{p.1}

CHAPTER XVII.
OPERATIONS IN KENTUCKY, TENNESSEE, NORTH ALABAMA, AND SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA.
November 19, 1861-March 4, 1862.
(Mill Springs, Fort Henry, Fort Donelson)
–––
REPORTS, ETC.

SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS.*

Nov.	20, 1861.–	Skirmish at Brownsville, Ky.
	21, 1861.–	Ten thousand volunteers called out in Mississippi for the defense of Columbus, Ky., &c. Brig. Gen. Lloyd Tilghman, C. S. Army, assigned to command of Forts Henry and Donelson, Tenn.
	24-Dec 5, 1861.–	Forrest’s Expedition to Caseyville, Eddyville, &c., Ky.
Dec.	1, 1861.–	Skirmish at Whippoorwill Creek, Ky. Gunboat demonstration on Fort Holt, Ky.
	1-2, 1861.–	Skirmishes near Camp Goggin, Ky.
	1-13, 1861.–	Operations about Mill Springs and Somerset, Ky.
	4-7, 1861.–	Expedition to and destruction of Bacon Creek Bridge, Ky.
	5, 1861.–	Maj. Gen. William J. Hardee, C. S. Army, assumes command of the Central Army of Kentucky.
	5-8, 1861.–	Scout in vicinity of Russellville, Ky.
	8, 1861.–	Skirmish at Fishing Creek, near Somerset, Ky.
	12, 1861.–	Skirmish at Gradyville, Ky.
	17, 1861.–	Action at Rowlett’s Station (Woodsonville), Green River, Ky.
	18, 1861.–	Reconnaissance from Somerset to Mill Springs, Ky.
	23-Jan 30, 1862.–	Garfield’s and Marshall’s operations in Eastern Kentucky.
	25, 1861.–	Skirmish at Grider’s Ferry, Cumberland River, Ky.
	28, 1861.–	Action at Sacramento, Ky.
	28-31, 1861.–	Expedition to Camp Beauregard and Viola, Ky.
Jan.	7, 1862.–	Skirmish at Jennie’s Creek, Ky.
	8, 1862.–	Skirmish at Fishing Creek, Ky.
	10, 1862.–	Engagement at Middle Creek, near Prestonburg, Ky.
	10-21, 1862.–	Expedition into Kentucky from Cairo, III.
	14, 1862.–	Gunboat reconnaissance to Columbus, Ky.
	15-25, 1862.–	Reconnaissance from Paducah, Ky., to Fort Henry, Tenn.
	19, 1862.–	Engagement at Logan’s Cross-Roads, on Fishing Creek, near Mill Springs, Ky.
	17-22, 1862.–	Gunboat demonstrations on Fort Henry, Tenn.
	24-30, 1862.–	Expedition to the Little Sandy and Piketon, Ky. {p.2}
	28-Feb 2, 1862.–	Operations near Greensburg and Lebanon, Ky.
Feb.	2, 1862.–	Skirmish in Morgan County, Tenn.
	4, 1862.–	Gunboat reconnaissance to Fort Henry, Tenn.
	6, 1862.–	Capture of Fort Henry, Tenn.
	6-10, 1862.–	Expedition to Florence, Ala.
	7, 1862.–	Brig. Gen. Bushrod R. Johnson, C. S. Army, assumes command at Fort Donelson, Tenn.
	9, 1862.–	Brig. Gen. Gideon J. Pillow, C. S. Army, assumes command at Fort Donelson, Tenn.
	12-16, 1862.–	Siege of Fort Donelson, Tenn.
	13, 1862.–	Brig. Gen. John B. Floyd, C. S. Army, assumes command at Fort Donelson, Tenn. Skirmish near Fort Heiman, Ky.
	14, 1862.–	Brig. Gen. U. S. Grant, U. S. Army, assigned to command of the District of West Tennessee. Brig. Gen. William T. Sherman, U. S. Army, assigned to command of the District of Cairo. Skirmish near Cumberland Gap, Tenn.
	14-15, 1862.–	Bowling Green, Ky., evacuated by the Confederates and occupied by the Union forces.
	15-22, 1862.–	Expedition from Cairo, Ill., to Eastport, Miss.
	19, 1862.–	Clarksville, Tenn., occupied by Union forces.
	23, 1862.–	General A. Sidney Johnston, C. S. Army, assumes immediate command of the Central Army.
	23-25, 1862.–	Nashville, Tenn., evacuated by the Confederates and occupied by the Union forces.
	25, 1862.–	Maj. Gen. E. Kirby Smith, C. S. Army, assigned to command in East Tennessee.
	26, 1862.–	Scout to Nashville, Tenn.
March	1, 1862.–	Engagement at Pittsburg, Tenn.
	2-3, 1862.–	Columbus, Ky., evacuated by the Confederates and occupied by the Union forces.
	4, 1862.–	Maj. Gen. Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army, announces his resumption of the command of Department of Alabama and West Florida.**

* Of some of the minor conflicts noted in this “Summary” no circumstantial reports are on file, the only record of such events being references to them on muster rolls and returns.

** It does not appear, however, that effect was ever given to his order resuming command.

NOVEMBER 20, 1861.– Skirmish at Brownsville, Ky.

Report of Brig. Gen. T. C. Hindman, U. S. Army.

HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 1ST Div., CENTRAL ARMY KENTUCKY, Oakland, Ky., November 21, 1861.

SIR: As required by dispatch of last night from division headquarters, I submit a detailed report of my expedition to Brownsville on yesterday:

In a dispatch of recent date I informed you of the skirmish between a detachment of Major Phifer’s cavalry battalion, under Captain Chrisman, and a party of Yankees, at Brownsville, and stated my wish to conduct an expedition in that direction. No official response reached me on the subject, and the intention was consequently abandoned. But on yesterday morning Lieutenant Colonel Marmaduke, First Arkansas Battalion reported that Lieutenant Murphy, of his command, with six men of Major Phifer’s battalion, who had been sent out two days previously by my order to procure spirits for hospital use, had not {p.3} returned and had probably been cut off by the enemy. Upon this information I determined to proceed at once to Brownsville, and break up the Yankee camp on the river bank opposite that place. Accordingly I left this post at 8 a.m. yesterday, taking with me Captains Chrisman and McNeill and 50 men of Phifer’s battalion, and First Lieutenant Grim, with one gun of Swett’s battery. The pickets upon the roads leading towards Brownsville were instructed to detain all citizens passing until the return of the expedition, and the advance guard had orders to arrest all male citizens found on the road or in view of it. These precautions enabled me to get within half a mile of the town unobserved. There Captain McNeill was detached, with 25 men, to proceed to the right around the knob south of and overhanging the place, so as to cut off retreat up the river. With the remainder of the force, after delaying long enough to enable Captain McNeill to get equally near the town, I moved along the direct road, which passes between the knob just referred to and another on its left 300 yards distant. It was impossible to get in rear of this last-named knob so as to cut off retreat down the river without being seen from the town. I ascended the right-hand knob on foot and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General Newton the one on the left to reconnoiter. There was no enemy visible on the Brownsville side of the river, but on the opposite side I perceived a body of cavalry, apparently about 50 strong, formed in a narrow road leading across the range of hills that runs parallel to the stream. One hundred yards farther down, near a small log cabin situated in a field, there was a squad of 14 to 15 men on foot, with horses hitched around. Still farther down on the Litchfield road, partly concealed in the timber, there was a mounted party of about 50. It was evident that they had notice of our approach and intended to dispute the passage of the river.

Lieutenant Newton found the river obstructed from the position he had taken. He ascertained from a woman who was passing that a party of between 15 and 20 had been in Brownsville during the day, but had just recrossed the river. Entering the town with the main body as rapidly as possible, I directed Lieutenant Orlin to open fire upon the enemy from the public square. The first discharge scattered the cavalry in the wood; the next dispersed the squad near the cabin and drove 10 or 15 more out of it; the third and fourth took effect upon the cabin, a spherical case shot exploding within it and a round shot piercing the building. At the first Captain McNeill entered the town, having taken one of their pickets; another was subsequently captured by a man of his detachment.

The piece was then moved around to a position nearer the river and commanding the Litchfield road, and fire was opened on the cavalry posted in that road, which was instantly dispersed. The dismounted men of the enemy now commenced firing from behind logs, trees, fences, &c., situated on the opposite bank, which is much lower than the south bank. Their weapons were Minie muskets and the common hunting rifle. The number of those firing were not less than 50.

My men were ordered to dismount, take position as near the river as practicable behind such cover as might be found, and reply to the fire of the enemy. The firing was thus continued for from ten to fifteen minutes, when that of the enemy ceased, except now and then scattering shots, their men running away singly and in squads of two and three through the corn fields and into the woods, and our men firing at them as long as they were visible. I at one time gave the order to Captain Chrisman to cross the river if practicable, but finding it not fordable, the order was countermanded. When dislodged from their position along {p.4} and under the river bank, the enemy collected in small squads at distances from 400 to 800 yards from the stream, and were again scattered by spherical case shot thrown by the 6-pounder, after which they entirely disappeared.

In addition to the two pickets captured, as before stated, a Federal flag hoisted in the town and the United States mail, found at the post-office, were taken. The pickets are citizens, who were compelled to perform that service. [They] were unarmed and I have released them.

The only casualty on our side was the wounding of Private Dugan, of Captain Chrisman’s company, by a Minie ball fired near the close of the engagement. The wound is severe, but not mortal. Upon the side of the enemy I observed 6 men to fall, who remained in view and were doubtless killed.

The information reached me this morning by a man who left Brownsville at daylight that two Union men from the north side of the river were there last night about 2 o’clock in search of lint and medicines, who stated to him that 7 men were found dead on the field, 1 badly wounded and expected to die during the night, and that 4 wounded men were taken off by the cavalry; also that 5 horses were killed by the spherical case shot that exploded in the cabin; 2 other horses were killed by a similar shot at a different place.

The Federal force we engaged was of Colonel Jackson’s regiment, posted at Litchfield.

The firing by Lieutenant Orlin was admirable, approaching almost to the accuracy of rifle practice.

Both officers and men, without exception, deported themselves well. Carelessness of their own safety, by which Private Dugan received his wound, was the only part of their conduct not to be approved.

I ordered sundry articles belonging to P. H. Solman, merchant, who conducted the Yankees into Brownsville yesterday morning, and is known to be in constant communication with the enemy, to be taken for hospital use. They are turned over to the brigade quartermaster and will be regularly invoiced.

Very respectfully,

T. C. HINDMAN, Brigadier-General.

Lieut. D. G. WHITE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

NOVEMBER 24-DECEMBER 5, 1861.– Forrest’s Expedition to Caseyville, Eddyville, &c., Ky.

REPORTS.

No. 1.–	Col. N. B. Forrest, Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate).
No. 2.–	Lieut. Col. James Peckham, Eighth Missouri Infantry.

No. 1.

Report of Col. N. B. Forrest, Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate).

REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS, Hopkinsville, Ky., December 5, 1861.

Leaving Hopkinsville November 24 with 300 men and their officers, under orders from brigade headquarters, we went to Greenville, where we found some arms and equipments belonging to the enemy, as will {p.5} be seen by a list herewith returned; also a soldier in full uniform, whom we made prisoner and returned to the commander of the post; from thence to Madisonville, where I sent Captain Overton, with 30 men, in the direction of Ashbysburg and Calhoun, who reported that all the troops had left the former place and gone to the latter (Calhoun). I then sent a scout to Henderson, dressed as a citizen, who reported that all the Federal forces had been sent from that town to Calhoun and their sick to Evansville.

