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About 8 o'clock p.m. a Telegram was
received by Capt. Hubler from Indianapolis ordering the Company
to proceed by the next train to that City and report for duty
at Head quarters. This news was greeted with Cheers by the Boys
who remained in town. The Gun was brought out and handled with
a will and spoke in thunder tones to those in the Country of the
anxiously expected Marching orders. Runners were dispatched in
every direction to notify the men, some of whom lived at a distance
of fifteen to twenty miles from town.
May 5th At 10½ o'clock a.m. the Company met at the
Court House and proceeded to the M.E. Church to attend Services
by Rev. S. N. Campbell. This was very impressive as it was probable
some were enjoying that privilege for the last time. And now as
we were about to go out from our homes to do battle in a cause
so just and so holy we were exhorted to be faithful to the old
Flag and go forth with the assurance that prayers would be daily
offered in our behalf until the country was again at peace and
loved ones would welcome us home to the full enjoyment of those
privileges we were leaving behind us now. The day wore but little
of the appearance of Sunday, everyone appearing anxious to have
all things arranged for our comfort.
At 7 o'clock p.m. Dr. Carpenter in behalf of the Warsaw Sunday
School of the M.E. Church presented to each Member of the Company
a copy of the New Testament. This token of regard from the Children
of Warsaw, was gratefully received by the Men, many of whom, had
for years been accustomed to meeting with this interesting School,
and knew how to appreciate the gift, which though Small, was still
intended and might prove to the recipients, of such value for
time and eternity.
At 11 o'clock p.m. the Company was again formed and marched to
the Depot; when notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather,
hundreds of the Citizens were assembled to bid us "God speed",
and witness our departure. One hour was spent in giving and receiving
advice, words of encouragement or of hope; and the hour of parting
had arrived. Sadly the farewells were Spoken, between Husband
and Wife, Father and Son, Sister and Brother, friends and neighbors,
who had "lived and loved together."
The query that would naturally arise in the minds of each one
was, Who of that Company will pass safely through all the dangers
of a Soldier's life, and return to enjoy the blessings of home
and the society of friends? Who of these young robust men will
return maimed and disfigured to spend the remainder of his life
in pain and perhaps want? The answer to the latter clause can
be answered emphatically, None. For the Citizens of Kosciusko
County would never allow a soldier to want while a penny was at
their command to relieve their want. But another question comes
home to the heart of every volunteer. Whose lot will it be to
bear the dying message of a Husband, a Brother, a Father or son
back to those so anxious for his return? Whose lot to witness
the wild outburst of grief or the mute look of despair of those
loved and loving ones as he gives some token of love from the
lost one; with his dying words? And I believe the prayer fervent
and sincere goes up from each brave heart, "God forbid that
I should have this to do."
Midnight had shrouded all things in impenetrable gloom as if to
veil from the gaze of the curious the partings which were too
sacred to be revealed. In many instances not a word could be heard
as hands were clasped in a silent adieu. Whilst ever and anow
a wild outburst of grief would break on the midnight air only
to be drowned by the soul stirring notes of Martial Music or the
Shrill Whistle of the Iron Horse as he rushed up like the demon
of darkness to bear us away from home and loved ones to mingle
in the wild scenes of a Soldiers life, perhaps never to return
again to home and friends.
At precisely two minutes past midnight we thundered away through
the darkness with visions of "fame and glory" floating
before our eyes, which is only to be driven away by the Stern
reality of War; leaving behind us 5th Sergeant T. C. Lessig who
was unable to accompany us owning to a sudden and very severe
attack of Lung fever, and M. J. Crum, Benj. Cable, S. C. Swank,
C. C. Reynolds, Joel Strieby, and Ephraim Middleton who had not
been apprized of our movements. At Fort Wayne every facility was
afforded us for a speedy journey and at Peru we were joined by
some of the boys who were nearer that place, or found it more
convenient to meet us there on the morning of the 6th of May.
At this place a very exciting race came off between the Iron Horse
and two of the boys who had wandered off through town in Search
of a Breakfast. It resulted however in favor of the Iron Horse
who rushed on, leaving the boys to follow in the next train. We
arrived in Indianapolis at 11½ o'clock a.m. May 6th and
marched through the City to the State House where we were reported
for duty.
