McNab and Dewey old letters

August 2005. I have recently found out some things about these letters. They came to our house by way of my gramma, Irene Newell, who brought them from New London NH, probably from Louis Sargent, great grandson of Julia Dewey Sargent and Andrew Jackson Sargent.

Also, most of the letters were written by McNabs. Sarah McNab and Calvin Dewey, parents of Julia. Sarahs brother John McNab and his brothers Thomas and Horace McNab. The civil war entries for a journal were probably Calvin Dewey jr.

....Reggie



The Civil War Letters...pre 2005
There are The Civil War Letters. They were found in the house on Albrecht Road, but we do not know how they got there or whose they were, or where they came from. I had been hearing about them for all my life, but I have Till now. Now my mother has died. She had taken the letters to her new house in Norfolk 30 years ago and I dont think any one has seen them since. We just heard about them. "Can we see them?" "Well, I'm not sure where they are." So now I have brought them back to where they were found on Albrecht Road. Some of them do have addresses. Envelopes are gone, probably to a stamp collector, and the writing is old brown ink hard to read sometimes. Broken sentences are because the paper had worn at the folds. Spelling and puctuation is as I found them. They range from 1849 to 1873. Mostly they are written by John Dewey to his brother, Thomas. It seems the family lived in Vermont. A large family. Mostly I was struck with the sense of humor John had in his later years. And he seemed to write alot and in great detail. The letters have also come at the right time in my life, with the death of my parents, to connect me with life and death, how we move through generations, years pass and people are still the same. It seems almost odd that these people have the same thoughts as we do; the same troubles, worries, hopes and dreams. And thats why history is so exciting to me, history is the story of people and their lives, which connects with our lives and then connects with future generations. Like we are all part of the same family (after all, decended from Adam and Eve) and the stories of the past is our past, our story. Thomas and John were born around 1806, as indicated by their age in some of the later letters.

... Reggie


So here are the letters:



Boston, 10th JANY 1849

Dear Mother,
I'm off tomorrow as sure as [guns]. Everything we could ask for our comfort and convience has been arranged for us, and I can not but feel that a Kind Providence has been pleased to favor this last undertaking of your aspiring boy, and will bring it to a happy and prosperous termination. How to arrange matters so I could go to this new region of wealth and glittering treasures, has occupied my mind incessantly for some time and when I was about to dispair, and give myself up as the most unfortunate and disconsolable of human kind - up comes the very opportunity of all others I could ask, and without scarcely an exertion on my part. Surely, the hand of the all wise and benign Provider is in this; and under his just guidance and kind protection I hope to be prospered and return to you in due time, with my coffers full and enough to [ ] my beloved parents declineing years comfortably and happy.
It may be months - many long months before you will hear from us, but the distance is so great- the uncertainty of communications it can't be otherwise, but every opportunity that occurs you may rest assured will be improved to write you.
Mother, may God bless and watch over you.
Good bye,
Affectionately and devotedly, Your boy, Horace

San Francisco, California
Feby 27, 1850
Our dear Mother;
For some time, I have designed writing you, not because I supposed you would be much interested in learning the conditions of matters and things in this far off land, but appreciation in some degree how grateful the kind remembrances & attentions of those in much younger years are to the feelings of those in the decline of life, have thought that a note from "John" might afford you gratification if nothing more And indeed, mother, I cannot now recollect whether I ever addressed a letter to you independent of those I have written to others of the family or not, but if I have not, the more shame to me, - at any rate I'm going to write one now, Sure.
In my younger years I could sit down & with a regular long family letter, and give minute details of every little or great occurrence that might have transpired, - such as, when a favorite old tabby had last made any additions of little tabby responsibilities to her interesting little family. & the distinguishing characteristics of these little innocents, - whether their little nether extremes, vulgarly called tails, stuck right up straight or otherwise; how the veteran old swill-pail, after long years of patient meek endurance, having lost its bale & both ears, died suddenly of a broken side & botty, deeply regretted by the cow & pigs, & c, & c, but now I have little inclination & less spirit for such an effort. My years are rapidly sliding into the sear & yellow leaf, & if I live shall soon be a little old man, - a homely, unpalatable, "fixed fact," & 'taint "nothing else." And when I open the wicket of memory & take a peep at my past erratic journey in life, and retrace the scenes of exposure, hardship, suffering & peril, which chiques it all along, on sea & land, in peace & war; I cannot but wonder, & yet feel deeply grateful for the faithful shield of that unseen, unerring hand which has so remarkable preserved me through all these vicissitudes, unscathed, to the present moment. Although the star of still shines for me, & points to better days, still occasionally, there are moments when its ray is dimmed & deep despondency throws her chilly pall over my mind; my dear little wife & pretty boy cling to my heart strings of sympathy in their present loneliness, & ask my presence and protection against adversity & want, but I cannot to them yet, & still less is it at all advisable to bring them here, therefore for the present moment, I must submit to my lot.
With one unimportant exception, my health has been excellent all the time I have been in California In the matters of cooking, washing & c, Horace & I have become tolerably proficient, an we can get up a dish of beans, flapjacks, beef stake, beef soup & c, &c, in as good condition as any other "hombres" ; and as for washing we can't be beat, but our washing-day does not occur on my particular day or period of the week, & presents me such washing characteristics as "blue Monday" exhibits in New England.
In the duties too, of darning stockings, mending breeches, sewing on shirt buttons & c we claim to be " ; - in fact the state of our domestic establishment lacks but one important feature to render it quite like that of any other "well regulated family," & that is, in the absence of our wines, we cannot often get up a regular, furious, hair scattering, scolding - match. Alas! for the ancient fame & prowess of the five-poker & scalding water! In our camp, they have no terrors for us, - "their occupation's gone!" There are no fair hands to rouse & firect their dread capacities.
Horace & I left the mines about the 18th of Dec. We were away up the mountains, - some snow had fallen, & when sun did not strike the ground, the latter was frozen. The rainy season had set in rather furiously & for the last fifty miles before reaching the Sacramento river - occupying us five days - we had to wade & swim by turns several times a day, & once in a while by way of change, our mule would get mired, & then we had to unpack & dig him out. While our good people at the east, are, about this time, piling on the wood & coal to keep themselves from freezing, we are having a sun so hot in this city that the shade is grateful. There has been no frost or ice here, or snow; & we have had no rain since the first day of the month, & the rainy season may now be set down as over for this year, excepting an occasional shower perhaps in the month of March. Horace & I am now preparing to go again to the mines, but we shall proceed up the San Joagrin river in a south easterly direction, some 250 miles, among what are here called the "southern mines," - far south of our location last summer.
Our Father left here on the Steamer of 1st Feb.y for Panama, & there home, in miserable health. We never expect to see him again, for his infirmities are of a character to indicate that his days in this world are not many. Death is the inevitable lot of all, & wisdom teaches that we should early accustom ourselves to the contemplation of such an event in our case, with composure, & also as likely to occur at any moment. If influence by right views & motives, such contemplation would lead us to the practice of such life & duties as would be approved by conscience, & not the hour of dissolution of its terrors, & enable us to meet such an event with quiet serenity; firmly relying upon the ma , goodness & justice of an omnipotent Power to confer upon us a happier being hereafter.
Be assured Mother, that I shall ever continue to cherish your memory with affection & gratitude; and that although we are separated, & I may be harassed with the cares & drudgery of life, still I keep a corner in my heart in which my household gods are........ (unfinished)

