[Front Cover]

Fords Theatre

PLAN OF THE BOX OCCUPIED BY PRESIDENT LINCOLN AT FORD'S THEATRE, April 14, 1865 [Diagram with Key">

January 1, 1864

Washington January 1st 1864

This has been a pleasant day and people have I think enjoyed themselves much better in making their “calls” than they did last year and especialy the year before. Every one seems to feel in good spirits and very hopeful in regard to the future. Mr Lincoln looks brighter and less “woebegone” than usual. Mr Seward is a[s] gracious and confident of the early termination of the War as ever. He receives his guests with more formality than any one else. His gentleman Usher anouncing the name of the visitor in a loud voice at the door of the receiving room. At the Presidents, the Gentleman who introduces stands directly opposite the President with only room for a couple to pass betwen them. Mrs Lincolns Gentleman stands beside her and does the introducing. I made fifteen or twenty “calls” and got to my lodgings early in the evening. The whole City seemed to be alive and the ladies all “at Home.”

January 1864

February 9, 1864

February 9th 1864 Monday

Julia and myself took the Govt Steam Tug “Lookout” at 3 o'clock P.M. on Saturday and went down to Rosiers Bluff or to “Fort Foot” three miles below Alexandria on the Maryland side on a visit to Maj E. P. Taft who is at present in command. We returned last evening. While there we enjoyed ourselves much. We visited Mt Vernon with a select company and in a special steamer which is employed for the Fort. The Company consisted of Maj Taft & Lady, Capt Lyon & Lady, Surgeon Sabin & Lady, Capt & Lady, Surgeon Chamberlin of the 9th, Capt Winchester, Commissary of the 9th at Fort Foot, Lieut Wellington, and ourselves. Capt Roeselle at the Fort was quite attentive to Julia. He was officer of the day and did not go on the trip. Surge[o]n Chamberlin did the polite to her on the trip.

February 18, 1864

February 18th 1864 (Thursday)

This is the coldest weather that I have ever seen in Washington, that is for Six years. The Mercury was below zero this morning. The River is again frozen over, but there is no snow on the ground and the streets look quite lonesome. A cold cutting wind banishes everybody but those who must go.

February 22, 1864

Monday 22nd

No particular notice was taken of the birth day of Washington in this City. The public offices were not closed but the flags were hung from numerous dwellings and offices. Julia and myself had intended to go down to Fort Foot today but the River is still too full of ice to make it pleasant and we decided not to go at present. The great Fair opened this evening for the benefit of the soldiers. Capt Roeselle of the 9th Artillery went with Julia, presented her with an elegant Boquet before starting.

February 26, 1864

Feb 26th 1864

As the season advances and Spring approaches the news becomes more interesting. The Armies begin to move and important events are expected to happen soon, are in fact happening at the present time. Genl Sherman has struck out from Vicksburgh with about 30,000 men and has advanced far into the interior taking Jackson the Capitol of Miss and other towns in his course. It is supposed that Mobile is his destination. Genl Grant is moveing South from Chattanooga and the papers tonight say that he is at Dalton Georgia. The Army of the Potomac stretches from near Fairfax Courthouse to Culpepper some Thirty Miles and is now fast being reinforced. Recruits are now arriving rapidly and more than fifteen thousand soldiers have crossed the long Bridge into Virginia this week. Troops are crowding the cars & marching and again we hear “the drums beat at dead of night.”

February 27, 1864

Saturday February 27th 1864

The day has been beautiful as could be wished and the streets have swarmed with ladies. The country is getting considerably excited upon the question of the “succession” to the Presidency. Mr Lincoln seems to have the “inside tract,” but he will find a good deal of opposition in the Republican party. A Strong section are talking of bringing out Mr S. P. Chase, Sec'y of the Treasury. He has managed the finances of the Country with consumate ability and is very popular. If he succeeds in giving to the Country a Uniform Currency by the banishment of State Bank bills He will deserve the everlasting gratitude of the people. There is a report tonight that our forces in Florida have been repulsed with heavy loss and have fallen back to Jacksonville. No particular news from other sections of the army.

March 10, 1864

March 10th 1864

The Military affairs of the Nation has not been “all a success” for the past two or three weeks. Our troops were repulsed in Florida with a loss of some 1200 men killed, wounded, and prisoners. They are now at Jacksonville and have been re-inforced, and will be able to stay there. Genl Sherman has returned to Vicksburgh from his great “raid” into the heart of Miss. He met with no very great losses of men, destroyed a Vast amount of property belonging to the rebels, captured a great number of horses, and brought away (the papers say) 8000 Negroes. Genl Kilpatrick of the Army of the Potomac made a “raid” last week upon Richmond with some four or five thousand Cavalry. He approached within two miles of the City, had a fight but found the rebels too well prepared for him and he passed down the Peninsula to Fortress Monroe. The Rebels seem

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March 10th/64 continued

strong this spring and the indications are that there must be a good deal more desperate fighting before the war closes. The impression is generaly entertained that they have got all their men in the field and are determined to make a desperate effort to regain what they have lost the past year. But their desperation will only prolong the war, in the end they will have to give in. We must have double the number of men in the field but our lines are vastly more extended and we are occupying positions in strong force over thousands of miles of territory. Genl Grant arrived here on Tuesday, he has recently been made a Lieut Genl and is just now the “Lion of the day.” I hope he will return to the West soon or before he becomes paralyzed by breathing the atmosphere of the Potomac. Congress does not seem to be doing much and the political cauldron does not boil much yet.

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10th March 64 continued

Julia and myself are still occupying rooms at Mr Bartle[tt]s 379 11th Betn K & L. I intend to go home with her the last of this month. She enjoys it here much and I am not anxious to take her away to what she calls “the dull country” quite yet. In the open spring she will enjoy herself there in planting and tending her flowers which of all occupations is her delight. I took her to “Bradys” last week where she sat for her picture which we shall soon have. The Artist who is to touch them up with his pencil came to see her last evening. He is half Italian and half Irish. I suppose the Italian part is the “Artist,” the other portion is probably of grosser material as his habits indicate sometimes. Julia takes her meals here altogether. I dine as formerly at Doct Munsons. At the Land office I am Examiner (with two other Gentlemen, Rev Mr Holmead and Martin Buel) of Patent Deeds. All the Deeds issued by the Govt pass through my hands.

March 20, 1864

Washington D.C. March 20th/64

Not much of importance has transpired in regard to the War since my last date. Genl Grant has been here (He is now Lieut Genl) and has gone back to Tennessee, but soon returns and takes command of the Army of the Potomac in person. Having command at the same time of all the Armies of the U.S. The spring campaigns will open before many weeks and desperate fighting is expected. More desperate probably than any Battles we have yet seen for the Rebels are staking their last chances and are desperate. Our Armies are strong and are better officered than ever before as there has been a great “weeding out” going on during the past year of good for nothing “Shoulder Straps.” The coming next six months must be decisive of the war or I am much mistaken. It is without doubt

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assuming a more relentless and cruel character as it progresses, on both sides, but the rebel “papers” are getting furious and call loudly for vengeance even on the prisoners in their hands, but as we hold many more of theirs than they do of ours they will have to take it out in raving. The rebel leaders are determined to prolong the War until after the next Presidential Election at least in the hope that a “Peace Democrat” will be Elected and then they can make better terms, or even be acknowledged Independant. But from present indications their hopes will not be realized. Most of the leading Democrats in the States are “War democrats” and would concede nothing to them until they laid down their arms and submitted to the laws. Mr Lincoln seems to be the favorite candidate of the Republicans, but I should not wonder if there should be a Split in the Party.

March 20, 1864

March 20th 1864

On Friday last Julia and myself went on board the Govt Steamer at 3 o'clock P.M. and were landed at Rosiers Bluff or rather Fort Foot in about an hour after. I remained overnight and returned yesterday, leaving Julia to spend a few days with her Cousins Maj E P Taft and family. There is now about Six hundred men there and the Fort seems to be completed but the guns are not all mounted yet. There is one 400 pounder mounted and a number of 200 pounder Parrots. Lieut Col Seward is now in Com[ma]nd. His Lady came up on the Boat with me and I saw her safely landed and through the Street cars to the Secretarys House on 16th St. On my return I found a letter for Julia from her particular friend Capt McLeod now with the Army of the Cumberland in Tennessee. He is on Genl Garrards Staff.

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I mailed it to her without delay as I presumed She was anxious to hear from him and I was willing she should, and was not disposed to pry into their secrets by opening it. She has shown me his letters before and I doubt not will show me this if I desire her to do so as she is very open and frank with me in regard to him and all others who pay attention to her. Julia is a very discreet girl, very careful of her steps, and of the company she keeps. She will not go on to “the Avenue” alone, or without a Gentleman with her, after 12 o'clock A.M. for shoping or any other purpose. Consequently I always feel quite confident that she is safe whenever I miss her from the house. We shall start for home about the first of next month. I expect her up from the Fort in three or four days but she is enjoying herself riding on horseback and otherwise so much that she may stay a little longer.

March 25, 1864

Washington March 25th/64

Nothing very important has occured in regard to the war since my last date. No movement of the Army of the Potomac has taken place. Some Cavalry “raids” have been made and some skirmishing has been going on. Today an order is published consolidating the Army of the Potomac into three Corps Commanded by Genls Warren, Hancock and Sedgwick. Three fighting Genls. Genl Grant does not take command in person. Genl Mead is to command still. Genl Grant will have his head Qrs (it is said) here in the City. I do not like that. The Army of the Potomac has “swamped” so many Genls that I fear for him. Should that Army be defeated now, it would be ruin to him. In fact I think the political atmosphere of Washington itself will ruin him, but it seems necessary to put forward our “biggest gun” against Lee the Rebel, who has proved himself a

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most consumate General and so far more than a match (as to skill and ability) for any one we have had against him. If Grant can crush the Army of Lee, then the Rebellion seem to be nearly to an End. The trial will “come off” before long. There is thought to be no great difference in the strength of the two armies now facing each other. I hope ours will be largely re-inforced before the “Trial” as everything seems to depend upon our success, at least the length of the War will very much depend upon it. A few crushing blows this spring will do the work, and not only virtualy end the War, but disappoint the slipery and “sympathising” politicians at the North who are prophesying evil things of our army and obstructing the wheels of government in every way in Congress & out of it.

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Washington March 25th/64

Continued

Julia is still at the Fort and I suppose is having a “good time.” I got a line from her the other day informing me that she was learning to ride on horseback and enjoying herself much. We must start for home in about a week, or the family will be much disappointed. We have had the deepest snow of the season the present week, it fell about eight inches but was nearly all gone by night. Today has been quite dreary and wet and tonight the rain is pattering against my window, and the wind is whistling without and driving the big drops in the faces of thousands of Sentinels and men on picket duty. Little do we think while sitting in our comfortable rooms on these cold and stormy nights what the poor soldiers are enduring.

