Wintertime Blues
From the editor: With the major armies of the Union and the Confederacy secure in winter quarters more news is being made behind the lines than at the front. In the North the adoption of a pro-Union constitution in Arkansas and the death, at age thirty-six, of composer Stephen Foster. Although best known for his ‘Ethiopian-style’ songs, like Old Black Joe, De Camptown Races, and My Old Kentucky Home, Foster was from Pennsylvania. The Cleveland Plain Dealer wrote: "The name of Stephen C. Foster has become identified with the most touching melodies in our language. It is no exaggeration to say that his songs and ballads are sung with delight all over the globe." The papers are filled with ominous news from Richmond. Not only is Vice President Alexander Stephens suffering from a serious kidney ailment, but President Davis' life was put in jeopardy by a suspected arson attempt. Fortunately for Davis the fire, which started in the basement of the presidential mansion, was spotted before any major damage occurred. One of Davis' servants fled the scene and an employee of the War Department was arrested as a suspect in the blaze. There was bad news in Charleston, South Carolina, as well where a huge fire destroyed nearly 3,000 bales of precious cotton. The cotton destroyed in the fire, also believed to be set by an arsonist, was valued at over $2 million dollars. While many believe that the fires were started by local black slaves, under the influence of Yankee spies and infiltrators, it is much more likely that the arsonists were Southerners disenchanted with the war. This sentiment is echoed in an antiwar editorial published by William Holden’s Raleigh Standard. "The people of North Carolina will take their affairs into their own hands.... North Carolina will not be the slave of either the Congress in Richmond or Washington. She is...the keystone of the Confederate arch. If that stone would fall, the arch would tumble."
January 17 1864 (Sunday)
Former divisional commander Lafayette McLaws renews his protest over being relieved by District of East Tennessee commander James Longstreet. He writes: “I object to being put forward as a blind to draw attention away from the main issue, which is the conduct of the campaign in East Tennessee under General Longstreet. I assert that the enemy could have been brought to an engagement before reaching Knoxville; that the town, if assaulted at all, should have been on the first day we arrived, or on the next at farthest; that when the assault was made on Fort Loudon it was not called for by any line of policy whatever; but, on the contrary, no good results could possibly have been attained.” McLaws is particularly upset that Longstreet waited until he had returned to Augusta, Georgia, before lodging charges against him. McLaws continues: “Before leaving I addressed a note to his headquarters inquiring the reason why the order was issued, and the reply was that, having exhibited a want of confidence in the plans and efforts of General Longstreet throughout the campaign...and as he could not leave himself, I was ordered to do so. This was the sole reason assigned at that time, and yet after my departure a charge of neglect of duty, with three specifications, was forwarded to your office against me.... As it is now you can perceive the disadvantages I am laboring under. I must therefore demand that the charges be investigated at an early day by a court of inquiry or court-martial, or they be withdrawn and I restored to duty at once.”
Report of Maj. Gen. Lafayette McLaws, C.S. Army, commanding division.
I received from General Longstreet's headquarters a copy of a charge preferred against myself.... I beg leave to remark concerning the charge and specifications: I merely assert that the Seventeenth Mississippi...and Phillips (Georgia) Legion...were selected to lead, and did lead, the assaulting columns, and they, as well as all others, were ordered to take the work and hold it against all comers until I arrived to direct otherwise. My orders were to take the works; that was all for the assaulting column to do.... I am at a loss to conceive as to what definite instructions further than those I gave could have been given, as the inside of the work was an unknown quantity.... In regard to the men not being supplied with ladders or other means of crossing the ditch, I was assured by General Longstreet himself, and by members of his staff who made observations of the work from the heights around on both sides of the river...that there was no ditch that offered any great obstacle. I was pertinaciously pressed with the fact that there would be but little difficulty, so far as the ditch was concerned, in entering the work, and I endeavored to impress the fact upon the men, and in connection with it urged them to rush to the assault with impetuosity and without halting.... I, however, contemplated getting bundles of wheat for the men to carry, and therewith fill up the ditch if one was found offering a serious impediment to our advance; but there was not a sufficient quantity available for the purpose where I expected to find it. As for ladders, I had no means, or time, or material to make any.... If General Longstreet...had considered that ladders, or other means for crossing the ditch, were necessary, I suppose he would have made some mention of them at least on some occasion. I should think it was his place to order them. His omission to do either looks very strange, when he charges me with being criminally negligent in not getting them. It is an easy matter after the assault is over to see where errors have been committed; but of those I am charged with, where there was any in fact, I do not consider myself responsible, and hold myself unjustly charged…. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
