The Osborne Diary: A Soldier’s Life
All Contents Copyright Bringe and Osborne O’Hagan 2007
Not for Commercial Reproduction or Sale
All Rights Reserved - Redaction Copyright Keith Bringe 2007
PREFACE
It’s been over a decade since I first discovered the Osborne Diary. I was house-sitting for friends traveling on an extended tour of Asia. I set up my bedroom in a unfinished attic in their house on the North side of Chicago. My friend’s beloved grandmother had recently passed away and there were bags of clothing destined for a charity resale shop. It happened that one of the bags had broken open and I was re-packing it when I felt something hard, small and rectangular in one of the pockets of a bathrobe.
The diary’s discovery was lucky and as soon as I started to turn the pages, I was hooked. My friend’s great, great grandfather’s voice came alive. His name was Elysha Augustus Osborne of Bedford Ohio.
One should keep in mind that the actual dimension of each page of this document is 3" x 4.75" with 10 lines for each daily entry and yet, in such a small space we get a vivid picture of the daily life of a civil war soldier. Through the repetitive and mundane acts of foraging, cooking and work there is a touching rhythm that developes. And, amazingly, the narrative creates four acts - so if things get boring for Elysha and his friend Ben, just wait and something will come along to spark your interest. I encourage you to read the whole thing which runs to approximately 10,000 words. The remaining redaction will be added as time goes by.
The history of the war between the states never captured my imagination, up to this point. I should say I’m not much of a war buff in general. But as soon as I delved into the lightly penciled manuscript I was captured. Elisha was an extraordinary and simply eloquent guy. Despite a terrible, disfiguring battle injury to his face (Saturday, May 14) which became infected and a lengthy recovery which included a trip home, he returned to the war.
Of special note was Osborne's deep friendship with another soldier named Ben Brinkerhoff. War forges bonds that are not easily undone and there is almost a spousal character to their relationship. Their reliance on each other is heartwarming. I found the entry for Sunday, February 7th especially poignant.
Elysha was an entrepreneur and his dealings extended to jewelry making - converting silver coins to rings - and repairing equipment and shoes. He also became a source of loans for other soldiers and would purchase goods like molasses, shoes or guns and resell them. Throughout the diary, these accounts are seen as lists with numbers next to them. Through this enterprise he was able to supplement his soldier’s pay and send money regularly to his wife. April 5th is a great example of his facility in making money into more money.
If I could not decipher certain text because of fading or graphite loss - or I made any spelling assumptions - you will see parenths like this {}. As time goes on, Elysha used empty space for accounts. At the end of these entries you will see this account material. My hope is that this information may provide scholars with additional information or confirmation of these soldier's locations on particular days.
Finally, I want to express my gratitude and love for the O’Hagan Osbornes. They continue a tradition of public service and honest hard work that is represented by this document.
Dedicated to the Memory of Dorothy Osborne.
Photograph inscribed in verso;
Taken Mar 8th 1907 At Orrville Ohio
Representing three generations
Elisha Augustus Osborne -
Yrs 74 Of Co. B. 103rd O. U. A - 62 to 65
Sheldon Culbertson Osborne - 46
Elisha Lynn Osborne - 10 yrs.
Hudson Ohio
Mar 6, 1910
E..A.O. 77
Friday, January 1, 1864.STRAWBERRY PLAINS
The weather is undergoing a sudden change, growing cold & freezing.Company B are on Provo guard at Major General Parks headquarters. I built a fireplace in front of our tent. The mortar froze as I put iton. Ben and I live alone now. No snow yet. Health good.
Saturday 2
Very windy and cold. Hard on soldiers. Ben Brinkerhoff went to see(Major, Mr?) Flockton of the 9th A. (G). leader of the band, 8 milesfrom here. Beck and Barnum stayed and slept in my tent for they had no fireplace.
Sunday, January 3, 1864.
On duty at 9 o'clock - Corporal of the Guard. Major General Grant came here by special train at 12 o'clock noon. I sold Beck a gold pen for three dollars. One large tent came.
Monday 4
At five o'clock this morning the ferry boat sank in the middle of the stream and drowned five men and five mules. Five men got out. I washed today. The 103rd Regiment (C.J.V.) crossed the river and encamped half a mile from us.
Tuesday, January 5, 1864.
Major Generals Grant and Foster were here today.
Wednesday 6
Snowed a little and only a little. We fixed our bed - put cedar boughs in and straw on top and made a good warm bed. I made soap - good soft soap.
Thursday, January 7, 1864.
I am on duty this day and night. The weather is cold and unpleasant.
Friday 8
My health is good. No news worthy of note, only the usual duties of a soldier - a little of this and a little of that. Cook and eat - when you have anything to cook and when you haven't look about and find something or go hungry.
Saturday, January 9, 1864.
I read a letter from Margaret (my wife). She's had a bad cold. The children were well.
Sunday 10
This is a holy day [Sunday] but how few realize it. We have the same duties to perform as any other day. Card playing and { ----jeof} are swearing goes on like any other day.
Monday, January 11, 1864.
I am on the 2 [to] 4 - Ben on the 3' - relief guards today. We did our washing also today.
Tuesday 12
The cars run across the new bridge this evening for the first time. The second Ohio cavalry started for Ohio today to join the veterans. I traded revolvers with Geo. {Leon} of the 2nd AVG and got five dollars to boot and a good navy.
Wednesday, January 13, 1864.
Ben went into the country and I put a new spring into Dyers revolver and some rivets for which he gave me a pair of moulds to fit my revolver and five rounds of cartridges.
Thursday 14
I drew a new blouse today. The 9th A.G. crossed the new bridge and encamped on the other side. The 4th A.G. is here also.
Friday, January 15, 1864.
Twelve rebel prisoners came in today. Some of them had nothing at all on their feet. Shoes must be scarce in the confederacy.
Saturday 16
The rebel General Vance of North Carolina and two of his staff and a lot of reb's brought in today - 40 in all.
Sunday, January 17, 1864.
I went to Knoxville with 40 reb's, six guards and Orderly Sheldon. The reb's were put into the jail yard. We quartered with the provo guards in a house upstairs.
Monday 18
Got up early and went out and bought eight sheets of ginger bread for 1.40 each - total 11.20. Missed the train and had to stay another night. Wrote a letter to my wife and one to Mary {Larelle}.
Tuesday, January 19, 1864.
KNOXVILLE
I went to the depo [sic] and had to wait til 2'o'clock for the cars.I sold my bread and went up town for more but could get none, so I bought 6.80 worth of tobacco. The cars stopped five miles from the plains and I sold my tobacco to the corpse [sic] and got home at dark or at the plains.
Wednesday 20
I got ready to go to Knoxville with prisoners but before we could get ready the cars left us. The reb's are not far off and threaten to attack us. Rails are piled under the bridge ready to burn when the reb's come.
Thursday, January 21, 1864.
BATTLE
Ordered to move. The reb's are coming so we pulled down our tents and moved over the hill and went back to get more things. I went on duty at 11 o'clock and the rebel began to fire on us from the other side of the river. I went to the guard house and took out 17 prisoners amid a shower of bullets. To [sic] of the prisoners and one of our boys {HBN}.
