Wm Oland Bourne Left-Handed Penmanship Contest BOX 2 FOLDER 8 Series I 81-90 No 81 1865 Dec 25 Series I [Th] Fred C. Barger 81 Westfield Chaut. Co. New York September 28th 1865 William Oland Bourne Editor "Soldiers Friend" Dear Sir I received from a friend a copy of your paper. containing your very generous inducement for us left handed Soldiers to write. and as I think it would be very ungrateful in us not to try. I take pleasure in forwarding my effort to do well. Regarding my military history. (which you require) I will say. I enlisted August 8th 1861. in Company "G", 49th Regiment New York Volunteer Inft'y. I was mustered into the U.S. service August 30th as a private in the same company. but was soon promoted to 3d Sergeant. We left our Rendezvous at Fort Porter. Buffalo N.Y. Sept 16 1861. received our arms and accoutrements in New York. passed through Washington. and the last of September found us at the front. doing picket duty on the Potomac. We were assigned to the 3d Brigade of "Baldy" Smiths Division. afterwards known as 3d Brigade 2nd Division 6th Army Corps. We passed the winter quietly. with an occasional reconnaissance. and foraging expedition. to relieve the monotony of camp life. took a prominent part in the masterly advance upon the wooden guns. and unprotected earthworks of Manassas. and on Sunday the 24" of March, embarked on the transport "T.V. Arrowsmith" for Richmond, via Fortress Monroe, and the Peninsula, (at which place we did not arrive at the appointed time) We participated in most of the Battles in the memorable Peninsula campaign. (during which time I exchanged my musket and chevrons for the sword and straps of a Second Lieutenant) and marching from Harrisons Landing to Fortress Monroe, we embarked on the 22nd of August on the transport "Vanderbilt". and arrived at Alexandria again on the 24th. assisting in covering the retreat of Gen Pope at the 2nd Bull Run. we returned to Alexandria on the 4th of September. I had by this time been promoted to 1st Lieutenant. and on account of the sickness of my Captain. was in command of my company. (being at this time 19 years of age) I commanded the company during the Maryland campaign. at Cramptons Gap South Mountain and Antietam. we went into camp at Hagarstown and remained there until October 29th when we started for "sacred soil" again. passing through Williamsport. Bakersville. Bunketsville. Boonsboro. and Petersville. crossing the Potomac at Berlin on pontoons. (the bridge at that place having been destroyed by Rebel cavalry) passed through Union. White Plains. and New Baltimore. near Warrenton. to Aquia Creek. where we went into camp about four miles from Stafford Court House. here we remained until the 4th of December. when we broke camp and started for the ever-to-be-remembered Fredericksburg. on the 13th of December our line was ordered to the front. (as we were the supporting line on the day previous) and about 8 o'clock in the morning I was wounded by a fragment of a 32 pound shell. in the right hand. and wrist. rendering amputation necessary. On the 1? of May. while under medical treatment No 81 ? 30 ? at Washington. I was ordered to report for duty. to Col. Robert Nugent. a.a.P.M. General Southern Div. of New York. at New York City. I was appointed on his staff as Inspector. and upon his being relieved by Brig. Gen. Wm. Hayes. was retained by him in the same position. until May 11th 1864. when I was discharged. by order of the Secretary of War. on account of wounds received in action. Since my return home I have been obliged to have a second amputation. losing about four inches more than by the first operation. I have now a good arm. and am going to try an artificial hand. Thanking you. in behalf of the lefthanded Soldiers. for your kind interest in our welfare. I have the honor to subscribe myself. Your obedient Ser't Fred LeBarger- late of Co. G. 49" Regt N.Y.V. Westfield [?Charles?] N.Y. December 25 1865 William Oland Bourne Editor Soldiers Friend Dear Sir I received from a friend a copy of your paper containing your very generous inducement for us left handed Soldiers to write. and as I think it would be very ungrateful in us not to try. I take pleasure in forwarding my effort to do well. Regarding my military history (which you require) I will say. I en- listed August 8th 1861 in Company "G" 119th Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry. I was mustered into the U.S. service on the 30th of August, as a private in the 2 same company, but was soon after pro- moted to 3rd Sergeant. We left our Rendezvous at Fort Porter Buffalo N.Y. Sept. 16th 1861. received our arms and accoutrementy at New York City. passed through Washington. and the last of September found us at the front doing Picket duty on the Potomac. We were assign- ed to the 3rd Brigade of "Baldy" Smiths Div. afterwards Known as the 3rd Brigade 2nd Div. 6th Corps. Army of the Potomac. We passed the winter quietly with an occasional reconnaissance and foraging expedition, to break the monotony of our camp life. took a prominent part in the masterly advance upon the wooden guns and unprotected earthworks of Manassas and upon Sunday the 24th of March 3. embarked at Alexandria on the transport "T.V. Arrowsmith" for Richmond via Fortress Monroe and the Peninsula. (at which place we did not arrive at the appointed time) We participated in most of the Battles of the memorable Peninsular Campaign.(during which I exchanged Musket and Chevrons for the sword and strafs of a 2nd Lieutenant.) and marching from Harrison's Landing to Fortress Monroe, we embarked on the Vander- -bilt and arrived at Alexandria again on the 24th. Assisting in covering Popes retreat at Bull Run. we returned to Alexandria on the 4th of September. I had at this time been promoted to 1st Lieutenant. and on account of the sickness of my Captain, was in command of my company. (being at this time 19 years of age.). I commanded 4. the company during the Maryland Campaign. at Cramptons Gap South Moun- -tain and Antietam. We went into camp at Hagerstown Md. and remained there until October 29th when we broke camp and started again for "Sacred Soil" passing through Williamsport, Bakersville, Berketsville, Boons- -boro and Petersville. crossing the Potomac at Berline on pontoons. (the bridge at that place having been destroyed by the Rebel cavalry.) Passed though Union- White Plains, New Baltimore, and Warren- ton, and arrived at Aqua Creek where we went into camp. about four miles from Stafford Court House. here we remained until the 4th of September, when we "struck tents" and started for the ever-to-be-remem- bered "Fredericksburg." On the 13th of Dec our line was ordered to the front(as we were supporting line on the previous day) and about eight o'clock in the