L. McLAWS, Major-General.
Army of the Tennessee commander William ‘Cump’ Sherman travels to Vicksburg, Mississippi, to confer with James B. McPherson, 17th Corps, and finalize his plans for the Meridian raid. Sherman writes: “I believe we now have at our disposal here and at Memphis an available force adequate to break the enemy's railroad communication with the State of Mississippi. I mean to break up the railroad at Meridian and as far east as Demopolis. I propose to go back to Memphis, and... start a force of cavalry of about 7,000, under command of... [William Sooy Smith, Chief of Cavalry,] to move from La Grange, via Ripley, Pontotoc, and Columbus, down to Meridian, following substantially the Mobile & Ohio Road, breaking it at numerous points. At the same time I will embark two divisions of infantry of the Sixteenth Corps, under... [Stephen Hurlbut, 16th Corps].” Only General-in-Chief Henry W. Halleck seems to have concerns about Sherman’s proposed project. He writes to Grant: “It would seem from General Sherman's dispatch to me that he proposes to move with all his disposable force on Meridian and perhaps on Selma.... I fear that Sherman's views are based upon the supposed condition of affairs in East Tennessee when he left Knoxville. I do not wish to change any instructions you may have given to him; I merely desire to call attention to Sherman's proposed movements in connection with the present position of the enemy and his probable operations this winter and the coming spring."
CONFIDENTIAL.
HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D.C., January 17, 1864.
Major-General GRANT, Nashville: The rebels seem to be making the most desperate efforts for the next campaign. Almost every man, of whatever age, capable of bearing arms, is being pressed into their ranks, and by spring their armies will be very considerably increased. Our people, on the contrary, are acting on the mistaken supposition that the war is nearly ended, and that we shall hereafter have to contend only with fragments of broken and demoralized rebel armies. Such is the tone of the public press and of the debates in Congress.... It is therefore very probable that our military force in the spring may be relatively much smaller than it now is. Under these circumstances it seems very important that we should act with caution and keep our troops well in hand.... My opinion has been, and still is, that all troops not required to hold our present positions in Virginia and on the Atlantic coast should be sent to you and... [Nathaniel P. Banks, Department of the Gulf,] for operations this winter and as preparatory to a spring campaign.... I fear that the unexpected condition of affairs in East Tennessee will prevent the accomplishment of these objects, or at least a part of them, this winter, and that we must soon prepare for a spring campaign. The furloughing of so many troops has greatly reduced our forces in the north, but I hope to send some more to General Banks.... I leave it entirely to your judgment to determine how, and to what extent, such assistance can be rendered. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H.W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. J.B. McPherson reports “the posts at Milliken's Bend and Goodrich's Landing [Louisiana] will be broken up and the troops transferred to another location.”
2. P.H. Sheridan builds “a bridge of wagons at the bend” at the French Broad River near Dandridge, Tennessee. Unfortunately, “at dark” Sheridan discovers he is “on an island.” He reports: “They made a firm assault on our whole line.... Our loss was severe.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. James Longstreet moves “a part of [Hood's] division” against the U.S. left flank near Dandridge, Tennessee.
January 18 1864 (Monday)
When John G. Parke, Ninth Corps, discovers that a strong Confederate force has advanced across French Broad River, he decides to retreat from his position near Dandridge, Tennessee. He reports: “There is no doubt but that Longstreet's whole force is immediately in our front... They advanced on us this evening.... I shall fall back on Strawberry Plains.” His commander John G. Foster, Department of the Ohio, informs Ulysses S. Grant of the unexpected withdrawal. “Generals Parke and [Gordon Granger’s Fourth Corps] have been forced to fall back from Dandridge before Longstreet. I shall concentrate on this place (Knoxville). It is impossible to retire farther...without sacrificing one-half of our artillery and forces.... If we are besieged here a relieving force can advance up the Tennessee.” With Grant away in Nashville, Henry Halleck sends urgent orders to Army of the Cumberland commander George H. Thomas in Chattanooga: “Please give particular attention to the situation of General Foster's army in East Tennessee, and give him all the aid which he may require and you may be able to render. The line of Knoxville and Cumberland Gap must be maintained at all hazards.”
WASHINGTON, D.C., January 18, 1864.
