Saturday, December 13, 1862
Nathaniel Caverly Jr. was engaged in the night assault of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment and survived the hellish encounter without injury. He undoubtedly was grateful to God that he was spared this day.1
References:
1Compiled service record, Nathaniel Caverly, Pvt., Co. F, 13th New Hampshire Infantry; Carded Records, Volunteer Organizations, Civil War; Records of the Adjutant General's Office, 1780s-1917, Record Group 94; National Archives, Washington, D.C.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Battle of Fredericksburg - Day 3
Saturday, December 13, 1862
General Ambrose Burnside ordered General William Franklin's Left Grand Division to strike Confederate Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson south of Fredericksburg, and ordered General Edwin "Bull" Sumner's Right Grand Division and General Joseph Hooker's Center Grand Division to assault Confederate General James Longstreet at Marye's Heights.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire was held in reserve along the banks of the Rappahannock River, about a mile away from the combat at Marye's Heights. All day long they could hear the thunderous pounding of artillery and gunfire and were aware that a fierce battle was raging. At 4:00 P.M., a report arose among the men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire that they were next in line for battle. As nighttime was about to fall, many of the men dismissed the report as an idle rumor. Thirty minutes later, the order resounded through their ranks: "Attention! Take Arms, Right Face, March!"
As darkness fell the Thirteenth New Hampshire approached the long, open field in front of Marye's Heights and witnessed the results of the day's terrible battle, a field strewn with the bodies of the dead and wounded. The Thirteenth formed a line of battle near the embankment of the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad, approximately four-hundred yards southwest of the stone wall at the base of Marye's Heights. Major Edward Jardine, commander of the Ninth New York regiment, assisted Colonel Aaron Stevens, the commander of the Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment, in leading the charge. Major Jardine, in a clear, strong voice, gave the order to attack: "Thirteenth New Hampshire, you love your country, you are brave men, and you came out here to fight for her – now, go in! Forward!"
The Thirteenth New Hampshire charged in the darkness toward an unseen enemy. Suddenly the flashing of gunfire from the Confederate stronghold at the stone wall illuminated their position. They were within twenty-five yards of the enemy line, so close that they could smell the acrid smoke of the rifles firing upon them and see the strained expressions on the faces of the Confederate soldiers. As the Thirteenth New Hampshire returned fire their position was revealed to the enemy, placing them in extreme peril. They were forced to retreat to avoid the annihilation of their ranks. The Thirteenth New Hampshire reformed their line at the railroad embankment and retreated to their camp along the Rappahannock River.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 45-62.
General Ambrose Burnside ordered General William Franklin's Left Grand Division to strike Confederate Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson south of Fredericksburg, and ordered General Edwin "Bull" Sumner's Right Grand Division and General Joseph Hooker's Center Grand Division to assault Confederate General James Longstreet at Marye's Heights.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire was held in reserve along the banks of the Rappahannock River, about a mile away from the combat at Marye's Heights. All day long they could hear the thunderous pounding of artillery and gunfire and were aware that a fierce battle was raging. At 4:00 P.M., a report arose among the men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire that they were next in line for battle. As nighttime was about to fall, many of the men dismissed the report as an idle rumor. Thirty minutes later, the order resounded through their ranks: "Attention! Take Arms, Right Face, March!"
As darkness fell the Thirteenth New Hampshire approached the long, open field in front of Marye's Heights and witnessed the results of the day's terrible battle, a field strewn with the bodies of the dead and wounded. The Thirteenth formed a line of battle near the embankment of the Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad, approximately four-hundred yards southwest of the stone wall at the base of Marye's Heights. Major Edward Jardine, commander of the Ninth New York regiment, assisted Colonel Aaron Stevens, the commander of the Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment, in leading the charge. Major Jardine, in a clear, strong voice, gave the order to attack: "Thirteenth New Hampshire, you love your country, you are brave men, and you came out here to fight for her – now, go in! Forward!"
