A transcription of the diary of William
Taylor Mumford
Company B
First Louisiana Heavy Artillery Regiment
Ed. note: What follows is
a copy of the typed 17-page transcript from the original diary prepared by
Amelia. R. Mumford, William’s daughter. The spelling, page breaks, etc., of the
transcript are preserved. Amelia’s summary of events are presented in Italics
where they appear in the original typescript.
It is difficult to
ascertain if errors are in the typed transcript or the original diary, which is
owned by Mumford’s great grandson, Baxter Spann. This site is forever indebted
to Mr. Spann for allowing use of Mumford’s diary. It gives a valuable insight
into the day-to-day life of the men of the First Louisiana Heavy.
--Jon
Crane, New Orleans
A. R. Mumford: On May 9, 1861, at Camp Turnbull in his native state of Louisiana,
William Taylor Mumford, not quite twenty years of age, enlisted as a private in
the West Feliciana Rifles. Late in August he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant
in the 1st Louisiana Regiment of Artillery, Army of Tennessee, and
ordered to Fort Jackson, which, with Fort St. Phillip on the opposite bank of
the Mississippi River, barred the passage of the Federal fleet to New
Orleans. At the fort there followed months
of hard study and incessant drill at the guns. But he found time to jot down
notes in his diary – how he had charge of seventy-five men placing the chains
which bound together the raft that stretched across the river between the forts
as an obstruction, how he went down the river once on the Star to reconnoiter
and the Star was chased by three Federal steamers, how the Federal gunboats
used to appear and disappear around the Head of Passes. As the April days of
1862 went by, a spirit oftense anticipation took possession of the garrison.
The Federals would certainly attempt to run past the forts. A bombardment might
begin at any moment.
from the diary:
1862
April 18. Clear and warm.
Four mortar boats came in sight at 8 o’clock, A.M. and took up position. At 8½
fire opened. All of the companies except Co. E were ordered to the casemates.
Two more mortar boas came up and from the six, including a gunboat
occasionally, fire was continued without cessation. We replied very slowly on
account of the great range. Co. B., Lieut. Kennedy and myself were ordered from
the casements at 12½ o’clk, P.M. After firing a few shots we ceased firing. Up
to 5 o’clk, P.M., only two shells came into the bastion. On the explosion of
one, my glass was knocked from my hand by a piece of dirt. At 5½ o’clk P.M.,
one 13 in. shell burst at the muzzle of my gun. No one hurt. At 6¼ o’clk, P.M.,
our quarters on fire, also the citadel. Firing ceased at dark. Shiell, Co. E,
killed and Capt. Anderson slightly wounded in the hand. The enemy fired 2997
shells. Slept in my bastion all night.
April 19. Fire was opened from behind the point of woods at 6½ o’clk, A.M. None of the mortar boats came in sight today. Our batteries drove the gunboats back whenever they came in range. The shelling today was equal to that of yesterday. At 6½ o’clk, P.M. still firing, which is twelve hours without cessation. 7 o’clk, P.M., Peter Clark of my detachment killed and my gun nearly disabled by te explosion of a 13 in. shell. Left the battery at 8½ P.M. for the casemates. Corp. Morris killed during the night while on guard in the bastion. He was cut entirely in two by a shell, lived a few minutes, and was conscious to the last. Heavy firing all night, the 12 in. shells tearing up the fort considerably.
April 21. Clear and quite
cold. The lower picket guard reports that a steamer came up last night as far
as the raft and tried to cut the chain, but as soon as the alarm was given in
the fort, she retired and was out of sight before anyone of the guns were fired.
Shelling all day long. No one hurt. Several guns disabled. The (Page
2) iron clad steamer Louisiana arrived this
morning, though not in condition to do us much good.
April, 24. The long roll was
sounded at 3 o’clk., A.M. and the whole garrison turned out for action. Several
Federal vessels made a dash and all passed the forts. Four were sloops of war.
The shower of grape canister, spherical case shot, and shell were terrific. The
morning was quite dark and it was with great difficulty that we could see what
to fire at. Our men acted gallantly and replied to the fire with spirit. Two of
my detachment, Welsh and Burke, killed. Firing ceased about 9 o’clk, A.M., and
several Federal vessels were seen above Quarantine Station. Our celebrated
fleet very much scattered and many of the boats burned. The Manassas was set on
fire and floated down among the enemy. The Louisiana was not damaged any. It
was not any fault of ours that the enemy passed. We did everything that men
could do, and had the Navy rendered us any assistance whatever, the vessels
would not have gone by. Col. Higgins and Gen. Duncan both urged Capt. Mitchell
to the last minute to go below with his vessel, but he did not and would not
comply, saying the forts could last until his vessel was ready (so reported).
Lieut. Pearson buried at 11 o’clk, A.M. About 12 o’clk, M., a Federal gunboat
came around the point with a flag of truce. Lieut. Kennedy was sent out to
communicate with her. She demanded a surrender of the Forts, which was refused.
Firing commenced from below at 3 o’ckl, P.M., with mortars, though very slowly.
About sundown all of the Federal vessels below got under way and went down the
river, apparently leaving. No news from the fleet that passed up the river up
to 9 o’clk, P.M.
April 29. Last night at 12
o’clk, a mutiny broke out among the men. The officers tried their utmost to
quell it but without effect. All of the companies were implicated except the
St. Mary’s Cannoneers. The men were perfectly wild with excitement—no reason in
them. They demanded the surrender of the forts before morning and many remained
only on that condition. About two hundred and fifty men marched out of the fort
that night with their arms, and went over to the enemy at Quarantine Station,
five miles above Fort Jackson. At daylight, Lieut. Richard Agar, Co. H, La.
Arty., was sent with a flag of truce to Com. D.D. Porter, commanding the fleet
below, to accept the same terms of surrender which had been offered yesterday.
At 10 o’clk, A.M., he returned, accompanied by Lieut. Lee of the U.S. Str.