Major-General GRANT, Nashville or Chattanooga: Your last telegram...has caused new anxiety here in regard to our position in East Tennessee. As I have before remarked, the holding of that country is regarded by the President and Secretary of War of the very greatest importance, both in a political and military point of view, and no effort must be spared to accomplish that object. While we hold Chattanooga and the passes of the mountain range which separates East Tennessee from Georgia and North Carolina, the enemy cannot molest Kentucky or Tennessee.... Every possible effort should be made to increase the supplies at Chattanooga and to open and protect the line from that place to Knoxville.... General Thomas seems to fully appreciate the importance of increasing the means of transportation between Nashville and Chattanooga and thence to Knoxville, and [Colonel Daniel C. McCallum, Superintendent of Military Railroads,] has full powers from the Secretary of War to repair and improve these lines and to increase the rolling-stock. The matter will also, no doubt, receive your personal attention. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H.W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
When the Confederate Army of Tennessee commander Joe Johnston decides to begin issuing rations of whisky to the men in his army, John F. Cummings, Major and Commissary of Subsistence, is given the task of securing the necessary contracts and licenses from the State of Georgia. Governor Joseph E. Brown angrily responds: “The laws of Georgia will not tolerate any such consumption of grain by distillation as you propose. When the country is so hard pressed for bread I shall order the prompt prosecution of every man who runs a still without a license from the State, and I shall grant no license to stills in Upper Georgia.” Even when Cummings assures Brown that he proposes to use only “the corn of the tax in kind belonging to the Government” for making whisky, Brown is opposed to the project. Brown continues: “The ownership of the corn has nothing whatever to do with the question. You seem to think that because the corn is tithe corn the Government agents may distill it in violation of the criminal laws of the State without guilt.... You say the demand for whisky for the army is heavy. I reply, the demand for bread in the army and at home is much greater. One thing is very certain, there is not corn enough in the country to furnish the people and the army with rations of bread and whisky. One or the other must be dispensed with, and in my judgment no man connected with the arm...can hesitate to decide in favor of bread.” Cummings continues with his argument. “My contracts altogether thus far would not consume over 3,000 bushels of corn per month, a large portion of which will be refuse and weevil-eaten and wholly unfit for bread or stock feed. I expect to feed Government stock, hogs and cattle, with the slops, which are better for them than the corn before distillation. My object in all cases is to use corn not fit for bread, and as far as possible place distilleries in localities where it could not be moved out and would be destroyed and lost to the Government.”
OFFICE OF CHIEF DISTRICT COMMISSARY, Atlanta, Ga., January 18, 1864.
His Excellency JOSEPH E. BROWN, Milledgeville, Ga.: I have just returned from the front, where I have held a consultation with General Johnston about feeding the army. In the frequent want of animal food he has determined to issue rations of whisky, and to do this it is necessary for me to make contracts for the same in large quantities. I have already made several, and in all cases require contractors to furnish me the entire product of the grain turned over to them. My object in addressing you is to ascertain if, under the statutes of the State, any other steps are necessary to enable my contractors to carry out their agreements. Please answer at your earliest convenience, as the demands upon me for whisky are urgent and beyond my present means of supply. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J.F. CUMMINGS, Major and Commissary of Subsistence.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. The U.S. War Department offers an extra bounty of $300 to all enlisted men in the Regular Army who re-enlist before March.
2. R.O. Tyler, Tyler’s Division, reports “20 Rebels attacked the picket at Flint Hill [Virginia], but were driven off after a single volley.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. From Savannah, Georgia, G.T. Beauregard reports “all quiet.” He writes: “Nothing seen of enemy's fleet, which left Hilton Head few days since.”
2. A C.S. force “ambushed a detachment of the Mississippi Marine Brigade” near Grand Gulf, Mississippi, “taking four prisoners.”
January 19 1864 (Tuesday)
Army of Northern Virginia commander Robert E. Lee celebrates his fifty-seventh birthday by renewing his efforts to get his hungry and tattered army fed and clothed. He writes to Secretary of War James A. Seddon: “The supply of subsistence for the army is a matter of vital moment, and is now the chief subject of anxiety to me. I am using every means in my power to meet the wants of the troops..., but my efforts have not been attended with the success I hoped for.” Still opposed to impressment, Lee believes that “there is a great amount of subsistence in the hands of the people.” He continues: “If we had coin to offer for provisions I believe that enough would come forward.... Private enterprise would thus be stimulated to collect supplies inaccessible to the purchasing and impressing officers, and the spirit of avarice that is now the worst enemy of the country would be enlisted in its service.” Lee also writes to Valley Commander Jubal Early about procuring supplies for the army. “I hope that you will bear in mind the great importance of obtaining supplies of subsistence for the army.... I am informed...that there are many cattle in that region still which might be obtained, and which we should spare no effort to get.”
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA, January 19, 1864.
Brig. Gen. [Alexander] R. LAWTON, Quartermaster-General, Richmond, Va.: I fear that unless great efforts are made the return of the season of active operations will find a large number of the men barefooted. It is the opinion of the quartermaster of this army that if we were supplied with tools and materials, from one-third to one-half of the army could be shod by the system of brigade shoemakers.... I am satisfied that this system can be made an important auxiliary of the department, and am anxious that some measure may be devised to procure leather in sufficient quantities.... If this leather cannot be had in any other way it should be impressed. But before resorting to impressment I would much prefer to resort to the system of exchanging hides for leather. This approaches nearer to a purchase on a specie basis, and would certainly draw out the leather from its concealment, and not have that tendency to repress production which is one of the worst consequences of impressment. I recommend that the prohibition against such exchanges be removed from this army at least, in view of the vital importance of procuring a prompt supply of leather.... Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R.E. LEE, General.
