POLL... GRANT IN THE WILDERNESS

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May 22 1864 (Sunday)

With his army on the march towards the North Anna River, U.S. Grant reports to General Halleck. "We now occupy Milford Station and south of the Mattapony on that line. I will now transfer our depot to Port Royal at once. Please direct the transfer of everything there." General Meade issues orders to his corps commanders: "Each command will send out cavalry and infantry on all roads to their front leading south, and ascertain, if possible, where the enemy is. If beyond the North Anna, the Fifth and Sixth Corps will march to the forks of the road where one branch leads to Beaver Dam Station, the other to Jericho Bridge....The Second Corps will move to Chesterfield Ford. The Ninth Corps will be directed to move at the same time to Jericho Bridge. The map only shows two roads for the four corps to march upon, but no doubt by the use of plantation roads and pressing in guides, others can be found to give one for each corps." At 9:30 a.m., the van of General Lee's army reaches Hanover Junction. He reports, "I have arrived at this place with the head of Ewell's corps. Longstreet [Anderson] is close up. Hill I expect to come in on my right but have not heard from him since I left him last night. I have learned as yet nothing of the movements of the enemy east of the Mattapony." At noon, General Dick Anderson's corps crosses the river at Ox Ford. He receives orders from Lee's headquarters. "General Lee desires that you will place your troops in some good ground on this side of the Anna, where they can get rest and refresh themselves. You will make every preparation to move at a moment's notice, and if necessary have rations cooked. The general wishes the men and horses to get all the rest they can."

POLE CAT CREEK, May 22, [1864]--1.15 p.m. - General LEE: - GENERAL: Two hours ago I took position here, where the ground is very strong, leaving pickets from Wright's Tavern down. About two brigades infantry were then in sight, and I have been skirmishing with them since. They are pushing on sharply, but I can hold them here for some time. Everything is clear, and I only wish to mask the movement of the infantry. This is Burnside's corps, which crossed at Milford, and I fear that nothing else is here. Scouts do not report any troops going down the old Stage road across the Mattapony, and I have failed to hear of any other than Burnside's column lower than Guiney's Station....I am, very respectfully, yours, WADE HAMPTON, Major-General.

Sixty-two year old David Hunter arrives at Cedar Creek and take command of the army from Franz Sigel. He reports, "Major-General Sigel, actuated by an earnest patriotism, was anxious to take a division in this army or attend to any other duty. Upon consultation with him I have deemed it best to place him in command of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the reserve troops in that region." However, his request for "two efficient and energetic brigadiers," is quickly denied by General Halleck. "You have three generals of cavalry in your department, Stahel, Duffié, and Averell, certainly enough for your cavalry force. If any are worthless recommend them to be mustered out and I will indorse it. No one can be appointed till some one else is mustered out."

CEDAR CREEK, VA., May 22, 1864--11 p.m. (Received 2.45 p.m. 23d.) - Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Chief of Staff: Our cavalry is utterly demoralized from frequent defeats by inferior forces and retreats without fighting, and it most urgently needs a commander of grit, zeal, activity, and courage....It would be impossible to exaggerate the inefficiency of General Stahel. About two hours ago, there being a distant alarm, he sent to ask for two companies of infantry to protect his right flank....We move south to-morrow afternoon. D. HUNTER, Major-General, Commanding.

Other activity reported on this date:
Gen. A.P. Hill was restored to command of III Corps, Army of Northern Virginia.
Affair near Devall's Bluff, AR. 20 Rebels surprised and captured 3 men and over 100 horses which foraging.
Capture and recapture of the Sting Ray, off Brazos, TX. The steamer was captured by a Federal gunboat and a prize crew placed in charge. Cpt. McCloskey then "produced some liquor, and in a short time succeeded in getting the prize crew drunk." McCloskey and crew then overpowered the prize crew and beached the vessel near Velasco. Five Union sailors were captured and two escaped during the affair.
Skirmish at Front Royal, VA.
Skirmish near Mount Pleasant, MS. Cpt. W.H. Forrest's squadron attacked a Federal scouting party from the 4th Missouri Cav.; killing 12, wounding and capturing 5 without a loss.


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May 23 1864 (Monday)

At 2:00 p.m., U.S. Grant reaches the North Anna River and issues orders, through General Meade, for the river crossing. "The Second Corps will proceed to suitable camping-grounds on the banks of the North Anna, near the New Bridge....If possible, the bridge and crossing will be secured....The Ninth Corps will take position to the right of the Second Corps and will seize Ox Ford....The Fifth Corps will occupy the bank of the river to cover and hold Jericho Ford. The Sixth Corps will take place on the right of the Fifth Corps. If any bridge or ford is to their front it will be seized and held; if none in front efforts will be made to open roads to the river at points where crossings may be effected to their front." When General Warren reports that there are no Rebel troops guarding the ford near Jericho Mills, Grant orders him across. "I would have Warren cross all the men he can to-night, and intrench himself strongly. There is but little likelihood that he will be pushed by the enemy, and if he is he can be re-enforced or could fall back by the same road, as necessity might require." A.P. Hill, resuming his position as corps commander, launches an unsuccessful attempt to force Warren back across the river. General Lee reports, "About noon to-day the enemy approached the Telegraph bridge over the North Anna. In the afternoon he attacked the guard at the bridge and drove it to this side. About the same time the Fifth Corps (General Warren) crossed at Jericho Ford, on our left. Was attacked by A. P. Hill and his advance checked."