The Thirteenth New Hampshire charged in the darkness toward an unseen enemy. Suddenly the flashing of gunfire from the Confederate stronghold at the stone wall illuminated their position. They were within twenty-five yards of the enemy line, so close that they could smell the acrid smoke of the rifles firing upon them and see the strained expressions on the faces of the Confederate soldiers. As the Thirteenth New Hampshire returned fire their position was revealed to the enemy, placing them in extreme peril. They were forced to retreat to avoid the annihilation of their ranks. The Thirteenth New Hampshire reformed their line at the railroad embankment and retreated to their camp along the Rappahannock River.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 45-62.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Battle of Fredericksburg - Day 2
Friday, December 12, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire bivouacked at Caroline Street during the day and evening, witnessing the destruction of the city from the Union artillery the previous day. The Union Army remained in a vulnerable position, as the men deployed along the streets of Fredericksburg with their backs to the Rappahannock River. During the day Confederate artillery sent barrages of solid shot and railroad rails into the Union line, creating additional damage to the shattered buildings. The Confederate artillery did not utilize shells as ammunition to spare the city further damage by fire.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 41-42.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire bivouacked at Caroline Street during the day and evening, witnessing the destruction of the city from the Union artillery the previous day. The Union Army remained in a vulnerable position, as the men deployed along the streets of Fredericksburg with their backs to the Rappahannock River. During the day Confederate artillery sent barrages of solid shot and railroad rails into the Union line, creating additional damage to the shattered buildings. The Confederate artillery did not utilize shells as ammunition to spare the city further damage by fire.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 41-42.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Battle of Fredericksburg - Day 1
Thursday, December 11, 1862
At 8:30 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire formed a line of battle near the Phillips House, the headquarters of General Edwin Sumner of the Right Grand Division. From this location the Thirteenth New Hampshire witnessed the crossing of the Rappahannock River by the Seventh Michigan and the Twentieth Massachusetts regiments under heavy fire at the Upper Pontoon Crossing. Confederate sharpshooters fired volleys into the advancing Union troops as they crossed. In order to assist the crossing General Ambrose Burnside ordered the artillery to launch barrages on the town. After a long day of hand-to-hand street fighting the roads of Fredericksburg were cleared for the Union advance and the town was under the control of the Federal troops.
At 5:00 P.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire moved at the double-quick as darkness fell along the Falmouth side of the river for a distance of approximately a mile and one-half and crossed the Rappahannock River at the Middle Pontoon Crossing. Around 9:00 P.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire stacks arms and bivouacs on the west side of Caroline Street. Colonel Rush Hawkins First Brigade, of which the Thirteenth New Hampshire is a part, holds the lower part of Fredericksburg for the evening.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 36-39.
At 8:30 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire formed a line of battle near the Phillips House, the headquarters of General Edwin Sumner of the Right Grand Division. From this location the Thirteenth New Hampshire witnessed the crossing of the Rappahannock River by the Seventh Michigan and the Twentieth Massachusetts regiments under heavy fire at the Upper Pontoon Crossing. Confederate sharpshooters fired volleys into the advancing Union troops as they crossed. In order to assist the crossing General Ambrose Burnside ordered the artillery to launch barrages on the town. After a long day of hand-to-hand street fighting the roads of Fredericksburg were cleared for the Union advance and the town was under the control of the Federal troops.
At 5:00 P.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire moved at the double-quick as darkness fell along the Falmouth side of the river for a distance of approximately a mile and one-half and crossed the Rappahannock River at the Middle Pontoon Crossing. Around 9:00 P.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire stacks arms and bivouacs on the west side of Caroline Street. Colonel Rush Hawkins First Brigade, of which the Thirteenth New Hampshire is a part, holds the lower part of Fredericksburg for the evening.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 36-39.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Arrival at Falmouth and Preparation for Battle
Wednesday, December 10, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march and at noon arrived at the Phillips House, the headquarters of General Edwin "Bull" Sumner, in Falmouth. The Thirteenth New Hampshire officially joined the Army of the Potomac, assigned to Colonel Rush Hawkins' First Brigade in General George Getty's Third Division of the Ninth Army Corps of General Sumner's Right Grand Division. The afternoon is spent in preparation for battle in the morning. As a consequence of preparation the Thirteenth New Hampshire is supplied with three-days rations and sixty rounds of ammunition.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 32-34.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march and at noon arrived at the Phillips House, the headquarters of General Edwin "Bull" Sumner, in Falmouth. The Thirteenth New Hampshire officially joined the Army of the Potomac, assigned to Colonel Rush Hawkins' First Brigade in General George Getty's Third Division of the Ninth Army Corps of General Sumner's Right Grand Division. The afternoon is spent in preparation for battle in the morning. As a consequence of preparation the Thirteenth New Hampshire is supplied with three-days rations and sixty rounds of ammunition.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 32-34.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Resuming their March to Fredericksburg
Tuesday, December 9, 1862
After a delay of two cold, frosty days huddled around campfires at Acquia Landing, the Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march to Fredericksburg at 2:00 P.M., advancing six miles and camping at Brooks Station for the evening.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 32-34.
