The wreck of the rebel army escaped during the night, and fled in the direction of Staunton and Lynchburg, and pursuit being made by the cavalry to Mount Jackson, hundreds of them were captured. The battle of Cedar Creek will long be remembered by the 6th corps. At first driven back with severe loss, they in turn rallied, and to the brave 6th corps will be attributed the tide of battle turning in our favor; for, had they retreated in such confusion as the other corps, the enemy would have been victorious. But the Wilderness, and those hard-fought battles of the Potomac army, were lessons not easily forgotten, and the 6th corps, as usual, was ready for any emergency. The 2d division lost heavily in men, more so than the rest, as our lines fell back. The enemy had stripped our dead and wounded as they lay on the field, and when our men recovered their lost ground they were seen lying as they fell, stark naked, and cold in the embrace of death. Such scenes only made our men fight the harder, and Early paid dearly for his boldness in surprising us in the morning. The rebel General, Ramsuer, was mortally wounded and fell in our hands a prisoner. He died at the headquarters of General Sheridan, and his remains were sent South by way of City Point. Thus endedthe enemy's last attempt to invade the North via the Shenandoah valley; and Early, with his demoralized and disheartened troops, was seen no more in that vicinity. Ninety pieces of artillery had been taken from them at different times in the valley, and with ten pieces of artillery, and about ten thousand men, they reached Staunton, and all but one brigade were transported to Richmond, there to take part in the subsequent battles near Petersburg. Our forces encamped in their old position, and the next day engaged in burying the dead, the ground being covered with both Union and Rebel soldiers. The field was hotly contested by our men, and although surprised they were not whipped. General Sheridan rode along the lines and was cheered by the men. General Ricketts was temporarily placed in command of the 6th corps, and was severely wounded early in the day. He was the best division commander in the service, and when the men heard of his wound, all were anxious for his safety. The papers spoke of him in the highest praise as an excellent and able general. The following is an extract from Harper's Weekly, which is quoted for the benefit of those who knew him well:
General James B. Ricketts, wounded in the battle of Cedar Creek, is a native of New York, from which State he was appointed a Cadet to West Point in 1835. He graduated in 1839 with the grade of 2d Lieutenant of artillery; in 1846 he was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and in August, 1852, was appointed Captain, having since 1849 occupied the position of Regimental Quarter Master.
General Ricketts was wounded in the first battle of Bull Run and taken prisoner. For distinguished service in that battle he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, and in nearly all the Virginia campaign he has commanded a division. His division of the 6th corps was in July last detached from the army of the Potomac and sent to Harper's Ferry, taking part in the battle of Monocacy and in all the subsequent battles in the Shenandoah Valley. In General Sheridan's absence, General Wright assumed command of the army of the Valley; his place at the head of the corps was occupied by General Ricketts, who was wounded in the early part of the battle on the 19th, and was for some time supposed to be in a dying condition. If his wound should indeed prove a mortal one, the country will have lost a very able officer.
General Sheridan had again immortalized his name. As he came down the pike, he exclaimed to the men: "Join your commands, boys, I'll wax h—l out of them before night." At the sight of him our men pressed forward with their usual impetuosity, and soon the Johnnies were in full retreat. Thus a decisive battle was gained, which, but for the timely arrival of GeneralSheridan, would have resulted in disaster. The troops again entered camp, the tents on a line, with the cavalry in pursuit of the flying enemy far up the valley. General Custer succeeded in recapturing the colors lost by the 15th New Jersey; their color-bearer being killed, it fell into the hands of the enemy. He complimented the men for their bravery, telling them not from cowardice, but through accident, they were lost, and that he was very much gratified to return them.
The weather was now very cold, and there were yet no signs of Winter quarters. Nearly six months had passed since the troops crossed the Rapidan, and what had been accomplished? Lee was driven step by step from his stronghold in the Wilderness, flanked several times by Grant, until he was within the fortifications of Richmond, his supplies cut off, and closely besieged by Grant. Sherman had driven Johnson and his successor, Hood, whipping them in every battle, and finally capturing Atlanta, their stronghold, in the very heart of the Confederacy. Early had been whipped in four pitched battles by Sheridan, and driven far up the valley to Staunton, his artillery nearly all captured and his army completely routed, and everything that an army could subsist on in the valley destroyed. Price, in Missouri, had been driven in confusion, and was in full retreat, followed by Rosecrans. The Copperheads North, defeated in their every scheme, the soldiers now looked for the re-election of Lincoln, and for a speedy termination of the war.
It was now currently reported that Longstreet had succeeded Early, and with thirty-five thousand men was again advancing up the valley. The troops lay in camp at Middletown nineteen days, and it was discovered the enemy had left the valley. On Nov. 6th the troops were ordered back in the direction of Winchester, but the morning being very cold and frosty the order was countermanded. On the 8th the election for President was held in the various camps; the people of New Jersey had denied their soldiers that privilege, and with bitter curses toward them, the men lay quietly in camp. McClellan was scarcely thought of, and the votes for Lincoln were far ahead. New Jersey had long been considered as disloyal, and had she been one of the border States, would long ago have seceded. Staunch old Maryland stood firm, and was far more loyal than Jersey. But the rule of the Copperheads was of short duration, and when the war was ended, and the boys in blue returned to their homes, they were soon ruled out and their places filled by loyal men.
On the 9th of November the orders to move were again given, marching ten miles, and passing for the last time Middletown and Newtown, halting at Kurrentown, a very nice place; wood plenty, but water scarce. The enemy's cavalry had again advanced, under their leader, Rosser, and attacked our out-posts, but after considerable skirmishing they were driven back in confusion and retired during the night. The papers now arrived, and the re-election of Lincoln was hailed by the soldiers with joy, as the majority of them were in favor of him. Many of the men now commenced to build Winter quarters, and log huts were rapidly erected, with chimneys built of sod. Officers and men were uncertain what to do, as no orders were given to build Winter quarters.
Nothing of importance occurred during the month of November; as usual rumors were plenty. The different regiments were detailed to guard the supply trains to and from Martinsburg, our base of supplies, as the guerillas still infested the route. A railroad was commenced, and was soon built from Halltown to Winchester, and was heavily guarded by the 8th corps. Winchester now became a lively place, as Sheridan's headquarters were there.
The 6th corps was reviewed by General Sheridan, and preparations were again made to leave, as orders from Grant were to send the 6th corps to Petersburg. The review was witnessed by the people of the surrounding country; the day was not pleasant, but rainy and disagreeable. General Sheridan took a farewell leave of the men, thanking them for their bravery, and was sorry to see them leave; to the 6th corps the praise of saving Washington was given. The men gave three rousing cheers for Sheridan and the Shenandoah Valley; he then rode to his headquarters, and the troops dispersed to their various camps. Their work in the valley was over, and they were to again join the Potomac army, to take part in the final drama—the capture of Richmond. Since leaving Petersburg, the troops had in five months fought five pitched battles, each time victorious, and had marched nearly 1,000 miles, a record that no other corps in the army could boast of. The men deserved the praise which was awarded them.