HDQRS. FOURTH DIVISION, FIFTH ARMY CORPS. - Lieut. Col. F. T. LOCKS, Assistant Adjutant-General. - COLONEL: The North Anna was crossed at Jericho Ford at about 4 p.m. At 6 o'clock I was ordered to go into position on the right of Griffin, who had formed about three-fourths of a mile to the front of the ford....While riding to the front with Captain Mink to examine a position for his battery, and before the First Brigade had got into position, they were furiously attacked by the enemy, who made his appearance on Griffin's right....My First and Third Brigades being repulsed, immediately rallied on the crest with Mink's battery and another battery which had been sent up by Major-General Warren. Colonel Hofmann immediately moved up to support of the line....Colonel Bates at this time reported to me with his brigade. I sent two of his regiments to the support of my right, which was hard pressed. The enemy were not only checked, but repulsed with the loss of many killed and wounded and a large number of prisoners. After the affair was over my line was reformed and intrenched....I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. CUTLER, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

After procuring twenty days rations for this troops as well as his favorite horse, "Cump" Sherman orders his army across the Etowah River. He writes to Colonel Donaldson: "Horse arrived all safe and sound. He looks well, and I will ride him to-morrow across the Etowah, which is the Rubicon of Georgia. We are now all in motion like a vast hive of bees, and expect to swarm along the Chattahoochee in five days." At 5:00 p.m., General Schofield reports that he has secured a bridge over the river and will have his men across by late evening. He reports, "The expeditions to destroy the Etowah iron-works and Confederate flour mills were entirely successful, and report the complete destruction of both establishments." Rather than head towards the Rebel defenses sure to be found at Allatoona Pass, Sherman again has his army marching around the right flank of Joe Johnston's army.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Near Etowah Cliffs, Ga., May 23, 1864. - Maj. JOHN A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Ohio: - MAJOR: I consider it my duty to call the attention of the major-general commanding the corps to the terrible state of things that exists in different parts of the grand army under Major-General Sherman, so far as the wanton destruction of private property and works of art is concerned. It has not been my fortune to march a single day during the last week without being compelled to witness sights which are enough to disgrace and render worthy of defeat any army in the universe. I have seen at some times as many as half a dozen houses and barns on fire at a time, and in too many cases the wanton destruction of fine paintings and other works of art and culture has been reported to me, and also come under my own observation....While I am willing that everything shall be taken that will be of service to our army or beneficial to the enemy, if done in an orderly manner, I have no desire to serve with an army where the fundamental principles of civilized warfare are so shockingly violated at every step in our progress. Should any untoward event happen to us, compelling us to retreat (which may God forbid), I fear that those of our men that might fall into the enemy's hands would neither receive nor deserve any other than barbarous treatment in their hands. As these facts may not have been brought to the knowledge of the major-general commanding Military Division of the Mississippi, I respectfully ask that this communication be forwarded to him if, in the opinion of the major-general commanding the corps, the public interest demand it. I am, major, most respectfully, yours, MILO S. HASCALL, Brigadier-General of Vols., Comdg. Second Division.

Other activity reported on this date:
Combat at Jericho Bridge or Falls or Mills on the North Anna River, VA.
Combat at Telegraph Road Bridge on the North Anna River, VA.
Gen. W. E. "Grumble" Jones assumed command of the Department of Southwestern Virginia.
Action at Stilesborough, GA.
Skirmish with Indians at Grouse Creek, CA.


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May 24 1864 (Tuesday)

Although the victorious Red River campaign is over, the bickering continues between Generals Kirby Smith and Richard Taylor. Smith writes: "You complain bitterly of the withdrawal of Walker's division, and say it has robbed your army of the just measure of its glory and the country of the most brilliant and complete success of the war. This most unjust complaint, though repeated, remained unnoticed. It was attributed to your ill-health, and that irritability of disposition which...you regretted and begged me to bear with." Smith continues, "You...distinctly expressed your approval of the movement. You selected the commands that were to remain and those that were to be detached....The fruits of your victory at Mansfield were secured by the march of that column. The complete success of the campaign was determined by the overthrow of Steele at Jenkins' Ferry." When Smith directs Taylor to prepare his troops for an offensive campaign into Missouri, Taylor backs out. "The condition of my health precludes the hope that I will be able to participate in a Missouri campaign. I scarcely believe I will be able for some time to come to conduct the affairs of my present command. The forces here are unable for the moment to engage in very active service in any quarter."

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST LOUISIANA, Near Alexandria, May 24, 1864. - General E. KIRBY SMITH, Commanding Trans-Mississippi Department: - GENERAL: A Missouri campaign can be made a great success and have an important bearing on the war in both its political and military aspects; but every energy of the department must be sternly directed to the success of the movement....It is due the importance of this subject that I should respectfully but frankly express my opinion. No campaign dependent on the present system of bureaucracy will succeed. The rage for what is termed organization has proceeded so far that we are like a disproportioned garment---all ruffles and no shirt. The number of bureaus now existing in this department, and the army of employés attached to them, would do honor to St. Petersburg or Paris....Every courier from department headquarters brings a new batch of details to waste our slender ranks. Meanwhile the troops in the field are without pay, insufficiently supplied with food, and almost destitute of shoes and clothing....These opinions are shared by every intelligent officer of this army....I repeat, my health precludes the hope that I can share in the Missouri campaign, and I hope the length at which I have gone into the subject will render the interview mentioned in your communication unnecessary. In conclusion, I have the honor to repeat the request previously made, that I may speedily be relieved from duty in this department. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. TAYLOR, Major-General.