Camp Scott, U.T.
100 miles from Salt Lake city
Nov. 27. 1857
Father;
My impression is, that somewhere on the march this side of Fort Kearny, I sent you a short note by some chance opportunity - having previously written you, I think, from St Louis - and now, as a mail will leave our camp "for the state" on the 1st proxims, I offer you a few more of my "biddy - tracks".
Since the 13th of april lst, I have been, I may say, almost constantly "in the field", on various duty. First; left Fort Ridgely in command of a detachment of twenty odd men, for Spirit Lake, on 13th April. First; left Fort Ridgely in command of a detachment of twenty odd men, for Spirit Lake, on 13th April. You will, no doubt, recollect the latter place as the scene of a massacre of some forty individual settlers, by the Indian fiend, Iri k-pa-du-tah & his band of associate devils, in Feby & March last; well; after enduring much hardship, from wading streams among floating ice; freezing my ears; rafting my waggons, & swimming my animals among ice in other instances; spraining my left ancle badly, & c; I returned to fort Ridgely - having performed the duty required - on the 7th of May. Here, new responsibilities ensued: the post being the Head quarters of the regiment, and the regiment having received orders to concentrate at Jefferson Barracks, (12 miles below St. Louis,) with the exception of the Company to which I was attached, (C,D) I was directed to receive all the Public Property pertaining to the post, as turned over by the Regimental Quartermaster. This amount, in dollars in round numbers may be set down at not less than $100,000-. to inventory all this property in duplicate, and receipt for it in duplicate embracing ( ) thousands of items, was a work of week or more in duration. However, on the 8th of June, the Hd & 8 companies of the regt, left the different posts for St. Louis.My Co., only, was left at Ridgely - to follow the rest at the proper time - waiting, only, to be relieved by some portion of the 2nd Infantry, already ordered to relieve us. Indian difficulties, in the mean time, continued to increase; until the 30th June, when, to repress an anticipated attack upon the for, I was detached with one piece of Artillery to form a junction with another detachment from our post, at an Indian Agency 12 miles N.W. of us. My party numbered less than 20 men; (15, I think;) and I was informed by the officer who detached me, that I would probably be attacked by some 100 or more Indians - then en route to wipe out Fort Ridgely - but, to defend myself, at my discretion. This, certainly, was a cheering prospect; promising no less than the probable utter destruction of myself and party. But, I well knew that no more men could be spared from the fort, and that all the ammunition at the latter, had been placed in a stone building in it, - and the few families were also - in the event of attack- to repair to this stone building and abide the issue. Well, I said nothing in demur, but having instructed my party as to their duty, proceeded on my mission.
My orders, "to defend myself to the last extremity," were ; and if all the legions of hell & all the Sioux Indians with them had met me, I would have opened fire upon them & have resisted their host until no man was left to tell the tale of our defeat - if defeat should have been the decree of fate.
You may be sure, that I kept up a careful reconnaissance, as I advanced, of every inequality of the prairie surface; but, no enemy appeared, the junction was effected, and before daylight the ensuing morning, I again ventured to the fort.
Meantime, the Indians, in anticipation of the annual pay-day of their annuities, were assembling at the "Yellow Medicine" river, or upper Sioux Agency; some 50 miles N.W. of Fort Ridgely. Brevet Major Sherman, commanding a battery of Sight Artillery at Fort Snelling, had been ordered to repair with his battery, without delay, to the "Yellow Medicine", and arrived at Fort Ridgely on this afternoon of the sixth of July. Again, I was detached with 22 men to accompany this battery;- marched with it all that night, and at sunset, the 5th, encamped within rifle shot of the Indian encampment at the "Yellow Medicine" or Upper Agency. Here we were joined by the "Superintendent of Indian affairs - a Mr. Cullen - & other Sub officials. The number of Indians there on the ground was about 1,000, - of which, about 1,500 to 2,000 were warriors. For a day or two, no "Council" was convened; but, at length; the attempt to convene one was made, and a few "Red-Skins" attended; but not sufficient in numbers to amount to any "official Action.''
At first, the Indians alleged that " guns were "pointed" at the Council ground" harbored, or were in some way the apparent friends of Ink-pa-du-tah this band;the U.S.Gov. would not pay term (the Sioux,) one dollar until that unhung devil & all his band were delivered up to the U.S. authorities.
And here let me state, that but a few days previous, upon information of the fact, one of Ink-pa-du-tah's sons was driven out of this same encampment of Indians by Liunt. Murry of my Camp Y & regt and slaughtered before their eyes. Well, they tried to evade Mr Cullen's charge, and Council after council was held, but no approximation to a settlement appeared. Thus matters stood until the evening of the 14th of July, on which day, one company of the 2d Infantry joined us- overland - from an interior past on the Missouri river. Not long after this company's arrival in Camp, one of its privates, being a few rods outside of the chain of sentinels, was stabbed in the back, with a knife, by an Indian, and ran into Camp with the knife sticking in his back. This event raised the wild devil amount the soldiery in camp, at the moment; but, the moral influence of subordination to authority - which marks the distinction between the "regular" soldier and the apes of the latter - the volunteer & militia - man - restrained all authority or excess.
Meantime, the offending Indian, - in view of the entire camp, ran for dear life toward the encampment of his band, - some 800 yards distant. Major Sherman instantly dispatched an office and 20 men to this band to demand the surrender of the offender; at the same time, leaving his camp in my charge, advanced some 400 yards into the plain, toward the Indian encampment, to act as emergencies might require - being now dusk, after sunset. The band refused to deliver up the culprit then, but said "they would deliver him up the next morning". Upon this, the detachment 7 battery returned to camp. The next morning, (the 13th July,) everything was still in & about the Indian encampment until about 9 o'clock - a act which was ominous of a hostile feeling on their part. At or about that hour, the warriors began to pour out of their lodges - the greater number mounted - taking the route to the "Council ground", which latter was within canister range of the battery.
The matches were lighted; at the guns - the men were in their saddles; I was posted some 200 yards in advance of the camp & in the direction of the Indian encampment, with positive orders to prevent them from crossing my line of sentinels.
Here let me premise, that the "9th & 10th regiments of Infantry, form, at present, a distinct arm of the "Service"; being armed with the rifle, and using the Minie cartridge, or conical ball. The length of this ball - if I may use such a term - is about twice its diameter; the lower end, or that end which is immediately in contact with the powder, is hollow to the depth of one fourth - or thereabout - of the length of the ball. The cartridge is put up like the musket-ball cartridge , but, in charging or loading, after pouring the power into the barrel, the ball is detached from its paper covering and inserted - hollow -end downward?into the barrel; the head of the rammer, made hollow also, to fit the conical form of the ball - is placed upon the latter, and the ball is forced home by pressing - not ramming or by repeated blows. Thus, the lower end of the ball is filled with powder; and the latter at the instant of ignition, expands this flange, or lower end of the ball so as to fill the rifle- grooves, and prevents the escape of a particle of the explosive force of the powder - and applying the whole of that force in the propulsion of the ball. The effective range of this ball is 1000 yards, or say, over two thirds of a mile. It has force enough to kill at 1200 yards, but the aim is not so reliable.
I am aware that these distances may appear fabulous or stretched, to any one of acquainted with this rifle; but, father; I have almost daily practice with it, and speak from experimental knowledge. The ordinary effective range of the musket ball, is between 200 & 300 yards. The Indians - not ineptly - term our rifle "the gun that shoots a day's march".
Well; returning from this long digression - the Indians, in great number, approached our camp. The south or river side of the latter, was inaccessible to them, being a nearly perpendicular bluff, varying in height from 75 to 150 feet; but the other sides were promptly accupied by them.
The West front was the most exposed, presenting no natural obstacles to approach; and here was my position - in front of which was the "Council ground". The astensible object of their gathering was for "Council"; but I did not fail to remark, that every warrior was fully armed - may of them with the double barrelled shot-gun, and of this number not a few carried their bows & arrows also - with no other dress than moccasins; breech-clout; & blanket over one shoulder - everything about them eviced, unmistakable, a strong disposition on their part for fight. They came up to my line of sentinels in strong force - evidently designed to intimidate me, and force an entrance into our camp. Fearing that the sentinels might be impotent to restrain their numbers, I paraded my whole detachment at a point which gave me the best facilities to sustain my position in case of any sudden attack; and there, for long hours, we stood awaiting the result of the "council:, and the intent of the Indians. The latter, at first, attempted to pass the line of sentinels, but one of them, on being halted, were contemptuously sneered at the sentry, and again attempted to pass, but the click of the rifle, as the sentinel promptly cocked it, hinted clearly to the Indian that his band would number one less in another instant - where upon one Indian halted instantly, and then sat himself down about six feet outside of the sentry.