On the 1st of December the 1st division moved, and was placed on cars at Winchester for Washington. It was now certain the corps was to leave and Winter quarters were abandoned. On the 3d, the 3d division followed the 1st, General Wright having gone the previous day. The division marched ten miles, taking the cars at Stephenson Station and riding one hundred and forty-twomiles on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, again passing Monocacy Bridge; it being night the men were mostly asleep; arrived at Washington on Sunday morning. But a few months before, when the city was in danger and the troops were hurried from City Point, the people flocked to see them and cheer them on their way, now scarcely a sound was heard, Washington was out of danger. The 6th corps was again to return to City Point, and by the people their hardships in the valley were forgotten; they passed scarcely noticing the men, and without a reception of any kind the troops were placed on transports for City Point. The weather had changed and was as warm and as mild as spring. The troops were furnished with three days' rations, and by three o'clock were all on board. The 14th was placed on transport Keyport, passing Fortress Monroe, and arriving at City Point at 11 o'clock on Monday morning, riding on Grant's railroad sixteen miles. This track is laid on the ground without grading and runs up hill and down in range of the enemy's shells. The corps was to take the quarters of the 5th corps, they moving on a reconnoissance to Weldon, North Carolina, for the purpose of cutting the Southside railroad, and as much of the enemy's communications as possible. The regiment had been in the middle department nine months, lying at Monocacy Bridge; in the Potomac army one year; and in the valley five months, and now back in the Potomac army again. The 5th corps' quarters were on the Weldon railroad that had been captured at an immense loss of life. There were now but two roads leading into Richmond, the Southside road and the Danville road, which were now aimed for, and as soon as the 6th corps arrived, the 5th with two divisions of cavalry, moved out to Hatcher's Run, on the Boydton plank road. They did not wish to leave their quarters, but were glad to see the 6th corps come back and willingly gave up their quarters to them. The troops halted until morning, and then occupied the tents vacated by the 5th corps. The headquarters of the 3d division was in a pretty place, having been fitted up with considerable care, but the quarters of the men were very poor, being put up in the Fall with no intention of remaining.
The troops remained in quarters but one day, when they were ordered to the support of the 5th corps, which had attacked the enemy at Weldon, destroying thirty miles of the Southside road, and burning a large amount of rations, besides capturing a number of prisoners and contrabands. The division returned the nextday, having marched but ten miles, the 5th corps needing no assistance. It was snowing hard, and the men suffering severely lying out in the storm. Both armies now confronted each other for a distance of forty miles, with works in some places but a few rods apart, but every precaution was taken to prevent a surprise. The men from both sides were on friendly terms, talking with each other and exchanging papers. In front of Petersburg was a fort named Fort H—l from its close proximity to the rebels. Firing from this fort was incessantly carried on day and night, and the men gave it that name as it was continually under fire, killing numbers daily.
Winter quarters were now fairly established, the men fixing up the old tents very comfortably. Cold weather had now commenced and rainy days were frequent; furloughs were granted the men from ten to twenty days, large numbers visiting their homes. General Sherman was moving through the heart of Georgia. His campaign is familiar to my readers, and as the 14th was in the Potomac army, it is not necessary to give an account of Sherman's march. It was supposed by the men that the armies of Grant and Sheridan would be consolidated in time, but all ideas of soon moving were abandoned, as the roads were almost impassable, while Sherman was farther south and able to move with his heavy trains, living on the country. It was the main object of Grant to hold Lee in check to prevent him from re-enforcing Johnson, and in time to sever all communication from Richmond, compelling Lee to retreat farther south or to surrender. By frequent moving he had extended his lines some distance, thereby weakening the enemy's lines considerably. They were getting short of rations, as Sherman was cutting their railroads in every direction. A vast amount of supplies was stored at City Point for the use of our armies; sutlers were in abundance and City Point in reality soon became a city. The headquarters of General Grant were on a hill near the river. Immense guns and fortifications were seen in all directions, fully manned by men, while it was with difficulty that the enemy could raise enough men to fill their works. Pickets and videttes from each side were but a few rods apart, and frequently conversed with each other. The battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, and Petersburg were forgotten, and no one would ever think that those men who now were so friendly with each other, had ever engaged in terrible strife on the field of battle. The men fromEarly's command were in front of the 3d division, and when on picket the scenes of the valley were often talked of, but always with bitterness on the side of the enemy. Our boys would cry out, "Halloo, Johnny Reb., did you get enough of the valley?" Johnny replies, with his fingers up to his nose, "Do you Yanks see anything of the South-side railroad?" Our men had been aiming for that, but had failed repeatedly.
The 14th was now re-organized, having received several recruits, to the amount of two hundred. Captain Janeway, for bravery and meritorious conduct, was promoted to the colonelcy of the regiment, he and Lieutenant Baily being the only old officers from Freehold. The officers were now mostly enlisted men, and by their conduct had won for themselves a lasting reputation. Among those that distinguished themselves, and in every action were at their posts, were Captains Wanser, Manning and Marsh; Lieutenants Foster, Barkalew, Fletcher, Hanning, White and Manderville. Each one had entered the ranks and had won for himself his position. Colonel Truex was still in command of the brigade, acting Brigadier General. The division commanded by General Seymour, formerly commander of the 2d brigade, being captured in the Wilderness, he was taken to Charleston and subsequently released, and placed in command of the division in the absence of General Ricketts.
All was now quiet in camp, with the exception of cannonading in front of Petersburg, and picket firing along some portion of the line. This was the third and last Winter in the army for the regiment; the first Winter was spent at Monocacy, the second at Brandy Station, and the third at Petersburg.
Reports from various sources led Grant to believe that the enemy had again detached three divisions from the army in front of Petersburg, to again attempt the capture of Washington, via the Shenandoah Valley. He therefore sent the 2d corps and Greggs' division of cavalry from the army of the Potomac, and a force of General Butler's army, to threaten Richmond from the north side of the James to prevent Lee from sending troops away, and if possible to draw back those that were sent. In this move six pieces of artillery and several hundred prisoners were captured. Detained troops that were under marching orders ascertained that but one division of the three reported detached had gone, which soon returned when the movements of our forces had been discovered. The enemy having drawn heavily from Petersburg to resist this movement, the 5th corps moved out on a reconnoissance on the left, to take possession of the South-side road. During the day there was considerable fighting, but the enemy were found in force, and the 5th corps was ordered back, forming a line in rear of the army and building new quarters.
The 6th corps was under marching orders, but did not leave as they were not needed. Camp life again passed very pleasantly, as quiet was resumed. A branch railroad was completed from the City Point and Petersburg Railroad to the Weldon Railroad, and supplies were forwarded in all kinds of weather without difficulty to all parts of the line. Occasionally the enemy shelled our trains as they passed, but our batteries opening theirs were soon silenced, as our ammunition was plenty and theirs scarce. Recruits now arrived rapidly, and the army was increased to one hundred and fifty thousand men. The enemy, by merciless conscription, had pressed every man and boy in the field capable of bearing arms, leaving none but the negroes at home to do the work. Each Friday there was an execution of some kind in the army; men were hung for deserting to the enemy, and others were shot for jumping bounties and then deserting. It soon became a common thing, but it was necessary as a lesson to others that these men should be executed. The troops had lain in camp some time, when Grant again attempted to take the South-side Road. The 2d corps followed by two divisions of the 5th corps, with the cavalry in advance and covering the left flank of the army, forced a passage of Hatcher's Run and moved up the north side of it towards the South-side Road, until the 2d corps and part of the cavalry reached the Boydton Plank Road where it crosses Hatcher's Run; at this point our advance was but six miles distant from the South-side Road, and the whistle of the enemy's engine could be plainly heard. But finding that we had not reached the end of the enemy's communications, and no place presented itself for a successful assault, it was determined to withdraw within our fortified line, and orders were given accordingly. On the return the enemy moved out across Hatcher's Run, and made a desperate attack on General Hancock's right and rear. Hancock immediately faced his corps to meet it, and after a bloody combat drove the enemy within his works, and withdrew that night to his old position.