morning I was wounded by a fragment of a 32 pound shell, in the right hand and wrist rendering amputation necessary. On the 7th of May while under medi- cal treatment at Washington, I was ordered to report for duty to Col. Robert Nugent. A.A. P.M. General Southern Division of New York at New York city. I was appointed on his staff as Inspector and when he was reliev- ed by Brig. Gen'l Wm Hayes remained in the same position under him until May 11th 1864 when I was discharged by order of the Secretary of War. on account of wounds received in action. Since my return home I have been 6. obliged to undergo another amputation on account of a poor operation on the field. losing about four inches more of the arm. I hope now to be able to get an artificial hand. Thank you in behalf of the left handed "Soldiers for the Union" for your kind interest in our welfare- I have the honor to subscribe myself Your obedient Servant Fred C. Barger. State of Co. G. 49th Regt N.Y. Vols- Westfield Dec 29" 1865 William Oland Bourne Dear Sir I enclose a second specimen of left handed penmanship. I have been unable to do as well as I had expected. and wished to do on account of a lameness in my left shoulder which interferes materially with my writing I think however that it is better than the specimen which I sent you in Sept. as it is not so "cramped". I am far from being satisfied myself. but think it is as well as I can do. under the circumstances. the composition is the same as the first. I could not enlarge upon it as writing is not my "forte" and I did not find anything which I wished to copy. it is a simple account of my military service in the cause "for the Union" and I have news. in my misfortune. for an instant regretted shouldering my musket . and "going for soger" With my best wishes for your welfare I remain Very truly Yours Fred LeBarger I sent a copy of this to your home in Westfield but about that time you came to New York. - Please fill it up properly - have it certified before a notary, and send or bring it to the Office of the "SOLDIER'S FRIEND," No. 12 Centre Street, NEW YORK, February 7th, 1866 Lieut. Fred C. Bayer Dear Sir: A large number of competitors for LEFT HAND Penmanship having omitted to furnish the Committee with an attest of genuineness of their productions, and the necessity of affording a guaranty of the good faith of the successful parties, for the satisfaction of the rest of the contributors, renders it requisite for competitors to make an affidavit of the facts before a Justice or Commissioner. You will please have this affidavit properly executed, and return it to my address IMMEDIATELY. Please state whether your arm is disabled or amputated. If disabled you must declare that you do not and cannot use your arm for writing. Yours respectfully, Wm Oland Bourne, Clerk of the Committee Personally appeared before me, Frederick C. Bayer who being duly sworn, deposes and says that enlisted in the service of the United States on the eighth day of August 1861, and was a member of Company G, Forty Ninth Regiment, New York Voluntary Infantry; that he was wounded in the service of the United States, on the thirteenth day of December 1862, at Fredericksburgh Va, and that his right arm, in consequence of said wound, is amputated below the elbow. He further deposes and says that he has learned to write with his left hand since the date of said wound, and that he did not write with his left hand previous to that time, and the specimen of writing subscribed and presented by him to the Committee of Award for distribution of premiums to soldiers and sailors who had lost their right hand, or the use thereof, during the late war, was written by him with his left hand, and that the contents thereof are true to the best of his. knowledge and belief. Fred C Bayer Sworn before me this 13th day of March 1866 J Romaine Brown Notary Public City of N.Y. State of New York, Commissary General's Department, New York, March 14 1866 Wm. Oland Bourne Esq My dear Sir. I received the blank for the enclosed affidavit yesterday. I have not time to go down to your office to day. but hope to be able to do so soon. Very Respectfully Yours [??] Fred C. Barger Westfield, N. Y. December 25. 1865 William Oland Bourne Editor "Soldier's Friend" Dear Sir, I received from a friend a copy of your paper containing your very generous inducement for us left-handed Soldiers to write, and so I think it would be very ungrateful in us not to try. I take pleasure in forwarding my effort to do well. Regarding my military history (which you require) I will say. I enlisted August 8th 1861 in Company "G" 49th Regiment N. Y. Volunteer Infantry. I was mustered into the U. S. service on the 30th of August, as a private in the same company, but was soon after promoted to 3d Sergeant. We left our Rendezvous at Fort Porter, Buffalo, N. Y. Sept. 16th 1861, received our arms and accoutrements at New York City, passed through Washington, and the last of September found us at the front doing Picket duty on the Potomac. We were assigned to the 3d Brigade of "Baldy" Smith's Division, afterwards known as the 3d Brigade 2d Div. 6th Army Corps, Army of the Potomac. 2. No. 81. We passed the winter quietly with an occasional reconnaissance and foraging expedition to break the monotony of our camp life; took a prominent part in the masterly advance upon the wooden guns and unprotected earthworks of Manassas and upon Sunday, the 24th of March embarked at Alexandria on the transport "T. V. Arrowsmith" for Richmond via Fortress Monroe and the Peninsula. (at which place we did not arrive at the appointed time.)- We participated in most of the Battles of the memorable Peninsula Campaigns. (during which I exchanged my musket and chevrons for the sword and straps of a 2d Lieutenant.) and marching from Harrison's Landing to Fortress Monroe, we embarked on the "Vanderbilt" and arrived at Alexandria again, on the 24th. Assisting in covering Pope's retreat at Bull Run we returned to Alexandria on the 4th of September. I had at this time been promoted to 1st Lieutenant and on account of the sickness of my Captain was in command of my company. (being at this time 19 years of age.) I commanded the company during the Maryland campaign at Crampton's Gap, South Mountain, and Antietam. We went into camp at Hagerstown, Md. and remained there until Oct. 29th, when we broke camp, and started again for "Sacred Soil", passing through Williamsport, Bakersville, Berkittsville, Boonsboro and Petersville crossing 3. No. 81. the Potomac at Berlin on pontoons (the bridge at that place having been destroyed by the Rebel Cavalry.) passed through Union, White Plains, New Baltimore, Warrenton, and arrived at Aqua Creek, where we went into camp about four miles from Stafford