Annals of Iowa
Volume 1, No. 2 April 1893
8
THE TWENTY-FOURTH IOWA VOLUNTEERS.
FROM MUSCATINE TO WINCHESTER.
BY THAD. L SMITH.
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   NOTE.—The following history of the 24th Iowa Infantry was written by Mr. Smith, a
private, while in the service, before the close of the war, beginning with the organization of the
regiment, and closing September 1, 1864. It was Mr. Smith's intention to complete it after the
close of the war, but sickness delayed the work, and death came before he was able to finish it.
We are indebted to John S. Ring for the copy, which is now for the first time published, after a
lapse of more than twenty-eight years since it was written. Mr. Ring has preserved this most
interesting paper all these years, having copied it into the regimental, record book, and now
hands it over to the Historical Department.
   Soon after the proclamation of the President in July, 1862, calling for three hundred thousand
additional troops, Eber C. Byam, of Mount Vernon, Linn county, obtained a commission as
colonel to raise a regiment to be called the “Iowa Temperance Regiment.” Accordingly, circulars
were issued and distributed through counties adjoining Linn, announcing the name and character
of the regiment. Parents who had thus far withheld their consent to the request of sons who
wished to assist in defending the safeguard and palladium of their liberties, more through fear of
vices and temptations of camp life than of the enemy's missiles, now gave them the parting
blessing and bade them go forth with the Temperance Band. By the middle of August more than
double the required number of companies were reported as full, organized and ready to march to
the appointed rendezvous. Out of those reported as ready, the following were chosen: three from
Linn county (F, G, and H), under Captains Dimmitt, Vinson and Carbee; two from Cedar county
(B and C), under Captains Rathbun and Johnson; one from Johnson county, Company D, under
Captain Casebeer; one from Tama, Company E, under Captain Clark; two from Jackson county,
A and I, under Captains Henderson and Martin, and one from Jones county, K, under Captain
Williams. Those thus selected were ordered to report at the place of rendezvous, Muscatine, on
the 1st of September. After medical inspection and the discharge of all not able bodied, many of
the companies were still full to overflowing. Those companies having more than the requisite
number were compelled to transfer to our neighbors of the 35th Iowa.
   Camp Strong is situated about one and a half miles southwest from Muscatine. New barracks
had been constructed for our reception. They formed two sides of a square by connecting with
those prepared for the 35th Iowa, forming a right angle triangle fronting on a level green parade
ground. In the center a pole had been erected for the purpose of floating the stars and stripes, and
afterwards used also as the center of a circle about which refractory soldiers were made to
revolve. At the foot of the pole a very diminutive piece of artillery announced the ascent of the
stars and stripes at sunrise, and their descent at sunset.
   The organization of the regiment was effected on the 13th of September, and it was mustered
into the United States service on the 18th of the same month, by Captain H. B. Hendershott, of
the 1st U. S. Artillery. The organization when effected was as follows:
   The time here was spent in drilling, parades, etc., preparatory to taking the field. Our camp
was carefully guarded by soldiers armed with wooden swords at first. The lines were as regularly
visited each night by the officer of the day as though an enemy were at hand, and liable at any
moment to pounce upon us. Many were the amusing scenes that occurred during these
excursions, while teaching the soldier the important duties of the sentinel, the instructors and
soldiers being alike novices in the art.
   During this period many took advantage of the weakness of the mode of opposing them and
escaped the restrictions of the camp by breaking guard, but none for any other purpose than that
of an hour's pleasure in the city—whence they returned as they came, sometimes pursued to their
bunks by the corporal of the guard.
   Thus the regiment paraded and drilled with wooden swords and guns until the middle of
October, when it was armed with new Enfield rifles. During our stay here the citizens of
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Muscatine ministered in various ways to our physical wants. Our patients in the hospital
received every attention from the kind and hospitable ladies of that place that could be expected.
Our neighbors of the 35th joined us in all our sports, which were generally of manly character
and tended to strengthen our muscles for the endurance of hardships soon to come. The water at
this camp was extremely bad. It must have been an oversight on the part of those selecting the
site of the camp! A species of quicksand mingled with it and was productive of much sickness,
principally that scourge of all new soldiers, diarrhea. But the most fatal scourge of our camp
here was measles. Had the small-pox visited the regiment it could hardly have been more
destructive in its effects. In some of the companies nearly one-fourth were suffering from it at
the same time. Its severity made many who were spectators to the scene rejoice that they had
passed through that ordeal in childhood's years; still those that had it bore it cheerfully, and
thought they would soon be well again. But in this hope we were all disappointed. Could they
have received the careful nursing of home, they might have recovered entirely. Not so, however,
with the great majority of those taking the chance nursing of the camp.