From this time forward the operations in front of Richmond and Petersburg until the spring campaign of 1865 were confinedto the defence and extension of our lines, and to offensive movements for crippling the enemy's lines of communications, and to prevent his detaching any considerable force to send south. Visitors from the north again came in large numbers, among them several distinguished foreigners. Our lines were to them a wonder, as they thought it impossible for two armies to lie in such close proximity to each other without fighting all the time; but the past had taught the men that picket firing was but murder, and resulted in no advantage to either side. The men drilled daily and were inspected each Sunday. The spring campaign was looked forward to as a hard one, as it was supposed that Lee and Johnson combined, if once together, would move south, and we would have to follow. The tents of the men were ordered to be cleaned neatly, as several cases of small-pox had made their appearance. General Seymour commanding the division, was a strict disciplinarian, and orders were issued by him that were thought by the men to be useless; every non-commissioned officer was ordered to wear his chevrons, and if not obeying was immediately reduced; each man in the division was also ordered to wear his badge, and if any private was found without the blue cross, he was placed under arrest. Division headquarters were but a short distance from the troops, and were near the camp of the 50th New York engineers, they having the prettiest camp in the army. They built a splendid church, and negro minstrels were held nightly, officers of distinction visiting it, and divine service was forgotten; each night found the church full of men, who, if service had been held, would not have been found there.
Christmas was spent as usual dull and lonesome. Boxes were sent from home to the men, and those that had none fared well, as the rations given the men by the Government were plenty. The last day of the year was very rainy. Early in the morning the rebel pickets in front of the division made an attack, and surprised our men. The morning was dark and our men were driven back, but the reserve pickets soon formed and drove the rebels back in turn. Three men from the 9th New York were killed and several were captured. The firing soon ceased, and the last day of the year passed gloomily enough. The regiment was mustered in for four months pay by Colonel Janeway, and the members of the 14th spent the last day of the year very dull and lonesome in camp.
January 1st, 1865, was a dull New Year's to the men, for insteadof a warm dinner at home, the fare of the men was hard-tack and salt pork. The bands of the regiments were playing national airs. It was the Sabbath and all was as still as death; not a shot disturbed the silence of the day. The soldier as he thought of his home, contrasted that with camp life, and wondered when the war would end. Most of the headquarter officers were under the influence of liquor, but the regimental officers were unable to obtain whiskey and remained sober, as the orders of Gen. Seymour were very strict, that no whiskey should be sold at the brigade commissaries. It was feared that the enemy would make an attack at night, and orders were given the pickets not to sleep, as it was rumored in the southern papers that Lee was about to astonish the world by some bold movement, and what it was no one could tell. His movement was anxiously looked forward to by the men, as it was reported that he was heavily re-enforced by troops from General Hardee's command and from Breckinridge's. The rebels seemed to be in good spirits, and our men supposed something unusual had occurred, but it turned out that the rebel officers had furnished the men gunpowder and whiskey, and then ordered them to cheer in honor of some great victory, but what victory it was they knew not, neither did our men.
General Sherman was making sad havoc on southern soil, and the rebel soldiers, disheartened by repeated defeats, were discouraged, and they deserted in large numbers to our ranks. Proclamations were issued by the authorities at Washington and freely distributed among the rebel pickets, that any one of their number deserting would be sent within any part of our lines to his home, and paid for his musket and equipments; though many deserted to our ranks, there were double the number that went to the rear. The rebel soldiers were ordered to fire on all their men attempting to desert, but the most of them were anxious to leave, and fired their muskets in the air. Despondency now prevailed to a great extent among the rebels, and all felt that their cause was lost, while on our side the men were furnished with clothing in abundance, with plenty of rations, and were well contented. Guerillas and raiders were very active, hovering on our flank and rear; often with concealed batteries posted on a hill on the banks of the James, would fire on our boats as they passed to and fro from Washington to City Point. The river was lined with gunboats, but a few shells from our iron-clads soon drove them off.The most noted of those was Mosby; with picked men from Virginia, men that knew every road, his operations were very successful, but not so successful as the previous year, when our army was dependent upon a single track railroad from Washington to Brandy Station, as this passed the entire distance through a hostile country, and every mile had to be guarded by troops. Occasionally Mosby with his men would make a grand raid, and after destroying a portion of the track, would retire with but small loss and with considerable plunder, before our men could recover from their surprise; now our water communications needed but a few men on iron-clads, while the most of the troops were at the front. Heavy rains now set in, and nothing of importance occurred during the month of January. During this time Jefferson Davis visited Macon, Georgia, and made a speech, which was reported in the papers south, and soon became known to the whole country, as the men exchanged papers daily with the enemy in front of Petersburg. He disclosed his plans, thus enabling Grant to fully meet him. He also exhibited the weakness of supposing that an army that had been beaten and fearfully decimated in vain attempt at the defensive, could successfully undertake the offensive against the army that had so often defeated it, as he said in his speech that Lee would soon resume the offensive, and would drive the Potomac army from its almost impregnable hold on Richmond and Petersburg; but the future showed that this never was accomplished.
The rebel cause now Looked gloomy enough. Sherman had reached the sea coast, and the Confederacy was cut completely in two. Nothing more could be looked for in the southwest, and the whole attention of Grant and Lee was turned to this one point. In the latter part of January the enemy again attempted to surprise our pickets and break our lines if possible, but they were signally defeated in their plans and driven back with severe loss. In front of the 2d brigade of the 3d division was one of the largest forts on the line, mounting fifteen guns; it was named Fort Fisher, and was manned by the 9th New York Heavy Artillery. A large lookout some two hundred feet high was built near this fort for the purpose of witnessing the enemy's movements. It was reported that on a certain day the enemy were to shell this lookout; all preparations were made in Fort Fisher, the guns doubly shotted and turned upon the enemy's works, and upon the headquarters of General Longstreet, but ashort distance in the rear of their lines. The day passed and not a shot was fired, as they knew full well that our guns out-numbered theirs two to one, and if once opened would do terrible execution, as they had done heretofore. The breastworks at this point were nearer together than at any other part of the line, being but a few rods apart. Details were made from the various regiments daily to guard supplies from City Point, and to bring ordnance stores for the troops. The new recruits were also guarded to the front, and then furnished with arms and assigned to their different commands.
On the night of January 16th, the troops were formed in line of battle, as it was rumored that the enemy were about to attack; with extreme caution the men formed in line behind the works, but no attack was made. It was not known what move they would make, as their leaders were becoming desperate, and would not hesitate to sacrifice the lives of the men to accomplish their ends. The news of the capture of Fort Fisher was read to the troops, and cheer after cheer given for our army and navy. Gen. Butler was denounced as incompetent to command an army in the field; all honor was due Major General Terry for his bravery. One hundred guns were shotted and trained upon the enemy's works from Fort H—l as a salute. The enemy did not reply; they were crest-fallen enough, as Wilmington, their most important point, would soon fall, and like Fort Fisher would soon be occupied by United States troops.
On the 24th of January, the enemy made a desperate attempt to break through our water communications at City Point. Three gunboats moved down, and after a desperate fight with our shore batteries, they were compelled to fall back with the loss of one of their boats and another disabled. Our iron-clads had nearly all of them gone with the expedition to Fort Fisher. Lee hoped to take advantage of this, and lay City Point in ashes and destroy our base of supplies, thereby compelling Gen. Grant to fall back; but the shore batteries of one hundred pound guns did terrible execution, and with but small loss on our side, the enemy retired with heavy loss. For several months Gen. Butler had been digging Dutch Gap Canal, which had proved a failure, as the war ended before it was finished; he was relieved by order of General Grant, and ordered to report at Lowell, Massachusetts. The weather was now very cold, and the Potomac was frozen; often two and three days elapsed before the transports could arrivefrom Washington. The month of January passed dull enough. Desertions from the enemy were more numerous than ever, often one and two hundred coming over each night.
