Crossed Sabers

Cory Letters - September 1863

2008-08-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

Note: Cory’s discharge for disability finally came through in June 1862. His war wasn’t over, however. In August 1863 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a “landsman,” and was assigned to the gunboat USS Signal.

The USS Signal was a 190-ton steamship acquired by the US Navy in St Louis, Missouri on September 22, 1862. She was a wooden-hulled, stern-wheel steamer equipped as a gunboat, or “tinclad.” After the fall of Vicksburg in July 1863, the Signal served as a dispatch vessel patrolling the Mississippi River to interdict Confederate shipping.

In this last letter of the series, he writes home about life on board ship and the relative beauty of the shores of the Mississippi River around Island No. 10 and Fort Pillow.

On Board the Gun Boat
Signal Sept 12th 1863

Dear Mother,

We left Cairo Thursday and are on our way to New Orleans. I thought I should not write untill I got there but as it is a good ways yet I will write you a note any way. The ship is in motion, the men are busy cleaning guns filing saws too. I am sitting so close to the engine that I can feel it in my back it is the only place that I can find sit-down. I will not attempt to describe the scenery along the Mississippi, let it suffice that it is the most deserted looking country that ever I have seen. Log cabins will average one in five miles. We came through from Chicago to Cairo on the Ill. Central R.R. & I had a pretty good chance to see that portion of the state that is termed beautifull. Bah. Give me my own clean native land, as someone name forgotten once wishes remarked.

I have had two different Billets since I came aboard. I expect a better one still. First I was Purser’s steward or Paymasters clerk. I am now acting as yeoman, I have charge of all ships stores, the magazine & co. I do not have to stand guard nor do work of any kind excepting keeping accts. We passed Island No.10 & are now approaching Fort Pillow. It is getting pretty much hot here & I will wind up by sending much love to all everyone.

Affectionate son
James Cory

Address
James H. Cory
U.S. Gun Boat Signal
Cairo, Ill.

Aftermath: James apparently continued to have issues with his arm, because he was discharged again “in accordance with a medical survey” on December 15, 1863 from the receiving ship “Clara Dotson.”

His discharge may have been fortunate, for the USS Signal was burned and her entire crew captured while supporting the Red River Expedition on May 4, 1864. The crew was held as prisoners of war at Camp Ford, near Tyler, Texas, until they were exchanged.

Sadly, the war ended tragically for the Cory family. George Cory never returned home to Michigan. He was killed in Chicago, Illinois on August 28, 1865. His brother Nathan Cory enlisted in Company G, 3rd NY Infantry as a private in Albany, New York on May 14, 1861. He died on Hilton Head, South Carolina on October 27, 1863.

Enlistment oaths

2008-08-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

My good friend Patty Millich turned up an 1861 version of the army oath of enlistment in the July 11, 1861 edition of The Alleghenian of Ebensburg, PA. I thought it might be interesting to list the oath as it was then and compare it to the same oath administered to enlistees today.

1861:

The following is the oath which all volunteers and regulars mustered into the service of the United States are required to take before their final enrollment into service: “I do solemnly swear that I will bear true allegiance to the United States of America; that I will serve them honestly and faithfully against all enemies or opposers whatsoever; that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and of the other officers appointed over me, according to the rules of the armies of the United States, so help me God.”

Today:
"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."
The 1861 oath depicts the wording first adopted in 1789. The oath was modified under Title 10, US Code; Act of 5 May 1960, with amendment effective 5 October 1962

Mecum, Mecum and Mecum, 6th US Cavalry

2008-08-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

In my ongoing exploration of the enlistment documents and muster rolls of the 6th US Cavalry, I’ve come across several sets of brothers and cousins recently. The natural assumption would be that these relatives would initially enlist in the same unit to be together. What I have discovered in the case of these three brothers, however, was a reunion from other units into the 6th Cavalry during the war.

Richard H. Mecum was born on April 6, 1839 in Lycoming Co. PA. He enlisted as a private in Co. C, 11th Pennsylvania volunteers on April 16, 1861 and was honorably discharged at Harrisburg PA on August 15, 1861. He then enlisted in Co. F, 84th PA Infantry and was immediately made a sergeant. On October 25, 1862 he transferred into Co. L, 6th US Cavalry as a sergeant. He was sworn into the regiment by Lieutenant Ira Claflin near Knoxville, Maryland. Richard was discharged at the end of his term of service at Cedar Creek, VA on October 25, 1864 as a private. After the war, he settled in La Porte county, Indiana, where he married and settled down. He died there of heart disease on May 18, 1909, and was buried in Paltous Cemetery, La Porte, IN.

Jared M. Mecum born in Muncey, PA in 1839. He enlisted as a private in Company H, 5th PA Reserves on June 21, 1861. He deserted from this unit on October 28, 1861, and was sworn into Company A, 6th US Cavalry by Lt Claflin the same day. His 6th US Cavalry enlistment documents describe him as 22 years old, 5’6” tall, with dark hair, hazel eyes, and a light complexion. He was discharged at the expiration of his term of service as a private on June 22, 1864 at White House, VA. After the war, he returned to Pennsylvania, where he married and settled. Jared Mecum died on April 4, 1901 in St. Mary's, PA.