April 27, 1864

Wednesday April 27th 1864, Washington

Since my last date I have been home to L Island and staid 15 days. Julia and myself started the 1st inst. We staid two days in N York City. I returned here on the morning of the 19th. I had a very pleasant time of it at home altho the weather was not so pleasant as the N.E. Wind was blowing nearly all the time. No very great events have occured in reference to the war this month. Both sides are getting ready and preparing for the contest this spring and it is expected that the struggle will be a fearful one. The Army of the Potomac is larger than ever before now under Genl Grant. It is supposed to be from two hundred and fifty to three hundred thousand men. The Rebel Lees army is probably a hundred thousand less. Grant evidently intends to make a sure thing of it. Genl Burnside passed through the City on Monday last

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Washington April 27th 1864

with his Army to join Grant. Burnside has been at Annapolis for the past two months organizing a new army. It numbers about 50,000 men, including about 10,000 Negro troops. Only about one half passed this way of the entire Army, the rest were sent round by water to land at Alexandria V.A. Grants Army is still on the “Rapidan” some sixty miles from Washington. There has been some pretty severe Battles the present month, the first at Fort Pillow, Tenn, where the rebels captured the Fort with the advantage of having greatly superior numbers and mas[sa]cred most of the Garrison after they surrendered. The next fight, or rather important Battle as it was, took place in Louisiana on Red River and lasted two days. The Rebels were defeated the second day. The first day we had the worst of it.

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This was the Army of Genl Banks and it is thought that very good Generalship was not displayed on the first day. Genl A. J Smith retrieved the loss on the second day by driving the rebels with great slaughter. (Gold 185 today). Yesterday we had news of the surrender of Plymouth in N.C. to a greatly superior force of Rebels after four days severe fighting. We lost some 2500 men in that affair. It is reported that many of the prisoners were shot after the surrender. On the whole the spring operations have not been very favorable to us. All is quiet at Charleston S.C. and at Chattanooga and Knoxville. All eyes are turned to Virginia to Grants and Lees armies and active operations are expected to take place every day. Momentuous consequences depend upon the result. If we should be defeated the war will be greatly prolonged, probably for years to come.

May 3, 1864

Washington May 3rd/64

Matters remain in about Status quo as it regards the war. Both sides are concentrating their armies in Virginia. No movement of Genl Grants army has yet taken place. But we are waiting to hear of the Crash every day. It is said that the rebel Genl Lee is drawing all the troops he can to Virginia to meet Grant. I esteem the present crisis a most important one, perhaps the most important that has existed since the war began. If Grant succeeds in crushing Lees army the war will be virtualy ended for I think the rebels have staked nearly all they have on this Campaign. Their men are all in the field. They evidently esteem this as their last chance and they are playing a desperate game. We can carry on the war for any length of time that may be necessary to subdue them.

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The cost of the war is enormous, at least two Millions pr day, that is, it probably takes one Million to pay the legitimate expenses of the Govt (perhaps a little more). The balance is squandered and stolen. Not a very small number of those who have the management of the expenses and the disbursements are knaves and fools. The one have no idea of honesty, the other no idea of economy. But in times of great popular commotion the scum will float on the surface, where the brazen villian and the conceited ass are often found occupying positions of great responsibility. Tomorrow my Brother Newell & wife take Steamer for NY from Alexandria. I am intending to go down there in the morning and see them off. The weather has been quite cool today, too cold to sit without fire in the office or in my room.

May 6, 1864

Friday May 6th 1864

My Brother did not go by Steamer but by RR on the day he intended. I met them at the Landing (foot of 6th St) and Saw them on board of the Cars bound for NY the day before yesterday. It being a broken day with me I concluded to spend the rest of it out of the office. So I rode up to Georgetown on the street cars and walked from there about half a mile to the Col Ellet place now occupied by a Dr Miller and with whom Chas and family (consisting of wife, child, and black Servt) are living. It is a most delightful place there being some forty acres of land mostly lawn covered with trees and shrubbery, green and beautiful. The surrounding Scenery is delightful. The City with the Capitol in full view and everything to make it beautiful and charming to the eye.

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Genl Grants Army has “moved,” he has crossed the Rapidan without opposition and is supposed to be in full march for Richmond. We hear of no fighting so far. Yesterday it was said that Genl Gilmore was at West Point on the York River with a large force and that Genl W. F. Smith was going up the James River on the South side all bound for Richmond, 300,000 men. We hear nothing of the rebel army movements. It would be a fine trick if Genl Lee should come this way and attack Washington while Grants Army and nearly all our forces are Striving to get Richmond. It is understood that the rebel govt is removed from Rich[mon]d (or the different departments) and that the City is almost abandoned already. It is expected that Lee will fall back and defend it.

May 7, 1864

Washington Saturday May 7th/64

We hear today that there has been two days severe fighting Thursday & Friday and the battle was expected to be renewed today. No decisive results so far as heard tonight, but the news as far as it goes (up to last night) is rather favorable to us. Lees Army had been driven three miles. We shall hear more tomorrow. I presume the fighting has been done near the old Battle ground of Chancellorville May 1st 2nd & 3rd of last year. We feel quite confident that this Campaign will be successful and will, if so, virtualy End the War. God grant it may all be so. Our Armies are all in motion. Genl Sherman is moving into the heart of Georgia from Chattanooga and Seigel is moving up the Shanandoah Valley.

May 10, 1864

Tuesday May 10th 1864

These days are eventful days and big with the fate of the thousands who are engaged in hostile array as well as of the would be “Southern Confederacy.” There has been most severe fighting almost every day for the past six days. The rebels fight with a determination and heroism worthy of a better cause. But they fight to little purpose in this campaign. They have not go[t] the men to contend with the Masses which Grant is hurling against them. Still as far as heard from no very decisive advantage has as yet been gained. It is understood that they have been forced back with great slaughter but not scattered or greatly disorganized. Our own wounded now number 15,000 which would give about 4000 killed. Yesterday we had the news that Genl J S Wadsworth of Geneseo was Slain.

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Washington May 10th 64 continued

The death of Genl Wadsworth is a very serious loss. We have few such men in the country. I am told that he exhibited the greatest bravery and heroism on the field and fell at the head of his Division. We have news today that Genl Butler (B F) is close upon Richmond having cut the RRoad betwen there and Petersburgh. It appears now as though Richmond would surely fall. It looks now as tho the “game was up” with the Rebels. But we have been disappointed so often that it is not best to be too sanguine. The next few days will tell the tale. The crisis may already be past and the War near its end. God grant that it may be so. O the blood, the wounds. Twelve thousand poor mutilated fellows (Union soldiers) are now said to be in the City of Fredericksburgh.

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Two or three days ago I rcd a letter from Frank dated Clifton Springs May 5th informing me that he buried his wife on that day. She died the 3d leaving a boy about a week old. F appears to be in great affliction and has lost a kind and loving Companion. I had never seen her but had formed a very good opinion of her and much regret her death on his account. I have rcd letters from home and answered them within the past few days. I can think of nothing that appears so pleasant to me now as my home in S Harbor, the cool shade, the green lawn, and the flowers, a wife and children who are only too ready to anticipate my wants when I am there and estimate me quite high in the Scale of moral worth.

May 11, 1864

Washington May 11th 1864.

We get but little reliable news today from the army, but all the accounts agree in one particular. There has been the most terrible fighting almost every day since it began on Thursday last the 5th Inst. We have lost three good Maj Genls killed. Hayes, Wadsworth & Sedgwick. Hays & Sedgwicks bodies were brought here last evening, embalmed, and were sent North this evening. The 9th Heavy Artillery have been ordered to the field and went across the River yesterday. Maj E. P. Tafts wife and children came up this morning on their way to Lyons. I met them at the Metripolitan Hotel and saw them on board the Cars this evening 7.30 train. Mis Candee of Jersey City who has been visiting Mis T. at the Fort for the past three or four week[s] was with her, returning.

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Three thousand wounded soldiers came up the River and were at the wharf this morning. The Streets have been full of Ambulances much of the time today taking them to the Hospitals. Wounded officers were being brought into the Hotels or limping in themselves, some with their heads bound up and some with their arms in a Sling. Those that were disposed to talk soon had a crowd round them. But little information can be obtained from an officer tho he was in the battle. He can tell what he saw and relate incidents which came under his own observation, but he can know but little of the genl movement of the troop when the line extends for miles and the battle rages perhaps miles distant from him as well as just around him.

May 12, 1864

Washington May 12th 1864

The news from the Army continues favorable. Genl Grant most pertinaciously sticks to Lee driving him from one position to another and making steady progress onward towards Richmond. We have no news from the forces near Richmond today, but it is thought that all the R Roads leading there have been out and communication betwen R. and Lees Army destroyed. Grants Army has been much depleted. He has lost heavily in wounded and in runaways “Skedadlers” as they are called. It is thought that nearly one half of those arriving here as “wounded” before today had no sufficient reason for leaving the Army. Many of them cannot show a scratch. Today patrols are going round and picking them up and they will be sent back.

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Many wounded have arrived today in Steam Boats from Aquia Creek. But surgeons are immediately sent on Board as soon as the Boat arrives who examine every man before he is allowed to go on shore. The runaways are mostly the raw recruits who have but recently joined the Army, the “high bounty men” as they are called. I met Dr Mark Hopkins of Wms College this evening at “Willards,” he has a son wounded who he intends taking home with him. He (the Son) is Capt of Cavalry, 1st Mass. The Hotels are much crowded, these battles have called many people here to see about their friends in the army. Rcd letter from my wife today and answered it. It has rained the most of the day and is thundering and raining now, 10 P.M.

May 13, 1864

Washington May 13th 1864

The news from the Army today is more cheering than ever. Lees RRoad communications have all been cut and it is considered an almost sure thing that his Army will be destroyed or at least scattered. One Division of his Army was defeated yesterday by Genl Hancock, four thousand rebel prisoners and forty guns (cannon) and a large number of small arms were captured, with and including on[e] Major Genl and four Brigadiers. We have nothing from Richmond today. At last accounts Genl Butler was attacking Fort Darling, seven miles below Richmond. There has been a good deal of excitement in the City today in consequence of the news. Every one (excepting the realy rebellious) feels well and elated. We have grasped the shadow so often. We now feel that we have the substance.

May 14, 1864

Washington May 14/64

We hear nothing but confirmatory news today of what we had yesterday. At last accounts the rebel Army was fleeing before the Union troops. It is said that their retreat has become a rout. We hear today from Sherman in Georgia. He has taken Dalton and some 5000 prisoners and a large number of Cannon and small arms. Success attends our Armies everywhere as far as heard from since the Campaigns opened in V.A. [and] Georgia. Genl Banks has made a complete failure of his Expedition up the Red River and lost largely in men and Stores. But that is of little account compared with the importance of operations near to us here. We think that Lees army is crushed, or nearly so. Those who are somewhat more sanguine than myself believe that the War is nearly over.

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May 14th continued

About Eight thousand Prisoners arrived here today and about four hundred Officers (rebel) have been sent to Fort Delaware for confinement. Those Prisoners that have been sent here I suppose will be sent further North. Over twelve thousand of our wounded soldiers have arrived and been placed in Hospital[s]. Most of them are but slightly wounded, and will be sent back to the Army in two or three weeks, probably two thirds of them or at least one half should never have left, for many are but slightly injured and some, not at all. Fredericksburg is one great Hospital. It is said that the inhabitants (rebel) are very kind to our wounded opening their houses voluntarily and nursing them. This report may not prove true. I hope it is true.

