The regiment remained at Lake Port until the 25th day of January. Their main assignment was to guard vessels traveling from Lake Port to different ports along the coast. William Fleming continued on his detail at headquarters at Lake Pontchartrain.
Sunday, December 25, 1864
The weather had turned colder and dry over the past few days. There was nothing special for dinner, just the same old army rations.
Tuesday, December 20, 1864
The regiment received news today about the consolidation with the 77th Illinois. The men assumed the consolidation would be happening soon. It didn't take place until January 26, 1865.
Saturday, December 17, 1864
The weather continued to be very pleasant and the mosquitoes were very numerous.
William Fleming noted that today he
William Fleming noted that today he
was detailed and reported to the Headquarters of the U S forces of Lake Ponchartrain for duty, I remained here receiving all the blessings that a soldier is entitled to untill the 30th day of Jan,
Friday, December 16, 1864
The beautiful weather continued today - warm and pleasant. The rumor in camp today is the 130th will soon be consolidated with the 77th Illinois.
Thursday, December 15, 1864
The weather began warming up a few days ago and today was a beautiful day. William Fleming returned from his detail today.
Monday, December 12 1864
It was very cold again today. The lake by their camp was frozen for 40 yards out from the shore.
Friday, December 9, 1864
The weather turned very cold and disagreeable. The men left in the camp couldn't do any work. However, the rumors in their camp were that they would soon be ordered to Brazas Santiago, Texas.
Thursday, December 8, 1864
The regiment received their quarter assignment today. The officers moved into a big building.
Tuesday, December 6, 1864
Today William Fleming was detailed to guard a ship. They left today and didn't return until the 15th of December, after stops at Ship Island, Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan.
Pictured below is the interior of the remains of Fort Morgan.
Pictured below is the interior of the remains of Fort Morgan.
Monday, December 5, 1864
Various details of the regiment were going out on steamships as guards. The regiment doesn't yet have any permanent quarters assigned to them.
Sunday, December 4, 1864
The regiment stayed in or near their quarters all day today. They received orders assigning the regiment to special duty here at Lake Port, guarding U.S. ships running to and from Fort Morgan and Pensacola Bay.
Saturday, December 3, 1864
It began raining this morning at daylight. The regiment sent an officer to New Orleans for orders. He returned about noon with orders to board the steamship Alabama. The regiment boarded at 1 o'clock and set sail for Lake Port located six miles north of New Orleans. They arrived there at 4 o'clock and unloaded off the steamship and went into camp for the night.
Friday, December 2, 1864
Today the regiment received orders at 2 o'clock. At about 4 o'clock they marched to Lake Enid, arriving about 7 o'clock. They camped there for the night, while waiting for a gulf steamer to take them to Lake Park.
Thursday, December 1, 1864
Captain Wilkins, William Fleming and the rest of the detail returned to the regiment today. According to William Fleming,
we had good luck and made an excellent trip and arrived at Orleans on the first day of Dec and rejoined our reg at camp paripet New Orleans
Tuesday, November 29, 1864
The men in camp received lumber today and made bunks. They also received a good supply of sanitary goods and began to get very comfortable in their new quarters.
Sunday, November 27, 1864
The men of the 130th Illinois Infantry stayed in camp all day in New Orleans. They now expect to spend the winter here.
Saturday, November 26, 1864
The men of the 130th now believe they will stay here for the winter and agree that it would be a nice place to stay.
Captain Wilkins, William Fleming and the rest of the detail got transportation aboard the steamer Sally Robinson and headed towards New Orleans.
Captain Wilkins, William Fleming and the rest of the detail got transportation aboard the steamer Sally Robinson and headed towards New Orleans.
Thursday, November 24, 1864
The regiment spent the night at the wharf aboard the Iberville. At 8 o'clock this morning they moved aboard the Alice Vivian with orders to report to the commanding offices at Carrolton. They arrived there at 4 o'clock, unloaded and went into camp. They had a nice brick building for their office and quarters.
Wednesday, November 23, 1864
They started south again about 2 o'clock this morning, heading for Morganza, Louisiana. They were moving very fast, as a rate of twenty miles per hour.
They arrived at Morganza at 7 o'clock this morning. They stopped to let the 67th Indiana off the boat. They started again at 9 o'clock and passed Port Hudson a little before noon. They passed Baton Rouge at 3 o'clock this afternoon and continued to on. The arrived at New Orleans at midnight.
Meanwhile Captain Wilkins and his detail made the return trip back down the White River. When they arrived at the mouth of the river they were surprised that their regiment had returned to New Orleans with out them. They found shelter in some vacated shanties.
They arrived at Morganza at 7 o'clock this morning. They stopped to let the 67th Indiana off the boat. They started again at 9 o'clock and passed Port Hudson a little before noon. They passed Baton Rouge at 3 o'clock this afternoon and continued to on. The arrived at New Orleans at midnight.
Meanwhile Captain Wilkins and his detail made the return trip back down the White River. When they arrived at the mouth of the river they were surprised that their regiment had returned to New Orleans with out them. They found shelter in some vacated shanties.
Tuesday, November 22, 1864
Aboard the Iberville, the men of the 130th arrived at Vicksburg at daylight. It was still very cold - the thermometer read 22 degrees below zero this morning. After loading coal, they left Vicksburg about 1 o'clock. They passed Grand Gulf about 5 o'clock and stopped at Natchez about 9 o'clock to take on coal.
Monday, November 21, 1864
The men of the 130th woke up at 3 o'clock this morning. It was very cold out. They boarded the Iberville about 10 o'clock and started for New Orleans about 1 o'clock. They made good time on the river.
Sunday, November 20, 1864
The 130th Illinois Infantry received orders today to be ready to embark this evening for New Orleans. The orders were later changed, with the new departure time of 6 o'clock tomorrow morning aboard the Iberville.
Captain Wilkins and his detail have not yet returned to camp, and will likely be left behind. They are still up the White River guarding a ship loaded with commissaries.
Captain Wilkins and his detail have not yet returned to camp, and will likely be left behind. They are still up the White River guarding a ship loaded with commissaries.
Friday, November 18, 1864
It rained all night and all day today. The men in camp noted the river rose fast - nearly 7 feet in just one day.
Wednesday, November 16, 1864
Talk in camp today included the rumor that there would soon be consolidation of regiments. This is because many of the regiments, including Illinois 130th, are short of there normal complement of men due to injuries, illness, and deaths.
Captain Wilkins took a detail out aboard the steamer Diadem. they went up the White River, bound for De Valls Bluff, Arkansas. William Fleming was a part of that detail.
The Diadem was a sternwheel riverboat built at Monongahela, Pennsylvania, in 1860. It was 154 feet long by 33 feet wide, with a 4.9 foot depth of hold. The wood hull was build for the Pittsburgh-St. Louis trade. It served as a U.S. Army transport during the Civil War, and then sank in ice at St. Louis on January 13, 1866.
Captain Wilkins took a detail out aboard the steamer Diadem. they went up the White River, bound for De Valls Bluff, Arkansas. William Fleming was a part of that detail.
The Diadem was a sternwheel riverboat built at Monongahela, Pennsylvania, in 1860. It was 154 feet long by 33 feet wide, with a 4.9 foot depth of hold. The wood hull was build for the Pittsburgh-St. Louis trade. It served as a U.S. Army transport during the Civil War, and then sank in ice at St. Louis on January 13, 1866.
Sunday, November 13, 1864
The men of the 130th continue to settle into what they believe will be their winter quarters.
Saturday, November 12, 1864
It was another beautiful day today. The men cleaned up their quarters and prepared for a general inspection. Some men went foraging and returned with plenty of lumber and supplies. Nearly all of the men have nice winter quarters and believe they will be at this place for the winter.
Friday, November 11, 1864
The weather today was very nice and the men used the opportunity to fortify their new home. Some added chimneys and floors to their tens.
Thursday, November 10, 1864
The men of the 130th moved over the road and into the camp of the 11th Illinois volunteers today. They now had log huts, which they believed would make good winter quarters.
Wednesday, November 9, 1864
The men of the 130th settled into their quarters today. They then received orders they would go into the camp of the 11th Illinois Volunteers tomorrow. The 11th had been ordered away.
Tuesday, November 8, 1864
The men of the 130th disembarked at noon today at the mouth of the White River on the Arkansas shore. General Shaler left them there and moved on up the river to Memphis.
The entire brigade went into camp here. It rained all afternoon, but everyone was all set up by midnight.
The entire brigade went into camp here. It rained all afternoon, but everyone was all set up by midnight.
Monday, November 7, 1864
At about 7 o'clock this morning the boats found the scouting party on the river. They picked them up and moved a mile or two up the river where they tied off and put out picket guards.
They stayed there until about noon, and then they started up the river again. They arrived at the mouth of the White River about 9 o'clock this evening. They stayed on board the board for the night.
They stayed there until about noon, and then they started up the river again. They arrived at the mouth of the White River about 9 o'clock this evening. They stayed on board the board for the night.
Sunday, November 6, 1864
The men of the 130th started at daylight this morning and steamed up the river until they came to Gaines Landing. They stopped there to reconnoiter. The 96th Ohio Volunteers and another regiment went out on the scouting expedition.
An orderly came back from the scouting expedition later in the day. He reported no Confederates were found. The boats moved on up the river to pick up the scouting party.
According to William Fleming, these expeditions were a regular occurrence over the past week.
An orderly came back from the scouting expedition later in the day. He reported no Confederates were found. The boats moved on up the river to pick up the scouting party.
According to William Fleming, these expeditions were a regular occurrence over the past week.
we would stop frequently an go out on scouts an forageing expeditions
Saturday, November 5, 1864
They started moving again about 7 o'clock this morning. They came upon the Jennie Rogers, with Major General Reynolds onboard. They stopped there about noon and stayed about an hour. They then continued up the river about 4 miles where they came upon some gunboats. They stopped there until about 5 o'clock and then started moving with a gunboat as an escort. They finally laid up for the night just after midnight at a point below Gaines Landing.
Friday, November 4, 1861
The boat started moving very early this morning and by daylight they arrived at Vicksburg. They stopped there to load coal.
Some of the men of the 130th probably thought back to the last time they were in Vicksburg, 16 months earlier, just after the long siege on the city.
They on the river again about 1 o'clock in the afternoon and tied up at dark at Island No. 98, five miles above Vicksburg. They had a pleasant weather for traveling.
Some of the men of the 130th probably thought back to the last time they were in Vicksburg, 16 months earlier, just after the long siege on the city.
They on the river again about 1 o'clock in the afternoon and tied up at dark at Island No. 98, five miles above Vicksburg. They had a pleasant weather for traveling.
Thursday, November 3, 1864
The transports started up the river again at daylight. They reached Grand Gulf about 3 o'clock in the afternoon. They stopped for the night about ten or fifteen miles below Vicksburg.
There was considerable excitement aboard the Thomas today. The boat struck a large tree that was snagged in the river. The men thought the boat was going to sink. Thinking they were going into the River, some of the men took off their boots, while others removed their coats and hats. But all was well and they were soon out of danger.
Sergeant John Murdoch died today in Greenville. He was from Greenville and assigned to Company F.
There was considerable excitement aboard the Thomas today. The boat struck a large tree that was snagged in the river. The men thought the boat was going to sink. Thinking they were going into the River, some of the men took off their boots, while others removed their coats and hats. But all was well and they were soon out of danger.
Sergeant John Murdoch died today in Greenville. He was from Greenville and assigned to Company F.