Early reports from his corps commanders convince General Grant that Lee's army is on the retreat. At 8:00 a.m., he writes to General Halleck: "The enemy have fallen back from North Anna; we are in pursuit. Negroes who have come in state that Lee is falling back to Richmond....I will probably know to-day if the enemy intends standing behind South Anna." Only General Burnside reports a heavy force in his front across Ox Ford. "I...have arranged for an effort to carry the ford by...two divisions of the Ninth Corps. The prospects of success are not at all flattering, but I think the attempt can be made without any very disastrous results, and we may possibly succeed....The enemy's side of the river is densely wooded along its bank, with high ground in rear, with one battery in position, flanked by rifle-pits, and it is reported that there is another line of rifle-pits in front." After getting his troops across the knee-deep ford, Burnside moves forward cautiously. "Skirmishers were thrown forward to the river, and we succeeded in getting possession of an island near the ford. Our movements demonstrated the fact that the enemy were in strong force on the opposite bank of the river, and well intrenched. The belief at that time was that the enemy had formed their lines...in the shape of a V, with its salient immediately opposite the ford, which rendered the passage of it almost, if not quite, impossible; certainly not without very severe loss." Fortified by a generous supply of whisky, General Ledlie, without waiting for approval, orders his unsupported brigade to attack the heavily fortified Confederate lines. After being stopped in their tracks by a Confederate volley at 100 yards, Ledlie's men are routed and forced back. The inability of Burnside to gain control of Ox Ford leaves Grant's army split in two pieces and separated by the North Anna River. Grant writes to Burnside: "The situation of the enemy appearing so different from what I expected, I do not deem it advisable for you to move your wagon train to the south side of the river to-night....The enemy holding the south bank of the river at Ox Ford, I think it important that you should hold the north side of the same place....Bridges will be laid above and below the point on the river held by the enemy, and as near to it as possible, to-morrow morning, and roads opened between them, so as to bring our right and left as near supporting distance as possible." At 9:30 p.m., Lee sends his daily dispatch to Richmond. "The enemy has been making feeble attacks upon our lines to-day, probably with a view of ascertaining our position. They were easily repulsed. General Mahone drove three regiments across the river, capturing a stand of colors and some prisoners, among them I aide-de-camp of General Ledlie."

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST DIV., NINTH ARMY CORPS, Camp at Cold Harbor, Va. - Lieut. C. J. MILLS, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Div.. Ninth Army Corps. - SIR: On the morning of the 24th I crossed my brigade from the north to the south bank of the North Anna River, by wading the stream 1 mile above Ox Ford, for the purpose of flanking the enemy, and formed line of battle and pushed forward, driving the rebels into their intrenchments about 1 ½ miles from the river, but having found the enemy posted in very strong force, the brigade held this position until ordered to fall back, the enemy at the same time attacking me with two divisions of Hill's corps, but failed to carry out their intentions of flanking me. And here I would refer with pleasure to the gallant services of Maj. J. St. C. Morton, of the U.S. Engineers, on the staff of Major-General Burnside. He volunteered his services to me in a trying moment, and gallantly led a charge of one of my regiments upon the enemy, inspiring the troops by his courage and bravery. ...The brigade held position on the south bank of the North Anna...I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES H. LEDLIE, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

The van of "Cump" Sherman's army crosses Pumpkin Vine Creek on its march towards Dallas, Georgia. General Garrard reports, "I am camped on the Pumpkin Vine three miles from Dallas and three miles from Pumpkin Vine Church. This afternoon I moved on Dallas, and when in a mile of it was attacked by a brigade of infantry and one of cavalry; at least such is the impression, and prisoners say it was the advance of Hardee's corps--Bate's division. They came in Dallas this morning after a nine-mile march." Sherman is not surprised to find Rebels in his path as he has already learned that Joe Johnston is aware of his flank march. He reports, "General Thomas' head of column skirmished with the enemy's cavalry about Burnt Hickory, and captured a courier with a letter of General Johnston's showing he had detected the movement and was preparing to meet us about Dallas. The country was very rugged, mountainous, and densely wooded, with few and obscure roads." In addition, Sherman learns that Rebel cavalry are on the loose near Cassville. Colonel Hambright reports from Kingston, "This morning a train was attacked near Cassville, and some 20 wagons burned, and about the same number driven off....The enemy having moved to the right, I suppose their object is to destroy or cut the road....All precaution has been taken at this post, and with the force now here can defend the post."