Harriet Lane, with Com. Porter’s answer. C.S. steam floating battery Louisiana
blown up at 11 o’clk, A.M. Fort surrendered at 1½ P.M. Co. B—5 sergts., 3
corps., and 42 privates. Left the Fort for gunboat Kennebec at 2½ o’clk, P.M.
C.S. flag hauled down at 3 o’clk, P.M., and the Stars and Stripes substituted,
but without any cheering or firing of salutes.
April 30. Arrived in New
Orleans at 9 o’clk, A.M., after a pleasant trip. The Federal officers were very
polite and treated us very kindly. Left the Kennebec at 11 o’clk, and went to
No. 29 Bourbon St. with Capt. Robertson, Dr. Burke, and Dr. Bradbury. Went to
Mr. Leake’s to dinner and remained there all night.
May 3. Clear and pleasant
day. Gen. Butler’s Proclamation appeared this morning and was read with much
interest. The city very quiet.
(Page 3)
May 8. Called on Gen. Duncan to get our certificate of Parole, be he, not liking the terms of Gen. Butler, would not accept them, demanding the same terms under which we surrendered to Com. Porter, which were at last agreed upon. Hearing that the steamer St. Maurice was to leave at 5 o’clk, P.M., for Red River, Capt. Bond and myself called upon the Provost Marshal, Maj. French, to get permits to leave the city. He referred us to the A.A.G., Maj. Strong, and after much trouble he at last consented and gave passports to Capt. Robertson, Capt. Bond, Lieut. Ellis and myself to leave on the St. Maurice. Went to Mr. Leake’s at 4 o’clk, P.M. to bid them all adieu and then walked to the foot of Jackson Street to take the Str. Met all of the officers there, but did not get off until 10 o’clk, P.M.
May 9. Clear and windy.
Arrived at Donaldsonville at 10 o’clk, A.M. Very slow boat and many passengers.
Fare very poor. Broke the rudder 20 miles below Plaquemine and lost five hours
in repairing it.
May 10. Fine clear morning.
Arrived at Bayou Sara at 7 o’clk, A.M. A good welcome home. Found the old town
as dull as ever. River running very hig, nearly level with the top of the
levee, town pump kept running night and day.
A. R. Mumford: For several months he remained here, waiting to be assigned. He spent
long days in fishing or reading, and watched the Federal mortars and gunboats
passing northward—bound for Vicksburg. Thither he was ordered in September, but
in November was sent to the Trans-Mississippi for work on fortifications and
for the recruiting service. In February, 1863, he rejoined his command at
Vicksburg and was appointed Acting Adjutant to Col Edward Higgins who was in
command of the river Batteries.
Oct. 2. All articles commanding enormous prices: a uniform coat, $125; boots, $30; shoes, $18; butter, $1.25; beef, 25 cts.; mutton, 50 cts.; eggs, $1; chickens, $12 per doz.; brandy, $50 per gall.
October 15. All kinds of dry
goods selling very high and getting very scarce—thread, $8 per doz. spools,
ladies’ shoes $12.50 a pair.
1863
March 1 (Sunday) Very clear
and pleasant day. Went to the Episcopal Church with Lieuts. Kennedy, Scott, and
Underhill. Col. Higgins went up to the fleet with a flag or truce, taking a
communication for Gen. U.S. Grant. The truce party were treated very well by
the Federals, conversed freely upon the war , think there is no prospect of
having peace under the present administration. Col. Higgins returned about
dark, bringing many letters from the fleet to different persons in the South.
March 3. At 5 o’clk, P.M., all of the crew of the Indianola arrived from below, and were put in jail as prisoners of war. Col. Higgins, being acquainted with Capt. Brown got permission to (Page 4) take him out of jail, and keep him at his Hdqrs. until they were sent to Jackson, Miss.
March 18. Dredge boat was discovered this morning (after the fog had cleared away) about three hundred yards from the mouth of the canal, very quietly at work. Bond and Capers opened fire, the result of which is not yet known. The following dispact was received this morning from Natchez. “The Hartford and Monogahala passed here at at 5.30 o’clk, A.M., going up. Farragut is aboard the Hartford.” Only five transports and three gunboats can be seen this morning.
March 25. At 5 o’clk this morning three boats of the enemy were discovered descending the river. The alarm was promptly given by the picket boat and all the batteries were instantly ready for action. One of the boats was driven back before rounding the point, one was sunk, and the other disabled. The firing was rapid and accurate; the two vessels that succeeded in passing the Upper Batteries ran on down under a full head of steam until nearly opposite Maj. Ogden’s batter, where they were both struck about the same time, the shots penetrating the boilers as the vessels were soon enveloped in steam. They floated on down. The foremost vessel ground below the canal; the other sunk near the opposite shore just below town. All the crew with the exception of five it is supposed were lost. Only five were seen to leave in a small boat. The Hartford, being at anchor below Warrenton and hearing the firing came up. shelling Warrenton and the woods as she passed.
March 27. Picket boat captured this morning at daylight two men escaping from the fleet above. They represent themselves as Confederates, one a surgeon taken at Arkansas Post and the other a private in the 20th Miss. Vols. taken at Fort Donelson and escaped at Camp Douglas. They state the boats that attempted to pass to have been the Lancaster and Monarch—the Lancaster is the one which … was sunk, the Monarch very badly injured. The crews of the boats would not consent to run the batteries. Only enough men were left aboard to manage the boats.
April 16. The pickets gave the alarm at midnight and a fleet of boats was seen soon after descending the river. The upper batteries opened promptly and soon the firing became general along the line. Eight transports and one gunboat succeeded in getting by, one was burned and two reported sunk. The firing was excellent, considering the darkness of the night. Soon after the alarm was given, a house was fired on the La. shore by our boat pickets. The light of the burning house assisted our gunners considerably. The gunboats replied to our fire rapidly but without effect, their shots being too high. When the firing commenced, many of the officers were at Maj. Watts’ attending a party. The ladies were very much frightened at first, but as the boats passed below, many of the ladies came on Sky Parlor Hill to witness the boats engage the Lower Batteries.
