the road
about fifty miles above Fort Gibson, and after several hours fighting, captured
250 wagons, part of which were so damaged as to prevent their removal; that 130
have been brought to this side of the Arkansas. this is good news, and tends to cripple the enemy, who is
compelled to get supplies at Gibson, and Fort smith from that direction.
General Watie is still above, and may overhaul another detachment of the
train. One report is that Gen'l
Watie was engaged in the taking of this train.
We shall have particulars by our next.
One hundred, and fifty prisoners, or thereabout were taken, and the
enemy's loss in killed, and wounded, was heavy.
Our's light.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
On the
7th, and 8th of this month, the musical members of Gen'l
Maxey's staff, assisted by some of our ladies, give a concert in Clarksville,
for the procurement of clothing for the Texas troops in the Indian Territory.
We know it will be well worth attending, and afford much satisfaction to
the auditors, besides contributing to a most important, and patriotic object.
All should attend.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
A man
was recently tried in Canada, and sentenced to confinement for 21 years in the
penitentiary for engaging men to go to the U. States, and enlist in their
armies.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 1, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
A
northern paper announces the arrival of fifty seven refugees from Texas, at
Santa Fe.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 8, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
The
Concert last night for soldiers clothing was a great success. To-night [illegible lines] classes who do not have the same
taste for Artistic Musical performance.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 8, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
The
most delicate way of putting the question to your intended is to ask her if you
can have the privilege of hanging your hat upon a nail in her room.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 15, 1864, p. 2, c. 1-3
Camp Bragg, C. N.
}
Sept. 29th 1864,
}
Editor Standard:--
We
returned last night from our successful raid north of the Arkansas river, a
brief outline of which may prove interesting to your readers.
On the
14th inst., Col. Gano, with the Texas Brigade, numbering 1200 men and
Gen. Watie, with 700 picked men from the 1st Indian Brigade, left
camp Pike for the purpose of destroying a large lot of hay, reported by our
scout to be on the Fort Gibson and Scott road; and to attack the enemy's train,
loaded with winter supplies of clothing, daily expected at Gibson.
On the
evening of the 15th we crossed the Arkansas at Chosky, and encamped
for the night at old Camp Pleasant, without any knowledge upon the part of the
Federals, that we were within their lines.
Early the next morning we were in the saddle, and on the march to make an
attack upon the hay party; who were quietly pursuing their occupation, and as
prisoners state, boasting that they were secure from Rebel surprise, now that
they were camped in the open prairie. Arriving
within seven miles of the place, the 1st Cherokee and the 30th
Texas cavalry, Capt. Strayhorn commanding, were ordered to move to the right,
and take position in rear of the enemy with a view of cutting off their retreat
from Grand River, and Fort Gibson, whilst the remainder of the command moved to
the foot of a large mound in the open prairie, and halted to give time to the
two former regiments to get into position.
From the top of this mound, with the aid of the glass, could be seen the
working party, mowing hay as if in perfect security.
Sufficient time having elapsed for the first detachment to get into
position, and move simultaneous with our own movement, the command moved rapidly
forward, to another mound within a mile and a half of the encampment.
Again a halt was called, and the position of the troops for attack
quickly made. The remainder of
Watie's Brigade moved to the [illegible] and northward of the encampment,
cutting off [illegible] that
direction, and forming the prong of [illegible] V; the 29th T. C.
leading off to the right at the same time, constituting the other prong; the
[illegible] regiments, and unattached companies of the Texas Brigade, with
Howell's battery, con[illegible] the apex of the letter, rushed forward to the
attack. The surprise was complete,
and be[illegible] we reached the camp, the Federals had evacuated it, and the
cavalry portion were flying in every direction, endeavoring to make their
escape. The infantry (negroes)
after running some two hundred yards down the creek, and in the direction of the
Grand River, perceiving the 30th Texas cavalry in their rear, and all
hope of a successful retreat cut off, halted in the brush, behind trees on the
creek, and opened on the charging column. An
immediate demand for surrender was made, with the assumption that their lives
would be spared. This they refused
to do, and fired upon the officer who bore the flag.