Court House; here we remained until the 4th of December, when we "struck tents" and started for the every-to-be-remembered "Fredericksburg." On the 13th of December our line was ordered to the front (as we were the supporting line on the previous day) and about eight o'clock in the morning I was wounded by a fragment of a 32 pound shell in the right hand and wrist rendering amputation necessary. On the 7th of May, while under medical treatment at Washington I was ordered to report for duty to Col. Robert Nugent. A. A. P. M. General Southern Division of New York at New York City. I was appointed on his staff as Inspector and when he was relieved by Brig. Genl. Wm. Hays remained in the same position under him until May 11th 1864, when I was discharged by order of the Secretary of War, on account of wounds received in action. Since my return home I have been obliged to undergo another amputation on account of a poor operation on the field, losing 4 No. 81. about four inches more of the arm. I hope now to be able to get an artificial hand. Thanking you in behalf of the left-handed "Soldiers for the Union" for your kind interest in our welfare I have the honor to subscribe myself Your obedient Servant Fred. C. Barger Late of Co "G" 49th Regt. N. Y. Vols. Series I 82 Sep 26th 1865 Dear Sir. The war is over. The object for which we have been so long fighting for is at last accomplished and our brothers soldiers is at their homes or returning to them those who have not fallen in defense of their country. I was a member of the 157th Reg. Private of Co. C. New York Vol was enrolled on the 11th day of Aug 1862 was discharged the 13th day of April 1864. I was in two General battles. The battle of Ch?, and the battle of Gettysburg the last mentioned was where I lost my right arm I was wounded on the first day of July 1963, through the elbow joint amputation took place July 2nd 1863. Staid in Hospital. 5. months at Washington got a furl? for 30. days and came home at the expiration of that returned to Hospital in ?. There staying about 5 months longer got my discharge and returned home to enjoy the blessings of a free country. Buell ? Cincinnatins ? Co New York Company C 157th Regt N. Y. Vol No 82 Sept 30 65 Sabbath Mornings Dec. 18th, 1865 All within adn all without me Feels a melancholy thrill, And the silence hangs about me Ah: how still; Chill December winds are wailing Through the sombre forest trees; Showers of brilliant leaves come sailing Over the breeze; All he earth seems pure and saintly Wrapped in its first snowy shroud, And the sunshine struggles faintly Through the cloud. Hark; the solemn bell is knelling, Calling to he house of prayer, And the rich, deep tones are swelling Orr the air. Yet, alone, I sit and ponder On this holy Sabbath Day: And my thoughts are prone to wander Far away. Mid the quiet haunts of childhood Where the shaded Brooklets flow- Flowers I gather from the wildwood As I go. Hand in hand through field and bower Loving brothers with me roam Till the gathering twilight hour Calls us home. And I eye beside our pillow Now I hear a mother's prayer For the birdlings of her home-nest Sleeping there. But my ???? thoughts are straying Far too much mid scenes of yore. Memory's shadows will be playing Round my door. Buell Roripaugh Cincinnatus leasthand I send this as a Specimen of my left hand writing Buell Roripaugh Cincinnatus Cortland leo New York State Series I 83 Sep 26th 1865 Benton Barricks St Louis Mo Mr Wm Oland Dear Sir I Was Wounded in the Battle of Belmonth on the 7 day of November in 1861 just before they made a charge into the Camp I have been [in] a Private in Company H 30 Regt Illinois Vols This is the onlay Battle that I was in Your [?] Friend Henry W Myers My post office address is Benton Barricks St Louis Mo September 26the 1865 From Donelson to Vicksburge Operation in Kentucky Tennessee And [?] [?] After the [C?tion] of Asheille "Asheville" Albert Sideny Johnston army had fall on back to Murfreesborough This position covered the approach into East Tennessee The Federal [plain?] of the [Ca?] [?] clearly did not [Contemplate?] an advance in that direction for although such an advance would afford relief to many suffering Unionists still for that reason alone it was not worth while to forego certain [?] military Advantages connected with a campaign pushed directly southward toward Corinth The principal of these advantages was the celerity of movement which was possible in an advance up the Tennessee River and there was added to this the greater facility of obtaining supplies An attempt was made by the Confederates to anticipate this advance by the fortification of Pittsburh Landing a few miles from the southern border of Tennessee This attempt was frustrated by the prompt action of two of Footes gunboats Securing that point as a base of operations for General Grants column which advanced about the middle of March This column consisted of [?] divisions under smith Maclelan and Wallace [Sherman?] and [?] The two latter made up chiefly of Ohio troops had been added since the capture of Donelson it took eighty two transports to convey this army with its material of [?] [Sannah?] a few miels "miles" below Pittsburge was made the grand depot for supplies which were many [?] No 83 Sept 30/6[?] 1865 Sept 25 1st Series 84 Samuel Hamilton Fredericksburg, Dec 13, 1862 Editor of Soldiers Friend As you have requested all Soldiers who have lost theire right hand in battle and since learned to write with theire left to send you a specimen of theire penmanship I take pleasure in doing so you have very kindly given us the privalege to select out own subject. it Strikes my mind that no subject would be more appropriate then that of the rebe- lion or at least a list of the battles which I was engaged in I was a private in Company F 10th Regiment Pennsylvania Reserve Corps I enlisted in May 1861 for the term of three years I was discharged April 27th 1863 My first engagement was the seven days fight in front of Richmond which commenced on the 26th of June 1862- I am happy to say that the hand of profidence guided me safely through these hard fought battles my next engagement was at Fredricksburg Virginia which occurred on the 13th of December 1862 at which time and place I received two wounds the first ball entered the tip of my left shoulder and lodged in my right shoulder blade the other passed through my right arm which caused immediate amputation I was taken prisinor and my Sergical aid came from the Rebels. my pen quivers when I reflect back to the battlefield where I was called to make a sacrifice that this world can never replace not merely for the sacrifice which I made but for the brave commorades that fill all around me to rise no more. I thank God that I have