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May 14th/64 continued

I was on the Ave this afternoon. I thought I had never seen it so much Crowded with people and vehicles. The weather is delightfully Cool. No mud and no dust (as it rained yesterday) and everybody seemed to be out. The ladies were showing their spring dresses & hats and being gazed at by the loungers and criticized or admired as the “fixings” struck the fancy of the crowd. Great crowds were at the Bulletin boards gazing most intently at the big Capitals and astonishing announcements of Glorious Victories &c. Patriotic men were smiling and shaking hands and feeling well everywhere. I meet some men everyday whose countenances indicate the state of rebel prospects, with as much accuracy as the Barometer does the weather. Today some of them in their attempts to Smile at the good news only bitterly grined.

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Washington May 14/64 (continued)

No one dares openly to express disunion, or disloyal sentiment. The guard house or the old Capitol would be their portion at once if more summary punishment was not meted out on the spot. But in our midst and all around us are those whose hearts are with the South in this great contest. When treason could be talked aloud here they talked it. Policy, and self preservation now only keeps them silent. Many of them are shrewd mony making men, and strange as it may appear the Govt is frequently found to be their best customer. They are all doomed to be overwhelmed as regards their political influence here by the universal “Yankee.” Washington will soon be governed and purified by “Yankees” and the day is near at hand.

May 16, 1864

Monday May 16th 1864

It has been rather a still and quiet day. No exciting news has been circulated and it is understood that not much fighting has been done for the past two or three days. Lee is said to be now occupying a strong position south of Spotsylvania C. H. and I think is not so much weakened as we were hoping he was, his supplies cannot be cut off entirely or he would be compelled to retreat much farther than he probably has. Genl Butler is investing Fort Darling and fighting Beauregard. A great many troops have been sent to re-Inforce Grant. Thirty or forty thousand it is said. A Battery came today from Fairfax C.H., it is said in some haste. Do our military rulers here fear a “raid” by the Rebels? The Defenses have been greatly weakened by sending off the old Garrisons the past week.

May 18, 1864

Washington May 18th 1864

There has been quite a lull in military affairs the past few days. The rebels are still strong and defiant. Genl Grant has been receiving strong re-inforcements since the Battles of last week and is preparing for another forward movement. There has been a great deal of rain the past few days and the roads are in a bad condition. After we have had two or three days of dry weather we shall expect to hear of a forward movement. Perhaps the bloodiest battle of the war is yet to be fought, and that very soon. Genl Butler is investing Fort Darling at Drewrys Bluff below Richmond. Genl Sherman drove the Rebel army from Resaca Georgia and was following them up at last dates. We hear today that Genl Seigel has been repulsed in Shanandoah Valley near New Market

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and has fallen back to Strasburgh. Genl Crooks has defeated the rebels in South Western V.A. near Newberne. All the old Regts which have been occupying the Forts around Washington for the past year or two have been ordered to the “Front.” The “hundred day men” from Ohio and Indiana are taking their places. The wounded soldiers from the late battle fields are still arriving here. The runaways who came on with the first wounded are being sent back. Three hundred yesterday of this class were sent on with a number of officers who were marched in the rear, and some of the more obstreperous of them, who were too indignant to be orderly, had their wrists decorated with the “Bracelets,” and were marched fastened together. It is said that they will be degraded and made to fight in the ranks as a punishment for their cowardice. There was quite an

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Washington May 18th 1864 Contd

excitement today on the Avenue when the Manager and operators of the “Independant Telegraph” were arrested and marched to the old Capitol under guard. It appears that they sent by that line what purported to be a Proclimation by the President ordering a Draft for four hundred thousand men. It was “bogus,” but it had the effect to raise the price of gold in NY 10 pct. It was telegraphed to the “N York World” newspaper. I understand the paper was immediately suppressed. The body of Genl James S Wadsworth has been recovered and arrived here today and will be sent North tomorrow morning, escorted by officers and members of congress. No one who has fallen in this “Cruel War” is more universaly lamented or, was more respected. I believe he was just my own age (58).

May 20, 1864

Washington May 20th 1864

We do not get much direct news from the army today but there has been some fighting at the Front. All the news that is reported from there is always “a Victory” or a “great success,” “The Rebels defeated” &c. Such was the news with which we were regaled day by day a week or two ago, but notwithstanding the numerous “retreats” and “defeats” of Lee and our Victorys and “pursuing,” the Rebel Army is still in our front strong and defiant. Those terrible Battles are to be fought over again. It does seem as though the rebels do intend to die rather than yield, but the Leaders are fighting with halters about their necks. They are desperate and will fight to the last. The great struggle is now in Virginia and this season or year must virtualy end the war if we are successful now.

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May 20th 64 Continued

We shall be, we must be successful in this War. The great question is now to be forever Settled. Whether this is to be a great, Free, and Glorious Union bidding defiance to the rest of the World in arms against us. Or, whether we are to be classed with the other petty powers of this Continent, disturbed by constant broils and annual revolutions &c. No. If the War takes twice the men and twice the money it has already cost to prosecute it to a successful result, the sacrifice must be made before we can think of “Peace” upon any other terms. Genl Grants army is now stronger than it was when he crossed the Rapidan three weeks ago, and it is the intention of the Govt to keep his forces up to the present number

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and settle the question now. I wrote to Julia today, sent her a pair of riding gloves (“ladies gauntletts”) by mail. Sent her also a letter from her cousin Will Taft (from Cincinnati Ohio) dated Fort McHenry Baltimore. He came out with one of the Ohio Regts “100 day men.” He supposed that Julia was here. He is a son of Dr J Taft of Cin. The weather has been most delightful today. There has been no wind, but the atmosphere seemed to be moveing imperceptably. Every leaf was in motion. Everything was vibrating and every blossom was sending out its perfume. Everything in Nature is beautiful now. The squares of the City and the public Grounds are perfect “Illysiums.” The air is loaded with the perfume of flowers and the birds are carroling undisturbed in the trees. But O this horrid war, it is here, everywhere.

May 25, 1864

Wednesday May 25th 1864 (Washington)

Not much worth recording in reference to the War since my last. But more or less fighting is going on nearly everyday among the forces now moveing towards Richmond. From all accounts Genl Grant is making progress and Lee is retireing. It is said that Lee is on the South Anna River and Grant nearby. Genl Butler is at Bermuda Hundred on the James River with his army able to maintain himself there but not strong enough to make much headway, but he keep[s] a large force of Rebels under Beauregard from re-inforcing Lee. Butler first took a position on the Richmond and Petersburg R Road, but has been compelled to fall back to the River where he has intrenchments. Nothing has been heard from Genl Sherman who at last accounts was pursuing the Rebel Genl Joe Johnson

0047

Continued

through Georgia. Rome was in our possession and the last fight noticed was at Resaca. We are now expecting to hear of a hard battle at Atlanta soon as Sherman was at last accounts within two or three days march of that place. Genl Banks with his Army is wending his way back to the Miss River after his disastrous attempt to go to Shrieveport (or up the Red River). Banks and Seigel have both lost “cast” as Military men by their recent failures to succeed in going ahead. The wounded continue to arrive and the fifteen thousand empty beds of a month ago are now full. Should other battles like the past take place and the wounded be sent here as usual, it is expected that the Govt will take the Churches again for Hospitals. I was through Harewood Hospital (Corcorans Farm) three miles N East.

0048

Washington May 25/64 continued

On Saturday last, there were two thousand patients there, and at that time nearly one thousand vacant beds. Not many very bad wounds were noticed. A great share of the soldiers were able to walk about, being wounded in the arms or flesh wounds of not a very serious character. But there were many in bed and some evidently sinking into their last resting place. Many old veterans who had nearly served out their three years had “fought their last battle” and were awaiting the slow but sure approach of their last great Enemy. It was a very warm day Saturday and I noticed that the poor fellows on their beds all over the Hospital needed fans. I went to the “Sanitary” the next day and had two boxes (500 each) sent up there. The cheap palm leaf fan affords much comfort in these cases, and are generaly provided.

May 29, 1864

Washington May 29th 1864

We have had no direct information from the Army for the past four days until today that has been of much importance. Today it is said that Grant is on Lees right, East of the Richmond and Fredericksburg R Road and within twelve miles of Richmond. The communication is not kept up with the Army through Fredericksburg. That City has been abandoned and the Army is now supplied from Port Royal on the Rappahannock and from the York River. The worst cases of wounded men were at Fredericksburgh but they have all been removed to this City, at least, those that lived to get here for many died on the way, some on the Dock (five or six) after they were landed from the Steam Boats, and some died in the Ambulances on they [sic] way through the City to the Hospitals. Some were taken from the Boats on “Stretchers” and carried by hand. It was a sorry sight.

0050

Washington May 29th/64 (Cont'd)

According to the Books of the Medical Director, the number of wounded men who have been admitted in to Hospitals from the late Battle fields (this month) is Twenty six thousand. The proportion Killed in these battles has been less than usual it is said, amounting to about five thousand only, but I think it is more. Today Chas called for me to go out with him to his home, “Clifton,” near Georgetown. So I got into his buggy with him and went with him on his “rounds” to the various ports which he visits as Medical Officer. Two places in Washington viz. the Head Qrs of the Veteran Reserve Corps, and the Guard Hd Qrs at the Medical Purveyors. Then we went to “Forest Hall” Georgetown where we were detained an hour or two as there were many there to be examined. All the deserters and Straglers are taken there where they are examined as to their physical condition. Some are sent

0051

Continued

to Hospital (the Stone Hospital). Some are retained for a few days till they get able to travel, but the greater portion are sent to their Regiments. Some however are discharged if found useless as soldiers in consequence of physical disability. Such was the case of a Private named Thompson from Chemung County NY today. He had formerly been a wealthy man and member a[t] one time of the Legislature, but got to drinking of late years and turned up a private Soldier and too much broken down for that. Chas was treated with much respect by the officers of the establishment and after the examination was over he dictated to two or three Clerks what report to make at Hd Qrs in reference to the men there. That is such of them as were to be removed. From Forest Hall we next visited the Signal Camp on Georgetown Hights where I had a splendid view of the Potomac and surrounding Country.

0052

Washington May 29th/64 (Continued)

I was informed at the “Signal Camp” by the Adjutant (Lieut Niles or Miles[?]) that they could convey information by signaling Twenty one miles. For long distances they use a Telescope mounted on a tripod, but for ordinary distances of six to twelve miles they use a much smaller glass. The Camp is commanded by Capt Russell. We arrived at “Clifton” just after noon where I dined and remained till near six this evening when I walked back to Washington. Chas offered to bring me but I prefered to walk. I came back through the North part of the City and on my way visited the grave of that excentric preacher Lorenzo Dow. He lies in old but interesting Burying Ground on Boundary Street (Corner of 21st ), The Holmead Burying ground. A large stone slab lies over the grave. Born in /77, died in /32. The following is on the Stone “Slave to no sect. He took no private road. But looked through Nature up to Natures God.” I pulled a sprig from a rose bush growing by the Stone, remembering to have seen him in Lyons, once, preaching on the public Square.