   There were about fifty cases in all. More than forty of that number either died of diseases
having their origin in the measles or were soon afterwards discharged for disability. But seven so
far recovered as to be of further benefit to the service. There were a few cases of typhus fever at
this camp, two of which proved fatal. Marching orders were received about the 19th of October
and the regiment embarked on the following morning, Oct. 20th, for St. Louis, expecting to be
landed there; but sad was the disappointment experienced by all when orders came to report
forthwith to the general commanding at Helena, Ark. The six left companies were immediately
transferred to the steamer Empress, and placed under command of Lieut. Col. J. Q. Wilds. The
remaining four companies, under command of Major Ed Wright, were embarked on board of the
steamer Imperial. They were joined by the 26th Iowa on the next morning. The steamer, packed
with about 1,200 troops, departed for Helena. Snow had fallen during the night and the morning
was very cold. The steamer, though one of the largest, was packed above and below and on
every side. This was the introductory step of the regiment to the hardships of the soldier's life.
   The entire command disembarked at Helena October 28th, and encamped about one mile south
of town on the river bank. The army which had come through from Batesville with Gen. Curtis
was then there. They had constructed winter quarters, upon which business the “forty dollar
men,” as they termed us, immediately embarked. The regiment was assigned to the brigade
commanded by Gen. McGinnis, then Colonel of the 11th Indiana. The regiment was now about
950 strong, including officers and men. The health of the men was good when they first arrived,
but their late exposure on the steamer, and the effect of the water from the river and the malaria
arising from a cypress swamp about a mile in the rear of the camp, soon swelled the sick list to
more than a hundred. Whether these evils could have been avoided at that time or not it is
useless to inquire. The operations then pending against Vicksburg, via Holly Springs, doubtless
rendered the concentration of all the available forces within reach necessary. Helena was
probably the best objective point, for any forces not connected with those under the immediate
command of Major General Grant. On the 17th of November an expedition was sent out under
command of Brig. Gen. A. P. Hovey, of which the 24th Iowa formed a part. After being out
three days and going to the mouth of White River, it returned without having been disembarked
or having seen the enemy. Another expedition left Helena on the 28th of November under
command of Gen. Hovey for Cold Water, Miss., where they arrived the 30th of November. Cold
Water is about forty miles from Delta, the point of landing on the Mississippi river. In this march
the regiment received its first experience of that nature. Although the knapsacks proved to be a
very inconvenient and troublesome method of transportation, they kept pace with the western
troops without much difficulty. The force at Cold Water was intended to check the retreating
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force of the enemy until General Grant could come up and "bag" them, or at least cut them off
from Vicksburg. One brigade remained here, while another with a small force of cavalry
advanced to Oakland, about 20 miles further. On the afternoon of the 1st of December cannon
were heard in the direction of Oakland—the first sound of hostile greeting between foemen that
had yet reached the ears of the 24th. The troops were immediately ordered into line and started
on the double-quick to the scene of action.
   Crossing the Tallahachie, a few hundred yards below the mouth of Cold Water, on a pontoon
bridge, all were rapidly hurried to the front. After advancing about seven miles, a messenger
arrived from the front announcing the discomfiture of the enemy, and capture of 40 prisoners.
The advancing column immediately about-faced and returned to their former camp through a
drenching rain. Thus terminated the first prospect of the 24th to participate in an engagement
with the enemy. Being joined by the comrades from Oakland, the expedition returned to Helena,
where it arrived the 7th of December. Another expedition was next fitted out under command of
General Gorman, an energetic, violent officer, who could not spurn the rich offerings of King
Cotton, on account of which innocent weakness he subsequently received a polite dismissal from
the service, by being kindly advised to resign. This expedition was intended to co-operate with a
force under General Sherman which had previously gone up the Arkansas River. The fleet sailed
for the mouth of White River on the morning of January 11th, 1863. News of the reduction of
Arkansas lost by the forces of Sherman was received on the following day while near the mouth
of White River. It then advanced to Duvall's Bluffs, arriving the 16th and expecting to move
thence upon Little Rock, Arkansas; but after having reconnoitered and waited for three days, the
expedition for some reason was abandonded, and we set sail on the 19th for Helena.
   The weather was unusually severe during the entire period for this climate, and much
suffering was experienced by the troops. The regiment could hardly have suffered more in loss
of men in an ordinary engagement than it did from the effects of this severe and unaccustomed
exposure to cold and rain. Many who had withstood all former changes and exposures
unscathed, fell under this. Immediately after arriving at Helena, January 22d, it became apparent
that a change of camp would be necessary in consequence of the rising waters of the river and
streams in the vicinity. The encampment was immediately transferred from the river bank to the
first line or hills in the rear of Fort Curtis. But although able to escape from the water, it was
impossible to escape from the mud which seemed unfathomable. It soon became necessary to
raise and pike the road leading to Helena, about one mile distant, from whence the supplies must
come. Helena itself soon became a semblance of Venice. Main street could be traveled only in
canoes. The citizens could get to market and visit their neighbors only in canoes. The Mississippi
poured its mighty flood in front of the town, while its back waters forced their way through its
streets and formed a broad expanse of water far away to either side. Much difficulty was
experienced in landing and securing the necessary government supplies. The spectacle presented
when these waters subsided may be better imagined than described. As soon as the streets
became navigable for six-mule army wagons, they were called into requisition. The wet ground
soon became an impassable slough. Boards were stuck into the ground all over the place with the
warning motto of “No Bottom” painted on them. The sick list, which had been fearfully large
ever since the arrival of the regiment, was swelling to still greater proportions.