General-in-Chief Halleck’s dispatch about the deteriorating conditions in East Tennessee has grabbed U.S. Grant’s attention. He writes to George H. Thomas in Chattanooga: “Owing to the presence of Longstreet still in East Tennessee it will be impossible to attempt any movement from present positions while he remains. The great number of veteran volunteers now absent and yet to be furloughed will be another difficulty in the way of any movement this winter.” Grant also informs Thomas of Sherman’s upcoming expedition. “He will proceed eastward as far as Meridian at least, and will thoroughly destroy the roads east and south from there, and if possible will throw troops as far east as Selma; or if he finds Mobile so far unguarded as to make his force sufficient for the enterprise, will go there. To co-operate with this movement you want to keep up appearances of preparation of an advance from Chattanooga; it may be necessary, even, to move a column as far as La Fayette.” However, Grant warns: “Before any part of this programme can be carried out Longstreet must be driven from East Tennessee. To do this it may be necessary to send more force from your command. I write this to…hear such suggestions as you may have to propose.” Grant also writes to Henry Halleck about the campaign in the East.
CONFIDENTIAL.
HDQRS. MIL. DIV. OF THE MISSISSIPPI, Nashville, Tenn., January 19, 1864.
Maj. Gen. H.W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief of the Army, Washington, D.C.: I would respectfully suggest whether an abandonment of all previously attempted lines to Richmond is not advisable, and in lieu of these one be taken farther south. I would suggest Raleigh, N.C., as the objective point and Suffolk as the starting point. Raleigh once secured, I would make New Berne the base of supplies until Wilmington is secured. A moving force of 60,000 men would probably be required to start on such an expedition.... A force moving from Suffolk would destroy first all the roads about Weldon.... From Weldon to Raleigh they would scarcely meet with serious opposition. Once there, the most interior line of railway still left to the enemy...would be so threatened as to force him to use a large portion of his army in guarding it. This would virtually force an evacuation of Virginia and indirectly of East Tennessee. It would throw our armies into new fields, where they could partially live upon the country and would reduce the stores of the enemy. It would cause thousands of the North Carolina troops to desert and return to their homes. It would give us possession of many negroes who are now indirectly aiding the rebellion. It would draw the enemy from campaigns of their own choosing, and for which they are prepared, to new lines of operations never expected to become necessary.... From your better opportunities of studying the country and the armies that would be involved in this plan, you will be better able to judge of the practicability of it than I possibly can. I have written this in accordance with what I understand to be an invitation from you to express my views about military operations, and not to insist that any plan of mine should be carried out. Whatever course is agreed upon, I shall always believe is at least intended for the best, and until fully tested will hope to have it prove so. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
U.S. GRANT, Major-General.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. U.S. Grant reports that “the great number of veteran volunteers now absent and yet to be furloughed will” create difficulties “in the way of any movement this winter.” He adds, “Owing to the presence of Longstreet still in East Tennessee it will be impossible to attempt any movement from present positions” at Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. The C.S. Congress passes an Act to provide for holding elections for representatives from the state of Missouri. The election is scheduled for the first Monday in May.
2. James Longstreet reports “the enemy advanced by Dandridge...forcing our cavalry back and aiming to throw us out of position.... Hood's and Buckner's divisions were advanced to a position to meet the enemy's move, and at the same time to threaten his base.... The flank movement was handsomely executed, and it was handsomely followed by the dismounted cavalry.” He adds, “Our infantry was not in condition to pursue, half of our men being without shoes.”
3. Major G.W. Day, Rucker’s East Tennessee Legion, leads a raiding party towards Tazewell, Tennessee, capturing “about 40 men of the Sixth Indiana Cavalry” near Big Springs.
January 20 1864 (Wednesday)
After receiving a report from Commodore Henry H. Bell, U.S.N., indicating “the presence in Mobile Bay or the Alabama River of seven rebel rams,” Admiral David G. Farragut decides to conduct a reconnaissance of the bay. Bell also believes that the Rebels may be planning to make an attack on the blockading force. Farragut informs Secretary of the Navy Gideon Wells that Bell’s fears are unfounded. He writes: “It is depressing to see how easily false reports circulate out here, and in what a state of alarm the community is kept by the most absurd rumors. If the Department could get one or two of the ironclads down here it would put an end to this state of things and restore confidence to the people of the ports now in our possession.... I feel no apprehension of [Confederate Admiral Franklin Buchanan] raising the blockade of Mobile; but with such a force as he has in the bay it would be unwise to take in our wooden vessels.”
U.S. FLAGSHIP HARTFORD, New Orleans.
Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: I made a reconnoissance of Forts Morgan and Gaines. I went in over the bar in the gunboat Octorara.... We passed up to Sand Island and laid abreast of the light-house on it. The day was uncommonly fine and the air very clear. We were distant from the forts 3 and 3½ miles, and could see everything distinctly, so that it was easy to verify...the number of guns visible on the bastions of the forts. I could count the guns and the men who stood by them; could see the piles that had been driven across from Fort Gaines to the channel opposite Fort Morgan, the object of which is to force the ships to keep as close as possible to the latter. There were no vessels in the bay except one transport steamer.... I am satisfied that if I had one ironclad at this time I could destroy their whole force in the bay and reduce the forts at my leisure by cooperation with our land forces, say, 5,000 men. We must have about 2,500 men in the rear of each fort to make regular approaches by land and to prevent the garrisons receiving supplies and reinforcements, the fleet to run the batteries and fight the flotilla in the bay; but without ironclads we should not be able to fight the enemy's vessels of that class with much prospect of success, as the latter could lie on the fiats where our ships could not go to destroy them. Wooden vessels can do nothing with them unless by getting within 100 or 200 yards, so as to ram them or pour in a broadside.... I am told...that two of the ironclads now being constructed at St. Louis are finished, and that three or four ought to be by this time. If I could get these I would attack them at once…. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D.G. FARRAGUT, Rear-Admiral.
Robert E. Lee makes plans to send a detachment to North Carolina to make an attack on New Berne. He writes to Richard Ewell: “I design sending [Robert F. Hoke] to North Carolina on special service with his brigade.... I desire General Hoke to proceed [to Petersburg] with orders to report to... [George E. Pickett, Department of North Carolina,] at that place.... Please give the necessary orders, and direct General Hoke to call on me on his way for instructions.” After sending instructions to Pickett, Lee asks Cape Fear District commander William H.C. Whiting in Wilmington for assistance. “An attack on New Berne is contemplated by the forces under command of General Pickett.... I request that you will give all the assistance in your power, especially by threatening simultaneously with your troops…so as to prevent their re-enforcing New Berne.... Commit nothing to the telegraph on the subject, and keep the matter secret.”
HEADQUARTERS, January 20, 1864.
Maj. Gen. GEORGE E. PICKETT, Commanding, &c., Petersburg, Va.: From all the information I have received I think the garrison at New Berne can be captured, and I wish it tried.... You can use for that purpose [Seth M. Barton's], [Del. Kemper's], [John M. Corse's], and as much of [Robert Ransom's] brigades as you can draw to that point. I shall send, in addition, Hoke's brigade from this army. General Hoke is familiar with the vicinity of New Berne, has recently returned from a visit to that country, and it is mainly upon his information that my opinion has been formed.... General Whiting will be requested on the day appointed for the attack to threaten Swansborough with the troops he has north of the Cape Fear…. Everything will depend upon the secrecy, expedition, and boldness of your movements.... When the day of attack is fixed notify General Whiting. If you have to use the telegraph, merely say, "The day is "--name the day of the month; he will comprehend. Commit nothing to the telegraph that may disclose your purpose.. You must deceive the enemy as to your purpose, and conceal it from the citizens. As regards the concentration of troops, you may put it on the ground of apprehension of an attack from New Berne. General Hoke will give out that he is going to arrest deserters and recruit his diminished regiments. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R.E. LEE, General.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. H.W. Halleck reports “two deserters” from “Lee’s army” report the “number of ration’s daily issues at 45,000, and number of effective men at 38,000, exclusive of 11,000 in the Shenandoah Valley.”
2. U.S. Grant decides to skip his planned trip to Saint Louis, and instead return to Chattanooga. He reports, “The siege of Knoxville is about to be renewed. It was a great oversight in the first place to have ever permitted Longstreet to come to a stop within the State of Tennessee.”
3. Captain A.H. Pfeiffer, First New Mexico Cavalry, completes an expedition against Navajo Indians through Cañon de Chelle. He reports killing “3 Indians (2 men)” and capturing “19 prisoners, women and children.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. A fire is started in a woodpile of the basement of the C.S. White House in Richmond, Virginia. Servants smell the smoke before major damage can occur.
2. Sam. Jones is ordered to take “military possession” of the East Tennessee Railroad. He is instructed to “have inventory taken of all property, locomotives, cars, and machinery.”
January 21 1864 (Thursday)
After being paroled by Captain Rafael Semmes, C.S.N., and released in Jamaica, Lieutenant-Commander Homer C. Blake reports that his ship, the U.S.S. Hatteras, has been sunk in an engagement with the C.S.S. Alabama. Last week when the C.S.S. Alabama arrived off the coast of Galveston, his sail was quickly spotted by a Union vessel. Blake reports: “I was ordered...to chase a sail to the southward and eastward. I got underway immediately and steamed with all speed in the direction indicated.... When within about 4 miles of the vessel, I observed that she had ceased to steam and was lying broadside on, awaiting us.... I felt assured from the general character of the vessel and her maneuvering, that I should soon encounter the rebel steamer Alabama.” Uncharacteristically, Semmes decides to engage the Union warship. Blake continues: “I steamed directly for the Alabama, but she was enabled by her great speed...to thwart my attempt.... At length a shell entered amidship in the hold, setting fire to it, and at the same instant...a shell passed through the sick bay, exploding in an adjoining compartment, also producing fire.... With the vessel on fire in two places, and beyond human power a hopeless wreck upon the water..., I still maintained an active fire, with a double hope of disabling the Alabama and of attracting the attention of the fleet off Galveston.... It was soon reported to me that shells had entered the Hatteras at the water line, tearing off entire sheets of iron, and that the water was rushing in, utterly defying every attempt to remedy the evil, and that she was rapidly sinking.”