A few rounds were exchanged with them, by the scattered men from the
various commands. Failing to
dislodge them, Howell's Battery was ordered to open.
One shot thrown in their midst, had the desired effect:
they scattered in all directions along the Creek.
The troops were dismounted and penetrated the woods upon both [sides?
banks?], as well as up and down it.
Singular to say but few could be found.
The vengeance of the red [?] man was not thus to be appeased, and his
natural sagacity suggested that in the creek, and under the tall grass and
bushes overhanging the banks, the "contrabands" might be found.
A search proved the supposition to be correct, for there sure enough,
with noses protruding from under the water, the foe had secreted himself.
Call to memory the Choctaws at Poison Springs, and you have the remainder
of the fight described. I leave off
here to [illegible] up the result. The
enemy numbered 175, and were encamped on Flat Rock Creek, 17 miles north of
Gibson, on the main road from Scott, to Gibson, of this force 90 were taken
prisoners, and between 65 and 80 killed. 200
six shooters, and half the number of breach loading rifles were captured, with
all their camp and garrison equipage; also of mowing machines, 30 wagons, and
3000 tons of hay burned.
We
encamped on the field for the night, and moved next morning up the road, in the
direction of Fort Scott after the train which the captured prisoners stated was
due at their camps that night; leaving Major Looscan in command of Hardeman's
Battalion, to contend with the force sent up from Gibson that night, and which
by this time had arrived. Battle
was offered them, which they declined, and at every charge made by Looscan upon
their columns, they gave way.
A
rapid march during the day brought us to within ten miles of Cabin Creek by
sundown, without anything definite as to the whereabouts of the train.
Under the supposition that the train had moved off down the Grand river
road, we moved back five miles, and encamped midway between the two roads, so as
to be accessible to either scouts in the meanwhile having been thrown forward,
and in rear, upon both roads. The
scouting party returned at daylight next morning, without any positive
information.
Learning
that there was a small party of Federals encamped at Cabin Creek, a depot for
supplies, enclosed by a stockade, Col. Gano called for 300 volunteers from the
Texas Brigade, for the purpose of attacking them. This call was instantly responded to, and with the volunteer
force, and two pieces of Howell's Battery, we moved forward, and arrived within
a mile, and a half of the place at 3 o'clock in the evening.
From this distance the tents of the enemy was discernible with the naked
eye, but not a single man could be discovered.
A reconnoisance [sic] of the place was immediately made, and the expected
train was discovered to be encamped there; but we could make no estimate of the
force from the fact that they were all within the stockade.
Upon the discovery of this, Gen'l. Watie was sent for, to come up with
the remaining force, and the artillery. We
retained our position until dark, when we withdrew to a better one, farther back
to our rear, to await the arrival of Watie.
This gallant officer, ever prompt, arrived at 12 o'clock, and the whole
line was moved forward, and a partial investment of the place was made.—The
enemy by this time infuriated with whiskey, would ride within a short distance
of our lines, and defy us to move up, and give battle.
Whilst
in this position the rumbling of wagons, and the confusion incident to the
gearing of mules, gave evidence that the enemy under cover of night, were
endeavoring to run off the train. Instantly
the command of column forward ringing upon the midnight air, aroused the
hitherto impatient attacking party, and upon ground already historic from
Watie's defeat last year, by the bright light of the moon, through the tall wet
grass, destined to be the final resting place of a few, our column with a shout,
rushed gallantly forward. The
bright flashes of musketry along both lines, the white smoke of the bursting
bombs, the whistle of the minnie ball, accompanied by the guttural sound of
Howell's artillery as it belched forth its iron messengers of death, at the hour
of midnight, under the brilliant lustre of the moon and stars, upon both parties
engaged in the death struggle, rendered the scene sublime.
