Michael Henry Higgins

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Feb 14 1863
The weather is somewhat misty we may get some rain. We got to the post at 9 P.M. and stayed in our hut all night.

Feb 15 1863 At 7 A.M. we left for Newport news where we landed about noon at 1 P.M. We marched along the river for 2 miles and put up our tents.

Feb 16 1863
I got a pay today. It rained all day. I had a good time.

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Feb 17 1863
Got 2 letters from Duffy at Lafayette Ind. We got new tents but it rained so we could not get them up to day.

Feb 18 1863
To day the weather cleared up. We have our new camp staked out I got a letter from Charlie.

Feb 19 1863
We commenced to put up our tents We have the time and it made work all day.

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Feb 20 1863
We renewed our tasks last night. We have the tent up and slept in hem last night.

Feb 21 1863
We are building our chimney and have just completed our camp to day. It rained some o day

Feb 22 1863
To day we had an inspection. I wrote to Duffy in Ind. It rained all day. Being Washington's birthday nothing unusual was going today.

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Feb 23 1863
We had drill to day. We graded or streets put up stakes again at. Our Brigade on the 1st Bat. of the 1st Div. o our Corps

Feb 24 1863
To day Capt. Johnson was transferred and H C Barden is our Capt. Grant Helen is our 2nd and Tullish is our First Lieut.

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Feb 25 1863
We had Regt. inspection drill and parade At 5 P.M.. A detail for picket.

Feb 26 1863
To day I drew a gun and new equipment. I rote a letter to Jex.

Feb 27 1863
Put on guard for the First time in a month.

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FEBRUARY 28 to MAY 25 is Missing.

May 25 1863
Company and Brigade on inspection. After I wrote a letter to Fullerton. We recieved orders to day. We are ready to march with three days rations

May 26 1863
Company and Brigade drill and inspection. Recieved a letter from Mother. Good news.

May 27 1863
Drill this morning. Policed the grounds. We recieved orders to night at 7 P.M. to stay in camp.

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May 28 1863
We left camp and about 10 A.M. We came to Jamestown about 18 miles from Columbia KY. I went on picket on the Summerville Road. It rained heavily

May 29 1863
I was relieved and came back to camp at Jamestown. It rained all day. I had lunch in town. Had a good time. Captured five prisoners.

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May 30 1863
At 11 A.M. the 17th Mich., 25th Mich. and 145 Penn. came up. At 3 P.M. we are to start a forced march to Cambellville. We arrived at camp at 4 P.M.

May 31 1863
We had a move to day. In the afternoon had an inspection and parade for a long time. We played cards for the want of a preacher on a horse. No church.

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June 1 1863
Battalion drill in the morning and a dress parade and inspection in the afternoon.

June 2 1863
Went out on picket. It was oysters and suet Got some other truck We got shot at very heavily ........ of railroad ...........storm.

June 3 1863
Was relieved this morning. Came back to camp. All our things were sent to the rear. We were ordered to march at half passed 4 A.M. with 8 days rations.

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June 4 1863
On the road this morning at 2 A.M. The 20th Mich. 100 PA. and the 2nd Mich We camped about 2 miles north of Cambellville. We made about 22 miles to day.

June 5 1863
At 4 A.M. we resumed our march to Louisville. We arrived at 7 P.M. and took the cars to Loiisviville and to the camp.

June 6 1863
We left Louisville and took the ferry boat across Jeffersonville Ohio and then changed cars for the Kentucky & Ohio R.R. We had coffee and ground wheat for our supper.

June 7 1863
At 7 A.M. we arrived in…

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…Vincennse Ind. and crossed the Wabash River. At 8 A.M. we arrived in Salem Ind. and changed cars to the I.C.R.R. for Centrallia Ill. We got our supper.

June 8 1863
Arrived at Cairo at 9 A.M. We went through Mound City and had a grand time. Wrote to Duffy and then went aboard the Nebraska N Walters this morning.

June 9 1863
Left Cairo at 9 A.M. We first came to the Mississippi River at Columbus KY. at 11 A.M. At # P.M. I was on Guard near Madrid. At 4 P.M. in our camp. It rained most of the day and night.

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June 10 1863
We are afloat again at 4 A.M. Heavy rain all through the day. I wrote to Charles Jex at Port Huron, and to sister at Bedford Mich. We arrived at Memphis at 4 P.M. I went out for gin

June 11 1863
Still on board the Nebraska. Was detailed to fatigue but I had nothing to do. We went over to the Kansas side near the shore where the boat was smashed. We came back to Memphis. I made a raft and went to town.

June 12 1863
Left Memphis at 4 A.M. Arrived at Helene Ark. at 11 A.M. Left there…

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…at 1 P.M. At 2 P.M. we met some gun boats. We tied up on the Arkansas shore for the night.