Charles W. Mecum was born on January 15, 1843 in Muncey, Lycoming County, PA. He enlisted in Co. F., 84th Regiment, Pennsylvania Infantry on 7 October, 1861. Lieutenant Claflin enlisted him into Company A, 6th U.S. Cavalry on October 27, 1862 at Knoxville, MD. His 6th Cavalry enlistment documents describe him as 19 years old, 5’4 ½” tall, with dark hair, hazel eyes and a dark complexion. Charles was discharged at the expiration of his term of service as a private at Harrisonburg, VA on October 7, 1864. After the war, he settled in Tioga County, PA, where he married and settled. He died on May 25, 1926 in Elmira, NY, and was buried in Hart Cemetery, Liberty, Tioga County, PA.

A fourth brother, William Mecum, enlisted into Company H, 5th PA Reserves with Jared on June 21, 1862 as a private. He didn’t survive long enough to “jine the cavalry” with his brothers, however. William died on July 27, 1862 of wounds received during fighting at Charles City Crossroads, VA on June 30, 1862.

Back in the Saddle

2008-08-21T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, at long last, I'm back to a normal schedule, with normal hours and, hopefully, a regular posting rate once again. Washington was nice, but it's much nicer to be back in warmer temperatures where one can see more than one mountain at a time (no disrespect intended to the absolutely stunning Mount Rainier).

So, I am now more or less firmly aboard my mount, with the fall semester started, my next to last MA class underway, and piles of research to process and organize. Partial posts have been accumulating over the last couple of weeks, so there should be a good bit new to read here in the near future. For those of you who have stayed faithful through the long summer of infrequent posting, thank you for your patience.

Cory Letters - April 1862

2008-08-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Note: Although James’ arm is slowly mending, he doesn’t seem very confident that he’ll be returning to duty. This letter offers poignant insight into the deteriorating situation at home, as his mother appears to be attempting to foster out one of James’ brothers. I believe his problems receiving his pay rise from the fact that he wasn’t with his regiment.

Kalorama Hospital, Apr /’62

Dear Mother& Sister,

What is the reason that I dont hear from you, I have had no answer to my last two letters. I hope you will write soon & tell me how you get a long.

I can sit up now & I am going to ask the Doctor for my clothes in a few days so that I can go out doors. Where is Fred Myers, I have not see or heard from him. If I have no drawbacks I will be able to leave here in a month if not before.

My Regiment went to Fortress Monroe. I have not heard from it yet, I shal send you my money when I do. The first of may I have six months pay coming to me with that which the Lieuteant has. It is so pleasant so pleasant out doors that I can hardly stay in the house.

My arm is getting along famously I can raise it so as to touch my chin. It does not discharge any more. Have you heard from George yet or Pa or Nate. I would like to know what Regiment George belongs to.

Have you found a place yet for Frank. I feel that you have not. Please tell me the next time that you write. If I were to tell you that I had hopes of getting discharged I presume you would stay & wait my coming but get Frank a place & go a visiting for fear of being disappointed. If I get discharged I will come and see you. Besides it will save a great deal of expense I should not stay at home of course if I was able to earn my board on a farm. I wont be confined in a store or house if I can help it. It is three months since came here. My love to all & I am hoping you & Kate will write soon. I remain

James Henry Cory

Mrs. B.M. & Miss Kate Cory

The Brothers Oby

2008-08-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

Among those who enlisted in the 6th Cavalry during the summer of 1861 were the Oby brothers. Born in Jefferson County, New York, they were working as sailors when they were enlisted into Company B by Lieutenant James F. Wade in Cleveland, Ohio.

George W. Oby was born in January 1841, and 21 years old when he enlisted on June 29, 1861. His enlistment documents describe him as 5’ 8 ¼” tall, with hazel eyes, black hair, and a fair complexion.

His younger brother, David E. Oby, was 18 when he enlisted two days later on June 31st. His enlistment documents describe him as 5’ 8 ¼” tall, with hazel eyes, brown hair, and a ruddy complexion.

George was captured while a corporal on July 6, 1862 on the Peninsula, with privates Croishant and E.J. Headley. He was soon paroled and rejoined the company. He was serving as the first sergeant of Company B at the battle of Funkstown on July 7, 1863, where he was captured again. David was killed in action July 7, 1863 at the battle near Funkstown, Maryland as a corporal. George was discharged as a sergeant on July 29, 1864 at the expiration of his term of service.

George Oby married Louise Speaker in 1870. She was born in Pennsylvania in December 1840. They had two children, William J. (born 1871) and Eva S. (born 1875), both born in Ohio. The family settled in the Cleveland and Canton area of Cuyahoga County, Ohio.

George W. Oby died in Cleveland, Ohio on February 7, 1915, and is buried in the Alliance City Cemetery, Alliance, Ohio.

Land Warrants and Rations

2008-08-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

Land Warrants

I had noted in the last posted Cory letter that I hadn’t noticed anything about government land warrants for service during the Civil War. Patty Millich turned up the following information from the Ebensburg, Pennsylvania newspaper The Alleghanian in the May 16, 1861 issue:

"Every man who offers his services to his country in the present crisis and is mustered into the service will be entitled to Land Warrants, in addition to his regular pay, even if the war is closed in thirty days. Privates will receive 160 acres each; officers, larger tracts, in proportion to the rank they hold."

So now I know. Thanks, Patty!

Rations

The same day’s newspaper lists the following description of the composition of a day’s ration:

“What is a Ration?