May 2. Considerable stir in the enemy’s camp this morning. A portion of the army seem to be embarking, and large numbers can be seen moving along the Louisiana shore. All of our available forces being (Page 5) sent to Grand Gulf. Gens. Stevenson, Lee, and Taylor sent down. Council of War held at Gen. Pemberton’s Hdqrs. After mature deliberation it was considered impossible to hold Grand Gulf, the enemy’s forces being so much larger than ours. It was also decided to stand a siege here, sixty days rations being on hand (half rations). The batteries taken our of Smith’s Division and made a separate command, Col. Higgins reporting directly to Gen. Forney.
May 4. This morning at 10 o’clk, a small tug, having in tow two large barges, was discovered coming down the river. The batteries opened fire promptly. One 10 in. shot from Johnson’s battery struck the tug and blew her up. The barges were immediately set on fire and destroyed. About twenty-five prisoners were captured, including three N.Y. reporters, Tribune, Herald, and Times.
May 19. Maj. Jas. B. Anderson mortally wounded about 2 o’clk, A.M. and expired at daylight. He was shot by sharpshooters while maneuvering his battery in front of the entrenchments. Firing all along the lines on the left, skirmishers firing into Hoadley’s Water Battery. The enemy advanced three times on the left and were each time repulsed, loss very heavy, our loss small. The Louisiana troops behaved gallantly. Three gunboats came up about 6 o’clk, P.M. and fired a few shots, all without damage. One hundred and sixty-six Yankee prisoners were sent across the river and released today., our provisions being too scarce to feed them.
May 22. Mortar fire still continues. Four ironclad gunboats came up about 10 o’clk, A.M. and engaged the Water Batteries. The fight lasted about two hours. The boats were compelled to withdraw. The firing from our batteries was excellent, many of the shots taking effect. Four hundred and thirty shots were fired from the Lower Garrison. The Blakely gun burst. Whistling Dick and Capers’ 10 in. gun disabled. The fire from the mortars ceased about dark. One stand of regimental colors was captured and sent in today, also about forty prisoners, including one Lieut. Col. of an Iowa regt. No news yet from Gen. Johnston. Heavy firing head in the enemy’s rear about dark.
May 24. Mortars still firing, doing no damage except to property. Not a single person injured so far by the shells. Women and children well protected in the rat-holes. Nothing new this morning from the outer lines. Slow firing all day from the mortars and from the enemy’s batteries on the outer lines.
May 25. Mortar fire still continues, no serious damage being done. Two new ironclads made their appearance above this morning. A flag of truce was sent out about 1 o’clk, P.M. to Gen. Grant, with a communication asking him to grant an armistice of a few hours for the purpose of burying the dead. It was granted and all firing along the lines ceased. The mortars, however, continued to fire for some time after. Gen. Lee, Col. Higgins, Lieuts. Bridges, Yerger, Kennedy, and myself visited the field in front of Lee’s line. Met several Federal officers, none above the rank of Col. Was disappointed in finding the number of dead so few. From what I had heard I supposed the field was covered with them. From the (Page 6) conversation of the Federal officers, they seemed confident of success, saying they would be in Vicksburg in three days. About four hundred stand of arms were taken from the field by our men, mostly Enfield rifles. The armistice was to end at 9 o’clk, P.M. All quiet during the night. Not a single shot was fired until daylight.
May 27. Mortars still firing. At 9.30 A.M. four ironclads came up and engaged Capers’ battery, and one came down and engaged the Upper Batteries. The firing from Capers’ battery was beautiful and in one hour and thirty minutes succeeded in driving the boats off. The descending boat proved to be the Cincinnati. She was badly injured and forced to retire and finally sunk on the Miss. shore in full view of our batteries. The picket boats caught many things floating down the river. Among the rest was the signal book and all the signal flags, also the surgeon’s trunk containing one box of surgical instruments, one fine navy revolver, many papers and letters, and clothing. The trunk and contents were placed under charge of Col. Higgins. Gen. Pemberton issued an address to the officers and men of the River Batteries complimenting them upon their efficiency and skill. 8.30 P.M. Mortars firing slowly and from the appearance of the bursting shells it is supposed they are filled with incendiary composition. Mortar fire continued all night.
May 28. Mortars firing slowly. Maj. Fontaine arrived this morning with dispatches from Gen. Johnston and 18,500 musket caps. Johnston’s army is at Canton and will soon move to our relief. Bragg will form a junction with him. Heavy firing on the left at intervals during the day. Mortars fired slowly during the night.
June 14. Service held in the Episcopal Church this morning. Some few ladies were present. Mortar fire still continues. From 7 A.M. today until dark two hundred and eighteen shell were fired. No serious damage was done. Two couriers arrived this morning with dispatches from Gen. Johnston, and two hundred thousand percussion caps. Four guns in the Upper Batteries opened fire at 4.30 o’clk P.M. on the wreck of the ironclad gunboat Cincinnati. The effect could not be seen. The fire along the lines about dark was quite heavy. An expedition of fifty men in boats under Lieut. Wilkinson, 1st Mo. Cavalry, left at 10 o’clk, P.M. to burn the wreck of the gunboat Cincinnati. When near the boat, they were hailed, and, supposing the enemy on shore to be vastly superior to themselves in numbers, they returned without firing a gun. The expedition was a complete failure.
June 21. One courier arrived this morning before daylight with dispatches from Gen. Johnston. He left Canton one week since and found great difficulty in reaching this place—floated down the river from Steel’s bayou—was seven hours in the water. All the batteries on the La. Shore are silent this morning; no firing on the lines. The following signal dispatch from Admiral Porter was intercepted today: Col. Wood—I will be under great obligations to you if you will take off the … guns of the Cincinnati. I will furnish the ammunition and implements. Signed, Porter. The 10 in. (page 7) 9 in., 8 in., and rifled guns of the Upper Batteries opened fire on the Cincinnati at 5 P.M. and continued at intervals during the night. River rising slowly.