C.S.S. ALABAMA, Bahia.
Hon. [Stephen R. Mallory], Secretary of the Navy, Richmond, Va.: I arrived off Galveston (undersail)…, and just before nightfall we made the enemy's fleet lying off the bar, consisting of five ships of war. One of the steamers was soon after perceived to get underway and steer in our direction. I ordered steam to be got up, but kept sail on the ship as a decoy, that I might entice the enemy's ship sufficiently far from the fleet to offer her battle. I wore ship and stood away from the bar, permitting the enemy to approach me by slow degrees. When the enemy had approached sufficiently near, I took in all sail and wearing short around ran up within hail. [We] informed him that we were the C.S.S. Alabama, and at the same time I directed the first lieutenant to open fire upon him. Our fire was promptly returned, and a brisk action ensued, which lasted, however, only thirteen minutes, as at the end of that time the enemy fired an off gun and showed a light, and upon being hailed by us to know if he had surrendered, he replied that he had and that he was in a sinking condition. I immediately dispatched boats to his assistance, and had just time to remove the crew when the ship went down.... Being embarrassed with a large number of prisoners, I steamed directly for Jamaica.... Here I landed my prisoners, repaired damages, coaled ship, and… proceeded to sea again.... I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. SEMMES, Commander.
Unhappy with the effectiveness of his cavalry commander William T. Martin, James Longstreet requests that Wade Hampton, commander of a cavalry division in the Army of Northern Virginia, be sent to East Tennessee. He writes: “Our cavalry is quite inefficient for want of a proper leader. General Martin has not had experience enough to give him confidence in himself or his men. Without confidence a cavalry leader can have no dash, and without either he cannot be the leader we need.... Our cavalry is composed of very fine material, and only wants a good leader to render it very efficient.” However, Robert E. Lee insists that Hampton “cannot be spared” from his army. Longstreet sends instructions to Martin to continue his pursuit of the retreating Federals. “If you press him vigorously it will become a panic.” The orders are repeated in a dispatch written by Lieutenant-Colonel Moxley Sorrel, A.A.G.: “The commanding general directs me to say that he did not think you would wait to be ordered to pursue with your cavalry an enemy who was retreating, almost routed, from your front.... The commanding general gave you orders in person to push your force after the retreating enemy.”
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, January 21, 1864--10.30 a.m.
Maj. Gen. W.T. MARTIN, Commanding Cavalry: The commanding general is greatly surprised at learning that your advance…was so much as 4 ½ miles from Strawberry Plains, on this side, and he desires that you will explain how it is that you have been three days moving to that point. He wishes at the same time that you will state the distance you have moved on each day since the retirement of the enemy began.... I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
G.M. SORREL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Assistant Adjutant-General.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. O.B. Willcox reports a “brisk” skirmish at Strawberry Plains, Tennessee, “with the enemy's dismounted infantry.” He writes: “Having no cavalry, I cannot tell anything more than is before me.”
2. T.E. G. Ransom leads a reconnaissance on the Matagorda Peninsula, Texas. He reports: “Met rebel pickets..., captured 3 horses, the riders escaping on the bay.”
3. Captain E.A. Barker, 2d Kansas Cavalry, leads a scout from Waldron to Baker’s Springs, Arkansas, where he surprised a “band of guerillas..., taking 2 lieutenants and 25 men prisoners.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. R.E. Lee submits a recommendation for J.S. Mosby’s promotion to lieutenant-colonel. Lee writes: “I do this in order to show him that his services have been appreciated, and to encourage him to still greater activity and zeal.”
2. Colonel C.H. Simonton, 25th S.C. reports the U.S.S. Pawnee “came up the Stono [River] this morning...and remained…until about 3 o'clock, when she fired 2 shells at John's Island.”
January 22 1864 (Friday)
A small Union force lands on the Texas coast near the mouth of the Caney Creek, where the Matagorda Peninsula connected to the mainland. Hamilton P. Bee, Western Sub-District of Texas, reports: “The enemy landed about 200 men with a small ship howitzer, and at once placed it in battery; two other steamers joined them by 5 o'clock. They then moved...and at midnight were 25 miles from the mouth of Caney, and still marching rapidly, receiving re-enforcements from the boats from time to time.... I can form but one opinion of this extraordinary movement, that they expected to draw our troops after them, which succeeding, they would land in their rear and cut them off.” It is only after the Union invasion force withdraws as quickly as it arrived that Bee is able to learn of their intent. He reports: “My scouts report that the enemy have returned toward [Decrow's Point] .... The object of the enemy was to get fresh meat. They obtained but a small supply. The troops are in good spirits and will hold the mouth of Caney.”
HDQRS. DIST. OF TEXAS, NEW MEXICO, AND ARIZONA, Houston, January 22, 1864--5 p.m.