Wednesday, November 2, 1864
They started up the river again at daylight. They arrived at Natchez about 1 o'clock in the afternoon. They stayed there about half an hour before starting up the river again.
They anchored at dark about 15 or 20 miles above Natchez. It was also a foggy evening.
They anchored at dark about 15 or 20 miles above Natchez. It was also a foggy evening.
Tuesday, November 1, 1864
At daybreak the brigade consisting of the 130th Illinois, 83rd Ohio, 96th Ohio, 34th Indiana, and 67th Illinois boarded transports. They were under the command of General Shaler. The 130th boarded the steamer Thomas and began moving up the river at 10:00 am.
About 3 o'clock in the afternoon they passed the Red River. It also began to rain at that point.
The Thomas stopped at 7 o'clock on account of the wind and rain. They were about ten miles above the mouth of the Red River. The rain continued throughout the night.
About 3 o'clock in the afternoon they passed the Red River. It also began to rain at that point.
The Thomas stopped at 7 o'clock on account of the wind and rain. They were about ten miles above the mouth of the Red River. The rain continued throughout the night.
Monday, October 31, 1864
At 4 o'clock this afternoon the 130th Illinois Infantry received orders to be ready to embark with ten days rations at any moment. They didn't have much time to think about what was to come - at dark they received orders to board transports at daylight tomorrow morning. Needless to say, it was a busy evening for the men from Illinois.
Saturday, October 29, 1864
They started marching this morning at 5 o'clock and reached Morganza at 12:30 P.M. Everyone was safe and no one from the 130th was killed or wounded on this scouting mission. The men were all tired and worn out and very happy to be back in a more permanent location. They were relived on the Atchafalaya by the 2nd Brigade.
Friday, October 28, 1864
They stayed in camp again today while Confederate troops continue to fire on them all day.
Thursday, October 27, 1864
The Union troops did not move today. There was frequent picket firing near their camp by the Confederates, but no one was hurt. The movement is slow, as they have to cut new roads to Morganza.
Wednesday, October 26, 1864
The 130th finally received orders to get ready to move. At 1 o'clock they began to head back to Morganza. The Confederate troops harassed them, firing at them along the bayou. The Union troops went into camp near an old mill on the Atchafalaya.
Tuesday, October 25, 1864
Today there was the occasional picket firing, but no serious injuries on either side. The weather looked like rain all day, and it finally started to sprinkle at dusk. Unfortunately the men had no tents or anything for shelter.
Monday, October 24, 1864
The days are all about the same. The regiment stayed in camp while companies were sent out for picket duty. There continued to be light firing on the picket lines, but no serious battles.
Sunday, October 23, 1864
The 130th was still in their camp today. The picket firing intensified today and continued throughout the day. There were even a couple shots fired from Union cannons, but no response from the Confederates.
Saturday, October 22, 1864
The 130th remained in camp all day. They saw the cavalry passing by in small squads throughout the day. Stayed in same old camp on the Bayou. Cavalry passing in small squads all day. There seemed to be less firing on the picket lines today.
Friday, October 21, 1864
The 130th was still in camp on the Lost River. There was a Cavalry Brigade that moved into the area today. They brought in eight confederate soldiers, plus a captain and two Lieutenants. The men in the camp could here firing on the picket lines all day.
Thursday, October 20, 1864
Last night at 10 o'clock the 130th received orders to move their camp. They moved out in silence in the night to a place about a quarter of a mile from the Atchafalaya River on the bank of the Lost River. They stayed here all day and camped for the night. According to Leonidas Bradley,
Good deal of picket firing. Killed seven and wounded sixteen Rebs.
Wednesday, October 19, 1864
They started at 4:00 o'clock this morning by crossing the bridge and moving to the Atchafalaya River. They arrived at the river about 7:00 o'clock and found a few Confederate soldiers across the river. The Union soldiers moved up the river to Baldwin's Ferry and went into camp for the night. It started to rain at 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon and continued the rest of the day and night.
Tuesday, October 18, 1864
Today the 130th Illinois Infantry received orders to be ready to march at 11 o'clock in the morning with 5 rations for 5 days. They began at 4:00 o'clock int he afternoon and marched until about 8:00 o'clock. They went into camp near a bridge on a bayou.
Sunday, October 16, 1864
From time to time various companies and regiments would go out on scouting missions. In general there was very limited contact with skirmishers from the Confederate ranks. The soldiers now believe they will quarter for the winter in this place.
Tuesday, October 11, 1864
The weather continued to stay cool. Some of the men built fireplaces in their tents. These provided some warmth to the Union troops.
Saturday, October 8, 1864
After warming up for a few days, the weather turned very cool today. The wind blew all day long. The men in of the 130th stayed in camp and tried find ways to keep warm.
Tuesday, October 4, 1864
The monotony of camp life was broken today when the weather turned very cold. The men spent the day trying to find ways to keep warm.
Monday, September 26, 1864
The men in the 130th fell into a routine, with most of their time being spent in camp. Occasionally they would go out on a scouting march but rarely did they find any Southern forces willing to fight.
Wednesday, September 21, 1864
The Union soldier went back to the Atchafalaya River today, and took pontoon bridges with them. They crossed the river but found the Southern troops retreating upon their approach.
Monday, September 19, 1864
The Illinois troops stayed in camp today and nothing significant occurred.
Sunday, September 18, 1864
They arrived back at their camp around 10 o'clock this morning. The men were very tired after the battle and then the march back to camp. They lost five or six horses killed in the battle, along with about half a dozen men who were wounded. They estimated the Southerners lost fifteen men either killed or wounded.
Saturday, September 17, 1864
Early this morning the 130th marched about 6 miles to the Atchafalaya River. They found the Confederate troops on the other side of the river entrenched behind their fortifications. The Confederates began to fire on the Union troops.
As the country was very swampy and lined with bayous, there seemed to be only one place to approach the river. It was a narrow piece of land with swamps on either side. Just as the 130th regiment entered this narrow strip the Confederates let loose with a great volley of shells and muskets. One man from William Fleming's company was wounded in the initial barrage.
The union troops took cover where they could find it and began to work their way forward, using trees and low pieces of land as cover. When they found the right spot, the Union army set their artillery and began to return the fire. Their was very brisk artillery fire from both sides for several hours, ending around four o'clock.
The 130th stayed near the river until about 6 o'clock in the evening. With no means to cross the river, they began to make their way back to their camp.
As the country was very swampy and lined with bayous, there seemed to be only one place to approach the river. It was a narrow piece of land with swamps on either side. Just as the 130th regiment entered this narrow strip the Confederates let loose with a great volley of shells and muskets. One man from William Fleming's company was wounded in the initial barrage.
The union troops took cover where they could find it and began to work their way forward, using trees and low pieces of land as cover. When they found the right spot, the Union army set their artillery and began to return the fire. Their was very brisk artillery fire from both sides for several hours, ending around four o'clock.
The 130th stayed near the river until about 6 o'clock in the evening. With no means to cross the river, they began to make their way back to their camp.
Friday, September 16, 1864
William Fleming finally caught up with the 130th Illinois Infantry today, and almost immediately went into action. He had not been in camp for more than an hour or two when they received orders to draw rations for two days and go out on a scout. William Fleming wasn't quite ready, as he noted in his diary:
...as I had not reported for duty or had neither gun or equipment they didnt expect me to go, but one of the boys was sick and couldnot go. I just volinteered my servis and took his gun an equipment and joined them,The regiment began marching about sunset, and after marching about 12 miles then went into camp at midnight.
Wednesday, September 14, 1864
William Fleming boarded a boat today headed towards Morganza Bend to rejoin his regiment.
Tuesday, September 13, 1864
The 130th Illinois Infantry returned from their scouting trip at about 4:00 o'clock this afternoon.
William Fleming was apparently still in New Orleans awaiting his orders to join his regiment.
William Fleming was apparently still in New Orleans awaiting his orders to join his regiment.
Monday, September 12, 1864
The men of the 130th Illinois Infantry received orders to load onto boats at 7:00 o'clock this evening to go out on a scouting mission.
Meanwhile, William Fleming reported to the U.S. Baracks Hospital, then returned to New Orleans.
Meanwhile, William Fleming reported to the U.S. Baracks Hospital, then returned to New Orleans.
Wednesday, September 7, 1864
The 130th Illinois Infantry was still waiting on their marching orders. Today the 96th Ohio Volunteers came up from New Orleans. The 130th still believes they will receive their orders soon.
Saturday, September 3, 1864
The 2nd Division of the 19th Army Corps received orders and part of the division embarked today. The men of the 130th assume they will be moving soon.
William Fleming's furlough has come to an end and today he will begin his trip to return to the 130th. In his diary he said:
William Fleming's furlough has come to an end and today he will begin his trip to return to the 130th. In his diary he said:
I remained at home visiting my old neighbors around the Grove untill the 3d day of Sept, my furlough being expired I was under the painful necessity of bidding my family farewell to return to the Army again, on the morning of the 3d I left for Vandalia and took the cars for Cairo, from thence to Orleans
Thursday, September 1, 1864
While William Fleming continues to enjoy his furlough, the men of the 130th received orders today to draw rations for 10 days and be ready to embark on short notice. They assume they will go up to Natchez or Memphis.
Tuesday, August 16, 1864
The 130th Illinois Infantry continued to pass their time in Morganza. The scuttlebutt was that they would receive orders to move at anytime.
William Fleming continued to enjoy his furlough in Mulberry Grove, spending time with his family and friends.
William Fleming continued to enjoy his furlough in Mulberry Grove, spending time with his family and friends.
Tuesday, August 9, 1864
In Morganza the men of the 130th regiment watched the 4th Wisconsin Calvary leave today on steamers for Baton Rouge. They also received an official dispatch that the 77th Illinois and others had captured Fort Gaines and 800 prisoners near Mobile, Alabama.
Sunday, August 7, 1864
After visiting family and friends, the William Fleming family returned to Mulberry Grove. In his words,
I remained at home visiting my old neighbors around the Grove until the 3rd day of September.
Monday, August 1, 1864
Back in Morganza (New Orleans) the men of the 130th Illinois Infantry were expecting orders at anytime. Just two days ago, on July 30th, the Illinois 77th Infantry Regiment left aboard the steamboat St. Charles on their way to Mobile Bay in Alabama. The 130th expected to follow them or go to Pensacola, Florida.
Saturday, July 30, 1864
Two soldiers from the 130th were reported as deserters today: Private William Cummins, Company B., from Sangamon County, and Private John T. Cashon, Company E, from Dudleyville.
Thursday, July 28, 1864
The men of the 130th arrived at Morganza at 2 o'clock this morning. They stayed on board until 8 o'clock and then went into camp on the riverbank.
Private Albert Ferguson, Company C, from Cairo was presumed drowned today. His body will be found in the river tomorrow.
Private Albert Ferguson, Company C, from Cairo was presumed drowned today. His body will be found in the river tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 27, 1864
The steam Vivian stopped near Baton Rouge to repair the boat wheel. Some of the soldiers went on shore and walked around the city.
Tuesday, July 26, 1864
While William Fleming was visiting family and friends in central Illinois, his fellow soldiers of the 130th Illinois received orders and boarded the steam Alice Vivian at 2 o'clock this morning. However, they did not get underway until 5 o'clock in the afternoon. The 83rd Ohio Volunteers were on the Alice Vivian with them.