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS. - Maj. A. P. MASON, Assistant Adjutant-General: At midnight...I started on a reconnaissance with a portion of my command to strike the enemy's rear near Cassville and ascertain the dispositions of the enemy....I moved on to Cassville with my command and discovered a wagon train near Cass Station....I attacked with Kelly's division, using one regiment to guard its right flank on the Kingston road....The attack by charging was a complete success, driving the enemy from his wagons and capturing about 80 wagons, which were safely brought out, and burning the remainder of their train....The enemy in their fright burned a considerable train below Cass Station, and also similarly destroyed a quantity of commissary stores recently brought to that point for transportation....We continued our charge, killing and wounding large numbers of the enemy, and capturing over 100 prisoners. I had previously detached a regiment to cut the railroad, and having, from prisoners, citizens, and personal observation, learned all regarding the enemy, I withdrew quietly toward the river, crossing with my prisoners, wagons, mules, horses....Respectfully, major, your obedient servant, J. WHEELER, Major-General.

Other activity reported on this date:
Ninth Army Corps, Gen. A. E. Burnside commanding, was assigned to the Army of the Potomac.
Affair at Fairfax Station, VA. Forty rebel cavalry succeeded in capturing Assistant Surgeon Craigen and several horses.
Skirmish near Charlestown, WV.
Combat at Ox Ford, VA
Combat at Quarles Mills, VA.
Skirmish at Burnt Hickory, GA.
Skirmishes at Cassville and Cass Station, GA.
Skirmish near Dallas, GA.
Skirmish at Hill's Plantation, MS.
Skirmish near Nashville, TN.
Engagement between Col. Greene's Confederate command with Union steamer Diana and the gunboat U.S.S. Rome near Columbia, AR.
Skirmish near Little Rock, AR.
Skirmish near Morganza, LA.


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May 25 1864 (Wednesday)

Robert E. Lee's line stretches for five miles in an inverted V, centered on the fortified heights opposite Ox Ford. His army is perfectly positioned to strike at the Federal army straddling the North Anna River. However, Lee is so stricken with an intestinal ailment that he is forced to retire to his tent. To make matters worse, he doesn't trust any of his corps commanders, Ewell, Anderson, or Hill, to preside over a major assault. Charles Dana informs his boss Secretary Stanton of the new situation confronting the Army of the Potomac. "The conclusion that the enemy had abandoned the region between the North and South Anna, though shared yesterday by every prominent officer here, proves to have been a mistake....All through the day yesterday Burnside found it impossible to cross his troops at the Ox Ford, and although Warren's corps was across above him, and Hancock's below, those commanders were unable to connect their lines until late in the afternoon....[The] enemy show such strength on their lines that it appears very probable that Lee's whole army is here. His intrenchments are in form of the letter V, having the point of the angle opposite the Ox Ford....We may remain here a day or two. If a promising chance offers, General Grant will fight, of course; otherwise, he will maneuver without attacking." Grant's main problem at the moment however, is withdrawing his army from its precarious position.

HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, Quarles' Mills, Va., May 25, 1864. - Maj. Gen. G. G. MEADE, Comdg. Army of the Potomac: - GENERAL: Direct Generals Warren and Wright to withdraw all their teams and artillery not in position to the north side of the river to-morrow....Send with it Wright's best division, or division under his ablest commander. Have this place filled up in the line, so if possible the enemy will not notice their withdrawal....As soon as it is dark to-morrow night start the division which you withdraw first from Wright's corps to make a forced march to Hanovertown, taking with them no teams to impede their march. At the same time this division starts commence withdrawing all of the Fifth and Sixth Corps from the south side of the river and march them for the same place....Hancock should hold his command in readiness to follow as soon as the way is clear for him to-morrow. It will leave nothing for him to do, but as soon as he can he should get all his teams and spare artillery on the road or roads which he will have to take. As soon as the troops reach Hanovertown they should get possession of all the crossings they can in that neighborhood. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General.

General Thomas' column pushes forward on the road from Burnt Hickory to Dallas. Joe Hooker's corps, in the van, encounters a Rebel force near Pumpkin Vine Creek. Sherman reports, "When he approached the Pumpkin Vine Creek, on the main Dallas road, he found a respectable force of the enemy's cavalry at a bridge to his left. He rapidly pushed them across the creek, saving the bridge, though on fire, and followed out eastward about two miles, where he first encountered infantry, whose pickets he drove some distance, until he encountered the enemy's line of battle, and his leading division, General Geary's, had a severe encounter." Despite two hours of heavy fighting, Hooker can make little headway against A.P. Stewart's division. O.O. Howard reports, "General Hooker sent me word...that he...was holding his ground but was hard pressed, and requested me to send up a column of brigades on the right-hand side of the road. I commenced the march instantly with that formation, but, finding that I was losing time, owing to the obstructions and difficulties of the ground, I directed the troops to march by the flank along the road as quickly as possible until they approached General Hooker's position....Newton deployed his command as fast as he could, but by the time this was effected it was completely dark." General Johnston, once again, has his troops construct a five-mile line of fortifications to hold back Sherman's advance. He writes to President Davis: "The enemy crossed the Etowah near Stilesborough. We moved...to intercept him and oppose his farther progress. Our cavalry have not ascertained definitely the route of his main body."

HEADQUARTERS HOOD'S CORPS, In the Field, ---- ---, 1864. - General J. E. JOHNSTON, Macon, Ga. - GENERAL: On the morning of the 25th, with my entire command, I arrived at New Hope Church, four miles east of Dallas. About midday the enemy were reported advancing, when my line was formed, Hindman on the left, Stewart in the center, and Stevenson on the right. At 5 p.m. a very determined attack was made upon Stewart, extending along a very small portion of Brown's brigade, of Stevenson's division. The engagement continued actively until night closed in, the enemy being repeatedly and handsomely repulsed at all points. Thus Hooker's entire corps was driven back by three brigades of Stewart's division. Prisoners taken were of that corps. Too much praise cannot be awarded to the artillery, under the immediate direction of Colonel Beckham, which did great execution in the enemy's ranks, and added much to their discomfiture....Respectfully, J. B. HOOD, Lieutenant-General.