On the morning of February 1st, all was excitement in camp, as the troops were ordered to move out on the left of the line to Hatcher's Run. The sick were all sent to City Point, and preparations made to move with all the troops, with the exception of enough to hold the lines in our immediate front, which were strengthened by the pioneers. All preparations were made when a terrible storm arose, and the movement was abandoned. Montgomery Blair had been on a mission of peace to Richmond but had failed. President Lincoln had agreed to meet representatives from the Southern Confederacy, and arrange, if possible, terms of peace. Accordingly Vice President Stephens, Hunter and Campbell passed through the lines on February 2d, and met President Lincoln and Secretary Seward at Hampton Roads; but no terms could be agreed upon, as the enemy wished the recognition of the Southern Confederacy, their cry being independence or extermination. After a brief conference they returned to Richmond, and all hope of a speedy peace was abandoned.
The 67th Pennsylvania from the 3d division was filled with new recruits that had received large bounties. A great many of them deserted, and several of them were caught and sent back to division headquarters and placed in irons. They were tried by a military court-martial, and one of their number sentenced to be shot as a warning to others. Six of them had hid in the woods near City Point, and were constructing a raft for the purpose of escaping, but were captured, and one of their number named James Hicks, was sentenced to death. He was placed in close confinement in a tent with two guards over him, and was informed of his fate but bore it very composedly. He was furnished with good victuals, and attended by a Catholic priest from the 2d corps. He was also allowed to telegraph to his friends who interceded for him, and was finally pardoned by President Lincoln, and ever after made a good soldier, doing his duty well.
On the 5th of February, the 5th corps with two divisions of cavalry, moved out again to Hatcher's Run, on the Boydton Plank Road, for the purpose of lengthening our lines. After remaining out two days, the enemy in force attacked the 5th corps driving them back. The 1st division, 6th corps, was ordered to their support, and arrived in time to assist the 5th corps, drivingthe enemy back in return. The whole army was under marching orders but did not move, as nothing could be accomplished, and the 5th corps returned with the loss of one thousand men, several of the wounded dying from cold and exposure.
The rebels were now deserting at the rate of one hundred per day. The fall of Charleston was announced, causing gloom in the rebel army, but great rejoicing in ours, and the men now looked forward to the end of the war, it being currently reported that the enemy were to evacuate Petersburg and Richmond. Nearly four years had passed, and now our flag was floating over the battered walls of Fort Sumter and Charleston where the ordinance of secession was first passed. General Sherman was moving rapidly northward, and news of victories were constantly reaching us. The fall of Wilmington was their last important place, and they were now cornered, not knowing which way to move. The officers were now deserting as well as the men, bringing with them their side-arms and equipments.
General Grant deemed it of the utmost importance before a general movement of the armies operating against Richmond, that all communications North of the James River should be cut off, the enemy having withdrawn the bulk of their forces from the Shenandoah Valley, and sent it South up the valley, which, if successful, would accomplish a great deal towards the capture of Richmond. Ordering General Sheridan to move on Lynchburg, leaving a sufficient force to look after Mosby and his guerillas, he started from Winchester on the 27th of Feb. with two divisions of cavalry numbering five thousand each, and on the 1st of March he secured the bridge which the enemy attempted to destroy, across the middle fork of the Shenandoah at Mount Crawford, and entered Staunton on the 2d, the enemy having retreated to Waynesboro. Thence he pushed on to that place, where he found the enemy in force in an entrenched position under General Early, and without stopping to make a reconnoissance, an immediate attack was ordered, the position carried, and one thousand six hundred prisoners, eleven pieces of artillery and seventeen battle flags were captured; the prisoners under a strong escort were sent back to Winchester. After destroying a vast amount of property and railroads, he took up his line of march for the White House, following the canal towards Columbia, destroying every lock upon it and cutting the banks wherever practicable. He rested at Columbia one day, and sent information to General Grant of hiswhereabouts; an infantry force was sent to get possession of the White House, with supplies to meet him. Moving from Columbia in a direction to threaten Richmond, he crossed both North and South Anna Rivers, and after destroying all the bridges and many miles of railroad, proceeded down the north bank of the Pamunkey to White House, which place he reached on the 19th with his command in safety. After the long march by the cavalry over Winter roads, it was necessary to rest and refit at the White House. At this time the greatest uneasiness to the men was, the fear that Lee would leave his stronghold about Petersburg for the purpose of uniting with Johnson before driven out, or before our men were ready for pursuit, as Lee had the interior route and could form with Johnson, and with their forces combined, whip Sherman before our forces could get up.
As usual before a campaign, the troops were furnished with new clothing and extra rations. On the 24th of February the paymasters arrived, and the troops received four months' pay, their last payment in the field; but none knew it then, nor had the least idea of the war ending so soon. General Sheridan's raid had created a panic in Richmond, and Pegram's division was sent through Richmond at a double quick on Sunday morning, passing Libby Prison, and was seen by our prisoners; but they returned the next day, as Gen. Sheridan was safely at the White House strongly fortified against any attack. The pickets were ordered to watch the enemy closely, and if they attempted to leave at night, to follow them up. The 28th of February was the last day of Winter, and was rainy and disagreeable; the log shanties, or as the men called them, shebangs, were full of water, as this was the hardest rain there had been in some time. At division headquarters there were nineteen bounty jumpers heavily ironed, and under sentence of court martial; it was determined by the military court that one of them should die as a warning to the rest. Hicks had been pardoned by the President, and was at his regiment doing duty. Rebel officers now came in our lines, three and four each night; when the officers began to desert, there was not much to look for from the men.
Of the number of bounty jumpers under sentence of court martial, John Kelly, from the 67th Pennsylvania, was sentenced to be shot to death with musketry on Friday, the 10th of March. The rest were punished in various ways; some of them were sent to the Rip Raps, and others were to work on the fortificationsaround Fortress Monroe. As this was the first military execution in the division, it was hoped that he would be pardoned. His friends interposed in his behalf, but all to no purpose, and the order for his execution was given. The morning of Friday, March 10th, dawned clear and bright, and all were impressed with the solemn scene. The division was formed in line at nine o'clock about one mile from camp, to witness the sad event. He had been visited daily by the priest, and was prepared to die. At 10 o'clock he was led from the guard-house by the sergeant in charge of the prisoners from the 14th New Jersey, and the procession moved as follows: First, the band playing the dead march, followed by the prisoner sitting on his coffin with the priest and four pall-bearers, and an escort of twenty men marching with reverse arms to the scene of the execution. The division in line presented arms. After passing the troops, the band and firing party filed to the right, the prisoner and pall-bearers to the left. His sentence was then read to him, and the priest administered the sacrament; but he seemed totally indifferent, and as unmoved as if a spectator. He was then placed on his coffin with his arms and eyes bandaged, and exclaimed, "Fire low, boys, hit me in the heart and kill me at once." The command was given to fire, and eight balls entered his body; each one of them would have proved mortal. Four men were reserved in case he was not killed, but they were not needed, as he was instantly killed, a warning to all deserters. He was placed in his coffin and buried where he fell. The arrangements were conducted by the Provost Marshal, Major Brown; everything was in perfect order, and the division returned to their quarters.