The 77th Illinois also boarded the Alice Vivian, and assumed they, too, were on their way. However, they were ordered off the boat and returned to their camp. When they returned to camp they found that others had already scavenged everything. Their bedding, boards, and everything else was gone!
The 77th Illinois also boarded the Alice Vivian, and assumed they, too, were on their way. However, they were ordered off the boat and returned to their camp. When they returned to camp they found that others had already scavenged everything. Their bedding, boards, and everything else was gone!
Saturday, July 23, 1864
After staying home in Mulberry Grove for about a week, William Fleming, his wife Nancy, and two sons went to Christian and Moultrie Counties in Illinois, staying about two weeks before returning home.
Christian County is about 45 miles straight north of Mulberry Grove, and Moultrie County is just east of there. They likely visited both of their parents, siblings and their families. Many of the Fleming's were living in those two counties before, during and after the Civil War.
William and Nancy previously lived in DeWitt County, just a little further to the north. Their oldest son James was born there in 1858, and the 1860 census showed them living in Waynesville in DeWitt County.
Additionally, Nancy Ann Leigh's parents and some of her siblings were also in DeWitt County, according to the 1860 census.
So, William and Nancy probably had many family and friends to visit in central Illinois during those two weeks.
Christian County is about 45 miles straight north of Mulberry Grove, and Moultrie County is just east of there. They likely visited both of their parents, siblings and their families. Many of the Fleming's were living in those two counties before, during and after the Civil War.
William and Nancy previously lived in DeWitt County, just a little further to the north. Their oldest son James was born there in 1858, and the 1860 census showed them living in Waynesville in DeWitt County.
Additionally, Nancy Ann Leigh's parents and some of her siblings were also in DeWitt County, according to the 1860 census.
So, William and Nancy probably had many family and friends to visit in central Illinois during those two weeks.
Thursday, July 21, 1864
The men of the 130th arrived at Algiers this morning at about 10 o'clock. They went into camper here, opposite of New Orleans.
They were under the impression they would soon be going to Baltimore as part of the reorganized 19th Army Corps, and join the Army of the Potomac. The 4th Division had, in fact, been incorporated into the 19th Army Corps. But later on only a part of 19th Army Coprs embarks on transports for the east. The men of the 130th will stay in Algiers.
They were under the impression they would soon be going to Baltimore as part of the reorganized 19th Army Corps, and join the Army of the Potomac. The 4th Division had, in fact, been incorporated into the 19th Army Corps. But later on only a part of 19th Army Coprs embarks on transports for the east. The men of the 130th will stay in Algiers.
Wednesday, July 20, 1864
Back in Louisiana, the men of the 130th received orders today to board the steam Starlight. The boarded at 3 o'clock in the afternoon and left for Algiers at sundown. The moved on the river all night, enjoying a clear, bright beautiful sky.
The 77th Illinois also embarked for their old headquarters near New Orleans today. The were on the steamer Tamaulipas. It was obvious to the soldiers that something big was in the works, based on the large massing of troops.
The 77th Illinois also embarked for their old headquarters near New Orleans today. The were on the steamer Tamaulipas. It was obvious to the soldiers that something big was in the works, based on the large massing of troops.
Monday, July 18, 1864
Back in the Louisiana, the 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment was inspected by Captain Wilkin. They then received orders to be ready to go to Algiers at a moments warning. The men had grown accustomed to camp life and did not like the idea of a move.
Saturday, July 16, 1864
At 3 o’clock this morning, William Fleming boarded a train for Vandalia. He made good time and arrived at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. Fleming wrote in his diary what happened next...
I lost no time in getting a conveyance home I arrived at home at 5 O C found all well and had a season of rejoicing together. I remained at home for about a week.
Friday, July 15, 1864
After 5 days on the Mississippi, William Fleming arrived today in Cairo, Illinois
Tuesday, July 12, 1864
Private Samuel O. Shoemaker died today. He was shot by a guard in the prison camp in Tyler Texas. This is where the men captured at the battle of Mansfield were sent. Shoemaker was assigned to Company H, and from Richland County.
Sunday, July 10, 1864
William Fleming's diary started today with this entry:
About ten o'clock the morning of July the 10th 64 there was an orderly come in my ward and inquired for me and found me and told me to pack up and report to Headquarters. I complyed with his request and when I reported I found the paymaster and he paid me 8 months pay and I was ordered on a boat and a furlough in my possession for sixty days and in a few minutes I was sailing up the R for home.
Why was William Fleming in the hospital? He was never injured in battle, so he was likely suffering from some disease or illness. He may have been there for some time, even missing the Red River Campaign.
Regardless of the situation, William Fleming was on his way home to see his family twenty-three months after his enlistment..
Saturday, July 9, 1864
Private Samuel Ingels died today at New Orleans. He was from Old Ripley and assigned to Company E.
Monday, July 4, 1864
While July 4th was a holiday to celebrate, it wasn't a big celebration in camp. According to Leonidas Bradley,
There was a one-horse celebration nearby here. I did not attend. It did not amount to much. Day passed sluggishly.Apparently camp life could be pretty monotonous, even on a holiday.
Tuesday, June 28, 1864
For some reason, the soldiers expected an attack last night, but the Confederate Army chose not to come.
Sunday, June 26, 1864
Today the regiment received news that the 13th Army Corps, and their division had been broken up. This was common when a corp or division suffered a large number of casualties.
The 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment was now assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division, 19th Army Corps, and Department of the Gulf.
The 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment was now assigned to the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division, 19th Army Corps, and Department of the Gulf.
Friday, June 24, 1864
Again today, Leonidas Bradley told of his encounters with the ladies of the evening.
Took ride in the evening with Lt. Martin and Captain Wilkin through the city on horseback. Saw many pretty women, but spoke to none.
Thursday, June 23, 1864
The world's oldest profession saw quite a boost during the Civil War. Leonidas Bradley described the ladies like this:
Took ride in the evening with Lieutenant Martin down through the city. Saw some pretty girls, but doubted their amiable quarters.
Tuesday, June 21, 1864
The day started off fine, but there was a violent thunderstorm in the afternoon.
Monday, June 20, 1864
It was warm and muggy again today. Major Reid and the other paroled prisoners left for New Orleans last night.
Sunday, June 19, 1864
The weather turned warm and muggy. Major Reid and Lieutenant Phillips were still in camp with them. Many of the men went to church today in town.
Saturday, June 18, 1864
There was some excitement today, as Major Reid, Lieutenant Phillips, and others stopped in camp on their way to New Orleans as paroled prisoners. It was a common practice during the war to exchange prisoners.
Thursday, June 16, 1864
Regular events in camp included inspections and reviews by various generals. While the soldiers may have seemed bored, the appreciated the rest after the Red River campaign
Wednesday, June 15, 1864
It was another nice day with no rain. Many of the men were allowed frequent trips to town for sightseeing.
Monday, June 13, 1864
The rain let up through part of the day. Leonidas Bradley tried to deal with the heavy rain as best he could:
Laid brick floor in tent, looked nice.
Sunday, June 12, 1864
It rained all last night, all day, and into the evening. Leonidas Bradley noted:
Had great time with water in the tents to day, almost flooded us out.
Saturday, June 11, 1864
It was a fine day until later in the afternoon, and then there was a rain shower. Some of the men went out riding and returned with blackberries.
Friday, June 10, 1864
It was a fine morning, but the rain started at noon. Fortunately, the skies cleared about 2 o'clock.
When the army wasn't on the move, life in camp quickly became boring and tedious. The men came up with all sorts of diversions to combat the boredom, including playing cards and having head-lice races!
When the army wasn't on the move, life in camp quickly became boring and tedious. The men came up with all sorts of diversions to combat the boredom, including playing cards and having head-lice races!
Thursday, June 9, 1864
It was a beautiful morning and many of the men felt better today as mail came to the camp.
Wednesday, June 8, 1864
It began to rain early in the day and rained most of the day. About 3/4ths of the regiment is sick, likely due to the damp, rainy weather.
Monday, June 6, 1864
About noon today the soldiers were ordered to move their camp about 200 yards to the left. After setting up their tents it began to rain. The rain continued all after noon and into the evening. The water was about two inches deep in the newly erected tents.
Sunday, June 5, 1864
The weather improved today. A boat came up from New Orleans and the men are looking forward to mail today or tomorrow.
Saturday, June 4, 1864
The rain continued for most of the day. Most of the soldiers who were not on duty tried to stay dry inside their tents.
Friday, June 3, 1864
The rain continued this morning, with dark, overcast skies. It rained very hard this evening and the camp was all wet.
Thursday, June 2, 1864
The fair weather from the past few days was interrupted by rain that started early this afternoon and continued the rest of the day.
Sunday, May 29, 1864
The men of the 130th disembarked from their transport at 4 o'clock this morning and went into camp about ½ mile from the river.
Saturday, May 28, 1864
The 130th boarded the boat at 8 o'clock this morning and set sail for Baton Rouge at 11 o'clock. They arrived at Baton Rouge at 5 o'clock this afternoon, and stayed on board, sleeping on the deck tonight.
Friday, May 27, 1864
It was a fine day today. The men of the 130th expect to go to Bathon Rouge soon. A boat came up in the evening to take them. They began loading their mules and supplies onto the boat and hope to be on their way tomorrow.
Thursday, May 26, 1864
There were no orders to get on board the boat. The Colonel Cowles returned from Baton Rouge today, but all of the regiment was off duty. However, they expect orders at any moment.
Wednesday, May 25, 1864
The wagons of the 130th regiment were loaded on the steam Colonel Cowles. She started for Baton Rouge tonight and will return soon.
Tuesday, May 24, 1864
It was a beautiful, bright, cheerful day. The army was ordered to go by boat to New Orleans. The 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment was left behind and will hopefully go tomorrow.
Monday, May 23, 1864
It was a fine morning in their camp at Morganza. The men didn't know exactly where they were heading, but assumed it was New Orleans for now.
Sunday, May 22, 1864
The Army moved at 8 o'clock this morning going down the river to New Orleans. They camped about noon on the Mississippi River at Morganza Bend. They put up tents, expecting to stay here for some time.
Saturday, May 21, 1864
The wagon train hitched up and moved at midnight. They reached the Mississippi River at daylight and the troops were very excited to see the great river once again. From the mouth of the Red River the march proceeded towards New Orleans. They stopped at 10 o'clock this morning and the men slept well in the outdoors with no coverings.
Friday, May 20, 1864
It was a beautiful morning. The entire wagon train had made it over the river and the threat of continued Confederate harassment was greatly diminished. The army began marching at 8 o'clock this morning and made four miles before camping until dark.
With the last of the train over the river, the campaign was finally over. In all, the Union had lost over 8,000 men, 9 ships, and 57 guns while the Confederacy lost only about 4,000 men. Not only did the Union get the worst of it, they had gained absolutely nothing. The entire Red River area was now back in Confederate hands, and it would remain that way for the rest of the war.
With the last of the train over the river, the campaign was finally over. In all, the Union had lost over 8,000 men, 9 ships, and 57 guns while the Confederacy lost only about 4,000 men. Not only did the Union get the worst of it, they had gained absolutely nothing. The entire Red River area was now back in Confederate hands, and it would remain that way for the rest of the war.
Thursday, May 19, 1864
The Union army sent troops out this morning to draw out the Confederates. The wagon train moved across the river all afternoon and into the evening.
The Confederate prisoners, numbering about 250, were brought down to the boat and prepared to cross the river. They admitted they were whipped the other day, but thought they could take the Union army today. However, there was no firing from either side today.