Casualties at New Hope Church, GA: Union 1,600 Confederate Unknown.

Other activity reported on this date:
Affair at Jackson's Bridge, near Pensacola, FL. Thirty men from Cpt. Schmidt's Co. M, 14th New York Cav., crossed the Bayou Grand, and after advancing about 2 miles on the Pensacola road, came upon a Rebel cavalry picket at Jackson's Bridge, capturing 4 of their horses, with saddles, 3 muskets, and 1 saber.
Skirmish near Camp Finegan, FL. Col. Shaw led a small detachment of infantry in the direction of Baldwin. The advance was within less than half a mile of Camp Finegan when it was opposed by Rebel infantry and cavalry.
Skirmish near Cripple Creek, Woodbury Pike, TN.
Skirmish at Buck Horn, AR.


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May 26 1864 (Thursday)

The best efforts of Benjamin Butler to wine and dine Generals Meigs and Barnard into recommending that the Army of the James remain intact become moot when U.S. Grant becomes convinced that the Rebels have already sent most of General Beauregard's force to Lee's army. Halleck relays the information to Bermuda Hundred. "[General Grant] says Lee has been re-enforced by Pickett's division and other troops from Richmond, and that General Butler's force is not detaining 10,000 of the enemy." Halleck concurs with Grant's decision. He writes to Grant:"I wish everything was away from the south side of the James and with you. It would be much better. I do not like these divided commands, with the enemy intervening. I would rather use them altogether under your own eye." Accordingly, Butler is ordered to detach 20,000 men, under the command of "Baldy" Smith, to join the Army of the Potomac.

WASHINGTON, May 26, 1864--10 a.m. - Major-General BUTLER, Bermuda Hundred, Va.: General Grant directs that you retain no more troops than may be necessary to hold the James River to City Point, acting solely on the defensive, and send all else to White House, on the Pamunkey, to land on the north side and join the Army of the Potomac. This column will be placed under command of Major-General Smith. One or two field batteries and a regiment of cavalry will go with it, to cover the landing. General Gillmore or General Weitzel should be placed in the immediate command of your defensive position on the James, as they are familiar with defensive works....H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff.

General Grant prepares to disengage his army from Lee's line near the North Anna River for another flank march. He writes to Halleck: "Lee's right rests on a swamp east of the Richmond and Fredericksburg road and south of North Anna, his center on the river at Ox Ford, and his left on Little River....To make a direct attack from either wing would cause a slaughter of our men that even success would not justify. ...I have determined, therefore, to turn the enemy's right by crossing at or near Hanovertown." Lee's apparent inability to launch an attack while his army is caught in a vulnerable position astride the North Anna, convinces Grant that "Lee's army is really whipped." He continues, "The prisoners we now take show it, and the action of his army shows it unmistakably. A battle with them outside of intrenchments cannot be had. Our men feel that they have gained the morale over the enemy and attack with confidence. I may be mistaken, but I feel that our success over Lee's army is already insured." Lee's attack of diarrhea has subsided sufficiently for him to resume active command of the army and he is convinced that Grant's next move will be to his left. He sends instructions to General Ewell. "General Kershaw has reported that the enemy was moving up the river all night, infantry, cavalry, and artillery, crossing from this to the other side....It is very important to know what is on this side of the river. General Anderson has been instructed to advance his skirmishers cautiously, with a view of ascertaining what is in his front. You are desired to do the same."

TAYLORSVILLE, May 26, 1864. (Received 8.30.) - Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR: The enemy has made no demonstration against our position to-day. From present indications he seems to contemplate a movement on our left flank....A column of infantry is said to have moved from the White House, by Beulah Church, toward Chesterfield, supposed to be dismounted men of General Sheridan's command....The enemy's superiority in cavalry will, I fear, enable him to do us much injury. General Sheridan's command has rejoined General Grant....R. E. LEE.

"Cump" Sherman spends most of the day probing the Rebel defenses in his front. He reports, "I have personally reconnoitered the ground and am satisfied that the enemy hold by hastily constructed rifle-pits the line of a creek, which is a branch of Pumpkin Vine and parallel with it....Our skirmishing to-day has been comparatively harmless. I doubt if we find the enemy to-morrow." In an effort to cut Joe Johnston's army off from the railroad, Sherman plans to launch an attack towards Pickett's Mill. "To-morrow morning early all the batteries of Generals Hooker's, Howard's, and Schofield's corps which can be put in position will open on the works of the enemy and will keep up a persistent fire until 9 a.m....General Thomas will at l0 a.m. wheel General Howard's corps to the right, advancing the left to the south, on the east side of the cleared valley in our front, to the commanding promontory which commands the Marietta road....General Hooker will if possible carry some one or more points of the enemy's works to his immediate front. All the army will be held ready to follow up the advantages gained by this movement....General McPherson will make a junction with General Davis at or near Dallas and will then move straight toward the enemy at New Hope Church, and make, connection with General Hooker's right."