I then visited Providence and Claysville and Morganfield, at all of which places the people met us with smiles and cheers, and fed and greeted us kindly.

I then went to Caseyville, on the Ohio River; then up the Tradewater 12 miles, where I crossed and went to Marion, in Crittenden County. When near that place a lady came from her door and begged in the name of her children for help, and representing that her husband (who was a citizen of standing and unconnected with the war) had been captured by Federal soldiers, led on and assisted by citizens of the neighborhood, whose names being given, I deemed it proper to arrest. William Akers was arrested, and when I approached the house of Jonathan Bells he shot the surgeon of my regiment from the door and escaped by a back opening in the house. A noble and brave man, and skillful surgeon, and high-toned gentleman was Dr. Van Wyck, and his loss was deeply felt by the whole regiment. Dispatching the body in care of Major Kelly, with 100 men, to Hopkinsville. I remained in the vicinity of Marion another day, and my scouts arrested one Federal soldier and brought him as prisoner, and killed one Scott, the leader of the band, who had sworn to shoot Southern men from their houses and behind trees, he (Scott) attempting it by wounding three horses with a shot-gun. The scouts found with him three guns and a pistol, which are returned to the Ordnance Department; also two horses of the enemy.

From Marion I went to Dycusburg and Eddyville, where I learned that no boats or soldiers had been on the Cumberland for twelve days at those points. The people at the latter places treated us with the utmost liberality and kindness.

It is believed that the expedition has done great good in giving confidence to the Southern-rights men, destroying the distorted ideas of Union men, who expected every species of abuse at the hands of the Confederate soldiers, many of them expressing their agreeable disappointment and change of views in regard to our army, and not a few assured us that they would no longer use any influence against the cause of the South. Universal kindness was the policy of the officers in command. With me were Captains Overton, May, Fruitt [Trewhitt?], and Hambrick, in command of detachments of their own companies, and Lieutenant Sims, in command of a detachment of Captain Gould’s company, and Lieutenant Gentry, in command of a detachment of Captain Logan’s company, and as guide Lieutenant Wallace, of Captain G. A. Huwald’s company.

A number of hogs and cattle were started from the counties between this and the river and along the river under the auspices of the expedition.

There are no Federal forces remaining on this side the Ohio from the mouth of Green to the mouth of Cumberland, and with the exception of a few scouts none have been there for twelve days.

After I left Madisonville, Jackson’s cavalry visited the place, about 400 in number, but he attempted no pursuit; he might have easily overtaken us. After we were at Caseyville 200 Federal troops came there {p.6} and captured about eighty hogs, became intoxicated on stolen whisky, and left in a row.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

N. B. FORREST, Colonel, Commanding Forrest Regiment Cavalry.

Brig. Gen. CHARLES CLARK, Commanding at Hopkinsville, Ky.

–––

No. 2.

Report of Lieut. Col. James Peckham, Eighth Missouri Infantry.

CAMP GENERAL SMITH, Paducah, Ky., December 2, 1861.

SIR: In compliance with your order of the 30th ultimo, I proceeded, on board the transports Golden State and Lake Erie No. 3, with three companies of the Eighth Missouri Volunteers and one piece of artillery, commanded by Lieutenant Tobey, of the Chicago Light Artillery, to Cave in Rock, where I awaited the arrival of the gunboat Conestoga. In company with the latter I reached Caseyville, Ky., at daylight on the morning of the 1st instant. The enemy had left Caseyville-the day before my arrival there, and from many reports was at least 20 miles distant and pushing southwards. From all I could learn I submit the following:

It was apparently with no intention of blockading the Ohio that the enemy ventured upon its banks. A very large crop of hogs is now ready for the market, and it is to secure this crop that they are found in the region of the Ohio. They have driven off many already, but a large number still remain. They had in an inclosure, some 3 miles from Caseyville, a lot of 60, which I secured, and turned over to Colonel Cavanaugh, of the Sixth Illinois Cavalry, now stationed at Shawneetown. I am led to believe that a large business in salt is being done by the rebels via Caseyville and Cave in Rock. It is known that vast quantities of goods find their way to Nashville through that section of country, of which Caseyville is the leading point. Upon my arrival at the latter place I consulted with Captain Phelps, of the Conestoga, and Colonel Williams, of this place, and concluded to send to Shawneetown for re-enforcements. They arrived, but too late to do any good. I returned here this morning at 5 o’clock, under the conviction that my longer stay at Caseyville could be productive of no good.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

Your obedient servant,

JAMES PECKHAM, Lieutenant Colonel Eighth Mo. Vols., Comdg. Detachment.

General C. F. SMITH, Commanding U. S. Forces, Paducah, Ky.

–––

DECEMBER 1. 1861.– Gunboat demonstration on Fort Holt, Ky.

Report of Col. John Cook, Seventh Illinois Infantry.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, Fort Holt, Ky., Sunday, December 1, 1861.

At 3.15. p.m. Lieutenant Mathie, commanding Company F, Seventh Illinois, officer of the day, reported to these headquarters the approach {p.7} of three rebel gunboats (names unknown), which were allowed to reach a distance of 44 miles from Fort Holt, when, deeming it imprudent to allow them to progress farther, the batteries were ordered to open upon them, the first shot being fired from Fort Holt, on the extreme right of the fortifications, for the purpose of drawing a fire from the enemy, in order to test the power of his artillery, which having been done, the 64-pounder, “Lady Grant,” in battery on the extreme left, returned his fire, dropping the first shot within 200 yards in advance of the boat. The second boat returning our fire plainly showed the inadequacy of both guns and artillerists to cope with us at any shorter distance. The 64-pounders, commanded by Lieutenant Wood (McAllister’s artillery), was managed with marked ability, although laboring under great disadvantages, the piece being only provided with ammunition for 32-pounders.

I am confident that had we been supplied with the ammunition adapted to the caliber of the gun we could have done much damage to the enemy before he could have retreated. To elevate to such an extent as would enable us to reach him with a shot (there being no known rule to establish the angle), caused us in two instances to overshoot him, the shot from the gunboats always falling greatly short of us.

On the approach of these rebel craft a detachment from Captain Delano’s cavalry, together with one company from the Twenty-eighth Illinois, were ordered to proceed, the former as far as Fort Jefferson, as a reconnoitering party, with instructions to report by messenger anything that would reveal the intentions of the enemy, and the latter beyond the picket line, deployed as skirmishers, to guard against an unexpected attack in the rear of the fort, both of which have returned, assuring me of the entire absence of any armed force about or around the camp.

All of which is most respectfully submitted.

JOHN COOK, Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade.

Brig. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding District Southeast Missouri, Cairo, Ill.

–––

DECEMBER 1-13, 1861.– Operations about Mill Springs and Somerset, Ky.

REPORTS.

No. 1.–	Brig. Gen. Albin Schoepf, U. S. Army.
No. 2.–	Col. Ferdinand Van Derveer, Thirty-fifth Ohio Infantry.
No. 3.–	Brig. Gen. F. K. Zollicoffer, C. S. Army.

No. 1.

Reports of Brig. Gen. Albin Schoepf, U. S. Army.

CAMP GOGGIN, December 2, 1861.

GENERAL: I arrived here yesterday, reconnoitered same day and today. This morning the enemy opened fire from three pieces, one rifled, and infantry on Colonel Hoskins’ camp subsequent to my order for the removal of the camp some distance back.

The strength of the enemy is estimated, by the best accounts we can get, of the following numbers: At Mill Springs, 2,000 infantry and 1,000 {p.8} cavalry at Captain West’s farm, distant from Mill Springs 2 miles, 1,000 infantry; at Steubenville, 2 miles distant from West’s, 2,000 infantry; and at Monticello, 5 miles from Steubenville, 3,000 infantry. Mill Springs is distant from this point 12 miles, at which place they can cross the Cumberland with facility, and 2 miles below that point they can also cross.

Apprehending the probability of their crossing at Mill Springs, I detailed two companies of cavalry to that place. I deem the position east of me safe, but west of me they may cross.

The river is high and not fordable, but by means of flats they can cross anywhere; the troops under my command are not sufficient to keep the river guarded as far as Mill Springs. Should they cross in the vicinity of my camp I can defend my position. The Thirty-eighth Ohio will be with me to day. The Seventeenth will occupy a position on Fishing Creek, to defend against a flank movement should the enemy cross.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. SCHOEPF, Brigadier-General.

General GEORGE H. THOMAS, Commanding Eastern Division.

P. S.-The enemy have moved their artillery and opened fire again. I have hardly time to write.

–––

CAMP GOGGIN, December 3, 1861.

GENERAL: The enemy, after keeping up a brisk fire until 1 p.m., retired and took up march towards Mill Springs. I ordered Colonel Connell’s Seventeenth Ohio Regiment from Somerset to that point; also three pieces of artillery and one company of cavalry. Should the enemy make an attempt to cross, we could be able to keep them in check.

Twenty reliable Union men crossed the river yesterday evening, and gave me information that Zollicoffer commands in person, and is at Mill Springs, with eight regiments of infantry, three of cavalry, and eight pieces of artillery.

My troops can be provided with beef and fresh pork; therefore I would suggest that only small stores and bread should be sent.

Captain Prime arrived here to-day. We will go to work as soon se the tools arrive.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. SCHOEPF, Brigadier-General.

General GEORGE H. THOMAS, Commanding Eastern Division.

–––

HEADQUARTERS FIRST KENTUCKY BRIGADE, Somerset, December 8, 1861.

GENERAL: We met the enemy’s scouts this evening about 3 miles to the west of the village; the collision took place between the Thirty-fifth Ohio and the enemy’s cavalry. Our loss was 1 killed and 1 wounded; the enemy’s, 1 officer killed and 3 men wounded. We captured 1 horse and killed 5. The cavalry under my command, as usual, behaved badly. They are a nuisance, and the sooner they are disbanded the better. They are scouring the country on their own account, lounging about {p.9} the villages and drinking establishments, a nuisance and disturbance to the quiet citizens of the country. Captain Everett has just joined me, and reports a series of irregularities by stragglers of this regiment as having passed under his notice in the several villages through which he passed.

Is there no such thing as obtaining a regiment of reliable cavalry? Such a regiment is indispensable with this brigade at this time. The absence of such troops has kept me in the saddle until I am nearly worn down with fatigue.

I very much need a brigade commissary of subsistence, who could have the means to purchase such articles as it may become necessary to purchase. The system of making purchases by regimental commissaries and giving promise to pay is open to abuse, and has become a great annoyance.

The two Tennessee regiments will be here to-morrow. I shall, no doubt, need them by the time they arrive.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. SCHOEPF, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Brig. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS.

P. S.-I regret to add that Major Helveti, of the Kentucky Cavalry, and Captain Prime, Engineers, are both missing, and have been, I now learn, captured by the enemy. These officers left camp with me on Wednesday on a reconnaissance, but, taking a different road, fell into the hands of the enemy. An earlier report would have been made of this, but I had looked for their return until after the departure of the Saturday’s mail, my last reliable means of communicating with you. I deem it useless now to send a dispatch by a cavalry express.

–––

No. 2.

Report of Col. Ferdinand Van Derveer, Thirty-fifth Ohio Infantry.

CAMP NEAR SOMERSET, KY., December 8, 1861.

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that at 2 o’clock this afternoon rapid firing was heard from our advance picket, 30 strong, stationed on the Fishing Creek road, about 2 miles from our camp.

The battalion was immediately formed, and two companies went quickly to the relief of the picket. The enemy had been checked and were scattered through the woods.

