[cover]

W. W. Gramling;
May 23rd 1864.

Columbia Hospital,
Washington
D.C.

Perpetual
Diary.

A. Liebenroth & Von Auw,
25 Beekman Street,
New York.

Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1862, by
A. LIEBENROTH & VVON AUW,
in the Clerk's Office of the District of Court of the United States,
for the Southern District of New York

Calendar for 1864.

[Correspondence Notes]

Jan 1. 1865

The first day of the week, month and year it brings forth cold, snow and clouds, also a great deal of sick-ness in camp. Am sleeping by my self [sic] new bunkmate is improveing [sic].

Jan 2. 1865

Fair but very cold. Can hear almost any thing [sic] now. Exchange been agreed upon and every thing [sic] else that is good. Sherman has left Sav, and gone to Port-Royal.

Jan 3. 1865

Weather has moderated a great deal from reports confirmed. My vaxination [sic] has taken finely, very sickly in camp now. Progressing pretty well in French.

Jan 4. 1865

Cloudy and a little snow and very cold. Health very good. Arm is pretty sore and is still inflamed. Had quite a fight in my ward this morning between Dunn and Harper about insulting language.

Jan 5. 1865

Perfect quetness [sic] has reingned [sic] throuout [sic] the day. No news of any kind. Still very cold. Wrote to Irvin today again every thing [sic] is perfectly white with snow. Marc Kannon is my bed fellow now.

Jan 6. 1865

Great deal warmer, every thing [sic] is still frozen. Snowing this evening pretty rappidly [sic]. No news only continued rumors on exchange. Cay is improving rapidly.

Jan 7. 1865

Heavy snow last night, not so very cold. Have been trying to get a permit together to leve [sic] after a box. No news of interest, all quiet and dull.

Jan 8. 1865

This has been a very prety [sic] but cold day. I get three meals a day now which makes me a plenty. Savanah [sic] has cer-tainly [sic] gone up. Health as good as it ever was.

Jan 9. 1865

Cloudy but warm ar [sic] pleasant. No news today, sargeants [sic] get 3 rations per day. Bread and coffee for dinner. No school today.

Jan 10. 1865

Cloudy and sleeing [sic] but the weather is quit [sic] pleasant. No news of interest that can be relied upon, reported that Beauregard has whiped [sic] Sherman and Hood [has also defeated] Thomas but I don't believe it.

Jan 11. 1865

Fair and quite pleasant and got my permit and wrote S Sawyer, called her cousin. I am progressing in French pretty well. Strong rumers [sic] of an exchange again there seems to be but very little truth in it.

Jan 12. 1865

Weather remains fair and moderate, every thing is white with snow. Small pox still rage-ing, carry new cases to hospital nearly every day.

Jan 13. 1865

Weather broken but moderate. Prisoners are generally in better spirits now than they have been yet, respecting an exchange. Health remains quite good.

Jan 14. 1865

A.M. Weather quite pleasant but cloudy. Reported that 15 commissioners from each house has been appointed to negociate [sic] for peace. P.M. Snowing and a gooddeal [sic] colder.

Jan 15. 1865

Cloudy and pretty cold. No news of worth note. Sending cases of smallpox to the Hos every day, as far as I can learn it is generally very light.

Jan 16. 1865

Weather broken and quite cold. We have had no coal to keep fire, today. No school today. Got the scab knocked off my arm again today. Oh, it looks quite bad. No news, all quiet.

Jan 17. 1865

Cloudy and very cold. Sick last night and today and feel a little better this evening but not well, had diareah [sic] and fever. Had all the oath takers up today to ascertain what details they want. It is said they intend giving all the details to them

Jan 18. 1865

Fair but still cold. Nothing of interest. Getting well again. White-washed the mess room today, no school. Uncle J is well.

Jan 19. 1865

Every thing remains the same. Weather very cold and broken. Reported that Fort Fisher has fallen. Health of the camp remains about the same, smallpox still raging. No coffee for dinner.

Jan 20. 1865

Fair and very pleasant. No change in things generally, no news of interest. Progressing slowly. Heard from home today, Snipes received a letter from Uncle John Sept 18th 1864

Jan 21. 1865

Cloudy but a litter warmer. No news of interest, every thing still white with snow. The school it getting along finely now, health very good.

Jan 22. 1865

Had considerable snow again last night, not very cold. Reported that the authorties [sic] have agreed to parole all prisoners. Am not feeling very well this evening, my feet are frost bit again. Lady in camp today.

Jan 23. 1865

Snowing all day not very cold. No news, every thing very quiet. A Dixie mail came a few days sense [sic]. I have not had a letter yet. Arm is getting well, smallpox still very bad.

Jan 24. 1865

Cloudy but not very cold. Read a letter from Matt yesterday all well but Pa. several deaths. No school today nor no news of interest, all dull.

Jan 25. 1865

Fair and pretty pleasant, great deal of talk of an exchange, great many believe it. No other news. Bake oven caved in, have to eat crackers now. Wrote to Matt today. Health very good.

Jan 26. 1865

Cloudy, no snow nor rain and not very cold. Reported that Buffalo was burnt last night. Supposed to be done by the raiders from Canada. Every thing is quiet. 2000 prisoners sent from Point Lookout. Worked on bunk today.

Jan 27. 1865

No news today, very quiet and dull. I read a letter from Pa Oct 26 and one from Matt of the 30th Oct 1864, all well but Pa.

Jan 28. 1865

My arm is nearly well from or of vaxination. Bile [sic] on my back. Snowing today a little, not very cold. No news. Building a smallpox hospital on the opposite side of a creek in south west cener [sic].

Jan 29. 1865

Cloudy but tolerably pleasant. Some of the Fort Fisher prisoners came in today looking quite bad and dirty. Received a letter from Mrs. Sawyer, box on the way. Still going to Sunday school and also day school.

Jan 30. 1865

More prisoners today from Fort Fisher. Cousin M. W. Gramling killed in the contest. No news worthy relating, all quiet. Still getting hardtack

Jan 31. 1865

No news today. Getting bread again, my rations reduced. Cloud [sic] but weather moderat [sic]. Prisoners say all the officers were drunk at Fort Fisher. As a general thing this has been a very pleasant month considering the latitude, though there has been snow on the ground all the time good many days the ice did not thaw one particle. Health had been very good also and rations pretty fair, prisoners are generally in pretty good spirits though the exchange question has died out entirely. Kerby Smith is reported to be sent to Mexico with his army, a lie.

Feb 1. 1865

Cloudy but no rain, quite pleasant. Exchange question considerably agitated again. Most all the wards have two coal stoves in them now, get 3 nail kegs of coal per day for each one.

Feb 2. 1865

Fair and quite pleasant beautiful senery [sic], mountains all around and perfectly white with snow. Received box and contents today from Mrs. Sawyer and a pair of girl's draws [sic] (Astonishing).

Feb 3. 1865

Very cold and cloudy. Coale [sic] out. No school today, nothing new. Fort Fisher prisoners are applying to take the oath. Rations still small.

Feb 4. 1865

Cloudy today and considerably warmer, good deal of sleet and rain last night. Exchange question agitated again. Wrote to Irvin. Very wet day. No change in things generally.

Feb 5. 1865

Very blustery and un-pleasant, thank God the exchange is about to commence at last. Have been taking names today. Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Missouri are to go first with the sick.

Feb 6. 1865

Cloudy but pretty pleasant. Still fixing up the paroles. 9 months sense [sic] I was captured, in good hopes of getting back to Dixie. Uncle and myself are well.

Feb 7. 1865

A.M. Cloudy and moderate. No person allowed to go to Dixie who has applied to take the oath. I entertain very good hopes of gtting [sic] back soon. Col Moore says it is a general exche [sic], France seems to be medling [sic]with affairs. P.M. Snowing very fast.

Feb 8. 1865

Heavy snow last night, cloudy and moderate today. Reaked [sic] snow off the mess room. Nothing more about the exchange. Currently reported that the fist [sic] load will leave tomorrow. Next Monday take balance as they came here.

Feb 9. 1865

Fair and tolerably pleasant. No prisoners left yet. Nothing new, every thing very quiet. Health remains quite good. Having some very pretty rings made.

Feb 10. 1865

Fair and very cold. No prisoners yet. 2 rebel officers in yesterday to inspect. Generally they intend isuing [sic] clothing before they leave. Nothing more about the exchange yet

Feb 11. 1865

Fair and cold. Every thing remains the same, nothing more conserning [sic] the exchange. Beauregard had whiped [sic] Sherman, got him in full retreat. Lee whiped Grant. Spies in the mess room. Great deal of sickness

Feb 12. 1865

Received a letter from Pa today Dec 10. Not very cold but quite unpleasant. Catholic priest preached today. No prisons [sic] left yet.

Feb 13. 1865

Weather fair and pleasant. At noon 300 sick and 200 well men leaves. This evening in an hour or more are now calling the roll. Reported that they will continue to send fast as possible. Health pretty good.

Feb 14. 1865

Fair but very cold, coldest weather we have had this winter. No news today of any importance. The prisoners left the depot at 5 o'clock yesterday evening. Jim Thomas in today.

Feb 15. 1865

A.M. Fair, still very cold. Nothing new P.M. Cloudy and snowing not quick, so cold. Great deal of sickness. Health good, rations a little better.

Feb 16. 1865

Reports say there is 1000 to go next load, 600 sick and 400 well also V.A. and N.C. will be the last exchange. Am anxious for my time to come, am afraid they will only exchange thousand and stop and leave me here

Feb 17. 1865

Weather very moderate and fair. I have pretty reliable information that the comdy [sic] officer has red [sic] orders to clear the camp as quick as possible. Trust to God it is true. Great deal of sickness. Vulgar fractions

Feb 18. 1865

No more prisoners have left yet, expect some to start Monday. Health quite good. Sherman between Branchville and Columbia S.C. Fixed stove.