June 24. Two small rifle pieces on the La. shore opened at 7 A.M. on the town. One shot struck Paxton’s Machine Shop, injuring some of the machinery. Our batteries opened fire with effect. Mortars fired during the day. At 3 o’clk, all the mortars and two guns on the Peninsula opened fire on the Water Battery (below) and continued firing until dark. No damage done. The small Parrotts from the La. shore fired upon the town during the day. Mortars fired all night. One hundred and seventy-seven shell were fired from dark until daylight. One dispatch from Grant to Porter, and Porter’s answer, were intercepted today, the exact purport not being made known. An attack anticipated.
June 25. Mortars fired all day. The fire a 9 in. Dahlgren on the La. shore was very annoying. As far as ascertained, no one was hurt. The Yankees sprang two mines near the Jackson road late in the evening—3 killed and 12 wounded. A charge was expected but none was made. Heavy firing in the rear was heard late in the evening. Mortars fired very rapidly during the night. Most of the shells passed over the city and exploded in the neighborhood of the trenches. Three guns in the Upper Battery fired all night at the Cincinnati. Whig Office gun fired at irregular intervals during the night at working parties on the La. shore. Had mule for dinner, first time.
June 30. Clear and very warm. Very little firing during the day. Twenty-five mules slaughtered. No relief yet from Johnston—every one beginning to give up all hope. The spirits of the men sinking rapidly. The ration issued now is scarcely enough to sustain life. The men eat mule meat very readily, it being much better than the poor beef that has heretofore been issued. Rats are selling a three dollars apiece, flour at $500 per bbl. We can last only a few days longer. 40,000 lbs. of bacon were stored away this morning to be issued in case we attempt to cut our way through the enemy’s lines. Two couriers left after dark with dispatches from Gen. Pemberton to Gen. Johnston. Very quiet all night.
July 1. Clear and very warm. Three gunboats below shelled the woods in the vicinity of Capers’ battery all the morning. The Yankees sprang a mine on Gen. Hebert’s line, many killed and wounded. Mortars fired a few shells during the night. The supply of flour gave out today.
July 3. Quite heavy firing during the morning from the guns on the La. shore. A flag of truce was sent during the morning with a communication from Gen. Pemberton to Gen. Grant on the subject of surrendering the city. The answer from Gen. G. soon came back. A council of war was called and did not adjourn until very late at night. The communications were sent to Gen. Grant during the night. The truce lasted all night. Not a single shot was fired. It was the first quiet night we have had in a long time.
July 4. Clear and warm. City surrendered at 10 o’clk, A.M. (Page 8) Officers and men all to be paroled, officers allowed to take out side arms and baggage—men, baggage only. Gen. Grant and staff entered the city about 11 o’clk, A.M. The fleet from above and below came in about the same hour and landed in front of town. The city was crowded all day with Yankee troops. The sores on Washington St. were all sacked. None of the Confederate soldiers left town today. Many of the officers were paroled late in the evening. Fireworks were displayed at night.
July 5. Col Higgins and staff paroled at 10.30 A.M. None of the Confederate soldiers allowed to leave town yet. Federals issued full rations to Confederates. Several rows took place on the lines between Yankees and Confederates. Several men were killed and wounded.
July 8. 1st La. Arty., 8th La. Batt., 23 La. Vols., 1st Tenn Arty, and Vaiden Arty. were paroled today (Higgins’ Brigade). Orders were issued for the brigade to move at daylight tomorrow morning. Everything was got in readiness. Three days’ rations were issued to the brigade by the Federals. The column was to be formed in front of these Hdqrs. (Crawford St.) at 5 A.M., 1st La. Arty. to occupy the extreme right, and Grayson’s company (Co. A, 1st La. Arty) to be the rear guard. 1st Tenn. Arty. to occupy the extreme left. Was up nearly all night, issuing orders and preparing to leave.
July 9. Orders were issued very early this morning countermanding the marching orders of the brigade. The men and officers were very much disappointed, all being very anxious to leave ad get within Confederate lines.
July 11. Higgins’ Brigade formed on Crawford St. at 4 A.M. and took up its line of march for Raymond, Miss. Near the trenches the brigade was halted by several Federal officers, the roll of every company was called and verified, each man showed his parole, and passed out. The day was very warm; the troops stood the march very well. The first halt was on Mount Alburn, eight miles from Vicksburg. The troops rested there from 10.30 A.M. to 5 P.M. Arrived at the Big Black River about dark and camped there for the night. Very bad camping ground—very little wood and very bad water. The march was very irregular, the men straggled very much, officers paid very little attention to the men. Most of the officers were mounted. Roads very fine—no dust. Little rain during the night.
A. R. Mumford: The army made its way to Enterprise, Miss., arriving there much disorganized. Lieut. Mumford, Lieut. Agar, and several other young officers, having been granted a furlough, started on horseback for Alabama. It must have a care free, happy-go-lucky trip, in welcome contrast to their recent life in Vicksburg. Along the way, too, they were able to buy plenty of fresh eggs, butter, and chickens, and they found apples, figs, and peaches in great abundance. They engaged board at the home of Gen. Sturdivant, near Livingston, Alabama, and there they enjoyed long days of leisure and peace. In September, the 1st La. Regt. of Arty. was ordered to Mobile. Lieut. Mumford (Page 9) rejoined his command, but his health was much impaired as a result of the hardships he had undergone. His furlough was extended and he went to visit friends in Clayton, Alabama. The trip did not benefit him, as his physician had hoped; in December he became a patient in Providence Infirmary in Mobile.
December 21. Being in very poor health and getting worse every day, I called on Dr. Fenner and placed myself under his care at the Louisiana Hospital (Providence Infirmary). Went to the hospital in the evening and was placed in a very comfortable room (No. 4, first floor) by one of the Sisters of Charity. Was very much pleased with the arrangements of the hospital, having everything that a sick man could wish for. No. 4 is nicely carpeted and splendidly furnished and plenty of books to read on the center table—terms, seven dollars per day including fire, lights, board, medicine, and doctor’s services. Spent a comfortable night.