After a delay of two cold, frosty days huddled around campfires at Acquia Landing, the Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march to Fredericksburg at 2:00 P.M., advancing six miles and camping at Brooks Station for the evening.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 32-34.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Ferry to Acquia Landing
Saturday, December 6, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment arose this cold and clear morning to find six inches of snow on the ground. They resumed their march at 10:00 A.M. and arrived at Liverpool Point by 11:30 A.M. to await ferry boats for passage across the Potomac River. They waited several hours in the cold before boarding the ferry at 6:00 P.M.. The Thirteenth New Hampshire arrived on the Virginia side of the Potomac at Acquia Landing at 8:30 P.M. and bivouacked for the evening in extremely cold weather. The temperature was so cold that the water in their canteens froze. Many of the men went hungry before retiring for the evening. Years later veterans of the Thirteenth New Hampshire declared that this bivouac was the toughest of the entire war.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 31-32.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment arose this cold and clear morning to find six inches of snow on the ground. They resumed their march at 10:00 A.M. and arrived at Liverpool Point by 11:30 A.M. to await ferry boats for passage across the Potomac River. They waited several hours in the cold before boarding the ferry at 6:00 P.M.. The Thirteenth New Hampshire arrived on the Virginia side of the Potomac at Acquia Landing at 8:30 P.M. and bivouacked for the evening in extremely cold weather. The temperature was so cold that the water in their canteens froze. Many of the men went hungry before retiring for the evening. Years later veterans of the Thirteenth New Hampshire declared that this bivouac was the toughest of the entire war.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 31-32.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
On the Road to Fredericksburg
Friday, December 5, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire marched at 8:30 A.M. in a steady rain which turned to heavy snow by early afternoon. Weather conditions forced the advancing troops to make evening camp near Liverpool Point at 2:00 P.M. The shelter tents afforded insufficient protection from the storm, and many of the men sought shelter in nearby farmhouses and barns.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 29-31.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire marched at 8:30 A.M. in a steady rain which turned to heavy snow by early afternoon. Weather conditions forced the advancing troops to make evening camp near Liverpool Point at 2:00 P.M. The shelter tents afforded insufficient protection from the storm, and many of the men sought shelter in nearby farmhouses and barns.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 29-31.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
On the Road to Fredericksburg
Thursday, December 4, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire commenced to march at 9:30 A.M. and advanced twelve miles for the day, making evening camp by 5:30 P.M. at Cedar Hill, six miles west of Port Tobacco.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company ,1888), 28-29.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire commenced to march at 9:30 A.M. and advanced twelve miles for the day, making evening camp by 5:30 P.M. at Cedar Hill, six miles west of Port Tobacco.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company ,1888), 28-29.
Monday, December 3, 2012
On the Road to Fredericksburg
Wednesday, December 3, 1862
At 10:00 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire began their daily march. Passing through Piscataway they made evening camp six miles north of Port Tobacco by 5:00 P.M.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 28.
At 10:00 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire began their daily march. Passing through Piscataway they made evening camp six miles north of Port Tobacco by 5:00 P.M.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 28.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
On the Road to Fredericksburg
Tuesday, December 2, 1862
At 8:00 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march southward. At 6:00 P.M. they bivouacked near Piscataway, again covering fifteen miles for the day.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 28.
At 8:00 A.M. the Thirteenth New Hampshire resumed their march southward. At 6:00 P.M. they bivouacked near Piscataway, again covering fifteen miles for the day.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 28.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Farewell to Camp Casey
Monday, December 1, 1862
Along with the First Brigade, the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment broke camp at noon and formed in line. At 2:00 P.M. they marched over the Long Bridge into Washington D.C. and crossed the Potomac River into Maryland. They made camp at Unionville by 7:00 P.M., covering fifteen miles for the day.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 27.
Along with the First Brigade, the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment broke camp at noon and formed in line. At 2:00 P.M. they marched over the Long Bridge into Washington D.C. and crossed the Potomac River into Maryland. They made camp at Unionville by 7:00 P.M., covering fifteen miles for the day.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 27.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Letters from the Front - Nathaniel Caverly Jr.