After
a hotly contested fight of an hour's duration, the desired effect was
accomplished, for the time & ammunition being a serious matter with us, the
troops were withdrawn to a position secure from danger, to await the dawn of the
morning. We were not long in this
position, before the enemy under the impression that we had suffered
considerably in the attack, and were repulsed, again endeavored to remove the
train to the rear, when Martin's Regiment, and Hardiman's Battalion were ordered
forward and delivered two well directed rounds, which drew the enemy's fire for
about an hour, upon our entire line, but with the same effect upon the enemy.
The firing then ceased for the night, and Col. Vann with the two Cherokee
regiments, was ordered to take position in rear of the enemy on the Fort Scott
road, to intercept any part of the train that might have been removed, and to
catch all stragglers. At the dawn
of day four pieces of Howell's Artillery opened upon the enemy, while the two
remaining pieces were moved to our extreme left, and opened upon the right flank
of the enemy's position. The
Seminoles and Creeks, under Col. Jumper, conjointly with the 30th
Texas Cavalry, engaged them upon this flank, whilst the remainder of the Brigade
held its former position. Gano soon
detected that this was the weakest point, and the entire command was immediately
concentrated upon this position.
The 29th
Texas cavalry being first in position was ordered forward with the 30th,
drove in the enemy's sharpshooters, and wrested from them the bank of the creek,
and a large number of the wagons, behind which they had been fighting all the
morning, within two hundred yards of the stockade, and partially in its rear.
Howell's Artillery supported by Martin's Regiment, and Hardiman's
Battalion, were immediately thrown forward within six hundred yards, and the
Battery opened.—Martin's Regiment (Maj. Mayrant com'dg.) was then moved
forward, and took position upon the right of the 29th T. C.
Under cover of a heavy fire from Howell's Battery, a charge was ordered,
and the three regiments moved forward, and were received by a volley from the
enemy, from the stockade. High
above the red tide of battle waved the Stars and Bars, but higher, still higher,
rise the shouts of the victorious troops as they pour into the stockade and take
possession of it. The entire train
is now in our possession, with its vast amount of stores.
One hundred and sixty two wagons out of the three hundred and twelve, are
all that can be saved, the enemy having broken the tongues of the greater
portion of them.
Stubborn
fighting has heretofore been the order of the day, this must now give way to
skilful manoevering, for to Forts Baxter and Neosho, reinforcements have been
sent for, and are hourly expected. Between
us, and the Arkansas, there is already a force of about 600 men confronting us.
Col. Gano immediately moves forward to attack these, whilst the train is
brought to a halt. The Batteries
from both sides open, and an artillery duel at long range is kept up until dark,
between both parties, and under cover of the night the train is moved off. What a ruse we played upon the enemy that night to induce
them to think the train was still with us, it may not be politic to state, as we
may have use for it again. Sufficient
to say that when day dawned; to their surprise no train was to be seen, but
there in battle array, flushed with victory, and still defiant, stood the ragged
Texas rebels, still eager for fight. Seeing
no disposition upon the part of the enemy to give battle, Col. Gano withdrew his
command, and followed the direction of the train, without any farther
molestation from the enemy. Last
night, much exhausted, with 140 wagons, rich in plunder from the conquered
enemy, the entire command arrived at this camp.
Conspicuous
for his daring and gallantry was Col. Jno. Jumper, commanding Seminoles, and
Creeks. His towering form was
always to be seen in the thickest of the contest, a conspicuous mark for the
enemy, as he mingled among his braves, encouraging them, and setting for them a
noble example.
But to
none is more credit due, than to Captain Howell, and his gallant company.
The artillery fire during the fight was well directed, and was
encouraging to both whites and Indians. Perfect
harmony existed between the two Brigades, during the fight, and the march; in
fact unity of purpose and action existed every where.
To the
indomitable energy of Gen. Watie, and Col. Gano, the country is indebted for
this victory. They were everywhere
in the hottest of the action; now gallantly leading the charge; again
encouraging the men to their utmost exertions.