June 2, 1864

Washington June 2nd 1864

No very great addition has been made to our stock of information in reference to army movements since my last date. Genl Grant had a pretty severe fight on Monday last (30th ult) but no particulars as yet. His army is near Mechanicsville some five or six miles north of Richmond. A portion of Butlers Army formed a Junction or Joined Grants army last week (under Genl “Baldy” Smith). It is now said that Genl Lee is inside of the entrenchments of Richmond. I imagine that it is where Grant wants him. I think he will cut off supplies from the City and compell Lee to evacuate or Surrender. Grants army is now supplied from the “White House” on the Pamunky River, Genl McClellans old Depot, during the “Peninsula Campaign.” Genl Sherman was driving “Joe” Johnson before him through Georgia and was not far from Atlanta at last accounts.

June 8, 1864

Washington June 8th 1864

Fighting almost every day now before Richmond. Genl Grant is loosing a great many men but is also getting re-inforcements enough (perhaps) to make up for his losses. The Rebels loose probably more than we do as much of the fighting has been where they have been the attacking party. I do not think Grant has made much progress for a week towards Richmond, but has repelled all attacks and gained some favorable positions. It is said that twenty or thirty heavy Siege guns have been sent down to Grant this week. The Battles of the Army of the Potomac for the past two weeks have been no “skirmishes” from all I can learn from the “official” and other reports. Grant has lost in killed and wounded & prisoners within that time near twenty thousand men. The Hospitals are about full but I am told that orders have been sent up from the army to make room for twelve thousand more wounded immediately.

0055

June 8th contd

I have spent considerable time in Hospitals this week, have visited a number of them. The same sad scenes of a year ago are witnessed in all. I spent a couple of hours in the “Stanton” this evening after dinner. It is realy hard to leave the poor fellows, some of whom cannot help themselves. They love so to be faned which keeps off the flies, and makes them comfortable comparatively speaking for the flies are extremely anoying this warm weather. Some that I sat by and faned on Sunday last were not there tonight - gone. A Lieut (Buel) from an Ohio Regt cannot last till tomorrow morning. He was insensible. A Sergeant from Penna will die in a day or two, I judge from the change since Sunday. He is a victim of bad surgery on the field. I have felt much interested in a badly wounded boy (Gilbert Smith) of Romulusville NY (Seneca Co) shot through the body. I think he may recover but, very doubtful.

0056

Washington June 8th/64 continued

Mr Lincoln was unanimously re-nominated today by the Union National Convention at Baltimore. The “race” for the Presidency as it now looks will be betwen Lincoln and Genl Fremont, who was nominated the other day at Cleveland Ohio by a section of the Republican Party. From his letter of Acceptance published in the Washington Chronicle today I have no doubt but the Democratic Convention which meets soon at Chicago will nominate him also. This movement may combine strength enough to make Mr Lincolns election not a very easy matter especialy if our armies should be unsuccessful in the field this summer. Should we put down the rebels or virtualy close the war before election there will be no doubt of Mr Ls success in the contest, perhaps there is none anyway, but.

June 18, 1864

Washington June 18th 1864

In looking back through the past ten days I can fix upon no very striking event that has taken place. Army operations of great importance have been undoubtedly going on, but no decisive Battles have been fought, if we except the victory of Genl Hunter in Western Virginia near Staunton. In ordinary wars it would be considered of great importance to defeat the enemy and kill wound and capture three or four thousand men. Now, so much attention is absorbed by the greater armies of Genl Grant an[d] Sherman that but little is said of the “little affair at Staunton.” Grant has during the present week “changed his Base” again and is now with his whole army on the South side of the James River. Petersburgh was captured on Thursday last. We may look for hot times now near Richmond. The defences are supposed to be weaker on that side of the City than anywhere else. If Fort Darling (Drewrys Bluff) is taken our “Iron Clads” may go up and shell the City. It is supposed that Grant intends to cut all the R Roads and stop supplies to the City & not fight before the entrenchments.

0058

Washington June 18th 1864

There seems to be less excitement in the City than usual when such important Army movements are going on. I think it quite possible that we may be “waked up” here before long. Washington is now in a more defenceless condition than it has been for the past two years. Genl Lee might well swap Richmond for Washington and nothing but means of transportation will hinder him from coming here if he finds that he cannot hold Richmond. I have no doubt but an army of fifteen or twenty thousand determined men could take this City. Nearly all the old troops have been sent to Grant and the Defences are now maned by raw troops from the West, mostly. A few thousand of the Invalid Corps and Veteran Reserves are still here. There is now no obstruction in the shape of an army betwen here and Richmond, and I think it quite possible that we may have a visit from the “rebs” yet.

0059

Continued

Congress is still in session, but it does not seem to be doing much. The Tax Bill is now the most important, and the the most important feature of that Bill seems to be whiskey, for what Tax to put upon it, has occasioned more discussion than all the rest of it. The two “Houses” remain in session late at night frequently. The light through the tops of the small Domes over each Hall shows plainly at my room and I can lie in my bed and tell when either House adjourns at night (if I only keep awake). The Drums are beating off towards the Depot, and more troops are coming in I suppose. Possibly some of the old Regts are going home for they are going almost every day. Those whose time has expired which is the case with most of the early three years Regiments. But more or less of the men from all of them have re-inlisted for the war. Sherman is near Atlanta G.a. and means to take it and probably will. It is a very important point to the Rebels.

June 28, 1864

Washington June 28th 1864

In looking over my last “minutes” I see that I stated that Petersburgh was taken, but altho it was so reported it is not taken yet. Frequent attacks upon the defences have been made and some of the out works have been carried, but the City is still held by the rebels and is defended with as much determination as Richmond itself, and is said to be equaly as well fortified. We have nothing from Shermans army in Georgia of a decisive character as yet. He is not far from Atlanta and is meeting with strong resistance from the Rebels under “Joe Johnson.” The Rebel Genl Polk was killed there the other day. He who exchanged the Pulpit for the camp and battle field, but he was educated at West Point and undoubtedly imbibed his war spirit in early life. “Those that take the sword shall perish by the sword,” especialy Bishops and Priests who should preach only Peace on earth and good will to man.

0061

Continued

In the present state of the affairs of our Country matters do not look very flattering. What was considered an overwhelming army two months ago under Genl Grant has dwindled down to a force now near Petersburgh and on the James River (south) which is considered entirely too weak for extensive offensive operations and is at the Present time able to do but little more than hold its own. The loss of men since this campaign began has been enormous. The killed wounded and missing cannot be less than one hundred thousand. This loss has mainly been incured in efforts to carry by assault strong “Earth works.” Whenever the Rebels are found there will be found entrenchments, rifle pits, strongly posted Batterys behind earth works. In acting as they generaly have in this campaign on the defensive, this has given them greatly the advantage. If Genl Grant had landed his great army (where his small one is now) two months ago, and instead of fighting breastworks had cut off the R Roads leading to Richmond and fought on the defensive, what then?

0062

Washington June 28th/64

The weather for the past week has been extremely hot, the Mercury ranging from 90 to 96 in the shade every day. Yesterday there was a slight shower and today there is quite a change in the atmosphere. Many people are leaving the City for the summer and going north, anticipating much sickness here this summer in consequence of the extremely foul state of the City. It is in fact but a great Hospital. Aside from its other impurities, the worst of all is the Canal which is at low water a seething, sickening mass of corruption into which all the Sewers of the City empty. If it does not breed a pestilence in conection with other causes this summer it will certainly be because Washington is an uncommonly healthy City. I think seriously of getting out of it myself for the summer, if I can. Sea breezes and sea bathing never had more attraction for me than they do now.

July 4, 1864

July 4th 1864 (Monday)

No organized Celebration of the Day has taken place here, but all seem to [have] celebrated more or less on their “own hook.” There were orations delivered by gentlemen residing here at some of the Hospitals and the inmates had extra fare &c. I met Capt Sebastian Holmes of Lyons in the morning and we went together to the Capitol. Congress was still in session but adjourned at half past twelve today. I was at the Carver Hospital yesterday. Saw a Wayne Co boy there badly wounded by the name of Page. He is a brave and plucky fellow but will probably die, his mother is with him. I was at the Stanton and Douglass Hospitals today. The cases in all the Hospitals here now are very bad ones, all those able to travel having been sent north. I think that at least one third now in Hospital here will die. The hot weather is very unfavorable, from fifty to seventy deaths are reported pr day.

0064

Washington July 4th 64 (continued)

No important army movements have taken place. A large force of Cavalry under Genl Wilson have succeeded in destroying Thirty or forty miles of the Danville & Richmond R Road, but got roughly treated on their return by the rebels looseing a good many men and some eight or ten “guns” besides their train. There has been no serious fighting before Petersburgh very recently. Genl Grant has probably concluded to cut off the supplies from Richmond and conquer the City in that way. He is posted now with his whole Army in the vicinity of the James River, his lines extending to the southern R. Road south of Petersburgh. He has Batteries planted which throw Shells into the City daily, one in every ten minutes. The soldiers call it the “Petersburgh Express” which runs regularly to the City. I heard from Maj (now Lieut Col) E P Taft the other day. He was on duty at the “front.”

July 9, 1864

Washington Saturday July 9th 1864

A week ago I intended to be at home now but I cannot well leave the office at present as there is now something of a press of business with the Examining Board. More than that I would not like to leave the City while the Rebels are threatening it. There is very “exciting times” just now up in Maryland and in Pennsylvania. A large force of rebels have crossed the Potomac within two or three days and tonight it is reported that they occupy the City of Frederick, M.D. The rebel force is estimated at all numbers from five thousand to thirty thousand. It is supposed that they will make an attempt upon this City or Baltimore next. Some squads of rebel Cavalry have been within fifteen miles of this City within two or three days on this side of the Potomac. This rebel “raid” is supposed to be intended to draw Grant away from Richmond to Defend Washington. But that “ruse” will not do. I think that will be done without Grant.

July 10, 1864

Washington Sunday July 10th 1864

I went this morning over to Georgetown Heights, “Clifton” (the late Col Ellet place), and have spent the day with Chas and family very quietly. I could hear the Drums beating most of the day in Washington and on my return tonight about eight o'clock in the “Cars” the street was nearly full of people and soldiers. We met five Regiments going west or through Georgetown and it was quite an impressive sight to see so many bright bayonets gleaming in the dim gaslight and to listen to the measured tread upon the pavement. An “Extra” appeared about four o'clock this afternoon stating that the Rebels were within fifteen miles of Baltimore. There will be a fight tomorrow and they will be defeated or Baltimore captured, it is said that the rebels are at least 20,000 strong. They must be greatly outnumbered by our troops, but they are mostly raw troops.

0067

Continued

Another Extra was “out” about seven o'clock this evening which stated that the rebels were marching on Washington. This is making the matter more interesting still. It promises lively times here tomorrow, and may account for the movement of troops which I saw this evening. I suppose our wise men here know what they are about and have taken sufficient precautions to ensure the safty of the City. This demonstration on the part of the Rebels is just what might have been expected if it was possible for them to make it and should have been provided for if it has not been. I have expected it ever since Grant crossed the James River and refered to it at the time he crossed in these pages as quite probable. I have no idea how many men there are in the fortifications around the City. But there should never have been less than thirty or forty thousand in and around the City, at any time.

July 11, 1864

Washington July 11th 1864. Monday.