   The average of fatality was not less than one per day in our regiment alone, while the hills
rising high in our rear were being rapidly dotted over with new-made graves from those around
us. This was to us the darkest period in the history of our military experience. Numbers were
dropping into their last long sleep, not upon fields hallowed by the victors' blood shed in defense
of our country's honor, but by the slow and certain power of disease.
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   The skill of the surgeons, although unremitting in the discharge of their laborious duties,
seemed almost powerless. Chronic diarrhea and camp fever (an admixture of all fevers) bore
away many of the strongest men. Soon after our arrival in the new camp the 24th was transferred
to the brigade then commanded by Gen. Fisk. He was a man of medium height, fine form and
noble bearing. A countenance at once frank, benevolent and intellectual, having upon it the
stamp of thought and decision. He soon became very popular in consequence of his well-known
moral character, and his constant interest in the welfare of those under his command. Under his
immediate command the regiment departed with the expedition fitted out by Gen. Washburne for
opening the Yazoo Pass. It left Helena on the 15th of February and arrived in the Pass on the
following day. Here they were engaged until the 23d in endeavoring to render it navigable. A
vast amount of labor was necessary for the removal of trees which the enemy had fallen across
the narrow stream for the purpose of obstructing the passage of vessels. Ropes were fastened
around the bodies of the trees and they were thus drawn out upon the main land. From thence the
boats passed into the Cold Water and Tallahachie, the way being thus opened to the Yazoo
River. Having effected its purpose, the expedition returned to Helena on the 23d. The fleet had
been dreadfully shattered in the Pass. The guards, wheel-houses and smoke-stacks of the
steamers had been wholly raked off of most of the fleet by the overhanging branches of the trees.
There were none of the fleet that escaped uninjured.
   Spring now began to make its appearance and the waters to recede from the streets of Helena.
About this time Luke Baldwin, R. Q. M. of the regiment, fell very ill with dysentery. Despite the
utmost care under the circumstances, and the best skill of our surgeons, he rapidly declined, and
died on the first of March. He was the first officer of the regiment called upon to seal his
devotion to our common cause with his life. He was eminently fitted for the position he had
occupied. He had always been careful, skillful and honest in the discharge of his duties toward
the government and his regiment. In addition to his business qualities, being of a cheerful
disposition, quiet and gentlemanly in his manner, his sudden and unexpected death was a matter
of sincere and earnest regret among his brother officers of the regiment.
Albert B. Echleman, the Q. M. Sergeant, who had been his faithful and unremitting assistant,
was promoted to the vacancy occasioned by his death.
   Drilling, which had been abandoned in consequence of the severity of the weather for some
months, was again resumed with renewed diligence. The regiment rapidly acquired a perfection
in this under the skillful and experienced instructions of Lieut. Col. J. Q. Wilds, which on several
occasions of general reviews elicited the warm commendation of Generals Gorman and Fiske.
The pride taken by all in keeping their arms in excellent condition contributed greatly to its
appearance, and its estimation with those inspecting it. Meanwhile preparations were being made
for opening the spring campaign. A thorough organization of the troops at Helena was effected
about the first of April. The 24th was transferred to the second brigade of the 12th division, 13th
Army Corps, under command of General J. A. McClernand. The 12th division was placed under
command of Brigadier General A. P. Hovey, while Colonel J. R. Slack, of the 47th Indiana,
commanded the second brigade, composed of the 47th Indiana, the 56th Ohio, and the 28th and
24th Iowa regiments. All hailed the hour of our approaching departure with joy.
Vicksburg was known to be the point of attack, but how or where no one was able to
discover. The sufferings which all had experienced from the unhealthiness of the climate at
Helena invested the final day of departure with a deep and solemn interest.
   There were none who had not a brother or favorite comrade sleeping the sleep that knows no
waking on the bluffs above us or in the vale by the river bank below. During the three months of
January, February and March alone, fifty of our comrades were interred at Helena, besides a
great number that were sent to the hospitals at Cario, Memphis and St. Louis. When the fleet was
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ready to sail from Helena on the morning of April 11, 1863, the regiment could muster but little
more than six hundred rank and file. The fleet joined that of General Quimby on the next day
about five miles below Helena. There was great difficulty in obtaining serviceable vessels to
convey the troops. Four companies under command of Capt. Henderson, of Company A, were
put on board of a vessel which had had its smokestacks, wheelhouses and guards raked off in the
Pass. The pilot declared the craft unsafe and refused to go with her.