We were ordered into camp at Camp Morton where we were provided
with the necessary Cooking utensils and left to learn the ways
of the camp as best we could. The result was that two of the boys
were in the Guard House in less than a half hour, for the violation
of certain rules of which they were ignorant. We were now informed
that some one had ordered us to report who was not authorized
to do so. But we could have a chance of entering the State Service
under the "Six Regiment Bill" which had just been passed,
for a period of One year, Subject to any further requisition which
the President might make on the State for more men. At 6 p.m.
the Company was mustered and this alternative was presented when
4th Sergt. Nelson Bodyston and privates Jno. W. Jennings, E. Black,
H. Staymate, Benj. Cable and George Phillpott refused to go on
these terms, and were dismissed from the company in a perfect
storm of groans. Whereupon the office of 3rd Lieutenant not being
recognized by the army regulations, Andrew S. Milice was appointed
4th Sergeant vice Boydston dismissed.
On the 7th May after three hours drill in the a.m. the Company
was marched to the State house where the oath was administered
by the Hon. Jones to serve for a period of one year unless sooner
discharged. After we returned to Camp the following order was
issued:
Company Order No 1 Indianapolis
May 7th 1861
Privates Benjamin W. Mankin,
George W. Scott, Henry Clayton and Robert S. Richhart are hereby
appointed to the rank of Corporals of this Company and will hereafter
be known and obeyed as Such.
By order of Henry Hubler Capt.
James F. McGuire 1st Sergeant
It may be necessary here to state that the office of ensign to
which R. S. Richhart was elected is not recognized in the army
regulations. Hence the above appointment would in no way conflict
with any office which had ceased to be known.
Wm. S. Hemphill was appointed Secretary of the company and as
such excused from all details for Guard or other duty.
Some of the boys appeared to be learning very fast the tricks
of the soldiers life, as an evidence of their progress two of
them forged a pass to town for which they were allowed to clean
up the quarters.
May the 9th David Leichtenwalter went to the Captain stating
he had not made the necessary arrangements to be absent from his
family a year, and asked to be allowed to go home. He was dismissed
from the Company by Capt. Hubler. The men who had been left behind
when we started from Warsaw had in the meantime reported for duty.
Peter Snyder applied for permission to go into the 10th Regt,
as Bass Drummer, which was granted and he left us to erase his
name from the roll, when instead of going into the Service as
he represented; he returned home after an absence of about two
weeks all covered over with "Glory" except his boots.
Thus far we had occupied a large canvas tent near Head quarters
but we were now informed we would have to vacate immediately and
occupy barracks over by the Commissary department, as the tent
was needed for the 11th Regiment, about to be quartered at Evansville.
The change was made and we took up our position on the east side
of the encampment in rather uncomfortable quarters.
10th and 11th passed in the normal drills without incident worthy
of record, save the constant arrival of Companies. Some of the
Boys are getting tired of Camp life already; while others are
having a general good time. On the 12th N. W. Holt & C. M.
Davis took a notion to visit the city, and finding a hole in the
fence not very well guarded, took a "French Pass." But
on their return they found the game blocked on them, and appointments
were furnished them in the Guard House, where they re mained till
the Captain was apprized of their whereabouts and sent an order
for their release. We had a fair specimen of Camp life to day
as it rained about Constantly from in the morning till night,
and we had to pick our "Grub" out of the water on our
plates. But still every one appeared anxious to make the best
of it and the time passed pleasantly enough.
Still in other Companies there is dissention and difficulties
which in several instances have resulted in the disorganization
of the Companies. The news from home is of such a character as
to cause uneasiness in the minds of those having families on account
of the failure of the subscription list on which it appears too
much reliance had been placed, many persons having in their patriotic
moments subscribed certain sums of money, which on reflection,
assumed a different aspect, and they concluded a man might be patriotic,
serve his country, and keep his family on Eleven dollars per month;
whilst they could make a Show by talking which would be satisfactory
to their own consciences, which had long since been consigned
to the narrowest tomb they could find their own hearts. Whilst
like the Pharrisee they Stand on the corners of the Streets or
in the Synagogue to gain a great name for their loud liberality.
On the 14th May several of the men got out of camp or strayed
off from the Company as we were marching through the City to Camp
Sullivan, where we had been ordered to report for inspection and
Muster into the Service. Arrived in camp it was ascertained there
were not enough of men present to fill the Company and some of
the non-commissioned officers were dispatched to bring in the
Stragglers. After considerable delay enough of the men were got
together and the Company was mustered into the service of the
State for One year unless sooner discharged and the following
Muster Roll placed on file by Col. J. W. Sullivan who gave orders
that every man should deliver up any side arms they might possess
to Capt. Hubler, taking his receipt for the same, which was immediately
done.
Henry Hubler Captain
Andrew P. Gallagher 1st Lieut.
Reuben Williams 2nd Lieut.
James F. McGuire 1st Sergt.