Brig. Gen. H.P. BEE, Commanding Army in the Field: The major-general commanding [John B. Magruder] thinks this movement of the enemy on the peninsula a feint to draw troops and attention from Galveston.... If many transports loaded with troops have passed west, this expedition may have gone or may go there to re-enforce the enemy confronting you. Galveston will probably be attacked in great force, and the major-general commanding thinks this expedition is intended for that place. He leaves for Galveston in the morning..., but will return in two days if it is not attacked.... You will defend the mouth of Caney, Bernard, and Brazos, but must exercise your own judgment. The enemy may wish to get possession of our works at the mouth of Caney by a combined attack of land and river forces. This you will prevent, if possible, at the same time keeping an eye on the rest of the coast. In the mean time you will keep the major-general commanding informed of your movements and those of the enemy. I am, &c.,
[Lieutenant Stephen] D. YANCEY, Assistant Adjutant-General.
John G. Foster reports on his ignominious retreat back to Knoxville: “The pressure of the enemy, has forced me to order the Fourth Corps to march to protect the railroad, Loudon, and Kingston. The Twenty-third Corps will be placed in town, with the Ninth in supporting distance. The enemy presses vigorously, and is about 7 miles from town.... I am now satisfied that Longstreet has been considerably re-enforced, but not large enough, I think, to warrant his renewing the siege of this place.” Orlando B. Willcox commands the rear guard of Foster’s army. Willcox reports: “I am now carrying on a brisk skirmish with the enemy's dismounted infantry.... I took this stand in order to develop, if possible, the character of the force advancing. So far I have discovered nothing but a division of mounted troops. I did not wish either to divide the force or to march into Knoxville with the enemy on my heels. Having no cavalry, I cannot tell anything more than is before me.” However, Longstreet is in no position to attack Willcox’s fortified position. He reports: “For want of shoes and clothing our infantry cannot go on.... The enemy has escaped to his fortifications in Knoxville. We only got thirty-one of his wagons and three caissons.”
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Lyon's Mills, Tenn.
Capt. SAMUEL WRIGHT, Assistant Adjutant-General: The army was moving toward Knoxville, with heavy trains over bad roads, and the Ninth Corps was left to bring up the rear.... The enemy soon appeared, lined the banks of the river commanding the plains, and from Seminary Hill opened fire with a field battery.... We remained in position...at Strawberry Plains annoyed…only by the enemy's sharpshooters. They showed a considerable force of cavalry and mounted infantry.... At about 1 o'clock..., the enemy's cavalry appeared in our rear.... The lines were formed and we marched...without annoyance from the enemy, to a position a mile above the intersection of the Armstrong's Ferry road with the Knoxville road, where I ordered a halt of all the troops, threw out skirmishers toward the enemy, encountered their skirmish line, drove them back, and carried two wooded knolls which they had seized in our rear and right. The rebel force driven off, we went into bivouac.... Their whole force returned toward Strawberry Plains about midnight, and we saw no more of them.... I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
O.B. WILLCOX, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. W.S. Rosecrans is “appointed to the command of the Department of Missouri, J.M. Schofield, “on being relieved,” will report for duty in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
2. J.A. McClernand is ordered to report to New Orleans for duty in the Department of the South.
3. Colonel G.E. Waring Jr., Fourth Missouri Cavalry, leads an expedition from Union City to Trenton, Tennessee. He reports “the road...was very bad.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. R.E. Lee sends a recommendation to the War Department that the “law authorizing partisan corps be abolished.” He writes: “The evils resulting from their organization more than counterbalance the good they accomplish.”
2. James Longstreet reports 28 forage wagons “were captured on the south side of French Broad.” He reports they “had neglected to get the usual guards.”
3. In San Antonio, Texas, Colonel J.S. Ford, Cavalry of the West, reports “the camels have been sent to the Guadalupe [River] for corn.” He writes: “They can live best on grass, and it is not certain they will live on corn.”
4. At Subligna, Georgia, a camp of Georgia Home Guards is “routed” and the “camp is destroyed.”
January 23 1864 (Saturday)
While General G.T. Beauregard continues his inspection of the defenses of Savannah, his chief of staff Thomas Jordan remains behind in Charleston to see that his instructions are carried out. Jordan writes to Commodore John R. Tucker, C.S. Naval Forces Afloat, Charleston: “In order that steamers running the blockade of Charleston may receive all assistance possible...in entering the port, General Beauregard has issued instructions to the officers commanding Sullivan's Island and Fort Sumter that a single steamer per night may be allowed to come past our batteries without being fired on. Parties who have inquired from these headquarters...have been told distinctly that more than one vessel per night will not be allowed to pass our batteries, but that one would not be molested.” Meanwhile, ‘Old Bory’ reassures Samuel Cooper in Richmond that he has no intentions of relinquishing any of the territory around Savannah. He writes: “I do not propose abandoning my present lines of defense…without contesting every foot of ground to extent of my means, but have advised planters near Savannah Railroad, who have addressed me on the subject, to remove their negroes liable to fall into hands of enemy.” While Beauregard is in town, Savannah Mayor Richard D. Arnold takes the opportunity to bring up some of the issues troubling the citizens of that city. Arnold writes: We are in a bad condition here for corn. For a whole week hardly a house in Savannah had even its supply of grits, that necessary article of consumption having risen as high as $16 per bushel.”