Friday 22
We encamped 8 miles from the plains last night. Beck and I went back on our Cap's [Captain's] horse and Beck on a mule to the plains to find the Co. [Company] Books which were left behind. Did not find them, but they were saved by the battery and returned to us afterwards.Marched to Knoxville and encamped on this side (of) the river near the city. Read a letter from {H. A. Laselle}.
Saturday, January 23, 1864.
KNOXVILLE
I bought ten plugs of tobacco for 1.25 and sold them to L. B. Page for 2.50. Pay day. Bought my canteen full of molasses for .75 (cents). Ben went to the city mill and Gillert gave him a little flour.
Sunday 24
Our brigade moved across the river and the 103 encamped on the highest hill in the vicinity. We have a fair view of the city and the river. Ben and I went to work and built a house and covered it with our tents. I drew a pr. [pair] of shoes - No. 9's and changed with co. J.[Company] and got a pr. [pair] of 7's.
Monday January 25, 1864.
We are far from water and down a steep hill. All are busy building. The weather is fine.
Tuesday 26
All quiet and at work. Some at one thing and some at another. My health is good which is a great blessing.
Wednesday, January 27, 1864.
A fight at {Severeville}. Two guns and two prisoners taken by our cavalry.
Thursday 28
Ben and I went to the city on a pass and got an iron to bake on and two plates and a keg to make a pail of.\
Friday, January 29, 1864.
We cleaned out our tent and repaired it. Health is good and I rejoice and feel thankful. Addendum in pencil; Cyrus Frederick 1-3 Wm. Beal 3-3 John Stoll 5-1-2
Saturday 30
I mended a pair of shoes and c.
Baker 8-1 Richards 9-1 12 10-2 11-1 Spicer 13-1-3
Sunday, January 31, 1864.
I wrote a letter to my wife and sent it by Chaplain Hubbard. He delivered his farewell address today. It was good. He is well posted. The weather is fine.
Monday, February 1
I carried some corn over to the mill and got it ground. Got 23 lbs. of meal to lengthen out our short rations.
Tuesday, February 2, 1864.
I {tapped} a pair of shoes for Tom Poole for 25 cts. [cents]. He found the leather. {W.} Green Co. K 149 1 Jacob Collins 2 Benhard Kuhau 3 Daniel McGloughin 4 Erastus Davis 5 David Asha 6
Wednesday 3
Got up early and had roll call - the first one for a long time. I did not get out in time. I went down to the bridge and made a shoe hammer and knife.
{J.} A. Goodrich 7 Thomas Haslett 8 Robert Johnson 9 John A. Fox 10
Thursday, February 4, 1864.
I read a letter from my wife mailed January 7th. All well at home.
Friday 5
Ben and I commenced to build a fireplace and dug out our house.
Saturday, February 6, 1864.
Finished our fireplace. Ben went downtown to get some nails and tins to line the chimney. Ben went on pickit in the evening. I read a letter from my wife containing her photograph - also a package of envelopes.
Sunday 7
I slept alone and rather cold. Ben came up and got his breakfast which I kept warm for him - corn bread and pork - very good for soldiers. Half rations of sugar and coffee. I went on pickit at 4 o'clock and relieved Ben at the Widow Bakers. We slept on her floor. The boys stole a keg of vinegar.
Monday, February 8, 1864.
Were relieved at 5 o'clock and returned to camp. All of Widow Baker's negroes or slave men has [sic] left her and gone into a battery. Nobody left to work the farm - only her little boy.
Tuesday 9
Ben and I dug out our house and made it much more convenient. I am well and hearty. Would like to go and see my family.
Wednesday, February 10, 1864.
Details are made every day to chop, and the woods are all being cut down around us. I read a memorandum from my wife. The weather is warm. We may have a long siege yet. Rebel signal lights were seen.
Thursday 11
I wrote a letter to [Reverand William] Campbell and one to Father Culbertson and two papers. Weather warm and pleasant.
Friday, February 12, 1864.
Cool and windy this morning. No rebels here yet to disturb our quiet. A flag of truce came in today to exchange prisoners. The 1st Brigade came over the river today. I read a letter from my wife of the 3rd. Ben went on pickit and I slept alone.
Saturday 13
I got up early and went to work to straighten up things in the tent. I saw the signal flags at work today. The regiment went out and had a general inspection, Colonel Casement said my brass looked [right]. I am well and on short rations. On guard.
Sunday, February 14, 1864.
No meeting to go to. No public worship. Shut out from all the comforts of home and civilization. Tis an awful life to live. I wrote a letter to Mary Dunham. Charles Brown and Henry Northrup are going home on a furlough from the hospital.
Monday 15
We had some hulled corn and pork for supper - no bread nor anything to make anything of. Rained all day.
Tuesday February 16, 1864.
KNOXVILLE
I got an order of {leapWitch, Hutch/nison} and went to the commissary and bought 16 lbs. of corn meal for 2 cents per lb. - meat at 14[cents]. Then I went over to the city and went to mill - found more guards there from the 104th trying to grind. I saw how it went and showed them how to manage and they gave me 7 lbs. of meal. Bought $13.00 worth of tobacco. Read a letter from my wife. Had read one of a later date.
Wednesday 17
Read a letter from my mother and spent the day in writing to my wife and Lester. I feel well for I can get out of debt.
Thursday, February 18, 1864.
KNOXVILLE
I {tapped} a pair of boots - one for Wm. [William] Dixon and one for Borman. Sold 1.00 worth of tobacco to one of Co. [Company] K. Have a bad headache. The prospect is good for a siege.
Friday 19
I mailed a letter to my wife and one to my (parents) then went out to sell my tobacco. Sold some to the 103rd and some to the 100th Ohio and the 4th {Tenn.} then I sold my revolver to Mr. Mercer of Co. {A.} 4th Tenn. for 16 dollars.
Sunday, February 20th, 1864.
I washed Ben's and my clothes. Heard some firing by the pickits. Our cavalry are after the reb's.
Sunday 21
Ben and I went over to Fort Sa[u]nders then down to the depo [sic] after dark. Saw a darky regiment. Rations are coming in freely on the cars.
Monday, February 22, 1864.
SPECULATION HIGH! HIGH! I sent a letter containing eight dollars to W. B. Salisbury and Co. of Providence, R.I. for a case of gold pens and a letter containing 2 dollars to {-.W.} Everett and Co. 111 Main Street Box 1614 for Union Pins and 50 cts. to F. Collins and Co. Cornwall {?}Half rations of sugar and coffee and a pint of corn meal a day and meat enough.
Tuesday 23
(Blank.)
Wednesday, February 24, 1864.
I went to the city of Knoxville and bought 15 dollars worth of tobacco. After I got back, while cooking supper, my new diary that my wife sent me fell out of my pocket into the fire and burned half up. I felt very bad about it.
Thursday 25
(Blank.)
Friday, February, 26, 1864.
I went over to town and bought memorandum. Paid 1.25 for the diary and .65 for a pencil and got two violin strings.
Saturday 27
I strung up my fiddle and Ben and I played together - he on his claronet[sic] and I on my fiddle.
Sunday, February 28, 1864.
MOVE.
