EAGER, Charles H. Biography and Letters

April 27, 1861, Baltimore

To Brother Alfred.

Yours of the 20^th inst. was not received till last Thursday, being the first mail from the east since the brutal attack upon the Mass. Reg. by the Secession Mob of this city. Encouraged by men (?) who I suppose consider themselves among the first Citizens of Baltimore. I will not go into particulars as L has doubtless given you all of these in this. I can only say I hope it will never be my lot to witness a repetition of that scene- and farther to live under such a Sentiment as prevailed here for a week afterwards. For several days a "Union Man" did not dare avow his sentiment, it really seemed there were none to be found and the glorious old Stars & Stripes were no where to be seen, but in their stead, the flag of Maryland & the "Seven Stars & three Stripes". I was told to hide the U.S. flag that had been laying in the office for a few days "for fear some of the mob would see it". What we are coming to if a man is afraid to have the Stars & Stripes found in his possession?

I was told that all Northerners would be notified as fast as they were found out, so perhaps my time will come.

The young man (Lamb) who married Nancy G______s cousin, and his two brothers have had notice. Also Jos. Whitney.

Mr. DeYoung has discharged all his help but me and I expect to go board with him next week.

Now I would like to have some of the patriotic Baltimorians inform me what they have accomplished by all this trouble and expense, and I do really believe there are more troops in Washington today than there would have been had they not attacked the Mass boys. There has been several of their own men accidentally shot by the careless use of fire arms in the hands of the crowd.

The City are in a tight place and they know it too. They have armed the Mob and now their study is to dis-arm it, and not have it get the better of them in so doing.

(Sunday Morning)

Well, things do not look quite as war-like this morning as they did a week ago-citizens appear to be going to church without their guns- last Sunday they took them into their pews, and I presumed some of them had them cocked, if they were not in that condition themselves. I see by the papers this morning that Shermans Artillery is between here and Wilmington and are going through Baltimore – if so we are liable to have another fight.

The Stars & Stripes were raised on Federal Hill night before last, and in several other places, and the City authorities have isued an order that flags of all kind must be "taken in" during the session of the Legislature.

There was a party of Policeman sent to take down the Stars & Stripes, when one of them upon arriving at the spot drew his revolver and swore he would protect the flag of his country, he was arrested an of course discharged. I cannot say any more at this time, only that there is a good deal of doubt about Maryland Seceeding.

Tell Tom I shall attend to his case soon. Give my love to all and _____ ____

Yours Truly

"Gen. Boar-a-guard",

Comd. Army of Southern Confederacy.

May 1, 1861, Baltimore

My dear Wife,

I have this moment received your of the 26^th but it is post marked the 28^th. So I think in the excitement you have lost two days. I also received the lines of Mr. Kernney & George by private conveyance for which am very much obliged. I was glad to hear of your safe arrival, and will now acknowledge that I had some fears of your being stopped on your passage out of the harbor.

You cannot imagine the difference of Sentiment on the street today (and in fact since Saturday last). Now a Union man is not afraid to avow his sentiments and even wear the "Star Spangled Banner" as a badge- they are thick as flies this morning. It seems you had not received my letter when you wrote but doubtless _____ ___ this. I don’t think I shall be in a hurry about leaving Balt. especially as Mr. DeYoung wants I should stay with him for the present and further wants I should come and board at his house, so I shall be ____ of my board. I was intending to have gone last week but ____ come h_____ and he had got to get another bedstead & make further arrangements. Expect to now go up there tonight. He said he wished you were coming there for company for his wife. I almost wish you were here, though you will doubtless enjoy yourself more at home.

I have got everything packed (the _____ included) and stored at So____ & co. The Mirror, Bookcase, old Bureau & Green Chest & Mahog Easy chair ready for sending to Mass when an opportunity occurs, the balance am going to sell when they will bring anything. Before I moved them I saw a vessel up for Boston and went and inquired about freight- which as only 20 cts per foot (the usual price 8 or 10 cts.). There is now one up at 12 ½ cts per foot. Do you think I had better send them at that, or wait awhile? I do not think there is really any danger of this city being burned, if it is they will share the fate of all others I suppose. I wrote to Alfred last Sunday. Shall write to Tom soon. Helen Braman is contented as needs be- so not seem at all desirous of leaving. I really pitied her the day you left. They are all well as usual. I got some cold yesterday in my head, which makes me rather thick headed this morning- don’t think of any thing more to interest you so I will close. Give my best regards to _____ & family also Geo & Lydia.

Yours with much love

Chas

P.S. Have you seen anything of the Furlongs or Pauleys yet.

September 6, 1861, Poolesville

My dear Wife

I was obliged to leave our quarters at the river and come back here to finish out our pay rolls – they were partly done when we left, and as we have been expecting to return every day

____ ___ them ________, but we came to the conclusion this morning when we received three days rations, that the prospect was good for our stay – at least a week from the time we left. It is a good seven miles from here to where are our location – and I walked all but about a mile, which I rode on one of the government wagons – expected to ride with our teamsters from the place where he leaves the rations (a mile and a quarter up the canal) but he left before I got there.

The road from here was directly west to the Potomac & the canal is about 30 rods this side of the river – we are on this side of the land between them which is prinicply (sic) covered with woods – although there is an open space a little below where we turn to go (south) down the river, and it is here that the rebels have done most of their firing at our picket, they have some earthworks through here and so have the Federal troops.