For the information of numerous inquirers, we give the following list of articles constituting a ration from the army regulations:
20 oz. Fresh and Salt beef or 12 oz. Pork
18 oz. Soft Bread or Flour, or 12 oz. Hard Bread
2 2/3 oz. Beans or 1 3/5 oz. Rice
1 5/6 oz. Sugar
1 oz. Coffee, ground
¼ oz. Candies
2/3 oz. Soap
½ oz. Salt

This must answer for the subsistence of a soldier during the day and properly husbanded, it is enough.”

I've read several accounts that dispute this last statement, but the reporter couldn't be expected to know that at the beginning of the war.

Cory Letters -- March 25, 1862

2008-07-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

Note: John Parker was another private from Company E, 6th Cavalry. The mention of his shoulder running is most likely a reference to the draining of the abscess that he had there when he was admitted. I’m not sure what certificate he referred to. It could be a discharge certificate for disability, but the one in his records is dated June 1862. Kate’s letter may have been perused by censors, though I didn’t know they were active this early in the war. The reference to free government land is interesting, as I haven’t seen anything else offered but bounties so far in my research.

Kalorama Hospital
March 25th, 62

Dear Mother,

I am sitting on a big chair with a stand beside me & I take the opportunity of writing to you. I recd 2 letters from John Parker this forenoon they were at Alexandria. One he wrote last night, the other this morning. They have gone in the fleet to Fortress Monroe. He sent my satchel to Washington by express.

Our Tenant Frederick Scriver has gone to the city after it he is a good fellow. A young man died in here last night & there is another that is almost dead. About 6 weeks ago there was 81 Patients here now there is only 50. It is a week ago Sunday night since any died there was three died that night. They have inspection twice a week. There was 10 discharged from here this morning. There is but two sick ones in the room besides myself. My shoulder has got most done running and I can lay a great deal easier. I can walk some but my limbs are weak yet. I gain in flesh & strength & hope every day. It is a pleasant place this. I can look out of the window when sitting up. The opposite hills are covered with tents the men are drilling now about a thousand in No. John said he would write to me as quick as they landed and if they are going to stay in one place long enough I will send for that certificate & my pay & send them to you. I want you to tell me when you go over to Aunt Mary’s. Also where Homer is. Has Beagle left Adrian yet. When I got Kates last letter there was another envelope over it dated about three days later than it ought to be & from Washington.

They say that we wont get Paid off untill May there will be four months pay due us then. They are paying the western troops now. Have you heard from George yet. If I get discharged I shant get my $100 bounty but I can draw 160 acres of government land. How would you like to go out west and live. I know you wouldn’t like to leave Adrian.

Evening. I did not get my sachel they said it hadn’t come but could tomorrow & then if it hasn’t come leave the recpt & we will see to it. I hope you will write as often as you can & Kate to tell me all the news Ha Ha.

I cant think of anything more to write just now so good by write soon.
James H. Cory

Mrs. B.M. Cory

6th Cavalry -- July 1862

2008-07-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

The regiment continued active campaigning in July, withdrawing down the York River back to Fortress Monroe and shipping to Harrison’s Landing on the James River by month’s end. Companies C remained in Washington under Captain A.W. Evans. The regiment's assigned strength this month was 889 officers and enlisted men, down 32 from June.

Of the 42 officers assigned, 22 were listed as present for duty. Assistant Surgeon J.H. Pooley was detached from the regiment to work at Fortress Monroe, and Doctor D.L. Rogers joined in his place on July 18th. Captain August V. Kautz continued to command the regiment. Half of the regiment’s 12 companies were led by lieutenants. The deaths of Lieutenants Hugh McQuade and Peter McGrath finally showed in this month’s return.

Captain Kautz’ narrative of the month’s activities is listed at the bottom of the month’s muster rolls. The camp is listed as “Camp Harrison’s Landing Va.”

“Regiment left Yorktown on July 1st under Genl Emory and arrived at Hampton July 2nd. Embarked at Fortress Monroe July 7th and arrived same day at Harrison’s Landing on James River to present place of encampment.”

Five captured members of Company M from the Slatersville fight returned to the regiment as paroled prisoners this month. Unfortunately, eight more went missing and were supposed taken prisoner.

The regiment had 848 enlisted men at the end of the month, but only 607 present for duty. Of the 122 troopers absent, 12 were on detached service. The reason for the sharp decrease in absent soldiers was the arrival of Captain Brisbin’s Company L from Washington. Health conditions continued to take a toll on the regiment’s strength, with 62 troopers sick in camp and 96 sick in hospitals away from the regiment. 50 soldiers served on extra duties away from the regiment, mostly as teamsters for the Quartermaster Department. Two troopers were absent on leave, and one was absent without leave.

The monthly return reports one soldier died in June. Private Francis Erlanger of Company G died of disease at Devil’s Island on June 4, 1862. Thirteen privates deserted from the regiment this month. Six privates were discharged for disability since the last return.

Diverging Paths

2008-07-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Patrick and William McNamara were born in County Mayo, Ireland in 1832 and 1835 respectively. Both of them immigrated to the United States and enlisted in the 1st US Cavalry in 1856. Both of them reenlisted for a second term in Company F, 4th US Cavalry on October 3, 1861 for a three year term at Fort Kearney, Nebraska. Their reenlisting officer was 1st Lieutenant John A. Wilcox.

Patrick's reenlistment documents describe him as 5'8 1/4" tall, with light hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. He was 29 years old. William's documents list him as 5' 6 1/2" tall, also with light hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion at age 26.

In 1864, their paths diverged. William reenlisted for a third term as a private in Nashville, Tennessee on March 19th. Patrick was discharged at the end of his term of service as a private on October 3rd, also in Nashville, Tennessee. From there the two disappear into the mists of history.