June 13 1863
About 4 this morning we left and at 9 A.M. we were again fired upon by gun boats from the Arkansas side of the River and at 11 A.M. fired at again wounded 2. We tied up at once at Millikin Bend.

June 14 1863
About daylight we went on again and came in sight of Vicksburg at 7 A.M. At 8 A.M. we came in on the Miss. side 7 miles from Vicksburg. We marched with 5 days rations.

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June 15 1863
Had reville at 2 A.M. and ready for the day at 4 A.M. Got to the river at 8 A.M. Heavy firing all night. Orders to cross the river. They were countermanded and we left for the North side of the point at 8 P.M.

June 16 1863
Getting ready to move to Haynes Bluff. Not much firing. Up at 9 A.M. Transports are loading Troops on board at !0 A.M. Arrived at Haynes Bluff about 5 P.M. We are to stay on board the transports.

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June 17 1863
At 6 A.M. this morning we disembarked. Laying in the mud Am on fatigue unloading the baggage and we left for Snyders Bluff at 11 A.M. and marched about 4 miles to the Vicksburg Road.

June 18 1863
Nothing doing in camp To day. Wrote letters to Charlie Mc Arthur and one to J Loomis. Went to the bakery last night. Had a Regt. Inspection.

June 20 1863
About 3 this morning there was heavy cannonading at Vicksburg. It is for sure that we occupy part of the town. The weather is sure hot and dry. _________________________________

June 21 1863
Had Regt. inspection and parade at 8 A.M. for Capt Harrison. Had only guard at 6 P.M. It was cool and looked like rain.

Jun 22 1863
Some firing in the direction of Vicksburg. Recieved a letter from Hannon. I wrote one for Butler. Had inspection and drill parade. Recieved orders to march at a moments notice.

Jun 23 1863
By daylight this morning there were troops on the march passing our camp. I wrote to Molly and pt Smith. Had inspection to day. Heavy firing at Vicksburg…

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…all day

Jun 24 1863
We were up at 4 A.M. this morning digging rifle pits. The breast works is right through our camp. Worked all day. Hearing gun fire all day at Vicksburg.

Jun 25 1863
Firing all day at Vicksburg. Had a Letter and had inspection this afternoon.

Jun 26 1863
This morning we were again making our rifle pits. There were no firing of any account at the city. Today was hot.

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Feb 27 1863
Nothing unusual today except for some firing at Vicksburg which was almost silent. I wrote to Fenning at Lafayette.

June 28 1863
A detail from the Regt. was all that was taken. No inspection or parade to day. We played 66 all day.

June 29 1863
We struck our tents at 8 A.M. this morning and marched about 9 mile and camped about 5 miles from Millville. The roads are dusty deep and heavy. It was hot.

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June 30 1863
We got mustered for our pay to day at 8 A.M. Laid out our camp grounds and pitched our tents. Recieved a letter from sister. I was detailed for guard at 7 P.M.

July 1 1863
I was relieved from guard this morning. I visited the 17 Mich Infantry. Our accouterments were inspected by Reardon.

July 2 1863
We were awakened this morning at 3 A.M. to be ready to work at 4 A.M. We went out 2 miles were we chopped wood.

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July 3 1863
Was over to the 17th again to day. Came back to get ready for inspection. It rained some tonight the first time since we came to this state.

July 4 1863
At three o clock this morning General Pemberton surrendered to General U.S. Grant. The City of Vicksburg and about 30000 prisoners was taken. I wrote to Duffy. We recieved our orders to march and was on the move at 4 A.M. We marched about 8 miles.

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July 5 1863
About 11 A.M. We left our camp near Big Bear Creek and marched about 3 miles and within 2 miles of Big Black River.

July 6 1863
We were up at 2 A.M. and ready to move at 4 A.M. We left camp at 1 P.M. and crossed the Big Black at 2 P.M. A good many got stuck. We marched about 4 miles and camped for the day.

July 7 1863
About 4 A.M. we left camp and moved about 10 miles. It rained all day and night. We did not get into camp until about 12 P.M.

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July 8 1863
We went on the road at 9 A.M. We marched to Brownsville and went on to camp another 12 miles when we camped.

July 9 1863
At 6 A.M. this morning we were on the road and came to and passed Clinton Miss. at 2 P.M. It was nice and we went into camp at 12 P.M. I was on picket at 1 A.M.

July 10 1863
Up the next morning at 6. We Marched until noon. We camped in sight of Jackson. We formed a line of battle about 2 miles at 2 P.M. We struck at 4.30 P.M.

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July 11 1863
This morning at 1 A.M. the battle opened. The 2nd Mich skirmished and charged the Rebs rifle pits The Regt. was there.