The picket was first alarmed by several of Captain Dillon’s cavalry, who had been posted a few miles in advance, rushing past. They could not be stopped, and in a few moments the whole company came rushing along, refusing to halt to assist our men, and so ran on to camp. Had they rendered any assistance the enemy would have been routed with considerable loss.

Our picket, under the direction of Lieut. W. C. Dine, of Company D, being in an open field, formed and delivered three volleys, retreating while loading to the woods, which they reached, and then came on to camp in small parties.

We killed 1 of their officers in command of the advance, 1 of their horses, and captured 1 horse. Our own loss was 1 killed, 1 wounded, and 15 missing.

{p.10}

The force of the enemy appears to have been 150 cavalry, chiefly armed with sabers and pistols.

All of which is respectfully submitted.

FERDINAND VAN DERVEER, Colonel Commanding Thirty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteers.

Brig. Gen. ALBIN SCHOEPF, Commanding First Brigade Kentucky Volunteers.

–––

No. 3.

Reports of Brig. Gen. F. K. Zollicoffer, C. S. Army.

BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS, Mill Springs, Ky., December 2, 1861.

SIR: Yesterday, with a small detachment of infantry and cavalry, I proceeded to reconnoiter from the left bank a camp of the enemy, 9 miles above, on the right bank of the river. Many of their tents were in full view, and they came out and fired on us with small-arms and one 12-pounder howitzer. We returned the fire, but the distance was too great for our guns to be of material service. To-day I took up four pieces of artillery and soon shelled them out of their encampment, causing them to strike tents precipitately and retire out of sight. I doubt whether they have more than one regiment there.

Captain Sheliha, with a scouting party, has examined Creelsborough and Burkesville, lower down the river, and reports three regiments of the enemy at the former and a small force at the latter, both on the right bank.

One of our picket parties reports a small force also at Rowena, on the same side of the river.

The river is now very high. I am now building transports to enable me to cross, but I fear there will be several days’ delay.

Very respectfully,

F. K. ZOLLICOFFER, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Lieutenant-Colonel MACKALL, Assistant Adjutant-General, Bowling Green, Ky.

–––

BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS, Mill Springs, Ky., December 9, 1861.

SIR: Having been disappointed in having ferry-boats captured by the force sent on in advance with that object, I have had to have boats built, and have been much delayed in crossing the Cumberland River. Five regiments, seven cavalry companies, and four pieces of artillery are now across. The position on both sides of the ferry is naturally strong, and I am rapidly strengthening the defenses on the right bank. The whole force with me is seven and one-half regiments, eighteen cavalry companies, and one 6-pounder battery of eight guns.

There is a force of the enemy at Columbia, the strength of which I am not able to ascertain. Three regiments of it were at Creelsborough, 18 miles above Burkesville, ten days ago. It is certain that there are now not less than five regiments at Somerset, possibly more.

On the 1st I reconnoitered from the left bank a camp of the enemy, a {p.11} part of which was in view on the right bank of the river at Waitsborough. On the 2d I took up four pieces of artillery and shelled them out, compelling them to move their encampment hurriedly. They had but two pieces of artillery. On the 4th I threw over the first small cavalry picket at this place. They met a cavalry picket of the enemy a mile from the ferry and drove them back, capturing some trifling equipments. The Seventeenth Ohio Regiment, with orders to prevent our crossing, had advanced to within 24 miles of the ferry. It fled precipitately to the neighborhood of Somerset.

On the 5th our cavalry pickets captured Major Helveti (supposed to be of General Buell’s staff). Captain Prime, engineer officer, under orders from General Buell, and a corporal of Colonel Hoskins’ regiment, after a chase of several miles, severely wounding the 2 officers.

Fishing Creek runs south into the Cumberland, 5 miles above here, and lies between our position and Somerset. It is more than 30 miles long, runs in a deep ravine 200 to 300 feet deep, and its summit-level on the east ranges from a half mile to one and a half miles distant from that on the west. There are two crossings from here to Somerset, 7 and 11 miles from here. The more distant, the enemy fortified on the eastern bank, and they had a force near the latter crossing. On the 7th our cavalry detachments crossed at both places, and found the enemy had fallen back to a camp 3 miles north of Somerset. They rode through their fortifications and returned. Yesterday our cavalry crossed at the upper ford and reconnoitered the enemy’s camp and the town of Somerset. In the fortifications at the creek they found an infantry picket and a cavalry picket in advance. They were also fired on from the bushes this side of the creek. They charged upon all they met, pursued the enemy 5 or 6 miles, killed 10, and captured 16, one of whom is badly wounded. All are of the Thirty-fifth Ohio Regiment, except one of Wolford’s regiment. There were 2 of our horses killed and 1 more wounded. The prisoners say their regiment reached Somerset only the evening before, and they know but little of what regiments are there, except that four of them are from Ohio, the Thirty-fifth, Thirty-eighth, Seventeenth, and Thirty-first. Hoskins’ Kentucky regiment is certainly there, perhaps others. Our cavalry are to-day picketing both towards Harrison and Somerset.

Very respectfully,

F. K. ZOLLICOFFER, Brigadier-General.

Lieutenant-Colonel MACKALL, Bowling Green, Ky.

–––

BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS, BEECH GROVE, Ky., North of the River opposite Mill Springs, December 14, 1861.

SIR: On the 2d instant I informed you that I had, from the south bank of the river, shelled the enemy out of their camp on the north bank, and was rapidly constructing boats at Mill Springs with which to cross the river. On the 3d I threw over a few cavalry pickets, who drove back the enemy’s pickets, found a mile from the ferry, capturing a pistol, a saddle, and some other trappings. The Seventeenth Ohio Regiment, 24 miles distant, fled 12 miles. On the 4th, our cavalry pickets captured. 6 miles north of the river, after a chase of more than a mile, Major Helveti, of the First Kentucky Cavalry, Captain Prime, of New York, engineer officer, of General Buell’s staff; and a corporal of Colonel Hoskins’ Kentucky regiment. The major and captain were {p.12} both severely wounded. On the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th we were employed crossing, by aid of a few boats we had constructed (finding a strong position in the bend of the river on the north side), leaving two regiments, some cavalry, and two pieces of artillery on the south bank. On the 5th we found that the enemy were intrenching a strong position on the east bank of Fishing Creek, 11 miles north of us. The bed of the creek is a deep ravine, 200 to 300 feet deep, the summit-level on one side being distant from that on the other side from three-quarters of a mile to one and a half miles. They also had a force at a lower crossing, 7 miles from us. Both crossings were on roads leading to Somerset. On the 7th we found that they had fallen back from both positions, and learned that they were intrenching 2 miles beyond Somerset. On the 8th our cavalry pushed across the creek at the upper crossing, met a cavalry and infantry picket at the fortifications, drove them to the enemy’s camp near Somerset, killing 10 or 12 and capturing 17 prisoners, all of the Thirty-fifth Ohio Regiment, except 1 of the First Kentucky Cavalry. Our loss, 1 man wounded and 2 horses killed. Our party captured a number of muskets, pistols, accouterments, articles of wearing apparel, &c.

On the south side of the river I have had the ferries patrolled with cavalry from the forks of the Cumberland down to Burkesville. On the - our picket at Creelsborough was fired at across the river and by some men in a boat. They killed 2 in the boat, and lost a horse. On the 9th and 10th the enemy on the north bank fired across the river at our cavalry patrolling Rowena, 30 miles below here. I determined to punish them, and sent down an expedition on the north bank on the 11th, which dispersed the enemy, killing 3 and capturing 11. Our only loss was man drowned in attempting to cross the river. Last night a party of our cavalry, who had crossed the South Fork of the Cumberland, were fired on, losing 1 man killed and 1 wounded. It being difficult to keep them here safely, I to-day sent 33 prisoners of war to Nashville, retaining 1 too badly wounded to move at present. General Johnston has ordered a steamboat to Gainesborough on the 18th, loaded with supplies for this brigade, on which the prisoners will take passage. This country is abundant in flour, pork, beef, and many other supplies. There are from eight to ten regiments of the enemy at Somerset, five at Columbia. I have four and a half regiments on this side intrenched-flanks and rear protected by the river-and two regiments on the south bank. Major-General Crittenden has assumed command of this district, and is at Knoxville.

Very respectfully,

F. K. ZOLLICOFFER, Brigadier-General.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va.

–––

DECEMBER 4-7, 1861.– Expedition to and destruction of Bacon Creek Bridge, Ky.

Report of Capt. John H. Morgan, Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate).

CAMP BURNAM, December 7, 1861.

SIR: I have the honor to report that, in pursuance of orders, I left camp on Wednesday last, at 4 p.m. with 105 men, and reached Green {p.13} River at 6 o’clock Thursday night, December 5. Crossed 6 men, 4 of whom were to dash through Munfordville and take a position upon the turnpike leading to Bacon Creek, 4 miles from town, to prevent any information being carried to the enemy’s pickets, the other 2 to take position in the town and remain until the command had crossed the river. When they got into the town saw several men armed, 2 whose names were Berry Eaton and Luther Shackleford, who it seems had just returned from [the] Federal camp, where they had been to take a Southern-rights man, whom they had captured. My advance guard discovered them and ordered them to give up their guns. They dismounted, one immediately firing both barrels of his gun at my men, who returned the fire without doing any execution. The 2 men who were left in town caught one of the horses, which is now in my camp.

Reached Bacon Creek bridge at 9 o’clock. Found it in perfect order, with the exception of one rail, which was lying ready to be laid. There were five columns of uprights. All were completely burned, with the exception of the one which was in the creek. The bridge is a complete ruin.

The command left Bacon Creek at 1.05 o’clock. The rear guard of 4 men remained until within a few minutes of 3 o’clock.

General McCook’s advance is at Upton’s, his main body a short distance this side of Nolin. Was informed by Union men that the bridge on Rolling Fork has been washed away, entirely interrupting rail communication with Louisville.

On my way to Green River met a wagon loaded with goods purchased in Louisville. Had it guarded until my return. The wagon was claimed by Mrs. Ritter who had purchased the goods with which it was loaded. Mrs. Ritter is believed by the people of that neighborhood to be an employé of the enemy. Upon my return, finding that a portion of the goods were to be delivered in Bowling Green, I released the wagon. One of my horses becoming exhausted, left it at Ritter’s, and mounted the man upon one of his.

Upon the morning of the 7th one of my men was disabled from the accidental discharge of his gun. Reached camp at 11 a.m. December 7.

Respectfully, &c.,

JOHN H. MORGAN, Commanding Squadron.

General S. B. BUCKNER Commanding Division.

DECEMBER 5-8, 1861.– Scout in vicinity of Russellville, Ky.

Report of Capt. I. F. Harrison, Mississippi Cavalry.

WIRT ADAMS’ CAVALRY, Camp Hardee, December 8, 1861.

SIR: I have the honor herewith to report to Major-General Hardee, commanding, the result of my scout in the vicinity of Russellville:

Pursuant to instructions I left Bowling Green at midnight on the 5th instant, with a command of 45 men of this regiment, and reached Russellville at 2.30 a.m. on the 6th. Here I was detained three hours, procuring horses for my men. Upon procuring a mount I started to join Captain Pope, who had engaged the enemy the day before. I came {p.14} up with him about 16 miles from Russellville, assumed command, and started in pursuit of the enemy. I found his trail, and learned he was two hours ahead of me. A short distance from here, the advance guard having reported the presence of the enemy in front, I ordered a charge. Upon advancing I could discover but 3 men, 2 of whom were armed, making their escape and concealing themselves in the mountains. The third, who was engaged in cutting wood, I regret to say, was shot and badly wounded by one of the citizens who had joined me. The shooting was done after I had passed some distance beyond the point where the man was standing. Other firing occurred here on the part of the citizens. I was delayed one hour in attending to the wounded man.