December 31. Improving in health, getting more dolor and stronger. Lieut. Agar spent the evening with me. The last day of the year—who will be present to record what happens on the 31st of December, 1864? This closing year will show many bright pages in history. Although our losses have been heavy, more than any previous year, we are still confident of the final result as ever.
1864
January 19. Still in Louisiana Hospital and getting very tired of it. Not yet able to report for duty. An attack on the city expected and preparations being made to resist it. One brigade from the Army of Tenn. expected arrive tomorrow. 1st La. Arty. still in redoubts Nos. 8 and 9, very uncomfortably situated. Confederate currency at about its lowest ebb. Prices for everything are enormous—board, $12 per day; uniform suit, $750; boots, $250; shoes, $90; caps, $25; sugar, $3.50; coffee, $15; flour, $140; bacon, $3.50; tallow candles, $6; oysters, $2 per doz.; whiskey, $30 per pint; gold $17.50 to $19.00 for ‘one’.
February 3(?). Reported for duty. Was assigned to Co. G, 1st La. Arty., stationed at Redoubt No. 6.
May 6. Invited to a picnic at Spring Hill, but did not attend on account of sickness. Received good news from Virginia. Very short rations being issued now, as short as during the siege of Vicksburg—no fresh meat and only 3½ lbs. of flour per month, 1½ lbs. of meal daily, 1/3 lb. of bacon daily. Money getting scarce, five dollar bills put on a par with the denominations of the old issue.
May 10. Received orders to report to Lieut. Col. Beltzhoover, Comdg. School of Practice for Artillerests, Mobile, Ala.
May 24. Eleven blockaders in sight off the entrance to the bay. Confederate fleet expected to attack them tonight.
May 25. Admiral Buchanan declined to attack the fleet, they (page 10) being too strong for him, thirteen vessels in all. Still seting as instructor at the Arty. School of Practice on Government St. The officers of all the different companies very much dissatisfied.
May 30. Arty. School on Government St. still in session, a general change of the classes today. Col. Beltzhoover taking the class of officers, Maj. Rice the non. com. off. and Lieut. Gaines and myself the privates.
June 7. Str. Denbeigh arrived from Havana. She was hotly chased and obliged to throw over a part of her cargo. The instruments for the band of the 1st La. Arty. arrived on Str. Denbeigh.
June 27. Arty School on Government St. dismissed this morning, the school to be removed to Dauphin Island, where the next session will commence, so soon as the necessary preparations can be made.
June 28. Left Mobile at 5 o’clk, A.M. on Str. Dick Keys, in company with Lieut. Col. Beltzhoover, Lieuts. Agar and Gaines, Sergt. Miles and Eddie McConnell for a fist to Forts Morgan, Gaines, and Powell. Arrived at Fort Gaines about 9 o’clk, A.M. Was much disappointed with the appearance of the fort. The armament is very light, especially on the land side. Fort Morgan is much stronger than Gaines, but not near so clean. We found the citadel very dirty. Owing to the very low tide, we did not go ashore at Fort Powell. Thirteen Yankee blockading vessels were in full view, five of them being frigates. Left Fort Powell at 4 o’clk, P.M. and reached the city at 7 o’clk. P.M., very tired and sleepy.
July 5. At 3 o’clk, P.M. the regiment received orders to march at 3 A.M. in the morning for Meridian, to report to Lieut. Gen. Lee. Five days cooked rations and one hundred rounds of ammunition per man were ordered to be taken. Lieut. J.D. Scott is detailed to take charge of the land and attend to the wants of the men. I am detailed to take charge of all regimental property and arrest and send forward all stragglers who may remain in the city. The order was very unexpected. The regiment is sent up to assist in repelling the raid from Vicksburg. Mobile is left almost without a corporal’s guard, the 1st. Miss. being sent up also to Meridian.
July 18. 1st La. Arty and 1st Miss. Arty. arrived this morning from Tupelo. No lives were lost, the regiment not being engaged in the fight Several officers and men were left behind, broken down, among the number, Lieut. Col. Daniel Beltzhoover.
July 20. The 1st La. Arty. and 1st Miss. Lt. Arty. received orders to report to Lieut. Gen. S.D. Lee at Meridian Miss., to leave on the 4 P.M. train. The 1st La. Arty. formed on Gov’t. St. at 3 P.M. and marched to the depot of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, Col. Chas. A. Fuller, Comdg. The regiment was very small, owing to the men being so badly used up on the former trip. Not being able to take the field, I was again placed in charge of the regimental camp and government property belonging to the regiment, and to collect and forward all stragglers. Received intelligence that Lt. Gen. Joe E. Johnston had been relieved by Lt. Gen. J.B. Hood of the command of the Army of Tenn. by orders of the War Department
(Page 11)
August 5. heaving firing heard below this morning, early. Gen. Page telegraphed about 10 o’clock, A.M. from Fort Morgan, saying the fighting was still going on. One monitor (the Tesumseh) was sunk under the guns of the fort. About 11 o’clk, A.M. another dispatch was received, saying the fleet had passed the Forts, our vessels had all been sunk, and the Tennessee after a gallant fight, was compelled to surrender. Admiral Buchanan was aboard. The dispatch created great excitement in town. The alarm bell was soon rung, and crowds turned out to receive arms. The vessels are reported off Point Clear, none having yet come within sight of the city. 5 P.M. The citizens and a few convalescent soldiers are all who are to defend the city. Every man who could be spared was sent to Fort Gaines last night.
August 6. No vessels yet in sight of the city. Several reported at Dog River bar. C.S. Steamer Morgan arrived from Fort Morgan early in the morning having eluded the Federal vessels. The 1st La. Regt. Arty. arrived today from Montgomery and took position on the line, from Redoubt No. 1 to No. 6 inclusive. Received a box of sugar from home today. Co. B sent to Battery Gladden. Fort Powell was evacuated last night. Gaines and Morgan still hold out.