Yesterday we thought the rebels were at or near Baltimore, today we find them in large force within from four to six miles of this City. Considerable skirmishing has been going on just outside of the line of Fortifications north of the City. But as yet there has been no general engagement. It is expected that there will be an attack upon the City tomorrow. It seems that they abandoned the idea of taking Baltimore and have turned their attention to Washington. But I think they have waited too long and have allowed troops to concentrate here in sufficient numbers within the past three or four days to defeat them in any attempt to take the City. It was reported in the papers this morning that my nephew Lieut Col E P Taft was killed on Saturday in the Battle at Monocacy Junction near Frederick, M.D. I wrote his

0069

11th Continued

Father today, should have sent a Telegraphic dispatch, but the wires were out. The Rail Road is also out betwen Baltimore and Phila so that a letter may be a long time reaching any point far north. I went to the State Department at once after seeing the report to see Mr Seward knowing that his son went to Baltimore yesterday with the intention of reaching his Brother Col Seward, who was reported wounded in the same Battle. But the son could not get beyond Baltimore and Mr S. could give me no further information in reference to the report of the Death of Col E. P. but thought the report was true. It will be sad intelligence to his family and friends in Lyons. He leaves an amiable wife and three small children. May God “Temper the wind to the shorn lambs” in this sad case. Capt Lyman Rogers died last evening at the Armory Square Hospital.

0070

Washington July 11th/64 (continued)

I am soon going to bed but rather expect to be disturbed by the report of Cannon before my usual hour for rising - 6 o'clock. If the rebels make an attack on the Forts at all, I think that it will be by tomorrow morning. It is said today that they are Forty thousand strong now in Maryland and threatening the City. Should they make an attack it will be a bloody fight. If they do not attack tomorrow I think it will be because their object is not so much Washington or Baltimore as to obtain Horses, Cattle, and provisions and then they will attempt to slide off over the Potomac into Virginia and escape. We shall know soon. Should they succeed in taking any of the Forts we may be treated to a few Shells from our own Cannon. The City has been in great excitement all day. I have worked in my office as usual.

0071

July 11th continued

I never saw such a crowd of people on P.a. Ave as on this afternoon. Excited crowds were listening to some new comer from the northern Forts, or surrounding a soldier or swallowing the most absurd stories from some sober faced wag. Troops were marching up from the River and hurrying through the City to the Forts north. The whole of the 6th Corps have come up now from the Army of the Potomac and many other troops have arrived. Mr Lincoln and Sec'y Stanton passed in a carriage thinking (perhaps) that it was necessary to show the people that they were not frightened. I mentaly wondered why or how a rebel Army of Thirty or forty thousand could leave Richmond, and get across the Potomac, and be almost knocking at the gates of the City and they know nothing about it, or at least think it only a “raid” of a few hundred Troopers!!

July 12, 1864

Washington July 12th 1864

Well, the day has passed away and no serious attack has been made upon the City. But there has been constant skirmishing along the line of work north of the City and today the rebels have cut and destroyed the Rail Road for some miles betwen here and Baltimore, Burning the Bridge at Laurel &c. It is said that they occupy Bladensburgh tonight. It is also reported that a rebel force has appeared on the Virginia side of the Potomac not many miles south of the City. I have heard considerable heavy firing this evening about sundown and for two hours from that direction. The reports might have been from from [sic] some of our Forts getting the range by practice. The Militia of the District has been called out and the Clerks in the Departments are prepareing

0073

12th Continued

for duty. We had reports of fighting today near Tennallytown, Fort Reno &c. I went up to Georgetown and took the Stage and went to Tennallytown (three miles from Georgetown) this afternoon. In the hope of seeing something of the fight, a Shell burst &c, but was not gratified because there was no fighting going on nearby, and consequently no Shells flying, and more than that I was not allowed to remain but a few minutes, all civilians being ordered presumptorily to leave forthwith. As I did not expect to stay any longer than the Stage did the order did not disappoint me much. To the East from a half a mile to two miles I could hear the constant report of musketry and see the puffs of smoke. I returned to G[eorge].town about 5 o'clock. After my return to this City I went on top of the Patent office with a good glass but could see nothing.

July 13, 1864

Washington July 13th 1864

Another day and the reports and the general belief is tonight That the rebels have left or are leaving Maryland and crossing the River back into Virginia. Efforts are being made to intercept them which may prove partialy successful. They have undoubtedly a large amount of plunder, Cattle, Horses, &c. I was told tonight by one who says he knows that the rebels numbered 22,000 men only. It has been a great “scare” for the Country amounting to a great foraging expedition if this is the last of it, and I am inclined to think it is. I went up to Sec'y Sewards this morning and saw Col Seward of the 9th and got what information I could in reference to my nephew Col E P Taft (reported killed) and wrote his Father again. It is possible that he is only wounded and a prisoner.

July 16, 1864

Washington July 16th 1864

Very little has been heard of the rebels in this vicinity for the last three or four days. They seem to have departed with their plunder (some eight thousand horses and two or three thousand head of cattle). No information has as yet been published that we have succeeded in recapturing a horse or cow or a rebel since they crossed the Potomac on their return. If this rebel “raid” does not prove the ruin of this Administration, it will be Owing to successes in other quarters. More stupidity could not well be manifested than it has been shown in this matter, with Washington in a defenceless condition and inviting the invader. No body was on the alert, and all were in stupid ignorance until an army of Twenty or Thirty Thousand were found knocking at our gates. If they did not come in it was their own fault. They might have done it during three or four days.

0076

Washington July 16th 1864

I have my baggage all packed up ready to start for the North and home the forepart of the next week. My health needs recruiting and my family expect me about this time. I should have gone a week ago but could not get through. I do not expect to be absent more than two or three weeks, but I realy do not care much if I never come back here to stay. A “place” in the Gover[n]ment Departments is not worth much now with the old Salaries which were fixed when gold was paid but are now paid in “paper” worth about forty cents on the dollar. Gold is quoted today at 2.50, it has been 3.35. The expense of living has increased to at leas[t] double the former rates. Flour is held at $18.00, coal $13.00, oak wood $11.00, pine $8.00 pr cord, cotton sheeting 60 cents pr yard, Hams 35 cts pr lb, Beef D[itt]o.

October 3, 1864

Washington Oct 3rd 1864

What a hiatus in my Journal!! Since I last wrote I have been at home six weeks having started the very next day, the 17th July. I was a good deal out of health when I went away, the extreme hot weather had nearly “used me up.” I did not return till the 30th of August. Considerable progress has been made in the war. Sherman has taken Atlanta. But Grant has not yet taken Petersburgh or Richmond. But is now on the move and has gained some successes the past week. There is now Fighting down there every day and a great Battle is expected soon which will probably decide the fate of Richmond. Genl Sheridan who superseded Hunter in the Shanandoah Valley, after the late raid into Maryland & P.a. of the Rebel Genls Early & Breckenridge, has Driven them all out of the Valley after two or three hard Battles, one at “Winchester” and one at “Fishers Hill” and others of less note, and now near Staunton V.a. with

0078

Oct 3rd contind

a large army probably 75,000 men. Admiral Farrigut [h]as passed the Rebel Forts into Mobile Harbor, after a most gallent naval fight and captured the Forts afterwards. But has not captured the City yet. So far in this War, Genl W T Sherman has Shown the most ability as a Genl on Land (in my opinion) and Farrigut on Water, without doubt. It looks very much now as though the rebellion was “caving in” for want of men. It is not thought that they can cope with Grant, or Sherman, or Sheridan. The Draft for 300,000 men is now going on peacefully all over the Union. But the most of the number will be Volunteers. Enormous Bounties are paid in the Northern & Eastern States for Volunteers. There is a U.S. Bounty, a State Bounty, and a County, and in many of the Counties, a Town Bounty, am[oun]ting to from $1000 to $1600 for three years men and from $600 to $1200 for one years men.

0079

Contd

Genl Geo B McClellan was nominated for President of the U.S. by the Democratic Party at Chicago on the 30th August. The “Peace at any price” men and the rebel sympathisers generaly suport him. Altho I believe him to be a good Union man, and have the highest regard for him as a Patriot and man of talents, still I do not think he can be Elected. The character of many of his supporters will ruin his prospects. His friends, (at least many of them) the most talented & influential, are not to be trusted to make a Peace with Armed Rebels, and the Chicago Resolutions or “Platform” demand a cessation of hostilities at once even when to all appearances we are about crushing the thing out. If the Rebels lay down their arms and submit to the laws, return to their allegiance, there will be peace at once, and I think they must soon do it or fare worse.

October 11, 1864

Washington Oct 11th 1864

The State Election in P.a. Ohio & Indiana “comes off” today and excite much interest as the result in those States will indicate pretty surely what will be the result there in Nov. I have been down to the Republican Head Qrs on 9th St but no news had been rcd up to 9 o'clock. No very important War news has been rcd the past week. There has been some fighting near Richmond and also in the Shenandoah Valley. Genl Sheridan has fallen back down the Valley and is now probably near Winchester. He has met with no Serious losses but captured many prisoners and 25 or Thirty Cannon, Defeating the rebels in all important engagements. Genl Grant it is thought will make an onslaught on Richmond soon. I think in a week or so, at least before the 1st Nov. It is the genl impression now that

0081

Mr Lincoln will be re-Elected by a large majority. If that should be so, and it is seen that it is the settled determination of the Govt to put down the rebellion, to Continue the War until the rebels submit and lay down their arms, I think the rebel leaders will see the folly of resisting and will submit before New Years. In fact I do not believe they can continue the War much longer for the Want of men. The Draft to make out the 300,000 men is now proceeding peaceably all over the loyal States and the Regiments have been arriving at their destinations for a month past, far the larger portion of the 300,000 are Volunteers. There is no Draft in some of the States. The High Bounties have called out men enough to fill their quotas. The rebel strength in men is diminishing every day and they cannot recruit.

December 1, 1864

Thursday Dec 1st 1864

Since my last date the Presidential Election has passed off quietly and Mr Lincoln is re-Elected, every non Slave holding State but one (New Jersey) going for him. No very great Battles have been fought lately. Genl Grant made an unsuccessful attack upon the Rebel works in Oct. Since which time there has not been much fighting with the “Army of the Potomac.” Genl Sheridan defeated the Rebels under Genl Early three times within Thirty days, the last Battle “Cedar Creek” about the time of my last date. He has been made a Major Genl in the Regular Army for it. Genl Sherman left Atlanta on the 12th Nov. and Struck boldly out for the Atlantic coast through the centre of Georgia. It is the boldest move of the War. He severed himself from all communication with his former base of supplies from Chattanooga or any other “base” as well

0083

as from all intercourse with Washington. We now only hear from him through Rebel papers. When last heard from he had been out about two weeks from Atlanta and was said to be forty miles south of A[u]gusta. He has a powerful Army of Veterans, probably fifty thousand men, ten thousand being Cavalry. The Rebels of course are in a state of great excitement and threaten to destroy him totaly but they have not the power to do it, and we shall soon hear of him and his Army from Savannah or Charleston. He is smashing up Rail Roads and all rebel Govt property as he goes and living off the Country. What Towns or Cities he has taken we do not know with the exception of Milledgeville the Capital of Georgia, where he distroyed the public Buildings, so the Rebels say. Tonight we learn that Genl Thomas has gained an important Victory over the rebel Army under Genl Hood at Franklin Tennessee.