Sunday, November 30, 1862
Nathaniel Caverly Jr. wrote a hasty letter home to his father, informing him that he would be marching to the front on the next day at noon. Nathaniel remarked that their destination was uncertain but that he believed it would be Richmond. Nathaniel ended the letter poignantly by reassuring his father: "Do not be worried for fear we shall go into battle for I dont think that we shall. I am well and rugged as ever I was and stand most anything I guess."1
References:
1Alan C. Phillips, Soldiers in My Family: Caverlys and Murrays 1754-1865. (DePere, Wisconsin: A.C. Phillips, 1993.), 81-82.
Nathaniel Caverly Jr. wrote a hasty letter home to his father, informing him that he would be marching to the front on the next day at noon. Nathaniel remarked that their destination was uncertain but that he believed it would be Richmond. Nathaniel ended the letter poignantly by reassuring his father: "Do not be worried for fear we shall go into battle for I dont think that we shall. I am well and rugged as ever I was and stand most anything I guess."1
References:
1Alan C. Phillips, Soldiers in My Family: Caverlys and Murrays 1754-1865. (DePere, Wisconsin: A.C. Phillips, 1993.), 81-82.
To Fredericksburg
Sunday, November 30, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received orders to strike tents and prepare to march at noon the following day. Their destination is Fredericksburg, where Confederate General Robert E. Lee is prepared for an attack as Union General Ambrose Burnside awaits pontoon bridges to cross the Rappahannock River.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 26.
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received orders to strike tents and prepare to march at noon the following day. Their destination is Fredericksburg, where Confederate General Robert E. Lee is prepared for an attack as Union General Ambrose Burnside awaits pontoon bridges to cross the Rappahannock River.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 26.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
McClellan Replaced by Burnside
Friday, November 14, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received the news of the replacement of General George McClellan with General Ambrose Burnside as the commander of the Army of the Potomac.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 23.
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received the news of the replacement of General George McClellan with General Ambrose Burnside as the commander of the Army of the Potomac.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 23.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Author's Message
On this observance of Veterans Day, please take some time today to remember and honor veterans of all wars. Thank you.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
First Snowstorm
Friday, November 7, 1862
After several days of drills in markedly cold weather, a severe northeast snowstorm drops six inches of snow on Camp Colby.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 22.
After several days of drills in markedly cold weather, a severe northeast snowstorm drops six inches of snow on Camp Colby.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 22.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Settling in at Camp Casey
Monday, November 3, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth settle in at Camp Casey, receiving new tents. The expectation is to spend the winter here. Nearly a hundred men are reporting sick daily. The regiment receives meager rations of salt pork, salt beef, bread, and the less-frequent potatoes or rice. The men of the Thirteenth are eager for news from home, and crowd the Chaplain's tent whenever mail arrives in camp.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 21.
The men of the Thirteenth settle in at Camp Casey, receiving new tents. The expectation is to spend the winter here. Nearly a hundred men are reporting sick daily. The regiment receives meager rations of salt pork, salt beef, bread, and the less-frequent potatoes or rice. The men of the Thirteenth are eager for news from home, and crowd the Chaplain's tent whenever mail arrives in camp.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 21.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Camp Casey
Saturday, November 1, 1862
At noon the Thirteenth receives orders to strike camp and prepare to march. At 1:00 PM the Thirteenth begins a march of five miles to Fairfax Seminary, making camp on a hill a mile beyond the Seminary. The new camp is named Camp Casey for their commanding officer, General Silas Casey.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 20.
At noon the Thirteenth receives orders to strike camp and prepare to march. At 1:00 PM the Thirteenth begins a march of five miles to Fairfax Seminary, making camp on a hill a mile beyond the Seminary. The new camp is named Camp Casey for their commanding officer, General Silas Casey.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 20.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Mustered for Pay
Friday, October 31, 1862
After a cold and rainy week the weather finally clears. The Thirteenth New Hampshire is called for review and mustered for pay by Brigade Commander Colonel Dexter R. Wright.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company 1888), 19.
After a cold and rainy week the weather finally clears. The Thirteenth New Hampshire is called for review and mustered for pay by Brigade Commander Colonel Dexter R. Wright.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company 1888), 19.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Letters from the Front - Nathaniel Caverly Jr.