It was now evident to all that the end of the rebellion was near at hand. Johnson was retreating from before Sherman, who, with the forces of Generals Terry and Schofield combined, was sweeping everything before them. Charleston and Wilmington in our hands, and all blockade running stopped, there was no hope for them. The last gun and the last article from England had reached them, and all hopes of foreign intervention long since abandoned. With their men deserting by hundreds, and all communication with Richmond and Petersburg severed, with the exception of two roads, and those insufficient to supply the armies within the defences of the rebel capital; the last raid of Sheridan had done them more injury than any previous one. Our army was large and well equipped, only waiting for the roads to permitan advance. The men dreaded a forward movement, as there was no way of flanking Lee; their works must be assaulted and carried at an immense loss of life if attempted, but a decisive blow must be struck and that soon.
The 17th of March being St. Patrick's day, it was largely celebrated by the Irish brigade, by racing, tumbling and jumping for the amusement of the rest; there were several accidents, and one or two were killed. On the 20th, the 1st division 6th corps was reviewed by General Meade. This was the finest day there had been in some time and the men presented a fine appearance. The New Jersey brigade was admired by all for its precision in marching, and for the noble bearing of the men. Several major-generals were present; also Admiral Porter. General Wheaton, the division commander, was mounted on a superb horse, with a splendid bridle and saddle presented to him by the men. At three o'clock the review was over, and the men marched back to their quarters.
All surplus baggage was now sent to the rear, as instructions for a general movement of the armies operating against Richmond were issued, and all sutlers, purveyors and citizens were ordered to leave within twenty-four hours. General Sherman moved from the White House, crossed the James, and formed a junction with the army of the Potomac in front of Petersburg.
The 14th regiment now numbered three hundred men for duty, commanded by Lieut. Colonel Janeway. The men had but a few months to stay, and were not anxious to again enter an engagement. The orders from Grant were for the men to move on the left, for the purpose of turning the enemy from their position around Petersburg. All preparations were how made for an immediate advance as soon as the weather would permit. The month of March with its colds and rains had nearly passed. Gen. Sherman had reached Goldsboro, and was resting his weary army. Johnson was in command of Hood's army, but like the army of Lee, his men were deserting in large numbers, as they deemed their cause lost; but their leaders determined to hold on to the last, and then, if unsuccessful, to leave the country.
The 6th corps had been so far recruited that it numbered nearly twenty thousand men. After the battle of Monocacy the 14th numbered but ninety-five men for duty. The regiment had been repeatedly recruited, and now, with three hundred men and eighteen officers, was ready for the campaign. A great many ofthe men had received furloughs, but there were some who had not seen their homes since enlisting. Of the number that had left New Jersey nearly three years before, there but few remained; numbers had been killed, and numbers were at their homes discharged on account of wounds. At the hospitals many poor fellows lay in pain that would willingly rejoin their comrades if able; there were scarcely any of the old boys left that had not been wounded.
On the 23d of March, Lee passed along the whole line of the rebel army, inspecting and reviewing the troops. There was very little display of the old enthusiasm with which his presence was wont to be greeted, as the men were discouraged and saw no farther use of fighting. Desertions were still numerous, and a new arrangement was made by the rebel officers; instead of details from the several regiments as heretofore, a whole regiment was placed at once on picket. They believed that this would prevent desertions. But this new device was wholly without effect, as whole companies would desert at once, bringing with them their arms and equipments.
The troops were all in their respective positions, with no positive orders to move, nor was it scarcely thought that the enemy would dare attack our position. Early on the morning of the 25th of March, when least expected, they assaulted our lines in front of the 9th corps, and so unexpected was the attack, that ere our men could recover from their surprise the enemy had captured Fort Steadman and part of the line to the right and left of it, established themselves and turned the guns of the fort upon us. But the troops on either flank held their ground until the reserves were brought up, and after a desperate battle the enemy was driven back with heavy loss in killed and wounded, and two thousand prisoners. They paid dearly for their advance, as it was their intention to break our lines, if possible. General Meade at once ordered the other corps to advance and feel the enemy in their respective fronts. The campaign had now commenced, which soon ended in the downfall of the rebellion. It was hastened by the enemy, as General Grant would not have moved so soon.
The whole army was now in motion and winter quarters abandoned; pushing forward, the 2nd and 6th corps captured and held the enemy's strongly intrenched picket line with heavy loss. The enemy made desperate attempts to retake this line but without success; our losses were heavy but the enemy's still greater. Eversince General Grant halted in front of Petersburg, General Lee had been watching for some weak point in our lines where he might hope for success, and not waste his men against our strongly fortified line. He took his time because it was necessary to be very careful, he could not afford to lose a chance or a single man and yet this point where he made his attack was apparently on the supposition that Gen. Grant had weakened his lines to help Sherman, as his attack was in heavy force; but the whole affair was a splendid one for us as they were repulsed with great slaughter, their loss in killed, wounded and prisoners amounting to nearly six thousand men, and this at that time was a terrible loss to Lee. The nights were spent with anxiety by the men, lest each morning should bring the report that the enemy had retreated during the night before. It was firmly believed that Lee would retreat, and with Johnson and him combined, a long, tedious and expensive campaign consuming most of the Summer, would become necessary. By moving out of quarters, the army would be in a better condition for pursuit, and would at least by the destruction of the Danville Railroad, retard the concentration of the two armies of Generals Lee and Johnson, and cause the enemy to abandon much material that they might otherwise save.
It was not fully ascertained at first the amount of damage done by the enemy in their attack on the 25th. They had massed four divisions under General Gordon, and when our men were asleep, made a furious attack on our line in front of the 9th corps, capturing the fort and guns, and at the same time they attacked Fort Haskell, but were repulsed with heavy loss. President Lincoln and lady were present, and witnessed the fight at a distance. For several days, the division commanded by General Gordon had held a position in front of the 9th corps, and at midnight they were silently and promptly formed for a charge; everything was now ready, and the order forward was given without raising an alarm or a suspicion. The rebel troops were out safely to their line of works thrown up for the protection of their skirmishers. At a given signal they bounded over these works and rapidly cutting gaps in ourChevaux de Frise, pressed on with a yell towards our lines. The attack being sudden and totally unexpected, and made in almost overwhelming force, caused our skirmish line to give way before our reserves could get up. The rebels, confident of success, pressed on with vigor and succeeded in breaking ourline at a point near Fort Steadman; reaching our abattis they poured a terrific volley in our lines, breaking through on the left; they captured the fort by charging from the rear. So rapidly was this accomplished that the officer in command of the fort was captured with a portion of his men. Re-enforcements soon arrived from the other corps, and a terrible volley was poured into the enemy's ranks, who were now bent only on plunder; they could not long remain under such heavy fire and at last were compelled to fall back. Our infantry flanked the fort and cut off a large body of the rebel troops, that were commanded in person by Gen. Gordon, who led the attack. As they fell back they were literally slaughtered by our men, as grape and cannister were poured in their retreating ranks. This was their last hope, and crest-fallen, they fell back to their lines with a loss of over six thousand men.