August 8. Received intelligence of the surrender of Fort Gaines. Col. Anderson surrendered against the positive orders of Brig. Gen. Page. Removed deposit from Bank of Mobile. Discounted an 8% $1000 bond, receiving for it $850, new issue. Preparations being made for an attack by land, all the batteries being put in thorough order.
August 13. Deposited with Mr. Pierce, Jeweler, Cor. Dauphin and Commerce Sts., for safe keeping a sealed package containing Confederate 8% bonds, payable in 1868, amounting to three thousand four hundred dollars. Two of the enemy’s vessels reported in sight of the city. Bought a pair of boots for $200. Spent the day in the city and dined at Mrs. McConnell’s. Nearly all the stores in the city closed—prices on all articles advancing, especially provisions—flour having gone up to $300. Gen. Maury issued orders for all officers having families in the city to send them out immediately. All persons living in houses in front of the outer line to vacate immediately. All the trees within one thousand yards of the lines to be cut down. Every preparation being made for an attack. No information on the enemy having landed any forces.
August 26. A flag of truce came up this morning from the fleet and confirmed the reports of the surrender of Fort Morgan. Four hundred and eighty-one men were taken prisoner and sent to New Orleans. Received orders at 1.30 P.M. to report to Co. G, 1st La. Arty. to Maj. W. C. Capers at Battery McIntosh. The company left at 3 P.M. on Str. Gunnison. I remained behind to bring on the stragglers and company baggage. Only one company of the 1st La. remaining in Mobile. Five Yankee gunboats in sight of the city.
August 27. Reported for duty to Maj. W.C. Capers. Three companies of the 1st La. Arty. and one of the Miss. Lt. Arty. compose the garrison of the battery, seven 10 in. columbiads its (Page 12) armament. The quarters are not very good and are very much crowded. The water is very bad and very unhealthy. Most of the garrison are suffering from diorrhoea. The battery is in good order and can make a good fight against the gunboats. It might however be taken very easily on a dark night with launches. Five gunboats in sight at dark.
Sept. 5. Received intelligence of the evacuation of Atlanta—a very hard blow to the Confederacy. Hood’s army supposed to be in a very critical position. Chalmers’ cavalry arrived in Mobile today. Commenced work to enlarge the battery in order to mount three 7 in. Brook rifle guns: the extension is on the eastern flank, where it is supposed the enemy will attack. Three gunboats in sight today. They are very quiet and evidently do not know the condition of the batteries or they certainly would attack us. Thirty-six men out of three companies are all we have for duty today. The water is very bad and most of the men are suffering from chills and fever. The battery cannot make much of a fight unless strongly reinforced. Some dissatisfaction exists among the men n account of Maj. Capers refusing to issue the whiskey ration. I am much afraid trouble will arise from it. Very quiet night. Fifteen torpedoes were laid during the night in the channel to the eastward of the battery, making thirty in all. Ironclad floating battery moved up from the obstructions and placed in the channel between this and Battery Gladden.
Sept. 6. Gen. Higgins visited the battery about 4 P.M. During the evening a double turreted monitor came up to within two miles of the battery and fired one shot at our two ironclads near the obstructions. The shot fell a long way short. The long roll was sounded about 10 o’clk, P.M. All the guns were immediately manned and ready for action. Two shots were fired in the direction of the fleet and then all was again quiet. About 2 A.M. firing was again heard and the whole command turned out for action. The moon had gone down and it was quite dark. Nothing could be seen or heard of an enemy and after remaining in battery about one hour the companies were dismissed and the rest of the night was spent quietly. Fifteen torpedoes were laid last night.
A.R. Mumford: On September 15 Lieut .Mumford was so ill that he was sent back to Louisiana Hospital in Mobile. In October he was given a furlough to go home, his first visit since January, 1863. Upon his return to duty, early in December, he was assigned to Battery Gladden.
December 25. Commenced raining early in the morning and continued nearly all day. Five officers allowed to visit town. Capt. Agar, Lieuts. Kennedy, Purdy, Ryan, Farrar and myself the only officers present at mess. No egg-nog and no whiskey.
Dec. 30. Gen. Maury and Capt. R. Semmes of the Alabama visited the battery. Several shots were fired from the guns. Appointed president of a Garrison Court Martial. Assigned to the command of Co. C, 2nd Ala. Batt. Lt. Atry. Str. Waverly went down to the fleet, loaded with cotton for the benefit of Confederate prisoners north.
(Page 13)
Dec. 31. Spent a dull day, no unusual movement in the enemy’s fleet. At 8 o’clk, P.M. the officers of the battery met at Capt. Richard Bond’s quarters and drank the old year out. It was a merry crowd before morning. The prospects of the Confederacy look gloomy. Hood is retreating from Tennessee and Sherman has reached the Atlantic coast. Our armies are steadily diminishing. Where can we recruit?
1865
Jan. 1, 1865. A fine dinner was given to the officers and men of the garrison by private Stanard, Co. E, 2nd Ala. Batt. Arty., and several citizens of Mobile. Turkeys, mutton, etc., were in profusion; the day passed off very pleasantly. Col Quartlebaum and Staff and Judge Burthe were among the invited guests.
Jan. 21. Gen. G. T. Beauregard, Gen. D.H. Maury, and many staff officers visited the battery. On account of the fog none of the guns were fired. By invitation Capts. R.C. Bond and R. Agar and myself went with the party on the steamer Rose Maury to Battery McIntosh.
Jan. 28. Visited the city with Capt. Agar and spent a very pleasant day. Remained in town all night and put up at the Battle House. Great excitement in town all day in consequence of the news of Peace Commissioners going to Washington.