MAYOR'S OFFICE, Savannah, January 23, 1864.
General BEAUREGARD, C.S. Army, Now at Savannah: I avail myself of your presence in the city to address you on a subject of vital importance to our citizens. City council have in successful operation a city store, where provisions gathered at various points in the country by a purchasing committee are sold at a price merely covering costs and charges. This has had the double advantage of preventing extortion and of bringing supplies into the city. The purchases are made by agents...who go to various points in the country to purchase. We have been, however, cut off from obtaining supplies from the borders of the Savannah River on either side, because the Government has monopolized all the transportation on the river, thus...cutting the city off from its supplies of corn, wood, &c.... I earnestly appeal to you to allow such corn as is bought...to be brought to the city on the Government boats when, as they often do, they have room for 100 bushels or thereabouts.... I have every reason to believe that if transportation could be afforded along our river, corn would soon drop down to $3 a bushel. All of which is most respectfully submitted to your consideration. Your obedient servant,
R.D. ARNOLD, Mayor.
Nathaniel P. Banks is pleased to inform Henry W. Halleck that the “entire Nineteenth Army Corps has re-enlisted for the war.” He continues: “A considerable portion of the Thirteenth Corps has also re-enlisted, and all would have been obtained, except for the orders received from the War Department in regard to the suspension of bounties. We have since received information that the bounties are renewed, and I am quite confident that a greater part, if not all, of these two corps will re-enlist.” Banks is also confident about the Louisiana State elections slated for February 22nd. “I entertain no doubt that a full vote will be given in the election...and that the State officers, with a full delegation in both Houses of Congress, composed of earnest and intelligent supporters of the Administration...will be ready for service by the middle of April. There is great unanimity of feeling with the people in this State as to election. No serious objection is made except on the part of persons whose private plans have been somewhat disturbed by the immediate organization of a State government.” Banks also indicates that he is willing to pull most of his troops out to Texas to cooperate with a Red River expedition in the spring. He reports: “With our united forces and the assistance of General Sherman the success of movements on that line will be certain and important. I shall most cordially co-operate with them.... With my own command I can operate with safety only on the coast of Texas, but from the coast I could not penetrate far into the interior, nor secure control of more than the country west of San Antonio.”
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF, New Orleans, January 23, 1864.
Maj. Gen. H.W. HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief, &c.: I am much gratified to know that General Sherman is instructed to co-operate with the commands on the Mississippi. With the forces you propose, I concur in your opinion, and with Generals Sherman and [Frederick Steele, Department of Arkansas], "that the Red River is the shortest and best line of defense for Louisiana and Arkansas, and as a base of operations against Texas," but it would be too much for General Steele or myself to undertake separately.... I have written to General Sherman and General Steele... and shall be ready to act with them as soon as the Atchafalaya and Red River will admit the navigation of our gun-boats.... I shall be ready to move to Alexandria as soon as the rivers are up.... From that point I can operate with General Steele north or south of Red River, in the direction of Shreveport, and from thence await your instructions. I do not think operations will be delayed on my account.... I do not think it expedient to give up the occupation of Matagorda Bay, which is a key point of Texas..., but the force will be reduced to the lowest number consistent with the safe occupation of Matagorda Island. I have a small force east of Lake Pontchartrain...and which will be withdrawn as soon as we have active field duty. I can concentrate on Red River all my force available for active service except the garrisons at Matagorda and Brownsville, which will be small.... With great respect, &c.,
N.P. BANKS, Major-General, Commanding.
Other Union activity reported on this date:
1. Following a constitutional convention in Little Rock, a provisional U.S. government is established Arkansas. A regular State government is to be inaugurated in April.
2. C.R. Woods, First Division, 15th Corps, reports “ninety horses were stolen and seventeen civilian teamsters captured” near Woodville, Alabama.
3. In La Grange, Tennessee, Colonel Edward Prince, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, reports a “scouting force” has just returned from Ripley, Mississippi, after capturing “3 prisoners and lost 3, taken prisoners.”
Other Confederate activity reported on this date:
1. President Davis reports the nomination of Joseph Wheeler “to be major-general of cavalry is objected to by Senators.” J.E. Johnston responds: “I consider...General Wheeler's nomination essential.”
2. In Mobile, Alabama, D.H. Maury, Department of the Gulf, reports “that the fleet of twenty-three vessels which passed Mobile Harbor..., going east, did not enter into Pensacola.” He continues: “It may be intended for Saint Mark's [Florida] or mouth of the Suwannee [River].”