July 12 1863
Some skirmishes this morning about 8 A.M. Heavy Cannonading for about 10 minutes. Our Regt. was relived about 6 A.M. Then not much more fighting.

July 13 1863
The Rebs shelled our hospital which was at the Asylum but doing no damage. There was some Picket firing to day in Smithville.

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July 14 1863
We had some rain last night which was some benefit to the wounded. The 17th Mich had a skirmish with them this morning. Three Rebs were wounded.

July 15 1863
We moved the hospital about a mile from the Rebs after they put a shell through the Asylum. The outside works were taken and the city was on fire all night.

July 16 1863
There was a good deal of firing today. One of the ODE's was was wounded in the leg at 9 A.M. I am suffering from bites. Recieved mail to day. The city is on fire to night.

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July 17 1863
Last night the Rebs evacuated Jackson Miss. Units of our horse were in town and the troops are moving back to the river. They took everything with them.

July 18 1863
We recieved orders at an early hour to move this morning. We are going back to Kentucky or some place up north. We are taking some of the wounded with us on stretche.

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July 19 1863
About 8 A.M. Charley Young died of wounds received at Jackson. He was in Co B. All the sic were put on wagons. We ma marched for the Big Black River.

July 20 1863
Last night we camped at Clinton and started this morning at 8 A.M. We went 2 miles and went into camp at Baker Creek at 7 P.M.

July 21 1863
This morning at day light we were on the road. We arrived at the Big Black River about noon and took the cars to Vicksburg. We arrived at 4 P.M.

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July 22 1863
We drew rations at Vicksburg and camped for the night and left the city at 8 A.M. We arrived at Snyders's Bluff at 2 P.M. We went to camp.

July 23 1863
This morning about 7 A.M. the Regt. brought in all the wounded from the day before. We received many more this evening. At 1 A.M. I will be on guard.

July 24 1863
To day nothing is doing. A rest is offered to all after a long march this evening. We received mail to day.

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July 25 1863
Nothing doing to day. Heavy storm this after noon. Received a letter from Molly. Had no inspection on account of the wet weather.

July 26 1863
All quiet except may have to move. Have orders for 10 days rations of meat To day is hot and sultry

July 27 1863
I wrote a letter to pt Hennon. The weather was sunny then a heavy storm struck about 5 P.M. The wind struck down our tents. It rained all afternoon.

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July 28 1863
This morning it was cool and fair. In the afternoon the wind came with a rush again tearing everything before it. I mailed three letters.

July 29 1863
There was a change in the Brigades today. We are now in the 3rd Brigade with the 100 Pa. 117th Mich. and the T Vols. 4 Regts. in all. We were inspected and received provishions and clothing. The weather was sultry. I went on picket to night.

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July 30 1863
The weather was sultry to day. Not much doing espe especially. We are playing 66 and it is the rage in camp. We had an inspection this afternoon.

July 31 1863
Atmosphere is sultry. Wrote to Duffy in Ind. and one to Bollins in Port Huron Mich. Whiskey was drawen for the Regt. to day.

Aug 1 1863
At 8 A.M. this morning we went out on picket. Rained most of the day until dark at 10 P.M. A lot to take for anyone.

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Aug. 2nd through Aug. 13th are missing.

Note: The above statement, I assume, was written by my Uncle Frank Walker to fill in the gap , explaining the missing pages. I make this assumption as it contains punctuation, unlike the diary, and is written in the 3rd person.

Aug 15 1863
We got a long look at greenbacks. We got 2 months pay to day. Everyone is on a spree but got nothing to go with it.

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Aug 16 1863
We had camp inspection this afternoon. We are again in thrLand of Stables. I had a shoulder strain and it is very sore now. I am on guard to day.

Aug 17 1863
Have drawen clothes to day. Went on guard about 9 A.M. I wrote a letter for Brittley and one for myself to pt Herron and Chomm Rembin went home to Huntsburg for 20 Days.

Aug 18 1863
Got my pay. Went into Nicholasville. Found five dollars and came back. Went to Lexington with 11 dollars. We had a good time. Got back at tapps.

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Aug 19 1863
We are onduty to day to bury a dead horse that was lying around camp. We enjoyed it. We wondered..... We drank some whiskey.

Aug 20 1863
On guard to day. Suspended our inspection. We drank ale and played 66. At night we went to our quaters and woke up 10 men and marched across out by a corn field. Brought some corn back in a hurry.

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Aug 21 1863
Men are going on inspection. The few that were to escort Major General Nelson to camp with Robinson and to come back tonight.

Aug 22 1863
We had camp inspection. After we were drinking lager and playing 66. That was the order of the day.

Aug 23 1863
The program of yesterday was the same orders that ...... General this afternoon had only a parade.

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Aug 24 1863
On guard at 7 A.M. today. To day saw a ngger wench wallop and her pups. The boys are on knappsack drill to day.