The New York (Tamany Regt) have two co________ at this place & they have got rifles within a few days which have compelled the rebels to ........

Oct. 22, 1861, Poolesville

My Dear Wife

Well I am safe in camp and sound as a dollar not even getting a mark. I would telegraph if it was possible, but perhaps it would reach you sooner by letter. We suffered a terrible loss- Co. B has some 24 missing, including Capt. Simonds- Frank Marshall is also safe- he stripped himself and swam the river.

4 of Co. B’s boys, A. A. Simonds, Fred Sibley, Walter Eames & Geo. L Boss insisted all on bringing me across the river as they knew I could not swim. So when they began to talk of surrendering I concluded to take the chance, and just as we were about to embark Col Devens came along and they insisted upon bringing him too, and after a hard struggle we landed safe but just about exhusted-Col D. as well as myself owe our escape to those brave fellows.

I cannot go into detail of the battle now but will endeavor to give you a few brief statements of our lost & wounded. Co. B were ordered to relieve Co. H who were deployed as skirmishers, and Capt Simonds took the 1st platoon and left the 2nd with me as a reserve (Lieut Goddard being at home on guard).

Soon afterwards the Rebels approached the skirmishers on their left and opened a rapid fire which was answered by the reserve, and one or two companies, which lasted for little time; Captain Simonds was seen to retreat towards the woods after ordering his men to take care of themselves, and about this time the Cavalry made a charge. Since that time we have not seen Capt. Simonds, Sergt. G. C. Taylor, Corp. C. D. Monroe, A. Bauer, Ai. D. Osborn, A. Litchfied, Thos. Taylor.

It is the general impression that they are prisoners, except the latter, who some of the boys think was shot dead. Some of them were doubtless wounded. We all have a good deal of faith that Capt. Simonds will yet turn up alive somewhere. It is very strange, that so far as we can learn not one of our Co. B was wounded during the battle in the afternoon.

Aside from those above missing, there were wounded in the first battle in the morning. Geo. T. Daniels in wrist and arm, not seriously, Geo. B. Simonds (brother of the Capt) in the leg just above the knee (a flesh wound only) M. R. Johnson flesh wound in shoulder, Geo. Carpenter in the foot, and H. M. Carpenter in the arm, ___ ____ _____ are at these quarters, the others in the Hospital and in good spirits. I have no doubt many of the missing will turn up all right as they have five (of Co. B) come in this morning and they all report being with several other members during the night.

Jos. A. Marshall and Harry Rich were with Fred Britton last night. Britton swam the river and done his best to get the others to attempt-but they preferred to run the chances of being taken off by some of our picket. We were afraid most of those who remained would be taken prisoners but I think most of them followed up or down the river and will escape. I will try to give the names of the missing:

Capt. Simond Fitchburg	Geo. F. Benjamin Westminster
A. Bauer Jr. "	C. J. Eaton Worcester
G. C. Taylor "	W. W. Holman Winchendon
C. D. Monroe "	N. P. Howard Winchendon
Harry Rich "	W. Maynard Winchendon
H. F. Pope "	E. M. Scott "
David Bonny "	C. A. Stevens "
G. S. Gilchrist "
Granvill Hosmer "
H. J. Hosmer "
A. Litchfield "
J. A. Marshall "
John E. Morse "
Jos L. Moody "
Ai D. Osborn "
Joel Pratt "
John H. Prichard "
Luman W. Stone "
Tho. P. Taylor "
H. F. Whittemore "

Frank Scott - Just arrived in camp-taken off Virginia shore by our pickets

Maj Kimball is safe- he started to swim across just as "our crew" launched out but he tells me if he had not got to where he could touch bottom, he should have gone under. He and Col. Devens stripped themselves of everything but shirt and draws- the Maj lost his gold watch. came over with all my equipments-revolver too and I guess I am the only one that done it. I cannot _____ to write more now but will give you a detailed account in my next. Good bye with much love.

Ever your truly-Charles

Oct. 23, 1861, Poolesville, Md.

My Dear Wife

I gave you such a disconnected mess the last I wrote you, written with so many interruptions I hardly know what I said. Up to this time we know 5 captains and 4 Lieuts still missing and they are in all probability prisoners. Two companies have no officers D. (Worcester) and K (Blackstone) The latter has a sick Lieut. and Goddard has been detailed to Command till he is able to do so, which leaves me in command of Co. B.

It is reported that a rebel picket told some of our men across the river, they have got one of our Captains which they took in the morning-a tall sandy complexion man, and if true is probably Capt. Simonds--I hope it is true. I have felt all along that he was not killed. I sent two men at two different times in search of him and if he had not been taken think they would have found him.

When we got to the river that morning found the 5 Co’s which had been on the island had already crossed and we soon after crossed over and joined them about a mile this side of Leesburg--before we reached them however Co. H (Southbridge) had a severe fight with a Co. of Miss riflemen who attacked them while concealed in rifle pits - they gave them three vollies which drove them out of the pits into a cornfield with a loss of 1 killed and 8 or 9 wounded - about this time the rebel cavalry appeared and made a charge and Co. H retreated to the woods, bringing all their wounded off but 1, and the one killed which the cavalry took.