Moore E. Thorn Sergeant
Charles M. Davis Sergeant
Andrew S. Milice Sergeant
Benjamin W. Mankin Corporal
George W. Scott Corporal
Henry Clayton Corporal
Robert S. Richhart Corporal
Thomas L. F. Hubler Drummer
Thompson Holt Fifer
Andrews, Anderson Private
Mathews, William L.
Birt, Beannah T.
Metz, Osker
Birt, George E.
Messner, Peter
Burkett, Daniel H.
Metternich, John
Brumbaugh, Jacob
Middleton, Ephraim
Black, Abraham S.
McClary, Samuel
Beeson, Harmon
Nicely, James M.
Boughter, Samuel
Poulson, Reson N.
Barlow, Edward L.
Parks, Marshall H.
Cowic, Isaac
Riley, Joseph
Conklin, Francis M.
Robbins, Stillman G.
Crum, Martin J.
Rankin, Orlando
Deardorff, John
Rauch, William J.
Deardorff, George
Rea, James O.
Dentzer, George H.
Rockwell, Thomas
Frarey, Presley G.
Southerly, Elias
Funk, Austin C.
Scott, Alfred W.
Griffin, Selah J.
Shorb, Henry J.
Hemphill, William S.
Shaver, Abram L.
Hissong, George W.
Sanderson, John A.
Holt, Noah W.
Sparrow, William H.
Hamlin, Daniel W.
Sloane, Oliver
Hamlin, Samuel R.
Strieby, Joel
Hubler, David
Swank, Samuel C.
Hubler, Oliver
Webster, Edward W.
Huffard, Alonzo W.
Walton, Wilson W.
Hazzard, Lemuel
Westcott, Henry S.
Imel, Thomas
Wagner, Aaron M.
James, Benjamin F.
Wells, Seth J.
Winters, Samuel A.
Wertenberger, Edmond
Wheeler, James S.
Weaver, James H.
Whittaker, William W.
Watts, Orrin
Robert Philpot, William E. Rousseau, Martin L. Stewart, C. C.
Reynolds, J. O. Harvey and Wm. H. Mascum refusing to take the
oath, their names were Stricken from the roll, as was also John
Barton who with Stewart enlisted in the 9th Regt and a few days
afterwards proceeded to Western Virginia.
Our company proves to be the best sized men, that has yet been
mustered into Service, but the conduct of some of the boys on
the occasion of the Muster for Service has had the effect of giving
us rather an awkward position in the eyes of Col. Sullivan which
must be remedied by future good behavior. But on the 15th being
short of provisions the boys were rather wolfish. Complaint was
made at Head quarters when it was ascertained that the Commissary
was playing into his own pocket by withholding part of the rations
we are entitled to.
May 16th The Company was mustered, and proceeded to the
arsenal to draw Arms and instead of the Rifled Musket with which
we were to have been armed, the old Smooth bores altered to Percussion
were issued. Objections were made to receiving such arms, but
we were assured they were only issued to drill with, and that
we never would be asked to enter the field with such arms. Returning
to camp we had our first drill as a Company in the Manual of Arms,
and a more ridiculous sight rarely presents itself than a company
at their first lesson. But "Excelsior" was the motto,
and every man went at it with a determination to be surpassed
by none.
In the evening there was quite an exciting time. The orders were
of a Stringent character, and men who had always enjoyed the privilege
of going and coming as they chose, would not tamely submit to
having the last vestige of liberty taken from them and be watched
and kept as close as a criminal in the Penitentiary. And here
a great mistake is certainly made by those in whom a little authority
is vested, in trying to bring a free, independent and intelligent
man down at one stroke to be a mere machine to move only at his
beck, denying him privileges that have been sacred to him all
his life, and going far beyond what is required or allowed in
the army regulations. The result of such petty tyranny is, to
produce in the minds of free men a feeling of Contempt for such
officers and disregard for even reasonable commands. As was the
case on this occasion, when officers were prohibited from giving
a pass on any pretext, nearly one half of the men in camp broke
over the guard lines as soon as they knew such orders had been
issued; where probably not one in fifty would have wanted to go,
had no such orders been issued. The City Greys had forty
men in the guard house at one time and other companies had about
twenty more at the same time.
On the morning of the 17th an example was made of one man who
had improved the time he was out by getting a little boozy and
as a natural consequence considerably noisy. He was forced to
carry a log weighing about Seventy five pounds on his shoulder,
for a period of one hour, in front of the Guard House; it had
the effect of Sobering him down, when he, with several other delinquents
were compelled to traverse the entire encampment and clean up
all the filth that had accumulated.
