22nd Wisconsin
Infantry Regiment
RosterBattles involving 22nd InfantryAssignments for 22nd Infantry Deaths of John W. Drought, Co. H & George W. Jacobs, Co. D, Twenty-second WI VolunteersExample of Soldier's Records Infomation- Organized on Sep 2 1862 at Camp Utley, Racine, WI
- Enlistment term: 3 years
- Mustered out on Jun 12 1865 at Washington, DC
Available statistics for total numbers of men listed as:
- Enlisted or commissioned: 1302
- Drafted: 220
- Transferred in: 1
- Killed or died of wounds (Officers): 2
- Killed or died of wounds (Enlisted men): 75
- Died of disease (Officers): 3
- Died of disease (Enlisted men): 163
- Prisoner of war: 154
- Died while prisoner of war: 4
- Disabled: 133
- Deserted: 42
- Discharged: 91
- Mustered out: 638
- Transferred out: 385
Twenty-second Infantry
WISCONSIN
(3-YEARS)
Twenty-second Infantry. -- Cols., William L. Utley, Edward Bloodgood; Lieut.-Col., Edward Bloodgood; Majs., Edward D. Murray Charles W. Smith.
This regiment was organized at Camp Utley, Racine and was mustered in Sept. 2, 1862. It left the state Sept. 16 for Cincinnati to aid in defending the city against a threatened attack.
On the 31st it was assigned to the 1st brigade, 1st division, Army of Kentucky, and for a time performed guard duty at Nicholasville. It was then sent to Danville, where it was occupied in scouring the country in pursuit of the enemy until Jan. 26, 1863, when it started for Franklin, Tenn.
On March 4 part of the regiment under Col. Utley joined a large foraging expedition to Spring Hill and during the march participated in two lively skirmishes. On March 25 about 300 men of different regiments under Lieut.-Col. Bloodgood, while guarding the railroad at Brentwood, were surprised, captured and sent to Richmond but were soon exchanged.
The regiment then moved to Nashville and in April to Lookout Valley, near Chattanooga. It left Lookout Valley on May 3, 1864, to take part in Sherman's Atlanta campaign.
It had a conspicuous part in the battle of Resaca, this being the regiment's first real battle. Its loss was 11 killed and 64 wounded. It participated in the actions about Dallas and was engaged in three smart skirmishes during the siege of Kennesaw Mountain. For its unflinching bravery in the battle of Peachtree Creek, the regiment was highly praised by Gen. Hooker.
It shared in the movements of the 20th corps during the siege of Atlanta and encamped in that city Sept. 2. It remained on garrison at Atlanta, occasionally engaging in foraging expeditions, until Jan. 2, 1865, when it joined the general movement north to Richmond, participating in the battles of Averasboro and Bentonville.
It was in the grand review at Washington and was mustered out June 12, 1865. The original strength of the regiment was 1,009. Gain by recruits 143; substitutes 130; draft, 223. Loss by death, 226; desertion, 46; transfer, 31; discharge, 196; mustered out, 1,006.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 4, p. 58
Report of Col. William L. Utley, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND Regt. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., ---- --, 1863.
COL.: In accordance with orders, I herewith furnish you a full statement of what transpired with the Twenty-second Regt. of Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, which I had the honor to command at the battle of Thompson's Station, Tenn., March 5, 1863. I shall make no mention of what transpired on the 4th, as the Twenty-second took no part in that affair, except to take a position in the line of battle. When we resumed our line of march on the morning of the 5th, the cavalry was ordered out in front as skirmishers. The Twenty-second took the madvance of the infantry. Skirmishing soon commenced after we took up our line of march, though nothing of importance occurred until we arrived within about three-quarters of a mile from Thompson's Station. Here the booming of cannon and the howling of a shell that passed within a very few feet of our left (passing along the whole length of the regiment, buried itself in the ground without bursting) admonished us that there was work ahead. I then ordered the brigade to halt, file off to the left, and lie down (or those of the brigade that were in danger), to await your orders, you being at that time some distance in advance; also to avoid another visitor from the rebel battery, which we had reason to believe would soon follow the first; but, luckily for us, in our position at that time, no shots were fired until we took our position in line of battle, about one-half mile in advance of where the brigade was then halted. The battery was soon ordered forward into position. A portion (three pieces) was placed upon a hill on the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was ordered forward to support that portion of the battery on the left of the pike. The Nineteenth Michigan was also ordered to the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin took a position in front and a little to the left of the battery, under cover of a small hill, covered with cedar bushes; the Nineteenth Michigan on the left of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. A squad of cavalry was posted to the left and in rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan. By the time we had fairly got into position, our battery opened upon the enemy. The contest was kept up for some time without any particular result on either side. We had been in our position something like half an hour, when the roll of musketry and the infernal screeching of the rebels admonished us that our comrades of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry, which had been posted on the right of the pike (to support the section of battery upon that side), were desperately engaged with the enemy. About this time we discovered on a hill to our left in suspense, for they soon opened upon us; the first shell bursting directly over the heads of the Nineteenth Michigan; the next, a little short, sent its fragments hissing around our heads in every direction. The colonel of the chance of retaliating, fell back, and took a position directly in the rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. The cavalry (heretofore mentioned) posted in the rear, broke and left the field on the very first discharge of the battery on our left. I saw nothing more of them.