Just four hours after the repulse of the rebel attack on the right of our line, the thunder of artillery and the crash of musketry again rolled loudly on the chilly March air. This time, however, everything was changed, the sound came from the left, not from the right; we were now the attacking party, not the rebels, and the ground we won was not recovered by them. General Grant, angry at their boldness, determined to let them know that the Potomac army was yet as ready as ever, and the 6th corps, which never knew the word fail, was ordered to the assault for the purpose of preventing the rebels from massing their troops, and at the same time to ascertain if possible their strength; advancing in three lines, the enemy's entire skirmish line was captured. They had erected a number of rifle pits in front of their main line; they were driven out of these works and compelled to fall back or else be captured; several surrendered at once as they were anxious to enter our lines. The position from which the attack was made by the 6th corps, was at the left of our line and near Fort Fisher; the thirty pound guns doing terrible execution. At two o'clock in the morning, Major-General Wright and staff reached Fort Fisher, where he was joined by Generals Wheaton, Seymour, Getty, Keifer and other 6th corps officers. The picket line was now held by the 10th Vermont and 14th New Jersey, supported by the 110th and 122d Ohio regiments. The order forward was given, and the first assault was made by the 10th and 14th, under command of Colonel George B. Davison, of the 10th Vermont. The rebel position was charged with great gallantry and success, entering and occupying the line assaulted. The rebelswere now aware of the weakness of the attacking party, as the two regiments advanced, and they soon massed a column of troops to drive them back; but the 3d division of the 6th corps was on hand and gave them such a volley that they fell back in confusion, and the entire line remained in our possession. The loss in the 14th regiment was comparatively small, as the fighting did not continue long. The artillery in the different forts by this time became warmly engaged with the rebel batteries, and a company of the 9th N. Y. Heavy Artillery, of the 3d division, sent a shell with such accuracy as to blow up a caisson in one of the rebel forts; shells were screaming through the air, and away to the left volleys of musketry told that the 2nd corps was now heavily engaged. Part of the 3d division was placed on the left of the line with the 2d corps. It was composed of the 10th Vermont, 14th New Jersey, 110th and 122d Ohio, 6th Maryland and part of the 9th N. York Heavy Artillery; this composed nearly all the 2d brigade, with two regiments from the 1st brigade.
The line was now formed for another assault, and when everything was in readiness the flag of the 1st brigade of Colonel Truex was waved as a signal to move forward. From the parapet of Fort Fisher the blue cross of the 3d division, 6th corps, waved, and from thousands of brave men about to risk life and limb came back a ringing cheer, and as onward they swept many a God-speed followed them. The batteries on both sides were hard at work, and not many minutes elapsed before the sharper ring of small arms was heard.
The line was fast closing on the rebel position, and their outer works were soon reached. Major Prentiss, from the 6th Maryland, was the first to enter their works. Scores of rebels preferred capture to running away, and as soon as they saw our troops inside of their lines, they threw down their arms and gave themselves up as prisoners of war. The loss on both sides was heavy; the 14th, as usual, fought well, losing their share of men in killed and wounded. The result of this fight proved that the enthusiasm and energy of Lee's troops had dwindled down to zero. They fought like hopeless, not desperate, men; the spirit which animated them two years ago had been broken by repeated defeats, and tamed by short rations. The new position gained was, on Sunday morning, March 26, held by the entire 6th corps, ready to repel any attack the enemy would make. The 14th was again on picket, and the long night passed slowly away, without a shotalong the entire line; the enemy was badly beaten and was quiet the rest of the night. Our men fought splendidly and successfully, and at night there was a wide-spread enthusiasm among the troops at the glorious success of the day. The enemy began the sanguinary work.
The Spring campaign was now opened with favorable auspices to our side, with a prospect of soon ending the war. The ground gained by the 6th corps was held during the next three days, the lines having been advanced one mile and a half from our former position. The 14th was now relieved from picket; tired and weary, the men lay down to sleep, having had none for nearly three days. The rebel dead, as they lay strewn around, were but skin and bone, a fact not to be wondered at, when it is remembered that for the last six months their chief article of diet had been a small quantity of corn meal daily.
From the night of the 29th to the morning of the 31st, the rain fell in such torrents as to make it impossible to move a wheeled vehicle, except when corduroy roads were laid in front of them. On the 30th, General Sheridan had advanced as far as Five Forks, where he found the enemy in force, and awaited re-enforcements. In the meantime, the 2d and 6th corps were holding the line they had captured without any farther fighting, awaiting orders to advance. The men were now confident that the enemy's main works could be carried, and were clamorous to be led on; but the rain and roads would not permit an advance.
On the morning of April 1st, General Sheridan, re-enforced by the 5th corps, drove the enemy back on Five Forks, capturing all their artillery and six thousand prisoners. In front of the 2d and 6th corps there was nothing but picket firing during the day; at night a heavy cannonade commenced, and was kept up until morning. Gen. Grant now ordered an attack along the entire line; accordingly, the 6th corps was massed and formed in three divisions. At three o'clock on Sunday morning, without a noise, the column was formed for a charge, with the 9th corps in reserve to follow the 6th, if successful. General Sheridan, with his cavalry and the 5th corps, were to attack at the same time, the result being well known to our readers. At four o'clock the order to move forward was given, and the 3d division in advance, with a yell charged the enemy's works, and their entire line was captured with many prisoners and guns. The 6th corps swept everything before them; the wildest enthusiasm prevailed, and the menfought reckless of life and limb. Three thousand prisoners were captured by the 6th corps alone. There was a tremendous struggle during the day in woods, fields, hills and valleys, and on the roads and creeks a few miles south and west of Petersburg, and from twenty to thirty miles beyond the rebel Capital; never was such a scene presented to the eye. The whole rebel army was now in full retreat before our victorious troops. Petersburg was captured by the 6th corps and the Southside road reached and torn up for many miles. The result of this day's fight was the capture of Petersburg with twelve thousand prisoners, many thousand stand of arms, and the utter rout of the rebel army. The most wicked of all rebellions had now absolutely received its death-blow, and was so positively crushed that no power on earth could save it. Lee's retreat proved an utter rout. At midnight on Sunday, Richmond was evacuated, Jeff. Davis taking the rail for Danville; the lower portion of the city was burned and totally destroyed. For four long years had our brave men fought, and now the rebel Capital was in our possession, General Wetsell entering and occupying it on Monday morning at daylight. The rebel army seemed to hold together feebly before the battles, but the fierce struggle of Saturday and Sunday had completely used them up. We had taken twelve thousand prisoners in the two days, and there were twelve thousand more killed and wounded. Only one-half of Lee's army was now left; such a force could not long stand alone with a victorious army in pursuit. It was now Lee's intention to join Johnson if possible, and such a run would cost them ten thousand more men.
While the 6th corps was holding the captured picket line without much fighting, there was severe fighting on the left of the line. It was reserved for this corps to divide the formidable rebel army, which for so many months defied our power to drive them from the city of Petersburg. There were two objects in view; one to create a division in favor of Gen. Sheridan, and the other to cut the rebel army in two and destroy the far-famed Southside road. The first notice given the men was at nine o'clock, when a dispatch came from Gen. Meade, telling of the success of Gen. Sheridan on the left, and his heavy capture of prisoners, and ordered the troops to be massed at three o'clock on Sunday morning as was heretofore stated, and charge the rebel line. The pickets were also ordered to advance in front of the different divisions, but did not succeed in arousing a suspicion among themthat we were to attack. The rebels showed how far they were from suspecting a movement, by calling out to know if we were celebrating April fool's day at that time in the morning. The order given for the assault was carried out very punctually, owing to the fact that the greater the surprise the greater would be our chance of success; the troops therefore moved outside of the works at two o'clock. The moon had gone down, and the night was intensely dark; a thin chilly mist arose from the ground, which served still farther to conceal our movements from the enemy. On the extreme left of the line was the 1st brigade, with Colonel Truex in command, and the 14th New Jersey on the right of the brigade under Colonel Janeway. In forming the line, it was Gen. Wright's intention to attack in such overwhelming force that failure would be impossible; then when the column had made good its entrance into the rebel works, the divisions on the right and left might deploy, and drive the enemy from their works as effectually as if a fresh corps had attacked. To co-operate with the attacking column, Gen. Park, with the 9th corps, was held in reserve, while Sheridan, far away to the left, was thundering on their flank. Just before the attack, Gen. Wright and staff rode up to the picket line; a match was struck and the time ascertained; it wanted just fifteen minutes of four o'clock, and an officer was sent back to Fort Fisher with orders to fire a signal gun exactly at four o'clock. A few shots were fired by the enemy as the match was struck, and then all was still; no object was visible at a distance of a few yards, and of the thousands of men massed, not one could be seen by the enemy's line.