   After having been delayed several hours after the departure of the fleet, it was determined to
man the boat from the troops on board. Accordingly Willis Vance, a private of Company G,
volunteered as pilot, and the boat joined us on the morning of the 14th, having made the trip as
soon as any of the fleet. We reached Milliken's bend on the morning of the 14th of April, without
any misadventures. Here the troops all disembarked and went into camp. Preparations were
immediately begun for marching. All surplus baggage was stored in an old barge—the only
means at hand of disposing of it. The column moved out on the morning of the 16th, and reached
Richmond, a small inland town, early in the afternoon of the same day. The march was again
resumed on the next day. The column advanced slowly in consequence of the heavy roads
impeding the progress of the train. The country through which we were now passing is one of
the richest and most valuable in Louisiana. An annual overflow by the waters of the Mississippi
was prevented only by a succession of levees. We reached Smith Plantation, on Vidal Bayou, on
the afternoon of the 17th. Up to this time the divisions of Osterhaus and Carr were in our
advance.
   The original intention to move to Carthage was changed at this time by reason of several
breaks in the levee along Bayou Vidal, which placed Carthage on an island. On the morning of
the 20th, our division (General Hovey's) took the lead. We arrived at Nolan's Plantation on the
22d. Cavalry swam the bayou in the morning to reconnoiter the country, and beyond a bridge
was immediately commenced. Timber for its construction was obtained from a cotton gin on the
plantation, and such other buildings as were at hand.
   All the force that could be used was called into requisition. The bayou was very wide at this
point, but less rapid than anywhere else. Parties were dispatched in all directions to procure boats
and material upon which to build a floating bridge. These were securely fastened by a network of
ropes to the trees standing in the stream, and arranged in the form of an arc with the
circumference up stream. Upon this the bridge was built, which when completed measured
between five and six hundred feet in length. The train and artillery were all drawn over by hand.
The project, as well as the route, being one of our General's own choice, the troops labored
assiduously to accomplish the undertaking, while the General himself hurried up the work, being
almost constantly present, as though nothing less than the capture of Vicksburg depended upon
the speedy success of his project.
   Our division succeeded in getting over, and encamped about four or five miles beyond the
bridge on the evening of the 27th. Next day we moved to Perkins' Landing, and immediately
embarked on board the steamers which had a few days previously run the blockade at Vicksburg.
Each steamer had a barge or two in tow, which were also loaded with troops. All transportation,
horses of field and staff officers, etc., were left behind. Our destination was Grand Gulf. The
gunboats moved out in advance, followed by our little fleet of steamers and barges. We reached
a point within four miles of the batteries at Grand Gulf on the morning of the 28th. The gun
boats were to engage and silence the batteries on shore, and we were then to land under cover of
their fire, and carry the place by assault. It was a clear, bright day, and the enemy's works were
clearly visible from where we lay. The gunboats formed in line of battle, and dropped down
slowly and cautiously upon the enemy's works. The enemy was the first to open the ball. One,
two, three, four wreaths of smoke, and as many bright jets of water sprang into the air. Still the
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sullen turtles deigned no reply, as the enemy's missiles failed to reach their advance. Another roll
of thunder, more bright jets of water start up. This time discloses the approaching foe, yet still
they were silent. But now the leading vessel began to leave the west bank of the river, bearing
off to the left of their works, followed by the others. Having formed a line immediately in front
and to the right and left of their works, they squared across the mighty current, and then came
the loud response to the enemy's taunts.
   The compliments of the Admiral and his men having thus been presented to the enemy, the
vessels separated and each began the battle on its own account. Some running directly under the
guns of the fort and delivering their heavy broadsides at pistol range, others with guns of heavy
calibre anchored out in the river, as if for target practice, settled themselves quietly to the work.
The air seemed alive with a thousand devils, screeching, howling and hissing, while the roar of
discharging cannon and bursting shells was loud and incessant. Through the black clouds of
smoke lifting from the scene of the battle could be seen the meteoric pathway of fuse shells,
which either bounded harmlessly from the iron mail of the turtles or went skipping over the
smooth waters miles away from their intended object. An occasional discharge of grape shot
would make the water boil around the approaching vessels.