I felt that I must exercise the utmost caution and prudence in executing my orders; for if a single hostile shot should be fired by either party, the tallest illustration of "hell broke loose" would be the instant result. Besides this, being the only office with this rifle detachment, my official character was known to every mother's son of them; and more than 300 of them were within pistol shot of me, standing, or sitting in an attitude of watchfulness; and the first shot that should be fired would concentrate on my single person, perhaps a hundred shots at the least.
If any bloody collisions occurred, I knew that I must be riddled with balls; therefore, I carefully interacted my non- commissioned officers what to do - designed in detail, who of any that survived, should successively command in the event of the loss of their respective sceprevious; and then calmly awaited whatever might be the issue of events. Thus we stood from 9 o'clock in the morning until 1 o'clock afternoon, when the Council broke up, (for the stabbing Indian was with his friends in the Council) and marched off this offending Indian under their protection. The demand of the surrender of this Indian having bee made by Major Sherman, and their refusal now to give him up, as they had stated the evening before, they would do; every one was in breathless suspense to learn what the Major would now de- that is - at this moment of the breaking up of the Council without the surrender of the culprit. At this moment, I reported to the Major for orders; the great mass of the Indians were leaving for their camp; but had he thought fir to open upon them, an awful destruction of red skins must have been the result, for they were within cannister range & in mass or masses.
He simply decided to remove his camp, at once, to a more impregnable position some 200 years further Eastward, which we had examined a day or two previous. The Tents were struck instantly; the Indians, almost at the same moment, struck their lodges, and removed beyond the range of the battery.
Everything protended that the Indians meant to give us hell in some shape, and they out-numbered us nearly 20 warriors to one Soldier, and were very insolent 7 defiant in their leaving.
The Major gave me the post of honor - which is the post of danger; allowing me to select my own position & adopt my own measure for the outer defenses of the Camp. This was no small compliment; for Brevet Major Patten, of the 2nd Infantry, was present in camp, with his company of 50 men; and, in the ordinary routine of duty, should have been assigned to this duty by virtue of his rank.
I took up my position some 200 yards in advance of the battery & in the direction toward the Indian encampment; the men were deployed, for action under the brow of the table land, or enievence forming the position of the camp, and thus remained in their track during the night. The next day, the (16th of July) there was no intercourse between us and the Indians; and another company (Capt. Sully's) of the 2nd Infantry joined us. This argumentation of our force, afforded to disturb our Indian neighbors; and they sent a message that they would surrender the culprit Indians.
They were informed, in reply, that no terms would be made with them; if they chose to deliver up the offender, 15 or 20 of them, and not more, might come up to the line of sentinels and hand over the scamp to the "officer of the Day." - Well, on the morning of the 17th, some 200 or more Indians appeared, advancing over the plain, toward our position, in great state. They were halted at some 200 yards, and then some 20 of their number brought forward this offending Indian to my line of sentinels. Here I was informed of their business; they (the Indians) pointed out the man, but I directed the Interpreter to place his hand upon the should of the offending Indian & lead him out from among the rest. This was done, and the poor fool was turned over to the main guard.
The same afternoon another "Council" was held with them, when "Little Crow," a very talented Sious Chief, engaged to go out in pursuit of In-pa-du-tah, with some 100 selected warriors - and did go too.
The same evening I received an order from Lt Col. Aberevambie, just arrived at & in Command at Fort Ridgely, to return to that post and turn over the property, pertaining to the post, to my successor, Quartermaster & Commissary,
I reached Fort Ridgely on the 18th at night, and found that my wife had left that same morning, for the East, with the wives of some other officers. From that date until the 27th, I was kept at hard work, turning over to my successor the public property & stoves, which having accomplished, I departed with my Company for Fort Leavenworth, reaching it the 15th of August.
But here my cares & responsibilities began again; I received an order from Col. Smith, devolving upon me the several duties of Adjutant, Commissary, & Quartermaster for the battalion about to proceed under his Command, to join "the Army of Utah."
Here again I had to receipt for a heavy amount of Army supplies; transportation facilities; public animals; & c, & c, and at Fort Kearny, & Savarnice, & some other places, much more was added. In fact, my present unsettled liabilities to the Gov. Will amount to several hundred thousands of dollars.
We left Fort Seaveinworth on the 18th of August. Of course our progress has been tedious - averaging about 20 miles for every marching day, until we reached the "South Pass" on the 17. Of October.
Up to that point of our long journey, we had got along very well: the health of the Command was excellent, and we had sustained no serious accident. Our first snow storm was on the 10th of October - after passing the Devil's gate - some two inches of snow fell. Our first severely cold day was the 17th of October when we encamped on the "Sweet Water" river about two miles East of the "South Pass," where we were detained 8 days, waiting for some of the Gov. Supply - trains to come up.
Snow fell to the depth of an inch, at our camp, the night of the 17th, and the weather was bitterly cold. 13 animals perished from hunger & cold that night - in my train alone. Our corn had been exhausted some days previous; and for the last 200 miles there was literally no grass for our animals, and, in consequence, the latter were much emaciated; weak, & worn out. 22 mules and one horse, of my train died in that camp.
Colonel Johnstore, the commander of the "Army of Utah", overtook us at the camp last mentioned, and on the 26th of October - all our trains being up- we again resumed the march. For want of animals, I was ordered to abandon five wagons. There were some 300 supply & Setlers wagons generally drawn by six-yoke teams of oxen; and there, with the baggage & subsistence trains of the troops, filled the road in close order for about 5 miles.
On the 3rd of November we overtook the rest of the force, comprising some Dragoons; Phelps' & Rene's batteries, and the 5th 7 10th Reg.ts of Infantry. The same night snow fell to the depth of two inches. The succeeding night was very cold, and dead mules & dead oxen were strewn ever where around & in camp. The whole force, now all consolidated, marched on the 6th, the ground still covered with snow. We were obliged to march 16 miles in order to reach a little miserable dried grass. Snow began to fall about 2 o'clock p.m. and very cold: animals dropping every rod; wagons being abandoned & much property with them, for want of animals to haul them. My excellent horse, which had carried me every day, but one, since leaving Fort Leavenworth but had for some time been sinking for want of food, now gave up. I moved him along, in one way & another, until the poor animal could no longer stand, and ten I had to abandon him to his fate.
About 10 o'clock that night, my company got into camp - 4 inches of snow on the ground & still snowing. We shoveled away the snow & pitched our tents - every body & everything appeared sad and disgusted. Some companies go in about 2 o'clock in the morning; and others did not get in till the next day. Of 180 mules & horses for which I was accountable, some 125 or 130 had perished; and a large amount of my public property. However, other officers in my position, were being served the same.
Abandoned more wagons & property at this last or "Snow Camp"; and marched again on the 9th, about 6 miles. In this distance we crossed Black' Fork twice; in the first instance, the ice was not quite strong enough to bear a man; so, we waded thro' it, - the water coming up to my middle. What a pleasant holiday time, these "lazy" (?) soldiers were having, eh? Marched again on the 11th about 4 mils. At sunrise, this morning (the 11th) the thermometer indicated 14 degrees below zero.
Only part of the trains moved this day; we had not animals enough; so we have now to send forward as many wagons as we can, & then send back the animals for the rest. In shooting a beef this morning, the man who fired & was about 700 yards from Camp, missed the ox, but his ball passed through the head of a soldier, sitting in his ten, - killing him instantly.
One train of 28 wagons lost 48 oxen to-day - died on the road.
Well in this way we have worked along, we have go to what remains of Fort Bridges - a naked stone wall - the buildings & c having been burned by the Mormons.
Before this, you will have learned, thru the press, of the burning of some 75 or 80 of the Gov. Supply wagons by the Mormons.
I examined the wreck as we came along; - opened one of their Cache's (the Mormons) and took therefrom about 500# of nails.
We have now gone into winter quarters at & near For Bridges; and though we can make ourselves comfortable, (for we live in tents.) & have enough to eat for the winter, ye, we are isolated from the rest of the world, and must have a long, tedious, cold winter. Our altitude is estimated at between 5000 & 6000 feet.
We are 110 miles from Salt Lake City.
For some time, I rather thought that Col. Johnston would attempt to pass thru the mountains, this winter; into Brigham's extensive buildings; but I do not think so now.
This is the 30th, & tomorrow the mail leaves. Last night I did not go bed until 4 a.m. - had too many official papers to send forward. To-day, I am in Command of my Camp. An outpost duty some 3 miles from camp, & have- written several of the last pages of this, upon my knee, sitting on the ground.
Have been prevented from writing more - & it is now dark & I must break off, - just about where I wanted to begin.
Remember me kindly to all friends, - I intended to have written to Dewey, & Nat, & others - particularly to Hy. Blisss but I cannot
In Laste
Yours truly
John