Cory Letters -- December 12, 1861

2008-07-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

Note: This letter provides some insight to the financial straits on the homefront back in Michigan with him, his father and possibly another brother away in the army. Five dollars was nearly half a month’s pay for James at this time.

Dec. 12th, 1861

Dear Mother,

I recd your letter this noon (Thursday). I was glad to hear from you but sorry to hear that you were ill. You did not say whether you got that Dollar or not sent one to pay the Freight on that box: I sent a two & a half gol piece the fore part of this week.

I have been having my jacket fixed and when it comes back if I have a dollar left I will send it to you. I hope that you will get what I sent. If you can borrow five dollars untill next payday which ought to be the 1st of next month. I will send it to you and more if I can. I can not write any more tonight as I have got to go on stable guard from now (6 oclock) untill ten or so good night.

13th. It is very cold this morning in our tents. I hope we shall soon be in our barracks. For the last two or three days every odd minute that we get is occupied in putting and edge on our sabers. We have wore one small grindstone almost up. We grind untill Tapps eight oclock. My fingers are getting so cold that I cant write any more. If you get the money that I have sent I want you to tell me all of it. Write often and tell Kate to do so to.

From your son J.H. Cory

Mrs. B.M. Cory

Patrick Larkin, 5th US Cavalry

2008-07-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

Patrick Larkin was born in Galway, Ireland in 1843. He enlisted as a bugler in Company F, 2nd US Cavalry when it was forming in 1855.

He was reenlisted into the same company by Captain Richard W. Johnson at Fort Mason, Texas on June 1, 1860. He was 27 at the time of his reenlistment, and the papers describe him as 5'8" tall, with a dark complexion, dark hair and blue eyes.

Bugler Larkin escaped Texas with his company in early 1861, and was remounted at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania prior to the first battle of Bull Run. He continued to serve with his company until the winter of 1862-63. He was discharged for disability on February 24, 1863 at the regiment's Camp near Falmouth, Va.

(source: enlistment documents)

From One Side to the Other

2008-07-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

In early July 1862, the 6th US Cavalry moved from the York River side of the peninsula at Fortress Monroe to the James River side. Due to some confusion, they were initially the only regiment of regular cavalry to rejoin the army. The diary of Captain August Kautz, commanding the regiment this month, provides some insight into the move.

“July 7. --- We were turned out at 3 o’clock this morning and made arrangements to go on board transports. We got on board the Arrowsmith with my company and left about 8 o’clock. The passage was pleasant and uninterrupted, until within five or six miles of Harrison’s Landing, when we were fired into from both sides of the river by guerrillas. Some shots came very near, but no one was hurt. We got ashore immediately and were all comfortably in camp long before night. Boats that passed up before and after us were fired into by artillery from both sides of the river.” (Supplement to the Official Records, Volume 2, page 129)

From the following day’s entry: “All the squadrons arrived except the Third. It is reported that an order from the War Department has retained the balance of the cavalry at Fortress Monroe. General Emory has been relieved and assigned to Naglee’s Brigade of infantry. General Stoneman has been assigned to the command of all the cavalry in the Army of the Potomac.”

The Third Squadron, under the command of Captain Sanders of Company A, arrived on the 11th. On the 12th, Company L, commanded by Captain James S. Brisbin, finally joined the regiment from Washington.

Cory Letters - November 7, 1861

2008-07-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

Note: I have been unable so far to determine what unit(s) James’ father and brother Nate may have served in. George W. Haight was another private in Company E, 6th US Cavalry. The Lieutenant Colonel that Cory refers to is William H. Emory, who joined the regiment from service on the frontier with the 1st (later 4th) U.S. Cavalry at the outbreak of the war.

Camp east of Capitol Hill
Washington D.C. Nov 7th, 1861

Dear Mother,

I sent you a letter the other day and had I known what I know now I would have sent this small sum of money which I enclose now. I wish I had four times as much to send you. However every little helps and I am glad that I have as much as this to spare, it is half that I have and pay day is a good way of yet. I am sorry to hear about Nate’s disappointment. It may make him worse or it may make him better. I do hope that he will learn a lesson by it and never be caught like that again. I wrote him a good letter and I hope that he will write me a pleasant one in return.

This morning I dispatched two to MI, one to George and the other to William also one to Kate. I sealed it up in a hurry this morning without thinking to put the money in it our mail goes out early in the morning.

If Pa is agoing to answer my letter it is almost time that I knew it. I hope he will but I doubt it some for he did not answer them when I was to home. It makes me wish myself to home now you are all alone. I used to think that if George would go away from home I should be a little better boy he provoked me so and now that he is away it makes me wish my self to home once in a while.

I hope that this war will end and I be discharged because I want to go to school so bad. But I do not think there s any danger of their discharging us regulars untill our time is out. We will be sent on the Frontier probably as our Lieut.-Col (he will be our Col. I guess) is an old Frontiersman. George Haight heard him say that he should go there. I hope that it may be so if they keep us three years for they will not be so strict there and then I can get a Furlough to come home once a year.

If I get a letter from Pa or Nate I will tell you all about them. I do not know how long we shall stay here but if we remain a week longer our barracks will be done. I went through them to day. We are to have straw ticks and three will sleep in a bunk with some.

I want you to write once in a while twice in a while if you can and Kate six times as often. Tell me all about our old neighbors out of town and in. No more at present.
From your son James Cory.