0084

Dec 1st 64 continued

I went home to L[ong] I[sland] to attend the Election, was gone two weeks. I returned to Washington on the 18th Nov. On my return I visited Williamstow[n] Mass. Staid there two days. I left Julia there with her uncle C R Taft. She expects to spend a few weeks there and then go to Lyons. Washington is again filling up (it has seemed full all the time). Congress meets next Monday and the members are appearing on the Avenue now quite plenty. I have changed my “base” since my last date. I am now in 488½ on 7th Betwen D & E Streets, have a large front room on third floor. There are six rooms on this floor, all occupied by very quiet lodgers. Mr Edward Shaw rents the whole floor and sublets the rooms keeping one himself, which he has occupied for eleven years past.

December 4, 1864

Dec 4th 1864 (Sunday)

The weather has been warm and pleasant for some ten days past, it has been “Indian Summer” with a soft balmy air and smokey atmosphere, the pleasantest days of the year. Today it has been delightful. I went to the 4½ Street Church, the 1st Pres[byterian] (Doct Sunderlands) to hear the Rev Jonas King the Missionary from Athens Greece for the past Thirty six years. He gave quite an interesting account of his labors and trials while there. He was educated at Williams College and taught School there while in College about 1814 or 15. I think he was the first School Master I ever went to. I spoke to him after church this morning and walked with him to his lodgings at the “Avenue House” conversing about people in Wmstow[n] and the changes which had taken place in the Country since he left. He is what may be called an enthusiastic American. He must be over Seventy but does not show his age much.

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Sunday Dec 4th/64 continued

Toward evening I went up to Camp Stoneman, or rather Martindale Barracks, now near the “Circle” on the Avenue and took tea with Capt White & Lady. He is in command of a Veteran Reserve Com'y doing guard duty in the City. Mrs White is the daughter of John Layton of Lyons. I returned about dark and called at Charleys who is now keeping house on F St opposite the Patent office. Mr Woodward & family & Mr Lieb & lady live with him. They pay $120 pr month for the House furnished for six months. Eight rooms only all told, and two of them in the Basement. Mr W. is a boarder and pays the rent. Mr Lieb pays $65 pr month. Little Charley Jr is growing and improving finaly, he is thirteen months old and very inteligent for a child so young. I returned to my room, “Shaw Settlement” as we call it, before 9 o'clk. My room is 16 by 21 feet and ceiling 10 feet high with two large front windows.

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There does not appear to be any very important “War news” today. Nothing from Sherman of a definite character. The Richmond papers admit that they have no force that can stop his progress to the coast. We shall hear from him soon. It is said that Sheridans Army is moving from the Valley and going down the River probably to re-inforce Grant. I suppose the Rebels have left the “Valley” if that is true. But I presume that troops enough are left to guard the important places up there. Congress meets tomorrow and the Hotels are quite full. Old faces are met with which appear here periodicaly. Old hangers on, old [“Bosess,”?] old gamblers, besides the faces of Members of congress. Many of them may be called old Sharpers, for I do believe that they get Elected to Congress more to make money than anything else. The opportunities are not wanting for any member who will sacrifice his honor to favor or oppose a measure for money.

December 8, 1864

Washington Dec 8th 1864

Congress is in Session. The long looked for Message was sent in the next day the 6th and the Reports of the Secretaries have been published. Mr Lincoln does not express any hope for immediate Peace. He says when the Rebels cease fighting the War will cease. “Lay down your Arms” is about all the comfort the rebels get. They will have to submit to the to the total abolition of Slavery. That I think is a foregone conclusion. The Constitution of the U.S. will be amended to that Effect. This or the next Congress will pass the Act submiting the Amendment to the States and three fourths of them are ready to ratify it. There does not seem to be any prospect of Peace till the Rebels are entirely exhausted. They are fighting for Independance and Slavery. They can have neither.

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We have no news from Sherman yet. At last accounts (from rebel papers) he was approaching the Atlantic coast and it was supposed he would Strike Savannah. Mr Lincoln, in a short speech which he made to the crowd who Seranaded him the other night said in reference to Genl Sherman, “I know where he went in but I cannot tell you where he will come out.” I have been quite lame today. I sprained my left foot last evening going up stairs to my room, rather too fast, two steps at a time. It has troubled me to walk all day. Mr Boice and Mr Vanderburgh from Lyons called upon me this morning with Capt Bourne, and this afternoon Col E P Taft very unexpectedly gave me a call, his leg is nearly healed but he tells me that He has been mustered out of the Service, has come down to settle up his business &c, will stay a week or two.

December 14, 1864

Dec.14th 1864 (Washington)

The City seems to be overflowing with people, rents are constantly rising and prices of everything raise in proportion. A person cannot find common Board now (meals only) for less than $25 pr month, and from that to $50 and $60. The Hotels here are now charging from $4.00 to $5.00 pr day. I had occasion to buy a few yards of factory cotton cloth one yard wide about the first of this month, paid $.75 pr yard - used to buy it for ten cents. Cotton is worth (or at least sells for) much more than wool, flour is $18 pr Bll, Butter 65 cts pr lb, fresh Beef (best) 35 cts, Ham 30, Cheese 30, Oak wood $12 pr cord, Coal $15.00 pr ton, Milk 20 cts pr quart. Books have just about doubled in price. News papers sold by news boys 5 cts, some of the NY papers sell for 10. The “Independent” does.

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Penn Avenue is the great Artery of the City as “Broad Way” is in NY. It is the great River into which all the little streams enter. Everything can be seen there in the shape of humanity, from the Millionaire to the beggar. “Shoulder Straps” are not as plenty as they used to be, but there is a good sprinkling of them seen yet. One cannot pass a few squares on the “Ave” now without seeing nearly all the grades of rank indicated, from the two Stars of the Maj Genl to the Chevrons of the Sergeant, and privates without number. Soldiers are constantly either going or coming through the City, either on their way Home or to the Army, “The Front.” Many are in Hospital convalesent and get their “leave” for a few hours and perambulate the City. Here are couple of rather pale looking fellows from Hospital on crutches. One meets

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Dec 14/64

many such, and many empty sleeves. One cannot pass them without a feeling of sadness altho they generaly seem happy and in good spirits. One always meets certain well know[n] characters or persons, who like all the rest of the world, prominade in the afternoon. Beau Hickman is one of the standard characters of the City. He is always seen shuffling along, for “Beau” has been lame for a long time. He has had the gout or something of that sort for his toes are sadly distorted. He probably lived too high when he succeeded so well in former days as a professional “Sponge” when wine and rich viands were matters of everyday use with him. Poor “Beau,” his stories, his jokes, his duns, his “Taxes,” all are Stale now. He does not “take” any men. “Beau” is now considered a decided Bore.

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“Johny,” who sells matches and Blacking, is another well known personage who always seems to be everywhere. He is very much deformed and very lame and hobbles along with the greatest difficulty, but he is a quiet inoffensive fellow with a cast off high crowned hat on his head with a cockade on it and sometimes a small Union flag flying from it, for “Johny” is a Staunch Union Man. He took the “Ave” by surprise a year or two ago by promenading with a female arm in arm minus the symbols of his trade & his patriotism, and dressed in a new suit of clothes. “Johny” was short and very crooked and the female was tall and very strait. He knew everybody and bowed to everybody and everybody to him with a smothered laugh. Johny confessed that he had Married a wife and got six hundred dollars with her, when “pumped” a day or two after.

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Washington Dec 14/64

There are other characters no less well known and quite as little respected. There is a “pink” of “fashion.” His coat is buttoned up to the chin, his collar and cravat are faultless (he may have a shirt on, and may not), his hat is well worn and smo[o]th with much brushing, his boots are well polished, and his pants straped down tight. He is always drawing on his teids or taking them off with his rattan under his arm. He is now picking his teeth on the Piazza at the “National” with the most careless air or twirling his moustache while looking over the “arrivals” at the office. Does he board there? not a bit of it. Nobody knows where he lives or what he does. He is always seen, is one of a Class who may be seen do[d]ging out of a dirty alley sometimes in the morning from ten cent lodgings and getting, occasionaly, money from home.

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But these characters have diverted our attention from the great moveing throng on the “Ave.” Here comes the Patrol guard, a dozen or so of well dressed soldiers with white gloves and polished shoes, and bright muskets. A Lieut is a little a head and stops the guard before a Hotel while he enters and addresses himself to all “shoulder straps,” who must show their “passes.” The same with all soldiers on the street. Here comes another squad of soldiers mixed up with a motly crowd of ragged and hard looking men. They too are a guard. They are taking some prisoners to the old Capitol Prison. Those hard looking long haired men are rebel Prisoner “Guerrillas” perhaps captured somewhere over in V.a. Such a crowd is usualy followed by the usual number of ragged boys, Negroes and other idlers. We frequently see old men among such prisoners, and almost every day such crowds pass.

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Washington Dec 14/64

There is a troop of Cavalry just coming in covered with dust or mud (one or the other always prevails in Washington). The horses look jaded and tired. The troopers look grim and dirty. They have bags of provender, and blankets straped to their saddles. Their carbines swung over their shoulders with the muzzle pointing to the ground. Their canteens also suspended from the shoulder. The steel scabbard sword and revolvers hung to the Belts. They walk their horses through the street. People look at them and think they have been on a “raid.” There is usualy some led horses with accoutrements all on. You gaze at the empty Saddle with a thrill, for it is fearfully suggestive of a life struggle of wounds and death. Perhaps the dry red blood is still on the saddle. Where is the rider? “Alas nor wife nor children more shall he behold nor friends nor sacred home.”

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Washington Dec 14/64

Here is the carriage of Mrs Lincoln before a dry goods Store, her footman has gone into the Store. The Clerk is just going out to the carriage (where Mrs L is waiting) with some pieces of goods for her to choose from. I should rather think that she would have a better chance at the goods if she was to go into the Store but then she might get jostled and gazed at and that too would be doing just as the common people do. The footman holds the carriage door open. The driver sits on the box and hold[s] the horses. Mrs L. thumbs the goods and asks a great many questions. People turn round and look at the carriage after they pass, it is the Presidents Carriage. The carriage, horses, and all make a very modest appearance. Many a Farmer in the country can show a better “turnout.” Nothing is noticeable except that it is Mrs Lincoln, and the driver and the footman have gold bands & cockades on their hats.

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Washington Dec/64

There comes down the Avenue a Battery of Artillery. It is astonishing how a Battery of six guns (“twelve pounders”) will stretch out, and what a rattling it will make over the pavement. Every gun has six horses and a Caisson with six more horses with nine or ten men to a gun. Every gun an[d] Caisson has a spare wheel securely lashed on behind. Then there follows the Amunition wagons and the Forge, and the Baggage. Altogether not less than a quarter of a mile is occupied, perhaps more. Sometimes they go through the Street on a gallop and then such a rumbling and rattling of the carriages and clattering of hoofs of the horses, such a jolting and bounding of the men was never heard or seen. No human voice could be heard but at the Bugle call halt, all is still in an instant. The horses and men are like statues, still, and motionless.