Saturday, October 25, 1862
Nathaniel Caverly Jr. wrote his first letter home to his father from Camp Chase, letting him know that he was well and that he enjoyed camp life. Nathaniel mentioned that he had suffered from dysentary but was fighting the ill effects by eating vegetables. He asked his father to send him a lead pencil and pencil holder to write letters, as the steel pen he had did not work. Nathaniel asked for all the news from home, stating "I want you to write me if it rains there write if it is cold there and if it is fair write how you are getting along with your harvesting how your crops are coming in and what you are going to sell and keep this winter and so forth."1
References:
1Alan C. Phillips, Soldiers in My Family: Caverlys and Murrays 1754-1865. (DePere, Wisconsin: A.C. Phillips, 1993.), 77-79.
Nathaniel Caverly Jr. wrote his first letter home to his father from Camp Chase, letting him know that he was well and that he enjoyed camp life. Nathaniel mentioned that he had suffered from dysentary but was fighting the ill effects by eating vegetables. He asked his father to send him a lead pencil and pencil holder to write letters, as the steel pen he had did not work. Nathaniel asked for all the news from home, stating "I want you to write me if it rains there write if it is cold there and if it is fair write how you are getting along with your harvesting how your crops are coming in and what you are going to sell and keep this winter and so forth."1
References:
1Alan C. Phillips, Soldiers in My Family: Caverlys and Murrays 1754-1865. (DePere, Wisconsin: A.C. Phillips, 1993.), 77-79.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Assistant Surgeon John Sullivan Joins the Regiment
Thursday, October 23, 1862
As the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment prepares for another move, Assistant Surgeon John Sullivan, who has served with the Second New Hampshire Regiment, joins the Thirteenth.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 16.
As the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment prepares for another move, Assistant Surgeon John Sullivan, who has served with the Second New Hampshire Regiment, joins the Thirteenth.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 16.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Passing the Test
Tuesday, October 21, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment is tested to see how quickly they can assemble, pack gear, and be ready for march. The Thirteenth completes the test in less than fifteen minutes.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 15.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire regiment is tested to see how quickly they can assemble, pack gear, and be ready for march. The Thirteenth completes the test in less than fifteen minutes.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 15.
Friday, October 19, 2012
Return from Picket Duty
Sunday, October 19, 1862
After two days of picket duty the men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire gather at Upton Hill for inspection, drills, and religious services. They receive orders to return to camp, leaving Upton Hill at 6:00 P.M. and returning to Camp Chase by 8:00 P.M. Exhausted and without tents, the men camp on the open ground in the freezing rain. Exposure to the elements begin to take their toll, as nearly one-hundred men report sick the next morning.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 14.
After two days of picket duty the men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire gather at Upton Hill for inspection, drills, and religious services. They receive orders to return to camp, leaving Upton Hill at 6:00 P.M. and returning to Camp Chase by 8:00 P.M. Exhausted and without tents, the men camp on the open ground in the freezing rain. Exposure to the elements begin to take their toll, as nearly one-hundred men report sick the next morning.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 14.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Picket Duty at Falls Church
Friday, October 17, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire had its first taste of military action early this morning, as the regiment arose before dawn and left camp at 7:00 A.M. with knapsacks, haversacks, and arms for Upton Hill, about two miles from Falls Church and fifteen miles from the Bull Run battlefield. Arriving at 11:30 A.M. two companies of the Thirteenth immediately deployed for picket duty beyond the earthwork defenses of Washington, while the remaining companies camped, mainly without tents, on open ground.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 13-14.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire had its first taste of military action early this morning, as the regiment arose before dawn and left camp at 7:00 A.M. with knapsacks, haversacks, and arms for Upton Hill, about two miles from Falls Church and fifteen miles from the Bull Run battlefield. Arriving at 11:30 A.M. two companies of the Thirteenth immediately deployed for picket duty beyond the earthwork defenses of Washington, while the remaining companies camped, mainly without tents, on open ground.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 13-14.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Adjusting to Camp Life
Thursday, October 16, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment, accommodating to camp life, end their first week at Camp Chase. A regimen of company and batallion drills, dress parades, and roll calls fills their day from sunrise to sunset. In addition to adjusting to the physical demands of their schedule they need to adjust to meager rations and the changeable Virginia autumn weather, with its warm days and cold evenings.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 11-13.
The men of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment, accommodating to camp life, end their first week at Camp Chase. A regimen of company and batallion drills, dress parades, and roll calls fills their day from sunrise to sunset. In addition to adjusting to the physical demands of their schedule they need to adjust to meager rations and the changeable Virginia autumn weather, with its warm days and cold evenings.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 11-13.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Camp Chase
Thursday, October 9, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth marched through the streets of Washington D.C. and made camp on open ground at Camp Chase, located one mile from Robert E. Lee's former home at Arlington House. Reporting to their commanding officer, General Silas Casey, and settling into their new camp the regiment prepared for a daily schedule of discipline and drills.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 10.