The Confederate prisoners, numbering about 250, were brought down to the boat and prepared to cross the river. They admitted they were whipped the other day, but thought they could take the Union army today. However, there was no firing from either side today.
Wednesday, May 18, 1864
The Confederates brought the fight to the Union army about 8 o'clock this morning. In the afternoon the fight became much more larger and the Union forcesled by General Smith went into it with full force. The Confederates were finally driven from the field over 200 Southerners.
This turned out to be the final battle of the Red River Campaign. During and after this battle, the Union forces began crossing the Atchafalaya River on a makeshift bridge. Once across, they would be safe from further pursuit by General Taylor’s forces.
This turned out to be the final battle of the Red River Campaign. During and after this battle, the Union forces began crossing the Atchafalaya River on a makeshift bridge. Once across, they would be safe from further pursuit by General Taylor’s forces.
Tuesday, May 17, 1864
The Union arm went into camp about 7 o'clock this morning, after pursing the Confederates throughout the night. They were now about eight miles from Atchafalaya.
They began moving again at 9 o'clock this morning, with skirmishing on all sides. The Confederates caputred a wagon from the train and continued to follow and harass the Union column throughout the day.
They began moving again at 9 o'clock this morning, with skirmishing on all sides. The Confederates caputred a wagon from the train and continued to follow and harass the Union column throughout the day.
The Northerners reached the fort on Atchafalaya
Bayou, then crossed Bayou DeGlaise and camped. At that point they felt safe for the time being.
Monday, May 16, 1864
Fighting began at daybreak this morning, near the village of Marksville. The artillery batteries of both sides were heavily engaged. It was an almost constant boom of artillery until noon, when the firing ceased.
After passing through the town the union column turned to the south and passed over a beautiful prairie. Along the edge of this prairie there was a piece of timber where the Confederates had planted their guns. As soon as the column came upon the prairie the rebel guns opened fire, killing two of the Union horses. The Union batteries soon wheeled into line, firing and then circling over the prairie. The Confederates made the same rapid movement. It was a beautiful sight, but the damage was not great on either side.
After passing through the town the union column turned to the south and passed over a beautiful prairie. Along the edge of this prairie there was a piece of timber where the Confederates had planted their guns. As soon as the column came upon the prairie the rebel guns opened fire, killing two of the Union horses. The Union batteries soon wheeled into line, firing and then circling over the prairie. The Confederates made the same rapid movement. It was a beautiful sight, but the damage was not great on either side.
Sunday, May 15, 1864
The Army continued yesterday's march until 3:30 this morning, when they stopped and ate. Many of the men slept out in the open on the levees of the Red River. However, it was a short night as the column began to move at 8 o'clock this morning.
They only moved about 3 miles before halting. The Union army skirmished with the Confederates in the afternoon and both sides lost a few men. The train moved on again at 6 o'clock and then camped about 1 ½ miles below Fort De Russey.
They only moved about 3 miles before halting. The Union army skirmished with the Confederates in the afternoon and both sides lost a few men. The train moved on again at 6 o'clock and then camped about 1 ½ miles below Fort De Russey.
Saturday, May 14, 1864
The retreat began moving about 10 o'clock this morning. A squad of Southern soldiers fired into the transports about 8 miles below Alexandria, Louisiana. The troops in advance of the column skirmished with the Confederates in front of them.
Friday, May 13, 1864
Constructed by an ingenious Wisconsin engineer and the muscle of 3,000 soldiers, the Red River dam would become famous in the history of military engineering.
The wagon train began to move at 7 o'clock this morning - about the same time as the gunboat Louisville cleared the rapids. Just before the column got to Alexandria, someone set fire to the block adjacent to the courthouse on Front Street. By noon half of the city was destroyed.
The cries of the newly homeless and distressed women and children tugged at the hearts of the Union troops passing by. Many of the homeless came to the river bank to escape the fire's oppressive heat and smoke. Some asked for safe passage to New Orleans, but they were all denied
The column of troops went into camp at 7 o'clock this evening.
The cries of the newly homeless and distressed women and children tugged at the hearts of the Union troops passing by. Many of the homeless came to the river bank to escape the fire's oppressive heat and smoke. Some asked for safe passage to New Orleans, but they were all denied
The column of troops went into camp at 7 o'clock this evening.
Thursday, May 12, 1864
There was great excitement today as hundreds of troops went to the river and watched three gun boats clear the falls. There are just a few more boats that need to navigate the falls tomorrow, and the fleet will be freed.
Wednesday, May 11, 1864
The weather turned warmer today. No additional boats have made it over the dam yet. The troops in camp believe they will begin to move as soon as the rest of the fleet is freed.
Tuesday, May 10, 1864
It rained last night, which settled the dust and made camp tolerable for the first time in several days. There were no plans to move out today, and the prospects didn't look any better for tomorrow. However, the dam repairs went quickly and there was hope that boats would begin moving over the rapids today or tonight.
Monday, May 9, 1864
Only a handful of boats made it over the rapids yesterday. Pressure on the dam continued to build all night, and at 5:00 o'clock this morning the center of the dam gave way. As the water level was rapidly falling, Admiral Porter immediately ordered the gunboat Lexington to make a run for it. The Lexington managed to clear the rapids, as did three other ships. But the water level had fallen to a depth that prevented the rest of Porter’s fleet from navigating the rapids.
In addition to repairing the center section of the dam, work began on smaller wing dams closer to the rapids. The hope was that the wing dams would reduce some of the pressure on the main dam.
Despite the setback the men in camp continued to make preparations to move out.
In addition to repairing the center section of the dam, work began on smaller wing dams closer to the rapids. The hope was that the wing dams would reduce some of the pressure on the main dam.
Despite the setback the men in camp continued to make preparations to move out.
Sunday, May 8, 1864
Still dry and dusty, however there was good news today. The work on the dam had progressed so that the water level had risen to the point where some of the smaller gunboats could make it over the rapids. The division train of wagons was ordered to be ready to move the next afternoon.
Saturday, May 7, 1864
The weather continued to be dusty and unpleasant. Nearly the entire 4th division had been ordered to the front. Those few left behind in camp anticipate they will be ordered to go, too. Things looked very bleak for the Union army.
Friday, May 6, 1864
Captain Charles T. Mullin died today from his wounds. He was from Waterloo and assigned to Company A of the 130th Illinois Infantry.
The weather continued to be warm, windy and dusty. A large number of the troops left camp and moved out toward the front today. The Union army was in a real predicament - the Confederates continued to push towards the Union camp, and rations were quickly disappearing with no hope for replenishment due to the blockade.
The weather continued to be warm, windy and dusty. A large number of the troops left camp and moved out toward the front today. The Union army was in a real predicament - the Confederates continued to push towards the Union camp, and rations were quickly disappearing with no hope for replenishment due to the blockade.
Thursday, May 5, 1864
The weather today was windy, dusty and generally disagreeable.
The Confederates captured two Union gunboats and one transport, the John Warner. They were able to establish a strong blockade below the Union position. The blockade prevented the Union troops from getting supplies from boats coming up the river.
The John Warner was a Union transport ship that had started on its way down the Red River on May 4th. Not all the Union ships had been trapped by the low water above the rapids. The John Warner was on its way to the Mississippi River, carrying an entire regiment of men going home on furlough.
The Confederates captured two Union gunboats and one transport, the John Warner. They were able to establish a strong blockade below the Union position. The blockade prevented the Union troops from getting supplies from boats coming up the river.
The John Warner was a Union transport ship that had started on its way down the Red River on May 4th. Not all the Union ships had been trapped by the low water above the rapids. The John Warner was on its way to the Mississippi River, carrying an entire regiment of men going home on furlough.
Wednesday, May 4, 1864
Some of the troops out foraging today skirmished with the Confederate troops. Their were no serious injuries and the Confederates moved away.
Tuesday, May 3, 1864
The Union army settled into a daily routine. Some regiments were working on the dam, while others were performing picket duty, and still others were going out foraging.
Monday, May 2, 1864
While work continued on the dam, many regiments were sent out today to dislodge the Confederate forces located twelve miles away.
Sunday, May 1, 1864
It was cloudy and cool today. The soldiers continued their work on the dam to raise the water level in the river. The Union plan made sense, but they were unsure how long construction would take or how quickly the river level would rise.
Saturday, April 30, 1864
The fine weather continued, as the Union army was still camped behind their defense works at Alexandria. The construction of the dam on the Red River began today.
Thursday, April 28, 1864
The weather was nice today. The Confederates continued to skirmish with the Union troops. Confederate General Taylor moved his 6,000 troops around Alexandria, and was intent on causing as much trouble for the Union forces as possible.
The Union forces were stalled in Alexandria for a good reason: the Union navy was trapped above the falls. The water level of the Red River had fallen so low that many of the Admiral Porter’s ships could not continue.
The situation seemed desperate. One option was to leave a large number of troops with the ships until the water level rose. But that might not happen until next Spring. Another option was to destroy all of the ships and move on. Neither of these options were desirable.
Lt. Colonel Bailey, the Chief Engineer of the 19th Army Corp, suggested they build a dam to raise the level of the river so that the ships could pass. His idea was accepted and orders were soon given to begin construction of the dam.
The Union forces were stalled in Alexandria for a good reason: the Union navy was trapped above the falls. The water level of the Red River had fallen so low that many of the Admiral Porter’s ships could not continue.
The situation seemed desperate. One option was to leave a large number of troops with the ships until the water level rose. But that might not happen until next Spring. Another option was to destroy all of the ships and move on. Neither of these options were desirable.
Lt. Colonel Bailey, the Chief Engineer of the 19th Army Corp, suggested they build a dam to raise the level of the river so that the ships could pass. His idea was accepted and orders were soon given to begin construction of the dam.
Wednesday, April 27, 1864
The Union army was still in camp near Alexandria today. There were reports of skirmishes all around them, and the troops anticipate a general engagement soon.
Tuesday, April 26, 1864
The rest of the Army came into camp today, including General Smith's forces, which made up the rear guard during the retreat. They received cheers and ovations at they entered Alexandria.
Monday, April 25, 1864
The march towards Alexandria began at 8 o'clock this morning. The Union army marched until nearly sundown and camped near Alexandria, Louisiana. Again, they camped in the same area where they camped on the march to the north. There was no fighting today.
Sunday, April 24, 1864
The Union army stopped at about dawn this morning, in the middle of a pine forest. They stayed only a few hours and began to move again. They reached the bank of the Red River, then moved on to the Bayou Rapides. They camped near where they camped on their march to Shreveport.
Saturday, April 23, 1864
The Union army skirmished with Confederate troops, beginning about 8 o'clock this morning. Both the front and rear of the retreating Union army came under attack.
This battle occurred near Monett’s Ferry. The Confederates intent was to prevent the Union army from crossing the Cane River. Even though they were outnumbered, the Confederates planned to surround the Union and give them all they could handle. The Confederates were situated on a bluff of the river, and the batteries from both sides began to fire. The shelling went on for more than an hour.
There had been a bridge here but the Confederates had destroyed it. The Union troops would have to build a pontoon so the wagons could cross.
While the shelling was in progress, the 13th Army Corps and part of the 19th Army Corps moved up the river about two miles. Here they were able to cross the river, by wading in the waist deep water. After crossing, General Weitzel's Division of the 19th Corps, took the advance. They had marched through the timber only a mile or two when they encountered the Confederate's picket. The battle quickly heated up, and soon Weitzel's column charged across an open field in the face of a galling fire. Several Union trrops fell, but the charge was a success.