Shortly after resuming the march I met the citizen who had been forced to guide the enemy across the country. He reported them as pressing forward rapidly, having heard the firing. I continued the pursuit, and when night prevented any further pursuit the trail not being visible, we were within fifteen minutes of them. I made a circuit and encamped with a view of cutting them off in the morning, but they escaped during the night across the mountains in the direction of Green River, having no doubt received accurate information as to our movements.

Upon the march back to Russellville I recovered the 8 muskets that the enemy had taken at the bridge and also 1 Colt’s rifle belonging to them.

The 4 wounded of the enemy are concealed in the neighborhood, and I have no doubt that Captain Pope will he able to find them.

I regret very much to report [that] of the $35 or 40 citizens who accompanied my command with the exception of Captain Pope and some 5 or 6 others, deserted me when their services were the most required.

I reached Bowling Green on my return at 2 o’clock this morning, with my command in good order.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

I. F. HARRISON, Captain Wirt Adams’ Cavalry.

Lieut. Col. R. C. WOOD, Jr., Commanding Wirt Adams’ Cavalry, Camp Hardee, Ky.

–––

DECEMBER 17, 1861.– Action at Rowlett’s Station (Woodsonville), Green River, Ky.

REPORTS, ETC.

No. 1.–	Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell, U. S. Army, with congratulatory orders.
No. 2.–	Brig. Gen. Alexander McD. McCook, U. S. Army.
No. 3.–	Col. August Willich Thirty-second Indiana Infantry.
No. 4.–	Brig. Gen. Thomas C. Hindman, C. S. Army, with congratulatory orders from Major-General Hardee.

No. 1.

Reports of Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell, U. S. Army, with congratulatory orders.

LOUISVILLE, Ky., December 17, 1861-12 p.m.

McCook’s division is at Munfordville, General Mitchel at Bacon Creek. We are doing pretty well. Zollicoffer is either retiring across {p.15} the Cumberland River or is prepared to do so at the approach of any superior force. Any more formidable demonstration against him would only harass my troops and derange my plans. I am letting him alone for the present.

McCook reports the rebels attacked my pickets in front of the railroad bridge at 2 p.m. to-day. The picket consisted of four companies of the Thirty-second Indiana, Colonel Willich, under Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra. Their forces consisted of one regiment Texas Rangers, two regiments infantry, one battery, six guns. Our loss, Lieutenant Sachs and 8 enlisted men killed and 16 wounded. The rebel loss, 33 killed, including Colonel Terry, of Texas, and about 50 wounded. The rebels ingloriously retreated.

D. C. BUELL, Brigadier-General.

Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN.

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, February 8, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to inclose herewith the official report of a skirmish at Rowlett’s Station, south of Green River, Kentucky, on the 17th of December, 1861, between a portion of Colonel Willich’s Thirty-second Regiment of Indiana Volunteers (German), and a brigade of the enemy under General Hindman. The gallantry displayed by the Thirty-second Indiana on the occasion has been noticed in general orders from these headquarters, a copy of which is inclosed for file with this letter and the report. Colonel Willich was at the time on other duty, and the troops engaged were commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra, whose skill and gallantry on the field merit the distinction of the brevet rank of colonel.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. C. BUELL, Brigadier-General, Commanding Department.

Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.

–––

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 23.}

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., December 27, 1861.

The general commanding takes pleasure in bringing to notice the gallant conduct of a portion of Colonel Willich’s regiment, Thirty-second Indiana, at Rowlett’s Station, in front of Munfordville, on the 17th instant.

Four companies of the regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra, on outpost duty, were attacked by a column of the enemy, consisting of one regiment of cavalry, a battery of artillery, and two regiments of infantry. They defended themselves until re-enforced by other companies of the regiment, and the fight was continued with such effect that the enemy at length retreated precipitately.

The attack of the enemy was mainly with his cavalry and artillery. Our troops fought as skirmishers, rallying rapidly into squares when charged by the cavalry, sometimes even defending themselves singly and killing their assailants with the bayonet.

{p.16}

The general tenders his thanks to the officers and soldiers of the regiment for their gallant and efficient conduct on this occasion. He commends it as a study and example to all other troops under his command, and enjoins them to emulate the discipline and instruction which insure such results.

The name of “Rowlett’s Station” will be inscribed on the regimental colors of the Thirty-second Indiana Regiment.

By command of Brigadier-General Buell:

JAMES B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General, Chief of Staff.

–––

No. 2.

Report of Brig. Gen. Alexander MCD. McCook, U. S. Army.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAMP WOOD, December 25, 1861.

CAPTAIN: Please find inclosed the official report of Col. August Willich, Thirty-second Indiana, of the affair in front of the railroad bridge over Green River. I would respectfully call the attention of the general commanding to the gallantry and good judgment of Lieutenant Colonel Von Trebra, of said regiment, during the action. The regiment behaved well; all present distinguished themselves.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. MCD. MCCOOK, Brigadier-General Volunteers, Commanding Second Division.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General, Chief of Staff.

–––

No. 3.

Report of Col. August Willich, Thirty-second Indiana Infantry.

CAMP GEORGE WOOD, December 18, 1861.

My regiment had, as usual, two companies on the south of Green River for the protection of the repairing of the railroad bridge across the Green River. The bridge built by our pontoniers being finished on the evening of the 15th instant, the former order to defend our work in case of an attack principally from the north side of the river was changed in such a manner that four companies, deployed as skirmishers, should form on the north side of Green River, while the remaining four should advance over the bridge to the south side as support of our pickets.

At 12 o’clock on the 17th of December the right wing of our picket chain (Company B Captain Glass) was annoyed by skirmishers of the enemy. Captain Glass sent out a patrol that drove them back and followed them up with the balance of his company. About a mile from the picket chain he met a company of the enemy’s infantry, whom he saluted a volley, upon which they retreated in haste. Owing to the arrival of large forces of infantry, who had by this time made their appearance, he was obliged to retreat, executing the same in good order, until re-enforcements {p.17} arrived. During this maneuver Company C advanced on the left of the pike from Woodsonville in a southward direction. There they were attacked by a company of Texas Rangers, whom they drove back. At the same time the signal of alarm was given to the remainder of the regiment and was answered with astonishing alacrity. In their anxiety to hasten to the relief of the companies that were in danger the company commanders failed to obey the instructions given by me, and all of them rushed over the bridge and up the hill, there forming in our usual position at alarm-in close column. The undersigned being at the time of the general alarm at the headquarters of the division, Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra ordered Companies K, G, and F to the support of Company B on the right wing, and Companies A and I to the support of Company C on the left wing, and Companies E and H and a few men of Company D as reserve to follow along the pike, under command of Major Schnackenberg, in the usual distance. The infantry of the enemy on both wings were thrown by the mere advance of our lines of skirmishers. But now ensued the most earnest and bloody part of the struggle.

With lightning speed, under infernal yelling, great numbers of Texas Rangers rushed upon our whole force. They advanced as near as 15 or 20 yards to our lines, some of them even between them, and then opened fire with rifles and revolvers. Our skirmishers took the thing very coolly and permitted them to approach very close, when they opened a destructive fire on them. They were repulsed under severe loss, but only after Lieutenant Sachs, who left his covered position with one platoon, was surrounded by about 50 Rangers, several of them demanding of him three times to give up his sword and let his men lay down their arms. He firmly refused, and defended himself till he fell, with 3 of his men, before the attack was repulsed.

Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra now led on another advance of the center and left flank, when he drew down on his forces a second charge of the Rangers in larger numbers, charging into the very ranks, some dashing through to the rear, which might have proved disastrous to Companies C and I had not Company H, commanded by Lieutenants Cappell and Levy, and ordered forward by Adjutant Schmitt from the reserve on the pike, advanced with a hurrah towards the Rangers and repulsed them. At this moment the artillery of the enemy with six guns commenced its well-directed but not damaging fire. Their balls and shrapnels were thrown with great precision towards the reserve companies and skirmishers near the pike, but only a few men were hurt, and those by splinters from trees and fences. Among others, our undaunted and ever-attentive Assistant Surgeon Jeancon was struck by the branch of a tree and stupefied for a short time.

While this happened, the struggle on the right flank was not less severe. Companies F, K, and B were thrown out as skirmishers, Company G in column as support. The Rangers advanced within 15 yards, and then fired with shot-guns and revolvers. Our skirmishers made great havoc among them, but finally retreated behind the square formed by Company G, Captain Welschbillig. Now a fight ensued such as seldom occurs. The Rangers, about 150 to 200, thinking they could ride over that small squad of 50 men, attacked them in front and left flank. Captain Welschbillig suffered them to approach within 20 yards, and then fired a deadly volley at them. They retreated, but only after having discharged their guns and rifles at our men. They charged a second time, and engaged in front and both flanks. Several of them came close to our bayonets. A well-aimed volley sent them back again. They made a third but weak charge, which resulted more disastrously to them than {p.18} the former. They now disappeared in wild disorder from the battleground. In their place a regiment of infantry, the band playing, advanced against the small squad. Captain Welschbillig fell back before them with his men in good order, to form with Companies I and B, Company K holding the rear. At this moment the undersigned arrived and took command of the right wing. Seeing the danger that threatened the regiment in case the enemy’s infantry (two regiments) would throw our right wing and advance on the line of retreat on the left wing, I ordered the signal “fall back slowly” to be given and formed the companies. Companies B and G fell in quickest. Company K guarded the rear. The forming of Companies B and G very likely gave rise to the enemy’s belief of a re-enforcement on our right. At the same time Company A, till then delayed by their flanking movement, appeared on the enemy’s right wing, on our left, when their artillery retreated in haste. The cavalry had disappeared from the battle-ground, and the infantry followed in double-quick time. Company A took an advanced position, holding it until the undersigned, Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra, a company (B) of the Forty-ninth Ohio, and Adjutant Schmitt, with a squad of men from my regiment, arrived to collect the dead and wounded, which were carried home under the protection of said forces. I cannot pass this without expressing my heartfelt thanks to Colonels Gibson and Harrison and their regiments, who volunteered to assist us in searching for our dead and wounded, and who took position against the enemy, giving our men help and protection.

In the fight participated 3 field, 1 staff, and 16 officers of the line, 23 sergeants, and 375 men. The force of the enemy consisted of one regiment Texas Rangers, two regiments infantry, and one battery, consisting of six guns. Our loss is, 1 officer and 10 men dead, 22 wounded, and 5 missing. The latter I hope to be able to report as wounded, and after whom I have to-day sent Lieutenant Mank, Company A, with a flag of truce.

According to the reports of our surgeons several of the wounded are beyond the hope of recovery. Yesterday the enemy reported his loss 40 killed and ours 200 killed. I venture to say that he lost in same proportion more than 40 as we lost less than 200.

It would be difficult for me to distinguish special names for their brave conduct, as this might be interpreted that others did not deserve the same praise. Every officer actually engaged distinguished himself by his coolness, courage, and judgment. Lieutenant Sachs gave way too much to his courage and advanced too hastily and too soon, which caused our mourning over his loss and that of several brave soldiers of his platoon.

As stated above, our assistant surgeon, Jeancon, was on the battleground, while our first surgeon, F. Krauth, discharged his duties faithfully at the hospital. Captains Giegoldt and Kodalle, Lieutenants Schutz, Trenck, and Kimmel were on the sick list. Lieutenant Knorr was on guard duty, and Lieutenant Pietzuch guarding the bridge with his pontoniers.