May the 18th Henry Clayton, having taken offence at something
of a trifling nature which occurred while he was doing duty as
Corporal "resigned his commission" and took his place
as high Private in the rear rank, to the entire satisfaction of
all in the Company. This gave rise to the following Order:
Company Order
Number 2 Camp Sullivan, In May
18th 1861
Whereas Henry Clayton has this
day tendered the resignation of his Office as a Corporal of this
Company and asks to be placed back in the ranks, his resignation
is accepted and his request granted; and private Samuel Boughter
is hereby appointed a Corporal of this Company and will be hereafter
Known and obeyed as such.
By order of Henry Hubler Capt.
Commdg.
Jas. F. McGuire 1st Sergeant
May 19th The Company having been assigned a position as
Company E of the 12th Regiment of Indiana Volunteers was detailed
for Guard duty to day. And it was a glorious day. The rain came
down in torrents drenching everything completely but the boys
took it as a good Joke and every-thing went off nice.
May 20th On account of the inclemency of the weather the
Company was excused from drill. The roll was called at 6 o'clock
p.m. and some of boys being absent were detailed for extra duty
in the quarters, where it is necessary to have a guard to watch
over the Company property. In the course of the day there was
an alarm of fire in the City; and it was really amusing to see
those who had always been foremost at home on such occasions chaffing
like caged hyenas, because they were cooped up in the camp when
there was work to do with their old enemy. The same thing occurred
on the 21st which was more than flesh and blood could quietly
submit to, and as dense Columns of Smoke and flames rolled up
to view the boys looked a minute and listened when as the hoarse
commands fell on the ear, with a shout of "down on her boys"
they cleared the Guard and fence at a bound and were off to mingle
in the strife with the devouring Element. Some managed to get
in without being caught but a few of the boys were caught and
confined in the Guard House.
Rumors were rife in camp of the disposition about to be made of
the State troops. President Lincoln had made another requisition
for men to be enlisted for three years service and we were informed
we would have to enter the Service for three years or be sent
home without pay. This report is not well received by men who
are willing voluntarily to serve their Country any reasonable
length of time, but would sacrifice everything before they will
be forced into measures. Another little consequence happened to
add fuel to the flames. A few days prior to this, all the bread
had been destroyed by the rain and Lieut. Williams gave the boys
a little change to buy enough bread for breakfast. This morning
a misunderstanding with the Captain with regard to drawing or
dividing the provisions occurred when he claimed he had furnished
money to buy bread for the Company, when they had none and they
were showing their gratitude by the way they are treating him
now and wound up by refusing to sign the requisition for provisions
for the day. Upon inquiry it was ascertained the Captain had furnished
twenty-five cents to buy bread with on the morning in question,
and as no one in the company was willing he should sacrifice so
much for them, the whole amount was made up and tendered to the
Captain with thanks for his disinterested generosity. This he
said he considered was done for the purpose of insulting him;
but was assured that it was only done to make good the amount
he had expended for the benefit of the Company, lest it might
result in financial trouble to himself. It is only necessary to
say the requisition was signed without more trouble.
"Trouble never comes single handed," is an old adage.
And scarcely had this little matter been disposed of ere the news
was received of the refusal of Governor Morton to recognize the
Field Officers of the Regiment as chosen, on account of their
Conflicting with the appointment of some of his own personal friends
to positions of trust and profit. All of the Commissioned officers
now waited upon the Governor and during their absence there was
quite a number of the men concluded they had urgent business up
town, and went out on French Passes.
At 4 o'clock p.m. orders were issued from Headquarters to call
the companies together and report the names of all the absentees
at headquarters. Upon calling the roll, Corporal Mankin, Privates
Frarey, Rankin, Burkett, Jno. Deardorff, Nicely, D. Hamblin, Rauch,
S. R. Hamlin, Sanderson, O. Hubler, Funk, B. Birt, G. Birt, Wheeler
& Rockwell were reported absent without leave.
During the evening all the absentees managed to get back past
the Guard without being caught except Mankin, Rankin, Rauch and
Funk, who were confined in the Guard House. The capture of Mankin
came near leading to a serious difficulty with Capt. Gillespie's
Company from New Albany, a detachment of which was acting as Patrol.
It appears they had a little trouble in taking "Jack"
and had brought him to the Gate when he escaped. They caught him
a second time and brought him to the Gate when he attempted the
same game, but on a second trial they were looking for it and
he was balked. He then became rather boisterous and when the Guard
went to take him in Custody he showed fight and in fussing around
he either struck his hand against a bayonet, or one of the Guard
thrust it at him. Be this as it may, he received a bayonet wound
in his hand; which taken in connection with the cowardly abuse
of Capt. Gillespie, after he had been taken, came near making
a general fight between the two Companies. This difference was
not mended any the next day, when Capt. Gillespie had "Jack"
arrested for answering him when he stooped so low the previous
morning as to abuse a prisoner. Jack was taken to the Guard House
again and the Captain proceeded to head quarters and had him released.