The men of the Thirteenth marched through the streets of Washington D.C. and made camp on open ground at Camp Chase, located one mile from Robert E. Lee's former home at Arlington House. Reporting to their commanding officer, General Silas Casey, and settling into their new camp the regiment prepared for a daily schedule of discipline and drills.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 10.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Arrival in Washington, D.C.
Wednesday, October 8, 1862
The men of the Thirteenth arrived in Baltimore at 6:00 A.M. Three hours later the regiment boarded railroad cars headed for Washington, D.C. and reached their destination by 9:00 P.M. The regiment spent an uncomfortable evening bivouacking in the rain on Capitol Hill.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 10.
The men of the Thirteenth arrived in Baltimore at 6:00 A.M. Three hours later the regiment boarded railroad cars headed for Washington, D.C. and reached their destination by 9:00 P.M. The regiment spent an uncomfortable evening bivouacking in the rain on Capitol Hill.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 10.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
En Route to War
Tuesday, October 7, 1862
After arriving at Jersey City early in the morning the regiment boarded railroad cars for Philadelphia. Reaching their destination by nightfall, the regiment ate their evening meal at Cooper's Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon. Following their meal the regiment marched through the city and boarded freight cars headed for Baltimore.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 9-10.
After arriving at Jersey City early in the morning the regiment boarded railroad cars for Philadelphia. Reaching their destination by nightfall, the regiment ate their evening meal at Cooper's Shop Volunteer Refreshment Saloon. Following their meal the regiment marched through the city and boarded freight cars headed for Baltimore.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 9-10.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Traveling South to War
Monday, October 6, 1862
The men of Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment boarded railroad cars at Concord Depot at 4:00 A.M. Leaving Concord at 7:00 A.M., they traveled south through Nashua and Worcester, Massachusetts, eventually arriving near Ledyard, Connecticut by 8:00 P.M. to board the steamer "City of Boston" en route to Jersey City.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 9.
The men of Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment boarded railroad cars at Concord Depot at 4:00 A.M. Leaving Concord at 7:00 A.M., they traveled south through Nashua and Worcester, Massachusetts, eventually arriving near Ledyard, Connecticut by 8:00 P.M. to board the steamer "City of Boston" en route to Jersey City.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 9.
Friday, October 5, 2012
On the Eve of Departure
Sunday, October 5, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment marched to Concord to receive their regimental colors. They returned to Camp Colby by evening, anticipating an early departure for war the next morning.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 6.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment marched to Concord to receive their regimental colors. They returned to Camp Colby by evening, anticipating an early departure for war the next morning.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 6.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Return from Furlough
Monday, September 29, 1862
The men of Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment returned to Camp Colby today after their four-day furlough at home with family and friends.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
The men of Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment returned to Camp Colby today after their four-day furlough at home with family and friends.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Goodbye to Loved Ones
Thursday, September 25, 1862
The Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received a furlough today to visit their families before leaving for the front. They were ordered to return to Camp Colby by Monday evening, September 29.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
The Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiment received a furlough today to visit their families before leaving for the front. They were ordered to return to Camp Colby by Monday evening, September 29.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Officers Mustered In
Tuesday, September 23, 1862
Receiving their uniforms on Monday, the field officers of the Thirteenth New Hampshire are mustered into service, completing the organization of the regiment.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
Receiving their uniforms on Monday, the field officers of the Thirteenth New Hampshire are mustered into service, completing the organization of the regiment.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 4.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Mustering In at Camp Colby
Saturday, September 20, 1862
The enlisted men of the regiment mustered in today at Camp Colby, near Concord. Among the enlisted was Private Nathaniel Caverly Jr. of Company F. The captain of Company F, Lewis Buzzell, was absent due to sickness. Captain Buzzell would not return to the regiment for nearly two months.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 3-4.
The enlisted men of the regiment mustered in today at Camp Colby, near Concord. Among the enlisted was Private Nathaniel Caverly Jr. of Company F. The captain of Company F, Lewis Buzzell, was absent due to sickness. Captain Buzzell would not return to the regiment for nearly two months.1
References:
1S. Millett Thompson, Thirteenth Regiment of New Hampshire Volunteer Infantry in the War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865 : A Diary Covering Three Years and a Day (Boston, Massachusetts: Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1888), 3-4.
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