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H N Chapman is from Rockford Ill. He is a Clerk in the Genl Land office and occupies a room adjoining to mine. He is a great talker, full of argument, full of self conceit and very dogmatic in his opinions besides being very nervous altho he is quite large and given somewhat to Obesity. He boards on Capitol Hill and while he prides himself upon his disregard for little things, “little things” are a source of the greatest anoyance to him. Directly over his lodging a Russian and his wife have taken up their abode. She is an Artist. He is a refugee, a sort of broken down grandee. He tramps the floor at night over Chapmans head. Chapman expostulates, the Russian possits. The Russian is otherwise anoying, and Chapman is in great tribulation. He says if he should be found dead in that house some morning He wants the Coronors verdict to be “Died of a Russian Bear.”

December 20, 1864

Washington Dec 20th/64

No news from Sherman (officialy) as yet as to his taking Savannah but we consider it as good as ours. He has got to the coast with very little opposition, and with very little loss after his 300 Miles March. It is the greatest feat of the War. He has shown himself (in my opinion) the first Gen'l of the age. Thomas has defeated Hood at Nashville Tenn, making very important captures of Prisoners and Artillery. A great Expedition has left Fortress Monroe by Water (it is supposed for Willmington N.C.). Some 65 Gun Boats and Armed Vessels with 590 guns of the heaviest calibre. It is said to be the strongest fleet that ever sailed from any port taking into consideration the character of the ordnance and the “Iron Clads” and “Monitors.” The Capture of Willmington is expected. Admiral Porter Com[man]ds the fleet, Genl Butler the Military. 10,000 men on Transports.

December 25, 1864

Dec 25th 1864

We get Shermans official Dispatch this morning. He has taken Savannah without a fight. The Rebel Army escaped. Large Stores of all kinds, near 200 Cannon and 25000 Bales of Cotton fell into our hands. Charleston and Willmington must follow soon, and then I think that Sherman will have to come and take Richmond if we take it very soon. Genl Grant is dogged and stuborn and persistent and uses “brute force” to do all that he does. He looses too many men. He does not posess the Military talent, the comprehensive brain of Sherman, the “Great Flanker.” When Grant took Vicksburgh and won his most important victori[e]s He had Sherman with him. How much his success was owing to that fact time may yet determine. Sherman stands far above Grant now in the estimation of the Country and the World.

January 1, 1865

January 1st 1865

“New Years” has passed off very pleasantly. There has been a great deal of “Calling” and the City has been full of people. There was a great rush at the Presidents House. I went the “rounds” calling upon most of the Heads of Departments. I noticed a great contrast betwen this “New Years” and any previous one for the past three years, four years ago there was a solemn stillness, a burthensome weight hanging upon the minds of all, a fearful forboding of Evil, a dread of the future. It was but little better three years or two years ago, doubt and anxiety for the future and horror and dismay at the terrible war oppressed all. Even one year ago we could scarcely see any light. Today all are in good spirits, but still there is many a tear and many a sigh for the lost ones.

April 1, 1865

April 1st 1865

Genl Sherman reached North Carolina having marched his Army from Savannah through the heart of South Carolina and sweeping a road about forty miles wide pretty Clean taking Columbia (the Capital) and other important places. Charleston surrendered when Sherman Struck its communications a hundred miles distant. He had no fighting to do till he reached the vicinity of Joe Johnsons Army in N.C. They had some sharp work at Goldsborough and at one or two other places. More hard fighting is expected there soon. It is said that Genl Grant is moving, if so we Shall have warm work.

April 3, 1865

April 3rd

Hurrah!! Richmond is taken and Genl Lee in full retreat. There has been some terrible fighting but it all seems to be going on well. Mr Lincoln is down there and in constant communication with Genl Grant. He is at City Point. Lee is being pressed hard by Genl Grant. Genl Phil Sheridan is the “War dog.”

April 6, 1865

April 6th 1865

Mr Lincoln has been in Richmond. Near half of the City has been destroyed by fire by the Rebels themselves as they evacuated it. Large numbers of prisoners have been captured by Sheridan, Genl Ewell and his Corps, some seven thousand.

April 9, 1865

April 9th

Genl Lee has surrendered to Genl Grant with his whole Army!! Mr Lincoln has returned to Washington as in fine Spirits at the prospect of a speedy peace. It is thought that Johnson and the other rebel Genls will give up now that Lee has surrendered.

April 14, 1865

April 14th ½ past 10 o'clock P.M.

O, fatal day. O, noble Victim. Treason has done its worst. The President has been Assassinated. It has just been announced at my door that he was shot a half hour ago at Fords Theatre. Is it possible? I have just come from near the scene, it is too True. 11 o'clock P.M.

April 30, 1865

April 30th 1865

This has been a most eventful month. The most eventful in the History of our Country. We have seen during this month the complete crushing out of the “Great rebellion” by a series of masterly Military achievements. The occupation of the Rebel Capitol by our troops. The surrender of Genl Lee with his Army near Richmond, and the surrender of Genl Johnson and his Army in North Carolina, and above all in importance which has occured in the World during this month, The President of the United States has been assassinated. Abraham Lincoln, the good and kind hearted, was Shot while sitting in his Box at Fords Theatre on the night of the 14th Int at about half past ten O'clock. Mr Lincoln had been in the habit of attending the Theatre occasionaly, perhaps once in four or six weeks, as a relaxation from the arduous duties of his position and constant mental exertion. On this occasion he went rather reluctantly. But it had been published in the Bills that Himself and Genl Grant

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would be present, and Genl Grant having left the City in the evening train for Phila, the President said that he did not “wish the people to be disappointed” and so went with his Lady arriving about ½ past 8. Miss Harris (daughter of Hon Ira Harris) and Maj Rathbone of Albany were also in the same Box, which was a double one, two being thrown into one. This Box was in the 2nd Tier and entered from the Dress circle through a narrow corridor some three feet wide and eight or ten long. There was a door at the dress circle end and at the other end there were two doors, one for each Box but now the two Boxes being thrown into one, one of the doors was closed. The other was open, and all of them unguarded. The assassin J Wilkes Booth had made his arrangements in the most deliberate manner (probably during that day). He had fixed a bar across the door leading into the dress circle and had cut a hole through the closed door leading to the Box, which enabled him

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to see the exact position of the President and others in the Box without being seen himself. At about ½ past 10, he entered the corridor from the Dress circle, bared the door to prevent any one from entering, examined the position of Mr Lincoln through the hole in the closed door. Then entered the Box behind all who were there (as they were looking toward the stage) and standing within three or four feet of Mr Lincoln, Shot him in the back of the head. The ball entering about two inches from the left ear near the base of the skull and lodging in the brain about two inches back of the right eye. His head was probably inclined forward at the time. The Murderer rushed to the front of the Box with a dagger in his hand. Major Rathbone caught his coat but Booth struck him on the arm with the dagger wounding him severely, which compelled him to let go his hold. Booth vaulted over the front of the Box and as he did so exclaimed “Sic Semper Tyranis” (Thus To Tyrants). As he Jumped from the box his spur cau[gh]t in the flag and as he struck the

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Stage he came to a crouching position from the effect of the concussion, his hands striking the floor but he recovered himself in a moment and flourishing his dagger he strode across the Stage some forty feet in sight of the spectators and past some of the actors, and reaching the back door which opens into a lane, he mounted a fleet horse and escaped. The lane enters F St betwen 9th & 10 Sts. The audience was paralized for some seconds, but rushed on to the Stage. A Surgeon was called for and Charles S Taft a Surgeon being present was lifted up from the Stage to the Box by those present. Before this the bar had been removed by Maj Rathbone and several men had reached the Box. When Chas reached the Box the President was lying upon the floor. Water and stimulants were used immediately but without avail in attempts to revive him. He was taken up and carried from the Theatre to the House opposite in

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about fifteen minutes after he was shot. A Dr Leale from Armory Square Hospital was the first Surgeon in the box. But Chas did not know that there was any Surgeon but himself present until the President was removed from the Theatre. Chas had charge of him until Dr Stone (the Presidents family Physician) arrived which was half an hour after he was placed on a bed at the House of Mr Peterson, opposite. When the shot was fired Mrs Lincoln was sitting near her husband with her hand on his knee. She says she saw the flash and heard the report of the pistol, thinking it was in some way connected with the the Play. She leaned forward to see what it was, and then looked to Mr Lincoln to see where he was looking. He was sitting with his head droped down and eyes shut. She was not alarmed at this, he sometimes held his head in that way when in deep thought, but she put her hand on his forehead and he not stirring she put it on the back

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of his head and feeling it wet she immediately withdrew it covered with blood. She then screamed and that is the last she remembered that took place in the Theatre. She says, as she put her hand on his head she recollects that something suddenly brushed past her and rubbing off her Shawl. It was Booth as he jumped from the Box. The President made no noise, nor attempted to speak, nor Stirred a limb after he was shot, nor was he conscious for one moment from that time until he died. When his skin was touched or his hand was taken, there was a slight quiver or tremor of the muscles, but that was all. Mustard paste was applied nearly all over the body and stimulants were given as long as he could swallow in hopes to revive him but entirely without avail. His pulse ceased to beat at 22 minutes past Seven. Chas had his hand on his heart, he said it fluttered or trilled for 10 seconds longer. It was the opinion of the Surgeons that the wound would have

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killed most men instantly, or in a very few minutes. But Mr Lincoln had so much vitality that he lived nearly nine hours. There were four Surgeons in immediate or active attendance. Dr Stone, The Surgeon Genl Dr Barnes, The Assistant Surgeon Genl Dr Crane and Charles. Some others were present whose services were not required. Most of the members of the Cabinet were there all night. Chief Justice Chase and other distinguished men. Mr Senator Sumner with Robert Lincoln leaning on his shoulder near the head of the bed. Sec'y Stanton was active in giving directions and writing dispatches all night. Genl Meigs Stood at the door to keep out all who were not wanted or to see that the room was not crowded. The room is at the end of the entrance Hall about 9 feet by 15, with two windows and three doors, one door entering from the Hall, one at the left as you enter, opening to an open porch or piazza, and the other at the farther end of the room, opening into another small room from which stairs decended to

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to [sic] the Basement. Some few individuals came in to the room through that door clandestinely. Mrs Lincoln occupied a room near by with some of her friends who were there. She went in frequently to see the President with Doct Gurley (The family Pastor) who had been sent for about 3 O'clock. She was not in the room when he died. Robert Lincoln was there and Dr Gurley, the two private Secretaries of the President Nicolay and Hay. Upon one occasion when Mrs L went in and saw her husband she fainted and was carried out insensible. It was thought best for her not to be there when he died. Dr Gurley prayed by the bedside of the President when he first arrived (at 3 o'clock). Then went into the room where Mrs Lincoln was and prayed with her, and remained with her most of the time, accompanying her and supporting her into the room of the dying President when she visited it. After the death Dr Gurley who was standing near Mr Stanton said shall we have any religious exercises here

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or elsewhere now? Yes said Mr Stanton offer Prayer ________ now and here. For the last half hour before the death, the utmost stillness had prevailed in the room, not a word, not a whisper was heard. The President of the United States dying, surrounded by his Cabinet and many of the first men in the Nation standing like statues around the bed presented a scene for an artist seldom equaled for solemn grandeur. It is to be hoped that it will yet be transfered to Canvass. After the President died Dr Gurley went to Mrs L and told her “the President is dead.” O - why did you not let me know? Why did you not tell me? “Your friends thought it was not best. You must be resigned to the will of God. You must be calm and trust in God and in your friends.” She soon after left, with Dr G for her Home. She was asked during the night if her son “Tad” (Thaddeus) (a boy about twelve years old) should be sent for. “O, my poor “Taddy” what will become of him? O do not send for him, his violent grief would disturb the House.” When they reached the Presidents house “Tad” met them on the Portico. “Where is my Pa? Where

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is my Pa? He kept repeating the question till they got into the room of Mrs Lincoln. He had heard that his Pa had been shot but evidently expected him when his mother came. He was very much excited and alarmed but had not thought that his Pa could be dead. “Taddy” your Pa is dead” said Dr Gurley. He was not prepared for this. He screamed in an agony of grief “O what shall I do? What shall I do? My Brother is dead. My Father is dead. O what shall I do? What will become of me? O what shall I do? O mother you will not die will you. O don't you die Ma. You wont die will you Mother? If you die I shall be all alone. O dont die Ma.” Dr Gurley said that up to that time he himself had not shed a tear, but he could not witness “Tads” grief unmoved and the Tears flowed freely. He said, when I got back to my own house at about 10 o'clock that morning, “I felt as though I had been engaged all night in a terrible Battle and had but just strength enough left to drag myself off the field.”