The
result of the trip is the safe arrival within our lines, of 140 wagons; a large
amount of clothing, boots, and shoes, to troops that were suffering for them,
with much uncertainty about a supply through the Agents of the Government.
The
force of the enemy at Cabin Creek was about 800 men.
Yours Truly,
Private.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 21, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 29, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
The
LaGrange True Issue says the Government shoe shop in that place is now in full
operation, and turning out over 1000 pairs of shoes every month.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], October 29, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
The
Flag of Peace.—The peace flag has at last been flung to the breeze in New York
[illegible] the length of an August day it waved from the Cooper Institute,
gladdening many a heart with its mute prophecy. Too long had the insanguined banner of Mars, or the baleful
black flag of Abolition waved triumphantly over our city, so long had the
emblems of hate and force polluted the pure air of heaven, and insulted the
sorrows of our people; but at last—harbinger of the dawning of a better
day—our eyes, offended by the gloom of the one, and the glare of the other,
rested on the Flag of Peace with its blessed blazonry, and its inspired motto.
The
flag, which was the gift of the ladies of New York, was costly, and beautiful,
worthy of the donors and the cause. It
was of spotless white, and in the centre a dove was represented bearing an olive
branch, and beneath was the inscription, "Peace on earth.
Good will toward all men."—Metropolitan Record.
Skip to November 19, 1864
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
Just Received, and
For Sale,
15 lbs. Blue Mass.
80 dr.
Morphine.
50 oz. Quinine.
20,000 Percussion Caps.
700 pr. Cotton Cards.
Sugar
and Coffee
Indigo
Salt and Tobacco
Hog's Lard.
By J. H. Darnall.
Clarksville, Nov. 12th, 1864.
Printers
Fee $36, N. I.
no.4—3
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
Paper---Ink,
Super Congress Letter paper.
Large size stamped Note paper.
Extra heavy large foolscap.
Large, tinted letter paper.
Ruled Folio Post, fine quality.
Best Maynard, & Noyes Ink.
All
purchased before the war, and of better quality than is now introduced for sale.
Will be sold at the Clarksville Post Office, for old issue of Confederate
money, for a short time.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
Liberal
Donation.—The negro band, Shreveport Minstrels, have recently given four
concerts for the benefit of the Soldier's Home, of this place, which netted
$2235, the amount has been paid over to the treasurer of the
association.—South Western.
Skip to June 10, 1865.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], July 22, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
Mendenhall's Hand Loom.
This Machine, invented by Mr. Mendenhall, of Richmond, Ind., seems to be
an admirable contrivance for saving the labor and facilitating the operations of
the hand-loom weavers. It is not
complicated, nor liable with fair usage to get out of order, and performs its
work by the simple turning of a crank—which is by no means laborious—being
far less so than the strain upon the muscles in ordinary hand-loom weaving.
Our farmers' wives and daughters who thriftily make much of the clothing
which they and their husbands, and parents wear can understand the difference
when they are informed that this machine will turn out from 15 to 20 yards per
day.
Its
inventor claims for it, and we presume truly, that "its parts are all
self-changing, requiring no skill to weave, letting off, as it does, the warp
from the warp beam, winding up the cloth, throwing the shuttle, and treading the
treadles all by one motion. When
the warp is once drawn through the reed, and harness of the self acting loom, on
the same warp, and without any extra machinery jeans, satinetts, tweeds, single,
and double plain cloth, various kinds of ribbon goods, fencing twills of all
kinds, duck goods, flax, and tow linens, balmoral skirt goods, &c., can be
made on the same warp, and the changes from one kind of goods to another can be
made in five minutes. No other loom
can weave all these kinds of goods on the same warp with the same "drawing
in."
It is
a much more sightly, and compact machine than the ordinary hand-loom, filling
about the same space as a common breakfast table. When its merits become generally known to the farmers of
Illinois, and Missouri, we have but little doubt that these labor, and
money-saving machines will come into extensive use among them.—St. Louis
Republican.