lived to see and know that the sacrifice which I made- was not made in vane- Samuel Hamilton Black Hawk Beaver County Pennsylvania September 25th 1863 No 84 Sept 30 65 Series I 85 Duties of an American Teacher Original Solomon says "Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it," and it is equally true that if a child be trained in an improper way it will be difficult to win him from it. The not ural desires of the human heart being evil, it becomes less probable that one will be won in the latter than in the former case. The characteristics of the man are clearly defined in the boy of from eight to sixteen during which period he should be kept in school much of the time, in the school-room, frequently, nearly the entire character is formed. The teacher should be, and every good teacher is, the ? of manhood to his pupils. His principals and examples are frequently regarded more by his pupils than those of the parent. The very name, "teacher," implies, not more than parent should, but in many instanes more than parent does for it presupposes a special qualification and adaptation to lead the minds of the young into the paths of science and truth and educate them to an independent and consecutive method of thought and reasoning. The development of minds thus produced places a power at the command of its possesor, which may be wielded for good or for evil at the option of the individual and the developments of the past show that it will be wielded in the direction indicated by early impressions very many of which are received in the school-room. The developments of the past four years of carnage and blood shed have proven, beyond the possibility of a reasonable disputation, that those who are and have been traitors to our government have been made such either by ignorance or by prejudice, and a majority of the supporters of treason both North and South can give no better reason for the principles to which they hold than that they were those of their fathers or the leaders in whom they put entire confidence. They have been made the willing dupes of designing men who were seeking self aggrandizement. Many of them have freely spilt their blood for the support of those who sought the destruction of of their only safeguard. Like the wild inebriate they have sought to wreak vengeance on their most substantial friends. It is to be hoped that the little mounds which dot the plains from Missouri and Washington to the Gulf, and from Texas to the sea, will be an everlasting warning to any who may hereafter contemplate treason, while the maimed and crippled ones, with the widows and orphans, speak with living tongues of the crimes of Copperheads and open Rebels until the father of such reptiles calls the remnant of his shattered host to his own ? home. Since the institutions of our government which have been made doubly dear to every true American, by the seal of blood and suffering, are fast passing into the hands of the rising generation, it is important that those having charge of the plastic minds of childhood and youth should be duly impressed with the necessity of instilling into them right principles and of teaching them to cherish a deep respect for the principles so ? typified by the blinding of colors in our glorious Banner. If all were actuated by those principles there would be no chance for foul treason to make inroads upon our free institutions. It is not only necessary in order to fit one for faithful and intelligent citizenship that he be taught to read, spell, write and cipher, but he should also be instructed in the principles of free constitutional government and the relations which exist between the government and each individual member thereof and the duties growing out of such relations. By this we would not sanction the cultivation of selfish party spirit but rather the cultivation of an intelligent independent spirit of patriotism. Let the people take an interest in those who are appointed to lead their little ones up the "Rugged Hill" and be sure that they are true to the good old Flag of our common Country; for we might as reasonably expect to gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles as to expect to rear patriots by placing plastic minds under the tuition of disloyal teachers. O let him then whoe'er he be, That hath the charge of youth, In this the land of noble free Teach liberty and truth. Let him in words be firm, discreet. In actions always true, And teach respect (for it is ?) For the Red, the White, the Blue. The principles by these set forth In right proportions blunt, Upheld by both the young and old From North or South though sent, Will make us great and noble too, The nation of all nations, With love for God and mankind too In all of our relations. J. S. Bailey Co. "A" 3d Regiment Iowa Infantry I was enlisted by Captain R. G. Herron of Dubuque Iowa on the 22d day of May 1861. and sworn into the U. S. service at ? on the 10th day of June 1861. by Lieut. Alex. Chamber U. S. A. I took part in the battle of Blue Mills Landing Mo. Sept 17th 1861. the battle of Shiloh April 6th & 7th 1862. the battle of Mattamoras or Hatchin? Oct 5th 1862. the siege of Vicksburg from May 24th to July 4th 1863. and Gen. Lanman's charge on the works of the enemy at Jackson Miss on the 12th day of July 1863. when I received a wound from the enemies guns which caused the amputation of my right fore arm. I was then under command of Captain D. J. O'Neill of Dubuque Iowa. I was discharged at St. Louis on the 5th day of Oct. 1863. and am now attending school at Iowa City Iowa. Yours truly J. S. Bailey No 85 Sept 30 65 1st Series 1865 Sept 26 86 G. R. Lawley Sept. 28, 1864 Prospect Oneida, County New York September 26th 1865 Gentlemen. I enlisted into the service of the United States on the 23rd day of July 1862. Was mustered into Company F. of the 117th Regiment New York State Volunteers at Rome Oneida County New York on the 20th day of Aug. 1862 and on the 22nd day of Aug. started for the Seat of war. Was engaged in the defense of Suffolk. while beseiged by the Rebel General Longstreet from April 15th until May 13th 1863. We were in the Peninsula raid under General Dix and engaged at [?Hanover?] Court house July 4th 1863. Was in the siege of Charleston from Aug 1st 1863 until April 15th 1864. Was with the Butter Expedition against Richmond and engaged at Swift Creek May 9th Proctor Creek May 13th and Drurys Bluff May 16th. Was at Cold Harbor under General Baldy Smith and engaged June 3rd and 4th and under fire until June 13th. Was at the storming of Petersburg Heights from June 15th. Was in the seige og Petrsburg from June 25th until July 21st. Was engaged at the Burnside mine July 30th. Was engaged at Bermuda Front Aug 25th. Was in the seige of Petersburg from