The noble conduct of some surgeons of the rebels I cannot pass with silence, although I am unable to give their names. They dressed the wounds of 3 of our men and sent them back to us in a farmer’s wagon. On our part, Lieutenant Mank, of Company A, permitted 4 men of the rebel force to carry off the corpse of Colonel Terry, of the Texas Rangers, and several wounded men.

If I take into consideration that my regiment engaged successfully a force at least seven times as strong as our own, consisting of the selected {p.19} troops of the enemy, I think I have reason to say that everybody has done his duty faithfully.

A. WILLICH, Colonel Thirty-second Indiana Volunteers.

P. S.-Although I did not intend to mention any one individually, I feel myself induced to state that Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra has gained and confirmed, not only the admiration, but the love and confidence of every man in the regiment by the skill and gallantry with which he led them to the attack.

I have to mention also Lieutenant Pietzuch and his pontoniers, who by their unceasing efforts succeeded in constructing a bridge across Green River with the poor tools and scanty material furnished them in incredibly short time. Without this bridge it would have been impossible for me to cross the river with the regiment to support our pickets and frustrate the designs of the enemy by defeating them.

In conclusion, I most respectfully call the attention of the general commanding to the report which I laid before you in regard to strength and number of my regiment, and would ask you to take it in favorable consideration.

I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,

A. W.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH BRIGADE, Camp Wood, Ky., December 18, 1861.

Respectfully forwarded. By direction of the general commanding the division I threw two regiments across the river to the assistance of the Thirty-second, though they did not reach the ground until after the enemy had been put to flight. All praise is due to Lieutenant-Colonel Von Trebra and the men under him for the gallant manner in which they repulsed the picked troops of the enemy. As only a portion of the Thirty-second was engaged I forward the report of its colonel as a full and complete report of the affair.

R. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier-General.

–––

No. 4.

Report of Brig. Gen. Thomas C. Hindman, C. S. Army, with congratulatory orders from Major-General Hardee.

HEADQUARTERS ADVANCE GUARD, Cave City, Ky., December 19, 1861.

SIR: At 8 a.m. on the 17th instant I moved towards Woodsonville, for the purpose of breaking up the railroad from the vicinity of that place southward. My force consisted of 1,100 infantry, 250 cavalry, and four pieces of artillery. When within 2 1/2 miles of Woodsonville, concealed from the enemy’s view, I halted the column and ordered forward Colonel Terry’s Rangers to occupy the heights to my right, left, and front, and Major Phifer’s cavalry to watch the crossings of Green River, still farther to my left. These orders having been executed and no force of the enemy or pickets seen, I advanced the column until the right reached the railroad. This brought me within three-quarters of a mile of the river and the enemy, but still concealed, except a small body of cavalry {p.20} upon the extreme right. Here a company of Rangers was detached to observe the enemy from Rowlett’s Knob, which was to my right, across the railroad. A strip of timber bordered the river parallel to the line held by my cavalry. Fields were between. A body of the enemy’s infantry, as skirmishers, moved through the timber by their right on my left. They were fired upon by a small body of my cavalry and retired.

The firing ceased for about half an hour, and I went in person to select a suitable place for camp, leaving Colonel Terry in command, with instructions to decoy the enemy up the hill, where I could use my infantry and artillery with effect and be out of range of the enemy’s batteries. Before returning to the column the fire from the skirmishers recommenced. The enemy appeared in force upon my right and center. Colonel Terry, at the head of 75 Rangers, charged about 300, routed and drove them back, but fell mortally wounded. A body of the enemy of about the same size attacked the Rangers, under Captain Ferrill upon the right of the turnpike, and were repulsed with heavy loss. The enemy began crossing by regiments and moving around on my right and left flanks. Three companies of Colonel Marmaduke’s (First Arkansas) battalion were thrown out as skirmishers on my left, engaged the enemy’s right, and drove them to the river. I now ordered forward Captain Swett’s battery and the Second Arkansas Regiment to support it, holding the Sixth Arkansas Regiment in reserve. The artillery opened fire upon the enemy in the field adjacent to the railroad and drove them to the banks of the river. Firing now ceased on both sides. The enemy made no further attempt to advance, but knowing that he had already crossed in force, more than double my own, and had the means of crossing additional forces, I withdrew my command by way of the turnpike two miles and a half and took position to meet the enemy if disposed to advance. There being no indications of any such intention, I returned to my camp here, reaching this place at 8 p.m.

My loss in this affair was as follows: Killed-Colonel Terry and 3 men of his regiment; dangerously wounded-Lieutenant Morris and 3 men of Texas Rangers; slightly wounded-Captain Walker and 3 men of Texas Rangers and 2 men of First Arkansas Battalion.

I estimate the enemy’s loss at 75 killed and left on the ground; wounded unknown. I have 7 prisoners; other prisoners were too badly wounded to be moved, and were left at citizens’ houses.

The troops under my command who were engaged displayed courage in excess. The others were as steady as veterans.

Very respectfully,

T. C. HINDMAN, Brigadier-General.

Lieut. D. G. WHITE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, First Division, &c.

–––

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 46.}

HDQRS. CENTRAL ARMY OF KENTUCKY, December 21, 1861.

On the 17th instant our-forces, under Brigadier-General Hindman, partially engaged a superior force of the enemy at Woodsonville.

In the action we sustained a loss of 4 killed and 9 wounded.

The enemy was driven back and lost about 50 killed and 9 prisoners.

The conduct of our troops was marked by impetuous valor. In charging the enemy Colonel Terry, of the Texas Rangers, was killed in the moment of victory. His regiment deplores the loss of a brave and beloved commander; the Army one of its ablest officers.

{p.21}

The general commanding returns his thanks to Brigadier-General Hindman and his command for their conduct in the initiative of the campaign in Kentucky, and he hails the brilliant courage shown in the affair as a bright augury of their valor when the actual hour comes for striking a decisive blow.

By order of Major-General Hardee:

D. G. WHITE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

DECEMBER 23, 1861-JANUARY 30, 1862.– Garfield’s and Marshall’s operations in Eastern Kentucky.

EVENTS.

Dec.	23, 1861.–	Union forces advance from Louisa.
Jan.	7, 1862.–	Skirmish at Jennie’s Creek.
	10, 1862.–	Engagement at Middle Creek, near Prestonburg.
	24-30, 1862.–	Expeditions to the Little Sandy and Piketon.

REPORTS, ETC.

No. 1.–	Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio, with instructions to Colonel Garfield, and congratulatory orders.
No. 2.–	Col. James A. Garfield, Forty-second Ohio Infantry, commanding brigade, with instructions to subordinates.
No. 3.–	Brig. Gen. Humphrey Marshall, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, with instructions from War Department. No. 4.-Col. A. C. Moore, Twenty-ninth Virginia Infantry.

No. 1.

Report of Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio, with instructions to Colonel Garfield, and congratulatory orders.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, January 14, 1862.

Colonel Garfield, commanding Eighteenth Brigade, reports that on the 7th instant he attacked and drove the enemy from his intrenchments at Paintsville, killing 3 and wounding several; our loss 2 killed and 1 wounded. On the 10th he attacked the main body of the enemy, under Humphrey Marshall, posted on the hills at the Forks of Middle Creek. Skirmishing commenced at 8 a.m.; engaged from 1 p.m. until dark. The enemy was driven from all his positions, and in the night burned most of his stores and fled precipitately. Our force was 1,800 infantry and 300 cavalry. The enemy had 2,500 infantry, three pieces of artillery, and six companies of cavalry. Our loss at Prestonburg, 2 killed, 25 wounded. The enemy’s loss at Prestonburg, 27 found dead on the field. He carried off his wounded and many of his killed.

We took 25 prisoners, 10 horses, and a quantity of stores.

Colonel Garfield had crossed the Big Sandy to Prestonburg on the 11th.

D. C. BUELL, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, Washington.

{p.22}

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., December 17, 1861.

Colonel GARFIELD, Forty-second Ohio Regiment, Commanding Brigade:

SIR: The brigade organized under your command is intended to operate against the rebel force threatening, and indeed actually committing, depredations in Kentucky, through the valley of the Big Sandy. The actual force of the enemy, from the best information I can gather, does not probably exceed 2,000 or 2,500, though rumor places it as high as 7,000. You can better ascertain the true state of the case when you get on the ground. You are apprised of the position of the troops placed under your command. Go first to Lexington and Paris, and place the Fortieth Ohio Regiment in such position as will best give a moral support to the people in the counties on the route to Prestonburg and Piketon, and oppose any further advance of the enemy on that route. Then proceed with the least possible delay to the mouth of the Sandy, and move with the force in that vicinity up the river, and drive the enemy back or cut him off. Having done that, Piketon will probably be the best position for you to occupy to guard against further incursion. Artillery will be of but little if any service to you in that country. If the enemy have any, it will encumber and weaken rather than strengthen them.

Your supplies must necessarily be taken up the river, and it ought to be done as soon as possible, while the navigation is open. Purchase what you can in the country through which you operate. Send your requisitions to these headquarters for funds and ordnance stores, and to the quartermaster and commissary at Cincinnati for other supplies. The conversations I have had with you will suggest more details than can be given here. Report frequently and fully upon all matters concerning your command.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. C. BUELL, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., December 28, 1861.

Colonel GARFIELD, Commanding Eighteenth Brigade, Louisa, Ky.:

The following dispatch was sent this day to Lieut. M. L. Benham, Forty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteers, Catlettsburg, via Portsmouth:

D. C. BUELL, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., January 3, 1862.

Colonel GARFIELD:

Yours of the 2d instant* has been received. The general would send you two mountain howitzers, but he is under the impression that from {p.23} the nature of the country and the season of the year you would find them more of an incumbrance than an advantage, and he hopes and expects that you will be able to accomplish important results without them. You can, however, give more in detail your views on the subject. I presume you have received my letter of the 31st* giving you information in relation to the enemy near you and my telegram requiring secrecy in regard to same.

Efforts are being made to start Colonel Lindsey, in compliance with your orders, and it is presumed he will [soon] be with you. Report frequently.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

* Not found.

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., January 20, 1862.

Colonel GARFIELD, Commanding Eighteenth Brigade, Prestonburg, Ky.:

COLONEL: Your dispatches of your attack upon the enemy at Paintsville and Prestonburg on the 7th and 10th instant have been received, and the general commanding directs me to express his gratification at the perseverance, fortitude, and gallantry displayed by yourself and your command in the campaign in which you are engaged. Your original instructions were to proceed as far as Piketon (or Pikeville), and it is inferred from the activity and energy displayed up to the date of your dispatches that you have not permitted the enemy to rest this side of that point. As it is not known here what direction Marshall has taken, it is not practicable to give you any definite instructions. He may have gone into Western Virginia or taken the road from Prestonburg or Piketon to Hazard in Perry County or Whitesburg in Letcher, and may even attempt to make his way to Cumberland Gap. You are directed in any case to drive him from the soil of Kentucky and, having done this, to act as circumstances may require, keeping this office informed of your movements and your whereabouts, that instructions may reach you. Colonel Marshall’s Kentucky regiment, from Maysville, Ky., was this day ordered to report to you, and if you should find it necessary to move to the south beyond Piketon, a force must be left at that point. It is a place which must be held, and Marshall’s regiment might receive orders from you for that purpose. It would be well for you to put yourself in communication with him as soon as practicable.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

O. D. GREENE, Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, January 24, 1862.

Col. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Paintsville, Ky.:

SIR: Your official report of the battle of Middle Creek has been received and your success will be duly noticed in orders.