Mrs. B.M. Cory
P.S. enclosed you will find a 2 ½ gold piece.
J.H. Cory

Rebuilding a Unit History

2008-07-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

In August of 1864, Mosby’s guerrillas captured and destroyed the regimental trains of the Reserve Brigade. These trains contained the regimental and company records and the personal effects of some officers. Some of the regiments’ wagons were saved and with them some of the records, but the majority of the regiments’ historical records for the 1st, 2nd, 5th and 6th U.S. Cavalry were lost.

After the war, the 6th U.S. Cavalry attempted to recapture those parts of its history that hadn’t reached the Adjutant General’s Office in Washington. On May 18, 1866, regimental adjutant Captain Adna R. Chaffee issued a circular to all of the companies directing them to report their activities during the war. Fortunately, many of the junior officers were still serving with the regiment. Captain Chaffee then compiled these company histories into a history of the regiment during the Civil War.

Many of these company histories have been lost, but I’ve been fortunate enough to acquire copies of several of them. In many instances, the officers submitting the reports were serving in the regiment as junior officers and sergeants during the war. There aren’t reports from the Greggs, Lowell and Kautz, but there are reports from McLean, Whitside and Irwin. It will take some time to work through them, but there have already been some intriguing tidbits of information.

Cory Letters - May 5, 1861

2008-07-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Note: Kalorama Hospital received all contagious disease cases in Washington such as smallpox, mumps, measles, typhoid and erysipelas. The cases were sent to Kalorama so as not to endanger more populous neighborhoods in the city. Formerly the mansion of a man named Fletcher, it rested on 100 wooded acres on Kalorama Heights on 21st Street NW. A Fred Myers served as a private in Company B, 6th US Cavalry, but since James only mentions him at this hospital he could be from any unit.

Kalorama Eruptive Fever
Hospital, May 5th 1861

Dear Mother,

Today I was more successfull than Saturday. I got my pay after going up in his office the second time. I went up to see fred myer & he told me to give them a Real King Nr that made me mispent & saucy. I hope that you will get it soon for I know that you need it. I mailed $25.00 or rather sent by Adams Express. I sent you a letter Saturday. When you direct your letters don’t put the Regt.

A young fellow that enlisted in Adrian is in a Hospital in the city. He will get his discharge I guess. The discharge a great many. If they come a round this way mabe they will throw me out. I ame very tired & cant think of anything to write. Write soon. Love to all. Yours & Co. J.H. Cory

Mrs. B.M. Cory

Introducing James H. Cory

2008-06-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have come across a brief series of letters from another regular cavalry enlisted man, this one from the 6th U.S. Cavalry. This series of six letters will be featured here over the course of the next month. The letters are from the Archives and Regional History Collections at Western Michigan University.

James H. Cory was born in Lenawee County, Michigan in 1842. He was working as a farmer at the outbreak of the Civil War. He was enlisted into Company E, 6th U.S. Cavalry by Lieutenant Stephen S. Balk at Adrian, Michigan on September 17, 1861. His enlistment papers describe him as nineteen years old, five feet ten inches tall, with a ruddy complexion, hazel eyes and brown hair. One can tell from his letters that James was from a poor farming family, and wasn’t overly literate, but they tell an interesting story nonetheless.

James served with the 6th Cavalry until June 4, 1862, when he was discharged for disability because he had been unfit for duty for 60 days in the previous two months. Lieutenant Benjamin Hutchins was commanding Company E at the time of his discharge.

He wasn’t with the regiment at the time of his discharge, but assigned to the Eruptive Fever Hospital Kalorama in Washington, D.C. The medical reason given by his examiner, acting assistant surgeon Robert J. Thomas, was “atrophy of the deltoid muscle of the right arm, the result of suporation from a large abscess the seguilar of variola confluence.”

Cory wasn’t out of the war yet, however. A year later he returned to service, this time in the navy. He enlisted as a “landsman” on August 27, 1863, and served on the gunboat “Signal.” Apparently he continued to have issues with his arm, because he was discharged again “in accordance with a medical survey” on Deecember 15, 1863 from the receiving ship “Clara Dotson.”

James H. Cory was killed in Chicago, Illinois on August 28, 1865. I haven’t yet discovered the cause of his death.

6th Cavalry -- June 1862

2008-06-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

The regiment continued active campaigning in June, moving up the peninsula as part of the advance guard of the Army of the Potomac. Ironically, by the end of the month the regiment was back in Yorktown. Companies C and L, not yet at full strength, remained in Washington under the command of Captain James Brisbin. The regiment's assigned strength this month was 921 officers and enlisted men.

Of the 42 officers assigned, 20 were listed as present for duty, including Assistant Surgeon J.H. Pooley. Captain August V. Kautz commanded the regiment at month’s end. Three of the regiment’s companies, D, E and F, were led by lieutenants. Captain Abert (D), 1st Lt Hutchins (E) and 2nd Lt Madden (M) were absent sick at “Coal Harbor” with regimental quartermaster 1st Lt John Spangler and the regimental trains at month’s end.

Captain Kautz’ narrative of the month’s activities is listed at the bottom of the month’s muster rolls. The camp is listed as “Camp near Yorktown Va.”

“The Regiment from the 1st until the 25th was engaged in scouting and picket duty in the vicinity of the Chickahominy. Marched and Encamped at various points near Richmond. Left Camp near Coal Harbor on the 25th. Marched toward Hanover and White House from thence to Yorktown on the 28th.”