Meanwhile the Southerners continued their battle with General Smith in the front. Eventually the Confederates front gave way and the Union claimed victory at the Battle of Kane River.
The Union army began moving again about midnight tonight.
This battle occurred near Monett’s Ferry. The Confederates intent was to prevent the Union army from crossing the Cane River. Even though they were outnumbered, the Confederates planned to surround the Union and give them all they could handle. The Confederates were situated on a bluff of the river, and the batteries from both sides began to fire. The shelling went on for more than an hour.
There had been a bridge here but the Confederates had destroyed it. The Union troops would have to build a pontoon so the wagons could cross.
While the shelling was in progress, the 13th Army Corps and part of the 19th Army Corps moved up the river about two miles. Here they were able to cross the river, by wading in the waist deep water. After crossing, General Weitzel's Division of the 19th Corps, took the advance. They had marched through the timber only a mile or two when they encountered the Confederate's picket. The battle quickly heated up, and soon Weitzel's column charged across an open field in the face of a galling fire. Several Union trrops fell, but the charge was a success.
Meanwhile the Southerners continued their battle with General Smith in the front. Eventually the Confederates front gave way and the Union claimed victory at the Battle of Kane River.
The Union army began moving again about midnight tonight.
Friday, April 22, 1864
After marching all night, the column stopped about 7 o'clock this morning and ate breakfast. They began moving again at 1 o'clock this afternoon, and stopped at 8 o'clock this evening and went into camp.
There was some urgency to the Union Army's retreat, as the Confederate forces were also moving south, with the the intention of cutting off the Union retreat before they could cross the Cane River at Monnett’s Ferry.
Thursday, April 21, 1864
They finally received orders to march for Alexandria. The march began at 5:00 o'clock in the afternoon. It took awhile to get the train of wagons organized and moving. They traveled all night.
Wednesday, April 20, 1864
The men of the 130th were still in camp at Grand Ecore, Louisiana. But they still were ready to march at any moment. General Banks sent General Smith's forces ahead to Natchitoches to engage the enemy and provide cover for the rest of the retreating army. The men of the 130th were sure they would move tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 19, 1864
The Union soldiers were still in camp at Grand Ecore, Louisiana. However, they received orders to be ready to march against the enemy at any moment and draw two days rations.
Sunday, April 17, 1864
Private Jackson Kennedy, died today in St. Louis. He was assigned to Company K and from Marshall.
The Union army was still in camp at the same place. However, rumors ran through camp that they would soon be moving perhaps to Natchez. The Confederate General Taylor was reported to be just 3 miles away, with 5,000 men at Natchitoches.
The Union army was still in camp at the same place. However, rumors ran through camp that they would soon be moving perhaps to Natchez. The Confederate General Taylor was reported to be just 3 miles away, with 5,000 men at Natchitoches.
Saturday, April 16, 1864
The retreating army was still at Grand Ecore and nothing unusual happened today.
Friday, April 15, 1864
The regiment was still in line of battle. They were in the same place as yesterday. It was still quiet and there was no sign of the enemy.
Thurday, April 14, 1864
The Union army was still encamped near the river at Grand Ecore. Still at this place. The 130th Illinois has been out in line of battle since yesterday morning. However, there has been no attack.
One gun-boat and transports ran the Confederate blockade above Grand Ecore yesterday. The Confederates fired at them, but did little damage.
One gun-boat and transports ran the Confederate blockade above Grand Ecore yesterday. The Confederates fired at them, but did little damage.
Wednesday, April 13, 1864
The men of the 130th were on picket duty today. They were ordered to form a battle line at 11:00 A.M. The army continued to build fortifications and expect an attack today or tomorrow morning.
Tuesday, April 12, 1864
The reports of April 12, 1864 list the total strength of the 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment as just 3 officers and 65 men.
(Editor's Note: I am assuming William Fleming was one of those 65 men. He was not listed with the other 130th Illinois Infantry soldiers at the prison camp in Tyler, Texas.)
On the 12th of April there was heavy cannonading up the river. General Gordon, with 4,500 men, had gone in that direction.
Several thousand reinforcements came in to camp today by transports on the river.
(Editor's Note: I am assuming William Fleming was one of those 65 men. He was not listed with the other 130th Illinois Infantry soldiers at the prison camp in Tyler, Texas.)
On the 12th of April there was heavy cannonading up the river. General Gordon, with 4,500 men, had gone in that direction.
Several thousand reinforcements came in to camp today by transports on the river.
Monday, April 11, 1864
Other troops arrived today in Grand Ecore. The soldiers hastily constructed fortifications made from logs and dirt to guard against a possible Confederate attack.
Sunday, April 10, 1864
The retreat marched until 3:00 A.M. this morning and did not start up again until 8:00 A.M. Captain DeCamp was now in command of 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment, as Major Reid was missing. (He had been shot and captured by the Confederates).
They soon completed the 35 mile march from Pleasant Hill and arrived at Grand Ecore. Here they had some protection from the gunboats on the river.
Private William Wiley from the 77th Illinois described the march:
They soon completed the 35 mile march from Pleasant Hill and arrived at Grand Ecore. Here they had some protection from the gunboats on the river.
Private William Wiley from the 77th Illinois described the march:
We were badly worn out. I had marched for two nights and two days barefooted and bare headed. My feet were so swollen I could hardly walk during the last night. . . A great many of our wounded were being hauled back in the ambulances and wagons and the poor fellows were having a hard time of it and we could hear their moans and cries as they were hauled along on that weary march and many one of them died that might have lived if they could have had proper care.
Saturday, April 9, 1864
Last night the supply wagons began to move back to Pleasant Hill - a distance of about eight miles. There was a general sense of confusion during the entire retreat, as soldiers who had survived the battle made their way back in search of their units. The 13th Army Corps was literally cut to pieces. The 4th Division was a mere shadow of its former self, and the 130th regiments (and others) were almost annihilated.
All available means were used for the transportation of the wounded. They were mounted on horses and mules, on artillery caissons, on carts and wagons - any manner of transportation that could be found. Many soldiers lost their knapsacks and contents, as they had been dropped yesterday when they moved to the front.
Today, skirmishing began at daylight, and the battle of Pleasant Hill began in earnest at 10 o'clock. However, the men of the 130th (those that weren't killed, missing, injured, or taken prisoner the day before) were not involved in the battle. Instead they guarded the wagons on the retreat to Ecore.
The battle at Pleasant Hill continued throughout the day, and eventually the Union forces repulsed the Confederate advance. In fact, the Union army captured at least 500 men and some of the cannons and wagons they lost on the previous day.
Union General Smith was encouraged by the day's events and wanted to take to the offense immediately. However, General Banks ordered a retreat, and that was the end of the Red River campaign. The Confederates would harass the Union army throughout their retreat.
All available means were used for the transportation of the wounded. They were mounted on horses and mules, on artillery caissons, on carts and wagons - any manner of transportation that could be found. Many soldiers lost their knapsacks and contents, as they had been dropped yesterday when they moved to the front.
Today, skirmishing began at daylight, and the battle of Pleasant Hill began in earnest at 10 o'clock. However, the men of the 130th (those that weren't killed, missing, injured, or taken prisoner the day before) were not involved in the battle. Instead they guarded the wagons on the retreat to Ecore.
The battle at Pleasant Hill continued throughout the day, and eventually the Union forces repulsed the Confederate advance. In fact, the Union army captured at least 500 men and some of the cannons and wagons they lost on the previous day.
Union General Smith was encouraged by the day's events and wanted to take to the offense immediately. However, General Banks ordered a retreat, and that was the end of the Red River campaign. The Confederates would harass the Union army throughout their retreat.
Friday, April 8, 1864
This morning the Union Army continued their march toward Shreveport. They left their positions at Pleasant Hill and moved towards Mansfield. The Union cavalry under General Albert L Lee was in the front skirmishing with the Confederates.
The infantry march was slow and tedious, as the night was dark. At daylight the 77th Illinois came upon General Lee's cavalry, which had advanced about ten miles from Pleasant Hill, and was still advancing.
The Union infantry advanced through undulating hills that were thick with pine timber. The confederates, which seemed to the Union army to be only a force of cavalry, continued to fall back. They would be driven from one hill, and then take their position on the next hill. The Union casualties to this point in this running fight were relatively small.
About mid-morning, General Lee asked for fresh units to support the fatigued soldiers who had fought the initial skirmishes. Brigadier General Thomas Ransom, commander of the Union army's 13th Corps, ordered Colonel Joseph Vance's 2nd Brigade, comprised of the 130th Illinois, 48th Ohio, 83rd Ohio, and 96th Ohio regiments, into position to the right of Colonel Frank Emerson's 1st Brigade. This was achieved by 1:30 p.m.
Lt. Colonel Reid, the regimental commander of the 130th Illinois Infantry, remembered the day so far:
After having retreated in front of the advancing Union Forces throughout their march through Louisiana, Major General Richard Taylor's Confederate army decided this is where they would make their stand. General Taylor selected Moss Plantation, about three miles southeast of Mansfield, as his army's new defensive stand. His force consisted of two infantry divisions and three Texas cavalry brigades. General Taylor positioned his army just inside the woods on either side of the Old Stage Road, at a strategic communications hub known as Sabine Cross Roads. Opposing Vance's 2nd Brigade (including the 130th Illinois) were three Louisiana regiments commanded by Colonel Henry Gray. Facing Emerson's 1st Brigade were Texas cavalry brigades commanded by a Frenchman named Camille J. Prince de Polignac.
The story of the 48th Ohio is similar to the other regiments in their brigade:
other to the east. The 130th Illinois was at the point of the 90-degree angle facing to the North, while the the 77th Illinois was to their left, and behind them and facing to northwest. The Union infantry regiments (from the southwest to the northeast corner) were the 23rd Wisconsin, 67th Indiana, 77th Illinois, 130th Illinois, 48th Ohio, 19th Kentucky, 96th Ohio, and the 83rd Ohio. Cavalry units flanked the infantry regiments on either side. Artillery units were positioned on either side of the Old Stage Road (the road that ran between Mansfield and Pleasant Hill) between the 23rd Wisconsin and the 67th Indiana regiments.
Two Confederate brigades commanded by Brigadier General Alfred Mouton stepped out of the woods in which they had assembled and moved into the open field. They arranged themselves into several long lines of soldiers and began their advance on the Union columns less than a half mile away.
As the Confederate army moved into the open field, the Union army opened up with a heavy volley of their muskets. One Confederate recorded his recollections of this fire in his diary, noting that
During the night of April 8th, the Union army retreated about 20 miles to the southeast towards Pleasant Hill. Confederate General Richard Taylor wished to take advantage of the demoralized Union army - he planned to pursue the Union army on April 9th and force their continued retreat. This set the stage for the Battle of Pleasant Hill.
Editor's Note: The battlefield is now a state park. The marker for the 130th Illinois reads as follows:
The infantry march was slow and tedious, as the night was dark. At daylight the 77th Illinois came upon General Lee's cavalry, which had advanced about ten miles from Pleasant Hill, and was still advancing.
The Union infantry advanced through undulating hills that were thick with pine timber. The confederates, which seemed to the Union army to be only a force of cavalry, continued to fall back. They would be driven from one hill, and then take their position on the next hill. The Union casualties to this point in this running fight were relatively small.