   Meanwhile parties were detailed on board our vessels and sent to the holds with tow and
cotton, and carpenter's tools were in readiness to stop any unlucky perforation of the enemy's
balls in that region when it should come our turn to meet their fire. Guns were all loaded and
officers and men at their posts, in momentary readiness for an order to advance. The steamers
stood out in the middle of the river, slowly paddling the water to prevent their floating too near
the scene of action for safety before the gunboats had accomplished their mission. We could see
there was great danger to be encountered in getting there, but knowing something of the
indomitable will and perseverance of our leader, we did not doubt for a moment but that it would
be done. It were needless then to be fearful of consequences, and each braced himself with a
determination, to do his best, for in speedy victory alone there appeared safety. For four hours
the battle had raged and the enemy's position had been raked from every quarter. Still the saucy
guns from the fort belched forth their fire and smoke and storms of missiles. They could not be
silenced. The brave tars had done all in their power to accomplish the purpose. Meanwhile our
interest had become so great as to forget all else around us. The steamers drew up to the landing
at Hard Times, which had the appearance of having maintained a very poor family in a very poor
way, and much to our surprise we were ordered to disembark. After marching down the levee
about three miles we encamped for the night on the river. We were now very unexpectedly
several miles below Grand Gulf. So sharp was the bend of the river to the right of Grand Gulf
that we could not perceive its direction during the day. We then for the first time comprehended
the full strength of the position chosen by the enemy. Soon after darkness set in, the gunboats
again opened vigorously upon the enemy. The enemy replied slowly but determinedly. The
transports, which had already run the blockade at Vicksburg without serious injury, now under
cover of their fire sped rapidly by the rebel fort, followed by the fleet of ironclads. The bold
adventure was as speedily and successfully accomplished as it had been planned, without further
injury than the killing of a few battery horses on board the transports and cutting the hog chain
of one of the rams. The return of daylight revealed the entire fleet anchored near the
encampment.
   The divisions of Carr and Osterhaus and Hovey embarked on board the transports and
gunboats, landing at Bruinsburg, about 12 miles below, about noon. Here three days' rations of
hard bread, sugar, coffee and salt, were issued as quickly as they could be landed from the
vessels, and at 4 o'clock P. M. the column was en route for the rear of Grand Gulf. About 9
o'clock the column, having reached the highlands of Mississippi, were halted for supper. An
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hour later, it was again in motion. The divisions of Carr and Osterhaus were in advance,
followed closely by that of Hovey. Not knowing at what point to expect the enemy, the advance
moved forward cautiously and slowly. Every soldier has cause to remember that this feeling for
the enemy in the dark is by far the most laborious and fatiguing duty that can be imposed on an
army. It is a movement that requires constant readiness and cautious dealing, while the drowsy
powers are busy in their efforts to weigh down the eyelids during the intervals of its many halts.
   Occasional shots far in advance will create murmurs among the massed hosts in the rear
like that of a dreamer disturbed by familiar sounds in his slumbers. By daylight the skirmishing
in front had become quite brisk, announcing the presence of the enemy in force. Halting at the
foot of Thompson's Hill, the troops were rapidly preparing their breakfast. The General, riding
along the line, put a sudden stop to these operations by orders to fall in immediately. Cannon
were booming on the hill, the divisions of Osterhaus and Carr being already partially engaged.
The column moved rapidly up the hill, and were immediately formed in two lines of battle on
the right of Magnolia Church, the first brigade, under command of Gen. McGinnis, in advance.
Although within rifle range of the enemy's position; the thick foliage and dense undergrowth
completely hid his lines. The country was exceedingly broken, there being a continuous
succession of knobs and precipitate hillsides, while almost impenetrable canebrakes choked up
the deep, narrow ravine. An effort to turn the enemy's right resting on Bayou Pierre had failed,
and by means of posting small bodies of men on the knobs he was enabled to develop a long
line to the left. From these knobs then he must be driven. Small parties of skirmishers were
now sent out to discover his position and practicable routes leading to it on our right, while our
left held the enemy in check, preventing any effort that might be made to assail and turn it. By
this means the several knobs were successfully charged, and the enemy's left made to retire.
The enemy stubbornly resisted every advance, and would abandon his position only when
forced to. To the regiment or brigade nearest the most practicable route would be assigned the
duty of charging the enemy from his position. During the day there was considerable strife
among field and staff officers as to which regiments or brigades should have the honor of
assailing the enemy's positions when more than were required were at hand. An amusing
incident of this nature occurred about 8 o'clock A. M. The line in struggling forward through a
canebrake had become much confused and broken up, the men of the 28th and 24th Iowa
regiments becoming mingled.
   Lieut. Col. Wilds, presuming Col. Byam to be at the center of the regiment and regulating the
line there, mistook the colors of the 28th Iowa for our own and followed them with the four right
companies. But it was afterwards ascertained that Col. Byam had left the field, having become
sick and faint, and much to his own injury had failed to have the fact reported to Col. Wild, upon
whom the command now devolved. Major Wright on the left, with the colors and the six
remaining companies, bore to the left in order to pass around the canebrake, thus dividing the
regiment. A similar accident happened to the 34th Indiana, of the first brigade.
   The six companies under Major Wright and five companies of the 34th Indiana arrived first
in an open space beyond the canebrakes.
   Here General Hovey ordered Col. Cameron of the 34th Indiana to charge a battery which
the enemy had planted on the crest of the hill. Col. Cameron remarked that there were but five
companies present, but that he would charge it if the General so ordered.