Left to Knoxville at 12 N. [mile or noon?] and marched 9 mile on a hard {dry wad}. Encamped in the woods. Put up our tent and made a bed of leaves. Made coffee and had supper. Ben was detailed for guard duty. The 65th Ill. [Illinois] and 24th R. {3} enc. [encamped] on the otherside of the road. Has been a fine day but looks like rain.
Monday 29
Did not get up very early for it rained all night. Swallowed our coffee in a hurry and started at 8 o'clock. Marched on the R.R. [railroad] a part of the way. Arrived at the plains about noon. Waited near the river 'til near night in the rain to cross and then camped on this side. Had an awful rainy night. Were mustered for eight months pay.
Tuesday, March 1, 1864.
STRAWBERRY PLAINS
Rained all day. Ben and I lay abed nearly all day to keep out of the rain. In the evening I and Beck was detailed to go on pickit. Ben and Milo went with us. We slept in a barn and had a fire and dried our wet clothes a little. I did not sleep until after 2 o'clock.
Wednesday 2
The sun {eosi} clear and we dried our wet blankets and had a pleasant day. Ben and I went into the {Dr.'s} house and had a sing with the women. The relief came in the evening. We pitched our tent and stayed till morning.
Thursday, March 3, 1864.
Ben and I took Beck and Milo and left the pickit post and went out into the country to get some rations. We went six miles. Got some corn. Got it ground. Got a pail of honey and a sieve and two canteens of molasses and came home and put up our tents and rested from our labors.
Friday 4
We went and got some boards and raised our tents and built a fireplace -and so we spent the day. Fine weather and I feel well and healthy. I read a letter from my Wife mailed Feb. 24th. Shelly had a bad cold. The rest are well.
Saturday, March 5, 1864.
Ben went with a team after corn. And Co. B. went Pickit out about two miles. I was on one post with Caleb and Wm. (William) Cook and J.L. (Hitz).
Monday, March 7, 1864.
Cloudy morning. Eight men detailed to work on the bridge. Rained a little - I was in the tent nearly all day. I read a letter from my wife mailed Feb. 28th and one from Sister Mary Dunhamy of the same date. All are well. I put a letter in the bag for my wife.
Tuesday 8
Had a fine day. Ben worked on the bridge. In the afternoon I went over the river and got my fiddle. Bought an 8 string off a soldier for 20cts. and then sold the fiddle for two dollars. Then I bought 16 large plugs and 10 small plugs of tobacco for ($11.40) eleven dollars and forty cts. I drew a pair of socks by lottery. Sanitary socks. I drew a pair for Beck also.
Wednesday, March 9, 1864.
I worked at the bridge - made some auger handles and cut some threads on bolts etc. In the afternoon while trying to unhitch the rope from some iron in the river I lost my balance and had to jump into the river and I got wet up to my waist. Sold all of my tobacco for 1.00 a plug to the boys and trust til payday.
Thursday 10
The 1st and 2nd brigades left the Plain at 12 o'clock. Marched 13 miles. Ben and I and lots of others fell behind and we slept in a corn house. Had a good place out of the rain. (A.J.) Mills gave me his overcoat and I carried it about 6 miles and sold it to a darky for one dollar. Very warm marching.
Friday, March 11, 1864.
Encamped at Mossy Creek. Moved our camp across the R.R. and pitched our tents in Brigade line. After dinner I went up to the village and into the grist mill and across the creek back through the 9th (a. g. or c.) Weather Cool. Health good. I drew 2 pr. socks.
Saturday 12
Left our camp near mossy creek at sunrise and arrived at Morristown at 3p.m., warm and tired and footsore. Saw Maj. Gen. Scofield and Gen. Cox. In the evening I wrote a letter to my wife. Weather warm. Health good. Saw Mrs. Gilbert ( the miller's wife). She was very much pleased to see us. Had sold out.
Sunday, March 13, 1864.
Some skirmishing in front. We could see them firing. One of the 24th R. was shot in the head - not killed. The reb's lost - 7 killed and some prisoners and wounded. This was toward night. I forgot that it was the sabbath. I rec'd a case of one dozen gold pens by mail from Salisbury & Co., Providence, R.I.
Monday 14
We had Company and Batallion drill and dress parade. Some fighting reported in front today. Ben got back from Dyke's - like to have got taken by the reb's. Weather cool. I had Wm. (William Rump) clean my watch. Paid him 75 cents.
Tuesday, March 15, 1864.
Morristown
Cold and windy day. The 103rd went on pickit. Ben and I was on the reserve. Had a coldnight.
I went over to the mill to try and get some flour but could not.
Wednesday 16
Ben and I went down to David Noe's and got some breakfast and paid fifty cents worth of coffee (1/2 lb.) and fifty cents. Then I went to the mill and got 5 lbs. worth of flour for 50 cents. Then went to the house and fixed Mr. Raynolds clock.
Thursday, March 17, 1864.
In camp at Morristown we signed the Payrolls for 8 months pay. There is 5.65 due me on last years clothing. Washed my clothes (last night) at Rev. Stubblefield's house. Drew rations in the evening.
Friday 18
Got up at 5 o'clock and got ready to march at 7 {1/2} o'clock and started at 9 o'clock. We marched in columns by divisions - left infront - for three miles through the field then took the road. Stopped at Panther [Springs] for dinner (5 miles). Arrrived at Mossy Creek at 5 O'clock very tired and dirty for the wind blew a storm of dust.
Saturday, March 19, 1864.
MOSSY CREEK
We lay in camp all day and straightened out tents in line. And I wrote some and traded pens with Beck and ( )
Sunday 20
Got up early. Had roll call and policed the street. Then had company inspection all right. Went down to the creek and had a wash. The meat was dealt out and we got none on the acct of one shiftless orderly. There is an order granting furloughs again but it was countermanded this afternoon.
Monday, March 21, 1864.
The 103rd went on pickit this afternoon. Our reserve was near the cotton factory of Mr. {Feine}. There is quite a little village here called Lowell Town. The Mossy Creek has a finemill on it. The best or smartest women (make) 5.00 a week. They work from morning to night.
Tuesday 22
On Pickit. It commenced to snow about day light and snowed all day and at night. The snow was 8 inches deep. We had a very unpleasant time in the snow. We were relieved when it was just dark and went to camp and put up our tents and built a fire in front. Scraped the snow off our bed and made ourselves comfortable.
Wednesday, March 23, 1864.
Our shoes were frozen so hard this morning that we could not get them on. In the afternoon I went and traded 10 pens and holders for a lever watch. (H)eitz offered me $15.00 for it. The crystal was gone and it does not run. Drew hard bread this evening at 9 o'clock. Read a letter from my wife of March 7th.
Thursday 24
I wrote a letter - inclosed (sic) $5.00 for gold pens No.5-1 of gold -3.00 and No. 4-2 (paul) $2.00 to A. Morton, No. 25 Maiden Lane, NewYork. I also sent two pens to be repointed. Sister (Lane) was very sick with the Erycipedas in the head.
Friday, March 25, 1864.