Camp near Brandy Station Virginia
April 21st 1864
Sister Emilie,
I presume you will think I am some time answering your note. But excuses are of no use so I will make nome. The Six Army Corps was reviewed a short time ago by Lieut General U.S. Grant. I saw the [bird]. I didnot stop to say much to him I presume he is put
out about it but I don't see I can help it. The Greenbacks $30.00 came all in good shape I let [Lieut] Dewey have $15.00 our Regiment was paid a short time ago. The settlers
are gone. Now is Jack I see the [??] that he is 1st Lieut now instead of 2nd Give him my respects I will answer [ uns sargeants] Note soon provided Jack don't object. The ground is dry and new for an army to [ ] still. Henry is on Picket. He is feeling nicely. I am right on my study [over a days] Geography, Arithmatic, [ ?? ]-- Tactics Company [Clerk book] and Regulations Etc. I don't study much evenings but it is 10 and 1/2 O clock now PM. I think you don't attend school do you chart hunt. I expect is going to be married isn't she I was sorry when the sad news reached here of Edwin Harveys death you or any one can see what Liquors will do
I must close my Evening services
Love to the crowd I will write again soon (see my splendid blot)
Very respectfully etc
Calvin Dewey Jr

Miss Emilie J Dewey
Mc Indoes Falls
Vermont
Ciervatillo, S.C. Dec. 21, 1871
My dear, good "Old Thomas;- you funny old contrivance:
I am sixty five years old to-day, and am trying to write toSarah, Father, Juliette & Tarenty? A note fromFather, of 3. Oct. Reached me 26, of same month; and a note each, from Sara & "Babbit", dated respectively 29, Sept. & 11, Oct. Came to hand 16 instant. Sarah's & Juliette's must somewhere by
the way to have a "Cachlement". This locality - a Spanish name, prom.sd Seer-vah-ice-yo, is 30 miles in the interior Northerly fromCayuco - a place on Magdaleva Bay - and our nearist neighor is 25 miles distant. My self & companion a yound man, are the only inhabitants. He came here inSept. To remain a few months to test the quality & capacity of the soil; the charactor & peculiarities of the climate & seasons, and acquire such general knowledgeofthe country as the circumstances in which we are placed will afford. The Lower California Company furnished us with farming implements, team,Seeds & C.; and provisions for a limited period, with the privilege of entering a quarter Section of 160 acres of land graties here or elsewhere in their domain, as we may prefer, on Condition of bona fide settlement on same. Am in 24 degrees & some minutes. Nort Latitude - day, 20 degrees farther South than you are. The rains are due this month, and as soon as they fall - if they do come - we are ready to sow & plant & make our garden. If abundance of rain does not fall, we can do notheing in the way of growing anything, for we have no facilities for irrigation. Our provisions consist of California flour, Chili beans, called frijoles, pro.cd fir-ho-laus Coffee; Tea, sugar, dried apples, pickles, yeast pepper, Salt- &c. And cooking utensils, table send them along. For meat food we rely entirely upon venison; such as black-tailed deer, antelope, jack rabbits, quails, & c.
The Black-tailed deer are very abundant, and such fat hing quarters & saddles of these as are, at almost all tie, hanging up in front of our cabin, would make your mouth water. The two sides and one ond our cabin to the apex of the gable, are thatched with a kind of long grass or reed. The other end - the South one- is entirely open, and opens into a wide spreading ironwood tree, densely covered with small green foliage, the leaflets of which are about the size of a flax seed: the roof is of strong canvass. Our fire,necessary only for cooking, is outside & a short distance away. Our "domestics" are a half-breed Newfoundland dog, named "bye V by", and two cats of different genders, named respectively "Toodles" & "good for nothing".
While about this time, you are piling on the wood to keep warm, I am writing in the open air in the shade under my tree; for here "peter" pelts down on us all day, as if he meant business-his face is rarely veiled behind a cloud. Ordinarily no one works out in the sun during the middle portion of the day,-the heat is too opressive; yet there is always more or less breeze during the day-time. The temperature is very even & uniform, with never any sudden changes from one extreme of heat or cold to their opposites. Frost & snow are unknown. Along the ocen & gulf sides of the peninsula there is dew frequently at night, but not very often in the interior. This must be one of the most desirable regions for the
residence of Comsumptive-the atmosphere is so dry and pure. Have just finished a quarter of venison of deer, which has hung under my tree in the open air without covering or salt-in its natural condition as slaughtered- for eleven days without the least sign of taint or decay. There is no healthier climate anywhere above ground. Disease seems to be unknown among the natives. Streams of water, however, are very few, small, & far between: yet abundance of excellent soft water can be obtained by sinking wells, from 20 to 80 feet in depth.
Away from the Gulf & ocean Coasts, in the interior the supply of a is insufficient & of doubtful occurrence for most agricultural purposes, and the want must be supplied by irrigation: the water for the latter to be raised from wells, by wind power into reservoirs constructed for the purpose. There being sufficient water, anything grown in the tropics or elsewhere, can be grown here: and as fast as one crop or thing matures, another may be put in successively, the year round. In favorable seasons which afford sufficient rain, the cereals may be grown in large quantities & of superior quality; but as these "favorable seasons" cannot be anticipated, this country will never be valuable for their production beyond, perhaps an amount equal to home consumption. Fruits of every kind & clime thrive wonderfully; but for the growth of the grape & mulberry and the respective products of wine & silk, no country on earth can excel this; and these will, ere long, become the noted staples of the Western slope of the Continent. Look at the vinyards in the State of California, yet in their infancy, where there were none 20 years ago. One proprietor alone, near Los Angelos, produced three hundred thousand gallons of wine last season. The aggregate product of wine, yearly, in that sate, already amounts of several millions of gallons. The culture of the Mulberry there is only beginning to attract attention. The grape & Mulberry have my especial attention at the earliest moment after I shall have acquired a tract of land in a suitable locality for the purpose. Now, nice "old Thomas"; I came here to find & create a home for myself, where, " when life, without other capital may lay my bones in soil which was my own. That object is not yet abandoned. At any period of life, without other capital - or hope of any - than my health & two hands, my object to you may look hazardous - perhaps hopeless- but I do not despair.
But if I partially or wholly fail, I shall at least have the consolation of knowing, that I made a determined effort & put forth my best energies to achieve sucess. The problem of a home out here- or not- will soon
be solved; but I have much to do.
The disallowance of the Lower California Company's claim to a considerable portion of this peninsula, by the Mexican Govt.,
possession. The disallowance of the claim was not known out here, until after I came to my present residence; so whether the L.C.Co. will have any land to bestow is yet to be learned. Am informed that I can obtain land of the MexicanGovt. On about as favorable terms as of the L.C.Co. We shall see, what we shall see.
This is not the proper time or place to say much about the L.C.Co. & its doings. The San Francisco press & people are generally inimical to anything favoring the colonization & interest of Lower California; seemingly from a spirit of envy or jealousy; and seiz3e with avidity upon anything which may tend to deprecieate the latter. The short comings of the L.C.Co. , and the wrongs of its late pseudo colonists have been greatly magnified & exaggerated. Of about 250, mostly young unmarried men who were members of this colonization expedition, a very considerable number proved to be scrapings of the vilest- scum of the purliers of New York; and morally & socially unfitted for andy business or association outside of the walls of a felon's prison. This statement can be abundantly substantiated by stubborn facts, were it necessary to present them here. By the time of arrival here, the better portion of the party had become thoroughly discusted & dishartened, finding themselves landed on a wild coast, subject to loss of personal effects & other abuse from the with whome we were unavoidable associated until at length, small parties began to also utterly ignorant of the topography of the Country, insanely sought to reach some place on the Ocean or Gulf Coasts from whence they could leave for other regions. For these attempts may lost their way and numbers miserably perished from thurst & starvation; others were found & brought back by the natives in an almost helpless condition, while a few others were more successful. The unprinciplesd portion without just cause, refused to fulfil their contract with the cornpany. A few of us had stood aloof from all the the evils in our midst, & endeavored to live up to the letter & spirit of our agreements with the company. This secured us the favor & confidence of the Company's Agents, and brot. down curses & abuse from the disaffected. The refusal of numbers & disinclination of most to labor, or pick Mass, at length led to or caused the failure of the Mass Contractor; when the L.C,co. shipped off the ill assorted crew to San Francisco & other places leaving only about a baker's dozen of us who preferred to remain & see what could be done. I have always had enough to eat & to wear, and have always been treated with consideration & respect by agents; and they have always promptly furnished me with whatever might be conducive to my health & comfort- even to plenty of snuff. The same can be said as regards others of the well disposed. This is the brief of the matter. So, most excruciatingly illustrious "old Thomas", you see "I still live", and - let's take a pinch of the weed.
Sarah's Mother used sometiems to quote "the destruction of the poor is their poverty": this often comes up in memory out here. When I left New York in March last, all the money I had was just two cents - have them yet- and my trunk & effects, but no bedding. Now I have five blankets & a hammock. The latter, if you have a place to swing it is preferable to a bedstead, as being less accesable to Scorpions, centipedes, tarantulas, & c. These venomous things are numerous, though not troublesome particularly; but sometimes your hand may come in contact with some one or other of them in handling wood or other things, when you will be made fellingly aware of this presence, in a way to be remembered. Have been twice struck by
3 or 6 inches long, & the body as long as my middle finger.
Lets go, once in a while, to get a new & better blow. And yet, I am not all anxious to become wealthy for wealth or moneys sake. The renown of wealth, though perhaps flattering to the vanity of many, is after all, as bald as a young robins but beore it is fledged. Perhaps you may inquire, what will I do if I fail to secure land to my mind, or if any health shoul prove unequal tothe necessities ofthe Case? I should have to do as necessity dictated. Have no rich relatives to apply to ; no influential friends to help me to place or position; and per force must stand or fall, by myself, as fate may decree. But I do not permit myself to look for any dark side to the future; - if there is to be one, we will consider it when it presens itself.
Houses appear to be of little use in this country, then as a shelter from the sun: they are constructed, for the most part, of sun dried brick; with thatch or tiled roof. There Iis but little if any timber growth fit for, or used for Carpentry or cabinet purposes; where such is necessary or desired, it is brought from our California, or elsewhere. The natives live in little clusters, or small villages and these are several miles apart. They speak Spanish only; exhibit little enterprize- are simple as their habits & living and hospitable to stranger. Have not seen a dozen Mexican women _Mujeri - Moo-hay-ree) since I came into thie country, and but one Americanwoman. The whole population of the peninsula does not probably exceen twenty five thousand souls. The rains fall usually in July V Augt. & again in Dec.
The first are drenching thunder showers; the latter may or may not be so. More rain falls along the Gulf & Ocean Coasts than in the interior. This year, in the region where I am, we had one shower in July, one in Augt. & five in September: along the coasts much rain fell during all the summer months - that is those months that we call Summer in the North. From here
letter is unfinished or lost!