   Col. Slack, commanding our brigade, proposed uniting the two parts of regiments. To this the
General objected, desiring that our regiment should do it. Col. Slack then eagerly responded:
"Then let the 24th Iowa go in. Six companies can do it. The Hawkeyes will do it." But the
General refused, and the remaining five companies of the 34th arriving soon after, the regiment
was ordered to advance to the charge. About this same time two regiments of Carr's division, the
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8th and 18th Indiana, charged the same point from another direction, the three regiments
carrying the point, and each claiming the honor of the victory. The battle continued in this way
until nearly nightfall, no regiment on either side being exposed to fire at any one time very long,
owing to the broken nature of the ground. At intervals a deep, sudden roll of musketry and
artillery, followed soon after by a shout of triumph, announced the capture of some advanced
position by our forces. Then a lull, during which the enemy took a new position, while our
artillery and infantry were advanced. One point after another was gained in this way on the right,
until the enemy began to entertain fears of being cut off from the Port Gibson road. The entire
right of this line had been forced back until it was nearly at right angles with the line on the left.
The retreat soon after began in good earnest. The victory was won. Several hundred prisoners,
part of his train and much of his artillery fell into our hands. The primary object of the battle was
accomplished. Grand Gulf was evacuated. The whole loss in the 24th Iowa was but one killed
and seven wounded. It was a hard battle, but bloody only at intervals. The difficulties of
approaching the enemy's several positions were almost insurmountable. The field upon which
the battle was fought is exceedingly picturesque and beautiful. The many knobs are crowned
with the most beautiful of all trees, the magnolia. Their rich, polished green leaves glisten
brightly in the sunshine, as if always bathed in dew, while their large, fine white flowers load the
air with sweet fragrance.
   This battle is memorable as the first in that brilliant series of conflicts resulting in the capture
of Vicksburg. As it was the first battle in which most of the troops enlisted in '62 had
participated, the Generals, whose reputation rested upon their success, preferred that the veteran
troops of '61 should lead the charges, supported by the less experienced in battle; a distinction,
however, that was never repeated. The courage displayed by them on this day, whenever
opportunity offered, convinced them that this distinction would hereafter be wholly unnecessary.
It is not necessary to criticize the conduct of Col. Byam in this engagement. It is, perhaps,
fair to presume that what he said of himself was true. He was sick and faint, or, as the boys
would have it, sun-struck at 8 o'clock in the morning, reporting at the hospital, two miles away,
for medical assistance. As for the rest, both officers and men conducted themselves with the
customary valor of Iowa's sons, receiving their just meed of praise in their brigade commander's
report of the engagement. Wearied almost to exhaustion by the day's labors, and suffering for
want of sleep, the men lay down on their arms, in support of a battery planted on a hill above us.
It not being certain that the enemy had gone, and fearing, too, lest he might be re-enforced
during the night, everything was in momentary readiness for an attack. All around was silent
until midnight, when the pickets in front were falsely alarmed by some means, and discharged
their pieces. A moment later and the line was in complete readiness to repel the advance of the
enemy, should he come. But the alarm proving to be a false one, we lay down again, and rested
without any further disturbance until daybreak. Learning soon afterwards that the enemy had
evacuated Grand Gulf, and were flying towards Vicksburg, we took up our line of march for Port
Gibson, about four miles distant, where we arrived about noon, and encamped in the streets. The
town is situated on Bayou Pierre. It is tastefully and regularly laid out, containing originally
perhaps four thousand inhabitants. It had no defenses, and our visit was evidently a very
unexpected, as well as unwelcome event. It had never been occupied by any troops of either
army before, and had a neat, cleanly appearance. Preparations were being made for a grand ball
to come off the evening of the 2d, in honor of the victory gained over our fleet at Grand Gulf,
but alas! the intended guests, such as had passed unscathed the ordeal of battle on the previous
day, were tripping the "light fantastic toe" towards some distant point of safety from the "Yankee
vandals." A vast amount of provender had been prepared for the anticipated regalement, much of
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which had been distributed among the forlorn guests' as they hurried through the town. The
remainder was claimed as the spoils of battle and was appropriated without further ceremony.
   We crossed Bayou Pierre, on the 3d, on a floating bridge, and marched to Willow Springs.
Here the column was halted for three days to await the arrival of the 15th and 17th Army Corps.
Foraging parties were sent out to procure supplies. There being no transportation with us, and all
private horses being left behind, the parties were instructed to forage teams and horses for
mounted officers, which was accordingly done. All the mills in the vicinity were immediately set
in motion. By this means a sufficient supply of meal was obtained. There were plenty of cattle in
the country for beef, and the smoke-houses were full of pork. Bacon, salt, sugar and molasses
were abundant, besides an abundance of poultry and many other luxuries not known in the
government ration.