When we arrived on the ground Co. A were out skirmishing and soon after Co. B was ordered to relieved them. Capt. S. took the 1st platoon while I remained with the 2nd in the edge of the woods as a reserve. Very soon afterwards our skirmishes were attacked by both cavalry & Infantry and driven in. That was the last we ever saw of Capt. S. But was seen on the retreat by several of his men & I think he must be a prisoner as I sent after him twice & And nothing could be found of him.

Well Libbie it is no use for me to try to give you an account in detail of our fight. I have been obliged to leave this more than a dozen times, & you will see that I have already got one thing in twice. You will doubtless see a better account of it in the papers than I can give as the agent of the associated press was here all day yesterday.

We were under their fire which was a sharp one with rifles some time while they were in the woods & out of our reach. We also have our line of battle formed in the woods which of course protected us a great deal - the fight lasted till about sundown when Col Devens had the order to retreat to the river. After we got to the river, & they kept up their fire, we made another stand and held it a while, but it was no use. We had either got to be shot, drowned (unless we could escape by swimming) or taken prisoners. Some of the boys asked me if they might swim the river, but I kept them in line till after Col Devens said he was ordered to let the men take care of them selves, when off came their uniforms & in they plunged, that is those who could swim.

I tell you Libbie there were some sad faces about that time & I hope never to see the scene repeated. I should have been a prisoner in all probability unless shot, had not those boys taken me over. We came to Poolesville that night, where we arrived about 12 oclk - most of us bare footed - I was not -had on my stockings. I heard some one calling me & upon going in the direction saw Frank Marshall standing on the edge of the water with nothing but hat, shirt & draws on. He wanted to know if he might go over--I told him if he thought he could get over to go, he did not remain long on shore I assure you. I watched him till I thought he would make the trip surely. But after getting on to the island myself and inquiring of several for him, without learning anything of him I began to fear he was lost, but in a few minutes who should appear but him, safe and in good pluck - he came through barefooted & I guess stood the trip as well as any of us.

We are all somewhat tender footed yet but in a weeks time we’ll be in good running order again. I under stand there are now some 230 missing which is much better than I supposed that night. I thought then if we could ____ 250 of the Regt would be lucky.

We have these rebel prisoners here who will go to Washington today, Capt, 1st Lieut, & a Sergeant, the Lieut is a Miss man--he said he was a Virginian but his military buttons betrayed him. When he was taken he begged hard for his life, & looked all the time as though every minute would be the ____ when I saw him. One of the prisoners (I don’t know which) told Church Howe that those fellows with light blue pants & dark coats did not seem to care anymore for "bullets" than hard crackers, and if all the crowd had fought as well as they did the rebel could not have drove them - that is a report I hardly believe he said it.

I think I did not mention that Col Ward was wounded and had to have the leg taken off. He takes it very cool and is in good spirits - Col Devens is a brave old fellow & the boys have all confidence in him now. If he had the military experience in proportion to his courage he would drive the wounded. He done well though the other day. He told me the men exceeded his expectations in firmness & courage - seemed perfectly satisfied with them. (Thursday morn I thought my other letter a disorganized mess but this beats it all.

There were only between 6&7 hundred of the 15th in the fight with 2 Companies of the 20th Mass, & portions of the California and Tammany Regts. In all some 1600 men against a force of 3 times that number. There will doubtless a great many yet come in of that missing as they scattered up and down the sides to avoid being taken prisoners. Yesterday Harry Rich, Joe Marshall & H.T. Pope came in and we have heard of two more at Edwards Ferry this morning--Captains Bowman, Rockwood, Studley Gatchall(?) are yet missing - the latter it is said was shot crossing the river (Thursday Afternoon).

I never had such work writing letters--I am detailed "Officer of the day" today and am full of business - Don’t you think they are short of officers? That is a post belonging to Captains when there is any. I was surprised enough to see them come down to 2nd Lieut. Well a small ____ makes considerable of a gun now a days. Don’t mention it even to Alfred or Ann M_____. I have got to go over and take a look at the town guard. So I must close - I must write George & Mother if she is away from F I hope you are not worrying yourself about me. You will probably get my letter tomorrow. Give my best love to all. Good bye with much love to yourself & many kisses.

Ever Yours

Charles

Oct. 25, 1861, Poolesville Md.

My dear Wife - I shall commence another letter tonight and give you as long a one as possible & I fear you will not get very long ones until we get things straightened out somewhat. It will take us some days to get thoroughly armed & equipped again as a great many guns & uniforms were thrown into the river. Many of the men begin to feel the effects of swimming the river as they did, and travelling as far afterwards. I felt about as old as I ever did the second morning (Wednesday) - was stiff in every joint and cord which seemed to be the trouble with all, but have had so much to do in the way of running about have not had time to be sick.

(Saturday Morning)--We have just go orders to go to the river on picket duty. So I must cut this short. I enclose a little sketch of the battleground at Ball’s Bluff. You will see no’s 1, 2 & 3 show the predictions of the forces in the first fight - and the others in the main battle. It was drawn by our Doct. Simond & is promised very good. We have still 23 missing besides Capt Simonds. Am sorry to see the paper report all the missing Capts as dead - some one took responsibility of reporting that without any authority. I guess the ___ ___ ____ __ _____ _ ___ sending letters Tuesday instead of Monday don’t work ___ ________ to the old order. My love to all the ____ & a good share to yourself. Good bye again. Ever your husband

Charles

November 8, 1861, Poolesville

My dear Wife.

I have turned you off so long with a small sheet I will try to find time oy(?) commencing early, to fill a large one this time. It is cold & fall like today & a hard place to get rid of a cold. We are going to have a fire if possible before night which will make us quite comfortable.