Mrs Montieths poetry.
19 Eaton St
May 12, 1878
I kissed the doors & windows as I passed from room to room and the presence of "my loved & longed for seemed nearer that afternoon and my heart was bleeding
for the days forever gone and I could see but dimly
The path was leading me on. So I bade adeau to the deer old homestead and down the shaded street where the branches of the maples bend over & almost meet where a woman of my kindred.
Run quickly across the way so bid me adeau with best wishes that my strength might be as my day and one of our parting gave me a look-words may never till all the tenderness & fond regret of that silent farewell, and another brought me flowers & I felt the fragrant sympathy and one stood there beside me whom tears fell like summer lillies morning most of all that were should she see my face again.
And I dared not look behind me on the tops of the mountain pines the ancient groves of birches & maples my fathers home & mine.
The orchard the brook & the meadow.
Fairy nook & dell and mossy seats & woodland walks.
Of celebration hill and I knew that part behind me bathed in summer lay the home of my joys & my sorrows and my happy golden day and I could not look it For my spirits wound was deep Lest the flood-gates of tender memories
should over my being weep. And one of my dearest kindred gave me her arm to lean upon as we walked to the wayside station. A little further on.
Where a of the young people whose parents I had known kindly came to bid me adieu & speed me on my journey home and like the fragrance of sweetest blooms.
On saddest of days like this Fell the fragrance & the sweetest Of the child Viginias kiss and our his presence Like a benediction lent and thus friends I passed away from my life long environment.