At 8½ o'clock a.m. the Company was mustered when General
Order No. 9 was read, in which Commanders of Companies were required
to lay the matter of an enlistment for three years before their
respective commands and report the number and names of all who
would manifest a desire to enlist for that period. Upon taking
the vote not a man voted in favor of the proposition, but the
following resolution was passed without a dissenting voice, viz:
"Resolved that we non-Commissioned
officers and Privates of Company E of the 12th Regiment of Indiana
Volunteers, Stand firm to the present term of enlistment for
one year, and will take into consideration no proposals to enlist
for any longer term, until the expiration of that time. Serving
faithfully the State of Indiana or the Federal Government during
that time, at any time or in any place, State or Territory that
our services may be required. And we further pledge ourselves
that if at the expiration of our present term of enlistment our
services are needed by the Government or the State of Indiana,
we hold ourselves ready to respond to any demand that may be
made on us as soldiers."
The reason this answer was made to the proposal to make the service
for three years was this. Could the entire company go for that
length of time it would be all right. But should only part of
the Company go, either they or the men that remained in the state
service would have to go under strange officers as it was designed
to consolidate the Companies in the three years service by filling
the companies up with the smallest companies to the regular Standard
of one hundred and one men, whilst the fragments of Companies
left in the state service would be thrown together to fill up
such as had lost men by the three years enlistment. Consequently
we resolved as a Company to Keep together. And we were backed
up in this resolution by several other companies.
While there was a general disorganizing and reorganizing going
on all around us, the effects are to be seen in Company H of our
own regiment, which is composed of fragments of two or three companies
thrown together and gives rise to hard feelings and jangling all
the time, while it had been remarked often that there is good
feeling and harmony existing between the members of our own and
also of Companies G and F. Thus the Six Regiments of troops organized
under the auspices of the State of Indiana for one years Service;
dwindled down to two Regiments, the 12th and 11th which have been
Slandered and Misrepresented both at home and abroad for doing
what the other four Regiments have no doubt often wished they
had done. Not because they have refused to go out of the State
as was stated to their prejudice; but because those who were raised
together and played together and started out with the expectation
of fighting the battles of their Country together, and if permitted
to return to their homes, desired to return as they went, as one
Company.
Because they were not willing to be separated, and thrown among
Strangers, under the Command of Strange officers. This was the
reason and the only reason of the passage of those resolutions
and the refusal to enlist for a longer period than one year. No
body of men was ever mustered in the State of Indiana, or elsewhere,
that was more willing and anxious to be taken to any place in
the civilized world, where their services might benefit their
Country, and their presence protect the Stars and Stripes than
the men composing Company E and I believe I am safe in saying
also the entire 12th Regiment. And I think if ever they are placed
in a position in which they may be tried, their conduct will be
such as to confirm my belief.
May 24th 73 reported for duty. Poulson, James, Sparrow
& Webster Sick. Mathews, Rankin, Burkett, T. Holt, S. R. Hamlin,
Walton, A. W. Scott and Parks were absent from drill at 9 a.m.
Imel reported for extra duty for not getting into ranks. Strieby,
Swank, Crum and Watts were detailed for duty in quarters; and
Metz and Wagner as Patrol.
We were favored today with a Grand Review of the five Regiments
of Indiana Volunteers, who are about to Start for the Seat of
War. The review was conducted by Gov. Morton, Gov. Dennison of
Ohio and Major Genl. Geo. B. McClelland of the U.S.A. and was
a grand and imposing sight. The troops executed the different
evolutions in fine style and the display was witnessed by thousands
of the Citizens who no doubt feel a glow of pride at the promptness
with which the Call is met.
May 25th T. Holt, J. Sanderson and Whittaker were not present
at Reveille call. Sparrow reported sick. Beeson and Burkett filed
the Surgeon's certificate, and were excused from drill for the
day. Frarey and Funk were detailed as Patrols. Jno. Deardorff,
O. Hubler and Dentzer were absent at Tattoo. Sloane lame. In the
evening the Company went to the river to wash, and it was a very
strange Sight to see them march down through the City each with
a little bundle of Clothes under his arm to try the virtues on
the difference between the life of a Soldier and the life of a
Washwoman.
May 26th The troops in Camp were formed in open order and
inspected by Col. Sullivan, who passed Slowly in front and rear
of each rank with his eagle eye noticing the least appearance
of carelessness, pointing it out to the Company Commander with
instructions to have, one have his hair and Beard trimmed, another
his hair Combed, another his hands or face washed and so on throughout
the entire ranks. And to the credit of Company E, but one or two
were pointed out, they having longer hair than was deemed proper.