The general is expecting to receive from you more detailed information in reference to the retreat of the enemy, the direction taken by {p.24} him, his probable whereabouts and condition; of his intentions, probable and future objects and movements. These points were not touched in your report.

You have probably ere this received my letter of the 20th instant, repeating the general’s wish for you to establish your force at Piketon and be sure that the enemy does not again get a foothold on Kentucky soil.

Your difficulties in reference to supplies are appreciated, but the general trusts you will overcome them. The commissary of subsistence in Cincinnati has been directed to forward two months’ supply of provisions as soon as practicable, the intention being to get a supply to you while the Big Sandy is up and before navigation ceases. The general desires you to take advantage of the high water to get your supplies of all kinds (ammunition and forage, if necessary) up-the river while opportunity is favorable.

If Eastern Kentucky is entirely freed from the enemy and Out of danger of annoyance, it is possible that yourself and part of your command may be called to other duties.

Capt. Ralph Plumb, quartermaster, was ordered to join you, on your application, from Lexington. Is he on duty with you?

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General, Chief of Staff.

–––

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 4a.}

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, Ky., January 20, 1862.

The general commanding takes occasion to thank Colonel Garfield and his troops for their successful campaign against the rebel force under General Marshall on the Big Sandy and their gallant conduct in battle. They have overcome formidable difficulties in the character of the country, the condition of the roads, and the inclemency of the season, and without artillery have, in several engagements, terminating with the battle on Middle Creek on the 10th instant, driven the enemy from his intrenched position and forced him back into the mountains with the loss of a large amount of baggage and stores and many of his men killed or captured. These services have called into action the highest qualities of a soldier-perseverance and courage.

By command of General Buell:

JAMES B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General, and Chief of Staff.

–––

HDQRS. OF THE ARMY, ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Washington, January 21, 1862.

Brig. Gen. D. C. BUELL, U.S.A., Commanding Department of the Ohio, Louisville, Ky.:

SIR: Your dispatch of the 14th instant, reporting the success of Colonel Garfield against the enemy’s forces under Humphrey Marshall at Paintsville and Prestonburg, on the 7th and 10th instant, has been received. Major-General McClellan, commanding the Army, congratulates Colonel Garfield and his brigade upon this handsome achievement {p.25} against forces superior in number and having the advantage of three pieces of artillery.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General.

–––

No. 2.

Reports of Col. Junes A. Garfield, Forty-second Ohio Infantry, commanding brigade, with instructions to subordinates.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, George’s Creek, December 26, 1861.

I arrived here last night with 900 men, Twenty-five hundred rebels are at Paintsville, 18 miles distant, with four guns. They are fortifying. The Fourteenth Kentucky can furnish only 500 effective men. They will be here soon. Colonel Lindsey has no equipments and but 600 effective men. I have ordered him to join me as soon as possible. Send me four small howitzers, with shell and shrapnel, if possible. I can get them here by boat and haul them with our mule teams, Lieut. M. L. Benham, Forty-second Regiment, awaits answer at Cincinnati.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding.

Brig. Gen. D. O. BUELL.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, George’s Creek, December 26, 1861.

SIR: I advanced from Louisa on the 23d instant, with nine companies of the Forty-second Ohio, three companies of the Fourteenth Kentucky, and Major McLaughlin’s squadron of cavalry, and reached this place, 18 miles from Paintsville, on the evening of the 24th, bringing our tents and subsistence by a flat-boat, as our train, in charge of one company of the Forty-second Ohio, had not yet arrived from Catlettsburg.

Nine companies of the Fourteenth Kentucky were allowed to remain at Louisa to await the arrival of their equipments. I expect them here to-morrow.

Colonel Lindsey has informed me that his command cannot be ready for service for an indefinite time. I herewith inclose you a copy of his communication.* I have not yet heard from Colonel Wolford’s cavalry. The roads along this valley are almost impassable; they were never more than tolerable, and in the distracted condition of the country no repairs have been made. It required four days’ hard labor to bring our train of 25 wagons, nearly empty, a distance of 28 miles. I am therefore bringing our stores to this point by the river. When we leave here we shall go back from the river up George’s Creek, and shall take our train with us. It will reach us to-morrow. I think I am now able to give you a reliable statement of the strength of the enemy in the vicinity of Paintsville at least.

I have collected and compared statements from citizens, scouts, and prisoners, and find that Colonel Williams returned about three weeks {p.26} ago with the force that retreated before General Nelson; and about ten days ago a regiment of troops from some neighboring State, probably Virginia, passed to Prestonburg, via Piketon, with a train of 55 wagons and four iron guns; one of large caliber, the others probably 6-pounders.

These two forces, amounting to from 2,000 to 2,500 men, increased by irregular bands of local rebels, mostly mounted, are now in Paintsville, and are throwing up works for defense, and sending out marauding parties in various directions, who are committing frequent murders, driving off cattle, and destroying the property of Union men. I inclose a map of the route from my camp to Paintsville.** I send a request by telegraph for at least four small howitzers.

Without a strong re-enforcement my command can hardly dislodge the enemy without the means of shelling their camp. I can furnish teams for hauling the guns, which can be sent here by the river. I earnestly hope you will be able to furnish them. I shall hope to strike a blow at an early day. I have not yet been able to send you consolidated morning reports in consequence of the separation of the parts of my command and the want of proper blanks. Requisitions have been made, but a supply has not yet been received.

I have not yet heard from the Fortieth Ohio Regiment, but have no doubt it has reached and is occupying McCormick’s Gap.

Respectfully submitted.

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

* Not found.

** See p. 35.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Pardee, January 4, 1862.

DEAR SIR: Shortly after the date of my last report to you, of December 26, I received intelligence that the enemy had retreated to a hill 3 miles from Paintsville, on the road to Prestonburg, where he is throwing up earthworks. About the same time 300 or 400 cavalry came in from West Liberty and encamped at the mouth of Jennie’s Creek, where they still remain and are actively engaged in marauding and foraging expeditions. Judging from the position of the enemy that he intended to make a stand, I dispatched a messenger to Colonel Cranor, ordering him to proceed to Prestonburg via Hazel Green and Burning Spring, sending a strong party of cavalry via West Liberty and Licking Station to drive in the rebel forces on that route and protect Colonel Cranor’s flank, and join him again before he reached Prestonburg. He was then to move down the river and hold himself in readiness to attack the enemy’s position or cut off his retreat. I herewith inclose a copy of my instructions to him.

The messenger was expected to return on Monday evening, December 30, but did not reach me till Wednesday. On Tuesday, December 31, I moved up George’s Creek 8 miles, with the Forty-second Ohio, five companies of the Fourteenth Kentucky, and McLaughlin’s squadron of cavalry, and encamped at the foot of Brown’s Hill. I there waited one day the arrival of Colonel Moor’s [Cranor’s?] train, part of which reached me January 1. Six of his wagons have not yet arrived. On the evening of {p.27} January 1 my messenger from Colonel Cranor arrived, informing [me] that his regiment arrived at McCormick’s Gap on Sunday, December 29, and would leave there in conformity with my orders on the following morning. It consumed the whole of January 2 and 3 and required a working party of 100 men to get our train over Brown’s Hill to this point, on the headwaters of Tom’s Creek, a distance of but little more than 3 miles from our former place of encampment. To-day our scouts encountered and drove back a hundred of the enemy’s cavalry from Tom’s Hill, 2 1/2 miles on the route to Paintsville. Our advance guard is holding the position to-night.

In view of the exceedingly bad condition of the roads, made worse by the heavy rains of the last two days, I have dispatched a second messenger to Colonel Cranor, appointing Monday next as the time when I hope to drive in the enemy’s cavalry and occupy the mouth of Jennie’s Creek. I am exceedingly perplexed by the non-arrival of Lindsey’s regiment. When I first arrived at Catlettsburg I ordered him to join me as soon as he could obtain the requisite outfit. On Saturday last he broke up his camp and moved to Ashland, as I supposed, on his way up the valley. On Wednesday I heard that he had not yet left Ashland. I then sent him a peremptory order to move forward, but up to this time I have not heard from him. The two companies of Colonel Wolford’s cavalry, which were ordered to join me, I have never heard from.

I stated in my last report that Major McLaughlin’s [cavalry] had no carbines. I turned over to them the rifles belonging to such of the Forty-second Ohio as were sick and on detached duty, and they still use them. The major received a full supply of pistol cartridges a few days ago, but no caps came with them.

The squadron has but very little drill and cannot be relied on for much service, except scout and messenger duty. But, notwithstanding these drawbacks, I shall advance, and shall hope we may at least narrow down the limits of the enemy’s depredations. Since my last report we have had 4 men from Major McLaughlin’s cavalry captured by the enemy’s scouts. We have taken 1 of his men, and Colonel Cranor has taken several more.

I was much in hopes I could have had a howitzer battery. Still, if I had an infantry force in this column equal to the enemy’s I should have no doubt of being able to capture him. I shall try his strength as soon as I can draw him down from his position. I have not yet received any blanks, and hence have forwarded no morning reports. I inclose maps.*

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Eighteenth Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

* Not found.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Paintsville, Ky., January 8, 1862.

DEAR SIR: On Sunday, January 5, I drove in several small scouting parties of the enemy, killing 1 of them. On Monday, January 6, I moved on to the mouth of Muddy Branch. The enemy came down the {p.28} same evening from his intrenched hill, with one 12-pounder and two regiments of infantry, and occupied the southern bank of Paint Creek. When his scouts were drawn in they reported the advance of my whole column, and immediately Marshall broke up his camp, burned many of his wagons, and a large amount of corn, oats, meal, sugar, rice, and other provisions, and during the night of January 5 and all the following day he was hurrying his trains and infantry away on retreat. His cavalry remained behind, kept up a show of resistance, and thus kept their retreat a secret. Colonel Bolles, of the Second Virginia Cavalry, had been ordered by General Cox, commanding Department of the Kanawha, to co-operate with me, in view of the fact that bands of rebels were coming in from the Virginia side of the Sandy, and joined me on Monday at noon. We then moved forward, with the Forty-second Ohio, Fourteenth Kentucky, and 800 of Colonel Bolles’ cavalry, and occupied this place. The rebel pickets were still on the opposite side of Paint Creek and retreated as we advanced. I immediately sent Colonel Bolles, with his 300 cavalry, to attack and drive back the rebels at Jennie’s Creek, while I advanced with 1,000 men to attack General Marshall’s position. I was obliged to construct a pontoon bridge across Paint Creek, and did not get my column in motion until sunset. We then advanced along an unfrequented road, and at 8 o’clock occupied the rebel fortifications 4 miles above here. We found his camp-fires still burning, and his whole camp showed signs of panic and most disorderly retreat. I then marched down Jennie’s Creek to sad Colonel Bolles. Before we reached him his advance of 60 men had attacked 200 rebel cavalry, killed 6, wounded several, and scattered them among the hills. Colonel Bolles had 2 killed and 1 wounded.

To-day we have occupied all their works and sent out cavalry scouts to learn the direction of their retreat. Colonel Bolles has given me very efficient aid, but his orders will not permit him to remain with me longer. To-morrow morning I start in pursuit with 1,000 infantry and 400 cavalry.

Colonel Cranor, Fortieth Ohio, and six companies (300 men) of Wolford’s cavalry, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Letcher, have joined me to-day. They had construed the enemy’s retreat into an intended attack, and not being able to resist the whole rebel force, which has been increased by late re-enforcements to over 4,000 men, came down Paint Creek instead of going on to Prestonburg.

We have taken 15 prisoners, which I have this day sent to Newport Barracks. The vicinity of the rebel camps presents a scene of utter desolation. They have appropriated and destroyed an immense amount of property.