Suddenly a bright flash leaped out into the darkness, and a loud report from a twelve pounder rolled in the air; a minute elapsed and a similar sound came from the left some ten miles away, telling that the signal was understood. The veterans of the different divisions were now pushed forward, and the dull crash of musketry and the flash of artillery told that the battle had begun. The enemy was surprised, but soon rallied, and a terrific strife now took place. The entire line from right to left was heavily engaged. Daylight dawned slowly to the men, whose hearts were already relieved, as it was noticed that the enemy's firing became more feeble. Gen. Wright's assertion was fulfilled, that he would go through them like a knife, as their entire line was captured, together with thousands of prisoners, numerous pieces of artillery and many battle flags. It was the most completeachievement of the war, and the first rays of the morning's sun beamed on the ramparts of the captured forts with the rebel army in full retreat. To retain what we had gained was necessary to gain more; for this purpose, the 3rd division was deployed to the left from forts on other parts of the line. The rebels were already firing on our men, and it was necessary to capture those forts and silence the guns. The two brigades under command of Colonels Truex and Keifer, pushed gallantly forward, and Gen. Wright after assuring himself of the safety of that part of the line, turned his attention to the left. The division took possession of a portion of the rebel lines, and soon struck the Southside road, destroying it for over ten miles. Later in the day when our men had completely cleared the rebels out of that part of the line, the work of destroying the road was resumed. General Seymour continued pushing toward the rebels left with the 3d division, and at one point had as severe a fight as any which occurred during the day. The rebels had a battery of six guns, two twenty pounders and four light field pieces, which they served in magnificent style. Our line was rapidly advanced and a charge made by the 1st brigade, and six more guns were added to the number already captured. From this point our progress to the left was comparatively easy, as the enemy were in full retreat. Soon a line of glittering bayonets were seen advancing towards us, and Major-General Gibbons informed Gen. Wright that the advancing column belonged to the 24th corps.
The 6th corps had by this time reached the vicinity of Hatcher's Run, and it was decided to right-about-face and march for Petersburg by the Boydton Plank Road. The troops had but commenced moving towards Petersburg, when a hearty cheer was given by the rear regiments. The cause was soon ascertained to be the arrival of Lieut. General Grant and staff, and as soon as the soldiers saw the Lieutenant-General, they shouted, "Boys, here's General Grant, three cheers for him," and all along the line as he rode on his black horse, Jeff. Davis, the men cheered him with the wildest enthusiasm; he rode with head uncovered, and bowed his thanks for the soldiers' hearty greeting. On seeing Generals Wright, Seymour, Wheaton and other 6th corps officers, he shook hands with great heartiness, and after spending a short time in conversation, he proceeded towards Petersburg, the corps following rapidly. On reaching the place, preparations were at once commenced to attack the works immediately surroundingPetersburg. For this purpose Gen. Seymour of the 3d division was sent forward to the right of the line; Gen. Getty to the centre, and Gen. Wheaton to the left. Artillery was put into position, and soon the battle raged with even greater fury than in the morning. The rebels seemed determined to defend their forts to the last, but nothing could withstand the tried valor of General Wright's troops. The long lines were gradually closed on the forts and garrisons, and they were compelled to give way before the hard fighting of the 6th corps. Until after nightfall the contest continued, and the fate of Petersburg was decided. Major C. K. Prentiss, of the 6th Maryland, was the first to enter the rebel works, but was unfortunately shot through the chest a short time afterward. A rebel lieutenant was picked up wounded, who gave his name as Lieut. Prentiss, of the 2d Maryland regiment; he was a younger brother of the major, whom he had not seen since the rebellion broke out; they were both placed in the hospital together, and their wounds dressed. The meeting between the brothers was very affecting, causing many to shed tears. Our losses in killed and wounded, considering the hard fighting, were very light, as the rebels aimed too high for their fire to be destructive. Night found us in the possession of Petersburg, with an immense quantity of stores and ammunition that the enemy had left in their haste. Lee with the remnant of his army, had fled in the direction of Danville, a demoralized disheartened force. The loss in the 14th did not exceed one hundred in killed and wounded. The troops fought well, but none better than the 14th New Jersey. Led by a brave officer, Lieut.-Colonel Janeway, they with the rest caused many a rebel to bite the dust, and with about one hundred and fifty men left, participated in the attack.
The charge of Major-Gen. Wright's veterans under cover of the darkness and mist, preceding the break of day, will forever live in history as one of the grandest and most sublime actions of the war. With irresistible force they broke through the rebel line, in which months of labor had been expended, and then turning the rebel guns on other hostile forts, they swept along the rebel line for a distance of five miles, capturing men, guns and colors. When it is remembered how much depended on them, and what would have been the consequence if they failed, the country will treasure as household words the names of Wright, Getty, Seymour, Wheaton, and other generals who led the oft-tried but never defeated men of the 6th corps to victory, on the morning of Sunday, April 2d.
Under cover of the darkness on Sunday night, Lee withdrew the remnant of his army and fell back across the Appomattox. The bridge across the river was partially burned by them, but the flames were soon extinguished by our troops, who commenced entering Petersburg shortly after sunrise on Monday morning, and were objects of great curiosity to the negroes of the city. They capered around our men in a most ludicrous manner, and at every fresh arrival yelled out, "Dar comes de clebber yankees." The stores were all closed, and the city seemed to have left off doing business. Our enterprising news boys entered the city along with the soldiers, and almost before the rear guard of the rebels had crossed the river, the New York Herald, of March 31st, was sold in the streets of Petersburg.
The final movement in pursuit of the balance of Lee's army commenced at daylight. It was General Grant's intention to use them up entirely in case the charge of the 6th corps should prove a success, and accordingly the 2d, 5th, 6th and 24th corps, together with the cavalry under General Sheridan, were put in motion to find the rebels. The camps around Petersburg were left, and the whole of the grand army of the Potomac was fairly en route by eight o'clock, with all their teams, ambulances, pack mules, droves of cattle, and all other necessities for campaigning. After long weary waiting around Petersburg for nearly nine months, the change was agreeable, and the recent victories added considerably to the good spirits of the men. The country passed through was in a fine state of cultivation, and the bright green of early vegetation looked very cheerful when contrasted with the brown sandy waste we had looked on for so long a time. The 6th corps moved in the following order: Getty's division ahead, Wheaton in the centre, and Seymour with the 3d division in the rear.