Derby Center, VT
Jan.y 14, 1878
"Thomas"; - "Old Thomas":
Nobody will will write to me - nor his aunt, either - You dont smile upon me, old Thomas; nor any of your aunts, either.
"Ladye Fair," & "Sister, mine" owes me a letter, & she dont, cant, wont - "& so-there she wont", cant, dont, write to me; and I'm getting "victious" about these matters, in particular, and every thing in general. I'll tear my shirts, - or somebody's chemise. I'll swear a hugh swear - by the end of your big toe - -when the nail is long & in tip-top scratching order - O, I'll "bust" mine - or somebody's "biles" with an overcharge of mush & molasses - guess they'll find there is a bounteous shower of - - well, something un whisperable. Thomas! Dont, wont, or cant you hear me - delectable old Thomas! Has the respectable split-hoofed old gentleman got into the coal-hole of your heart, nice old Thomas; and refuses by the end of his forked tail - to get out, or evaporate? Dont you know that I know, blessed old Thomas! That that straight-out behind old petticoat of yours is the unfailing rudder that steers you straight along the street to your desired port of destination?
Oh, Thomas! "I want to baup"! Kick me, scratch me, scold me, "I am" one with the "clothes stick," put pismines down the back of my neck, squirt old maid's - water in my eyes - do something, excruciating, old Thomas, that will convince me that you are will "on'ath" & have some faint, glimmering recollection of your fogie old brother, whose cracked butternuts you store & eat - & then smiled all over your face at him, in payment. Thomas? You know I love you a "heap" - big as a pile of hen-manure and rejoice, exceedingly - with a great rejoicement - over the glorious streak that your blessed old petticoat enlightens the road behind you.
Smile, very graciously, on me, old antediluvian Thomas; and please to perpetuate a few pot-hooks at me in case of "Uncle Sam's" messenger.
Little "Della" is with us; Mrs Davis has gone to housekeeping; my robins are wll; my hens are well; Sarah is rather wee; - and one of my little toes is very sore.
A chunk of friendly feeling to brother "Doo", to old gentleman George; and my best smile to Miss Emily.
A'this frae y'r ain auld brother , John