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, Dallas, May 26, 1864---8.40 p.m. - Major-General SHERMAN, Comdg. Military Division of the Mississippi: - GENERAL: We entered this place shortly before 2 p.m. to-day, General Davis' skirmishers and my own coming in about the same time. It was 10.30 to-day before General Dodge's command got across Pumpkin Vine Creek, although a portion of his command marched nearly all night. As soon as he was up we moved forward, the Fifteenth Army Corps by the road leading from Pumpkin Vine Church, and General Dodge by the direct road from Van Wert. I do not think there was anything but cavalry in town, and we entered it after a very little skirmishing, but, on moving out to our present position on the Marietta road, we found the enemy apparently in strong force; also on the Villa Rica road. I shall move against them in the morning. The direction of my advance and the nature of it will depend very materially upon the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major-General.

Other activity reported on this date:
Injured in a fall from his horse, Gen. Schofield was temporarily replaced by Gen. Jacob Cox as commander of the Army of the Ohio.
Affair on Lane's Prairie, Marin County, MO. Sgt. Legrand Carter and 4 men from the 2nd Wisconsin Cav. were attacked and killed by bushwhackers.
Gen. J.G. Foster assumed command of the Department of the South.
Destruction of U.S. transport Boston at Chapman's Fort, Ashepoo River, SC.
Advance of the Union forces under command of Maj. Gen. David Hunter from Cedar Creek, VA.
Union destruction of R.F.&P. Railroad near Chesterfield, VA.


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May 27 1864 (Friday)

U.S. Grant breathes a sigh of relief after General Hancock reports, at 2:00 a.m., that most of his men are safely on the north side of the North Anna, and that he has "ordered that the withdrawal of the pickets to commence at once." Grant is also pleased to learn that Phil Sheridan, his cavalry now back with the Army of the Potomac, has been able to secure a crossing over the Pamunkey River. From Hanovertown, "Little Phil" reports, "The crossing was taken with but little opposition, a small picket of cavalry being the only force found at this point. The two pontoon bridges, are down and in use." General Lee is surprised to discover Grant's army moving downstream. He reports, "The enemy retired to the north side of the North Anna last night. A portion of his force is still visible on the north bank, but cavalry and infantry have crossed at Hanovertown. I have sent the cavalry in that direction to check the movement, and will move the army to Ashland." Orders are quickly sent to General Anderson. "General Lee wishes you to move without halting...to Half Sink or its vicinity, anywhere near Atlee's Station where you can obtain good water. General Early, Second Corps, will be near Totopotomoy and General Hill will be in the same neighborhood west of you. Keep General Lee advised of your progress and communicate with Generals Early and Hill." At 7:30 p.m., General Breckinridge is ordered to follow Anderson's line of march. "General Lee's headquarters are at Jenkins' houses, near where you turn off to the left from Telegraph road to Haw's Shop. As there is good water in Stony Creek just where Anderson's line of march turns off from the Telegraph road, General Lee thinks it best for you to camp at the intersection of these roads and make your troops comfortable for the night."

CASH CORNER, Near Peake's Station, May 27, 1864--4.05 p.m. - General R. E. LEE, Commanding, &c.: - GENERAL: As far as I can learn the enemy's cavalry seem to have halted at Haw's Shop and Aenon Church. I am moving down from this place to Atlee's, where I expect to join with General Hampton, and think that we will have force enough to check any cavalry demonstration the enemy might make. I have heard of no infantry yet, but have made such arrangements as will insure me speedy intelligence of any move on their part, I hope. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, FITZ. LEE, Major-General.

When General Grant learns that Breckinridge's force is now with Lee's army, leaving the Shenandoah Valley virtually undefended, he sends updated instructions for David Hunter. "If Hunter can possibly get to Charlottesville and Lynchburg, he should do so, living on the country. The railroads and canals should be destroyed beyond possibility of repair for weeks. Completing this, he could find his way back to his original base, or from about Gordonsville join this army." In the absence of Breckinridge, "Grumble" Jones assumes command of the Rebel forces left in the valley. As Hunter moves his command from Cedar Creek, he leaves no doubt that he intends to take the war to the local citizenry. He issues foraging instructions to General Stahel: "Establish regulations for procuring subsistence from the country and its proper distribution to the men of your command. Foraging parties will...collect such subsistence and forage as the army needs, allowing no waste or pillage, and giving to such of the residents as claim to be...loyal, certificates of the amount of stores taken for the use of the United States Government; the payment of such certificates being conditional on proof that the persons...have been strictly loyal, and have never willingly aided or abetted the rebellion."

NEW MARKET, May 27, 1864--2 p.m. (Received 2.10 p.m.) - General R. E. LEE: (Care of General Cooper): General Hunter commands the forces advancing upon me. He occupied Mount Jackson at noon to-day. His cavalry outnumbers ours two to one; his infantry four to one; his artillery four to one. He is moving on my flank, and will compel me to fall back. There is no point this side of Mount Crawford where I can successfully resist him, and there it is very doubtful, though I will do my best. J. D. IMBODEN, Brigadier-General.