Feb 19. 1865

Cloudy and warm. S.S. very small, 4 of my class present, day school almost dwindled to nothing. I am sick today, headache and I think some fever. Next load signed parole today and leaves tomorrow, I understand. Still in good hopes.

Feb 20. 1865

Weather remains the same. Another load of 100 left today of sick. Still in good hopes of getting off. I am good deal better this evening, had my rings finished. Recd a letter from S. Sawyer.

Feb 21. 1865

Very fair and pleasant. No news of interest, all quiet in camp. Very wet and muddy. Health improving. Wrote to S. Sawyer. All in pretty good spirits.

Feb 22. 1865

Nothing new today, reports say another load leaves tomorrow. Inspected today by maj, Col, 2 citizens or some one else, and 2 ladies very homely and belgium bonnets. Quite warm and cloudy. Letter of Irwin, all well

Feb 23. 1865

Little cloudy but very pleasant, only it was very slopy [sic]. Same two ladies were in again today with tracts. The load that was to go today have not gone yet, will not, I guess, until Monday.

Feb 24. 1865

Fair and pleasant, thawing very fast. No more prisoners have left yet. Wrote to Irwin. Health pretty good, great deal sickness in camp.

Feb 25. 1865

Another load of 500 left today at 3 o'clock. I have sent up application to set off next load. Weather fair and pretty cold. Nothing more of interest has transpired

Feb 26. 1865

Cloudy and warm, very wet. Received a letter from Pa today of Jan 22nd, all well. Uncle James dead. Nothing new, everything quiet. Great deal of sickness, my health good.

Feb 27. 1865

Little cloudy but warm. Nothing new today, all very quiet. Moveing [sic] smallpox cases in the new hospital today.

Feb 28. 1865

Another load of 300 signed the paroles today, don't know when they will get off. Have a load of sick made up also hope I will get off soon, trust to providence, an unfair way of sending them off just whoever has money to buy his way out can, so some sent an application to the Col [sic] and got off in that way. Great deal of sickness in camp now and the smallpox is more fatal, great many deaths from 20 to 30 every day out of about 7000 men, more now than there was last summer and fall when there was some 10000 here.

Mar 1. 1865

All quiet. Exchange is stopped for a while frm [sic] want of transportation. Rumored that the next load gets off next Monday. My health remains pretty good.

Mar 2. 1865

Another load of sick (500) is about to get off, will go in the course of an hour. My bunkmate Cay with the rest. Weather cloudy and sleeting a little. Hope my turn will soon come to return to the land of cotton.

Mar 3. 1865

Weather remains the same, all quiet in camp, no rain today. Almost crazy I want to go to Dixie so bad, still live in hopes if I die in despair.

Mar 4. 1865

Made up another load today, missed me again. Looks like I am unfortunate in getting off to Dixie, guess my time will come sometime if I live long enough. Have not heard from my note to Matt yet.

Mar 5. 1865

Fair and very pleasant. Rev Mr. Becker preached for us today, liked his sermen [sic] tolerably well. Nothing new today, ever thing very quiet. Pretty mudy [sic], little cooler today

Mar 6. 1865

Weather remains the same. No more prisoners have been sent off yet. Every thing is very quiet, have not heard from my note to Capt Matt yet.

Mar 7. 1865

Weather same. The 5th load got ready to go today and the order was countermanded, caused a great many long faces, great disappointment. Say will go tomorrow now, something wrong in transportation.

Mar 8. 1865

Cloudy and a little snow, still wet and mudy [sic]. Great speculation in regard to when the next load leaves, I try to make myself contented my time will come some day I guess. Have drawn full Confed [sic] suits.

Mar 9. 1865

Cloudy and warm. Nothing new. Great deal of Dixie tobacco in here has fallen to nothing almost, 25 cents per plug.

Mar 10. 1865

Fair pretty cold. The unlucky load got of [sic] today. Are now makeing [sic] up a load of the sick. Nothing new today. Great excitement about the exchange. I think now there is a general exchange

Mar 11. 1865

Weather remains the same. No change in things generally. Have not got my name down for Dixie yet, hope and trust my time will come yet and very soon. Am getting almost disheartened and quite impatient.

Mar 12. 1865

Oh me! So lonesome. Hardy [sic] keep back the tears, so long since I have seen any of my old associates. Hope my imprisonment wont [sic] last always.

Mar 13. 1865

Weather quite moderate. Reported that 13,000 of Earley's men are captured also that 1,700 of Sherman's surprised old Jube. I don't believe either report, as the saying is those tales have not got any hair on them.

Mar 14. 1865

State of weather remains the same. Load of sick got of [sic] today. No news of interest. There is so much tobacco in camp (sent from Dixie), it is cheaper than I ever saw it at home before war.

Mar 15. 1865

Cloudy and warm. No news. Understand that there is another load making up, am in great hopes of getting off this time, I may be disappointed. Got my name down for Dixie.

Mar 16. 1865

Cloudy and very blustery. Pis-s creek has overflown, broke down the fence, washed away smallpox tents out in back. Generally very warm and mudy [sic]. Some signed parole today.

Mar 17. 1865

Weather remains the same. River is still rising is all allover camp 4 or 5 ft deep in cook house and some of the wards moved out all the sick and commissary stores to a higher place. Commence falling at 6 o'clock.

Mar 18. 1865

River has fallen nearly to its old watermark. Mess room and cookhouse 4 in deep in mud. Had a bad time cleaning them out. Some houses washed away and ½ of the paling.

Mar 19. 1865

Uncommon prettie [sic] day not a cloud to be seen and very pleasant. Busy repareing [sic] damage done by the freshet. My health is pretty good. Camp is quite mudy [sic]. No news today, all quiet.

Mar 20. 1865

Weather broken and quiet warm. No news stering [sic] of interest. Heard that Grant had whiped [sic] Lee. Tobacco remains very low. Health is prettie [sic] good but rations are quite small.

Mar 21. 1865

Very prettie [sic] day and pleasant. No news in circulation yesterday. Report is quite the reverse, I am told guard line is moved beyond the back pond.

Mar 22. 1865

Little sleet and rain today. Reported that the load on which my name was is broken up. I think it [sic] true. They have made up another load of the first on the rolls as we came here. I am knocked out.

Mar 23. 1865

Fair and quite pleasant, though little cooler. Nothing more about the exchange. Every thing very quiet. Snow has all disappeared, looks a little like spring once more. Have not repaired the fence yet.

Mar 24. 1865

Some snow last night and today. Not very cold. Commenced to repair the fence. Exchange question quiet today. Reports say that Sherman is at Goldsboro N.C.

Mar 25. 1865

Cloudy but quite pleasant. Nothing new. There is not a great deal of sickness in camp at present. Ground is drier than it has been this spring. White washing mess room today.

Mar 26. 1865

Fair and pleasant. An Episcopalian preached for us today. No news worth notice. Have a little headache this evening. No talk about any more prisoners leaving soon.

Mar 27. 1865

Very fair and pleasant. Boys are catching fish today out of the creek, catch some quite nice perch, tried my hand but met with no success. Nothing new all quiet.

Mar 28. 1865

Weather remains the same. Every thing quiet. Papers say Lee attacked Grant thinking his strength was weakened to reinforce Sherman and was repulsed with a loss of 5,000 or 6,000 men, while Grant only lost 500 or 600 men.

Mar 29. 1865

Very pleasant weather. Bob Lee whiped [sic]. Every thing quiet. Discharged from the mess room today, not because they were dissatisfied with me but simply to put in some good union men.

Mar 30. 1865

My birthday, 22 years old. Very wet morning. More of the waiters discharged. No news about when anymore men will leave for Dixie, I think not before next week. Have made one more effort to get off.

Mar 31. 1865

Still cool and raining. No news of importance. I hope the Yankees are satisfied now they have discharged the rebs who were waiters in the mess room and put in oath takers or good union men, as they call them. The winter is about over now and it has not been so very hard, I have tuffed [sic] it out very well, can't say that I suffered any either from cold or hunger for which I am very thankful, have been blessed so far. Tried to get off on the next load but I think my chances are very slim. Lieut Smith said the rolls were full. Wards are all consolidated into 30 mine is still

Apr 1. 1865

Weather broken, little snow and quite cold. No news of interest. There is some reports about peace but I have not been able to learn what. Health prettie [sic] good. Rearranged my bunk, have thrown two together.

Apr 2. 1865

Very pleasant and a beautiful day, reminds me of home a great deal. Reports say today that Johnson had defeated Sherman, driven him to his fortifications at Goldborough [sic]. My appetite is very good.

Apr 3. 1865

Weather same. Reports say that Richmond is evacuated and that it will be 1 month yet before the Baltimore road is repaired. Commenced work today.

Apr 4. 1865

A.M. Fair and pleasant. Richmond gone up, 12,000 prisoners, 50 pieces artillery. P.M. Cloudy and little rain. Nothing new.

Apr 5. 1865

Fair and very pleasant. Still rumored that Richmond has gone up but that Lee has captured 15,000 of Sherdin men. Nothing more about the exchange. Wrote to Irwin today.

Apr 6. 1865

Today completes my eleventh month in prison, think that I have been blest so far, have had enough to eat but now I am not quite so well off.

Apr 7. 1865

Weather fair and pleasant. Papers say Gen Lee and army had surrendered or will soon. Considerable excitement. They have what they call drill now every other day.

Apr 8. 1865

Fair and prettie [sic] cool. No news at all today, every thing very quiet. Reported that a load leaves here Tuesday, others that we are all to be sent to point L [Point Lookout] for exchange.

Apr 9. 1865

Quite cold but very prettie [sic] weather. Had preaching again today. No news whatever, all quiet. Health generally good.