Several members of the regiment were wounded while serving as the brigade’s provost guard during the battle of Gaines Mill on June 26th. Private H.C. Smith of Company H was wounded at the battle of Hanover Court House on June 27th.

The regiment had 800 enlisted men at the end of the month, but only 535 present for duty. Of the 245 troopers absent, 110 were on detached service. Health conditions continued to take a toll on the regiment’s strength, with 31 troopers sick in camp and 110 sick in hospitals away from the regiment. 23 continued to serve on extra duties away from the regiment, mostly as teamsters for the Quartermaster Department. 65 troopers were absent on leave, and one was absent without leave.

No soldiers died in June. One soldier is listed on the muster rolls, but it was a death from a previous month. Private Samuel Stevely of Company K died of disease at Ship Point, Virginia on April 27, 1862. Nine privates deserted from the regiment this month, five from Company I, three from Company M and one from Company K. Two privates from Company K, Morris Grooms and Clark Lattin, were discharged for disability on June 1st. Five troopers were listed as missing and assumed taken prisoner this month, two corporals and three privates.

Picket Duty - A Squadron Level View

2008-06-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

Picket duty during the Civil War is an area that interests me. I found this account of the macro view of picket duty during the Peninsula Campaign in an excerpt of Captain August Kautz’ diary found in Broadfoot Publishing’s Supplement to the Official Records. Unfortunately, I don’t think I have a soldier’s account of the micro view out here in Washington with me.

“June 18. -- Early this morning I was detailed to report at 9 o’clock, with my own and Captain Sander’s squadron. We were ordered to relieve Captain Magruder on picket at Haw’s. We reached Haw’s about noon and the afternoon was devoted to disposing our pickets. I visited all the points and made the connection with General Stoneman’s right. The position is a pleasant one. We get plenty of cherries, berries and vegetables from the inhabitants. I placed my reserve at Haw’s and placed my videttes on the only two roads there are to approach on. Six contrabands came in from Hanover Court-House. They report pickets there but no force.

“June 19. -- I made a small map and sent a report showing how the videttes are posted to General Cooke this morning. In the afternoon I sent for some papers and the mail....” (Supplement to the Official Records, Volume 2, pages 125-126).

Bates Letters -- December 12, 1863

2008-06-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Note: This is the last of Charlie’s letters for 1863. It will be the final one posted this summer. I haven’t decided yet when to start posting the 1864 letters. In this missive, we find Charlie enamored of Huntsville and planning on voting for McClellan.

Huntsville Alabama
December 12th 1863

Dear Parents

I believe we are “settled down” for the winter, and I don’t want to be in a better place than this for the cold weather. Huntsville is a very pretty city and formerly contained about nine thousand inhabitants. It is celebrated for the “big spring,” and the healthy climate in its vicinity. The spring is a stunner, affording more water than the Pomperary river (in dry weather) and the location of town is so remarkably healthy that the citizens had to borrow a corpse to start a graveyard with. Our camp is situated on a beautifully wooded knoll, just such an one as Cooper would delight in assigning for the picturesque camp of some Indian tribe, or Walter Scott would select for some story of Scottish chivalry. From the top, a fine view of Huntsville is obtained, and thanks to the warm climate of the sunny south, we are comfortable. I received a letter from you three days ago, but had to go on guard one day, and spent two days in fixing my quarters, so your letter had to wait a reply. I now have a very comfortable little snuggery built about ten feet square with fire-place, chimney, and all the modern --- Modern Improvements, and intend to take a good comfortable winter rest. General Grant is doing things up in a hurry, and may interupt my pleasant fancies but I hope not.

There is considerable rain here, three days out of four we have been here it has rained but I dont think such weather can last forever we must have some pleasant days, and even the rain does not make the roads as muddy as the used to in Virginia. Speaking of Virginia brings me to the Army of the Potomac again and I see that Meade is at some of the incomprehensible strategy of all the other Generals; falling back to allow Lee to reinforce Longstreet, of a surety we have some chivalrous Generals they scorn to take a mean advantage of a man and when they have the Rebs at a disadvantage they hold up to show fair play. Bully for them. I suppose before you get this McClellan will be nominated for president at least I hope so. Not that I expect to see him elected for that I judge to be out of the question with as many candidates in the field as there will be for the Democratic party, but give him a try for it anyhow. I am going to vote for him a dozen times if I can.

In Mothers letter to me she says the banks only take four hundred a year on deposit. Will you tell me how it is, I always thought a bank would receive any amount. I am in hopes of getting a few day furlough this winter if we stay here, and shall pay you a visit if possible, but dont think it is certain for I hardly think I can have so much luck. However get a barrel of cider ready, for I might.

I cant write about the war news as we dont get it till long after you do, and the other news is not obtainable so excuse my short letter, better luck next time perhaps.

I remain affectionately
Charles E. Bates

R.I.P. This Week In Blogs

2008-06-15T14:11:00.000-07:00

I noticed a post at Civil War Interactive this week that their weekly column “This Week In Blogs” has been discontinued. This column, written by the very dedicated and talented Laurie Chambliss, reviewed 35-40 of the most active Civil War blogs every week and summarized their postings. It was a quality column, and written with style. There were several occasions when I thought Laurie’s summary was more entertaining than my actual posts.

Such a column by its very nature was extremely time-consuming, however, and it has been decided that that time can be put to better use elsewhere. The column is still available on the website, and now provides brief descriptions of all of the featured blogs. Thanks for all of your hard work, Laurie, and best of luck with future endeavors at Civil War Interactive and elsewhere.