Thomas is still here & I don’t know when he will leave. I told him I wanted him to remain as long as he could – seemed to enjoy camp life very well. My cold does not seem to gain much – am out of all patience with it. I received your letter of last Sunday last evening and am sorry to hear you were sick that day. Libbie I don’t like to have you dwell so much and mourn over the result of the fight on the 21^st-it will do no one any good and makes us both very unhappy. I want you to cheer up and take courage. I have always felt proud of you, for your patriotism in this matter and also in speaking of your sentiments to others.

I have by no means lost faith in the ability of the government to carry this war through successfully, but I must admit that some of our generals are decidedly below par. It may take longer than I at first supposed, but no the whole of the three years. The success or failure of the naval expedition will have a great influence at both sections.

You say Libbie you wish I would come home and that you are sorry I ever went into it. I don’t think you mean so bad as that do you? How should I feel to resign and come home for fear of getting into another fight? Should feel as though my room was far preferable to my company. No Libbie I could not think of it for a moment and I know after a second thought you would not like to have me. You know I am in for the war and I should feel sorry to leave as long as there is anything left of the 15^th Mass. That was a terrible day and I wish we may never have to witness the like again. You may bet your life we shall not get into another place where we cannot retreat, but I will leave the subject and answer some of the many questions you have been asking me of late & which I can never think to answer when I am writing.

In regard to the time that we shall receive our next pay is a hard question to decide – it is due the 12^th of Nov. We may get it in one week from that time, & it may be three. Our last was due the 12^th of Sept & it came the 10^th of Oct. At that time I received pay for the month of August as Lieut. & 20 days July as Sergt. Next pay day I shall receive for Sept & Oct. at the rate of $105.50 per month. When Tom goes home I shall ask him to stop in Balt. & collect the bal due me of So___. I seem to have lost all ___ of how much there is due – he let me have $15.00 when there you know. That I hope will keep you along till I can send some more. I did not expect you would salt down the whole of what I sent you.

Saturday Afternoon. This is a very rainy day and I am in one of the tents of the men where they have a fire, some three or four of the men with Thomas are putting in a furnace (as we call them) into my tent. It is arranged thus. A trench is dug through the center of the tent and out some three feet to the rear, which is covered with flat stones, for a chimney they use three barrells lined with clay mud – the fireplace or firebox is down on a level with the bottom of the trench & nearly out of sight. It is truly a great contrivance & keeps the ground warm & dry. The men lay with their feet over the trench which of course keeps them warm. I have heard they were invented by some of the Rhode Island troops but don’t know about the truth of it – about half of our men have got them, and they have two or three at head quarters.

Has Col Devens been in Fitchburg yet? I think he will have a house full to hear him & think he will prove interesting. He can make as good a speech as the next man. Do you hear anything about Port Kimball enlisting men for our company? One of our Winchendon men has received a letter stating that there are four men there all ready to come and take the places of the 4 missing from that place.

You have doubtless seen by the papers that Capt Simonds with the other, Bowman, Studley & Rockwood & Lieuts Greene Vasall & Hooper are prisoners in Richmond. It must be a great relief to his wife. He will in all probability some time be home again, & if it is possible to exchange another Capt for him, he would be able to join the company again, otherwise he would have to give his parole not to enter the service of the U.S. again. There are doubtless from 150 to 200 men of the 15^th there with them which will make the no. killed and missing quite small comparatively. Well Libbie I as set back completely, when I read that note you copied from uncle Kelsey. Where did he get his information I wonder? Of course it is a consolation to me to know that I done my duty satisfactorily to those immediately concerned. I did not come out here to do anything short of it and hope I have

Not – however I suppose I am much obliged to Kelsey for the compliment. He has not found a place to suit him yet I expect. I wish they would make a General of him and put the 15^th under him – we would have no more Balls Bluffs scrape. I think from what little I heard him say at Camp Scott that day he would make a shrewd one – should be willing trust him any way. I have got to go over and do some writing for Lieut Goddard. He is at a house over in town. He is quite sick but comfortable. Is terrible uneasy which makes it bad for him. Give my love to all the folks. Good bye with many kisses. Ever yours Charles.

P.S. Charles Farmer has written to John E. Morse’s lady & given all the particulars, which are few indeed of where he was seen last. I have little doubt but what he is a prisoner with the rest.

Jan 13, 1862 Potomac River

My dear Wife.

We have at last got down here & I expect it will be nearly the 1^st of February before we get back to camp-provided we don’t get ordered over the other side. Well I have just been up to Mr. Whites & he will take you to accommodate, although he don’t want to get into that way, as he will have men there he will want. I want you start next Monday. (the 20^th I believe) or as much sooner as you like and come to Poolesville via Adamstown unless Geo Dadman sees fit to come with you, then you can come the way he thinks best. You will have to stay in Baltimore over night and take the train about 8 oclk for Adamstown, where you will find a stage to take you directly to P. and you will have them leave you at John Norris’es – the house next to Dr. Brace (toward Poolesville). I have arranged the matter with them. I will try to meet you there – wish I could further back on your route but it will be impossible. Lieut Goddard has only some two days duty since his return & was not able to come down here with us - will come in a few days.

If you stop at a hotel in Baltimore, I think I would go to the "Maltby House"- Do you think of calling on Mrs. Beaman as you come out?