Apr 10. 1865

Tolerably pleasant today. Reports say say it is published on bulletin board that Lee has surrendered his army also that we are to be paroled immediately.

Apr 11. 1865

No change in things generally. Still rumors and seems to be confirmation of the surrender of Lee and Army. Some seem to be glad some sorry

Apr 12. 1865

Cloudy and rainy. Papers give a list of officers captured. Gen Finegan one of the number. Great many are confident we will all soon be paroled.

Apr 13. 1865

Seems to be settled that Gen Lee and army has surrendered to Grant. Some seem to rejoice while others lament the capture of so noble an army.

Apr 14 1865

Great rejoicings throughout the U.S. great exultation and clawing in the papers. Fairly crowing picture Richmond as entirely destitute of provisions and rec'd federals with great joy.

Apr 15. 1865

Excitement has only begun. Abe and Seward was murdered last night. First rumor that a Virginian, lastly SS Clerk. Rumored that all rebel officers at Washington were killed.

Apr 16. 1865

Cloudy and quite cold. Lincoln's murderer is supposed to be one Booth Johnson to his seat yesterday at 12 o'clock. Seward considered diangerousous [sic] the assasins [sic] not apprehended yet.

Apr 17. 1865

Cloudy and unpleasant. Various rumors reported that Gen Grant was assassinated also but it is false, I believe. Had bad luck with my chains today, had two confiscated worth $1.50.

Apr 18. 1865

Gen Johnson has not surrendered his army, general opinion is that he will soon. Health of the camp is tolerably good at present.

Apr 19. 1865

Very pleasant day. Johnson has not surrendered his army yet. Gen order 66 read to us today, all military posts and stations to be draped in mourning 30 days, all colors 60 day. Abe's funeral preached today.

Apr 20. 1865

Cloudy and rainy. Nothing new today, every thing quiet. Some rumors that Johnson has isued [sic] a proclimation [sic] to hang all the rebel leaders and release the men.

Apr 21. 1865

No change in weather. No news, every thing quiet. Johnson not surrendered yet. Have a paper going the rouns [sic] in camp for good union men to sign.

Apr 22. 1865

Weather broken, no rain. Latest dispatch is that they commence paroling on Monday. Virginians go first, report not reliable. Health of the camp a great deal better. Smallpox departing

Apr 23. 1865

Cloudy, cold and little snow. No news of interest, all quiet. Read a letter from Irvin yesterday, all well at the fort. Wrote to him today. Have preaching nearly every Sunday.

Apr 24. 1865

Weather fair and cold. Great excitement. Took is names of all citizens, oath takers, all who wished to take the oath, and those who won't take the oath. I am still a REBEL.

Apr 25. 1865

Fair and very pleasant. Nothing new. Johnson has not surrendered yet, he and Sherman has been negociating [sic] terms of peace. Lines extend from the Potomac and the Rio Grand. Washing [sic] authorities dissatisfied. All armes to be turned over to State authorities jus [sic] as before the war.

Apr 26. 1865

Fair and pleasant. Still great excitement, most all have applied to take the oath and I was weak enough to do so also, sorry for it sence [sic] try and live in hopes that it will prove for the best.

Apr 27. 1865

Warm and broken, had a thunder shower today. Reminded me of old times very much am feeling troubled today afraid I have done wrong.

Apr 28. 1865

Weather broken no rain and tolerably cool. Latest dispatch is that they commence paroling Monday, Virginians first. Don't place any confidence in the rumor. Health good, smallpox departing.

Apr 29. 1865

Another thunder shower otherwise fair and pleasant. No news today, all very quiet. Bought some leaf tobacco. Thins [sic] are very dull smile have I on hand.

Apr 30. 1865

All quiet. Reported a load leaved tomorrow for Baltimore. There has been a great deal of excitement this month, the whole confederacy has gone, sad to think of but could be hope.

May 1. 1865

Cloudy and rainy and cold. Rumors that no prisoners will be released because I suppose from bushwhacking in Virginia and Maryland. Various report [sic] in camp, all false I guess

May 2. 1865

Fair and quite pleasant, some frost. Some 50 more prisoners came in today from Washing [sic]. No news of interest, everything remains quiet. Only 36 cases of smallpox now in camp.

May 3. 1865

Fair and pleasant. Out door is open today for all to appley [sic] for the oath who wish to. Nothing new. Wrote to Irvin.

May 4. 1865

Fair and pleasant. Making up a total 50 cents per day having [sic] an Etheopian [sic] saw every night. New U.S. [?] all mitance [?]. Think we well get out soon.

May 5. 1865

Fair and warm. No news of importance, every thing quiet. Wrote to Pa about great improvements going on in camp, ar [sic] fixing up quite a garden.

[Note: Because Gramling began his diary in the middle of the year (May 6, 1864), his narrative begins in the middle of the volume. At the start of 1865, Gramling began writing in the unused front portion of the diary, ending the narrative on May 5, 1865.]

May 6. 1864

Went into battle 2 o'clock, wounded in the right arm and taken prisoner. Sent to rear in bull pen had ball cut out and wound dressed. About 600 prisoners with me, Uncle Joel with the regt. wound in shoulder. Cay, Carter, Cluell, Aldridge, Barry, Felkel, Haines & Snipes are all prisoners.

May 7. 1864

Went to Hospital 1st Divs 9th Army Corps. Wound redressed and doing well. Started to rear but cut of [sic] by Mosby. Camped in Rappadan [Rapidan] River. Considerable uneasyness, fraid Mosby will make a dash on them.

May 8. 1864

Came back by Chancellorsville and camped near Fredericksburg. All fair weather and wound doing finely. Got on the road to Mosby again today and had to turn back. Have been wishing he would recapture me, did retake me from my regiment.

May 9. 1864

Arrived at Fredericksburg early this morning, established Hospital in a Presbiterian [sic] Church. Nothing to eat but hard bread. Coffee, beef tea and every two or three days ½ oz boiled beef.

May 10. 1864

Still at Fredericksburg. Wound in good condition. Various reports from the front, Gen Longstreet mortally wounded in shoulder, Ewell killed and Richmond taken by Butler. Weather good. Enemy driven at every point sot [sic] of runs Bull the possy [sic] of the yankee army.

May 11. 1864

The church is still my place of rendezvous. Diet remains the same. Citizen (Hashlong) brought me some rolls, ham, and preserves for my breakfast. Uncle's wound looks very badly. Weather moderate and wound a little better. Raining this evening.

May 12. 1864

Heavy cannonading all day in the direction of the Spotsylvania C.H. Cloudy and raining. Some meat for dinner. Yanks still hold Richmond, that is from their account. Lee is surrendered and entirely cut off from his base.

May 13. 1864

Nothing new today. Wounded are still coming in in considerable numbers. Still at Fredericksburg. Still cloudy. Lot of prisoners passed through this morning, some from my brigade and regiment.

May 14. 1864

Nothing new today. Cloudy and still at Fredericksburg. A little beef for supper. Uncle Joel had been moved to another hospital for better treatment he is a little better. My wound is doing well.

May 15. 1864

Shower rain early, nearly fair this evening. Nothing new, very long day, low spirited and headache and little fever. Thinking about home and home folks. Diet same. I am getting pour [sic] on hardtack.

May 16. 1864

Wrote a letter to send home. Fair weather. Diet same and am still at Fredericksburg. Wound in good condition. Reinforcements going to the front. Uncle about the same.

May 17. 1864

All quiet. Weather fair. Three butter crackers for supper. Wound still improving. A great many vague rumors among the Yankees in regard to their sucesses [sic], they have had it read to them on drass [sic] parade that Richmond was theirs too.

May 18. 1864

A great many wounded came in last night from the front. I asked Dr. to let me walk out for recreation but would not allow me even with a guard. Reports from the front say the forces [fixed?] bayonets, they repulsed or captured a force battery of artillery their report.

May 19. 1864

Nothing new transpired today. Weather fair. More wounded came in today. Diet same. Put on clean shirt. The yanks say they have taken 30,000 prisoners. Spirits low. Uncle is doing pretty well. Yanks are in high spirits.

May 20. 1864

Left Fredericksburg at noon for Belle Plain Landing, had quite a warm walk of 11 miles, made the trip through by 8 o'clock. Got some crackers, milk, punch and Lemonade on the road from the sanitary commission. By 8 ½ was on board the steamer for Washington.

May 21. 1864

Arrived at Washington this morning at day break, is now in Hospital on the north side of town, it is called Columbian Hospital. Saw Abe Lincoln's house very comfortably situated. Baked bread, coffee, meat, apple, some one meal and some another. Cot to lay on.

May 22. 1864

A beautiful morning. Shower rain at noon. Health good and wound doing well. I see negroes riding out in fine carriages with their driver, sometimes a negro man and a white woman riding together in a carriage with a negro driver. Frequently see them walking together.

May 23. 1864

Every thing the same. Saw president Lincoln and Lady pass yesterday, just saw them on their backs could not tell how he looks, he passes here nearly every day. Some die here nearly every day. Wrote a letter to Pa and Irvin today.

May 24. 1864

Weather very pleasant. I feel in better spirits. A battery of artillery has just passed, going towards the front. Lot of wounded came in this morning. Amused myself by looking at the pleasure riding folks pass.

May 25. 1864

Weather fair. Health good and wound in excellent condition. Every thing seems to very lively. Papers say Grant is pursuing Lee very closely the latter is south of the north Anna River. All confident of Grant success. Had fifty cent given me by a soldier. P.M. Cloudy.

May 26. 1864

Rainy all day. 200 more wounded came in. Papers are full of vain rumors. Lee is still retreating and nearly cut off from Richmond, Jeff Davis is captured by Grant and paroled. Don't know whether he will be summarily hanged or not. Some believe it, they are all very jubilant.