August 31st until Sept 28th. Was in the advance on Richmond from Deep Bottom and assaulted the Rebel Fort Gilmer Sept 29th where I was wounded. I was struck with a shell in my right hand carrying away part of my wrist and breaking my arm in two places. I was then taken to the Hampton Hospital. On the 7th day of October was transfered to Grants [?] S. General Hospital. Willots Point New York Harbor and on the 30th day of September 1864 I received my discharge. I wrote with my left hand for the first time in June 1865. Sergt George R Farley. Co F. 117th Regiment N.Y.S.V. Post Office Address George R Farley Prospect Oneida Co. New York No 86 Sept 30 1865 Series I 87 23, 1865 Sept Coloma, Berrien Co, Wm. Bourne Esq Dear Sir I take the liberty of stating that I have been under the medical treatment for sometime, & that in consequence, I have made but a poor effort even to please Myself. respectfully Yours Joshua L. McKean Isle of Wight This Island is situated opposite the coast of Hampshire, from which it is saparated by a channel, varying in breadth from two to seven miles; its is considered as part of the county of Southhampton, and is within the diocese of Winchester. Its greatest length, extending from east to west, measures nearly twenty-three miles, its breadth from north to south about thirteen. The air is in general healthy, particularly the southern parts; the soil is various, but, so great is its fertility, it was many years ago computed that more wheat was grown here in one year than could be consumed by the inhabitants in eight; And it is supposed that its present produce, under the great improvements of agriculture and the additional quantity of land lately brought into tillage, has more than kept pace with the increase of population. A range of hills, which affords fine pasture for sheep, extends from east to west, through the middle of the Island. The interior parts of the Island, as well as its extremities, afford a great number of beautiful and picturesque prospects, not only in the pastoral, but also in great and romantic style. Of these beauties, the people of the Island have availed themselves, as well in the choice of situation of their houses, as in their other improvements. Domestic fowls and poultry are bred here in great numbers; the outward bound Ships and vessels at Spithead, the Mother banks, and coves, commonly furnishing themselves from this Island. Such is the purity of the air, the fertility of the soil, and the beauty and variety of the landscapes of this Island, that it has been called the garden of England; it has some very fine country seats, and it is often visited by parties of pleasure on account of its delightful scenes. The Island is devided into thirty parishes: And, according to a very accurate calculation made in the year 1777, the inhabitants then amounted to eighteen thousand and twentyfour, exclusive of the troops quartered there. Most of the farm houses are built of stone and even the cottages appear neat and comfortable having each its little garden. The town of Newport stands nearly in the centre of the Island of which it may be considered as the Capital. The river Medina empties into the channel at Cowes Harbour, distant about five miles, and being navigable up to the quay renders it commodious for trade. The three principal streets of Newport extend from east to west, and are crossed at right angles by three others, all of which are clean and well paved. Carisbrooke castle in the Isle of Wight has been rendered remarkable by the confinement of King Charles I, who, taking refuge here, was detained a prisoner from November 1647, to September 1648. after the execution of the King, this castle was converted into a place of confinement for his children, and his daughter, the princess Elizabeth, died in it. There are several other forts in this Island, which were all erected about the 36th year of the reign of Henry VII. when many other forts and blockhouses were built in different parts of the coast of England. I enlisted on the sixth of Septm. 1861, in the 12th Regt. of Mich. Vol. I belonged [*I enlisted on the 6, Sept., 1861, in the 12th Mich. Vol. I belonged] to Co. B. was mustered into the United States on nineteenth of Jany. 1862, left the State for the Southwest, on 18th of March our line of March was by the way of St. Louis, Cairo, up the Tennessee River to Pittsburgh landing remained about two weeks on the bank of the above named river previous to the Battle that was fought on the 6 & 7 of April. was wounded in the right shoulder by a musket shot on the first day of the of the Battle about nine OClock am, immediatly after my right forearm was shattered by a grapeshot, it being amputated thirty hours afterward in the rebel camp by our own surgeons who were also prisoners, it was five months before my wounds were healed. Joshua L. McKean No 89 Sept 30 65 1865, Dec 27 series 1 89 C.R. Post (1) Original Editor of The Soldiers Friend Sir, Having seen a notice in your valuable paper of a premium - for the best specimens of left-hand penmanship and having lost my right arm in the service of my county, I have determined to compete. I have drawn up a rough sketch of my experience while in the service, a description of the different battles I was engaged in, several - incidents &c. I was born in Westbrook Conn, September 28th 1842, and have resided with my parents in New York City during the last sixteen years. When the Rebellion broke out, and - and shortly after the second call for volunteers - was made, I enlisted (September 5th 1862.) as a private in company F of the One Hundred and Seventy-third New York Volunteers. The regiment was raised in Brooklyn and was then commanded by Colonel Charles B. Morton. (2) We were encamped on Rikers Island while recruiting. When we had our complement of men, and had been on the Island about six weeks, rations were dealt out to us, and we were put - aboard of two small steamers. I took on more look (perhaps the last, I then thought) at the old barracks where we had spent so many lonely days. At last we were off amid the weeping of mothers, the crying of wives and children, the sobs of - sweethearts, and the waving of handkerchiefs. As we steamed down the East River many were the anxious gazes and wishful looks cast at the - familiar houses and places along the route. We were next put aboard of the large propellor "Continental" then anchored opposite the Battery - where we remained four or five days. Finally we got up steam and started, and many were the conjectures as to our destination. After a very rough voyage of fifteen days we anchored off of the city of New Orleans. Next morning we started up the Mississippi - (3) river and nearly everybody aboard felt and spoke of the difference in the