In the evening a man in our Regiment getting rather dry undertook
to pass the Guard and jump the fence (a picket) in order to obtain
a portion of the beverage, to warm up and enliven his zeal in
the good Cause. (Liquors being excluded from the encampment) and
succeeded in passing the Guard; but in jumping the fence, he caught
his foot in the pickets, fell and broke his thigh. He was conveyed
to the Hospital to receive the proper treatment and repent at
his leisure his disobedience of orders, and inordinate love of
"Forty Rod" which placed him in this painful condition.
May 27th 5¼ a.m. Mankin, Barlow, Rauch, Conklin,
Walton, Sparrow, Messner, Hazzard, Webster, Metz, B. Birt, A.
W. Scott, Richhart absent from Roll Call. Griffin and D. Hubler
were detailed for Patrol duty. Lieutenant Williams was reported
Sick. In the evening some of the boys were so unfortunate as to
get into the Guard House for going without leave, to promenade
on the Commons with some of the fairy like creations of doubtful
character, who were Strolling around seeking whom they might entice
from the rank and file of Uncle Sam's Army.
May 28th 5¼ a.m. The Captain and Lieutenant Gallagher
and privates Shorb and Parks were not present at roll call. In
the afternoon the Company received a Supply of Shirts, Shoes and
Socks which were very much needed. At Tattoo the Captain, Jno.
Deardorff, Nicely and Parks were not present.
May 29th 5¼ a.m. Mettervich was reported sick. Hissong,
Sanderson, Rea, Geo. Deardorff, Messner and Poulson were detailed
as a Picket Patrol. Parks was put on extra duty for neglecting
roll calls. Rea, McClary and S. R. Hamlin volunteered their services
as a Patrol. In the evening the company was marched to the Depot
to witness the departure of the 10th Regiment for Western Virginia,
but were disappointed as the Regiment did not leave till the following
Morning. Upon returning to the Camp it was ascertained that Andrews,
Rauch, Funk, Boughter, Metz, Shaver and Parks had resolved to
improve the time and opportunity by Stepping from the ranks and
seeking a solace for disappointment in the gay and festive scenes
of the City. During the night the absentees all managed to get
back to their quarters, except two, Rauch and Metz, who having
mingled too much "Bourbon" with their enjoyments failed
to make the connextion and brought up in the Guard House instead.
Where they were reported in the morning of May 30th 5¼
a.m. Crum, Jno. Deardorff, Andrews and Parks were absent at roll
call and Mettervich was reported Sick. We went out today at 10
o'clock a.m. on our first Battallion drill, which was enjoyed
by all as it was something new. Dress Parade in the evening.
May 30th The Company received today per express a donation
of Tobacco and other articles of luxury or use from the Citizens
of Warsaw; the receipt of which was timely indeed, as the boys
are generally Complaining of a wonderful depression in the "Money
Market." A series of resolutions in which the thanks of the
Company was tendered to the Citizens of Warsaw for their generous
donation was adopted and a copy of the same placed in the hands
of Lieut. Williams to be forwarded to the Northern Indianian for
publication, but being by him misplaced, they were never sent;
consequently the receipt of the articles was not ack nowledged.
At Tattoo Richhart was absent. Watts, Cowic, Wheeler and A. W.
Scott were on extra Patrol duty.
May 31st Funk was reported absent at Reveille and Cowic
in the Guard House for Sleeping on his post; where he was allowed
to remain all day. Metternich reported Sick. The company was not
on Camp Guard to day. Boughter and Mankin Corporals on duty in
quarters. Riley, Crum, Clayton and D. W. Hamlin were detailed
to Guard the quarters. Rankin, Jno. Deardorff, D. Hubler and Rockwell
were a Special detail for Camp Guard. Frarey and Funk reported
Absent at Tatoo.
June 1st 1861 Reveille at 5¼ a.m. Cowic reported
absent, Metternich Sick. Brumbaugh, Frarey and Cowic were detailed
for extra duty. Poulson regular in quarters. There was considerable
excitement in Camp today on account of a report being Circulated
to the effect that the State Troops were to be disbanded and sent
home without any pay for the time they had spent drilling; which
report was varied to suit the whims of the different narrators
until it produced so much excitement Several of the Companies
took a vote not to drill or do any service of any Kind until paid,
or at least till such time as they could be assured the State
would make provisions for their payment. Company E, having started
out to defend the Government, felt willing to trust it to that
extent and continued on in the usual exercises as prescribed for
the government of the Camp and probably gained credit thereby.