I made a handle for my hatchet and worked at a ring made of a dime. Went to a grind stone and I and Roman did lots of grinding - hatchets and knives. [And] in the evening I wrote to my wife or commenced a letter. Sold (T.-J.) Ridik (V-er) a silver ring for $1.00. Pay day
Saturday 26
PAYDAY Rained last night. Ben and I slept very nicely last night. No crackers for breakfast. I read a letter from my wife and one from Rev. Wm. Campbell. We got 8 months pay this evening. Co. B. was the 2nd Company payed. I sent home 100 dollars by state agent.
Sunday, March 27, 1864.
MOSSY CREEK
A fine pleasant morning. The boys are paying up their debts. I rec'd of the Paymaster $109.60. I sold my watch for $16.00 to Tom Stokes. Ben and I walked out, up town and saw sights and had a talk of home and {such}.
Monday 28
In camp all day. I made a little saw to saw silver and (c.)I saw H. Hubbard and Geo. (George) Patterson in Shields Battery. I washed and put a pocket in my pants and went to bed with a very very bad headache.
Tuesday, March 29, 1864.
Rained hard all night. I got up in the morning feeling very well. I worked on my pants. Then we went on pickit. Ben and I built a good house of rails and covered it with Pine bough sand leaves.
Wednesday 30
ON PICKIT
I was on duty twice last night. I went down to Lowelltown to buy some silver and could not get any. I cleaned a clock for Mrs. Smith. The girls want some rings made. After we were relieved, Ben and I went to the river. I shot a fox squirrel and got four dimes. Letter from Wife of the 23rd.
Thursday, March 31, 1864.
MOSSY CREEK
I made (and) sold two silver rings for 50 cents each. We had a fine day. The sun shone bright and warm. I was on guard this night. Rained last night.
Friday, April 1, 1864
Marched at 8 o'clock in the rain and mud. Arrived at Morristown at 3'o'clock and went on four miles and encamped in the woods. Wet and cold. Ben got some flax for a bed and we slept well.
Marched 18 miles.
Saturday, April 2, 1864.
Left camp at 7 a.m. Marched 12 miles and encamped near Bulls Gap in the woods again. Ben got some clover for a bed while I put up the tent. Then we built a good large fire and lay down and took a rest.
Sunday 8
BULLS GAP
Went to the depo [sic] after noon. Heard some preaching by a chaplain at the 104th camp. The cars came in and went out while we were there. Fine day. Warm & sunny.
Monday, April 4, 1864.
SPECULATION (Ed. note: This is consistent with other location titles - in caps.)
Rained last night quite hard. I sold two silver rings - 50 cents each. Then Ben and I had a sing. I enclosed ($23.) twenty three dollars and sent it to A. Morton. No. 25 Maiden Lane, New York for one dozen gold pens and cases. Ben and I laid down before dark and when I awoke it was bed time so we spread the bed.
Tuesday 5
BULLS GAP
We had a rainy night.I went to a home nearby and gave two dollars for one of silver and got one quarter to make for half. I made two rings of it and sold mine for 50 cents and made one of another quarter and sold it for 1.50. Then went out and bought 1.25 more of silver - gave two for one. Sold a watch for (Lieutenant) Kennedy for three dollars and he gave me one.
Wednesday, April 6, 1864.
I made 3 rings and sold them - one to (J.) Irwin for two dollars and one to Shroeder for 50 cts. and c. (Change?) Pleasant day. I went up to the 63rd Ill (Illinois) and bought four silver quarters and sold them for 2.00.
Thursday 7
I worked at rings again and linked 9 dimes together for a watch chain for Lawrence of Co. K. 24 R. Sold Page a ring (for) 1.50. Ben and Poole and I went out and had a sing with some ladies. Had a piece of pie. Came home at 10. Our tent caught fire and burned badly and Ben burned his hands.
Friday, April 8, 1864.
BULLS GAP
We patched our tent the first thing, then got breakfast, then it rained. I made a ring of a quarter. Sold it for 1.50 to (J.T.) Ricker and finished three rings for a fellow in the 8th Tenn. for 1.00 I went to the 63rd Indiana and gave 2.00 for 10 dimes.
Saturday 9
I worked at rings and c. The day was quite pleasant.
Sunday, April 10, 1864.
I rec'd a letter from H. Morton New York containing two gold pens and silver cases. Sold one to (H.K.) Coflinger for 3.50 and one to C. Jones for 4. I wrote to my wife and read. Went to the depo when the cars came and got a Harper's Weekly for 25 cents. Rainy day.
Monday 11
I read two {quills} of good letter paper from home. And made three rings and sold them. Bought 1.35 in silver - paid 2.50. Ben is not very well. My health is good. 13 new recruits came to camp today from Cleveland.
Tuesday, April 12, 1864.
BULLS GAP
I went to the Division Blacksmiths and it rained as soon as I got back to camp. I pounded out five rings. Brightman came up with our blankets and the cooking utensils. I bought a revolver for 3.00 because it would not revolve which I soon fixed.
Wednesday 13
There is a great many getting sick here - bad water and low ground. I went to the Blacksmith's again and got a hammer and a punch made for a ring.
Thursday, April 14, 1864.
I was sick. I went out to drill and had to go in to camp again. Sold a ring to Stubs for 1.50 Ben bought 1/2 lb tea for 60 cents. Couldn't eat anything today - only drink a little tea. Read a letter from my wife mailed the 7th containing 10 and 5 centpieces in silver. My wife is not well.
Friday 15
I had a miserable night but felt better in the morning. Worked a little on a ring and fixed my revolver and c.
Saturday, April 16, 1864.
We moved camp about half a mile for our health's sake. I was not well. Went to the doctor this morning and took some oil and pills. Ben went and got some corn meal for (us) and in the evening we drew a few potatoes and some sour kraut. Felt quite (?).
Sunday 17
Got up late. Ben is sick and I feel better. Cooked some potatoes and cabbage and cornbread that was so good that I am now most well.
Monday, April 18, 1864.
I put a letter in the bag for my Wife containing $10.00. Ben and I are both unwell. We had a general inspection this forenoon by Lt. Knowles of Gen. Mauson's Staff. Made two rings. Sold one for 50 cts. I took a powder [medecine] and slept a long time.
Tuesday 19
I feel pretty poorly this morning. Later I worked some. Sold one ring for .75 cents. I feel pretty stupid. Ben went and got a pint of whiskey of the Dr. for our infirmities.
Wednesday, April 20, 1864.
I reads a letter from my wife (Apr 13) I got up early and built a fire and c. Finished up a black ring for a man and then went out to find something to eat. All I got was a little milk and some bread. Ben got 6 eggs and we cooked four for supper. I sold two rings for 3.00 I am on duty to night.
Thursday 21
I feel much better and can do some work. Sold two rings (2.50). Read a letter from my wife dated Mar. 31st. It was mis-sent. Ben went over to (Rev/Mr.) Alltons and sold the pork and traded the crackers for flour - a good trade.
Friday, April 22, 1864.
BULLS GAP
I received one dozen gold pens from New York. Sold two - one No. 5 and No. 3 for 4.50 and 3.00. Generals Scoefield, Cox and Manson viewed us on dress parade. I made two rings. Sold one to (H.) Bradford for .75 cents Ben and I went and picked some (greens) for supper. Baked biscuits for supper.