It takes General Oliver O. Howard most of the afternoon to maneuver into position to attack the Confederate line at Pickett's Mill. He reports, "I was directed to move...to the left and beyond all troops and endeavor to strike the enemy's flank....The columns moved forward with very little interruption for nearly a mile. I thought we must have reached the enemy's flank, whereupon General Wood wheeled his command toward the right till he was faced nearly south....Here it was discovered that the enemy's works were still in our front. Immediately the skirmishers were withdrawn and the column moved rapidly by the left flank at least another mile to the eastward. The ground was carefully reconnoitered by General Wood and myself. We still found a line of works to our right, but they did not seem to cover General Wood's front, and they were new, the enemy still working hard upon them." General Hazen's brigade spearheads the assault. He reports, "After skirmishing about 800 yards, the front line...engaged the enemy, when one of the most desperate engagements of my experience ensued....The whole, under my own personal supervision, moved up within ten yards of the position in which the enemy was found in force. A slight irregularity in the ground gave a partial cover for our men. The second line, composed of two battalions..., moved with the first line. On account of the thick wood it had changed direction to the left, so as to come in position directly on the left flank of the first line. It found no works and but slight resistance in its front, but upon presenting its flank to the enemy...it received a fire from that direction which checked it. My command had now lost 500 men in the attack and was powerless to push farther."

HDQRS. DEPT. AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE. - Brig. Gen. W. D. WHIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland. - GENERAL: General Wood commenced his advance, Hazen's brigade leading. The entire column marched briskly forward, driving in the enemy's skirmishers and vigorously assaulting his main line....General Wood became very heavily engaged, so as to necessitate moving forward his supporting lines, and he found strong works in his front....Colonel Scribner, who commanded General Johnson's advance brigade, finding his own left fired into from across Pickett's Mills creek, halted and threw some troops across it for his own protection. This delay occurring at precisely the same time with Wood's assault was unfortunate, for it enabled the enemy with his reserves to force back the left of General Wood's line and bring an enfilading and reverse fire upon his troops....The enemy was able to pour a cross-fire of artillery and musketry into his right flank. Under these circumstances it soon became evident that the assault had failed....Very respectfully, your obedient servant, O. O. HOWARD, Major-General.

The portion of the line being assaulted by Howard's men is commanded by General Patrick Cleburne. He describes the ground. "The position was...covered with trees and undergrowth, which served as a screen along our lines, concealed us, and were left standing as far as practicable for that purpose....From the point on the ridge where Govan's right and Granbury's left met, there made off a spur....Between this spur and the parent ridge...was a deep ravine..., with occasional benches of rock up to a line within thirty or forty yards of Granbury's men, where it flattened into a natural glacis. This glacis was well covered with well grown trees and in most places with thick undergrowth. Here was the brunt of the battle, the enemy advancing along this front in numerous and constantly re-enforced lines." The repulse is swift and bloody. Cleburne continues, "[General] Granbury's men...awaited them with calm determination, and as they appeared upon the slope slaughtered them with deliberate aim. The piles of his dead on this front, pronounced by the officers in this army who have seen most service to be greater than they had ever seen before, were a silent but sufficient eulogy upon Granbury and his noble Texans." At 10:00 p.m., Cleburne turns the tables on Sherman's army by organizing a night attack.

HEADQUARTERS CLEBURNE'S DIVISION, Paulding County, Ga. - Lieutenant-Colonel SELLERS, Assistant Adjutant-General, Hood's Corps. - COLONEL: About 10 p.m. I ordered Granbury and Lowrey to push forward skirmishers and scouts to learn the state of things in their respective fronts. Granbury, finding it impossible to advance his skirmishers until he had cleared his front of the enemy lying up against it, with my consent, charged with his whole line, Walthall, with his brigade, from Hindman's division, whom I sent to his support, taking his place in the line as he stepped out of it. The Texans, their bayonets fixed, plunged into the darkness with a terrific yell, and with one bound were upon the enemy, but they met with no resistance. Surprised and panic-stricken many fled, escaping in the darkness, others surrendered and were brought into our lines. It needed but the brilliancy of this night attack to add luster to the achievements of Granbury and his brigade in the afternoon....This battle was fought at a place known as the "Pickett Settlement," and about two miles northeast of New Hope Church. Very respectfully, P. R. CLEBURNE, Major-General.

Casualties at Pickett's Mill, GA: Union 1,457 Confederate 448.

Other activity reported on this date:
Combat at Dabney's Ferry, VA.
Combat at Hanovertown, VA.
Skirmish at Pond Springs, AL.
Skirmish at Greenville, MS.
Skirmish with Indians near Thomas' House on the Trinity River, CA.
Skirmish near Shanghai, MO. Col. McFerran reported that "bushwhackers captured the place, and it is reported burned."


[Sunday] [Monday] [Tuesday] [Wednesday] [Thursday] [Friday] [Saturday]
May 28 1864 (Saturday)