climate. it was so warm and mild. On our way up the river we saw beautiful orange trees loaded with oranges, and some of the men on shore tried to throw some of them on board, but were not quite successful, for the oranges would just reach the side of the vessel and drop into the water, which was very agravating to us. At last we reached Baton Rouge, and were immediately put ashore. I for one, was glad to get once more on terra firma. After forming we marched up through the city with our colors flying. How beautiful those colors looked then. How faded and torn they are now! We pitched our camp just outside of the city. The citizens did not greet us kindly, but rather the reverse. What few stores were open in the place, charged enormous prices for anything they knew we wanted and would have, such as butter, cheese, tobacco, fruit, pies, &c (4) We were allowed the privilege of going to church every Sunday morning, and after a while we had religious services in our own camp by the chaplain of my own regiment, which I usually attended. During the week-days four hours a day were devoted to drilling us, and very awkward work we made of it at first, for we did not receive our arms until we reached Baton Rouge. Four were in my tent, and I generally done the cooking, when we had anything to cook, but seldom could we forage, for General Banks - in command of the Department - issued an order prohibiting all foraging. After remaining in Baton Rouge about two months we struck tents and prepared for a long campaign. After marching up through the Teche country we found the rebels strongly intrenched at a place called Camp Bisland, in which engagement General (now U. S. Senator) Halbert E Paine commanded our brigade. (5) Pushing forward to within about one hundred and twenty yards of the rebel works under a heavy fire, we laid down in a narrow ditch. Our artillery coming up in the mean time and getting into position opened on them, but the rebels maintained a stubborn silence until we got our heavier artillery to bear on them. They then answered with shot and shell. I recollect distinctly the the feeling I then had. It was a feeling of fear. I trembled all over during the first days battle, but the second day, I did not mind it so much. This battle commenced on the 12th of April 1863. In the afternoon we were ordered to charge the works, but the order was immediately countermanded, and we fell back into our former position. Night coming on we posted a heavy picket. Next morning - the 13th - at about seven Oclock, fire was opened on the enemy, but with the same result as before, until our firing became pretty (6) brisk. They then replied almost shot for shot, and in this way, with a few short intervals, the firing was kept up nearly all day. At night the pickets exchanged shots every little while. On the morning of the 14th we found the place evacuated, thin pickets remaining until the very last. After we had marched inside of the works, we saw the dead men and horses strewn all around, also a number of dismounted cannon. The loss in my regiment amounted to only thirty. It was remarkably small owing to our being somewhat sheltered, and the rebels firing too high. From here we followed the rebels, marching sometimes thirty miles a day. Starting in the morning at five, and camping at eight at night, until we reached the suburbs of Port Hudson (May 27th, 1863) in which I also took part. We drove them through the woods slowly, the rebels keeping themselves sheltered behind trees and logs. They fired with more accuracy and effect than in the previous battle. (7) In the afternoon my regiment was ordered to support a battery that were posted somewhat in the advance. Here we could plainly see the rebels slowly falling back, until they were compelled to get inside of their fortification. We immediately laid siege to the place throwing up breastworks of cotton, and digging intrenchments, (mostly at night.) We placed two logs on top of the breastwork - one on top of the other - with places cut into them shaped like a diamond when put together, thus forming a very convenient, as well as safe, port-hole to shoot through. We remained here until the 14th of June 1863 (Sunday morning) just before daybreak, when a grand charge was made. Moving forward with as little noise as possible we reached within twenty yards of the works, when they opened on us. Our artillery in the rear then belched forth, but fired pretty high to avoid us. Our progress was necessarily quite slow, crawling (8) on our hands and knees [up] through the ravines up to the works, a number reaching the top of the parapet, but only to be shot down, for the moment any of our men showed their heads above the top of the work, they would drop like chunks of lead. Corporal Robertson of my company got on the top of the breastwork with his hands and knees and dug a place in the top of the work to shelter him. He was about to get up- raising his head to look inside, when several of us remonstrated with him about being so indiscreet, but he did not heed us. Only a few seconds afterwards a bullet struck him over the left eye, coming out at the back of his head, killing him instantly. We remained in the ditch until evening and then retired, but not until the wounded were taken care of. A flag of truce was raised the next morning to give us an opportunity of burrying our dead. My regiment lost in killed and wounded (9) one hundred and twenty, including several commissioned officers. My company were quite fortunate, six being our total loss. General Halbert E Paine commanding our brigade was severely wounded in the leg, which necessitated its amputation. We all deeply felt the lost of so good and brave an officer. Although he recovered, we had lost him as a commander. He was liked by all of us, and such confidence did we place in him, that I verily believe any of us would have followed him up to the mouth of the enemys loaded cannon if necessary. We remained in our intrenchments until the 9th of July 1863, when the fort was formally surrendered and taken possession of. Shortly after we had camped inside ten days rations of flour were issued to us. Then came my first real experience in using it. I bought some baking soda from the sutler which helped me considerably. I could then make buscuit (10) very well. But my first efforts in this direction did not end well - the buscuit were very heavy and nearly as hard as very hard, "hard tack". I next participated in the Skirmishes at Vermillion La. November 11th 1863. We were under arms from daylight until eight Oclock in the morning, when we were ordered out of camp, leaving our shelter tents standing. The rebels had attacked our outposts, and our cavalry were driving them back, while we supported them. About twelve