Saturday 23
I fixed a revolver for one dollar and sold a ring for 50 cents. Orders to be ready to march at 2 o'clock in the morning. Packed my knapsack and baked some biscuit to carry.
Sunday, April 24, 1864.
Left Bull's Gap at 2 A.M. - bright moonlight. I fell behind. Had a very hard march. Only two files were up with the reg. (regiment?) in Co. B. We arrived at camp two miles east of Greenville at 3 o'clock. Marched 23 miles. I was very tired and lame. Ben did not come. 7 miles from Knoxville to Greenville.
Monday 25
GREENVILLE
Left our camp near Greenville. I had to get a pass and fall behind. I kept up 8 miles then rested and went on alone and stopped at Leesburgh. 18 miles. I stayed at a good place - Mr. James Duvalts. I had a good supper, good bed and good breakfast. Then I started on - then turned back. Stopped at Mr. D.'s again.
Tuesday, April 26, 1864.
I left Mr. Duvalts at 9 o'clock arriving at our camp of the first night near Greenville. I and a man from Richmond put up a house and had supper and went to bed. (Ed. Note: Illegible- crossed out) Got up early. Gave the man a dollar and went to [?} We got a good dinner on the way.
Wednesday 27
We got up early and went to Greenville and got our breakfast from a poor widow's. Then we marched on the RR and overtook the teams at Blue Springs. I put my knapp sack on a wagon and rode some. Got to Bull's Gap before sundown. Ben was gone to Knoxville and Morristown.
Thursday, April 28, 1864.
(Notation in upper right corner: "20") I sent my Wife a 20 dollar bill. The first thing I heard this morning was our reg. coming into camp. We took the cars at noon and arrived at Knoxville before night (55miles). Left their [?] at dark and arrived at Loudon at 11 o'clock (29 miles). Encamped for the night.
Friday 29
LOUDON
We drew rations in the morning and started for Charleston. Marched 19 miles (that day); taking dinner at the Sweet Water Creek. Camped in the woods on the leaves. Had a good bed. Was very tired.
Saturday, April 30, 1864.
Started early. Walked on the track. I got 20 miles and Beck and I stopped, completly tired out. We rested an hour or two and went to a barn and slept. Got a little milk of the folks for our coffee and gave them some coffee.
Sunday May 1
Beck and I went on to Charleston and found the regiment and moved camp and cleaned it up. Went with Chaplain Hubbard to his room and got a package of Maple sugar from Sister Mary Dunham of Strongville Ohio. Chaplain preached in the afternoon. I read a letter from Sister Jane Boner of (A)ssian Liv. Co. N.Y.
Monday May 2, 1864.
(Notation-upper right: "20". - amount sent to his wife) We cleaned up camp and c. I sold six gold pens and fixed a revolver in the afternoon. I sent a letter to my Wife containing a 20 dollar bill and read one from her in the afternoon.
Tuesday 3
We left camp at 5 o'clock and marched 10 miles toward Dalton and encamped and took a good rest. Then I had to go on pickit out in the woods.
Thursday 5
On pickit 14 miles from (Dalton Hollow) Geo. on the K. & D. R.R. Were relieved and went to camp about 5 o'clock (illegible). Wrote a letter to Sister Mary Dunham. A pickit was shot this morning by a reb. I cut off a dress coat and made me a jacket. We were in battle line this evening.
Friday, May 6, 1864.
"20" The reg't (regiment) came back from pickit this afternoon and piched(sic) our tents in a new place and had orders to march early in the morning. I read a letter from my Wife and wrote one in answer and enclosed a 20 dollar bill. She had read my letter containing 10 dollars.
Saturday 7
We marched at daylight toward Tunnel Hill (?) Went six miles and laid low [?] for the day and night. Heard some canon(ading). Report says (Bugards) Gap and Tunnel Hill is ours.
Sunday, May 8, 1864.
8 miles from Tunnel Hill. We had Reville at 3 1/2, built fires dried out our tents and got breakfast. Marched a few (euds) and stacked arms. Moved forward again. Co. B. went (?) into the woods. Hard skirmishing and soon after, canonading. I wrote to Jane and Father and Mother.
Monday 9
BLANK
Tuesday May 10, 1864.
BLANK
Wednesday 11
We lay in camp on the road two miles from potatoe hill. Our cavalry went out to meet the rebels. A man came in on his horse shot through the knee. I helped to carry him. He belonged to the 8th (Torvill) Cav.
Thursday, May 12, 1864.
We left camp at 4 1/2 and marched to tunnell hill and on through the woods to the right.
Friday 13
BLANK
Saturday, May 14, 1864.
Wounded in the field. (at) 11 o'clock one of the 111th (?) Ohio was wounded; a ball in his foot. His leg was amputated on the field in a few minutes. There is seven generals in sight; Thomas, McLane, Cox, Manson, Scofield. We charged the works at 1 o'clock. Was wounded in the cheek at 3 o'clock.
Sunday 15
Ben came over to the house where I stayed and we got breakfast and then I went to the hospital and helped wait on the wounded. Several arms and legs were taken off. Such awful sights. I felt quite small. The fight is going on furiously.
Monday May 16, 1864.
The battle lasted all night. The reb's made a desperate effort to breakout. The firing ceased this morning. I went to the battlefield in the afternoon. Twas an awful sight to behold.
Tuesday 17
About 100 wounded came to the cars on foot - 10 miles. Also 10 ambulance loads that could not walk. Sargeant L. Prindle (?) and I (1) from Co. B. We () the cars at Tilton Station; Passed through Tunnell Hill, Ringold and Dalton and reached Chatanooga at midnight. Slept in the depo. Went 1/2 mile to the hospital in the morn.
Wednesday, May 18, 1864.
CHATANOOGA
Prindle and I got into an ambulance this morning and went to the General Hospital. Div. No. 8 had to wait in the cold for our tents to be put up. Three in a tent with good cots to lay on. My wound does not trouble me much. I washed some clothse [sic] and wrote to my Wife. I went to the (suttlers) and bought 1 lb. cheese - 50 cents, can milk -25 cents, 1 lb. crackers - 25 cents, paper and envelopes and 1 can blackberries.
Thursday 19
I sent a letter to my Wife with a pen holder for a gold pen that I sent her. I washed some more clothse [sic] and went down to the stream saw mills. There is six of them in sight .. all circular saws. Abe (Ruscue) is here and Caleb and Wm. Cook from our company.
Friday, May 20, 1864.
I got up with the colic [sic] which was very severe and lasted 3/4 of the day. My face is getting very sore on my lower jaw. I wrote a letter to my mother and father and sister. A lot of wounded were sent to Nashville today. I would like to go home and see my family.
Saturday 21
U.S.A. General Hospital, Division No. 8, 18th Ward My face is very sore this morning. We got up at sunrise or before. I shall have to keep pretty still today. I had a hard day of it.
Sunday, May 22, 1864.
I feel some better this morning and have taken a dose of oil. Now we are going to Nashville. The train starts at 2:40. We are in freight cars. Traveled all night and we're almost as far from Nashville as we had a hard time. We were fired on by guerillas.
Monday 23
We arrived at Nashville about 3 o'clock and got to the hospital at 4 o'clock all tired out and sick. I went to bed soon and rested. My face was badly swollen with a touch of the eryecipelas.{}
Tuesday, May 24, 1864.