About mid-morning, General Lee asked for fresh units to support the fatigued soldiers who had fought the initial skirmishes. Brigadier General Thomas Ransom, commander of the Union army's 13th Corps, ordered Colonel Joseph Vance's 2nd Brigade, comprised of the 130th Illinois, 48th Ohio, 83rd Ohio, and 96th Ohio regiments, into position to the right of Colonel Frank Emerson's 1st Brigade. This was achieved by 1:30 p.m.
Lt. Colonel Reid, the regimental commander of the 130th Illinois Infantry, remembered the day so far:
After a hard day's march, on the 7th day of April, 1864, we camped at Pleasant Hill, La., and on the morning of the 8th, at 4:30, were on our way to Mansfield, La., or Sabine Cross-Roads.
The enemy were falling back slowly. We had marched about twelve miles and went into camp, when an order came for a brigade of infantry to move the "rebs." Our brigade was ordered out. It was about 1 p. m. and we were rushed to the front, two miles from Mansfield, where General Taylor had his command in hand, and about 4 p. m. the whole line was advanced.The 48th Ohio's story for the day was very similar:
We started next morning, April 8th, with the brigade, at 5 1/2 o'clock. The enemy, who had been easily driven the day before by the cavalry, became quite stubborn, and it at times required the aid of the infantry to dislodge them. We marched until half past ten,At about 3 o'clock the Union infantry came to an open field to the left of the road. About a mile ahead they could see the battle flags of their enemy. A battery was brought forward and fired a few shots, but the Confederates did not respond. The brigade then crossed to the East side of the road and moved across a ravine. They came upon a house and near here planted their batteries in preparation of the battle.
when we arrived at St. Patrick's Bayou, which Gen. Franklin selected as our camping-ground. We had scarcely stacked arms, when Gen. Ransom ordered one brigade forward on double-quick. We found great difficulty in passing the cavalry train, which obstructed the entire road through the dense pine forest. At intervals we could hear the heavy firing in our front, indicating that there was work ahead for us. Soon we began to see the wounded and dead, along the road, which showed clearly that the rebels were fighting at
every point.
After having retreated in front of the advancing Union Forces throughout their march through Louisiana, Major General Richard Taylor's Confederate army decided this is where they would make their stand. General Taylor selected Moss Plantation, about three miles southeast of Mansfield, as his army's new defensive stand. His force consisted of two infantry divisions and three Texas cavalry brigades. General Taylor positioned his army just inside the woods on either side of the Old Stage Road, at a strategic communications hub known as Sabine Cross Roads. Opposing Vance's 2nd Brigade (including the 130th Illinois) were three Louisiana regiments commanded by Colonel Henry Gray. Facing Emerson's 1st Brigade were Texas cavalry brigades commanded by a Frenchman named Camille J. Prince de Polignac.
The story of the 48th Ohio is similar to the other regiments in their brigade:
We arrived at the front between one and two o'clock P. M. In our front was a cleared field, and on the opposite side was a belt of timber, where our cavalry was skirmishing with the enemy. Col. Landrum ordered our brigade across to the right of the road, on double-quick, to take position in the edge of the woods. We charged across the open field and over a small stream, then up to the timber. Here the men threw off their knapsacks,The Union line soon formed a 90-degree angle, with one arm stretching south of the Old Stage Road and the
advanced a short distance and halted.
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As the Confederate army moved into the open field, the Union army opened up with a heavy volley of their muskets. One Confederate recorded his recollections of this fire in his diary, noting that
'The balls and grape shot crashing about us whistled terribly and plowed into the ground and beat our soldiers down even as a storm tears down the trees in a forest.Private William Wiley of the 77th Illinois described the early Union response to the rebel attack:
The 48th Ohio was to the immediate right of the 130th Illinois. Their story of the early battle:Just as the rebels were coming up the hill in our front we made a stand in the edge of the timber and poured such a withering fire into their ranks that they gave way and fell back in our front but they swung around and flanked the left of our line doubling it back onto us. [We] were ordered to fall back across the open field and form a new line in rear of our Chicago Mercantile Battery.
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We remained in line of battle until near 4 o'clock, when the cavalry pickets came back on a gallop through our lines, saying the enemy was advancing in strong force. We occupied a narrow strip of timber, and the rebels an open field beyond. Midway between the two armies was a rail fence, running parallel with our line of battle, at the further edge of the timber. We were ordered forward, and had proceeded but a short distance, when wediscovered the long line of rebel infantry, coming on double-quick, to gain the fence. It now became an exciting race, but fortunately we reached the fence while the enemy was still about fifty yards distant. Our men, dropping on their knees, rested their rifles on the fence and delivered a volley with terrible effect. The enemy delivered their fire entirely too high, but stood their ground for half an hour, when the whole line wavered in our front and retreated in disorder, leaving the ground covered with killed and wounded. Cheer after cheer went up from our troops when they saw the rebels flying from the field.
The fence as it appeared in 2012.
In a short time, however, they reformed, and came up in two lines, and renewed the attack, but were repulsed as before. Their field-officers being mounted, were picked off as fast as they came in range. The Division held its position for nearly two hours, against the combined forces of the rebel Generals, Dick Taylor, Walker and Mouton, when suddenly the right of the Regiment was forced back from the fence, caused by an enfilading fire from the enemy.The following is J. H. Snyder's (77th Illinois) account of the battle:
We advanced across another field; then entered a piece of timber. Here the line was formed for battle. But we waited nearly an hour before the engagement began. The Seventy-Seventh halted in a small field to the right of the road that had timber on three sides, and while here tarrying, a cavalryman of the 7th Illinois came riding up to us, knowing many of our boys, and informed us that the rebels were advancing in three columns, and would soon engage us. Just then Gen. Banks ordered the Division forward, the 77th moving to the right oblique.
When the engagement began the Third Division was in the rear some three miles, and the 19th Corps seven miles. Gen. Smith was twenty miles away. The Fourth Division (which included the 77th Illinois and the 130th Illinois) numbered 2,400 effective men on that morning, and this little handful of men, with the cavalry, was brought face to face with the combined armies of Dick Taylor and Kirby Smith.
The line had advanced scarcely three hundred yards when the action began. The rebels threw their line upon our flanks, telescoping our line, and as the timber was denselystudded with underbrush, our boys, in many instances, were entirely surrounded before they knew it. The line being flanked -- the movement striking our extreme right -- the Regiments fought by detail, and by detail were defeated. As the timber was dense with underbrush, and the line of the enemy constantly advancing, surging around farther and farther on our flank, our troops were placed in the dilemma of having the enemy in front and rear.
Thick timber and underbrush in 2012
The column thrown into confusion, hundreds of the boys captured, the enemy pressing us from all quarters, what men were able to get out of the tangle, fell back, forming a line on the batteries which had not, as yet, fired a shot.
When the second line was formed -- the boys acting without organization, for in falling back, each man was left to his chances -- the batteries did good execution. But it was only for a short time, as the enemy were flanking the guns and cutting off all retreat.
A third and last stand was made at the timber to the rear of the open field. But this was merely a feint, for the road being narrow and the timber dense, and impassable for horses and teams, the rush was to occupy the road, and consequently the road was blocked, cutting off all retreat, except in the most confused form. In the confusion of retreat, nearly three hundred wagons and the Chicago Mercantile and Nims' Batteries were captured by the Confederates.
We fell back some distance, perhaps a half-mile from the place of the last stand, before any relief came, when the Third Division met us and formed their line, advancing to the open field, only to be served as we had been. The Third Division was flanked and routed, and fell back to about the same place where they had relieved us, before the advance of the 19th Corps came up. The advance was a Regiment of Zouaves, who had double-quicked until they appeared exhausted and flushed. But forming their line, they checked for the time, the advancing enemy, and the shadows of night brought an end to the further disasters of the day.
Many brave boys were killed and many were captured. The 77th lost one hundred and seventy-one men, the 19th Kentucky two hundred and fifty, and other regiments accordingly. One hundred and forty-three of the 77th boys, with all others captured, were taken to Mansfield and Shreveport and finally to Tyler, Texas, where they lingered in a rebel prison for nearly fourteen months, returning to the Regiment just at the hour of its discharge from the service, the cruel war being over.Lt. Colonel Reid remembered the battle and aftermath this way:
Our division was near a new fence, which the confederates has thrown down to enable them to get to us, but we got there first and held close to the fence, and the "rebs" were in an open field. We used them up. They lost all their field officers and most of their men. We were out of ammunition and I sent Lieutenant Johnson and Sergeant Major Leigh for more, and they returned with the word that the "rebs" were in our rear, and the next move was to get out.
We attempted to form a line of battle, facing south, where the cavalry were farming and near where the 130th had left their knapsacks. Here, while executing this order, I was shot down and paralyzed from head to foot.
My first desire was to get to an oak tree, where our artillery were attempting to keep back the rush of the rebel cavalry and infantry, who were flushed with victory. All our guns, twenty in number, were taken, but my condition was such that I could not move.
When the stampede was over a young man of the confederate army was looking over me. While he stood there a gentleman rode up and demanded my sword, which I was unable to give him. He then told my first visitor to take off my belt and sword and hand them to him, which the first comer did. Then, no doubt, thinking that "all is fair In love and war," and taking a good look at my regulation hat, silk bandanna handkerchief and gauntlets, he remarked that be did not think I would need them any more, and, throwing his old white wool hat down by my side, walked off with the most of my war accoutrements.
Before long a detail of confederates came to carry the wounded to a temporary hospital (out in an open field). I was carried there, and at midnight was taken to Mansfield, a distance of two miles. I was one of three wounded ones placed in an ambulance together. I laid in the middle and on the way to town one of these men died and rolled onto me, almost smothering me to death. 1 had to use my little strength in keeping his body off of me as much as I could.
In Mansfield I was put in a church, with 111 others, and here we wounded fellows stayed until June, when we were paroled at Alexander, La.Historian Victor Hicken summed up the Union defeat:
The Battle of Sabine Cross Roads was probably more vicious than any fought in the entire Red River campaign . . . The Union lost 2,235 in dead, wounded and missing, as well as 20 guns and 250 wagons.The 130th Illinois lost 26 men killed or wounded and 9 officers and 223 men captured for an aggregate loss of 257. Among those wounded was Lt. Colonel John B. Reid. The captured soldiers were imprisoned at Tyler, Texas and not paroled until 13 months later, just before the end of the war. The flag of the regiment, and the color bearer were also captured.
During the night of April 8th, the Union army retreated about 20 miles to the southeast towards Pleasant Hill. Confederate General Richard Taylor wished to take advantage of the demoralized Union army - he planned to pursue the Union army on April 9th and force their continued retreat. This set the stage for the Battle of Pleasant Hill.