May 27. 1864

A.M. Fair and moved to Lincoln Hospital, met a very cold reception had to sit a long time before I got a bed. All very sullen nasty out of the way place. For dinner bread, soup, and water. Supper tea, syrup, and bread. Hardly ate it. Head aches now. 6 ½ P.M Threatens rain.

May 28. 1864

A.M. Weather fair. Wound doing quite well. Very much dissatisfied here, did bad for breakfast bread, mush, syrup, and coffee. Troubled with diarea [sic]. P.M. Cloudy and likely to rain. For dinner bread, meat, and bean soup. Ate pretty harty [sic]. Headaches this evening. For supper bread and tea. A good many confederates here wounded.

May 29. 1864

Everything goes on the same. Diet is a little better today than heretofore. Wheather [sic] fair. Wound still in good condition and I am feeling better today. It is quite cool today, enough to make a coat comfortable. We still get bad attention. I expect to leave here before many days for some prison.

May 30. 1864

Was visited by a lady from New Hampshire today, she brought us some strawberrys [sic] and other things. Was grosely [sic] insulted by ward master, he ordered her out of the house very apruptly [sic].

May 31. 1864

Every thing quiet today. The weather fair and pleasant, my health good and wound doing well. Some ladies in today to see Col Manning, brought him some grub. Still at Lincoln Hospital, now what composes it is 20 building 100 foot long and 25 wide forming a triangle and a large number of tents, in all I suppose there is over 3,000 wounded here and prehaps [sic] 200 rebs, I think. This is nearly the last place in creation it is right out in the open field and is so very hot. I understand that 18,000 men are to leave here tomorrow for the front, Yanks still in good spirits and are looking up to Grant expecting him to crush out the rebelion [sic] this summer. If he does it by the 5th June will be nominated candidate for the president. He won't do it.

June 1. 1864

All quiet today and going on as usual. Diet a little better than when I came here. Weather fair and quiet warm. A lot of our boys were sent off today some where else, don't know where to, another Hospital I think. Very tired of this place.

June 2. 1864

Cloudy and a little sprinkling of rain all day, considerable cooler. I am getting along very [well] with the exception of the diareah [sic]. Don't hear any news from the front. Every thing is very dull and low spirited, I am at least.

June 3. 1864

Warmer today and quite pleasant. I am getting along pretty well. 14 dead men were carried out from here yesterday and 10 today. Fair. Diet about same

June 4. 1864

Cloudy all day but no rain, very pleasant. Still doing well. There was about 40 more rebs transfered [sic] to this ward this evening. There is no yankee wounded in here now. Diet about same and wounds generally are doing well.

June 5. 1864

Thin clouds all day but no rain. Every thing seems to be going on the same. Was a man in today looking after his brother, belong to 2nd Fla Regt. Wrote a note to Columbia. Hospital minister had prayers for us this evening.

June 6. 1864

Every thing remains the same. Considerable wind and rain today. Wrote a letter to Ma and Irvin. One man in the ward crazy or out of his head had bin [sic] talking or singing one all the time, beginning to swear considerable.

June 7. 1864

Weather quit [sic] fair and cool for the season. Every thing else quiet so far as I know. I am getting along finely, the crazy man was sent off to a tent and I understand will be waited on by negros. Got bad treatment, I guess. Think a good deal about home but little as possible.

June 8. 1864

No change in things generally. Weather very pleasant, a little cloudy. My health remains good and wound doing very well. Mr. Abernathy of the 37th NC quite low with pheumonia [sic] not likely to live. I am his principal nurs [sic].

June 9. 1864

I still keep in pretty good spirits considering my circumstances. Cloudy today. The sick man died this morning about 9 o'clock. Looks now like we will have a shower pretty soon.

June 10. 1864

Every thing remains the same, no change whatever, only the weather is cold of morning but pleasant in the middle of the day. They are going to send a lot of out men to Ft. [Delaware] soon, maybe today, prehaps [sic] did yesterday.

June 11. 1864

Cloudy all day and quite cool. Every thing else remains about the same. Nine ladies came in to see us this evening, was very sympathetic said they would come again in a few days. They did not bring us any thing.

June 12. 1864

Weather fair and a little warmer. Every thing else about the same. My Sundays are very dull, no church to go nor no other place, have to keep pretty. Am getting used to it. Capt 1st Md died today, friends came too late to see him die.

June 13. 1864

Several ladies came through the ward today one of them dropped a letter, a letter which I picked up, and this letter was directed to the soldier that wears the brown dressing gown V.C. 1.64

June 14. 1864

Nothing new has transpired today. Weather still fair and quite cool. No news from the front. The letter yesterday I opened it and commenced to read it (as I thought it was for me from the coat I wore) when the ward master inquired if anyone had found one on the floor. I thought the ladies had come back looking for it and sent it to him. Confident they never came after it and have reason to.

June 15. 1864

Weather still fair and cold for the season. Our diet isn't very good but can make out with it tolerably well. There was 224 prisoners stent [sic] to fort Delaware today from the old capital prison of this place.

June 16. 1864

Wrote a letter to Matt today and sent it off. Weather still fair and considerable warmer, very pleasant. No news from the front. Only Grant movements crossing the James are reported successful. So far two ladies today. Wants to know what clothing is needed. Wound is still doing well.

June 17. 1864

Everything remains quiet and the same routine of things every [day]. Still fair but a little warmer. Every thing very dull as might be expected living a prisoner's life.

June 18. 1864

No change in the aspect of affairs. Two ladies came here with a lot of clothing 5 P.M. for the rebs hats, shirts, dress pants, coats, vests, shoes, and socks, but didn't get any went into the provision part of this ward today will get little better fair [sic] now I guess.

June 19. 1864

Weather quite pleasant but a little cloudy. Nothing of interest has transpired today, dull dull as usual of Sunday. No church to go to, I am almost lost when I can't enjoy that gracecious [sic] privilege. Have good deal of work to do in the mess room but live well and get plenty of conparitiry [?].

June 20. 1864

Same two ladies came back today brought us some ice cream and apple butter. Weather still moderate. Have to work pretty hard now.

June 21. 1864

Every thing is going on the as usual, nothing new has transpired. Plenty work for me now a little more than I want, still I can get along with it.

June 22. 1864

Today is very fair and pleasant. Had more work than usual. My partner went off and is gone now and I have been hard at work all the time every [sic] since 11 o'clock this morning and expect to work until after eight tonight.

June 23. 1864

Still fair and quite warm, spring had been fairly set in now. I have got all the work to do again this evening as Bob has gone off again. No news from the front, only that Grant has shot down all the clocks and steeples in Petersburg.

June 24. 1864

Very fair and warm this morng [sic]. Sold $10.00 in gold for $18.00 in greenbacks. Bought plug tob [tobacco], 2 boxes matches, 1 pr suspenders. P.M. Suffering good deal with backache again. The boys all keepin pretty good spirits so far.

June 25. 1864

Have been busy all day preparing for inspection tomorrow besides first one thing and another. The weather is very warm and sultry no air stirring, scarcely thermometer was about ninety. Still suffering a good deal with neuralgia or toothache one about know which to call it.

June 26. 1864

Hard work this morning to finish cleaning up the dishes before inspection but did do it. Another storm of dust this evening but had no rain. Today has been a very long and dull day to me. I think of old Pisgah every Sunday and wish I was there, hope to be there ere long.

June 27. 1864

Very warm and some rain in the evening and storm of dust. Otherwise every thing remains the same. Turned my wound loose yesterday, it is doing very well.

June 28. 1864

The weather has moderated a good deal and has been quite pleasant today. Miss Thomson and Miss L was in again yesterday afternoon brought some ice cream which was very nice. Recd box and bbl [barrel]of things today containing a little of every thing.

June 29. 1864

Weather considerable cooler and still fair. Ladies bring or sending something nearly every day Miss Chappelle brought me basket of cooked victuals today. I am getting along very well so far as I know with this sister. My wound is almost well.

June 30. 1864

Fair and cool this morning, bids fair for a pleasant day. P. M. Had quite a nice little rain this evening the first we have had in sometime. Lost out sister today, got another in her place but don't like her as much.

July 1. 1864

A.M. Every thing is about same, no material change whatever. Weather more moderate first thing in the morning. I scour the floor of sister's room then get bread and milk, then coffee and hash or whatever else is to get, this is ½ of the breakfast, Then carry it round, then wash dishes.

July 2. 1864

No perceptable [sic] change so far as I can. See some more of our boys were sent to the old hospital prision [sic] today. They are sent there as fast as they get able. The regular rotine [sic] for dinner and supper are about the same as it is for breakfast. I have considerable scouring in the mess room.

July 3. 1864

This is a beautiful fair and pleasant Sabbath morning and it really seems like Sundays at home to me, wish I was ther [sic] to go to old Pisgah. I spent today a little better than I did last Sunday because had more time to read my bible.

July 4. 1864

A few thin clouds about, other wise it is a very pretty and pleasant morning. This has proved to be a very pleasant day. A few salutes were fired about noon, other wise every thing pass very quiet. Had an extra dinner. Wrote a letter a.m. and frank and snipes. Every thing else remains the same as usual.

July 5. 1864

Every thing very quiet today. The weather fair and not very warm. Papers state that gen Early is at falling waters, have driven Federals across river and in fighting captured a good many stores at Martinsburg. The belief is that a raid to the [?] of W is intended. They say they are ready for them.

July 6. 1864

Weather fair and pleasant no change in things generally as I know. The wounded are most all doing very well. Some cases of gangrene [sic] which I think will be fatal.

July 7. 1864

Very fair and pretty day though quite warm. No change in things generally, good deal of excitement about Frederick and Hagerstown MD. Our forces making pretty good head way, last dispatch states that all the rebs have recrossed the Potomac.