   Foraging parties usually returned to camp mounted on mules or horses, or in fine carriages,
to which were hitched horses or mules, or one of each as circumstances favored, set off with
plow-harness or silver-mounted harness, again governed by circumstance. The riders sat in the
midst of a heap of poultry and sacks of provender, while the elegant vehicles were freighted with
all kinds of delicacies. Where the people remained at home private property was seldom
disturbed, but the greater portion of the planters having hastily abandoned their homes, thus
furnishing direct proof of disloyalty, everything valuable or sweet to the taste was forthwith
appropriated. No dwelling, however, was burned during this march, nor cotton destroyed. Forage
of all kinds was found in abundance, and the army fared sumptuously. It was a wealthy
cotton-growing region, and the accumulation of a two or three years' crop had piled their cotton
sheds full of that coveted article.
   On many plantations from one to three hundred bales were thus stowed away in complete
readiness for market. None of this was disturbed by the passing troops. The dwellings of the
planters were large-sized, airy mansions surrounded by magnificent flower gardens and groves
of evergreens, in the latter of which flourished pines, cedars and magnolias, wreathed about with
tall thick rose hedges, which were just beginning to bloom. The dwellers in these Arcadian
abodes, when found at home, seemed to possess all the pride and culture usual among the
Southern aristocracy, and presided over their dusky harems with much the same dignity that
would become a Turkish prince. In most cases they were masters of the situation, and although
evincing much chagrin at our unwelcome visits, from motives of policy usually treated us with a
gentlemanly dignity becoming their station. The women were less guarded in their manners and
language, and frequently treated us to a torrent of abuse, unequaled since the days of
Shakespeare's Queen Margaret of Lancaster. A hearty laugh was the usual response to these
tragic outbreaks of indignation, but they seldom had the effect of preventing the capture of
favorite carriage horses, and the driving away of live stock. About this time an important capture
was effected by Captain Smith, of Company G, while in charge of a foraging party. The party
came to the abode of a wealthy planter, who had departed with all else valuable, except a
favorite carriage horse, left for the use and in charge of his wife. Without provocation, the good
lady began reviling the captain and his band before any seizures were made. Accidentally
coming upon the horse, one of the band concluded it would be easier riding than walking into
camp, and having the means at hand, made preparations accordingly. The vigilant keeper
objected seriously, by intermingling passionate entreaty with the most bitter invectives. But plea,
however eloquent, was of no avail, and the animal sacred to the household was ridden off in
triumph. He was immediately purchased from the Government by Col. Wilds, and has ever since
been a faithful and constant member of the regiment. He passed through all the battles up to
Cedar Creek unscathed. Here he was seriously wounded, at the same time with his master.
Having conceived a strong affection for Brownie, a mare brought into the service by Major
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Wright, he was immediately purchased by him after the death of his lamented master, and having
recovered from his wound, although deprived of the use of his caudal extremity in consequence
thereof, is still performing duty in the regiment. There its something remarkable in the fact that
although these parties, during the entire campaign, were constantly wandering away from camp,
and scouring the country for a distance of 7 or 8 miles from its limits, they were never attacked
or in any way disturbed. We broke camp on the morning of the 6th and reached Rocky Springs
early in the same day, a very small village, having originally but one trading store and few
dwellings. Here about one and one-half days' rations were issued, the first that had been received
by the command since leaving Bruinsburg. Next day we were advanced about three miles to a
place called Big Sandy, and took position in readiness for an attack, which it was rumored would
soon be made. Next day the troops were reviewed by Gen. Grant in person. A few more rations
were issued while at this point, the last we were to receive until after the capture of Haines'
Bluff. We remained here until the 10th, foraging as usual, and saving rations for a march by this
means.
   We moved near to a small town on the 10th, called Cayuga. Here we were joined by the
corps of McPherson and Sherman, which were formed on our right. The evening was clear,
pleasant and beautiful. Here for the first time was assembled the grand army.
Miles away to our right gleamed the bright camp-fires of more than 50,000 armed men, while
hill and dale rang with the inspiring chorus of national airs being discoursed by more than a
score of brass bands. How strong we felt! How unimportant we thought our enemy! We no
longer entertained any fears concerning the result.
   We moved out again on the morning of the 12th, encountering the advance cavalry of the
enemy's forces at Fourteen Mile creek.