Nashville General Hospital No. 19
I feel worse today and took some pills in the evening which relieved me greatly. Some went to Louisville today.
Wednesday 25
Had my face burned with iodine. How awful it makes a man look. Found Carrie McNair.
Thursday, May 26, 1864.
Am well provided for but not so in my face. Had a terrible night.
Friday 27
Felt not much better. Can't see much.
Saturday, May 28, 1864.
Felt badly.
Sunday 29
Nashville
I feel better today. Put on my clothes and walked around some and wrote this and {c}.
Monday, May 30, 1864.
BLANK
Tuesday 31
Left Nashville at 5 o'clock.P.M. Gallatin 6.0, Franklin KY. 8:00 Bowling Green 9:00
Wednesday, June 1, 1864.
Arrived at Louisville at 4:30. Took ambulance. Went to the river. Crossed in a boat to Jeffersonville and went to a hospital. Had some breakfast. Got check for my baggage and clean clothes. Feel pretty slim. I wrote to my wife.
Thursday 2
I feel some better. Had bread and molasses for breakfast. Baked beans and pork for dinner. Cold rainy day. We had fires and went to the store and bought a portfolio and paper and envelopes. Cost .70. Wrote some.
Friday, June 3, 1864.
I went to breakfast at 5 o'clock. Had bread and butter and coffee without any sugar. Sent a letter to my wife.I feel very strange. I went over to the tents.
Saturday 4
Nothing of interest happened here today. I am getting along very well. We had a meeting tonight.
Sunday, June 5, 1864.
I went to breakfast. Had bread and beef and coffee. I went to the {sutler} and got a pint of milk and some cakes and made out a breakfast. I bought a wallet. Paid .80 cents. I wrote a letter to my mother and all at home.
Monday 6
I feel some better today. My face is doing well. I bought a can of condensed milk. Paid 55 cents. We had bread and mollasses and tea for supper. Afternoon cool and rainy. No chance for a furlough for me.
Tuesday, June 7, 1864.
Jeffersonville, Ind.
Our army is doing well and things look favorable for the Union. I feel about the same today. Head not quite clear yet. I saw Dan Keef today in ward 9. The day was quite cool. I saw in the paper today of the arrivals at Nashville of Theodore Osborn 107 N.Y. Co. wounded in left cheek.
Wednesday 8
Everything goes on as usual. Nothing new or interesting. My name was taken for a pair of shoes. My face is pretty sore.I never had such an inclination to go to the store and buy things to eat as now. I can hardly keep away. Hundreds here have no money.
Thursday, June 9, 1864
Jeffersonville, Ind.
We had a hard rain with thunder and lightning. The ward master asked me today if I would like to go to my regiment. Icould not see going until I got some letters from home. Those that are like to be unfit for duty for a long time are being sent to hospitals in their own states. I am too sound to go. Read a letter from Rose. (?) was gone to Strongville.{Vertical overwriting}I went to prayer meeting this morning and led the singing.
Friday 10
Went to breakfast at the 2nd table. Had bread, cold pack and coffee without any trimmings. After dinner I wrote a letter to my wife. Then came orders for me to go so we got our baggage and marched to the river. Went on a boat and crossed to Louisville and marched about three miles to Park Barracks. Quartered in a tent.
Saturday, June 11, 1864.
PARK BARRACKS
We were cat hauled about. No one seemed to know what they wanted to do. We were formed into companies - [Fin..cott] numbering 89. Lame wounded and sick all together. Some companies were armed yesterday with Austrian rifles. My face is worse and I ought not to be here.
Sunday 12
My face has [erycipelas] in it and pains me and is much worse. They took names for artillery and I had a notion to go but my face was too bad. Had lots of beans and pork, bread and vinnegar for dinner. Quite windy today. Dr. [Dudley] dressed my wound and poulticed my face and was very kind. Said he would send me back to the hospital.
Monday June 13, 1864.
The Dr. (Dr, Dudley) gave me a ticket to go back to the hospital at Jeffersonville. We got into an ambulance and arrived at the hospital at 12 1/2 o'clock. They put me into the tents - Ward 3. I like the Dr. here much better. He talks like a sensible man. My face pains me very much. Read a letter from my wife. Strongsville.
Tuesday 14
Tent Ward 3
My face pained me all night. I have a flax seed poultice on it. It will have to be lanced I think. I wrote to my wife to come and visit me. The letter will go out in the morning.
Wednesday, June 15, 1864.
I [kept] around here and there. Went to Ward 7 and had a sing with Mary Abbott and another lady and a young Dr. He was too full of foolery to sing much. I had no trouble to keep up with any of them. They had the (jubilee).
Thursday 16
I got a pass and went downtown and bought me a hat - 2.50 and a pair of shoes - 2.00 and paid 5.00 for repairing my watch at (J. B. Goustond). Got back at five o'clock tired and stiff necked. In the evening a pail of lemonade came into the Ward and I bought it for.50 cts. and treated the boys. Read letter from Mother.
Friday, June 17, 1864.
I stayed at Ward 7 last night. My face pained me very much. Dr. of the 7th Ward told them to paint my face with iodine. Ward 3 The Dr. came along and said he would try to have me transferred to Ohio. I went to his tent at 3 o'clock and he made out my medical discipline list.
Saturday 18
Jeffersonville, Ward 7
I keep just about the same. My cheek pains me badly day and night. I suppose my wife has gotten my letter this evening. I had a sing with the ladies and others.
Sunday, June 19, 1864.
Inspection today at 10 1/2.
I brought my baggage up to Ward 7. I went to the [Strincery] hall at 3 o'clock and heard a sermon then I came back to the ward and had a sing with Massachusetts and Michigan and Wisconsin men. All good singers.
Monday 20
Jeffersonville Hospital
I got a pass and went to the jewelers and took him my watch again. Got back and felt worse. A heavy rain and sharp lightning and thunder at 2 1/2 and 3 o'clock.
Tuesday, June 21, 1864.
Jeffersonville, U.S. General Hospital
I looked for my wife this evening. I read a letter from her saying she would leave Cleveland at 2:25 Monday. My face was quite bad today. The weather is very warm.
Wednesday 22
Friends come. I look for Margaret here this morning. I sat up a part of the night last night. Lester and my Wife drove up to the door of Ward 7 at 9 o'clock. They did not know me.
Lester went out and engaged board at Mr. French's near by. I went and stayed at Mr French's nights.
Thursday, June 23, 1864.
We visited and went about to see the hospital and c. and Lester went to work to get me transferred to Cleveland and Dr. Sands reported favorable for me. Lester carried the papers back and forth and hurried things up as fast as possible.
Friday 24
The transfer was to be sent over this morning but it don't come so we wait and visit.
Saturday, June 25, 1864.
No transfer today.
Sunday 26
I spent the most of the day with my wife at Mr. French's.About one hundred furloughs came over today.
Monday, June 27, 1864.
Jeffersonville, Ward 7
We are watching anxiously for my transfer to come. Hurrah! here comes my papers at 11 o'clock. The boat starts at 12 o'clock. We must hurry up. One o'clock - onboard the General [Buck] and starting for Cincinnati.