July 8. 1864

The eighth day of July has passed and nothing has transpired worth note for to make the day memorable. It has been a tolerably fair day and quite warm and sultry. The yankees can't ascertain what force we have invading them with, nor their whereabouts.

July 9. 1864

A little cloudy all day and very warm, though it is very pleasant this evening. every thing remains quiet and about the same. I am getting very tired of this way living want to see Dixie.

July 10. 1864

The day has passed off very quiet, nothing of note accured [sic]. It is reported that our boys drove the yanks 4 miles, killed Gen Wallace, and captured another Gen forgot his name, and are now within nine miles of Baltimore. I think Washington is threatened pretty strongly this morning.

July 11. 1864

A.M. Great deal of excitement. Won't allow anyone to go out of the ward, ward master got his repeater on caused from the invaders say they have just about got Baltimore and are coming to take Washington. Failed in my plan to escape, sent part of my party off, wrote to Irwin. P.M. Things have got a little more quiet. Reports say that they are fighting within six miles of here at Fort Manassas.

July 12. 1864

Fair and pleasant this morning. Left for Ft today at noon and am now at old Capitol prison they are very strict here won't let you get close to the window. Eat twice a day. Quite a dirty place and just alive with chinches. One or two out at a time. Think I will get along.

July 13. 1864

Every thing had passed off pretty quiet today. Still fighting near the city. Reported by prisoners coming in, say they are within 3 ½ miles of this place, can see the flash of the cannon from up stairs, large black smoke in the direction of the fighting.

July 14. 1864

Reported that Early is falling back and if reports are true he made one of the greatest raids known if he get back across the river safe got a great deal many horses and cattle our fair is very bad eat twice a day only once yesterday.

July 15. 1864

Weather is quite pleasant and they keep bringing in a few rebs once in a while. Have about 400 in here now. Today's paper say Early has recrossed the Potomac safely with every thing.

July 16. 1864

Every thing quiet today, nothing occurred worth not [sic]. My principal amusement is looking at the women pass, some very pretty ones in the citty [sic] of Washington. Quite a lot of cavalry are passing just now. Weather moderate.

July 17. 1864

Today seems a great deal like Sunday and I can't help thinking of home and wishing I was at old Pisgah. Every thing remains about the same. A funeral procession passed, it was a member of the fire company. Two very pretty young ladies pass in a carriage and one of them waved to me, which is frequently the case. Good many sesesh here.

July 18. 1864

200 more prisoners were brought in last night, 23 are going to take the oath. Nothing new has transpired today. It rumered [sic] that some of us will be sent off tomorrow. Sesesh Ladies pass every day and wave at us, two very strong today.

July 19. 1864

Weather quite fair and not very warm out. Room is about 25 or 30 ft square and has 72 men in it pretty well crowded, about 600 or 700 prisoners here. Prospects are good to be sent away soon but can't guess to what place. Rations are very short, 2 meals per day and is rumered [sic] that we will only get one here after.

July 20. 1864

It is very hard to find any thing worth recording in prison. We are all hampered up here in a room and nothing transpired in side worth attention, and we can't see any thing out side but hacks and people passing. Very disagreeable life.

July 21. 1864

Nothing has occurred today worth relating. Weather warm and very smokey. It is also reported that Gen Early has had a fight at Winchester.

July 22. 1864

Weather considerable cooler and am getting along midlin [sic] well. Sent off all the officers from here today but I don't know to what point expect all of us will leave tomorrow.

July 23. 1864

Left Washington 1 o'clock for Almira [sic], arrived at Baltimore and a great many spectators on the street. Got off the cars at Mountain House Howard St and up it turned down Franklin (right) at Franklin house. Drew rations and left at 8 o'clock.

July 24. 1864

Traveled all night and find we 170 miles from Almira [sic]. Corn crops are very sorry, wheat is gathered, oats is pretty good, traveled through the catskill mountains up the Susquahannah [sic] River crossed it 20 times. Got here 6 o'clock.

July 25. 1864

Raining all day, very sloppy. Elmira is noted for pretty women and good many of them. The prison is about 10 acres square with barracks inside large enough to hold 112 men each. This is barrack No. 3 commanded by Maj Colt.

July 26. 1864

Weather fair and pleasant. I have got a position in the kitchen as waiter, don't have much work to do and get plenty to eat. There is 6 of my Regt here and 4 or 5 of the 2nd Regt. None of my company.

July 27. 1864

It is fair and quite [warm] today, though the nights are quite cool. We eat twice a day, morning at 7 o'clock and evening at 3 o'clock, our camp or barracks are surrounded by mountains, not very high ones though.

July 28. 1864

About 600 more prisoners came in this morning from Point Lookout. I guess they will all be brought up there, they are looking very bad, some so poor they look like it is hard work for them to navigate. 1/2 barefooted.

July 29. 1864

Perfectly fair this morning and pretty warm. Nothing has accured [sic] today worth noticeing [sic]. A great many of the boys are makeing [sic] fans, rungs, and various other little tricks. One man at point Lookout mad [sic] a stationary steam engine out of a camp kettle and a clock out of bone with a file and a pocket knif [sic].

July 30. 1864

Cay, Carter, Felkel, Berry, Snipes, and Wilford came here today from Pt. Lookout and several others of the Regt. They are well but look quite thin. Give point Lookout a very bad name.

July 31. 1864

This is the warmest day we have had this summer. They have made a change in the waiters again, I am retained for one but din't like it much, have to wait on three tables each, 135 men and din't get any more than they do after washing all the dishes every thing. I can't help thinking about home and old Pisgah Church every Sunday and whishing I was there to go meeting but it is my misfortune to be here in prison, consequently I try to be contented and make the best of it I can.

Aug 1. 1864

Fair and very warm this morning. One of the prisoners got shot last night a buckshot passed across his righ [sic] breast did not break any bones. P.M. Had quite a nice shower this evening likely to rain some more. Searching knives arms etc.

Aug 2. 1864

This has been a very wet and rainy day. Every thing is very dull we have heard no news. Today I am getting very tired of prison and am growing more so every day, the thoughts of staying here all the winter and prehaps [sic] till the war ends makes the time a great deal longer.

Aug 3. 1864

It is still raining this morning rained all night, it is the first we have had sence [sic] midle [sic] of May except a few little showers, makes me think about sending out potatoes vines. P.M. It continues to rain. Grant north of James R. Talk of army beat up badly.

Aug 4. 1864

Still cloudy but not raining this morning. P.M. No rain today nor no news only camp rumors about exchange and parole. Chambersburg has been burnt down by our forces, demanded $100,000 in gold for to save it but the authorities could not advance the money, therefore it was burnt.

Aug 5. 1864

No news today. every thing perfectly quiet and dull as is natural in prision [sic]. Weather remains fair and quite warm. Every thing seems to speak in favor of the south the prisoners are expecting an early exchange or parole.

Aug 6. 1864

Very bright clear and warm day. Every thing going just the same. 1,003 more men came in today from Pt. Lookout. No news from any of the armies. Yankees are quite despondent.

Aug 7. 1864

Papers of yesterday state that Lee whiped [sic] Grant again last Saturday also that Gen Hood is getting the best of Sherman and are more despondent than ever. Hill and Longstreet seem to be doing as they please in PA while Ewell is in the valley threshing wheat.

Aug 8. 1864

Nothing of interest has occurred in camp today. The day has passed of [sic] very silently. The paper of today states that the raiding party in PA intend to go to Cincinaty [sic] way of Pittsburg, PA and Wheeling, VA also Grant sustained a loss of 33,600.

Aug 9. 1864

Very warm day and no news stering [sic]. Had orders this evening at rollcall to be ready for inspection in the morning at 5 o'clock. Have had a little fever all day.

Aug 10. 1864

I have not had any fever today and am feeling tolerably well this evening. Camps are full of various rumors [sic] every day all in our favor, I can't think they are all reliable. I have not heard any news today.

Aug 11. 1864

Every thing very quiet. Have rumers [sic] of exchange pretty often but it don't amount to any thing ,only falsehood. My health is still improving am takeing [sic] salts in broken doses, my blood seems thin

Aug 12. 1864

This is a beautiful day, the sweet little birds are chirping from branch to branch. There are great many rumors but I don't pay any attention to those, dear friend, when this you do remember is the guns.

Aug 13. 1864

It has been very fair and warm today until just now at 6 P.M. There is considerable cloud and wind filling air full of dust. As usual looks very much like we will have a good shower, The rain is beginning to fall.

Aug 14. 1864

Quite fair and very pleasant today but Oh! I can't help thinking about home and wishing I was there to go to old Pisgah. I never will forget the dear old spot, every Sunday about 11 or 12 o'clock I say Pa is at church now. Rec a letter from Irvin today, all were well.

Aug 15. 1864

The day has passed off very dull and quiet though very pleasant. Prisoners generally enjoy pretty good health, my health is still improveing [sic]. Wrote a letter today to Wagermen.

Aug 16. 1864

Nothing has occurred today worth making mention of. There is but very little speculation going on in camp, what there is is on rings and fans principally. I learn today that Vance is elected Govoner [sic] of North Carolina. A little rain this morning.

Aug 17. 1864

A.M. Have had a very nice season. No news stering [sic] P.M. Fair and very pleasant. Rumer [sic] says that the Federal Government wants an armistice for 6 months in order to come to some terms of peace, which I think is hardly credible.

Aug 18. 1864

Early A.M. very foggy and cloudy has the appearance of rain. Cloudy all day but no rain. 1,000 more prisoners come in this afternoon from Pt. Lookout. News good, some hopes of exchange or parole soon.

Aug 19. 1864

Fair and pleasant today. Suffering very much with jawache, tried to have an old root extracted and instead of getting it, broke a good one off at the gumbs [sic]. Rec'd a letter from Irvin today he was well, also one from Washington, have some clothes on the road.