The Travelling Blogger

2008-06-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the scarcity of posts over the last week or two, but we’ve reached that time of year when those who teach young college and university cadets to become army officers must head to the great northwest to train them at summer camp. Things have been a bit hectic getting settled and prepared for the summer’s events, but I am now more or less comfortably ensconced in my hotel (not, fortunately, the one with the bedbug problem) and ready to resume posting. I don’t have all of my resources due to space and airline weight restrictions, but posting will resume at a rate of one to two posts per week as time permits. The last Charles Bates letter for 1863 will post tomorrow, to be followed by several Fiddler’s Green entries, monthly updates on the 6th Cavalry in 1862, and another series of letters by an enlisted man in a different regiment. At least one book will be reviewed as well, as soon as my Father's Day present makes it from JD to Gina to me out here in Washington. Stay tuned.

Bates Letters - November 5, 1863

2008-06-09T05:38:00.000-07:00

Brownsville, Ala Nov 5th

Dear Parents

It is so long since I have written to you that I suppose you have long since thought me in the Richmond Prisons, or perhaps in the grave, but thank God I am still in “the land of the free,” and in as good health as any mortal is privileged to enjoy. Since writing to you last (at Salem, Tenn.) my adventures have been rather of the fatiguing order, and nothing marvelous has fallen to my own particular lot, if I except my capture by the “rebs” and escape from bondage, all of which hapned (sic) since last Sunday.

I was with the advance of Gen. Stanleys Cavalry last July on its advance into Alabama, and have been with the regiment ever since. At the beginning of the famous Chickamauga battle my brigade, commanded by Colonel Mintty was the first in action, loosing 198 men the first day skirmishing. And my Regiment was the last to enter Chattanooga, being on the rear guard.

When Wheeler crossed the river at Washington to make his “raid” around our army my regiment was the first to encounter his force, (and the first to run away) and we perserveringly followed him until he recrossed the river at Rogersville. I charged on two “rebs” singlehanded and captured both, horses, revolvers and one rifle being the “spoils of war” accrueing to Government from my exploit.

My old War-horse, Jayhawker, got shot in the foreleg and disabled at McMinnville, and I have since been riding “common stock.” I got a very good horse from one of my captive rebs, but lost him last since by getting myself taken prisoner. I heard $800.00 offred for him (in secesh money) and refused the same day. I am now without a horse, and no prospect of getting another speedily.

The Secesh got possession of all my clothing at McMinnville, and I was left without a change of shirt but hope to make them pay for it some time. We are living on the country most of the time, having only been --- issued with eighteen days rations in two months, but we manage to exist even without “hard-tack.” I am so far from any news dept that newspapers are fifteen days old before they get here and news is out of the question here. It may be news to you to learn that 33,000 men from the Army of the Mississippi under command of General Sherman are within one days march of here at present, and coming up to join the Army of the Cumberland at Chattanooga. They are in fine condition as I hear from some of our men who were with them yesterday, and I expect that Something is going to be done soon.

It is so long since I have written any that my fingers get cramped up so I shall say good bye for the present. Give my love to all and write to me at earliest opportunity.

I am affectionately

Charles E. Bates
Co E 4th U.S. Cavalry
Maysville, Ala.

Offical reports vs private journals

2008-06-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes interesting to compare what people say in their official reports to what they may record in their diaries or letters home. Two such accounts of the same event by the same person are pretty rare, but I’ve come across a case on this same day in 1862.

Captain August V. Kautz was directed to take an expedition consisting of his squadron (Companies B and H) of the 6th U.S. Cavalry and two squadrons of the 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry to burn the ferries across the Pamunkey River and arrest Doctor Carter W. Wormley. At this time his was the only squadron in the regiment armed with carbines. Listed below are his official report of the event from the Official Records, and an excerpt from his journal for these two days, published in the Supplement to the Official Records by Broadfoot Publishing.

The official report, submitted to brigade headquarters:

“Camp near Richmond, Va.,
June 3, 1862

Sir: In obedience to instructions received I have to report that I proceeded with my squadron, armed with carbines, and two squadrons of Lancers to New Castle, on the Pamunkey River, yesterday afternoon, where I found the ferry-boat destroyed by some previous party. I ascertained the same to be true at Bassett’s and Pipingtree, farther down the river, by sending a squadron of Lancers to each point. I arrived at Wormley’s Ferry so late last evening that I could do nothing, as the boats were on the opposite side of the river, as is also Dr. Wormley’s residence, where I expected to find him. I therefore returned to New Castle and encamped.

Through information obtained last evening and the aid of a slave recently escaped I was enabled to find the ferry-boat belonging to Dr. Wormley’s ferry concealed in a creek near by on the north side of the river, together with the sloop Golden Gate, about 25 tons, from Norfolk, eight wooden boats, and one metallic life-boat, each capable of carrying from 20 to 30 persons. The ferry-boat would carry two teams with their horses. All these were rendered entirely useless. The sloop was burned.
A small canoe enabled me to send Lieutenant Balder and 6 men, who succeeded in arresting Dr. Wormley. I sent him immediately to the provost-marshal-general by Lieutenant Balder, who was directed also to report in person at headquarters the result of the expedition, as I was delayed several hours in destroying the boats. These boats were about a mile above New Castle by the road, on Dr. Wormley’s farm, and were concealed, as the entrance of the creek was hidden by the foliage of newly-felled trees. The river was flooded and still rising to-day, and troops could not be crossed without fixing a line.