Aug 25 1863
To day very cold. It rained some this morning. Bought some mint and potatoes and had a stew for dinner.

Aug 26 1863
Knappsack drill is all to day. The feather trim in bach of the shoulder has made their appearance. Looks gay on dress parade. A time to show off.

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Aug 27 1863
About noon to day we received orders to march at daylight. I went to town to get my watch fixed.

Aug 28 1863
We had reville at 3 A.M. Got most time for every thing. Breakfast assembly call but did not move until 6 A.M.

Aug 29 1863
Reville at 4 A.M. On the road at 5 A.M. It looks like rain. We came to Lancaster and camped about 2 miles from the village at 11 A.M.

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Aug 30 1863
Revelliee at about 3 A.M. We were marching at 5 A.M. We had frost the first of the season. We came to the village of Crabb Orchard at 10 A.M. and camped 2 miles further on.

Aug 31 1863
In camp near Crabb Orchard Ky. Weather is pleasant. We fixed camp to day and were mustered for pay.

Sept 1 1863
In camp today. Nothing of importance. It is quite cool. I wrote letters to pt Heronn and one to Duffy in Ind.

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Sept 2 1863
Still in camp. The weather is pleasant but cool. We had a Co. parade at 6 P.M. We recieved orders to march in the morning. I drew a knappsack and haversack.

Sept 3 1863
Nothing doing at present.

Sept 4 1863
Camped near Crabb Orchard. A detail for picket. It looks like rain. Had orders for drill and a parade.

Sept 5 1863
Pleasant to day. Had a Co. drill this fore noon and Regt. inspection by Lieu. Berry of 2nd Mich. Recieved mail today.

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Sept 6 1863
Company inspection at 8 A.M. Drys have one at 6 P.M.

Sept 7 1863
Still in camp near Crabb Orchard. Some talk of moving. I wrote letter to Port Huron and one to Laffette Ind.

Sept 8 1863
Pleasant and fair to day. Had camp drill in the fore noon and battalion in the afternoon. Drys parade at 6 P.M.

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Sept 9 1863
A detail for picket. This morning our tents were countermanded and we drew knappsacks and haversacks. We recieved orders to march at 5 A.M. to Mt Vernon.

Sept 10 1863
We had revellie at 3 A.M. The picket came in at daylight and at 8 A.M. we left camp and marched to Mt Vernon and another 11 miles and camp for the night.

Sept 11 1863
We march to Wild Mountain. A great deal of straggling. I am very tired to night. This country is roughest and stoney.

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Sept 12 1863
We had revellie at half passed three and marched at 5 A.M. Camped within 2 miles of London. We marched 10 mile today.

Sept 13 1863
We laid over today at London but have orders to move at 5 A.M. to morrow. It rained some last night but is quite pleasant today. Part of the Brigade is getting paid today.

Sept 14 1863
Had revellie at 3 A.M. and marched at 5 A.M. We marched 15 miles today. The roads are some what better. Recieved some mail today. Got a C Jex photograph.

Note: Higgins married Caroline Jex after the war. They are my GG- Grandparents. RWB

Sept 15 1863
Still in camp. Revellie at 3 A.M. and marched at 5 A.M. Went about 15 miles and camped near the Cumberland River today. We had quite rough roads coming into the Bakerville Mountains.

Sept 16 1863
Rev. at 3 A.M. Marching at 5 A.M. Today we only marched 8 miles. Within 4 miles of the Cumberland Ford at Pineville. Short of grub. Orders to lay over tomorrow.

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Sept 17 1863
In camp taking a rest wich is needed. Lent 10 dollars to Henry Wheeler. Orders to march to morrow at 5 A.M.

Sept 18 1863
Orders not to move until further orders. It rained most of the night. At 2 P.M. orders not to move until to morrow morning. Are on a tight.

Sept 19 1863
We marched at 6 A.M. and crossed the Cumberland River 8 miles from camp. It is very dark and cloudy but the roads are good. We marched 15 miles today and we bivowacked for the night.

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Sept 20 1863
Marching at 6 A.M and we were at the Cumberland Gap at 11 A.M. It is about 2 miles from the foot of the mountain to the Gap. The roads are good and it is a strong place. Well fortified. We marched about 15 miles today.

Sept 21 1863
We marched at 5 A.M. and pased the village of Tazwell Tenn. Stopped 2 hours for dinner and went 7 miles further and camped. We marched 22 miles today.

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Sept 22 1863
We marched at 7 A.M. Our Regt. was rear guard Today. We enjoyed the Clinch River and the mountains. This is the roughest mountains yet we have crossed. We came as the Holston River and camped fpr the day. We marched 18 miles.