Aug 20. 1864

The exchange question is still agitated very much. Report says (said to be reliable) commence 10th Sept all over plus to be paroled and all to have 60 days furlough on our return. Still suffering good deal with neuralgia. Morgan of Co. D died today of chronic diareah [sic].

Aug 21. 1864

Cloudy but pleasant this morning and remains so all day. My jaw is considerable better. Berry and Wilford and Thomson are having light fever. Has not been so dull today. Grant whiped [sic] against Sherman

Aug 22. 1864

Nothing new or uncommon has transpired today. Wrote to Irvin. Still suffering a good deal with my jaw.

Aug 23. 1864

It has been fair and quite pleasant today. Jaw don't hurt so bad of mornings but is very painful of evenings. Wors [sic] this evening then ever, though it is easy at present.

Aug 24. 1864

Everything seems to be going smoothely [sic]. Weather good and prisoners in good spirits and expect a general exchange soon. My jaw don't get any better yet.

Aug 25.1864

My Neuralgia is considerably better today has not hurt so much. Every thing is very dull no news stirring. The exchange question is pretty well died out. Very pleasant and fair. Day rations remain the same, I get plenty.

Aug 26.1864

No change in things generally. It has been a very pleasant day, little rain this evening. Neuralgia is almost well. Received the clotheing [sic] today that I have been expecting from Washington, very well pleased, no fine clothing nor provisions are allowed to be brought in all that come are confiscated.

Aug 27. 1864

Wrote Miss Thompson. Report says that Lee made a flank movement on Grant and badly demoralized his army. The news generally are very cheering. More rain this evening. I am feeling very well now.

Aug 28. 1864

Another Sabath [sic] has past and I still find myself here in prison making five weeks in this place, which seems like 5 months. Time passes off very slow, not withstanding I am pretty comfortable. wished myself at Ma's cubbord [sic] today as I often do.

Aug 29. 1864

Have received my health again. Weather very pleasant. More prisoners arrived today. Have very flattering news in regard to an exchange. News generally very cheering, have a strong hope of returning to Dixie this fall.

Aug 30. 1864

Tuesday has been cloudy, no rain but cool and very pleasant. Have been issueing [sic] good deal of clotheing [sic] to the prisoners for several days but they are not near all supplied yet.

Aug 31. 1864

Last night and this morning was cold the coldest weather I ever experienced in August. It is quite pleasant this evening. August had been tolerably pleasant and pretty rainy and cloudy most all the time. The news generally has been quite cheering most all the prisoners are looking forward for an early exchange also are expecting peace soon. The last report (which are many) in regard to an exchange is that Jeff had agreed to exchange the negroes for the men that have enrolled their names to take the oath of allegiance to the U.S. Thomson is sick with Phneumonia [sic] also Wilford with fever both in the hospital. My health has been good except neuralgia. The rest of the company are well and doing as well as could be expected. So ends August.

Sept 1. 1864

Good deal of excitement in town last night caused by the nomination of McClellan for President, quite a number of guns were fired. Weather remains the same as every thing else does. No change in anything.

Sept 2. 1864

It has been a little cloudy all day but quite pleasant though very dull. Hear no news whatever, have not heard any thing more from the Democratic Convention. Prisoners are generally very healthy and in pretty good spirits.

Sept 3. 1864

Weather still remains cool and cloudy but no rain. Seems more like November than September. Rumer [sic] says Atlanta has fallen with 20,000 prisoners also that Lee has lost 15,000.

Sept 4. 1864

It is reported that Lee has whiped [sic] Grant again and driven him 6 miles. He calls for reinforcements, will have to retreat if not received. Papers advocate a retreat. I think more about home Sundays than any other day, not only home but old Pisgah, oh how I long to to see the dear spot again.

Sept 5. 1864

Has been raining all day very wet and sloppy and pretty cool. It is reported that Hood has given Sherman a bad thrashing driven him 9 miles and taken a good many prisoners. Received a letter from Irvin today all well.

Sept 6. 1864

Fair and pleasant today, sun shone out and the ground has dried off. The [leaves] are now looking red remains one of old times. Wrote to Irvin today no news of importance.

Sept 7. 1864

No news again today. Old camp rumors [sic] are still being agitated but I don't think they amount to much. I still entertain a strong hope of returning to Dixie this fall or winter. Has been fair and very pleasant today.

Sept 8. 1864

Nothing transpired today worth note. Exchange question is still being agitated. Everything bespeaks an early exchange and I think we will get away from here this fall. Wrote to Matt today also rec'd a letter from Irvin, all are well.

Sept 9. 1864

Reported that a cartel of exchange has been agreed upon and we will be exchanged soon. Cloudy today but very pleasant.

Sept 10. 1864

Rumor says that the exchange is to take place between the 15th and 25 of this month. I can't put much faith in it though. I hope it is true, still. Fair and very pleasant. We have pretty strict orders have to be very careful what we do or how we act.

Sept 11. 1864

A.M. Cloudy and a little rain and pretty cool. P.M. Fair and pleasant. I am home sick, got the blues or something else, this evening seems very much like Sabbath evenings at home in December, makes me want a stack of cane to chew and some potatoes. Oh! Me.

Sept 12. 1864

A.M. Cloud [sic] but no rain and pretty cool. P.M. Still cloudy and misting rain. No news today of any kind. Weather very disagreeable and only one blanket to cover with. Know I will sleep cold.

Sept 13. 1864

Still in good hopes of an exchange. Think the rest of us will get back by the first of Nov. Any way, weather is real cold and tolerably cloudy. Lay pretty cold of nights under one blanket. Had a ring made today.

Sept 14. 1864

Been raining a little all day. Ground is quite muddy. The exchange question has all died out on account of the negro. Ring all finished. Health is very good. Grant and staff all captured with one whole corps.

Sept 15. 1864

Tolerably fair and quite pleasant today. Rumor says that all the sick and wounded leaves tomorrow but I don't believe it. Haven't much hope of getting away from here this winter.

Sept 16. 1864

This has been the most pleasant day we have had in some time, fair and not cold. There is no news today. Wrote a letter to John T Desellum for blanket, draws, pants, and socks and money. Some rumors about the wounded and sick being sent off.

Sept 17. 1864

Every thing very dull today, no news stering [sic] of any kind. Has been the prettiest and most pleasant day we have had in a long time. Lost all hopes of getting back to Dixie still I hope to get there sometime if I live long enough.

Sept. 18. 1864

Still fair and very pleasant. Just as usual I am low spirited today. I never will forget my Sabbaths at home and old Pisgah, that is what makes me so low spirited of Sunday thinking of them.

Sept 19. 1864

No news today only the reports that John Morgan is killed which I hope is false. Am quite unwell today with cold and cough bordering Pleurisy, I think. Right breast is very soar [sic]. Had a little fever yesterday and today nothing serious yet I think.

Sept 20. 1864

I am feeling some better today though I am very nervous. No news stering [sic] every thing is very dull though it has been a very fair and pleasant day. Been takeing [sic] medicine today. Feel weak and faint this evening.

Sept 21. 1864

Reported that Gens Rhodes and Gordon are killed and 15,000 prisoners captured. Am little better today but feel quite bad yet. Men are dying up very fast average 16 or 18 per day.

Sept 22. 1864

Have got about well again though my breast is very sore yet. The exchange and parole question is being agitated again. Great many are takeing [sic] the oath. Weather same. Rec'd a letter from Irvin to dated 15th.

Sept 23. 1864

There is no news afloat today. Weather fair and pleasant. Am feeling some better. Wrote to Irvin today. Men are dying very fast from 15 to 25 per day.

Sept 24. 1864

Surgeons have been round today examining the sick and wounded, they say to parole them. Weather very pleasant though a little cooler this evening. Health improveing [sic]. I long to get back to Dixie.

Sept 25. 1864

There is no news today whatever and the day has passed off very dull and silently. Has been fair and cold as cold as can be without freezing, I think. Seems like December at home. I have got about well again except cold and cough. Exchange question is very much agitated.

Sept 26. 1864

Weather very fair and pleasant today. There seems to be some truth about the exchange or parole of the sick and wounded. Reported that Mobele [sic] and Petersburg has gone up also that Early is cleared out. None very reliable I think.

Sept 27. 1864

There is not a partical [sic] of news stering [sic] to. Weather remains fair and pleasant. I am in as good health as could be expected hauling in wood every day, I suppose for the winter.

Sept 28. 1864

Rain last night and cloudy all day but no rain though, quite pleasant except the mud which is pretty thick. The exchange question is stired [sic] again and there seems to be some hopes of getting away from here this winter.

Sept 29. 1864

News very good reported that Grant charged Lee 4 or 5 times, repulsed every charge. The last charge Lee charged Grant and taken 60 pieces artillery and 25,000 prisoners. The sick and wounded will be undoubtedly paroled shortly. Got letter from home. All well wet and rainy today.

Sept 30. 1864

Cloudy but no rain and very cold. The most unpleasant day we have had yet. Have been inspecting today the sick and wounded to find those they intend paroling. Wrote home today.

Oct 1. 1864

No news of interest stering [sic] today. Weather is cloudy and very cold and unpleasant. Don't expect to sleep much tonight as I only have one blanket to cover with and it is quite thin, don't see how I am to live without more cover.

Oct 2. 1864

Warmer today but wet and cloudy, no rain. Still examining sick to send off. Am in better hopes of being paroled or exchanged this fall. No news whatever today. Growing wors [sic] tired of this place every day.

Oct 3. 1864

The day had passed off very dull indeed, no news. Weather remains cloudy and wet but considerable warmer.

Oct 4. 1864

Weather still cloudy. No news. Isued [sic] blankets this evening but I never got one.

Oct 5. 1864

Weather remains the same. No news at all. Received a letter from and wrote to Mr. Desellum today. Takeing [sic] names for clothing this evening. Health remains very good.