I want you to write me just as soon as you receive this & tell me when you will start & and if possible when you will arrive here. If you come Monday I can ____ when you will be here if you come right along. If you write Lydia when you go through Phila. They will probably see you at the Depot. Remember & bring the things I mentioned cigars & c.

I send you $20.00 in this in script I would get gold to bring out here, for it if I could. I have written in a great hurry and cannot go into other matters at this time. All is if you don’t hear of our being in Virginia start as I have directed & hope I shall have the pleasure of a short visit from you at least before any forward movement is made- My love to all-Good bye with love & a kiss-Ever Yours-Charles

March 6, 1862, Harpers Ferry, Va.

My dear wife,

Now we have just got orders to be ready to march tomorrow morning so I think our Brigade is going to move forward towards Winchester. I guess you have better direct my letters to Washington after all, at least till you hear from me again. I am anxious to hear from you & to know where you are, though I imagine you are in Baltimore.

Wish I could have you here with me but I cannot, & it is no use wishing. I enjoyed your visit to Poolesville very much am so thankful you came when you did.

I have got a bad cold in my head which troubles me considerable – it is better today than it was yesterday though. Syl is quite tough-stands the war better than I expected he would. I have done nothing about my business from the ____. I have not had time. Shall be glad when Capt. Simonds returns, I am about tired of being alone with the company. I have got much to do to get ready to go in the morning and cannot write more.

You must remember me to all Mr. B’s family, and I will bid you good bye with much love and many kisses. Ever yours, Charles.

I enclose 5.00 for Syl which he wants you to pay to Alfred for clothes I thing he says, Charles

March 16, 1862, Bolivar, Va.

My dear Wife,

I guess you will be surprised to learn that we are back again insight of Harpers Ferry. We are now encamped on the same ground as the regt was while Co. B was on Provost Guard duty at the Ferry. We have been in such a hubbub that I really cannot remember when I wrote you last, or when in our journey we was- think however it was before we started for Winchester.

On Wednesday night about 6 ock we got orders to pack our knapsacks and be ready to march at a moments notice. In about 15 minutes after, orders came to leave our knapsacks and go in light marching order. In about half an hour everything was countermanded and we supposed we were to have a quiet night, but about 8 oclk orders came again to sling knapsacks and start for Winchester which we done, but had not gone over 100 rods before we were ordered back to camp, where we remained till 8 oclk next morning, then we struck tents and left bag & baggage for Winchester a distance of 10 ½ miles from Berryville.

When within some two miles of Winchester all of a sudden we were turned into a piece of woods and ordered to take a lunch & rest a while, and then march back to Berryville-for what no one but Gen Banks knew. It gave us a march of 15 or 16 miles for nothing. Next day at 8 oclk we march for Harpers Ferry-made about 15 miles and encamped in the woods some 2 miles this side of Charleston. Yesterday morning we marched to this point only 5 miles, but it rained for an hour before we started and all the way & the ground we are on is just like a hog pen – mud every where. I expect we are to remain here till tomorrow, when we take the cars for some point unknown to us. It is the general impression that we are to go down the coast some where-if that is the case we should take the steamers either at Washington, Annapolis or Baltimore, most likely one of the two latter points and if you have not left Baltimore I may have another opportunity to see you. They will probably hurry us along –much as possible. I think I should get me a valise and send my trunk home or get it stored in Balt. If we go there. I should not dare to run the risk of taking it along in that section of country. The Brigade Qr Master found fault because there has been so much baggage to carry. Shall take just as little as possible then if I lose it or am obliged to leave it, will not amount to much.

I am thankful we are rid of Banks-dont believe he is much of a General. Gen Sedgewicks whole Division is going with us which makes 3 Brigades of infantry (12 Regts) besides Van Allens Cavalry and 3 or 4 Batteries of artillery. I am glad you had so good a time in Washington. I think you did not tell me to ____ there-_____ I had half a mind to do so but was afraid you would not get it. Do you think of stopping Phila.? I am afraid you will leave Balt. Before receiving this from what you said in your last. Think I will try to write a note to Wm Beaman and enclose this in it.

My feet are so cold I cannot write. I have no fire in my tent now a days. Syl is pretty tough and stands the marching better than I expected, but he is not of much use as a helper on the road. __ wants a good camp "Bull nigger" to help pitch tents & c. & c. Most of the officers have a darkie who carries their blankets & c for them which makes it much easier for them. I have backed my knapsack right along. Capt Wood of co. K has done the same. Goddard only carried his to Adamstown. This paper is rather smutty but I did not notice it at first. Trust you will excuse that part. Remember me to all the folks and write me often as you can - ____ to Washington D.C. Good bye with much love and a kiss.

Ever yours

Charles

P.S. I have received nothing from home since leaving Poolesville except through you letters.

March 24, 1862

Good Morning Libbie.

I have just returned from Mr. Bigelows- I found him here waiting to see me when I came in from a walk last night.

I went down a had a splendid call and staid all night & they wanted I should come back to breakfast about 8 oclk but I don’t know as I shall go as I have several things to attend to . I called Henry Wilson to see if he could do anything towards helping me to a commission in the Army, (J.B. P______ introduced me). He is very fr___ & sociable & had a good many questions to ask about the 15^th Regt. He says the Secy of War has adopted a very unjust rule. Which is that he will give no volunteer officer a commission in the regular army – says they must serve their 3 years as a volunteer. I told Wilson I would _____ remain with my reg’t until discharged. He said he tried to do something for Capt Bowman but could not, but if the secy should decide to do different at any time he should be happy to same me. So my gig is up.