   The columns were wheeled into line, skirmishers thrown out, and the advance began. An
open field intervened between the place at which the lines were formed and a narrow strip of
woods along the bank of the creek in which the enemy were posted. A sharp skirmish ensued,
when a charge was ordered. Without waiting to give or receive a volley, the enemy withdrew to
the opposite side of the creek. We encamped on the ground which the enemy had occupied and
halted for the night. Next morning we crossed the creek and discovered the enemy's pickets
about two and one-half miles beyond. Our division (Hovey's) formed in line of battle, and threw
out a skirmish line nearly two miles in length and drove in the enemy's pickets. The remainder of
the force withdrew in the direction of Raymond. Skirmishing continued until noon, at times very
severe, there being several wounded in the division. Meanwhile the Pioneer Corps were busily
engaged in cutting a road through the woods to the right. The whole force of the enemy,
probably 25,000 strong, were not more than two miles in advance of our line. Had they been
apprised of our position and number, they might very easily have captured, or at least utterly
routed, our little force of 4,000 men. About 1 o'clock an order was received to move out by the
right flank through the road cut out by the pioneers. When the column had gotten finely in
motion the long line of skirmishers was withdrawn, and followed quickly after. This feint which
resulted so successfully was made to prevent the enemy from sending reinforcements towards
Jackson, in which direction the columns of McPherson and Sherman were pressing. Marching
rapidly, we encamped about dark in a corn-field about seven or eight miles from where we had
been menacing the enemy. Scarcely had we broken ranks when a terrible rain-storm set in,
flooding the ground and drenching us completely. We had no reason to complain of the lack of
softness in our beds that night. The wet and newly ploughed ground yielded to the pressure of
tired limbs rather more readily than was desirable. Still there was no help for it, and each
comprehending the necessity submitted to the soft embrace of his muddy couch without a
murmur. Resuming the march on the following morning, we reached Raymond about noon of
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the same day. Halting about an hour, we had time to inspect the battle field of the 12th, where a
portion of our forces under McPherson had routed two brigades of the enemy under Generals
Gregg and Walker. We there saw the prisoners captured by General McPherson. The citizens
here talked ominously of an overpowering force which the enemy would hurl against us if we
advanced any nearer their stronghold, Vicksburg. By the aid of this force they expected Divine
Providence would utterly destroy and annihilate General Grant and his army. They seemed
anxious to prevent so great a disaster, and kindly advised us to be warned and retire in time.
   Raymond was something smaller and less neatly built than Port Gibson. Having been occupied
by Confederate troops for some time previous, it had that untidy appearance which the
occupation of a small place always presents. It was defended by a single line of rifle pits from
which the enemy were dislodged on the 12th, with considerable difficulty. Taking the road
leading to Clinton from this place, the column moved out four or five miles and encamped for
the night. During this march another Mississippi flood descended upon us. The roads were
flooded with water in some places for a distance of nearly half a mile, 10 to 12 inches in depth.
This time we encamped in the edge of the woods and had wet leaves for our beds. Here a
plentiful supply of beef, bacon and mutton was obtained, and also sweet potatoes, but no meal,
from the surrounding country. Advancing on the 14th to Clinton, a very scanty supply of meal
was obtained and issued. The negroes were able to furnish us with a very moderate supply of
corn bread as we marched along, and upon these we were mainly dependent for this very
essential article of subsistence until the opening of communication via Haines' Bluff. The
negroes everywhere exhibited the most extravagant joy upon our approach, and were ever ready
to impart all the information concerning the movements of the enemy that they possessed, and
the character of the country. Although instructed by their masters to flee to the woods when we
should approach, and told that they would be plundered and butchered by our soldiers, they, so
far from having any fear of us, hailed our coming as the certain dawn of the "year of jubilee."
They readily exchanged their cornbread for a little bacon from their masters' smokehouses,
which, although they had not dared to touch it themselves, they considered safe to take from us
in this way.
   Clinton is a small dilapidated village composed mainly of small wooden buildings, although
possessing a few elegant residences in its outer limits. The next morning our division was placed
in advance on the main road leading to Vicksburg. Skirmishers were kept well in advance of the
column and a few shots exchanged, the enemy's cavalry prowling in our front. Marching slowly,
we reached a point about one mile to the left of Bolton Station.
   During the day's march a tall Lieutenant of the regiment, in search of what he might find,
stumbled on what appeared to be an abandoned wagon-maker's shop, and finding it locked,
became convinced in his own mind that it must contain something very valuable. Calling for
some assistance from our passing column, a sturdy, raw-boned, two-hundred-pound Dutchman
volunteered his assistance. Having arranged that there should be an equal distribution of the
supposed spoils, they proceeded to break open the doors. The carefully concealed treasure
welcomed their entrance with a hoarse bray that seemed to awaken the echoes of the forest for
miles around. They brought forth their captured prey in triumph—an ass of ponderous
proportions, and declared by the lucky captors to be worth $2,000 anywhere on the continent but
in the particular vicinity of his seizure. A loud shout of laughter from the column was
immediately answered by a louder bray. What was to be done? He was too valuable to leave
behind, and it was determined the brawny Dutch man should lead him. Advancing to the head of
the column, the sequestered prize treated the field officers to a lengthened operatic flow of
original music, assisted by the jubilant Dutchman, the burden of whose song was " Wo," " Wo
dare" "Vat you means?" Half an hour of this was all the weak nerves of the Colonel could
endure, and declaring the seizure illegal, he ordered it to be taken to the rear and released,
charging the long Lieutenant with the execution of the order. (Conclusion in next number.)

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