Oct 6. 1864

N. Y. Herald of the 4th says Magruder attacked Grant flank, and Lee has whiped [sic] and badly crippled Grant's army. Grant is falling back to Culpepper C.H. Sherman in an unsafe condition. Weather same.

Oct 7. 1864

A.M. Fair and pleasant. 25 or more men made their escape last night by tunneling. They got 25 horses. Commenced 15th Aug, they dug 64 ft. No news today. Report says the sick leaves in the morning. P.M. Cloudy but no rain. Still hauling wood.

Oct 8. 1864

Weather remains cloudy and has turned very cold. Some 200 or 300 more prisoners came in today, were captured at Fort Morgan, Ala. Received a letter from Irvin yesterday, say they all are well and 2 boat loads have left for Dixie. J Austin has gone.

Oct 9. 1864

Had a light snow last night. Been cloudy and very cold today. I am quite unwell today have had a little fever all day. Wrote to Irvin today.

Oct 10. 1864

A.M. Fair and very cold still at work on the paroles. P.M. Cloudy, the weather has moderated a great deal. Rumored that the sick leaves tomorrow. Have been quite unwell yesterday and today, am feeling a little better this afternoon.

Oct 11. 1864

Elmira Gazett [sic] states that all prisoners captured up to June are to be exchanged except those captured by Butler in front of Petersburg. The sick and wounded have got off at least near 2,000 they seem to be very cheerful.

Oct 12. 1864

Cloudy to little rain today. No news whatever. Health very good this morning and yesterday. We had our first frost, not very cold today.

Oct 13. 1864

No news again today. Every thing very dull and cold. Cloudy most all day. Prospect for getting back to Dixie this winter are rather gloomy though I still live in hopes. Drew one stove to the ward today.

Oct 14. 1864

No news stering [sic] today. Fair and quite cold. Received a letter from Mattie today Sept 17th all well as usual. Have not caught any of the men yet that made their escape.

Oct 15. 1864

A.M. Fair and pleasant today though we had considerable ice this morning. Wrote to Matt and to the company today. Wrote for tobacco. Still in good health.

Oct 16. 1864

Has been fair and quite pleasant today. No news again today. Every thing very dull and quiet. Yanks raised an alarm last night what cause I know not. wrote to Mr. Clark and Mrs. Sawyer today.

Oct 17. 1864

Still fair and quite pleasant, little frost every morning. Prisoners are in better health than they were 3 weeks ago. No news stering [sic] whatever. Every thing very dull and time passes of [sic] very slow.

Oct 18. 1864

Still fair and very pleasant. Papers says that Sherman's army is completely annihilated Jeff Davis. Speaks very cheeringly to the soldiers. I had a mess of cabbage and Irish potatoes today.

Oct 19. 1864

No change in the weather and no news of any kind. The general health of the prisoners are a great deal better, instead of 15 to 20 it is only 5 to 10 per day and it seems to be the general impression that we will winter here.

Oct 20. 1864

Weather somewhat unsettled but no rain. Frost every morning though the weather remains quite moderate. Prisoners are generally pretty well supplied with clothing shoes especially.

Oct 21. 1864

Papers state that England and France have recognized the independence of the Confederacy. Nothing else new, weather remains the same. My health is still very good.

Oct 22. 1864

Quite a change in the weather, raining all day but warm. Papers say that Sherman is north of Dalton and Hood in his rear retreating toward Chattanooga. 8,000 prisoners captured 10,000 prisoners to be exchanged. I hope there is a better day not far ahead.

Oct 23. 1864

Cloudy but no rain today. My health has generally been good ever sense [sic] I have been captured. Read my Testament almost every day, they have a Library here now and I have a book reading the title is The Story of a Pocket Bible very good.

Oct 24. 1864

More tunneling been going on but were reported by some galvanized demons, would soon have been through. Weather cloudy but little rain. Wrote to Miss Ida Duncanson today.

Oct 25. 1864

Reported in camps that Grant has given up Petersburg and is falling back to Washington. My health remains very good. Weather very mild, fair and pleasant. The people of Elmira has kept the old cannon pretty busy today.

Oct 26. 1864

Nothing has transpired today worth notice, no news stering [sic]. There appears to be some general disturbance or contention in camp from what cause I know not. Health good. Weather same.

Oct 27. 1864

Cloudy all day but no rain though, quite pleasant. Uncle Joel arrived here today, is in very good health. He has been at Washington. No news of interest.

Oct 28. 1864

Quite a stormy day rain and wind. News generally cheering, if it be true. Along the whole line health very good and that of the camp generally.

Oct 29. 1864

Still cloudy but no rain. Every very quiet and remains the same. Received a letter from Irvin, all are well.

Oct 30. 1864

Rainy and very wet. No news of interest. Storming. Prisoners generally in very good health.

Oct 31. 1864

Weather warm and wet. We have a very good market here, the principal articles of trade is apples, cooked cabbage, tobacco, clothing, potatoes, knives, etc. Officers have tried several times to break it up but have not succeeded yet and are not likely to. Received a letter from Mrs. Sawyer yesterday. Boxes of clothing, etc, and money are being sent in daily to the men from their relatives and friends but I am somewhat among the unfortunate. The way I spend my time: 1st, Set the table and clean up afterwards then 2nd, read and knock about until 3 o'clock and 3rd, is dinner which I have to take an active part in in working. After that, rest.

Nov 1. 1864

Cold and cloudy but no rain. Report and indeed Baltimore papers say that a general exchange is agreed upon and is going into effect, also that 1,200 are ready at Pt. Lookout and have orders here to go get 1,800 ready for parole.

Nov 2. 1864

Latest report says that a general exchange has been agreed upon and that the fleet has already left for Charleston on that business. Weather very cold and cloudy, no rain for several days.

Nov 3. 1864

Lee has gained another victory. Grant loss 2,300 and gained no ground. Weather still cloudy and cold. Wrote to Matt and Mrs. Sawyer today.

Nov 4. 1864

Weather remains rainy and very muddy. I think there must be more wet weather here than in any other place in America. The news from every quarter of the most flattering terms but am afraid to believe it. All left Del for exchange.

Nov 5. 1864

Lee gaines [sic] another victory. Beauregard captured Atlanta with 10,000 prisoners. Weather broken and misting snow all day, very cold. Prisoners generally healthy and in pretty good spirits. Rations very short.

Nov 6. 1864

Fair and very cold though my thoughts are very cloudy notwithstanding the flattering and flying reports that are in circulation. I cannot believe them as I have heard some say.

Nov 7. 1864

Weather fair and very pleasant. It is very changeable, one day freezing, the next almost boiling comparatively. No new dispatches today. Tomorrow is looked upon as the great day. General impression is that it will be a close run between Abe and MC.

Nov 8. 1864

Nothing has occurred today more than usual, far as I know. It is quite still for election day. Generally thought that it will be a close run between Abe and MC, rather in the latter's favor.

Nov 9. 1864

It is reported that Lincoln is a head as far as known. Little hopes of an exchange. Health good. Weather fair and quite pleasant.

Nov 10. 1864

Weather remains the same. Some of the boys have been flanking potatoes and the yanks stoped [sic] the rations of all until the interested parties were found out. They soon came to light.

Nov 11. 1864

Great speculation about the election, some say that Lincoln is elected and some Mac. Very fair but some colder though pleasant. Great many boxes and packages of clothing come in daily for the rebs.

Nov 12. 1864

Very much surprised this morning to find it snowing. Has been drifting a little all day and has grown much colder, melts nearly as fast as it falls. Irvin is well and all the boys of the fort.

Nov 13. 1864

Has been quite a dull day though not uncommonly so, I get along pretty well, have a stove and plenty wood to sit by every day and all day except late in the evening. Papers state Col Mulford has sailed with a twice fleet for Port Royal for union prisoners about to be exchanged.

Nov 14. 1864

Have not heard who is elected yet for president, it is a very close run. I believe it inclines to be in Lincoln's favor. Weather unsettled little snow and very cold. Health is generally very good.

Nov 15. 1864

No news today neither from the election nor any where else only it is reported that 1,500 are to be exchanged from this place, well men. Very cold and snowing all day a little.

Nov 16. 1864

Fair and very cold today. Nothing definite from the election yet. Some what sick (feverish) today from keeping fast day which I heard had been proclaimed by Jeff Davis. Report says we are let be better cared for. Drawing clothing today.

Nov 17. 1864

Very cold, cloudy and raining. No news today. Nothing deffinate [sic] from the election yet. I have been a little puny yesterday and today. A letter from Mrs. Sawyer yesterday. Dixie mail in today but nothing for me.

Nov 18. 1864

Weather cloudy and warm. Fresh report about exchange. Officers are getting tighter on us every day, keep trying to break up our market but can't quite outwit, rebels are too smart at every point.

Nov 19. 1864

Unusually pleasant today and fair, seems to be moderate but Abe is reelected. No news of interest. Health improving. Every thing very quiet in camp. Bought a blanket today for 75 cents.

Nov 20. 1864

More prisoners came in last night and today, about 400 or 500, some militia from Fla, looking very badly. La and Miss. No news yet as I can hear, day passed very dull.

Nov 21. 1864

Cloudy and warm. No news. Am quite well. Have been repairing my bunk all day, whittling up plank to lay on nearly finished.

Nov 22. 1864

Cloudy and very cold. Had a pretty good snow last night, none today. It is reported that Gen Lee was killed but I don't believe it to be true. Have new coal stoves in the mess room now. Have finished fixing my bunk.

Nov 23. 1864

Weather broken and a little snow, very cold. I am well except severe cold. NY papers say Gen Lee is kill. Beauregard has taken the oath and Jeff is not to be found. Wrote to Mrs. Sawyer and Mr. Wagener.