I hear that after we cross the Potomac the letters will be returned for a certain number of days to prevent the movement being known. So you will understand why you do not hear from me. Good bye again with much love.

Ever yours Charles

Mrs. Lamb is at home & they ___ send love to you.

March 31, 1862 Chesapeake Bay

My dear Wife,

I don’t expect I shall be allowed to mail this still I’ll be on the safe side and do so if possible. We left Alexandria on the 29^th inst about 3 oclk p.m. amid a driving snow storm and only made some 12 miles, at least we anchored for the night at "Mathias Point",

About dark the storm changed to rain & continued quite severe through the night. We are on the steamer "Argo" which formerly ran between Boston & Nahaut (?) & is the one which ran the rebel Batteries at Cock pit point a few week since and had 14 shot thrown at her.

She is quite a small craft for the freight she has got. Companies A. B. & D. with the band & horses of the field & Staff officers, besides having in tow a schooner containing the 2^nd R.I. Battery which makes our progress rather slow. I think however we are in advance of the rest of the 15^th. The New York 2^nd & 3^rd are a little in advance. I did not suppose we should be so long on this trip, but the river is very crooked. Yesterday it rained a part of the time & was cold & disagreeable being on deck which compelled all that could to remain below. Co. A are quartered on deck & most of them had to remain there night & day through the storm. That was decidedly severe. The only amusement they have was shooting into the flocks of duck which were very numerous, believe they succeeded in breaking the wing of one. There are very few points of interest on this river. Mount Vernon & Fort Washington being the only two of much ___ except the rebel Batteries that were. It was snowing hard when we past Mr. Vernon so it was impossible to see it as it really is, of course it is the most desirable time in summer to visit that spot.

Last night we anchored just "inside" as they call it, that is before coming out fairly into the bay, it was quite rough outside, and one of the Gun boats hailed us as they come in & said "we better not go outside", they are stationed about here for the purpose of watching the weather &c. &c. for the benefit of our transports.. Our capt said this morning if the weather was gone we could reach Ft. Monroe by 4 oclk this p.m. We are liable to remain on board another night if the weather is not amenable.

I noticed where the Patapsco River branches off to go to Balt., the way you came when you went home by steamer. I imagine it was very much such weather then as we are having now. The Capt of the steamer tells one we shall probably land at Hampton, (the town which was burnt by Col. Magruder last fall). It is some 3 miles from Ft. Monroe. We have got to touch at the fort for orders, said we may possibly land there and march over to Hampton.

Yesterday was Sunday but it seemed little like it. I assure you. After supper (we got our meals on board the boat) Capt Simonds invited me to play "Euchus" & I went to take my place- I had business out. Syl, Herbert and Frank are all doing as well as can. We are so thick settled that all cannot lay quite straight at night. I got a good nights rest last night but before it was awful- worse even than when we came to Washington in the freight cars. I am going to write Alfred too, so if you happen to be at home you will see his before you get this. Hope you got the pictures safe wish they were better. Remember me to all the folks whenever you can. Good bye with much love to kids.

Ever yours

Charles

(Afternoon)

It has cleared up fine we are in sight of the Fort & the ____ but some 8 or 10 miles from stream have had a fine sail since 10 oclk this am.

Good bye again with love & kisses

Charles

April 4, 1862, Camp in the field one mile inside of the Rebel batteries at Wynn’s Mills- a little nearer Yorktown Va.

My dear Wife,

I have to inform you of the retreat of the rebels from their first line of fortifications early this morning- they shelled us at intervals all night but so far as we have heard not even scratching one of our men. They left in a great hurry for some reason unknown to us, as everything indicates. Some left many tents & cooking utensils some flour, sugar, bacon & c_ at one camp there as a whole tub of dough all mixed ready for the oven. The 19^th regt Mass vol were the first body of troops to occupy their works, as Dana’s Brigade of which they were part, were on picket. Gorman’s Brigade relieved Dana on picket & were ordered to hold the works & we have advanced a mile or more beyond.

We have heard they have evacuated Yorktown but of course the force on the extreme right will occupy that place first. We have not learned yet where they have gone to - there is a difference of opinion in regard to it. You will of course hear of all this before this reaches you, but I have taken the first opportunity to notify you officially of it. I will give you further particulars at some future time. We feel bad to think we could not bag them, but I must say we should have had bloody work to have carried this work by storm - they were stronger were (sic) than we had though for & everyone was satisfied they were strong. They have been busy as well as ourselves since our arrival here & have strengthened their works by trenches & pits far in the rear of their front works. It has seemed little like Sunday today I assure you - we were going to have services, but of course have had something else to attend to. I am tired & must close with love to all, the boys are all well & in good spirits.

Good bye with much love & a kiss

Ever Your husband

Charles

P.S. I came near forgetting to tell you that I am now acting adj’t of the Regt. Was detached by Maj Kimball yesterday Morning. Adj’t Baldwin is soon to join general Devens & today the Quartermaster recd a letter from him saying he wanted him also. Maj says if I want either position (if he is left to appoint) I can have it & he will use his influence for me if it is not left entirely to him. I am half inclined to take the adj’t provided I can get it – if I cannot have it I would not take it of course.