General Lee concentrates his army near Atlee behind the Totopotomoy Creek.. He reports, "As far as I can ascertain none of the enemy have advanced south of that creek. I believe that he is assembling his army behind it. General Fitzhugh Lee's division of cavalry engaged the enemy's cavalry near Haw's Shop about noon to-day and drove them back upon their infantry, which prisoners stated to be the Fifth and Sixth Corps. I have not, however, received very definite information as yet either as regards their positions or numbers." When General Ewell reports himself too sick to report for duty, Jubal Early takes over as temporary commander of the corps. Ewell reports, "When we moved I reported to the commanding general that in consequence of a severe attack of diarrhea I would leave General Early in command while the troops were on the march, and...I rode in an ambulance to Mechanicsville, remaining in my tent." After Ewell departs, George Pickett announces the arrival of his division, worn out after its march from Richmond. "The men much worn for want of food, although but little straggling....The men are calling loudly for bread. I have sent 3 couriers and 2 staff officers back. We must get something, or the division will be worse than useless." As Lee forms his army, Wade Hampton, the new commander of the cavalry corps, engages Phil Sheridan's horsemen at Haw's Shop in the largest cavalry battle since Brandy Station. Sheridan reports, "I was...ordered to demonstrate in the direction of Mechanicsville, in order to find out the enemy's whereabouts..., but when about three-fourths of a mile in advance of Haw's Shop [we] encountered the enemy's cavalry, which was dismounted and behind a temporary breast-work of rails, &c." Hampton is able to discern the location of two Union corps, the Fifth and Sixth, before being driven from the field. Sheridan continues, "Custer's (Michigan) brigade was dismounted, formed in close column of attack, and charged, with Gregg's division, when the enemy was driven back, leaving all his dead and his line of temporary works in our possession. This was a hard contested engagement, with heavy loss, for the number of troops engaged, to both sides."

HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST Div., CAVALRY CORPS. - Capt. A. E. DANA, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Division, Cavalry Corps. - SIR: After marching to Haw's Shop we moved down the Richmond road near the vicinity of Aenon Church. Owing to the thick woods and dense underbrush it was impossible to maneuver the command mounted. The entire brigade was therefore dismounted and formed in line....In this manner the brigade moved forward until near General Gregg's line of battle....By this time the engagement had become general throughout the entire line, and the firing very heavy. Severe losses had been inflicted on both sides without any decided advantage to either....Seeing that it was within the power of the First and Sixth to advance and dislodge that portion of the enemy which had poured such a destructive cross-fire into the ranks of the Fifth and Seventh, I gave the order for the two former regiments to advance their line, which order was obeyed with promptness, the men moving forward with a cheer, driving the enemy from his position in great confusion and compelling him to leave the ground strewn with his dead and wounded. At the same time the Fifth and Seventh, on the left of the road, advanced and were successful in dislodging the enemy from their front, inflicting upon him a terrible loss. The pursuit was kept up until the enemy had placed himself beyond the range of our guns....Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. A. CUSTER, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Casualties at Haw's Shop, VA: Union 344 Confederate 400.

After yesterday's debacle at Pickett's Mill, "Cump" Sherman spends most of the day extending his lines. He writes to General McPherson: "We are working round by the left, and, if you don't keep up, our line will become attenuated and liable to disaster....If the enemy comes out of his works I understand you can whip him easily. If you cannot drive him from the hill, we must of course look for more favorable ground, and I prefer to hold the road which will take us to the railroad in front of Allatoona." Sherman also sends a update of his situation to Henry Halleck. "The enemy discovered my move to turn Allatoona, and moved to meet us here....Johnston has chosen a strong line, and made hasty but strong parapets of timber and earth, and has thus far stopped us....We have had many sharp, severe encounters, but nothing decisive. Both sides duly cautious in the obscurity of the ambushed ground." While Sherman adjusts his line, Joe Johnston orders General Hardee to test the Federal strength around Dallas. After Hardee suffers a bloody repulse, Johnston calls a council of war and accepts General Hood's plan for an attack against the Union left as soon as his troops can be shifted eastward.

Journal of operations of the Army of Tennessee. - Saturday, May 28, 1864. - (11 a.m., Cleburne's intrenched line, where enemy were repulsed last afternoon, Rogers' house.) Few minutes ago started with General M [ackall] to Wheeler's to see General Hood….Brisk cannonading apparently in front of Loring, and slight skirmishing along line. Blanton, of Hood's staff, came from the right about 9 a.m., after our arrival here (Cleburne's headquarters), with a message from General H[ood], who was at Wheeler's headquarters. Captain McFarland, of Cleburne's staff, who came with him, says Hood found enemy's right on Allatoona road intrenched, could not attack; disappointed in not being able to get in his rear,….Wrote at sunrise his corps had not crossed; feared he would have some difficulty in crossing Little Pumpkin Vine Creek, where our right last evening rested; when he crossed he would be in enemy's rear. At 11 a.m. fight on French's line; 11.30 generals ride away; follow in fifteen to twenty minutes; when I leave, Cleburne says his skirmishers pressed in. However, no attack on him. All ride to house, where headquarters are established at night….T. B. MACKALL, Aide-de-Camp.


Casualties at Dallas, GA: Union 2,400 Confederate 3,000.

Other activity reported on this date:
Skirmish in Jacksonville, FL.
Skirmish near Little Rock, AR.
Skirmish at Washington County, AR.
Skirmish with Indians at Big Flat, CA.
Skirmish near Pleasant Hill, MO.
Skirmish near Warrensburg, MO.
Attack on Pest-House, opposite Port Hudson, LA. A small force of Rebels attacked the pest-house, situated on the right bank of the Mississippi River. They destroyed the medicines, seized the other hospital stores, and took prisoner the attending physician, Assistant Surgeon Mason, Sixth Michigan Heavy Artillery.
Destruction of Lamar, MO. Rebel guerrillas entered the town at 2 o'clock in the morning and burned nearly every house.

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