Nov 24. 1864

No news stering [sic] today. Very strict with the men now, don't allow them to bring their rations out of the mess room. Two men were caught tunneling last night.

Nov 25. 1864

All quiet along the line. Today fair and pretty warm, good deal of snow on the ground. Wrote to Pa today. There is between 7,000 and 8,000 men in here and about 4,000 have applied to take the oath. I am some better this evening.

Nov 26. 1864

Cloudy and a little snow. N.Y. Herald say that [Mulford] has gone to prepare terms of exchange to Jeff which no doubt he will accept also that Lee has whiped [sic] Grant again and captured 30,000 prisoners. It predicts that all of us will doubtless eat our Christmas dinners at home.

Nov 27. 1864

No change in affairs today. Every thing remains quiet as ever. Still cloudy and warm, no rain. Suffering with a violent cold and cough. Recovering barracks.

Nov 28. 1864

It reported that Beauregard has thrashed out Sherman again, completely annihilated his army, also that all the oath takers are to be released soon. My health is improving.

Nov 29. 1864

All prisoners who refused a parole at Vicksburg and all other oath takers are to be released when the rolls are made out and approved by the Sety War. Warm and pleasant, weather broken. Health improveing [sic].

Nov 30. 1864

Weather broken very pleasant. No news stering [sic] as I can learn. Have got larger plates now for soup, hold nearly 1 quart.

Dec 1. 1864

No news again today. Weather fair and pleasant. Health very good. up roar in cookhouse. I will try and give a minute description of our camp quarters and surrounding vicinity as well as possible.

Dec 2. 1864

Cloudy and quite damp, not much rain general muster today. Maj Colt's time being is succeeded by another Maj name unknown. He is our old regular said to be very cross, has that appearance.

Dec 3. 1864

Weather remains the same. No news. On the South Side is the old riverbed holding water, along on the north bank is the Cookhouse and mess room and apothacarie [sic] and etc then a street 30 ft wide, then a row of barracks 30 in number, another street same width.

Dec 4. 1864

Every thing remains the same. Next is two more rows of barracks along the north side in the west, half is the officers' quarters gate in the centre, along the west side are the Hospitle [sic] Barracks and the kitchen seven in number.

Dec 5. 1864

Everything the same. Maj very strict. On the hearthside of the camp is part of the city. Two obstervatories, 1 regt in camp, and mountains dotted with country farms. On the east side is the principal part of town; depot, etc, another regt. In camp and one 4 gun battery.

Dec 6. 1864

Our new Maj is very tiranical [sic] had a fight in the ward. Mountains also in the east. On the south side is Susquehanna River, broad plain and mountains slaughter house, and farm house, etc.

Dec 7. 1864

All quiet today and very pleasant. On the west is another Regt of troops and I think one 4-gun battery and mountains still as far as I can see all around, nearly all the land is cleared a few patches of woods about.

Dec 8. 1864

Weather fair and extremely cold. No coal and therefore no fire in the dining room today. It is reported that Sherman's advance is within 6 miles of Savannah, some say 40. Not much talk of an exchange. Think we will stay here all the winter, prehaps [sic] during war.

Dec 9. 1864

A.M. Fair and very cold. Also reported that Forrest has captured Nashville and 7,000 prisoners. P.M. Cloudy. Rumors of an exchange afloat again, hardly credible.

Dec 10. 1864

Considerable snow last night and very cold today and still cloudy. Issueing [sic] blankets and clothing today. My health is very good also appetite. No news from the front, all seems to be very quiet.

Dec 11. 1864

All quiet today so far as I can learn. Still cloudy but no snow nor rain. We are furnished with lights now until 8 o'clock, two large lamps to the ward. We never have divine services any more.

Dec 12. 1864

Weather unsettled and extremely cold, the coldest we have had this winter. Reported that there is a lot of clothing in from Dixie.

Dec 13. 1864

Cloudy and very cold little snow. Had my first trial in the guardhouse, was put in last night give nothing but bread and water. Two pieces bread today. Pretty lousy hole.

Dec 14. 1864

Weather has moderated a great deal. Released for the guardhouse this evening. Report says that our regiment is going to [be] fed and clothed which I think is true though it is a sign of no exchange.

Dec 15. 1864

Considerable colder again today, blowing and snowing this evening. Made out a list of clotheing [sic]. Today reports are very conflicting about Sherman.

Dec 16. 1864

Sentinel informed me this morning that Sherman was fighting within 20 miles of Savannah and has captured 25,000 prisoners, but I don't believe a word of it. Weather still cloudy and very cold sleeting this evening.

Dec 17. 1864

Rained last night and frozed [sic] which made it difficult to walk this morning. Some warmer today, very wet out doors. Reported that Sherman is pretty well hemed [sic] and din't know how to proceed. We have a primer school here now, opened Wednesday 14th.

Dec 18. 1864

Fair and very pleasant. Snow melting very fast. Reports say Sherman is whiped [sic] 2,500 killed on the field also he and 15,000 of his men had surrendered, balance scattered. Wrote to Pa and Irvin.

Dec 19. 1864

Cloudy but quite pleasant. More prisoners came in today from Washington. Good many cases small pox here, three have died. Prisoners are very sickly as a general thing. My bedfellow Cay is sick with Phneumonia [sic].

Dec 20. 1864

Fair and very cold. Every thing is frozen hard. No news again today. I am in very good health. Cay is not any better. The rebs are enjoying themselves, daily scating [sic] on the pond in the south side of the camp.

Dec 21. 1864

Cloudy and snowing, very cold. Sherman still around Savannah has possestion [sic] some of the work. Hood defeated in Tenisee [sic]. Cay is not any better yet, has tiaphoid [sic] Phneumonia [sic].

Dec 22. 1864

Cloudy little snow and extremely cold, coldest weather we have had this winter. Had news from all the armies, Hood defeated heavy loss, Hardee and Beauregard hemed [sic] in Sav and entirely cut off Sav. Closely invested rumers [sic] of parole. Cay better.

Dec 23. 1864

Fair and still very cold. Uncle and myself are well. Smallpox still rageing [sic], some 30 cases and almost 2 have died. Rules are very strict in camp not allowed to go out much at night. Cay is worse today, took fresh cold last night.

Dec 24. 1864

Weather fair and has moderated a great deal. Jeff Davis his poisoned himself. Bob has whiped [sic] Grant. There is 40 cases of smallpox, 4 have died. Prospects are bad for Chistmas [sic].

Dec 25. 1864

Fair and very pleasant. Today is Christmas but it seems no more than any other day. The snow and ground is melting which makes it very slippy. Great many hollow Christmas gift but very few presents are rec'd.

Dec 26. 1864

Cloudy, warm, but no rain. It is reported that Savannah has fallen with 20,000 prisoners. Quite sickly in camp again from 15 to 25 die a day. Small pox growing worse every day. My vaxination [sic] is takeing [sic] finely. Wrote to Sawyer.

Dec 27. 1864

Weather remains warm and cloudy. Sherman has captured Savannah with considerable booty. Small pox is raging some 80 or 90 cases, several have died. uncle and myself are well.

Dec 28. 1864

Cloudy, rained last night, none today though extremely muddy. No news today, every thing remains very quiet sense [sic] the fall of Sav. Camp rules are very strict and are growing worse. Vaxination [sic] is taking finely. Very sickly in camp now.

Dec 29. 1864

Heavy snow last night, colder today and a little snow. Started to school today am takeing [sic] French lessons. No news. My health remains good. Getting Sunday school lesson, 1st chapter Acts of the Apostles to 16th verse, nearly know it.

Dec 30. 1864

Fair and very cold. No change in things generally. Getting homesick but I can not hear from home much more, get makes me feel sad when I think of the probability of never getting there.

Dec 31. 1864

Tolerably fair and cold. Reports say that Col Mulford has gone to Richmond with proposals of exchange so lenient that there is no doubt but what it will be excepted [sic]. Considerable snow again last night. Advancing pretty well in French. I feel thankful to the disperser of all things for favored as I have sence [sic] have been a prisoner, for I have got enough to eat ever sense [sic] I was captured only while I was at Fredricksburg [sic] VA and the old Capital Washington city about ten days each. I have had enough clothes also all the while, upon the whole I have not faird [sic] much wore [sic] than [in Dixie.]

[continued from previous page] in Dixie.

CASH ACCOUNT. JANUARY

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CASH ACCOUNT. FEBRUARY

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CASH ACCOUNT. MARCH

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CASH ACCOUNT. APRIL

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1864 CASH ACCOUNT. MAY

CASH ACCOUNT. JUNE

CASH ACCOUNT. JULY

CASH ACCOUNT. AUGUST

CASH ACCOUNT. SEPTEMBER

CASH ACCOUNT. SUMMARY

[Calculations]

Lincoln Gen. Hospital

June 9th 1864 Washington City

Mr. Marion C. Abernathy, 37th N.C. Regt of Charlotte died this morning left 1 pocket knife, pocket book, $10.00 in gold, 35 silver, $10.00 NC money, 1 of Confederate, $1.05 Yankee.

L.H. Gunn

Yanceyville, Caswell Co., N.C.
Forget me not

Miss Maria L. Thomson
400 H Street Washington City

M. Dan Wagener, 60 West 37th St. NY City

Miss Ida Duncanson 418 H St. Washington city

John T. Desellum Forrest Oak post office Montgomery Co. Md.

Mrs. Sophronia Sawyer
Lowell Mass.

Sinnet J. Cutlip Holly River Webster Co., Va.

[Calculations]

[Calculations]

[cover]

• Front matter
• January 1865
• February 1865
• March 1865
• April 1865
• May 1865
• May 1864
• June 1864
• July 1864
• August 1864
• September 1864
• October 1864
• November 1864
• December 1864
• Cash accounts
• Backmatter