Tuesday 28
Arrived at Cincinnati at 5 o'clock. Took the cars and went to Euclid Street Station and took the freight train for Bedford and got there before sundown.
Wednesday, June 29, 1864.
BLANK
Thursday 30
BLANK
Friday, July 1, 1864.
BLANK
Saturday 2
AT HOME
Father and Mother Osborn came over from Lesters. They got there last night. In the evening Eliza and Rose and I made some ice cream. Uncle Chauncey was up.
Sunday, July 3, 1864.
Went to church in the afternoon with Father and Mother, then went up to Lester's. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell went with us in the evening and stayed over night.
Monday 4
BEDFORD - AT HOME
At home with my family, having a very quiet time. My Father and Mother and Lester and Eliza and the children are here to dinner. I wrote a letter to the Ward Master of Ward 7, Jeffersonville, Ind. (?) The weather is cool. My health is improving.
Tuesday, July 5, 1864.
CLEVELAND HOSPITAL
I took the cars at Bedford at 8 o'clock and reported to the surgeon in charge at 9 1/2 o'clock.
I am in Ward D. Wrote to my Wife immediately.
Wednesday 6
Ward D.
I was in the yard all day. The day was a long one for me. I had several sings during the day. We live well enough here. We had a fine rain toward night.
Thursday, July 7, 1864.
It is raining now, quite hard. I made a written application for furlough, and in the afternoon it was[made out/approved] Time: 15 days.
Friday 8
Cool and cloudy this morning. My Wife and Rose and Shelly came in to see me. I got a pass for the day. I went to the city and got Margaret's watch repaired and after they left for home I bought a pair of pants and blouse and suspenders for 12.50. Got back at five o'clock.
Saturday, July 9, 1864.
BLANK
Sunday 10
I got a pass and went to the 2nd Presbyterian Church. Text: 2 Cor. 4th, Chapter 7th verse. After church I called on [Lient] [at the] Spencer's folks and got dinner and had a good visit. Saw Spencer's brother from Washington. I wrote to Ben B. and my wife.
Monday July 11, 1864.
I wrote a letter to [Mrs. B.F.B.] - Ed. Ben's Wife? of Poughkeepsie, N.Y. and enclosed ten dollars and walked about from place to place as usual.
Tuesday 12
I got a pass and went over to the city and saw [A. Cody] and paid out three dollars and ten cents for tools and buttons to make rings with. When I got back they had me marked for the front to go tomorrow. I went to the Dr, and got my name struck off from the list.
Wednesday, July 13, 1864.
I got up early and went to work rimming out buttons. I got my furlough at four o'clock and started for home at five o'clock. I walked to the Charter Oak House and got a ride to the Plank road House and walked home. Arrived at nine o'clock.
Thursday 14
BLANK
Friday, July 15, 1864.
BLANK
Saturday 16
BLANK
Sunday, July 17, 1864.
BLANK
Monday 18
BLANK
Tuesday, July 19, 1864.
BLANK
Wednesday 20
AT HOME
We went down to B.d. (Whelocke) to dinner then I went to the factory and foundry then home we went. I went to the depo. We went to Mr. Chester Purdy's in the evening and had ice cream.
Thursday, July 21, 1864.
Margaret and I walked up to Uncle Chauncey and had a visit. Saw Mr. Follensby. Ella's beaux, Erwin, brought us home in the evening.
Friday 22
BLANK
Saturday, July 23, 1864.
I went to the foundry and made a rimmer and was gone until three o'clock. Sister Mary came from Strongsville to see me.
Sunday 24
BEDFORD
We attended the funeral of W.M. Hathaway's only child at one o'clock then Margaret and I went with Mary Dunham to Strongsville. We got there. Just back.
Monday, July 25, 1864.
Strongsville.
The morning was dark and [lowry] and it began to rain about noon. We started for home at 2 o'clock and got home at 6 o'clock - it rained all the way.
Tuesday 26
BEDFORD
I washed the harness and buggy and c. in the afternoon. I went with Margaret and Frank and Sheldon to [Osros] on a visit.
Wednesday, July 27, 1864.
I worked at home. Went to Lester's in the evening. He was gone to (Aurora).
Thursday 28
I went to the foundry and made a punch and engraving tool and c. Margaret and I went to Mr. [J.J. Cammeron] visiting in the afternoon. Saw Mr. Warner and Wife from Princeton, IL. Lester and wife went to Franklin to see Dr. Sawyers.
Friday, July 29, 1864.
CLEVELAND
10 o'clock I took the 8 o'clock train and went to Cleveland. Reported at the hospital at eleven. The surgeon in charge said all right - repost to your ward. I made a ring and sold one (.35)I met a lady on the street (Mrs. Billings) and she asked me in to eat some cake. Saw Mrs. E. L. Knowlton. Lake Street.
Saturday 30
CLEVELAND
I carried water to scrub with. I wrote a letter to my wife and worked at rings in the evening. About a hundred went to the river to swim.
Sunday, July 31, 1864.
I attended meetings at the reading room twice, and prayer meetings in the evening. I had a sing with four Ladies. They left before the meeting was out.
Monday, August 1.
I did not feel so well this morning. Took some medecine. Margaret came in to see me.
Tuesday, August 2, 1864.
I worked as usual. Sarah Bowman No 95 Pearl Street West Side
Wednesday 3
I got a pass and went down town. I went to the boat and found Father and Mother and Rose and Frank and Aunt Mary and Ella there. They are going to Buffalo on the boat.
Thursday, August 4, 1864.
We had Divine service at 10 o'clock. This is the day appointed by the President for Thanksgiving and prayer.
Friday 5
I sold my watch to Tom Stokes. Took a debt against A. Beck of 10 dollars and five dollars in cash. I made two rings today. Sold one for one dollar. Bought milk for supper.
Saturday, August 6, 1864.
I got a pass of 30 hours and got home at one o'clock.
Sunday 7
I was at home. Did not go to meeting.
Monday, August 8, 1864.
Monday morning. I had a very restless night with pain in my left elbow. Bought Orton's watch for 8 dollars. Got a cristal (sic) put in - 25 cents. I received a letter from A. Morton and wrote him by return mail.
Tuesday 9
I was in the hospital all day.
Wednesday August 10, 1864.
BLANK
Thursday 11
I got a pass this morning for 27 hours from 7 o'clock tomorrow. I filled my bed with straw.
Friday, August 12, 1864.
I took the morning train and got home about 9 o'clock. I found Shelly sick, but better. Mr. and Mrs. Matteson and Wm. and (Haley) Halbert.
Saturday 13
Bedford
I took the morning train for Cleveland and got to the hospital just before dinner.
Sunday, August 14, 1864.
I attended meeting at the reading room.
Monday 15
I was marked for the front this morning.
Tuesday, August 16, 1864.
I made six rings today.
Wednesday 17
I was detailed as one of the nurses in ward 8 and must go to work.
Thursday, August 18, 1864.
My wife came in with Mr. Campbell to Cleveland and she and Shelly came to the hospital and stayed all day. I rode home with them. I had a pass for 27 hours. The doctor passed me out.