April 17, 1862, Camp Winfield Scott near Yorktown Va.

My dear Wife

I expect you will hear awful stories about yesterdays days work, so I will say a word or two in regard to it. As I wrote you last we were sent on picket Tuesday Morning & expected to be relieved after twenty four hours, but as the "ball was opened" Yesterday morning we did not get relieved until this morning.

We (companies "B" & "D") were informed by Gen Gorman that an attack would be made on our left by Gen Smith & he (Gorman) should attack from his point to attract the attention of rebel ______, so our Gunboats could run their blockade at Yorktown on our right. The 15^th were ordered to support the 3d R.I. Battery. This Brigade had only part of two Batteries engaged at the same time. We commenced shelling them about 7 oclk with two 10 lbs. Parrot guns. The "Rebs" come to time quite promptly & responded for some half dosen (sic) times when the Rhode Island boys knocked their gun (which served to point – most direct to the 15^th) off its pins, which put an end to that – two other guns were under the special care of our sharp shooters & as often as a rebel showed his head down things came in such numbers that they deserted the guns entirely & after 10 oclk I hear they did not throw a shell at the Battery supported by the 15^th. From 12 oclk until about 4 or 5 the firing was light, but at 4 we opened on them more raid than ever & kept it up till dark. The rebels seemed to give Gen Smith more attention than they did us in the forenoon one of his Batteries lost 4 men killed and 3 wounded. In our shelling not a man was scratched in the regiment or battery all day. Gen Smith has quite a sharp fight for an hour before sundown, but I have not been able to learn anything of the result. I only know one Captain was killed. Understand the troops engaged were from Vermont & Maine.

Companies B & D were not with the regiment but done the skirmishing on the left flank of the Batteries. We were about 1/8 of a mile in advance & at the left of the artillery. We simply deployed & laid on our guns, with our "eyes open tight", awaiting the approach of some rebel picket, but they did not come. They were evidently reinforced late in the afternoon & could be heard at work about their fortifications soon after dark so it was thought advisable to keep our forces in position during the night. The 15^th remained with their Battery, we remained in our position as pickets & the 2d N. York & 1^st Mina.

Were in line of battle in the road in our (the pickets) near acting as a support to us. It was supposed that if any attempt to take our battery or attack us was made, it wont be at this point where we were stationed. Our Batteries shelled them at intervals all night to prevent their making repairs to any advantage. We had our rations brought to us all day & you better believe companies B & D were a sleepy set of fellows this morning & I ought now to be making up some of my two nights lost sleep, but thought I would spend a few minutes in writing. They commenced shelling again smart this morning & continue for two or three hours with what success I have not heard, as we were relieved. The have continued to give them often enough through the day to prevent their making any repairs. Their barracks & a house inside the fort were knocked all in pieces yesterday. I expect by the time we get into Yorktown that we shall get so used to sleeping "by the booming of cannon" that it will be impossible to go to sleep without them. Some of us will doubtless get put to sleep full as sound & in a definite was than we care to before reaching Yorktown.

I must tell you that yesterday we (the skirmishers) laid a portion of the time in the same rifle pit that were dug by the forces under Gen Washington nearly 81 years ago & are yet quite a protection against the enemy. Gen Clinton commanded the Brig. Composed of N.Y. and N.J. troops who occupied the same ground for camping as we now do & Clinton occupied the old house, nearby as his headquarters. We were relieved this morning by Genl. Burn’s Brigd. It does not look now much like Sedgewick’s Division being in the reserve. We are pushed as far in advance as they can get troops. I want to go ahead till we have wiped out the Balls Bluff fight to say the least, though I may get wiped out myself perhaps.

I did not get a letter from you by the last mail Tuesday night and if I don’t tonight I shall give up – give up writing to you till you write me again. I don’t see what you are about, though I can imagine your busy at work on those new rags you have spoken of – by the way I received a piece of your silk dress while at Hampton – think it very neat & pretty. I wish I had a summer wardrobe. It is getting to be mighty hot in the middle of the day. There is one thing sure, they cannot give us a very long march now, unless we get driven back. We have to turn out at 4 oclk am. & remain under arms until about half past 5. It comes hard to turn out quite so early when we are so much broken of our rest – but we expect anything in this business.

I hear today that Col. Devens has been confirmed as a Brigadier General & that he has received a dispatch from his friends to that effect. It is supper time & I must close. Are going to have coffee, Fried Ham & Army pies or hard bread. We are not out of the land of soft bread. Received a letter from Laura by last mail. Give my love to her & mother when you see them. Shall write her again before long. Love to Ann Marie, Alfred, Laura & c & c & I will bid you good bye with much love and a kiss. Ever your husband

Charles

Sly Herbert & Frank are all well. Frank appeared yesterday P.M. at our line of skirmishers with gun in hand he had just returned from Fortress Monroe with his team. Says he heard we were going to have a fight & thought he would come up good for him.

Sept. 16, 1862, On road between Boonsboro & Sharpsburg, Md.