During the day the troops marched forty miles; night found the advance at Mount Pleasant Church. Hundreds of rebels had been picked up on the march. The roads were very muddy from the recent rains, and on no other occasion could the men have marched as far, but all knew the necessity of capturing Lee's army, and all were willing to do their best. During a temporary halt in the afternoon, Gen. Meade passed the 6th corps on his way to the front. He was recognized by the men and greeted with loud and enthusiastic cheers; for a short time the scene was one that could be better imagined than described, so great was theenthusiasm inspired by the presence of the Commander of the army of the Potomac. Caps were waved and cheers given in a manner which is only heard and seen where thousands of soldiers are greeting a commander who has won their confidence and esteem. General Meade returned the greeting of the 6th corps by repeated bows, although compelled to bestow considerable attention on the management of the spirited horse he was riding. On reaching the spot where Gen. Wright was standing, he reined in his horse, and said to him, laughingly, "The 6th corps men are in such good spirits that they seem determined to break my neck;" to which the General replied, that "He imagined they were proud of their success," when Gen. Meade, with much feeling said, "Yes, we all know,and the country shall know, that the 6th corps did the business; to them we owe our success in breaking the rebel line, and we feel very grateful to them for it."
On the 6th at daylight, the 2d, 5th and 6th corps were at Burksville Station, and Lee was near Amelia Court House. The enemy again made a stand, when they were attacked by General Sheridan with his cavalry, and the 1st and 3d divisions of the 6th corps. A desperate battle was again fought, which resulted in the capture of six rebel generals, Ewell, Pegram, Barton, DeBoise, Corse and Fitz Hugh Lee, several thousand prisoners, fourteen pieces of artillery, and thousands of small arms. Lee's army was now closely pressed, and nothing could save him from capture. The troops moving down the road on a parallel with the enemy, they were again attacked at Sailor's Creek. The 3d division in advance was moved up the road held by the enemy, which was carried by the division. By this time Wheaton's division was put into position as rapidly as possible on the left of the line. While these operations were going on, similar ones were occurring at other points. By bold and strategic movements Grant had almost surrounded Lee, and his surrender was speedily looked for. The men were exhausted and needed rest, but there was none until Lee's army had been captured. The lines of the 1st and 3d divisions were again advanced, and swept down the road for a distance of two miles. Arriving at a deep and difficult creek, the enemy were found in line on the opposite side; they were immediately attacked and driven back from Sailor's Creek. In this engagement our loss was heavy, especially in the 1st division, as the men were compelled to cross under heavy fire. The 14th was now rapidly diminished in numbers, with only about 100 menleft; but those that were left were as full of fight as ever. The rebel General A. P. Hill was killed in front of Petersburg while urging on his men; his loss was felt by them, as he was one of their leading corps commanders. Ewell was in our hands, and of the four leading generals of the rebel army, Lee and Longstreet only were left.
The pursuit was kept up the entire week following the capture of Richmond and Petersburg, in which the troops marched over two hundred miles. It was soon found that the enemy had fled from Sailor's Creek to the north side of the Appomattox; but so close was the pursuit that our forces secured the bridge, and immediately crossed the 6th corps at Farmersville. Feeling that Gen. Lee's chance of escape was utterly hopeless, and his men dropping out at every mile, the following dispatch was sent to him by General Grant;
To Robert Lee, Com'g Army of C. S. of America:
General:
The result of the last week must convince you of the hopelessness of further resistance on the part of the army of Northern Virginia. In this struggle I feel that it is so, and regard it as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility of any further effusion of blood, by asking of you the surrender of that portion of the Confederate States army known as the army of Northern Virginia.
U. S. GRANT,Lieut. General.
To this General Lee replied:
I received your note of this date. Though not entertaining the opinion you express on the hopelessness of further resistance on the part of the army of Northern Virginia, I reciprocate your desire to avoid useless effusion of blood, and therefore will treat with you on terms of surrender.
R. E. LEE,General.
While this correspondence was carried on, the troops were not idle, and Sunday morning found both armies again in line at Appomattox Court House. Writing and fighting at the same time, General Grant showed that he was more than a match for Lee; just as he would have stopped any attempt on Lee's part to escape through his lines, so he stopped his attempt to escape from him. In the afternoon an arrangement was made for an interview with the rebel General. General Grant offered to parole all of Lee's army, and give the officers their side arms and private property. Lee at once accepted this proposition and the fighting ceased, and the war was practically ended; so in a few days, andby means of a few short letters, the dreadful contest which had disturbed the country for four years, was brought to a close, and the whole rebel army was in our hands.
The troops were fighting at Appomattox Court House, and knew nothing of the correspondence of Grant and Lee, when orders came for a suspension of hostilities for two hours. At two o'clock in the afternoon General Meade rode along the lines, and with hat in hand, exclaimed, "Boys, Lee has surrendered." At first it was not credited, but coming from the mouth of General Meade, it could not be doubted, and one continuous shout was given. The men were in ecstasies, and could scarcely restrain themselves; tremendous cheers were given and caps were thrown in the air. Men hugged and squeezed each other, and all felt that the war was over.
The stipulations for the surrender were carried into effect, and the rebel army was no longer an organized body of men. Twenty-five thousand men were all that were left, and ten thousand of them were unarmed. They were permitted to return to their homes, which they gladly did, and the army of Northern Virginia ceased to exist. It could scarcely be believed that Lee had surrendered, and while the men were marching and fighting, Grant and Lee were in correspondence with each other. Sunday, the 9th of April, will ever be remembered, especially by the soldiers of the Potomac army. In the short space of fifteen days, Lee had been driven from his position in front of Petersburg and compelled to retreat; Richmond in our possession, and he finally compelled to surrender to General Grant.
The 5th corps and one division of cavalry were ordered to remain at Appomattox Court House, until the paroling of the surrendered army was completed and to take charge of the public property. The remainder of the army immediately returned to Petersburg, but were ordered to halt at Burksville and enter camp; the men were greatly in need of rest and rations. Once more tents were placed on a line as before. Nothing was talked of but the recent victories, and the people North were rejoicing; guns were fired throughout the country in honor of our success. Too much praise cannot be given to the privates and officers of the Potomac army, and to our noble leader, Grant.
With but one hundred men for duty, the 14th entered camp at Burksville, with bronzed features and soiled garments, covered with Virginia mud; they looked for a speedy return to theirhomes. All that was possible for them to do they had done, and New Jersey cannot but be proud of such a noble band of heroic men. Commencing on the river from which the Potomac army derived its name, until the surrender of Lee at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, all have a proud record for having done their full share in restoring our Union as it was.
Johnson had not yet surrendered, and as each day passed reports were circulated among the men, that the Potomac army was to march in his rear. Scarcely had the men commenced to rejoice at their success, when there came a blow that was more terrible than any defeat. In camp at Burkesville the men little knew what calamity was to befall the nation. A dispatch was sent from Washington that our beloved President had been assassinated. Our noble leader who for the last four years had guided our nation in the midst of war was foully stricken down by the assassin's hand. Rejoicing was turned into mourning, and the men when fully aware that Lincoln was no more, were clamorous to move on Gen. Johnson, and with vows of vengeance, determined if possible to avenge his death. Gloom now prevailed among the men, as he was beloved by friend and foe. But a few days before he was at the front, and by his presence cheered the men on to victory; now he lay in the cold embrace of death. The Southern leaders, now fleeing from their homes, were the instigators of this horrible crime. All business was suspended in the army on the day of his burial. Jeff. Davis had fled, and at Danville stopped long enough to make a speech. He told his followers that their cause was not yet lost; that the rebel capital had been evacuated for the purpose of concentrating their armies; he did not then know that Lee had surrendered his army to Grant. Remaining a few hours at Danville he proceeded South, and was finally captured in the disguise of a female—a fitting end for such a leader.