Friday 19
BEDFORD
I was at home all day. Saw Mr. Comstock and had a talk with him. I gave James Wheelock a ring. He gave me a piece of thick gutapercha for five rings.
Saturday, August 20, 1864.
BEDFORD
Took the cars at 8 o'clock for Cleveland. Arrived at 10.
Sunday 21
I attended meeting at the reading room.
Monday, August 22, 1864.
CLEVELAND
I was marked for the front and will soon leave this place.
Tuesday 23
Left Cleveland
I was called up early to take the cars for the front. Grafton 7 1/2 Wellington 7.50 Rochester 8.5 New London 8.20 Shelby 9 A.M. Crestline 9 1/2(Galliob) 9:54 Cardington 10:35 Delaware 11:30(Swiss) Centre 11:43 Columbus 12:10 Left my wallet under my pillow.
Wednesday, August 24, 1864.
Columbus
I took the cars for Cincinnati last night at 9 o'clock and rode all night and arrived at Cincinnati at 4:15 this morning and went to (Lytte) barracks.
Thursday 25
We took the boat General Anderson and left Cincinnati at 12 noon forLouisville. Arrived at louisville at 12 midnight. Stayed on the boat till morning then went to Exchange Barracks.
Friday, August 26, 1864.
EXCHANGE BARRACKS, LOUISVILLE
We arrived here at 6 0'clock in the evening. 77 men were detailed for duty at Barracks No. 1 and I was one of the number. {cross out} I was on duty. Corporal of the 3rd relief.
Saturday 27
BARRACKS NO. 1 LOUISVILLE, KY.
I got a pass and went over to Jeffersonville. Saw Mary Abbott and Georgia.
Sunday, August 28, 1864.
I got a pass and went to Jeffersonville and saw some of my friends there.
Monday 29
BLANK
Tuesday, August 30, 1864.
I worked at rings. In the evening I took twenty darkies up to Taylor Barracks.
Wednesday 31
I was on guard duty 3rd relief.
Thursday, September 1, 1864.
BLANK
Friday 2
BLANK
Saturday, September 3,1864.
I was out and sold one ring and made two
Sunday 4
I was on duty. Had the first relief. It rained at night. The weather is very warm.
Monday, September 5, 1864.
I read a letter from my wife and sent her one and Rose one. Made two rings.
Tuesday 6
BLANK
Wednesday, September 7, 1864.
1. Eli M. Hilderbrand 252. Geo. Nagley 413. Jacob Blaze4. Zebulim Wolf 655. T. (Lirvis) 466. Wm. L. Flint 417. M. A. Look 378. Foglesonger 229. John L. Beck (crossed out) Sullivan 45
Thursday 8
13. Wm (Stein) 1210. Mole Blosan 2511. James O'Neal 12. Henry T. Pierson 27 Welch Sergt
Friday, September 9, 1864.
M. A. Look Hays 27 TRFortrey Multon Dunlop 4 Porter L. Lyberger 6 James Bradley 5 E. Marshall 71 T.R.
Saturday 10
I drew a pair of boots - 2.50 A knapsack - 1.85 One Pair Socks - .32 I was on guard. Had to lock the ball and chain on the prisoners at night when they go out.
Sunday, September 11, 1864.
I took a walk up to the old cemetery and wandered about very lonely.
Monday 12
I went with the guards up to the workhouse and took 12 prisoners up to Fort No. 4 - ten men and two boys. One belonged to the 40 thieves.
Tuesday, September 13, 1864.
I worked nearly all day. Made 5 rings. Burton 6-8 2-4 Wilson 8-10 4-6 Van Pool 10-12 6-8 Collinsworth 12-2 8-10
Wednesday 14
I sold 6 rings - 5.25 Bought a pocketbook for 1.50
Thursday, September 15, 1864.
M. A. Look 37 MI. R. Lewis 40 M (S) Joel North 70 B (S) John Abrams 42 B (S)E. Willard Peter Farrell 41 B Edward Hormel 48 B Friday 16 Reifsmiler Collingsworth (crossed out) Robison (crossed out) Williard (Maretay) J. R. Babcock
Saturday, September 17, 1864.
No. M. A. Look 1. C. C. A. Fortney 53 M 2. Hays 27 IR 3.C. James Bradley 68 L. B. 4.C. Peter Lyberger 53 B 6.C. E. Marshall 71 T R 7.C. McMahon 32 BR 8.C Henry Little {Joshua Garvin} .E
Sunday 18
Isiah 65 - 8 - 9
I leftMonday.
September 19, 1864.
$5I sent my wife five dollars in a letter.
Wednesday, September 21, 1864.
I have received clothing this year to the amount of $22.86.
Thursday 22
Left Louisville at five o'clock. Marched to New Albany. Crossed the river on a ferry. Took the cars from there at 9 P.M. Changed at(Meitchel).
Friday, September 23, 1864.
Arrived at (Odiva) at 8 P.M. Changed cars. Took the Illinois Central at 10 A.M. Arrived at Cairo at 4 P.M. Went to the soldiers home and got supper. Lay(ed) on the bench until 12 o'clock then went to bed.
Saturday 24
Cairo
Got up in time for breakfast. Went to the Christian commission room and wrote two letters - one to (my) wife and one to Sister Mary (D). Got dinner and walked out. Sold four rings. Lent Sergeant Gillett two dollars $2.00
Sunday, September 25, 1864.
Left Cairo at 12. We arrived at Centralia at 5:50.
Monday 26
We arrived at Louisville at 6 A.M.
Tuesday, September 27, 1864.
$10I sent my wife a letter containing ten dollars.
Wednesday 28
Lent Thomas Daugherty one dollar.
Thursday, September 29, 1864
I was on guard second relief. R. L. Hannerman Knoxville (Ill) Father of John W. Hannerman has the delyrium tremers [sic]. I read a letter from my wife.
Friday 30
I was on duty two days and nights. My wife started for Sparta today.
Saturday, October 1, 1864.
I let Vanbranken have my watch and seven rings to sell. I made two rings in the forenoon. Sold one ring - $1.00
Sunday 2
My knapsack was stolen last night (the following is crossed out) by S.S.Hippet 44. Il. I received a letter from Margaret and one from B. J. Wheelock
Monday, October 3, 1864.
$5 I sent my wife five dollars in a letter. Sold my watch for $25.Tuesday 4I bought a watch of T. Pierson for 17 dollars. Paid one dollar to get aspring in the case.
END REDACTION
Damian Hirst unveiled an extremely thought provoking artwork last week and the world shrugged. The piece which reportedly cost 20 million dollars to produce is comprised of the skull of a 19th century adult male that has been set with hundreds of high quality diamonds including a rare and fine light pink stone over fifty carats. The mandible was removed and recast in platinum and the teeth were inserted into the new precious grill. The asking price is $100 million dollars and supposedly there have already been several serious inquiries. I think it will sell - if the project isn't a hoax. Damian may want to be catchin' up with the Banksys.
Can the size difference be attributed to nutrition? 
I hesitate to start a rant about values, culture, the decline of all civilization. It would only lead to a profound sadness about Lindsay Lohan and the Salton Sea. I predict there will be limited general interest in Hirst's latest work and I don't want to feed any scrap of gawking.
Platinum carved to resemble wood grain with a great old family stone.