Sept 23 1863
The Regt. is with the train. We crossed the river at 9 A.M in a boat. When we came to camp the Division had left for Anon. Our Regt. took the cars for Greenville but we camped at Morristown About 10 miles.

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Sept 24 1863
The Brigade came back to Morristown last night and stayed. We drew rations of flour at Morristown. We marched at 2 P.M. for about 12 miles to Green Creek Station. The 1st and 2nd Brigades were with us and 3 Regts. of the 3rd Brigade went to Knoxville.

Sept 25 1863
We left Green Creek at 5 A.M. and passed through Newmarket about 8 A.M. We filled our canteens and marched to Strawberry Plains. We laid over 2 hrs and crossed the Holston River. They had a Union meeting and a dinner. I came in for some today. Marched 19 miles to Flat Creek.

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Sept 26 1863
We left Flat Creek about 5 A.M. Got to Knoxville around 10 A.M. It was 12 miles of dust. We went into camp on the East side of town. Knoxville is quite a place. Everything is booked up.

Sept 27 1863
In camp near Knoxville. Pleasant today. Orders came to march at 5 A.M. but were countermanded. We are drawing rations At 12 P.M. We went to bed contented.

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Sept 28 1863
We were routed up at 2 A.M. We had only 2 hours sleep. Crossed the Holston River before daylight. Went about a mile to supply a battery. We expected to have a Reb, raid. We stayed all night.

Sept 29 1863
We are still in line with the 4th Ohio Battery. Laid here until 4 P.M. We moved across the road and went into camp in the woods.

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Sept 30 1863
We got paid this morning. I had to go to the 1st Brigade to get my knappsack that was stolen at Morristown. Stayed in tonight but was in town with Austin today. Had a good time.

Oct 1 1863
Had breakfast at the Ambulance Corps and stayed down and met the boys. Had dinner in town. Had lots of grog. Got back to camp alright about dark.

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Oct 5 1863
Came in from picket. Was foraging for food.

Oct 6 1863
Cloudy and cool. Looks like some rain.

Oct 7 1863
It was raining in the fore noon. Orders came to march tomorrow at 7 A.M.

Oct 8 1863
Had revellie at 5 A.M. On the march at 7 A.M. Crossed the river and marched to the Depot. Laid over all day. Nothing was doing.

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Oct 9 1863
We took the cars at 9 A.M. General Burnside came with us along with his staff. We left Knoxville at 12 Noon. Got to Morristown about 4 P.M. Went 12 miles further and camped for the night.

Oct 10 1863
We left the junction for Bull's Gap at 6 A.M. Marched about 8 miles to Blue Springs. The Rebs were in force. About 5 P.M. some of our boys engaged with them. Darkness came and we stopped.

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Oct 11 1863
Last night the Rebs left about 5 A.M. We started after them. We marched 22 miles and camped 2 miles East of Raytown. Our company was still in persuit of the Rebs.

Note: Raytown is possibly Rheatown RWB

Oct 13 1863
Revellie at 3 A.M. and marched at 5 A.M. Back to Rayton at 7.A.M. and Greenville at noon. Went 4 miles further and camped. Marched 18 miles today.

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Oct 14 1863
Ordered to march to Bulls Gap a distance of 14 miles and take the cars. The staff officers had to go on foot. We left camp at 7 A.M. arrived at the Gap at 3 P.M. Got mail from F Smith

Oct 15 1863
The cars came up last night. The 17th 20th and 100 Pa. went on board. Being there was no room the 2nd Mich had to stay behind. At 8 P.M. we packed up and left on the cars at 10 P.M.

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NOTE: There wasn't a 16 Oct in the diary. Higgins had them boarding the train on 15 Oct and disembarking the next morning and yet seems to have dated it 17 Oct. This obviously calls for further research to clarify the dates. RWB rwb@golden.net

Oct 18 1863
In camp today. I wrote 2 letters. All is quiet in camp. It rained all day.

Oct 19 1863
It rained most of the night and cleared off at noon. Nothing new. Orders came at 2 P.M. We march at 7 A.M. with 10 days half rations.

Oct 20 1863
Left Camp at 7 A.M. Passed through Knoxville and marched 15 miles to Campbell Station. It rather hard marching.

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Our Division is out. Heard heavy cannonading in the direction of Louden.

Oct 21 1863
Left camp at 5 A.M. Heard that Wolford had a fright yesterday. Got nearly captured. He lost all his artillery. We camped. It rained most of the morning.

First Division (Brig. Gen. William P. Sanders, Col. Frank Wolford) (Private Church) Colonel Wolford is the celebrated Union cavalry commander of Kentucky.

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Oct 23 1863
About 3 A.M. it started to rain and continued all day. The camp is all mud. Nothing to eat. Went to town to buy some grub. Nothing to buy. It is cold today.