Oclock the same day, the rebels retreated. A few cavalrymen were about all our loss amounted to. We then returned to camp and immediately had our coffee and "hard tack", which we enjoyed immensely, for our appetites by this time were pretty keen. The next engagement I was in was the battle of Sabine Cross Roads La, April 8th 1864. The first of the three battles of the ill fated Red River Expedition. It was fought in the afternoon about four Oclock. The Thirteenth Corps were (11) about seven miles in advance of us, when they were attacked by a large body of rebels. After receiving rations of hard bread we marched forward between a double quick and a walk until we got within two miles of them when the firing becoming more rapid we quickened our pace until we were on a full double quick, reaching the battle ground just in time (for the Thirteenth Corps had about used up all of their ammunition) and filing into line we gave the rebels several good volleys, which had the desired effect: they retired. About midnight we retired also for the rebels had decidedly the advantage in numbers. The Thirteenth Corps suffered a great deal more than the Nineteenth, to which I belonged. The loss of the rebels must have been as great, if not greater, than ours. After marching all night long - almost without a halt - we camped at Pleasant Hill, and after posting a heavy picket, rations of fresh raw beef were given us. We were cooking it when the (12) rebels advanced on us, yelling in their peculiar style. We could not get a good shot at them - owing to a rise in the ground right in front of us. They came on in overwhelming numbers, a battery of ours right in rear of us cutting great gaps in their ranks with grape and cannister. They finally succeeded in breaking our line, and capturing eighteen of my company. Soon after the rebels broke our line I fell back to the next one, which was somewhat sheltered by small piles of rails. The rebels came on until they reached this line when they received a terrific volley, which staggered them; at the same time getting orders to charge, we did so and were successful in driving them and taking a number prisoners. The number of our killed and wounded amounted to about one hundred. They were taken care of the same night. We then marched down along the banks of the Red River night and day, sometimes camping only an hour or two. On the 23d of April 1864 (13) we forded the Cane River, the water coming almost up to our cartridge boxes, but we managed to keep our cartridges dry. As soon as we gained the other side and got formed, we marched through the woods until we could see the rebels posted on a bluff. This we afterwards found was called Monets Bluff. Our line was formed along a rail fence. The One Hundred and Twenty-eighth New York were detailed as skirmishers on our left. When they had got some distance in advance of us, a staff officer advanced a short distance in front of us and said, "It is General Birge's orders to charge that bluff", and then unsheathing his sword and waving it over his head, said, "Men follow me." We were instantly in motion, and tearing down the rail fence, went across the field on a double quick, with a yell. On the way I saw quite a number wounded and shot dead. As I neared the foot of the bluff I saw a rebel on the top lying down and aiming at me at the same instant (14) I felt a very slight twinge near my right shoulder but did not know I was shot until I felt my arm powerless and drop to my side, some seconds afterwards. Looking at my arm, I saw a bullet hole through it. I immediately caught up my arm and let me rifle drop, for the bone was entirely severed and the arm hung by the flesh. I walked to the rear, I could not go faster it seemed as though my arm would shake off. I took another look at the rebel as I left and thought, if I could only have the privilege of firing one more shot it would give me a great deal of satisfaction. I did not go back in the same direction that I came. I reached the fence, but could not get over it. I felt weak from the loss of blood. I finally got a soldier to help me, and with his assistance, reached the other side. I walked through the woods until I saw a lieutenant with a squad of men, I told him I had a handkerchief in my pocket and asked him to tie up my arm. He did so, tying it just above where I was wounded, thus (15) stopping a great deal of the blood. I then sat down by a tree (I could stand no longer) and shortly after [I] was taken on a stretcher to the surgeons, where I remained two hours. I was then taken to a little cotton gin about a mile off. I laid here until about half past eight - five hours after being wounded - when my arm was amputated about two inches from the shoulder. I was next put into an ambulance, in which I rode for two days. About ninety miles above Alexandria I was transferred to a hospital ship. I finally reached Alexandria La. where I remained a week in the hospital. From here I was sent to New Orleans. I was quartered in the Barracks Hospital, which is situated about four miles from the city of New Orleans, where I remained two months. After being in the hospital two weeks, I wrote a letter home to my parents and every word I wrote made me sweat. I abreviated the letter as much as possible, but it was read quite easily. During the time I was in the hospital, I wrote no less than ten letters, as much to (16) see how I could write as anything else. I was discharged from the Barracks Hospital June 1864 and went to the "Soldiers Home" in New Orleans where I was very kindly treated. I was paid in full and Mr. Seaton the pension agent, made out my pension papers, which I received from Washington, two months after coming home. I took passage on the transport United States and arrived in New York July 5th 1864. Before leaving New Orleans, I bought some lemons and sugar and a corporal-belonging to a Maine regiment who was shot in the same battle that I was, who also lost his right arm close up to the shoulder, and with whom I became acquainted while in hospital, and who was discharged and put aboard of the same vessel with me - helped me make lemonade. He held the lemon, while I cut it up, and in this way we got along very well. He supplied my right arm when I wanted to do anything, and I done the same for him. About eight months after coming home, I determined to seek employment and earn my own living. Accordingly I collected recommendations from persons (14) who were well acquainted with me. I also applied to my colonel for one. In reply, he sent me an excellent letter, enumerating the battles I was in, and stating how I conducted myself while serving under his command. I went to Major F. E. Prime, Corps. of Engineers, and applied for a situation. He was very kind to me, and