The transportation for our stores has been a work of extreme difficulty. But now that we have reached the river, we will hurry them up by boats. I shall hope to occupy Prestonburg to-morrow evening. I fear we shall not be able to catch the enemy in a “stern chase,” but we shall try. Since he has left his stronghold I think I shall not need any artillery.

The health of my command is very good, considering the hard service they have been engaged in. I send you a sketch of Marshall’s defenses. The extent and character of the works indicate a larger force than I had supposed they had. I regret to say I have not received any blanks and have not made out any brigade morning reports. I have the materials for them, and will forward them as soon as the blanks arrive.

{p.29}

Your telegram of the 2d instant, instructing me to keep secret the facts in your letter of the 31st ultimo, was duly received, but the letter referred to has not yet reached me.

From all the indications I am led to believe the enemy is retreating in a southwest direction from Prestonburg toward the Cumberland Gaps. How tar in that direction shall I be permitted to follow him?

Very truly, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Prestonburg, Ky., January 11, 1862.

I left Paintsville on Thursday noon with 1,100 men, and drove in the enemy’s pickets 2 miles beyond Prestonburg. The men slept on their arms. At 4 o’clock yesterday morning we moved toward the main body of the enemy at the Forks of Middle Creek, under command of Marshall. Skirmishing with his outposts began at 8 o’clock, and at 1 o’clock p.m. we engaged his force of 2,500 men and three cannon posted on the hill. Fought them until dark. Having been re-enforced by 700 men from Paintsville, drove the enemy from all their positions. He carried off the majority of his dead and all his wounded. This morning we found 27 of his dead on the field. His killed cannot be less than 60. We have taken 25 prisoners, 10 horses, and a quantity of stores. The enemy burned most of his stores and fled precipitately.

To-day I have crossed the river, and am now occupying Prestonburg. Our loss 2 killed and 25 wounded.

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

PAINTSVILLE, January 8, 1862. (Via Portsmouth, Ohio, 14th.)

I entered this place yesterday with the Forty-second Ohio and Fourteenth Kentucky and 300 Second Virginia Cavalry. On hearing of my approach the main rebel force left their strongly-intrenched camp and fled. I sent my cavalry to the mouth of Jennie’s, where they attacked and drove the rebel cavalry, which had been left as a vanguard, 5 miles, killing 3 and wounding a considerable number. Marshall’s whole army is now flying in utter confusion. He has abandoned and burned a large amount of his stores. We have taken 15 prisoners. Our loss was 2 killed and 1 wounded. I start in pursuit to-morrow morning.

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

{p.30}

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Buell, Paintsville, January 14, 1862.

DEAR SIR: At the date of my last report (January 8) I was preparing to pursue the enemy. The transportation of my stores from George’s Creek had been a work of so great difficulty that I had not enough provisions here to give my whole command three days’ rations before starting. One small boat had come up from below, but I found it had only enough provisions here for three days’ rations of hard bread for 1,500 men. Having issued that amount, I sent 450 of Colonel Wolford’s and Major McLaughlin’s cavalry, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Letcher, to advance up Jennie’s Creek, and harass the enemy’s rear if still retreating. At the same time I took 1,100 of the best men from the Fortieth and Forty-second Ohio and the Fourteenth and Twenty-second Kentucky (three companies of Colonel Lindsey’s regiment, the Twenty-second Kentucky, had arrived the evening before), and at noon started up the Big Sandy towards Prestonburg. After advancing 10 miles the enemy’s pickets fired on our advance and retreated.

At 8 o’clock we reached the mouth of Abbott’s Creek, 1 mile below Prestonburg. I then found that the enemy was encamped on the creek 3 miles above, and had been supplying himself with meal at a steam-mill in the vicinity. I sent back an order to Paintsville to move forward all our available force, having learned that another boat load of stores had arrived. I then encamped on the crest of a wooded hill, where we slept on our arms in the rain till 4 o’clock in the morning, when I moved up Abbott’s Creek 1 mile and crossed over to the mouth of Middle Creek, which empties into the Big Sandy opposite Prestonburg. Supposing the enemy to be encamped on Abbott’s Creek, it was my intention to advance up Middle Creek and cut off his retreat, while the cavalry should attack his rear. I advanced slowly, throwing out flankers and feeling my way cautiously among the hills. At 8 o’clock in the morning we reached the mouth of Middle Creek, where my advance began a brisk skirmishing with the enemy’s cavalry, which continued till we had advanced 2 1/2 miles up the stream to within 1,000 yards of the forks of the creek, which I had learned the enemy were then occupying.

I drew up my force on the sloping point of a semicircular hill, and at 12 o’clock sent forward 20 mounted men to make a dash across the plain. This drew the enemy’s fire, and in part disclosed his position. The Fifty-fourth Virginia Regiment (Colonel Trigg) was posted behind the farther point of the same ridge which I occupied. I immediately sent forward two Kentucky companies to pass along this crest of the ridge, and one company Forty-second Ohio, under command of Capt. F. A. Williams, together with one under Captain Jones, Fortieth Ohio, to cross the creek, which was nearly waist-deep, and occupy a spur of the high rocky ridge in front and to the left of my position.

In a few minutes the enemy opened a fire from one 6 and one 12 pounder. A shell from the battery fell in the midst of my skirmishers on the right, but did not explode. Soon after the detachment on the left engaged the enemy, who was concealed in large force behind the ridge. I sent forward a re-enforcement of two companies to the right, under Major Burke, of the Fourteenth Kentucky, and 90 men, under Major Pardee, of the Forty-second Ohio, to support Captain Williams. The enemy withdrew his Fifty-fourth Virginia across the creek, and sent strong re-enforcements to the hills on the left. About 2 o’clock I ordered Colonel Cranor, with 150 men from the Fortieth and Forty-second Ohio and Twenty-second Kentucky, to re-enforce Major Pardee, {p.31} Meantime the enemy had occupied the main ridge to a point nearly opposite the right of my position, and opened a heavy fire on my reserve, which was returned with good effect. In order more effectually to prevent his attempt to outflank me I sent Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe, of the Twenty-second Kentucky, with 120 of his own and the Fourteenth Regiment, to cross the creek a short distance below the point I occupied, and drive back the enemy from his position. This he did in gallant style, killing 15 or 20. Inch by inch the enemy, with more than three times our number, were driven up the steep ridge nearest the creek by Colonel Cranor and Major Pardee.

At 4 o’clock the re-enforcement under Lieutenant-Colonel Sheldon, of the Forty-second Ohio, came in sight, which enabled me to send forward the remainder of my reserve, under Lieutenant-Colonel Brown, to pass around to the right and endeavor to capture the enemy’s guns, which he had been using against us for three hours, but without effect. During the fight he had fired 30 rounds from his guns, but they were badly served, as only one of his shells exploded, and none of his shot, not even his canister, took effect. At 4.30 he ordered a retreat. My men drove him down the slopes of the hills, and at 5 o’clock he had been driven from every point. Many of my men had fired 30 rounds. It was growing dark, and I deemed it unsafe to pursue him, lest my men on the different hills should fire on each other in the darkness. The firing had scarcely ceased when a brilliant light streamed up from the valley to which the enemy had retreated. He was burning his stores and fleeing in great disorder. Twenty-five of his dead were left on the field, and 60 more were found next day thrown into a gorge in the hills. He has acknowledged 125 killed and a still larger number wounded. A field officer and 2 captains were found among the dead. Our loss was 1 killed and 20 wounded, 2 of whom have since died. We took 25 prisoners, among whom was a rebel captain. Not more than 900 of my force were actually engaged, and the enemy had not less than 3,500 men.

Special mention would be invidious when almost every officer and man did his duty. A majority of them fought for five hours without cessation. The cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Letcher, did not reach me until the next morning, when I started them in pursuit. They followed 6 miles and took a few prisoners, but, their provisions being exhausted, they returned. A few howitzers would have added greatly to our success.

On the 11th I crossed the river and occupied Prestonburg. The place was almost deserted. I took several horses, 18 boxes quartermaster’s stores, and 25 flint-lock muskets. I found the whole community in the vicinity of Prestonburg had been stripped of everything like supplies for an army. I could not find enough forage for my horses for over one day, and so sent them back to Paintsville. I had ordered the first boat that arrived at Paintsville to push on up to Prestonburg, but I found it would be impossible to bring up our tents and supplies until more provisions could be brought up the river. I therefore moved down to this place on the 12th and 13th, bringing my sick and foot-sore men on boats. I am hurrying our supplies up to this point. The marches over these exceedingly bad roads and the night exposures have been borne with great cheerfulness by my men, but they are greatly in need of rest and good care.

I cannot close this communication without making honorable mention of Lieut. J. D. Stubbs, quartermaster of the Forty-second Ohio, and senior quartermaster of the brigade. He has pushed forward the transportation {p.32} of our stores with an energy and determination which have enabled him to overcome very many and great obstacles, and his efforts have contributed greatly to the success of the expedition and the health and comfort of my command.

In a subsequent report I will communicate some facts relative to my command and also in regard to the situation of the country through which the enemy has been operating.

Very truly, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Buell, Paintsville, Ky., January 17, 1862.

DEAR SIR: In my last report to you reasons were given why I did not move forward to Prestonburg with my whole force.

In this I desire to submit some further facts relative to the condition of my command and the situation of the country in which the enemy has been operating. The Fortieth and Forty-second Ohio Regiments are in good condition, considering the hard service they have rendered. The Fourteenth Kentucky is composed of excellent material, but is in a wretched state of discipline. Very few of its members have been drilled in the school of the soldier, much less that of the company and battalion. It can be considered but little better than a well-disposed, Union-loving mob, which, if its scattered fragments can be gathered up, may be converted into a very serviceable regiment.

The Twenty-second Kentucky I have not yet had the pleasure of seeing together. Three companies (200 men) joined me just in time to aid in the fight at Middle Creek. The remnant, about the same number, I have left at Louisa to guard our stores. I shall hope to get them here soon. From what I have seen I am encouraged to hope they are in a tolerably good state of discipline.

The six companies (300) of the First Kentucky Cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Letcher, have been very hard-worked, and have a sick list of 207 men, as reported to me by their surgeon. A large number referred to refused to come into the mountains, and many that started deserted by the road.

Colonel Letcher is an admirable gentleman, but a more demoralized, discouraged body of men I have never seen. Major McLaughlin’s squadron of cavalry are in a better state of discipline, and a few weeks of drill will make them quite serviceable. I shall do what I can to better the condition of the brigade as opportunity offers. I venture to suggest that the removal of Colonel Letcher’s detachment of cavalry and the supplying of its place by another in better condition Would be very serviceable both to Colonel Wolford’s command and to this brigade.

From the best information I can obtain the upper part of the Sandy Valley is almost deserted. The expedition of General Nelson, followed by Marshall’s, has swept away almost everything on which an army could subsist. Indeed, the late re-enforcements which joined Marshall’s army came from the Gap by way of the Kentucky River, because they could find neither food nor forage between Piketon and Prestonburg. On the day following the fight I sent my cavalry back to this place, because I could not find forage for even a single day.

{p.33}

The enemy retreated after the battle to the Forks of Beaver Creek, 20 miles southwest of Prestonburg, and seems to be making his way towards the valley of the Kentucky River. Our prisoners say he intends to winter at Whitesburg or join the rebel forces towards the Cumberland Gap. The uncertainty of transportation by the river and the impossibility of finding subsistence for my force at Prestonburg or Piketon seem to me to indicate this as the most eligible place for winter quarters.