Derby, Vermont,
August 19, 1878
Old Thomas,
You superconflumbunctious, scrumpsyish, feminine same of the marrmalian order of bipeds; what makes the straight out tail of you venerable petticoat snap so? Did anybody brush the nap of it the wrong way? Smile , old Thomas; smile graciously; and help the sun to ripen the corn.
Thanks to Uncle Sam's mail, your note, enclosing "Inventory" of our late Father's effects, is received.
Our Fathers Will directed that all his effects should be sold & converted into MONEY , & after the payment of funeral expenses & just debts, if any : then, the balance or residue was to be divided equally between his four living children.
I take it for granted that neither you, kate, or juliet ( & certainly I dont) want either or both of the U.S. Bonds; for we need the money, or principal of them.
With reasonable care, we can obtain a larger interest than 4 per cent, on the $15.00 - which they represent. But, in selling these Bonds, I should not be willing to have them sold at less than their face value - they may, perhaps, command a premium - As regards their sale, however, Mr Buchanan, has the sole right to sell them as he may judge best for the interest of the heirs, without regard to the preferences of the heirs. Mr B is strictly honest and will do right without an if -
Of what is denominated "household furniture" , I do not want a single article except, perhaps, the "Rosewood writing desk", appraised at $4.50; none of the "weaving apparel." Of the "Books, maps & c." These are some articles which I would like to secure; some of the articles, also, under the head of "Miscellaneous Articles."
My preference would be not to sell any of the property (outside or except the Bonds & Money) embraced in the "Inventory"; but divide it by mutual agreement among us - even the Surgical instruments & c, which might be sold at private sale quite as favorably as at ordinary auction - Except the Bonds & Money, all does not aggregate more than about $100., which would be about $25. A piece among us; and we could divide the matter, I think without the pulling out of much hair --tho' in such a scramble. I would come out "first best", having no hair for any of you to get hold of.
Somehow, I have a strong aversion to selling at "public Auction" any of the personal effects that belonged to the very venerable old gentleman - no matter about his faults or eccentricities; - we consigned, them, with his body, under the Masonic ritual, to the grave.
Certainly, whatever may be done about this matter, John - that's me - will not interpose one word of dissent, or even grunt a tiny grunt. If any or all the "effects" to be sold, I will be present at the sale. The appraisal is, evidently, at a very low figure; but at public sale I doubt If we realize the equal of it.
The appraised price of "1 clock", is set down at "10" cents. Must be a hell-of-a-clock. Another article under the heading of "Books, Maps & c.," written "Graves a string" is carried out at $20.00 but the footing, or adding up, makes it $2. Only; which is right? And what is "Graves Astry?" Is it astronomy? Or Astrology? Or what kind of gy? There is "Box of Gold Jewelry" carried out $10.00 Quien Sabe.
The "gold spec's might fit some of us, & silver ones too. The "skull" I dont want - got a pretty hard one on my shoulders now, that will last me as long as I may need such an "outfit"; 'twould be very useful, however to many, if they could find brains to put in it.
But, the sale of these personal effects is not necessary, except to insure an equal division of the value of the property, as enjoined by the "Will", upon the Executor, under the law; and unless the heirs will consent to accept the property, in kind, the executor has no alternative but to sell, to protect himself against the penalty for non-fulfillment of his legal duty. Now, the "Large Bible" - containing the "family record" - should not, in common decency be sold; and naturally, it should come into my possession, as the oldest & nearest survivor of the deceased; to be left, when I have "passed away" to the next nearest of kin, & so on. Everybody, & his aunt, have one or more Bibles, but not one of them (the bibles) may have our family record. So, it is only for the record that I care anything for that particular Bible; for I have three or four Bibles now.
Most of our late Fathers effects are useful in the respective families of you three "feminine women" - sisters of mine - if you can agree upon the partition among you; for I am abundantly supplies; and if you three wanted all the various "traps" recited in the inventory, except the bonds, & cash; this little "old cuss" wouldn't utter a whimper, but say AMEN! To it, with an unctuous "go-to-meetin'" twang.
Now, Thomas, I have to stop & "smile" a gracious "smile" at your image framed in my imagination. My little black bantam "Dinah", has four little chicks, now a month old. She sat on 6 eggs of her own, (& I have only one little rooster - a bantam), & hatched out four, two cockerels & two pullets, all smart & healthy. Have more eggs than I can use, but eggs, here, are worth only ten cents a dozen.
The "Noppies" are well, & send their complains to old Thomas.
Clara is well & is very kind; and I am as lonely as my worst enemy could wish. Love to Miss Emily, & friendly regards to brother "Doo" & "Sir George."
Your foo-foo old brother
John

P.O. Box 155, Derby Vermont,
October 30, 1878
Abominable "Old Thomas:"
I cant squeeze a note out of you more easily, than I could squeeze wine out of my knife-handle.
Last evening, received Mr Buchanan's check for $250. Very good, in a dry time.
Now, about the division of our late father's personal effects.
The appraisal of them wa very low; but I do not believe they would bring half of that appraised value, under the hammer.
Every stitch of the clothing, & some other things, perhaps, should be burnt. Cancerous infection from these articles, tho' not probable, is possible. Now, for a definite day for the distribution; I propose Wednesday, the 13th of Novembe, proximo, at Juliet's hours, and at her's, for the reason that I suppose most of the property is in her house.
Some of the books & other traps I would like; but I will not interfere with the choices & preferences of articles that may be desired by those three female sisters of mine, 'cause, they've all the female sisters I've got; & I know I cant have any more.
Write to me, at once; & say, whether my proposed day is acceptable, or if, you prefer some other date. November will not be so damnable cold as Dec., Jany, or Feby; & the business should be closed up before or by Feby.
There, exceedingly "Old Thomas" see if you can get off some biddy - tracks at me.
Mrs. "Dinah" has just come out with another brood of five little black bantam chicks. My robins are well, & send their "complains;" so are my biddies & the big toad in the cellar. Aint I a man of family?
Save to everybody. Where's Miss Emily?
Rascally "OldThomas;" I'm your brother John, & you cant rub it out.
& so there!

Derby, Vermont.
Jany 5, 1879
"Old Thomas",
There's an enormos rise in the price of paper; pens are held at fabulous prices; and money will scarcily buy stamps----
My hens dont lay much, just yet, so, I cant get eggs to pay for more than this half sheet. For the devil's dake---or tother old gentleman;s dont write you may have a fit! Or any of the rest of us, are well---who the devil cares?
Dont express yourself in any louder terms than thunder--- for I'm nervous
John

Nov 24th
Derby Center
This is not the first time I have tried to reply to your very welcome note and did you not get a postal card after your brothers came. I know by his appearance when I asked why Lally did not come and of the matter., that he did not understand that I should expect you with him - or that you and I had made such an arrangement - I suppose he had so much else to fill his head that there was hardly room for more I confess I did feel sadly disappointed bu Della did so well that he was soon made very comfortable and as much at home as I could expect. I wished that you were here and wish so still with all my heart every day. I fear Della never will do any thaing with reasonable economy except I must give her the credit of using odds and ends of meat & bones in working them up into a nive and savory soup. Soups are her forte and a favorite dish of Johns. I like it too & after have one. Your cake was very nice to the last crumb and the only loaf I have had since you were here today however Della has attempted a load of cup cake as I had word from Mrs Edwards that she would visit me tomorrow. I shall expect her in the morning and she will remain till next day. I shall have roast mutton for tomorrow's dinner. The cake seems to be just passable, but burned at bottom and sides-to hot in oven - Mrs Babs made me them on four mince pies, so I shall give her a dessert. Te and Coffee goes like frost before the sun full half the tea is thrown away inspite of my preaching Mrs Babs labored with her on that point, till her going away I have given up in dispair. Its of no use. You did cure the milk fever-a pint serves us. We had a late dinner and supper together yesterday and before going to bed I had some water turned out the grounds in the teapot. The tea was strong enough for a third of a cup to keep me awake all night-so I am miserable to day . Yesterday John asked when will you write Thomas? He says he wants to fill a page to you if I will et him - I think I shall- he is all but
laid up with rhumatism in the back and complains bitterly of the climate and the work. He has been very busy all the time. Has laid five or six thousand shingles and done almost as much work on the hen house as to build a new one. He would not have any help. For the last two weeks he has been building a Robin cage. His shop is up stairs in the cold, and he wears cotton under garments and will not use any remedies. Tho he can hardly get up, or sit down, or lie down. I have an excellent liniment but looking at the bottle is not very efficancious. When the cage is done I hope his work in the cold is over. I think he will get over the loneliness then, but he feels the change of climate exceedingly. He thinks and talks of you all a great deal & I know wants to go and visit you but I am afraid the custom of giving me only a few dollars at a time, with generally little debts here and there
to use up every penny of it, will keep us so short that the fare down & up can hardly be met by cash in hand. do you know of any body who has two or three hundred dollars to let a year for ten per cent? I expect to want it very much - the Western creditors pay not one cent principal or interest there seems no probabilities in our favor there, for a time at least. How is our pour Julia. I here nothing from her. Do you fear she may never be her old self again? Do say just how her case seems to you. I do wish you would conclude to try Derby as a home. I am sure that fine place would suit you & could be had a bargain. I want you more than you have any idea of.
With kindest regards to you all you know I am always your loving sister - Sarah McNab