Editor's Note: The battlefield is now a state park. The marker for the 130th Illinois reads as follows:
At approximately 4:00pm, Confederate General Alfred Mouton launched his infantrydivision forwarding an attack on the Union line positioned along this snake-rail fence. Today, the ground in front of you is wooded, but in April 1864 it was an open expanse of cleared fields. Initially, the 130th Illinois Infantry Regiment and its sister regiments of Second Brigade, Fourth Division were posted about 200 yards behind, or south of where you now stand in a section of timber. At Mouton’s Louisiana and Texas troops advanced across the open fields toward this position, Union commanders saw the dire importance of moving their brigades forward to the fence line. This would give the 130th Illinois and other Union regiments a clar field of fire. Reaching the fence line, the Illinois men began to deliver well-aimed volleys into Mouton’s men. Occupying the fence line to their right, the men of the 48th Ohio, 19th Kentucky, 96th Ohio and 83rd Ohio Infantry Regiments were adding their musketry to the fight as well. To the left/rear of the 130th Illinois, the 77th Illinois, Infantry Regiment had halted in the woods and was overwhelmed, their attempt to gain the fence linehampered by General Polignac’s Texans. As Polignac’s men swarmed through to the left and Colornel Gray’s Louisiana troops broke through front and right, the 130th Illinois and the other Union regiments along the fence line found themselves surrounded, devastated by the musket fire they were receiving from all sides by Gray and Polignac’s men. Those who were not killed or wounded escaped as best they could, but many were captured en-masse near this area. The 130th Illinois had been destroyed, suffering a casualty rate of 80 percent, more than any Union regiment engaged in the battle and one of the highest of the War. Of the 325 men who went in the fight, only 3 officers and 65 enlisted men answered roll the following day.
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Thursday, April 7th 1864
The column was up and moving early this morning. There was a battle today at Pleasant Hill. The Confederate cavalry and soldiers numbered around 6,000. About 80 union troops were killed and wounded in the battle. The Union troops were able to push them back and set up camp in the town. The wounded were brought into town and the broken limbs were amputated.
This was the first real battle of the Red River Campaign and it was just a small taste of things to come tomorrow.
After a 300-mile march from Brashear City, the men of the 130th Illinois arrived at Pleasant Hill. Along with other regiments in the 13th Army Corps, they were frustrated at the perceived preferential treatment 19th Army Corps received from General Banks. From the time they left Berwick Bay until this afternoon, the 19th Army Corps was at the front of the column which gave them first choice of forage, camp sites, etc. But as soon as the sound of battle was heard, the 19th Army Corps was halted and the 13th Army Corps was sent to the front.
This was the first real battle of the Red River Campaign and it was just a small taste of things to come tomorrow.
After a 300-mile march from Brashear City, the men of the 130th Illinois arrived at Pleasant Hill. Along with other regiments in the 13th Army Corps, they were frustrated at the perceived preferential treatment 19th Army Corps received from General Banks. From the time they left Berwick Bay until this afternoon, the 19th Army Corps was at the front of the column which gave them first choice of forage, camp sites, etc. But as soon as the sound of battle was heard, the 19th Army Corps was halted and the 13th Army Corps was sent to the front.
Wednesday, April 6, 1864
The 130th Illinois Infantry joined the march at 7 o'clock this morning. They were headed towards Shreveport with two day's rations. The came upon the camp of 16th Indiana Mounted Infantry about seven miles outside of town. There was nothing but thick pine woods on either side of the road.
The 130th captured three Confederate prisoners today. The roads were dry and in good shape, and they made good time. They camped this evening in the pine woods about 18 miles from Natchitoches.
A Union cavalryman was shot by the Confederates this evening.
The 130th captured three Confederate prisoners today. The roads were dry and in good shape, and they made good time. They camped this evening in the pine woods about 18 miles from Natchitoches.
A Union cavalryman was shot by the Confederates this evening.
Tuesday, April 5, 1864
The 130th was still encamped at the same location. However, they received orders to be ready to march tomorrow with two day's rations.
The Union Army was now ready to move on to Shreveport, taking the road to the west. General Banks wasn't too concerned about leaving the safety of the river - he was confident the enemy would continue to retreat in front of them, just as they had been doing since the beginningvof the campaign.
The Union Army was now ready to move on to Shreveport, taking the road to the west. General Banks wasn't too concerned about leaving the safety of the river - he was confident the enemy would continue to retreat in front of them, just as they had been doing since the beginningvof the campaign.
Monday, April 4, 1864
The men of the 130th were still encamped near Natchitoches. It was a fine spring day.
Sunday, April 3, 1864
The regiment camped all day near Natchitoches. Gen. Smith’s troops passed by at 2 o'clock. The men of the 130th assume they will move tomorrow.
At this point, the army was moving a little further up the Red River to Grand Ecore. General Banks was already in Grand Ecore, and this is where he would soon make his fateful decision. After conferring with his chief of staff, Banks decided to continue on to Shreveport using a road leading west, away from the safety of the Red River and Admiral Porter’s fleet. There was actually a road that continued to follow the Red River, but Banks was evidently unaware of this fact, and this oversight would seal the fate of his troops.
Leaving the security of the river they would turn westward, following the land between the Red and Sabine Rivers. The landscape consisted of low rolling hills and dense pine woods interrupted only by a few narrow roads. The heavily wooded terrain made the deployment of artillery pieces very difficult. The army's intended route, known as the Old Stage Road, led through the towns of Pleasant Hill and Mansfield on the way to Shreveport.
At this point, the army was moving a little further up the Red River to Grand Ecore. General Banks was already in Grand Ecore, and this is where he would soon make his fateful decision. After conferring with his chief of staff, Banks decided to continue on to Shreveport using a road leading west, away from the safety of the Red River and Admiral Porter’s fleet. There was actually a road that continued to follow the Red River, but Banks was evidently unaware of this fact, and this oversight would seal the fate of his troops.
Leaving the security of the river they would turn westward, following the land between the Red and Sabine Rivers. The landscape consisted of low rolling hills and dense pine woods interrupted only by a few narrow roads. The heavily wooded terrain made the deployment of artillery pieces very difficult. The army's intended route, known as the Old Stage Road, led through the towns of Pleasant Hill and Mansfield on the way to Shreveport.
Saturday, April 2, 1864
The 130th joined the column at 6 o'clock. They got to Natchitoches at 9 o'clock. The Confederates caught three U.S. soldiers, killing one, beating another over the head with a gun, and taking the third prisoner. The 19th Corps passed the regiment, which camped about 3/4 mile from town and stayed there all day. They expect to stay in camp until Monday.
The History of the 77th tells this story of the three men:
The History of the 77th tells this story of the three men:
On the 2d of April, two of the boys from the 48th Ohio, and one from the 24th Iowa, were out foraging. They were caught by the rebel bushwhackers, and one of them shot. Our boys felt very indignant, and especially so, as Gen. Franklin had thrown constant protection around those fellows all along the line of march. And yet the flanks and rear of our army were constantly annoyed by these cowardly sneaks -- men who had not the courage to enlist and fight like soldiers, but stood at their gates and bowed as the army passed, and then, seeking the cover of the brush, acted their mean, contemptible part in the capture or killing of our men.
On some of the residences were placards bearing the inscription: "NEUTRALITY -- FRENCH PROTECTION HERE," and the French flag fluttered in the breeze. But the western boys had been too long in the service to show much respect for "French protection" or "neutrality," and even Franklin's "protection" availed them nothing, for the boys showed their contempt for all such claims, by sets of wholesale destruction as they passed along.The History of the Forty-Eighth Ohio told the story this way:
On the 2d of April, we arrived at Natchitoches, La., 127 miles above Alexandria. During our stay here, one of the soldiers of the 24th Iowa was killed in sight of camp by the rebels. He, with two of our Regiment, Pavy and McCune, of Company D, were just outside the lines, foraging, when they were surprised in a barn by two armed rebels and captured. Being unarmed, they made no resistance.
After tying them loosely together, they were marched back some distance and seated on a log, when the rebels decided to shoot them, and began tying them more securely. The Iowa soldier, who was in the middle, attempted to release himself; whereupon one of their captors fired, killing him instantly.
At this Pavy broke loose and ran for camp, with one of his captors after him, while McCune was knocked down with a musket by the other, who then turned and watched
the race. McCune, in the meantime, recovering, untied himself from his dead comrade, and made good his escape, as did also Pavy, who came into camp almost exhausted. A force of cavalry was sent out and the body of the dead soldier was brought in, and the house and barn burnt.
The two rebels were afterward captured, but claimed they were Confederate soldiers, at home on a furlough. The rebels threatened retaliation if they
were executed, so they were afterwards exchanged.
Friday, April 1, 1864
The regiment joined the march at 8 o'clock this morning. They marched about fifteen miles then camped on the Cane River just five miles from Natchitoches. The regiment captured three Rebel prisoners today. The men expected a fight tomorrow in that town.
As they drew nearer to Shreveport, the men knew a battle was imminent They just weren’t sure when the enemy would make a stand. The Confederates didn’t make their stand at Natchitoches, but things were to change soon, as on April 3rd a fateful decision would be made.
As they drew nearer to Shreveport, the men knew a battle was imminent They just weren’t sure when the enemy would make a stand. The Confederates didn’t make their stand at Natchitoches, but things were to change soon, as on April 3rd a fateful decision would be made.
Thursday, March 31, 1864
The regiment marched at 6 o'clock this morning. They crossed the Cane River again and camped on the opposite bank in a cornfield. They covered about twenty miles today.
Wednesday, March 30, 1864
The regiment stayed in camp all day, as a bridge was down. They had to wait for a new one to be built. Rebel deserters came into their camp and reported the Confederate forces were ten miles ahead and retreating.
Tuesday, March 29, 1864
The regiment marched at 8 o'clock. They came to Pine Woods about 9 o'clock and continued to march until almost sundown. They camped on the banks of Cane River. This was the same ground where the advance troops fought with the Confederate troops earlier today. The rumor was the U.S. troops chased 5,000 Confederates across the river.
The Confederate troops in this area were under the command of General Dick Taylor and General Kirby Smith. They were currently retreating in front of the column of federal troops. Taylor would skirmish with small groups here and there, but he was generally being cautious until promised reinforcements could arrive.
The Confederate troops in this area were under the command of General Dick Taylor and General Kirby Smith. They were currently retreating in front of the column of federal troops. Taylor would skirmish with small groups here and there, but he was generally being cautious until promised reinforcements could arrive.
Monday, March 28, 1864
It began to rain at daybreak today and the regiment started to march at 6 o'clock. It continued to rain until about 9 o'clock.
Sunday, March 27, 1864
The regiment stayed in camp today on Bayou Radpides. The paymaster paid the regiment today. Many of the soldiers took advantage of the day in camp to write letters home.
Saturday, March 26, 1864
The regiment was on the march at 7:30 this morning and reached Alexandria at noon. They camped just above the city on the Bayou Rapides. The soldiers believe they'll stay here until Monday and start for Shreveport. There are a huge number of troops in town.
Alexandria was the meeting place for all of the troops that were to participate in the Red River Campaign, and it was quite a sight to behold. The force assembled at Alexandria was composed as follows: under General Banks, the 19th corps, commanded by General Franklin, a portion of the 13th corps, commanded by General Ransom, and about 5,000 cavalry under General A. L. Lee, making in all from 17,000 to 18,000 men; General A. J. Smith, with 10;000 men, was there from General Sherman' s command; and Admiral Porter was there with a large fleet of iron-clads.
Alexandria was the meeting place for all of the troops that were to participate in the Red River Campaign, and it was quite a sight to behold. The force assembled at Alexandria was composed as follows: under General Banks, the 19th corps, commanded by General Franklin, a portion of the 13th corps, commanded by General Ransom, and about 5,000 cavalry under General A. L. Lee, making in all from 17,000 to 18,000 men; General A. J. Smith, with 10;000 men, was there from General Sherman' s command; and Admiral Porter was there with a large fleet of iron-clads.
Friday, March 25, 1864
The march began this morning at 7 o'clock. The traffic on the road was heavy - Alexandria might not be reached today. They crossed Bayou Mora at 10 o'clock and Bayou Roberts at 1 o'clock. They went into camp at 3 o'clock, about five miles from Alexandria.