Oct 24 1863
Cleared off a bit but it looks rather dark and it started to rain again about 1 P.M. A large calvary force went to the front. We are ordered to pack and remained so until dawn. We did not move today.

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Oct 25 1863
Still in Reading across the river from Louden. More calvary are coming back. A few prisoners brought in. They are nice and clean. To day got mail. Wrote to Jex, McArthur and Mullen and Smith.

Oct 26 1863
Rained this morning and nothing of importance. General Burnside has ordered against stealing and pilfering in the city. You will be branded on the cheek with a T, your head shaved and stripped of your uniform and drummed out of the service. We got some mail for the company today.

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Oct 27 1863
Rained this morning. Still talking about the order of General Burnside about stealing from the citizens.

Oct 28 1863
At 3 A.M. we were woke up, ordered to pack, make no noise and no fires. At 5 A.M.we crossed the pontoon bridge and went about a mile and had our breakfast. Then moved another 5 miles and camped.

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Oct 29 1863
The 2nd Division fell back at 1 P.M. We struck our tents at 2 P.M. and moved about 2 miles. We were told to put up our tents for winter quarters at 9 P.M.

Oct 30 1863
Rained hard most of the day. We went about 2 miles before noon for some boards and to a sawmill in the afternoon. We stole some boards from a farmer. It rained all night.

Oct 31 1863
Cold and cloudy. Worked on the quarters. Nothing to eat. Was mustered for pay at 1 P.M. We were ordered to march at 8 P.M. Cold tonight.

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Nov 1 1863
There was a heavy frost last night. We drew 1/8 ration of coffee and sugar. We hauled some logs for our shanty and were handed full rations of beef and 1/2 rations of hard beef for 3 days and bread and butter last night.

Nov 2 1863
We went out about 1/4 mile on the road to get nails. Came across a house. We tore down the house. The owner came with a safe guard from behind and so we left for camp.

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Nov 3 1863
We commenced our house today. Hard up for grub. Bought some flour at the mill for 5cents a pound his price. Mail came in but not for me.

Nov 4 1863
At work on our house. Got one day half rations of hard bread and a full ration of beef neck. We got all the slugs up today.

Nov 5 1863
There is a detail for picket today. Part of us is at work on our shanty and I am cooking the beef neck and the others are daubing the shanty.

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Nov 6 1863
Nothing doing today. We recieved marching orders at 11 P.M. and left camp at 2 A.M. and got on the cars at 3 A.M.

Nov 7 1863
We arrived at Knoxville at 8 A.M. Had breakfast at 9 A.M. We laid over today and moved back to the railroad and camped.

Nov 8 1863
Recieved orders to be ready to take the cars at 12 noon for Louden. Did not move. Went down town and got news to march at 7 P.M.

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Nov 9 1863
It was cold last night. Almost a frost. Orders to go back. Left Knoxville at 3 A.M. We arrived at camp at 6 P.M. Weather clear cold and frosty.

Nov 10 1863
Worked on the shanty all day. The band came back and played for us. The first time today. Prospects for a frost to night.

Nov 11 1863
Camped near Siever Station. Detail to stack our arms on the color line at 4 A.M. and be ready to move on a moments notice. The 2nd Corps crossed the river foraging. We are about to be dismissed.

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Nov 12 1863
Still camped near the John Siever Station. Stacking arms on the color line. All is quiet. The weather is fine. We finished our shack then I did some mail.

Nov13 1863
We finished our tents even our tables. The weather is pleasant.

Nov 14 1863
We were dismissed at 1 A.M. but got a wake up call. It rained all day mostly. We were on the road to Louden at 9 A.M. Marched 5 miles then camped.

Nov 15 1863
This morning we started about 4 A.M. and got to Lenoir Station at 1 A.M.

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at 5 P.M. we were attacked and held them until 4 A.M. the next morning.

Nov 16 1863
We retired toward Knoxville at 5 A.M. Our Brigade was rear guard. We were skirmishing with the enemy all day. At Campbell Station we had an engagement with them. We lost 5 men.

Nov 17 1863
We retreated towards Knoxville all last night and got to Knoxville at daylight. We got most of our wounded. We were digging rifle pitts all day.

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Nov 18 1863
To day we are in the rifle pits. Heavy skirmishing and it is reported that General Sherman was in the rear along with General Livingstone.

Nov 19 1863
To day our skirmishing was driven back. It is said we have 5 wounded. The firing is brisk. We lost an Orderly Sargent in CO. C.

Nov 20 1863
In Knoxville and in the Fort Saunders. Firing as usual on the picket line. No advance or any movement as yet by the rebs. They shelled the city but no damage to us.