Jan. 30. Clear and very pleasant. Heavy firing in the enemy fleet this morning, supposed to be target practice. The richochet firing was beautiful. Some of the shells would explode after the third ricochet.
Feb. 1. Capt. R.C. Bond, Lieuts. B.C. Kennedy, J.C. Purdy and myself attended a party at Mrs. R. Semmes’. Danced until 2 o’clk, A.M. Spent a very pleasant time.
Feb. 15. Spent the day in town—had three teeth filled by Dr. Chapin. Charge, $20 in gold.
March 10. All quiet in the Yankee fleet immediately in our front. All work suspended today as the day was set apart by the President for fasting, humiliation, and prayers. Gen. Maury visited the battery.
March 11. Quite an increase in the Yankee fleet during the morning—transports and gunboats numbering nineteen. Tested the 11 in. Brooke gun this morning with solid shot and shell. The shots were beautiful. Two monitors opened fire at 3.30 P.M. on one of our light batteries near the mouth of Dog River. They fired about thirty shots and then retired. Two monitors steamed up the eastern shore during the evening, fired a few shots and then returned to the fleet. At dark all of the fleet were anchored off Hollywood. All the engineers’ negroes at work on the platform for the 11 in. gun, the work to continue all night.
March 27. Fighting commenced early this morning on the “Eastern Shore” in the vicinity of Spanish Fort. The cannonading was quite heavy and continued all day. On account of the hazy atmosphere nothing could be seen from this battery. The gunboats Nashville, Morgan, and Tuscaloosa were sent to the Eastern Shore early this morning. (Page 14) The Huntsville could not stem the current in Mobile River and will be towed over tonight. Gen. Maury and Staff returned from Spanish Fort about 9 P.M. on the Str. Heroine. When near the Iron Square Battery she ran on the obstructions. The Gen. and Staff came in the small boats to this battery and were sent to town in the battery launches, first telegraphing to the city for a boat to come to the assistance of the Heroine. There was not a general engagement today, only heavy skirmishing. Our loss about forty killed and wounded. Str. Heroine brought over about thirty wounded. The Yankee fleet did not participate in the engagement.
April 3. Occasional firing during the day along the lines. About sundown a terrific cannonading commenced along the entire extent of the lines on the “Eastern Shore” and continued for about three hours. It was decidedly the heaviest firing since the siege began. One ammunition chest was blown up at Battery McDermott. Several monitors participated in the engagement. Gen. Dick Taylor visited the Easter Shore during the night.
April 9. Spanish Fort was evacuated last night about midnight. Nearly all the garrison were saved. All the guns, munitions, commissary and quartermaster’s stores were lost. The enemy turned out lines on the extreme left, by coming through a swamp said to be impassable. They were in our trenches before they were discovered. The fighting was hard for a few minutes but they overpowered us by superior numbers. Our loss was about three hundred prisoners. Our men crossed the river from Spanish Fort and marched up on the march to Battery Huger. Strs. Red Gauntlet, Heroine, and Gunnison passed the battery this morning crowded with troops returning to the city. Spanish Fort opened fire on Battery Huger about 9 P.M. and continued at long intervals during the day. One monitor came up to late in the evening and fired at Battery Huger at long range. At 6 P.M. the enemy advanced on our lines in two strong columns and carried the entire works. Thomas’ and Cockerill’s brigades were broken at the same time. Our entire forces were captured with the exception of a few who swam to Batteries Huger and Tracy. Our lines were very weak, the men being about two yards apart. Batteries Huger and Tracy are the only barriers left to prevent the enemy from reaching the city. They may last a few days longer but must eventually fall. Fifty-nine vessels of all classes in sight at sundown.
April 10. Preparations being made to evacuate the city. All the boats at the landing loading with stores, etc. Some of the troops left today. This garrison is to be left behind as a rear guard. Fired a few shots at 11.30 A.M. at a Federal gunboat, all falling short. All the command preparing five days’ rations. Amidst all the reverses the men seem to be in good spirits. Great excitement in the city. All the guns manned tonight and ready for instant attack. Should the enemy effect a landing tonight on the Western Shore, we will be entirely cut off and a certain capture will be the result. The Federal Comr. has displayed a great want of knowledge by not landing on this side of the bay some time since. The entrance to the city has always been open. Received intelligence of the evacuation of Richmond, no particulars given. All quiet during the night.
(Page 15)
April 11. Officer of the Day for the last time at Battery Gladden. Received orders to be ready to evacuate the battery at 7 P.M. Heavy firing all day from Battery McDermott, Spanish Fort, and one monitor at Batteries Huger and Tracy. Rolled all the shot and shell into the bay, destroyed all the powder by emptying all the cartridge bags in the bay. All of the implements were broken up. None of the guns were spiked; the truck wheels and elevating screws were thrown overboard. Battery McIntosh was dismantled in the same way. On account of the nearness of the enemy, the evacuation had to be conducted as quietly as possible. None of the batteries were blown up. The Str. Mary was to take the McIntosh garrison and the Heroine the garrison from Gladden, but on account of the engineers deserting the Mary, she was unable to leave the city and the Heroine had to remove both garrisons which caused a great delay. We left Battery Gladden at midnight and on arrival at the city, Go. G, 1st La. Arty., with the McIntosh garrison were to be transferred to the Sumpter. When we came alongside the Str. Sumpter, nothing was in readiness for her leaving. The Capt., engineer, and pilot had deserted her, and there was not one stick of wood aboard. The troops were made to wood up, and engineers were supplied from the command. The McIntosh garrison was transferred to the Sumpter and we, in company with the Heroine, left Mobile at 4 A.M. Wednesday morning. Boats were sent to remove the garrisons from Batteries Huger and Tracy, but up to the time of our leaving, neither of the boats had arrived at the city. One was aground at Conway’s Creek. The evacuation was badly conducted. Many more valuable stores could have been saved with proper management. One cotton press in the lower part of the city was burned. None of the cotton (amounting to nearly thirty thousand bales) was burned. No movement was made in the fleet. Battery McDermott shelled Battery Huger at long intervals all night. Mobile was left with great reluctance by both officers and men. The men, though low-spirited, behaved well. Not one has been reported as a deserter.