In the afternoon the Company was allowed to go to the river to
do up some washing, and the men were assured they could have all
the afternoon for that purpose. But they scarcely had commenced
their work when they were ordered back to camp, leaving four behind
who were ordered to be arrested on their return to Camp. This
order was not enforced as they would not go into Camp unless the
order was Countercommanded which was finally done to save trouble.
June 2nd Mankins, Poulson, Walton, Sparrow, Cowic, Funk,
Hazzard, Parks, Webster and A. W. Scott were not present at Reveille
Call. Shaver having been too free with the use of the "Spirits"
was ordered to the Guard House by the Captain where he was reported
at Reveille. The company was on guard duty today which for a wonder
proved to be a very pleasant one. It being Sunday some of the
City Pastors favored us with their presence. About one hundred
men continued to stroll around through camp after the call for
Services had been sounded and showed no disposition to countenance
religious services in Camp. Whereupon a guard was detailed and
all the Stragglers were Conducted to the area in front of the
Head quarters and formed in two ranks, where they were compelled
to remain Standing whilst the services were conducted without
interruption in the Shady part of the Camp. The punishment was
severe as the heat was very oppressive, but was necessary to preserve
good order.
June 3rd Harmon Beeson filed the Surgeon's certificate
to the effect that his Constitution was not sufficiently robust
to endure the hardships and privations of a Soldier's life; and
received an honorable discharge from the Service, and started
for home. The Secretary immediately wrote for Lessig who had recovered
from the illness which had prevented his accompanying the Company
when it left home, and had reported himself through the mail as
ready to report for duty at any time.
In the afternoon a very exciting and amusing incident occurred.
It was as follows: Andrews had been absent on a "French Pass"
and on his return Scaled the fence and landed face to face with
a Guard, who as soon as he could collect his thoughts called for
the Corporal. Scarcely had he made the Call when Andrews not wishing
to take up lodgings in the Guard House, broke past him and Started
for the quarters. The Guard in violation of orders started in
pursuit while the Corporal and his squad aimed to cut off his
retreat, jumping about ten feet every jump, looking back about
every step, with his hair streaming in the wind (having lost his
hat). Andrews was cheered on by the boys, reached his quarters,
changed his dress and sat very cooly looking at the Guard who
was searching for him in every corner led on by Capt. Gillespie.
G. E. Birt, having enjoyed the fun was laughing about it, when
the Captain, feeling indignant at the boys for laughing, ordered
Birt's arrest for contempt, took him to the Guard House where
he was immediately released by orders of Capt. Hubler.
During the day intelligence was received of the decease of the
Hon. Stephen A. Douglas, who although he had many political enemies,
had by his bold and patriotic defense of the union won the esteem
of every true friend of the Federal Government. The Flags were
displayed at half mast and a feeling of Sadness prevailed all
bosoms at the fall of another good Patriot and Statesman.
But this feeling was soon dispelled as the news flashed across
the wires of the noble conduct of the "Hoosier boys"
in their first fight in Western Virginia. The first stroke has
been made whereby the Stain of Buena Vista is to be forever eradicated
from the escutcheon of our noble State, and Indiana shall yet
point to as bright a record of noble deeds in defence of the Country
as any of her sister states and the record will be the brighter
for the shade in the background of her history. The news was received
with the wildest enthusiasm. Cheer after Cheer was given and Hats
in wild confusion filled the air. It were but folly to attempt
to quiet the noise of voices raised in triumphant Shouts and worse
than folly to try to describe the Scene. The boys were allowed
to enjoy it till they became hoarse and then they "gathered
around for a dance on the ground to the sound of the old violin."
June 4th Robert S. Richhart was reported Sick at Reveille
call. Corporal B. W. Mankin was guilty of some misdemeanor today
and having frequently violated the rules by passing the guard,
refusing or neglecting to discharge the duties assigned him, and
been impertinent when reproved the Captain concluded he would
not be annoyed any further and ordered him back to the ranks,
nominating at the same time Peter Messner as Corporal to fill
the vacancy. Mankin with promises of amendment prevailed on the
Captain to try him once more and the order was sup pressed.
Corp. Boughter, Southerly, Mathews, Wells and Burkett were detailed
for duty in quarters. Andrews, Riley, Griffin and Hissong for
Patrol duty. We were informed to day that within a few days we
would receive our uniforms, and be sent to some other point, probably
to Evansville on the Ohio river. This news is received with acclamations
of joy, as we have been confined in this prison nearly a month
and some of the boys are getting impatient for work. At Tattoo,
Lieut. Williams, Sergeants McGuire, Thorne, Davis and Milice and
private A. W. Scott were absent with leave. Mankin, Hubbard, Rauch,
Shorb and N. W. Holt were absent without leave and were detailed
for extra duty.