Our battery turned one of its guns upon the rebel battery on the hill to our left, and fired a few shots, and then broke from the hill and left; that was the last I saw of them during the engagement. I cannot say at this time whether the Nineteenth Michigan had moved to the right of the battery before it left or not; they took that position about that time. A short time after that, I saw on the pike, homeward bound, what I supposed to be that section of the battery that was posted on the eight of the pike. That was the last I saw of the battery that day. About that time it was reported to me that the enemy was approaching my line in great numbers, just over the cedar bluff in front of us. I was aware at the time that the most favorable place for us to engage the enemy was from the top of the cedar hill in front, but I also saw that the battery on our left would be able to rake us from end to end. I therefore determined to fall back upon the hill in our rear, and take the position recently occupied by the battery. When I saw the battery leave, I supposed it was by your order, and that we were to have a regular Bull Run affair, and had been waiting to see the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana break and follow the battery, but I soon saw that they were going to break. I then ordered the lieutenant-colonel (Bloodgood), who was then on the extreme right, to lead the regiment by the right flank to the brow of the hill before mentioned. We had not long been in position when the enemy appeared on Cedar Hill. I gave Private Moley, of Company B, permission to open the fifth, who very coolly delivered his fire. We received a terrific volley in return. The action became general. The position of the hill upon which the opposing forces were engaged did not exactly lie parallel; consequently, as we were fighting faced by the rear rank, the left wing was much more exposed than the right. The fire upon the whole line was terrific, and although it was the first time the regiment was under fire, they stood the shock and behaved exceedingly well, never once breaking the line until the enemy in front were entirely silenced, and not then until ordered to do so by the lieutenant-colonel. The enemy outnumbered us four to one, I should think from the appearance. I cannot tell correctly how long we were engaged on the hill, but I think something like an hour. The casualties on the hill were not as great as might have been expected under the circumstances. We were exposed to an enfilading fire from the batteries. The hills upon which we were engaged were not more than 70 yards apart. I kept the men down as much as possible. The hill upon which the enemy was posted was much the highest; consequently they overshot us as a general thing. But as it was, there were disasters enough-as will be sent by the list of killed and wounded-to carry mourning and sorrow to a great many houses in our State. After our capture, the enemy gave us credit of doing them an immense amount of damage on the cedar hill. During the engagement I witnessed numerous acts of bravery and heroism that are worthy of all honor, and which entitle those brave boys to the right of having their names inscribed on the ''roll of honor.''
While speaking of those who behaved gallantly, it becomes my painful duty to animadvert upon the conduct of some of my subordinate officers, who, upon the very first fire of the enemy, retreated to a safe position, and remained there during the entire engagement on the hill, never once offering to assist in rallying the stragglers or seeing to the wounded. During the engagement the lieutenant-colonel, from his safe retreat, annoyed me by sending word to me to retreat. On one occasion my adjutant, who brought the word, and being told that I could not retreat, behaved badly after sending word to the lieutenant-colonel that I would not retreat; that our business was to hold the hill at all hazards; and after we had entirely silenced the enemy in front, and while in the act of complimenting the men for their good conduct, I cast my eye to the right wing, and saw several companies in full retreat headed by the lieutenant-colonel. I immediately gave the order to halt, which did not seem to be heard. As I had no one to send, I immediately started to head them off, which for a time made things very much worse. When the men saw me run, they all broke from the hill and ran after me, thus leaving the hill entirely defenseless. I overtook them at the railroad, near the pike, and commanded them to halt and form. The order was instantly obeyed. There was not the slightest appearance of panic. I gave the order to fix bayonets, intending to charge back and retake the hill. At this time I noticed some of the companies on the right, as we were then faced, were too much huddled. I stepped to the right to oblique them in two ranks, as I wished to show as much front as possible, owing to the superior numbers of the enemy. While thus engaged, I cast my eye to the left, and saw a portion of my regiment again in full retreat, double-quick, with Lieut.-Col. Bloodgood at the head. I could not overtake him this time. My situation was humiliating in the extreme; it left me too weak to retake the hill, or even hold the position I then occupied, behind the railroad, against the great mass of rebels that was pressing me on the right and left. Therefore, I was obliged to fall back on the hill, in the rear of Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana.