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Nov 21 1863
Still in Knoxville. It rained most of the night. The 17th Mich drove the Reb pickets out and set fire to a house they occupied. The 17th had 2 killed. The enemy then shelled the fort for an hour or two.

Nov 22 1863
Knoxville almost starved out. The Rebs are constantly shooting. Benjamine shell them the fort Expecting an attack from the enemy to night.

Nov 23 1863
Knoxville is quiet except for the picket firing. No news. Hardy anything to eat.

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Nov 24 1863
Knoxville. About 9 A.M. our Regt. made a charge on the Rebs. We met with very heavy losses 97 were killed, wounded or missing. 1 killed and 8 wounded in our company.

Nov 25 1863
Still in Knoxville. I went to the hospital to see some of the boys. Still a good deal of firing to day. The Col. of the 17th Mich was killed by an enemy sharp shooter.

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Nov 26 1863
Knoxville. There is not much doing in camp. We have to keep in our rifle pits. The Rebs are keeping the balls rolling. The Rebs were moving to the right allday.

Nov 27 1863
Knoxville is quiet. Not much picket firing. We can hear the Rebs. We think the Rebs have good news of reinforcements. There is a band playing and men cheering.

Nov 28 1863
Knoxville. It is raining. We went downtown looking for grub but couldn't find any. We are short of rations.

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Nov 29 1863
Knoxville. The Rebs made a charge in our picket and they drove them in about 11 P.M. last night. They attacked the post at daylight. The attack was repulsed.

Nov 30 1863
Knoxville is all quiet in front to day. It is reported that General Sherman is in the area.

Dec 1 1863
Knoxville is quiet. An occasional shot from the pickets. It was cold last night. We were ordered to fall into the pits at 2 A.M.

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Dec 2 1863
Knoxville. Pleasant this morning. The pickets started to fire heavily. The Rebs are moving up to our right. We expect an attack this evening.

Dec 3 1863
Knoxville was quiet last night. The Rebs are keeping close to their rifle pits all day. Our reenforcements have not come yet today. Most everyone is hungry.

Dec 4 1863
Knoxville. We are in the rifle pits at 2 this morning and our reenforcements came in last night and General Sherman is at Louden.

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Dec 5 1863
Knoxville. The Rebs left last night at 2 A.M. A few prisoners were taken in the morning. It is cloudy and looks like rain.

Dec 6 1863
Knoxville. Was down town in the city all day. The prisoners are comming in by squads. Everything is looking like it is burning in town. Was down to see the wounded.

Dec 7 1863
Knoxville. We received orders to march but they were countermanded. We are to camp till further orders and then moved at 1 P.M. and marched another 7 miles and camped.

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Dec 8 1863
Knoxville relieved. Orders to move at 4 A.M. with 5 days rations. We left Knoxville at 6 A.M. and marched 10 miles and camped.

Dec 9 1863
Orders to march at 7 A.M. Marched another 15 miles within a mile of Rutledge. The Rebs left the day before.

Dec 10 1863
We camped near Rutledge. No orders to day to move. Our chief support is pop corn. We made corn and coffee to day.

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Dec 11 1863
Still at Rutledge and nothing doing. Went out 5 miles to search a house. Got back with Pork and potatoes. Had a good supper.

Dec 12 1863
At camp near Rutledge. Not much doing to day. A large waggon party was sent out to day with the 25 corps to the mill.

Dec 13 1863
Camped still at Rutledge. It rained all day. The last of our supplies came up today. The mud is getting deep. Coffee and sugar made an appearance once more.

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Dec 14 1863
Still camped near Rutledge. Had revellie at 3 A.M. and took rations for 6 days and we left camp at 5 A.M. and marched 12 miles and carried out a night raid. We were shelled out so we left camp.

Dec 15 1863
Capt Barden was shot in the ass last night. We fell back 6 miles and camped at 12 A.M. This morning we advanced out 3 miles and then fell back as they skirmished again. We put out a picket until some action about 1 P.M. We fell back about 10 more miles.

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Dec 16 1863
Camped at Blaines Cross Roads. We marched 11 miles to day. At 3 P.M. we got in Line of Battle. It is the report that we are to make a stand here. The enemy is 2 miles from here.

Dec 17 1863
Camped near Blaines Cross Roads. A little fighting on our right. We got run at all day. All is well again. It is getting cold.

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Dec 18 1863
At Blaines Cross Roads. It was cold last night. This morning is nice and bright. We had a fire to keep warm. It was a hard freeze.

Dec 19 1863
Still camped near Cross Roads. Our clothing list went in on order. An order came in to Reenlist into the Vets Corps. We are expecting new knappsacks to day. Old ones darn near eaten up.

Dec 20 1863
Still camped near Cross Roads. It still remains cold. Our knappsacks came after we left. We are to go to Knoxville. All is quiet today. Bell is back.