For the last five days no boats have been able to come up the river in consequence of the exceeding high waters, while they have been kept from coming up a much longer time since I arrived in the valley in consequence of low water.

I respectfully solicit instructions in regard to my future movements.

Very truly, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Paintsville, Ky., January 10, 1862.

Citizens of the Sandy Valley:

I have come among you to restore the honor of the Union, and to bring back the old banner which you all once loved, but which by the machinations of evil men and by mutual misunderstandings has been dishonored among you. To those who are in arms against the Federal Government I offer only the alternative of battle or unconditional surrender. But to those who have taken no part in this war, who are in no way aiding or abetting the enemies of the Union-even to those who hold sentiments averse to the Union, but yet give no aid and comfort to its enemies-I offer the full protection of the Government, both in their persons and property.

Let those who have been seduced away from the love of their country to follow after and aid the destroyers of our peace lay down their arms return to their homes, bear true allegiance to the Federal Government, and they shall also enjoy like protection. The Army of the Union wages no war of plunder, but comes to bring back the prosperity of peace. Let all peace-loving citizens who have fled from their homes return and resume again the pursuits of peace and industry. If citizens have suffered from any outrages by the soldiers under my command I invite them to make known their complaints to me, and their wrongs shall be redressed and the offenders punished. I expect the friends of the Union in this valley to banish from among them all private feuds, and let a liberal-minded love of country direct their conduct towards those who have been so sadly estranged and misguided. Hoping that these days of turbulence may soon be ended and the better days of the Republic soon return, I am, very respectfully,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Buell, Paintsville, Ky., January 30, 1862.

SIR: On the 24th instant I sent out two detachments, one of 150 infantry, which has just returned from the headwaters of Little Sandy, {p.34} where it dispersed two companies of rebels, who were engaged in plundering; the other (110 cavalry) proceeded to the head of John’s Creek and thence to Piketon. Both expeditions have terminated successfully. Ten prisoners were taken and a number of horses. There is now no enemy nearer than Whitesburg, where Marshall is encamped with the remnant of his brigade. His two Virginia regiments went home soon after the battle, and over 40 deserters have voluntarily given themselves up to me. I shall immediately move forward.

Very respectfully,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

CAMP BUELL, Paintsville, January 30, 1862.

DEAR SIR: Since the date of my last report (January 17) we have had the heaviest and longest-continued rains that have been known in this valley for many years. The roads, which were very bad before, have been ruined, and it will require a great amount of labor to render them again passable for wagons.

For nearly ten days the river was so high that boats could not run up, in consequence of the overhanging trees almost meeting in the middle of the stream. It is now at a good stage, and we are getting our supplies in abundance.

I have obtained reliable information of the late operations of the enemy. Immediately after the battle of Middle Creek he retreated 20 miles, to Beaver Creek, at which place his brigade organization seemed almost to have dissolved. A re-enforcement of one infantry regiment and a battery of artillery from Virginia, which was within two days’ march, hearing of Marshall’s flight, turned back and retired through the Pound Gap. The two Virginia regiments, under Colonels Trigg and Moore, left him at Beaver Creek, and went back to Virginia by the same route. I had prepared an expedition to move up the river by boats and get above his camp on Beaver, when I learned the remnant of his brigade had gone to Whitesburg, though his Kentucky regiments were decimated by desertions. One squad of 42 threw down their guns and deserted in a body. I am every day discharging on parole numbers of deserters, who voluntarily give themselves up.

A few days since I sent a detachment of 110 mounted men to Piketon, who dispersed a marauding band and captured several leading and active rebels, whom I have sent to Newport Barracks. In the pursuit Judge Cecil, of Piketon, was killed, and a Dr. Emmet severely wounded.

About one week since I learned that a predatory band of 150 men had gone out from Marshall’s brigade a short time before his flight, and were encamped among the cliffs of Little Sandy, where they were raising recruits and committing depredations upon the property of citizens. I sent a party of 150 men, who dispersed them, taking a number of prisoners and horses. I believe there now is no enemy in Eastern Kentucky nearer to me than Whitesburg.

In my last report I asked for instructions in regard to my future movements. I have not yet received them. I have, however, ventured to order one regiment to move forward to Piketon, to watch the enemy and protect the border until I receive further instructions.

{p.35}

Hoping that I may be permitted to pass the gates of the mountains and strike at the great rebel railroad, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, George’s Creek, December 28, 1861.

Col. JONATHAN CRANOR, Commanding Fortieth Ohio Volunteers:

DEAR SIR: We now have reached a point from which we can begin to act in concert. I have advanced to within 18 miles of the enemy, who has just retired to a point 2 or 3 miles back of Paintsville, where he seems to be fortifying. He has two full regiments, under Humphrey Marshall, a brigadier-general in the rebel army, and an irregular force of local rebels, which makes their force about 2,500 men. They have four small guns, probably 6-pounders, and a considerable part of their force is cavalry. They seemed to be somewhat surprised, and about 300 came in from West Liberty a day or two since in some confusion, which leads me to suspect that they have heard from your scouts. My information is of such a character as to induce me to believe it is reliable.

The plan of our joint operations will be understood from the accompanying map.* My messenger will reach you on Sunday morning. You will at once take up your line of march toward Prestonburg, by the way of Hazel Green and Burning Spring. Send a sufficiently strong force by way of West Liberty and Licking Station to protect your flank, and hold itself in readiness either to join you from the latter place or to proceed directly to Paintsville, according to the necessities of the case. You will advance with the greatest dispatch to Prestonburg, and if the enemy continues to hold his present position, 9 miles north of Prestonburg, as indicated on the inclosed map, you will advance toward him along the road from Prestonburg, to attack him in the rear or cut off his retreat, while my force attacks him from the Paintsville road. I shall hope you will be able to reach Prestonburg by Wednesday or Thursday. I shall leave this point on Monday; shall advance by easy marches; shall endeavor to keep his attention directed this way, and shall hope to offer him battle on Thursday or Friday. Our hope of success depends upon the celerity, promptness, and unity of our movements. Not having heard from you, I am left in some doubt of your being able to carry out the part of the programme assigned to you. There may also be enemies on your route that I do not know of. Make a full report of your situation to me by the express rider who delivers this, and he will return your answer to me in time to make any change in the plan which may be necessary. The opportunity is now before us, and I shall expect every effort will be made to improve it. The messenger will report to you verbally our strength and condition.

Very respectfully, yours,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

P. S. We shall be able to communicate with each other at several points on your route.

* Not found.

{p.36}

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Tom’s Creek, January 3, 1862.

Col. JONATHAN CRANOR, Commanding Fortieth Ohio Volunteers:

DEAR SIR: My messenger, who was sent to you, did not reach me till Wednesday evening. Fearing he had been captured, I halted at the end of one day’s march, and dispatched another, who met the first one 18 miles on the way, and returned with him. I then moved on to this place, and have this evening succeeded in getting my trains here, over almost impassable roads. From what I have learned of the country through which you are to pass I am quite sure you cannot have made more than half or two-thirds the distance to Prestonburg. I send a messenger to apprise you of the present posture of the enemy and of my force.

The main body of his force is encamped on Hagar’s farm, about 3 miles from Paintsville, on the road leading to Prestonburg. He has a force of from 300 to 400 cavalry encamped at the mouth of Jennie’s Creek, 2 miles above Paintsville, on Paint Creek.

It is rumored that he has re-enforcements coming in from Virginia by way of Piketon. This is only a rumor, to which I do not give much credit, but which you will need to inquire into.

The tardiness with which my Kentucky forces are coming up, together with the ascertained character of the roads over which you are to pass, leads me to delay the time of our attack. You will advance as rapidly as possible, but with great caution as you approach the vicinity of the enemy. I shall probably be at the mouth of Jennie’s Creek on Monday night.

We must immediately open and maintain a line of safe communication between our two columns. Let me hear from you very often.

Very truly, yours,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Pardee, January 5, 1862.

Capt. P. BUNKER, Commanding Post, Louisa, Ky.:

DEAR SIR: Your report of yesterday, containing an intercepted letter of Dr. Shelton, is just received.* I am very much gratified with the intelligence that you have killed or disabled Smith and captured some of his associates. Send away all such men as fast as possible. You are doing good service in your present position, as the enemy is evidently anxious to outflank me and, if possible, cut off my supplies. Make frequent reports of your operations and give me any information you may obtain which will forward the success of our expedition. I sent you full orders a few days since, which I hope have reached you before this.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

* Not found.

{p.37}

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Pardee, January 5, 1862.

Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, Commanding Division of Kanawha:

DEAR SIR: I am now within 5 miles of Paintsville. The main force of the enemy is entrenched on two hills, 3 miles back of the town, on the road to Prestonburg. Five hundred of his cavalry are encamped at the mouth of Jennie’s Creek, 2 miles west of Paintsville. We are skirmishing with his scouts daily. He has lately been re-enforced by 400 of Jenkins’ cavalry and a few hundred men who were driven in from West Liberty by the Fortieth Ohio, which is advancing toward Prestonburg. My Kentucky forces are very slow in coming up, and I have but 1,300 men here, though I expect 500 of the Twenty-second Kentucky to reach me in a few days. I am also exceedingly glad to hear that Colonel Bolles, of your department, is coming with 500 cavalry to join me. For this I am under great obligations to you.

By examining the position of our own and the enemy’s forces, I believe if the force which you have sent to Logan County could be sent westward, and act in concert with our forces here, the enemy’s retreat could be completely Cut off, and his whole army, which now amounts to from 4,000 to 5,000, could be captured. I have learned that there is a feasible route from Logan County to the Big Sandy down the valley of John’s Creek, or, in case the enemy should retreat, your column could head him off on his route from Prestonburg to Piketon.

If it is consistent with the interests of your command, I hope you will allow that column to act in concert with me.

Very truly,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Pardee, January 5, 1862.

Capt. JACOB HEATON, Acting Assistant Commissary Subsistence:

DEAR SIR: My messenger has just returned, bringing your dispatches.* I am exceedingly grateful for the very prompt and energetic manner in which you have pushed our interests in regard to re-enforcements. It took nearly two days for us to get our own train over the mountains to this place, 3 miles from our former camp. Here I have waited two days to hear from our re-enforcements. We are now within 5 miles of Paintsville and 6 1/2 miles from the mouth of Jennie’s Creek, where the rebel cavalry are encamped. We have had two slight skirmishes with their pickets within the last twenty-four hours. They have been re-enforced within the last few days, and I have some reason to believe that Jenkins has joined them with 400 of his men.

I am exceedingly anxious to reach the river, where we can get stores by boat, and also I desire to occupy the mouth of Jennie’s Creek. I expect to move to-morrow, and if Colonel Bolles’ cavalry reaches me I shall be able to accomplish both these purposes soon.

From a messenger just arrived I learn that part of Colonel Lindsey’s force has reached Louisa, and part of the rest will be there this evening. Now the river has so raised that I think his regiment can be taken up {p.38} the river to the mouth of Muddy Branch, a little below the mouth of Paint Creek; at any rate, they can be taken to the mouth of George’s Creek. I hope you have succeeded in getting Colonel Lightburn’s regiment to come up and co-operate with us. The enemy is rallying for a desperate effort, and the expedition is growing up to proportions that I did not at first expect, but if our friends come up to the work our prospect is very good. I have sent by the messenger who bears this a dispatch to General Cox, asking him to move his expedition to Logan Court-House westward, and help cut off the enemy’s retreat. Please send forward the dispatch.**

...

Very truly, yours,

J. A. GARFIELD, Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

* Not found.

** Some matter of detail omitted.

–––

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE, Camp Pardee, January 5, 18