Thursday, March 24, 1864
The march began this morning at 7 o'clock. They covered just over 17 miles today. They passed Cheneyville at noon, and then it began raining about 1 o'clock. They camped on Bayou Boeuf, about 18 miles from Alexandria.
Wednesday, March 23, 1864
The march began at 5 o'clock, with the 130th Illinois Infantry in the front. They passed Homesville about noon - a distance of 8 miles. They march until nightfall, making a total of 20 miles today. They camped on Bayou Boeuf.
They were now about 35 miles from Alexandria. They should make it there in two more days.
They were now about 35 miles from Alexandria. They should make it there in two more days.
Tuesday, March 22, 1864
The regiment left Bayou Cantanbleau and went on to Bayou Boeuf. This was about a 12 mile march over bad roads.
Monday, March 21, 1864
The men rested in the morning, and had orders to be ready to march at 2 o'clock. The regiment joined the column at 2 o'clock and continued their northward move.
Sunday, March 20, 1864
The march began this morning at 6 o'clock. The column passed Opelousas at about noon. They saw large crowds of people on the streets. They passed Washington about 2 o'clock, then crossed Bayou Cantanbleau, and camped on the banks near Washington.
Saturday, March 19, 1864
Again this morning the men were on the road at 7 o'clock. They passed Vermillionville and marched north to the battleground at Carencro Paradise and camped for night. It was a good days march and the men endured it very well.
Friday, March 18, 1864
The men were up early again today, and began the march at 6 o'clock. They did not stop for dinner until they went into camp on Vermillion Bayou - a distance of about 18 miles. The wagon train, which generally moved at the rear of an advancing column, did not come into camp until 4 o'clock. They were delayed when a bridge gave way. The wagon train carried all the food, ammunition, supplies, etc., that were needed to support the marching troops.
Thursday, March 17, 1864
The men were up at 5 o'clock and began to march at 7 o'clock. They made it to Iberia about 11 o'clock, but then continued on until about 2 o'clock, when the stopped and set up camp on Clear Lake.
Wednesday, March 16, 1864
The 130th began their march at 6 o'clock this morning. It was a fine, cool day. They march until noon and camped just short of Olivia Landing. They stopped her for the night. Tomorrow they will start at 7 o'clock and march to Camp Pratt.
Tuesday, March 15, 1864
Again today the men of the 130th watched troops pass them by. However, they did get orders to go at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning. Tomorrow should be a fine day for a march to Iberia.
Monday, March 14, 1864
The 130th Illinois still had no orders. But they watched other units passing by all day on their way to the north.
Private John R. Hendricks died today at Camp Butler near Springfield, Illinois. He was from Sangamon County and assigned to Company B.
The 77th Illinois was ahead of the 130th, having started on the march earlier. So, they were the first to receive the "new" tents:
Private John R. Hendricks died today at Camp Butler near Springfield, Illinois. He was from Sangamon County and assigned to Company B.
The 77th Illinois was ahead of the 130th, having started on the march earlier. So, they were the first to receive the "new" tents:
On the 14th of March an event occurred which afforded some amusement. The boys were supplied with what they jocularly called "dog tents." Our first tents were the "Sibley," large enough to accommodate from twelve to sixteen persons. The next was the "wedge" tent, large enough for from four to six.
The "dog," or "shelter" tent consisted of two parts, each about the size of an ordinary blanket, and they could be fastened together with buttons and eyelets. In this way the boys carried their tents with them, each one carrying one part, and by "bunking" together in couples, they were prepared to pitch tents in short order. Either with or without a ridge-pole, and with end stakes and pins to fasten down the sides, and by spreading a rubber blanket over the top and a rubber or other blanket over one end, they could be made quite comfortable.
But they were so small the boys could only occupy a sitting posture. If they wanted to stand up or turn around, they had to go outside for that purpose.
Two objects were accomplished by using this kind of tent. Every soldier carried his shelter with him, and it relieved the command of extra teams to carry camp equipage. In the course of time the boys managed to get at least two each of these tents, and then a heavy rain would not disturb them; and when they remained in camp for a few days at a time, by getting a few boards and elevating the tents, they did finely.
The first night after the dog tents were issued, the boys -- hundreds of them -- it was midnight -- came to the entrance of their tents and barked, representing all the variations of dog music, from the gentle whine of the insignificant cur, to the hoarse voice of the majestic mastiff. This novel and amusing concert was kept up for an hour or more. Of course there could be no sleeping while it lasted. With such pastimes as these the boys varied the tedious monotony of the march, and prepared for the sterner duties of the battle field.
Sunday, March 13, 1864
The weather was nice again today. The regiment had monthly inspections. Fueled by the nice weather, the rumor in camp is that the regiment will move tomorrow.
Thursday, March 10, 1864
Today was another gloomy day, with rain off and on. The regiment did not move today.
Wednesday, March 9, 1864
It rained last night and as the regiment arose, it looked like more rain was on the way. In fact, it started raining about 10 o'clock and continued to rain all day. The regiment stayed in camp at the plantation north of Franklin.
Tuesday, March 8, 1864
The regiment was up early again this morning, arising at 4 o'clock and marching at 6 o'clock. At noon they stopped just beyond Franklin. They continued on for a few miles and the regiment camped on a large plantation. The soldiers assumed they would start for Alexandria very soon.
Monday, March 7, 1864
The regiment was up at 5 o'clock this morning and began marching at 7 o'clock. The men carried their knapsacks on their backs and their rifles on their shoulders.
They marched about 10 miles and stopped and ate dinner a little beyond Pattersonville.
After dinner they marched along the Bayou Teche about another 6 miles before setting up camp for the night. (Many of the rivers in Louisiana are referred to as bayous). This was the first day in a long time the regiment marched any distance, and they were exhausted and slept very well.
Private David I. Harris from Blueville died today in New Orleans. He was assigned to Company D.
They marched about 10 miles and stopped and ate dinner a little beyond Pattersonville.
After dinner they marched along the Bayou Teche about another 6 miles before setting up camp for the night. (Many of the rivers in Louisiana are referred to as bayous). This was the first day in a long time the regiment marched any distance, and they were exhausted and slept very well.
Private David I. Harris from Blueville died today in New Orleans. He was assigned to Company D.
Sunday, March 6, 1864
This afternoon the 130th Illinois Infantry received orders to take two days rations and be ready to march at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning. So much for staying in their present location for some time.
Saturday, March 5, 1864
With no marching orders again today, the men are even more convinced they will be here for an extended stay. The beautiful weather is probably encouraging some of that wishful thinking.
Friday, March 4, 1864
Another beautiful spring day. Still no marching orders, so the companies had drill. Now them men believed they were going to be here for "some time."
Thursday, March 3, 1864
The beautiful weather continued. The regiment still had no orders to march.
Some of the men went foraging in the country. They came back with molasses and sugar. They made cakes out of flour and poured the molasses on top for a tasty meal.
Some of the men went foraging in the country. They came back with molasses and sugar. They made cakes out of flour and poured the molasses on top for a tasty meal.
Wednesday, March 2, 1864
After a cold night, the day began to warm - a typical spring day. The regiment still had no orders to march. They did, however have dress parade.
Tuesday, March 1, 1864
After a rainy morning, the sun came out and it was a fine afternoon. Many men went out and collected weeds to use for bedding - and they looked forward to a good night's rest. They frequently had to make bedding out of any material they could find.
They had yet to receive their marching orders. Leonida H. Bradley believed:
But Shreveport was not the final destination. The strategy was to raise the U.S. flag in Texas by moving up the Red River and then west into Texas. Arrangements were finally made by which General Banks was to furnish for the expedition such troops as could be obtained within his department; General Sherman was to furnish 10,000 men from his command, under General A. J. Smith; General Steele, with a column of 10,000, was to join the expedition at some point on the Red River; and, Admiral Porter was to accompany the expedition with a sufficient naval force.
The 17th of March, 1864, was fixed upon as the time when the naval force and the infantry under General
Banks and General A. J. Smith should meet at Alexandria, on the Red river.
They had yet to receive their marching orders. Leonida H. Bradley believed:
Will leave in a few days, at farthest, will probably go to Alexandria, (Louisiana).The reality was that the soldiers usually knew very little about where they were going. Only the generals and other high-ranking officers really knew much in advance, and even then, plans often changed on a daily, even hourly, basis. We know now that the plan was to take Shreveport, but the men were not yet aware of that strategy.
But Shreveport was not the final destination. The strategy was to raise the U.S. flag in Texas by moving up the Red River and then west into Texas. Arrangements were finally made by which General Banks was to furnish for the expedition such troops as could be obtained within his department; General Sherman was to furnish 10,000 men from his command, under General A. J. Smith; General Steele, with a column of 10,000, was to join the expedition at some point on the Red River; and, Admiral Porter was to accompany the expedition with a sufficient naval force.
The 17th of March, 1864, was fixed upon as the time when the naval force and the infantry under General
Banks and General A. J. Smith should meet at Alexandria, on the Red river.
Monday, February 29, 1864
The regiment was inspected today and then mustered for pay. They received orders to be prepared to march tomorrow or the next day. In preparations for the march the soldiers turned over all of their surplus property.
Many men also took the opportunity to write letters home.
Sunday, February 28, 1864
At sun-up the 130th Illinois, still aboard the "Crescent City" made their way to toward Berwick. The steamer covered the nearly 50 miles and arrived about noon. The regiment went into camp on opposite Brashear City.
Saturday, February 27, 1864
The good weather continued. The men of the 130th woke up this morning and found they were still out in the Gulf with no land in sight. They had slep in the open air again last night, with just their overcoats to keep warm.
By the end of the day they anchored for the night in the mouth of Berwick Bay.
Friday, February 26, 1864
The day finally arrived, and it was beautiful weather. The 130th Illinois Infantry boarded the steamer “Crescent City” at 9'oclock, and were soon on their way to New Orleans. They said farewell to De Crows Point, Texas.
After 12 miles they reach the open waters of the Gulf. The sea was quiet and, like the regiments that left days earlier, the men of the 130th enjoyed a beautiful cruise. However, they did not know if they were going to New Orleans or directly to Berwick Bay.
After 12 miles they reach the open waters of the Gulf. The sea was quiet and, like the regiments that left days earlier, the men of the 130th enjoyed a beautiful cruise. However, they did not know if they were going to New Orleans or directly to Berwick Bay.
Thursday, February 25, 1864
At 10 o'clock this morning the 130th Illinois Infantry received orders to strike their tents. The men were very exciting, think this would finally be the day they would get off this sandbar.
However, they did not go anywhere. Because they had taken down their tents and packed them, they were forced to sleep outside with nothing but their overcoat and a rubber blanket for protection from the night chill.
Pvt Charles H. Newby died today in Vicksburg. He was from Old Ripley and assigned to Company E.
Today the 48th Ohio and 77th Illinois proceeded to Brashear City, where they would begin their march along the Bayou Teche towards the disastrous Red River Campaign.
However, they did not go anywhere. Because they had taken down their tents and packed them, they were forced to sleep outside with nothing but their overcoat and a rubber blanket for protection from the night chill.
Pvt Charles H. Newby died today in Vicksburg. He was from Old Ripley and assigned to Company E.
Today the 48th Ohio and 77th Illinois proceeded to Brashear City, where they would begin their march along the Bayou Teche towards the disastrous Red River Campaign.
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