June 5th Reveille call Parks was reported asleep. Davis
sick; Andrews and Nicely absent. After drilling some time the
Company was marched up to the City and equipped in a Suit of Grey
Jeans, which from the texture is not made of the finest of wool,
but presents a very decent appearance. Several of the boys got
so elated over their improved appearance that they could scarcely
get back to camp. Having Sponged their uniform with Bourbon. At
Tattoo Frarey, Robbins, D. Hubler, Funk, Hazzard, and Webster
were absent. After the roll call 1st Sergt. McGuire, feeling considerably
elated, undertook to put the Company through the facings, but
the boys thinking they had enough of drill in day light, broke
ranks and retired to their quarters, for which McGuire was going
to have them all arrested, and took his musket to make the arrests.
When the Captain made his appearance to quiet the disturbance,
McGuire was rather excited and the Captain ordered him to retire.
This he would not do. He was then arrested and ordered to the
Guard House, but insisted on the Captain receiving the Books and
papers belonging to the company from him before he would consent
to go. The Captain informed him he would take care of the company
property and would find some one who was not in the habit of getting
intoxicated to attend to the duties of 1st Sergt. McGuire was
then conducted to the Guard House and quiet restored.
June 6th The following order was issued:
Company Order
No. 5 Camp Sullivan June 6th 1861
Whereas a vacancy exists in the office of 1st Sergeant of this
Company (E) of the 12th Regiment of Indiana Volunteers, I hereby
recommend and appoint private William S. Hemphill to said office
and he will be hereafter be Known and obeyed as such.
Signed Henry Hubler Capt.
Appointment approved by the Company.
The company went out to the Commons for our first Skirmish Drill.
The Colonel came around in the evening and informed us we should
be ready to march by the 10th. This was cheering news to all.
At Tattoo Cowic, Hubler, Baughter, and G. W. Scott were reported
absent.
June 7th Frarey and Funk absented themselves without leave
all day to attend a Horse race and on their return in the evening
were arrested and confined in the Guard House by order of the
Captain.
Certain reports having been circulated at home prejudicial to
the Commissioned officers of the Company in which it was asserted
that the company had been illtreated in the distribution of provisions
by the officers and inquiries having been made by our friends
as to the truth of such reports; a series of resolutions were
adopted by a unanimous vote of the company denying emphatically
the truth of such reports and branding as a liar and mischief
maker the person or persons who put such reports in circulation.
A copy of these resolutions was placed in the hands of Lieut.
Williams to be forward for publication but were mislaid and never
sent out.
June 8th At reveille 70 reported for duty; 2 in Guard House,
1 asleep and 2 on duty, 1 sick in quarters. Thomas C. Lessig reported
for duty and was enrolled to fill the vacancy occasioned by the
discharge of Rough and Ready Beeson.
In the afternoon the regiment had a grand parade through the principal
streets of the city and elicited much praise for the proficiency
in drill and the size of the men which is said to be the best
average of any yet organized in the state.
June 9th 72 present at reveille: 4 asleep, D. W. Hamlin
Sick. A call was made for four men for camp guard. Wagner was
detailed on extra duty. Poulson, Clayton and Southerly regular.
The last two not being very well, Metz and Griffin volunteered
to fill their places.
June 10th As we were ordered to march on the 11th orders
were issued from Head quarters to issue no more passes to any
member of the 12th Regt. This was ill timed as men will take liberty
if possible to get it. The result of this order was that over
one third of the fence was destroyed around the encampment and
the Camp was nearly deserted. At Tattoo we had 57 men present,
the balance having gone up town on urgent business. The order
was a piece of folly tyranny wholly uncalled for and only brought
about what it was designed to prevent. While it led the men to
believe the officers had not the confidence in them, they should
have. The morning came and such a sight as presented itself is
seldom seen.
Geese and Chickens appeared to have rained down during the night.
Every place one would turn the same grand display of Fowls of
all sizes, ages and kinds presented itself. The boys were passing
the guard lines at will and every one appeared to be perfectly
independent. During the day the company was fitted out with Haversacks,
Canteens in preparatory to their march. At 4 p.m. the roll was
called and all reported present and at 6 p.m. we took up our line
of march for the Depot through the streets of the City which were
lined with Spectators and presented a lively scene while the ladies
with smiles, tears and blessings reminded us that we were not
to be forgotten by the fair ones at least. After some delay at
the Depot we got started for Evansville via Terre Haute.
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