My dear Wife,

I survived here last night about 1 oclk pretty much used up with the head ache & tired from head to foot. Was on the road all the night, before stopping only long enough to feed our teams. We harnessed up & are ready to start in the morning with the troops & it is very seldom we got under weigh before from 1 to 3 & some times when our Division are in the rear it is night before we got fairly on the road then we have to travel nights. When we left Frederick last Sunday we had not made over two miles at half past five then we had to go over the mountain in darkness & such a road you never saw, rocks & steep pitches going up & down. We are driving the rebels back day by day. Sunday we had fights at three different points, the principle one was on the second range of mountains we past coming from Frederick, our forces drove them up & over the Mt, we had quite a number wounded but not a great many killed. I saw quite a number dead rebels & such a filthy looking lot I never saw. The people here say that their whole army is the most ____ looking set they ever saw. We expected a fight early this morning but it has not come off & the probabilities are that the rebels have left the positions they took yesterday a.m. We don’t have very good mail facilities new, it comes in as often as it can & goes out soon after it comes in. The last mail we had was Saturday afternoon, hope we may get one today & have an opportunity to send this.

Herbert is well as usual, saw him yesterday, he looks as tough as any man in the company. Frank has_____ arrived home & from all accounts he is much pleased at getting his discharge. There is some shelling a little way in the _____ by both sides & perhaps they may get up a fight. Old Sumner is doubtless spoiling for a fight as usual. I really think he rather fight than eat any time. I will say good bye for a short time.

Wednesday Morn, 16^th (same letter)

Our train was ordered back a distance of some 3 miles yesterday as we were too near in case a fight should come off. There was some shelling opposite our forces but none of our regt injured. This morning the artillery opened in earnest & I have counted sixty reports a minute, our division had not been engaged up to few minutes ago, so a man just reported our forces have____ them from____ ______ ____ ____ ___ ___ shell on their right, left & front.

The mail man is here having been to the right & left his mail & on his way back, but will take t\his along for me. He is eating his breakfast now. I hope there is a letter for me. I shall write ,just as often as I can send. You must write often.

Love___ ____ ____ ____ with much love & kiss. Ever you own husband, Chas

Sept 18, 1862, Frederick, Md

Brother Alfred,

It is quite uncertain whether Libbie is in F. or not so I will write you & then if you please forward to her as I have not time to write you both today.

The 15^th was engaged in the terrible battle of yesterday, some 3 or 4 miles from Boonsboro, & from what little I have heard of the killed & wounded will exceed those of Ball Bluff, certainly as far as the officers are concerned. I have seen but ____ ____ ____ the regiment which left it after about 12 oclock yesterday noon. I will not undertake to give the number of killed & wounded from the reports I have heard any ___ than the officers.

You have doubtless __ this ____ my dispatch announcing the death of our noble and beloved Capt Simonds & I hope his ___ too. He was struck by the butt of a shell just under the left collar bone & instantly killed. The surgeon said by the concussion, it hardly penetrating the flesh surface except in one place. He stood within 3 or 4 feet of Col. Kimball & had just spoken to him once and the Col turned around to answer him, he was struck & fell, simply exclaiming , oh! It is evident he hardly knew what hit him. If I am rightly informed, he came out of the ___ ___ which _____ fatal to so many unharmed & was struck by the shell soon after. His body we got back to camp about 5 p.m. & immediately set about preparing to have it sent home not knowing whether it would be done or not.

Soon after I got orders from Col Kimball to send it home at any rate & get it embalmed if possible. I had had express orders to ______ camp by the Brgd QM & of course had my hands partially tied, but Bowman? Simonds got a coffin made & at 11 oclk at night he & myself started for this place expectation of getting the body embalmed here & forwarded by express. Arrived here at half past 4 this morning & after____ all over the city after surgeons B___ & Marshalls __, learned that if could not be done in the place, then we decided to have a Metatic? coffin, but soon found there was none in the place long enough. After consulting the undertaker & two or three Surgeon decided to take a wood coffin & have it cemented, which the Surgeon said would answer all purposes & I hope it will reach his friends in good condition, but I must say I have my fears that it will not.

I am not satisfied with the way we were obliged to put up with after expecting so much more. I am so sorry he could not have been embalmed. After we had lain him out in a tent, it was the most natural looking corpse I ever saw, had a very pleasant expression & looked as I have seen him so many times sleeping in that same position. But we done the best we could under the circumstances. His loss to the company cannot be filled, the longer he was with them the better they liked him, and I am sure it will be hard finding a man that will give the satisfaction he did.

I made every effort ____ ____ to learn something in regarding Herbert but could not. Wheel___, the man I ____ saw the left wing of the regiment suffered __ ___ that the right. Every officer but one in the left wing was killed or wounded. Lieut Derby of Co. G, Capt Saunders & Lieut Berry of the Sharpshooters were killed. Lieut Gale of Co. G, Capt F____ & Lt Spurr of G, Lt Ellinwood of F, Capt Joslin & Lt Corbin of I, Capt Barlett & Lt Fletcher of H, Lt Jorgenson & Capt Simonds were the only officers in the right wing that were hit, the former but lightly & I believe most of the wounds are not of a serious nature. I heard of but three members of B that were wounded still there are doubtless more & some killed. I know___ ______ little about it. None of the field officers were hurt though the Col had his horse shot through the thigh.

Our forces came off the ________ yesterday & the battle was doubtless _______ today.

We had 72,000 troops which did not fire a gun yesterday (so I was informed) which will do the work of today & I hope drive the rebels out of Maryland, I shall write again tomorrow when I learn the particulars of the losses.

Tell? Aunt Libbie to not give up. There’s no doubt Herbert is safe, he is one of the lucky kind: but I must close as it is about time for the train to come in.

Love to all & let me hear from you when convenient.

Truly your brother

C.H.E.