April 12. On the Str. Sumpter, going up the Tombigby River. Demopolis is supposed to be our destination. Having no reliefs for the engineers or pilots, we stopped about dark at a small place called Jackson and remained there all night. Str. Heroine anchored in the stream just alongside.
April 14 (Good Friday) Arrived in Demopolis at 12.30 A.M. and after a few hours delay, marched to a camping ground about two miles from the landing. Col. Chas. A. Fuller, 1st La. Arty., in command of all the troops, about sixteen hundred all told. A most miserable camping ground, very low and swampy. No rations issued yet, the command greatly in need of something to eat. Great confusion, no one seems to know his business. The garrisons of McIntosh and Gladden are greatly in want of equipments, etc., for service in the field. What will be our next move, puzzles all.
April 18. Left McDowell’s Landing at 6.30 A.M. on the train for Meridian. Arrived safely at Meridian at 2 P.M. Drew rations at the depot and marched out two miles from town to camp. All kinds of rumors in circulation about the capture of Lee’s army and the death of President Lincoln and Mr. Seward. About sixty men of the regiment sent to the hospital in the last two days. A few men desert every (Page 16) night. Full rations issued to the troops now and a small ration of coffee and sugar. God sold today at one hundred for one, and greenbacks at seventy-five for one.
April 19. Still in camp near Meridian. Transferred today to Gibson’s La. Brigade.
April 22. Left Meridian at 7 o’clk, A.M., Gibson’s Brigade taking the lead of Maury’s Division. Marched out about six miles on the road to Cuba Station and camped for the night. Roads quite heavy, men stood the march remarkably well. Transportation for baggage very limited, field officers allowed one hundred pounds; captains thirty pounds; and lieutenants, fifteen pounds.
April 24. Left camp at 8 A.M., Gibson’s Brigade taking the center of the division. Roads very bad, swamps nearly all the way. Camped about one mile from Cuba Station on the railroad from Meridian to Demopolis—wood plenty, water scarce and not very good. The march today was short; the men kept up very well. Fifteen men of the 1st La. Arty. deserted last night. Many are deserting from all the regiments.
April 26. Had dress parade and regimental inspection this morning. Co. G, 1st La. Arty. left Battery Gladden with seventy men for duty, and turned out this morning only eleven muskets, all of the dismounted cavalry having deserted.
April 28. Still in camp near Cuba Station. Health of the command good. Orders issued for battalion and skirmish drills daily.
May 2. Lieut. Morse and myself left camp at 8 A.M. on a foraging expedition. Remained out until 10, P.M. Spent a very pleasant day riding about the country—bought chickens, eggs, butter, and potatoes. Our fate is at last decided. The terms of agreement between Gens. Canby and Taylor in regard to this little army were announced to the troops this evening. Humiliating as it is, it is much better than we could expect from our vindictive foe. Gen. Canby allowed Gen. Taylor to make his own terms. Officers and men to be paroled, officers to retain side arms, all private property to be respected and transportation furnished all soldiers to their homes.
May 3. Still in camp. All duties performed as before—drills regularly twice a day. The men remain quiet and are as cheerful as possible under the circumstances.
May 4. The terms of agreement between Gens. Canby and Taylor were read to the troops at dress parade this evening. All the cartridges except two rounds to each man were turned in to the Ordnance Officer. Nothing could be bought today with Confederate money; all the farmers in the neighborhood refused to take it. Two months’ pay in Confederate money ordered to be paid to such troops as would accept it. Holtzdam’s Brigade sent to Demopolis to guard public stores. Two regiments of Gibson’s Brigade ordered to Meridian to guard public stores.
(Page 17)
Meridian, May 8. All the troops of this department who have been in camp at Cuba Station have been have been ordered to this point. All company commanders ordered to prepare rolls of their companies for the paroling officer. Several Federal officers and about one hundred men arrived on the train this evening from Mobile. Gibson’s Brigade arrived at 11 A.M. from Cuba Station and camped at the old camping ground about one mile from Meridian.
May 9. On this day, four years ago, I was mustered into service as a private in the Army of the State of La. at Camp Turnbull, Parish of West Feliciana, by H.W. Allen, now Gov. of La. The troops at this point are being paroled today. Col. W.R. Miles, C.S. arm, paroles all unattached officers and men. Brig. Gen. Gibson, the division of Gen. Maury.
May 10. None of the 1st La. Arty, paroled yet. Deserters are coming in by thousands to be paroled. The trains left this evening crowded with troops going home.
May 15. Arrived in Mobile at 8.30 A.M., very hungry, tired, and dirty. Put up at the Battle House. Great crowds of Confederate officers and soldiers in the city awaiting transportation to their homes. So far the Federals are treating us remarkably well. Several officers of the 1st La. Arty. left at 10 A.M. on the Str. Gen. Banks for New Orleans. Spent the day very pleasantly, visited all of my old friends.
May 17. Got transportation from Capt. Ronelle, U.S.A., to leave for New Orleans at 12 M. on Str. Nashua. Left Mobile at 12.30 P.M., on Str. Nashua. When about eight miles from the city, the engine broke, which caused our delay several hours. Saw several sunken boats in Mobile Bay, all done by torpedoes. Landed at Fort Gaines a little after dark, took the route outside of Dauphin Island. A very mean boat, very slow and quite uncomfortable. Not a great many passengers aboard. Slept on my blankets on the after guards.
New Orleans, May 18. Reached the end of the shell road at the Lake at 2 P.M. and took the cars at 3 P.M. for the city. Went with Capt. R. Agar to the residence of Wm. Agar, Esq., Cor. of Clio and Prytania Strs. Had we been conquerors instead of the conquered, we could not have received a warmer reception. Spent the evening very pleasantly. The New Orleans ladies shall long be remembered for the devoted patriotism.