I could collect no satisfactory information that a force was organizing or existed on the north side of the river, as I supposed in my instructions. Having complied with my instructions I returned to camp with my command this afternoon.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
AUGUST V. KAUTZ,
Captain, Sixth Cavalry, Commanding Expedition.

Lieut. J. C. Audenried,
Sixth Cavalry, Acting Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Brigade."

And the entry from his journal for the same period:

“June 2. --- The morning was spent in camp. After dinner an order came for me to take my squadron and two squadrons of lancers and proceed to the Pamunkey River and burn the ferries and destroy all communications across the Pamunkey above Pipingtree to Doctor Wormley’s Ferry, to arrest Doctor Wormley and to ascertain all I could about a force organizing in King William County. The ferry’s having already been destroyed or removed, I could do nothing this evening except to camp. I sent one squadron to Pipingtree to ascertain if the ferry was destroyed. We ordered supper with Mr. Patterson, the overseer, and I devoted myself to hunting up information for the work to-morrow. Through Dennis, Captain Savage’s servant, I learned all that is necessary for tomorrow.

"June 3. --- It rained very hard last night, and I was driven to take shelter under the porch of the overseer’s house. I sent the other squadron of Lancers down to Bassett’s Ferry to see if it could be used, whilst I took a contraband and proceeded to Doctor Wormley’s Ferry, with my squadron. We sent a man across the stream, where he found a canoe in which Lieutenant Balder crossed with five or six men and proceeded to arrest Doctor Wormley, whilst we proceeded to destroy the ferry boat and a sloop of twenty-five tons, the Golden Gate of Norfolk and eight yawl boats and one metallic life boat, which we found concealed in the mouth of little creek near by. The doctor was very violent. I sent him to the Provost Marshal General and returned to camp with my command and wrote my report. More rain….”

In this case, it appears the two accounts are very close. The only differences, that Captain Savage’s servant actually obtained the information and a trooper had to swim the Pamunkey to get the canoe, are pretty minor.

Sources:
Official Records, Series I, Volume 11, Part I, pages 997-998.

Supplement to the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, Volume 2, page 123.

Bates Letters - May 31, 1863

2008-05-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

Note: Charlie's letters get pretty infrequent for the rest of the year, so they'll be posted in the near future instead of on the appropriate days. In this missive, we learn of the regiment's strength as campaigning begins, an interesting packing list, and fish habits near rebel prisons. I haven't had any luck with the locations that he mentions as yet, they should be somewhere near his home in Connecticut.

Murfreesboro, May 31st, 1863

Dear Parents,

I have been waiting to hear from you the last week but not a word, not a line, not a syllable has come from you. And I should perhaps have thought you all had got Conscripted if I had not got a letter from Julia today with the news that you were still in Status quo (There’s latin for you). I don’t wonder at not hearing from Johnson if he is as near gone as Julia represents, for she gives a woeful account of his doings with the gals, and from her writing I judge he will soon be labeled as “Benedict the married man.” Well poor fellow I pity him. I suppose he does nothing but sit in the moonlight and dream of his simmatora, his board must prove a good speculation for you, if he lives on moonlight and poetry after the fashion of young fellows in love. If you haven’t plenty of moonlight down there, send your patient down here to pasture. The moon is shining almost as bright as day now, and almost makes me ready to fall in love, the only obstacle is, the absence of any fair being to waste my affections and romance upon, ---

I expect to start (I speak for the army) I expect to start on a campaign to-morrow and the Lord only knows when it will be terminated, you need not be frightened if you don’t hear from me for the next two weeks, as I shall not have a chance to write while out on the war path. The men are only allowed to take a change of under-clothes with them, and so I shall have no letter stock along. If we get back safe however, and I have no doubt of it but we shall, you may expect to hear of something to our advantage; The fourth cavalry is only three hundred strong in the field but every man is in the Davy Crockett style, and they will do something if they get a chance.

Our regiment is as well known in the southern army , as the old sand peddler who used to drive an ox was to the denizens of Woodbury, Cat-swamp and Weekeepeemee. I have not had the satisfaction of painting my sword with southern blood yet, onlys a pig which I transfixed at franklin was a southern, so I am a little anxious to get into a fight.

I had an awful pain in my right shoulder last night, but the Doctor painted it with iodine (my shoulder, not the pain he painted) and now it’s among the things that were. The Doctor said ‘twas a sort of wet rheumatism brought on by the rain of the last two days. He has however “warranted me for one year without repairing.” I am sorry to leave this camp and yet I am glad to go, sorry because I leave all the nice mulberries and strawberries behind, glad because the flies will a good share of them be left with the berries, and besides I want to see more of the country. I have no desire of pushing my researches quite as far as one of our Regiment did who got back to us today. He was taken prisoner last December and has been in the Confed’s prisons since. He tells pretty much the same story as all returned men about times in Dixie. He says while confined at Jackson they managed to procure a fish hook and line, and commenced to indulge in visions of fries, roasts, and stews, to accrue from their labors in the pisctory profession, but on trial found the fish would not bite; the evidently smelled the Yankee, and kept shy. I have to make up for the sleep lost last night by the shoulder and as its after Tattoo

Goodbye
My love to all
Charles E. Bates

Johnson may have use for some poetry in his wooing allow me to recommend the following to his notice

The Devil thought to injure me
By cutting down my apple tree
But he did not injure me at all
For I had apples all the fall