May 20, 1865

May 20th 1865

The Trial of the assassins is now in progress at the old Penitentiary (near the Arsenal) where rooms have been fitted up for the Court which is a Military Commission. Genl David Hunter is President and Joseph Holt Judge Advocate. The Court is trying eight persons who are accused of being actors in the Murder, and attack on Mr Seward, or of complicity with the assassins. Mrs Suratt, Paine, Azterot, Herold, Spangler, Saml Arnold, Dr Saml Mudd, and one other, McLaughlin. The trial is public and the proceedings are reported and published in the papers every day. The trial commenced a week ago and the testimony of the Witnesses is of absorbing interest to the whole country. The Prisoners have the best of Counsel and will have a fair trial. J Wilkes Booth the assassinator of the President was Shot before capture and lived but a few hours. It was not far from Port Royal, V.A. Herold was taken then.

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May 20th 1865

The “Army of the Potomac” and Genl Shermans Army and in fact all the Soldiers that could be readily got together are now assembling here for a Grand Review which is to take place next week Tuesday and Wednesday, 23rd and 24th Ints. Some thirty Major Genls are now in the City and Brigadiers without number. President Andrew Johnson two or three weeks ago offered a reward of $100,000 for the capture of Jefferson Davis. (He is implicated in the conspiracy to assassinate the President). He was captured by some Cavalry about a week ago in Georgia and is now confined at Fortress Monroe. It is expected that His trial will come off soon. Gov Vance of N.C. is now a prisoner in this City. None of Jeff Davis Cabinet have as yet been captured except the PM Genl Reagan. They are seeking safty in flight.

May 22, 1865

Monday May 22nd 1864 [1865]

This forenoon I went down to the Old Penitentiary and visited the Military Court in session there trying the conspirators. I had a fair opportunity to view the prisoners who all sat on a raised platform which ran across across one side of the room. The room was not very large perhaps 25 or 30 feet square. There was nothing very striking about any of the prisoners excepting Paine, the one who attacked Mr Seward. He is a splendid specimen of a Man (physicaly 6 feet 1½ inches) but his countenance indicated the desperado which he probably is. Herold looks rather weak minded or silly. Azterot like a low villin. Spangler has an Italian look. Dr Mudd is a very ordinary looking man with red hair or (rather Sandy hair and beard). Saml Arnold does not look like a bad man. [Mc]Laughlin might be one. Mrs Suratt sat at the end of the row by herself [draped?] in deep black and veiled. Genl Hancock was there as a spectator.

May 24, 1865

Washington Wednesday May 24th 1865

Yesterday and today have been “great days” in Washington. The great Military Review closed this afternoon. The Civil Offices of the Govt have all been closed during the two days, and but little else has been done in the City but looking at Soldiers marching through the Avenue. The Army of the Potomac, Genl Meade. The Army of Tennessee and of Georgia, Genl Sherman, were reviewed. Yesterday the Army of the Potomac, and today Shermans, the whole numbering about One hundred and Sixty thousand. It took Six hours Each day for them to March by. In front of the White House a Stand was erected (covered) for the Prest and Members of the Cabinet, Genls of the Army (a few only) and the Diplomatic Corps. I succeeded (with Mr John Sherry of S[ag]. H[arbor].) in getting very near the Stand and had a good view of those on it who attracted particular attention. The President sat near the middle of the

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front seat with the Sec'y of War and Genl Grant on his on his [sic] right hand. On the other side of him sat Genl Mead, Slocum & Sherman, the latter at the end of the seat. His Army was passing and He only Stood up and rcd the Salute of the officers. Yesterday Genl Grant rcd the Salute of the Army of the Potomac. While we were there today, there was quite an intervil of time betwen the passing of one Division and another. At such a time the crowd would rush up before the Stand, filling the Street by thousands, and would call for some of the Genls, or for the “Mr Stanton,” or “President Johnson.” (Many of the Spectators did not know which was which as they sat). When one was called he would rise up and bow and the crowd would cheer. I presume that not one half of the Soldiers now in the Service were at this Review. One whole Corps (the 6th) of the Army of the Potomac are Still on duty in Virginia. Other Corps were not here.

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May 24th Continued

Genl Sherman and Mr Stanton (the Sec'y of War) are not on good terms as was proved today on the “Stand” of the great Review. When Genl Sherman came upon the Stand (before the troops had begun to pass) The President and the other Genls and the Secretaries who were present greeted him very cordialy, each steping forward and shaking hands with him. Mr Stanton offered his hand the same as the rest and Genl Sherman slightly bowed and refused to take it. The trouble grew out of the terms which Sherman agreed to in the case of the proposed surrender of Genl Johnson in North Carolina. But the Grand Review will long be remembered as the most magnificent spectacle of the kind ever witnessed on the continent. Standing at the Treasury one could see near a mile and a quarter (to the Capitol Gate). This space through the Ave was filled for Six hours each day with a moving mass of men with polished gun and gleaming bayonet and all the other branches

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of the Service. First came (yesterday) fifteen thousand Cavalry in a dense mass, the officers (mostly) on Splendid horses (Genl Custer on a wild unmanagable one) but generaly the officers and the Staffs rode horses which had been trained to the Service, but there was a great deal of prancing and dashing to and fro of officers on the Avenue. The Sidewalks, the Doors, and windows and the House tops were crowded with spectators who were cheering constantly as some favorite officer or Regt was passing but more than all when some of the “Colors” blackened and tattered and hanging in shreds from the Staff was held aloft by the proud color bearers. The Artillery of each Division followed in the rear. In Shermans Army (today) hundreds of negroes with axes and shovels on their shoulders marched after each Corps. In the rear of all came the “Bummers” or foragers, without any pretension to order but gave on[e] something of an idea of a Caravan of the Desert, only there were no Camels. They were black and white. -

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Many mounted, mostly on mules, some on Jacks, and a few on poneys. Others walking, leading their mules which were loaded down with every conceivable thing in the way of baggage or cooking utensil. Huge bags and Bundles tied on and across the back of the beast. (I wondered whether the contents of some of those bags might not have once graced some of the palatial Mansion[s] at the south, or even the persons of some of the fair dames of the “Palmetto State.” Besides this kind of loading there were living specimens of the country which the Army had passed through in the form of cats and dogs, Coons, opposums, fighting Cocks and other fowls, all perched on the backs of the mules (or rather on the bags and bundles). Then the frying pans, the kettles, the buckets, and tin dishes garnished the sides hanging nearly to the ground. These were the camp followers, the “Bummers,” and numbered hundreds.

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Some females rode in the Review yesterday and today who I was told had been “through the War.” Some officers and soldiers wives and some “Daughters of the Regiment,” who had followed their Brothers or Fathers or husbands, and shared their dangers, taking care of the wounded, and nursing the sick. One of this Class I am acquainted with, but she left the Army of the Potomac some three months ago, Miss Clara Barton of Worcester Mass. She has been known and called the “Angel of the Battlefield.” She was in Fredericksburgh during the terrible “Burnside Battle” there having crossed the River on the Pontoon Bridge while the Rebels were shelling it. She was there again last summer when the City was filled with our wounded from the Battle fields of the “Wilderness.” She afterwards went with the Army to Petersburgh and administered to the wounded in the field Hospitals being frequently under fire in carrying relief to the Wounded on the field. I am told that she seemed on such occasions totaly insensible to danger. She is highly educated and refined, and few ladies ar[e] as inteligent as She is.

May 30, 1865

Washington May 30th 1865

The achievements of the Country during the past six or seven months, if we take a rapid glance at them, are truly astonishing. A catalogue merely of the striking Military events during that period would almost fill a volume. Beginning with the time that Thomas almost annihilated the army of the Rebel Genl Hood at Franklin and Nashville. Then following Genl Sherman in his daring plunge into the heart of Georgia. The Storming of Fort McAllister, and the Capture of Savannah, almost without a Siege, with all its Wealth and vast Armaments. Then sweeping through South Carolina like a desolating Tornado. Compelling the Surrender of Charleston tho not within a hundred miles of it. Capturing the Capital of the State without a Battle (Columbia). Entering North Carolina, defeating the Rebels under Johnston at Bentonville and Averysboro and capturing the Capital of the State Raleigh and to close this successful march receives the surrender of Johnston and his Army.

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During this time, the month of March, Genl Terry captures Fort Fisher at the mouth of the Cap[e] Fear River (one of the most desperate and heroic acts of the War). Thus compelling the surrender of Willmington a few days afterwards. During this time also Schofield was fighting betwen Wilmington and Raleigh around Kinston and penetrating to Goldsboro. It is now the latter part of March and Genl Grants Movements begin to absorb the attention of the Country. The rebels surprise and capture Fort Steadman (one of Grants line of Forts) but dearly did it cost them for they were easily driven away. And then began those decisive movements and series of splendid victories which compelled the surrender of Petersburgh and Richmond and finaly the Capture of Genl Lee and his whole army, and the Great Rebellion was virtualy ended. But during this time again, Genl Canby was forcing his way into Mobile. Genl Wilson is “riding free” with a Cloud of horsemen over Alabama and Georgia

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scattering all opposition, capturing Selma, Montgomery, and Macon. Stoneman is dashing through Eastern Tennessee and N Carolina, riding at will and driving all before him. Then Taylor and Kirby Smith Surrender which embrace about the last of the rebel forces. But during this period of Six or Seven months, the realy most important events have not been yet mentioned. In the midst of a desolating War, in the smoke and heat of Battle as it were, There has been a quiet Presidential Election and Inauguration, with all its usual attendant excitements. A Draft of three hundred thousand men has been ordered, and the men raised. The Government Credit has been increased at home and abroad a hundred fold and Gold has fallen a hundred percent. Our great and Good President has been assassinated. The assassin Killed. Jefferson Davis has been captured and impeached for Treason. The grand Review & the Trial of the conspirators. Tearfully - and Joyfully have we witnessed these Events.

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