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Dec 21 1863
Still at Blaine Cross Roads. We moved the camp into the woods and set up our tents. Romour is that this Corps is going to Washington.

Dec 22 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. The weather is not as cold today. I and 5 others put our names to join the volunteers.

Dec 23 1863
Still at Blaines Cross Roads. All is quiet in the Corps today. Wrote letters to pt Irvine and one to my sister in Bedford Michigan and to my mother.

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Dec 24 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. Weather is milder. Nothing doing as Baker and I went to visit supply to get some whiskey but could not make the nibble.

Dec 25 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. A fine day, not cold. A very dull Christmas. No body tight. No fun or entertainment of any kind. I wrote a letter to Lafayette to H Duffy.

Dec 26 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. Not much doing today. I wrote of my change in rank in the paper today.

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Dec 27 1863
Still at the Cross Roads. Went out and cut wood. It rained all afternoon. We played Try until late. Holstin, Wesley and Pommell off list so I ordered my name off too.

Dec 28 1863
Camped at the Cross Roads. Went out skunk hunting. It rained all night and blew some.

Dec 29 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. All is quiet today except at Suttons. We got sheep and buttons and got a howl from the boys. Company E has all gone into the Volenteers Corps.

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Dec 30 1863
Still camped near the Cross Roads. The weather is of no importance. Col. Hayden has returned to the Regt. He was wounded.

Dec 31 1863
Camped near the Cross Roads. There is some excitement in the listings from the veterans but they can't get enough to take the Regt. home. No sign of a time. To morrow nothing to wear or eat. Even something to drink out old 63.

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January 1 1864 to J anuary 13 1864 are missing from the diary. RWB rwb@golden.net

Jan 14 1864
Returned from ......... I drew one new Great Coat gave my other on for 50cents.

Jan 15 1864
It rained a little to day.

Jan 16 1864
Moved at 10 A.M. The roads are very bad, barely passable. Moved to Strawberry Plains from Blaine Cross Roads. Got into camp at 1 A.M.

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Jan 17 1864
We moved into a brick building. Have good quarters. Bought a buchel of bran from the Vets Hospital.

Jan 18 1864
Rained all day. The 4th Corps was falling back all day from Daneville. We stole all the pork and meal from the 23rd Michigan.

Jan 19 1864
Clear and cold. Doing nothing but sitting around the fire making Johnny Cakes at the expence of the 23rd Mich.

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Jan 20 1864
Still at the Semmenar. Had orders to fall in at 5 P.M. We stacked our arms outside our building and went back to our quarters.

Jan 21 1864
Heard some cannonading in our front about 11 P.M. We pulled up stakes and moved across the river. Some of the boys built huts.

Jan 22 1864
Made camp in the woods about 2 miles from the bridge. Some of the boys went back to the bridge at 8 P.M. and got some salt and fish and came back at 12 A.M.

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Jan 23 1864
We left Hatt Creek Station and moved to Knoxville. The Rebs were close on our right. The Brigade had to haul cannon 8 miles to camp at Knoxville. I had 2 horns of whiskey.

Jan 24 1864
We left Knoxville at 8 A.M. and drew 2 days rations of bread and one of pork outside the city and moved 5 miles the other side of Knoxville.

Jan 25 1864
We camped near Knoxville. The weather is warm and nice.

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Jan 26 1864
Camped near Knoxville. Went to the city on a trip. Came back to camp at 5 P.M.

Jan 27 1864
Camped near Knoxville. Not much doing to day. Some cannonading going on over the mountains.

Jan 28 1864
Still camped near Knoxville. Nothing doing. The weather is nice and warm. A detail for foraging with 2 days rations.

Jan 29 1864
Camped in the woods near Knoxville. Received order about 10 P.M. to leave for Mich on Monday.

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Jan 30 1864
Camped near Knoxville. Drew one pr. pants and one shirt. It rained some this morning.

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Dates from Jan 31 to Feb 3 are missing -- RWB rwb@ golden.net

Feb 3 1864
We arrived at camp at 7 A.M. and left on the cars from the station with the 11th Regt. We had breakfast at the place we had arrived at I had a whiskey.

Feb 4 1864 to Feb 7 1864 are missing -RWB

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Feb 9 1864
At 5 A.M. we passed a number of places and at 5 A.M. we arrived at Cairo Ill. but was on guard. Did not go around much. The boat unloaded and we got on the cars. We got on and were flying toward Sandoval Ill.

Feb 10 1864
We arrived at Centrella Ill. at daylight and had some breakfast. At 6 A.M. we changed cars and arrived at Vincennes at 9 P.M. We had supper and road all night for Michigan.

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The Regiment arrived back in Detroit and on Feb 24, went on 30 days leave.

They re-mustered at Mount Clemmens on April 4, 1864.