Calvin Dewey Jr. was born 1844, Barnet VT, Enlisted in June 1862. Mustered in in Sept. 1862. /Company A, 10th VVI. Died July 1864 of disentary. I believe he was a musician. He is buried in McInoes Falls Cemetery VT. This is only a piece of his journal:JOURNEL ENTRIES
Page 5 thThursday
Oct 9th No news in Camp.See Negros quite often the are better informed than I thought they were
10th Friday. All quiet in CampRained some. Expect to move before may days.
11th Saturday. Rained most all night. I didant get much. Marched to Senica Locks the first part of the night
12th Sunday. Seemed a good deal like a work day. Report that some Rebel Calvalry are over this Side of the riverafter Cattle
13th Monday. News that three thousand Rebel Cavalry had crossed back into Virginia they made a raid into Penn.
14th Tuesday. Had the Colums on dress Parade for the first time
15 Wednesday . the Canal is filling with water
16th thursday. Reported in Camp that our Troops Waggons of the Enemy across the river. It proves to be White Cattle - -
Oct 17th
Friday. No news of importance
18th Saturday. No Battalion drill this Afternoon most all the Boys went to the river to Wash.
19th Sunday. Had a meeting in from of the Regt. This Aftern
20th Monday. Rumor that the Negros had risen & taken Richmond. I was drummer of the day
21th Tuesday. The Canal had broke out two miles below here
22th Wednesday. Stayed down to locks all night the wind blew hard
23th Thursday. All quiet in Camp
24th Friday. All quiet in Camp
25th Saturday. Saw the 14th N.H. they are three years men. Had a good Band. Henry wrote
me a pass I went down to the Locks & Saw them Saw none I knew.
26th Sunday. Rainey and - muddy. Had no inspection to day.
27th Monday. Wind blew and rain fell over night
28th Tuesday. Morning warm and pleasant. Camp all quiet.
29th Wednesday. All quiet in camp
30th Thursday. Got a letter & paper from Home Weather pleasant warm
Oct.31st Friday. Weather very warm. Sun Shines Camp at Lonica Locks, maryd
Nov 1 Saturday. Heavy Cannon adubg geard at a distance Went to the River Washed
my Shirt. And myself. Most all . Rumor that Troops are crossing
above here.
2 Sunday. Heavy Connona ding in the direction of Lusburg.
3 Monday. Heavy Cannon ading heard. Reports that McClellan has whipped rebels
4 Tuesday. Cannonading heard at a distance.Got a box from Home
5. Wednesday. Morning Cool All quiet in Camp.
6 Thursday. No News of importance
7 Friday. First Snow in Maryd
8 Saturday. All quiet in camp.
9 Sunday. Had Potatoes and meat for supper.
10 Monday. Expect to move in a few days. Seneca Locks m.d.
11 Tuesday. Went down to the Locks.Saw Some boats go through Loaded withwaggons and Contrabands going to Washington.
12 Wednesday. Marched from Seneca Locks about eight miles.
13 Thursday. No news of importance
14 Friday.
15 Saturday. Cold Weather All Quiet in Camp.
16 Sunday. Co. & ordered out on picket at 5 o'clock p.m. had Co. Inspection to day. Camp at offutts Cross-roads Maryld
17 Monday. Weather cloudyRainey our Co. Didant go out on drill to day.
18 Tuesday. Rainey. Had r ice for
dinner to day
19 Wednesday. Snowing and misty. Thursday. Coapt Chandter Promoted
20 to magor. Weather Rainey.
21 Friday. Rainey and Windy ? my Drum head in on dress Parade to night
22 Saturday/. Pleasant mud drying up
23 Sunday. Cold and Windy fixing up for Winter Quarters
24 Monday. Had a new drum head put in.Rumor that Jackson the Rebelis in Maryld again
25 Tuesday. Weather dull no news in Camp. Camp at offutts Cross roads
26 Wednesday. Cold & Windy. Rumor that we are going to move most all fixed up for Winter Quarters
27 Thursday. All quiet in camp.
Nov 28 Friday. Weather Pleasant all quiet in Camp
29 Saturday. Cool Weather
30 Sunday. Some Rain Wrote a letter Home all quiet i n camp
Dec 1 Monday. Rainey and muddy haveant drummed any for two or three days or move on account of being Sick.
2 Tuesday. All quiet in Camp
3 Wednesday. Warm and Pleasant
4 Thursday. Thanksgiving day in Ft. Had a rice Catching a pig co & caught him all quiet in Camp
5 Friday. Snowey looks like Ft Canal broke out a little ways below here it is in running order now Camp at offutts Cross-roads M.D.
6 Saturday. Snowey and Cold
7 Sunday. Windy No news of importance
8 Monday. Weather Aqnuable Snow is melting fast Rumor Says that the Rebels propose terms of Peace.
9 Tuesday. Pleasant Weather the Col. Of 39th Sent word that no rails be taken from Fence
10 Wednesday. Rumor that Fredericksburg is burnt. Weather Beautiful--------
11 Thursdau. Got a Box from Home also a letter.
12 Friday . Very Agreeable Weather Cheering on account of Fredericksburg being taken
13 Saturday. All quiet in
14 Sunday. Cheering on account of a rumor that Burnside had driven the Enemy out of the first l ine of Intrenchments beyond Fredericksburg.
15 Monday. Three hundred Rebels Surprised and took Eighteen Federals, Prisioners
at Poolsville md
16 Tuesday. Burnside Saidto be Advancing
17 Wednesday. Report thatBurnside has Retreated - across the Rappannock on accout of Jacksons trying to outflank him.....
18 Thursday. Rumor that McClellan is in command of the Army of the Potomac again
19 Friday Cool Weather Saturday. Rumor says McCellan is (or was) at Washington with his baggage marked for Fredericksburg,....
20 Sunday. Marched from Offutts Croos-roads to Poolsville Boy Broke into the Stoves
22 Monday, Marched from Poolsville M.D. Monocaly M.D. was tired some
23 Tuesday,. Commenced fixing up Quarters
24 Wednesday. Didant have many Rations to eat
25 Thursday. Living on Short rations. Had some yongh looking beef come in
26 Friay. Had some rations come in such as sugar portk had bread. &c. Camp jewett. Monocaly M.D.
27 Saturday. Good weather cool nights no news---
28 Sunday. Read twelve chapters in the Bible am going to Send Some Hard bread home also the letters I have received. By Mr. Hoagy.
29 Monday. Splendid Morning no news---
30 Tuesday. Rumor that the 15th are taken prisioner Proves to be false
31 Wednesday. Cool Weather was mustered to day. We are mustered Every two months wether Paid or not Went out of Camp about two miles to get Hay Saw a lot of Cows Camp near the mouth of Monacag River. Camp Jewett Montgomery County Maryland