gave me the position of Clerk of the Works, at the New Battery at Fort Hamilton, which I still hold. I have been employed here during the last nine months. When I first came here I experienced a little difficulty in regard to my writing, duties, &c. but through the kindness of the Superintendent-Mr. Bryson-I overcome it all, and can now get along very well. I did not commence practicing with my left hand until about five months after coming home. It is fourteen months since I have tried to write. I was always right handed. I never wrote with my left until after I lost my arm. I can write either way - the natural slope or backhanded, but find the latter the handiest. When not employed by the Government (18) I am allowed eight dollars a month pension. It was stopped as soon as I obtained this situation. Very Respectfully Yours Charles R. Post. Fort Hamilton December 27th 1865. (19) N. B. I have lately practiced writing in this style and this is a specimen. The other though, I consider a fair specimen of my usual style of writing. The different engagements I participated in are as follows: Battle of Camp Bisland, April 12th & 13th/63 Siege of Port Hudson, May 27th to July 9th/63 Skirmishes of Vermillion, November 11th/63 Battle of Sabine Cross Roads, April 8th/64 Battle of Pleasant Hill, April 9th/64 Battle of Monets Bluff, April 23d/64 Fort Hamilton Dec. 28th/65 Charles R. Post Series T 90 Head Quarters 122 Regt. U.S. C Infantry Corpus Christi Texas July 22nd 1865 Dear Sir I enclose herewith, and forward you accordingly to the method you have prescribed in your notice (which I accidentally came across in a paper which had strayed into this out-of-the-way region where my command is now stationed, for the best "Left hand" penmanship. I cannot effect to compete with other writers who have had better advantages then I . I am at this time quite unwell; but will send this, let it be worth what it may. I could not do justice to the subject I have selected under circumstances I have mentioned above. I first entered The service on the 17th day of April 1861 in the 8th Reg of Ohio Vol Militia in June this Regt became a three years Required and was ordered to Virginia. On the 26th day of Novem 1861 I took part in the first battle of Romeny where our armes were defeated. here I was severely wounded. On the 11th day Jany 1862" The Turn was taken by our forces. Our next engagement was at Blues Gap Va Feby 14th 1862. Our next engagement took place at Blooming Gap Va Feby 29th 1862. Another engagement took place at Williamsburg Va March 10th 1862. On the 22nd day of March 1862 The union forces commanded by Gen Shields were attacked by the Rebel General Stonewall Jackson. The battle continued until the evening of the 23" [j]ust when the enemy were defeated. I was dangerously wounded through the right hand causing a total loss of the right arm. I was subsequently Discharged The service,but soon after reenlisted in the Veteran Reverse Corps. and continued in the capacity of a Clerk in the office of The A.A. Res War General for Ohio, until I was appointed an Officer in the above named Regiment. Accompanying This I will append a certificate from my Colonel which will show That I am in the condition I have represented. I am Sir Very Respectfully Your Obt Servt Gilbert D Bowkin 1st Lieut Co B 122 U.S. C Inf- Post Office Address Fitchville Huron Co Ohio Hd Qrs 122" U.S. C Infty Corpus Christi Texas Jul 22" 1865 I certify that 1" Lieut Hubert D. Bowker is an officer in this Regiment, and that he has been wounded in action, and has lost the use of his right arm, which incapacitates him from writing with that hand. J Hams Davidson Col Cmdg 122" U.S.C. [I] General Officers It used to be a jest during the Mexican War that the Mexicans had almost as many Generals as Privates in their Army. And we seem fast approaching that point in our organization. Take up an army register (if a recent one had been published. The effect would be more startling), and look over our list of General Officers. It is astonishing how many there are, and still more astonishing how many have been tried, found wanting, and laid away on a shelf to make political speeches, or command Posts which might be better commanded by Captains, at a much less expense to the Government. One hundred and fifty Brigadiers, and seventy Major Generals is an ample allowance for half a million of men. We have something like three hundred of the former, and one hundred of the latter, whilst many of the Brigadier Generals have Major Generals' commands in the field, and our Brigades are commanded by Colonels, Lieut Colonels, and Majors. Many of the general officers now in service are notoriously incompetent, others are unwilling to perform the duties assigned them in active service, and have influence enough to obtain comfortable, easy places out of the field, which could be quite as well filled, perhaps in many cases much better, by Officers of inferior rank, who have been disabled while doing their duty in front of an enemy. These surplus General's should be mustered out of the service, not only to rid the service of unworthy numbers, but to enable the authorities to reward those who have shown themselves capable and willing to perform the duties of Soldiers in the field: The number of General Officers will thus be considerable reduced; The expenses of the war lessened, and the Government be enabled to reward many meritorious officers who are now necessarily neglected, and are performing the duty without either the pay or rank. To determine those who should be mustered out, a Board of competent general officers should be convened in each army, whose duty it should be to examine and report upon the servises, claims, and capabilities of General's serving with, or formaly on duty with each army, with the recommendation in each case. These reports should be submitted to a general bound with orders to continue the investigation, and report to the Secretary of War, such as should (in the opinion of such board), be mustered out of the service. If this course could or would have been adopted or pursued some months ago, and a system of harmony among General Officers been propagated throughout the entire army doubtless the the Confederacy would have fallen at a much earlier date than it did. So much jealousy ??? has existed among that class of our military men could have no other effect than that of serving to deter grand military movement,, which would otherwise have been a complete success to our arms. Numberless battles have been failures through incompetency and serves other means which could have been in many cases terminated successfully and to the credit and glory of the Soldiers. ### No 90 Sept 30 65 Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.