About the time my regiment was broken the last time, the Nineteenth Michigan moved up along the railroad to the front, and engaged the enemy, which were coming down from that direction in great numbers.
It gives me pleasure to say in this connection that the officers and men of the Nineteenth Michigan behaved gallantly. I saw them repulse several charges, where the enemy outnumbered them three to one. All this time the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana had been engaged in an almost hand-to-hand fight with a greatly superior force. Although I was not able to accomplish much with the force I had left, we held in check the large force that had flanked our brigade. After making several stand, we were compelled to fall back. The men that remained with me behaved gloriously, never failing to form and face the enemy when called upon, but when at last it became apparent to all that we could not hold out much longer, and the firing had ceased in our front, we fell back over the hills. We got separated in a patch of canebrake and brusk; some few escaped; the remainder of us, finding ourselves surrounded, surrendered.
It may not be proper for me to speak of matters which, in my opinion, contributed largely toward the disaster of the day; nevertheless, I will say that the enemy outnumbered us six to one. It is very evident that with a very little help we might have escaped, for the enemy acknowledged to us, after our capture, that at one time they were very much discouraged. I am fully convinced, from all I saw on the field and what I afterward learned from the enemy, that if it had not been for the untimely retreat of the battery and cavalry we might have been drawn off with safety and small loss. I have been pained on reading articles from correspondents and editors, and on hearing remarks from officers professing to know all about war, to the effect that we might and ought to have retreated. Now, I pretend to say that there never was a time, after the battery and cavalry had deserted us, that we could have broken from the hills without being cut to pieces, neither could those that escaped have done so if it had not been for the obstinate resistance of those they deserted at the very commencement of the fight. The idea of from 1,200 to 1,500 infantry, in an open country, retreating before nearly 17,000 mounted infantry and cavalry, with two batteries of artillery, is simply ridiculous.
After our surrender we were taken to the rebel headquarters. In going there we were taken directly across the ground occupied by the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana during the struggle. It was a sad and revolting sight to witness the barbarity of the inhuman demons stripping our noble dead. On coming out in view of the rebel force, we
were astonished at the vast numbers against which they had been contending so long. They would not believe the fact until they had satisfied themselves by actual count, and they were quite angry when told we had no general officer with us; they thought the thing impossible. We afterward learned that we were engaged against Van Dorn, with his whole force added to that of Forrest, amounting to nearly 17,000, commanded by six generals, and two batteries of artillery. After our battery left, we could not have had to exceed 1,600 men in the engagement. No wonder they were astonished at the stubborn resistance of the little handful of men they had captured, and they got nearly all that were engaged in the fight. Soon after we were drawn up in line, preparatory to starting for the land of Dixie, a long train of wagons passed, loaded with the dead and wounded rebels, showing the handwork of the little band that had been struggling so long against such fearful odds. They acknowledge the loss of 49 commissioned officers, of which were 2 colonels, 1 lieutenant-colonel, and 1 adjutant-general.
In conclusion, I will add a few remarks respecting our treatment while we were prisoners: Until we reached Tullahoma our treatment was about what we might expect as prisoner of war in a heathen land, destitute of everything but treason. The march from Columbia to Tullahoma was one that will never be forgotten by those who performed it; marching all day in the rain and mud, fording creeks and rivers, standing out all night on the shortest kind of poor rations, if they got any, constituted our daily routine until we got thought to Tullahoma.
The prisoners were placed under charge of Lieut.-Col. Gordon, of Mississippi. It gives me pleasure to say of Col. Gordon that he treated the officers with extreme kindness, and did everything possible for the men. I believe he did everything in his power to furnish the men with suitable rations. They were not to be had, and he could not help it. The prisoners had got to be put through; there was no postponement on account of the weather.
But when we reached Tullahoma the scene changed. After marching all day in the rain, without rations, we reached there just at dark, and after having forded a river a little while before, the men were placed out upon a clay hill, where the mud was ankle-deep. The weather was extremely cold, with nothing to make a fire except green logs. A small ration of raw bacon and a little raw meal was all that was dealt out to them, which was of no use, as they had nothing in which to cook it. The officers were thrown into an old shell of a building, and the same rations dealt out for them.
In the morning, after spending the night in this dreadful situation, we were called out, officers and privates, and an order from Bragg read to us, commanding the officers to strip us of our overcoats and what few blankets we had. We were then buried to the cars, and placed in some of the artiest old box-cars I ever saw, without a sign of a seat; all this under the immediate direction of Bragg. Here, to the regret of us all, we had to part with Col. Gordon and his escort.
I will not attempt to describe our sufferings at Knoxville. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was left over night, for want of transportation. There I was again completed to stand out all night without an overcoat or blanket, and the weather was bitter cold. There was no [need] of either myself or men having to stand out of doors, only to please the malice of a sneaking set of traitors. I received the same kind of treatment at Bristol, Va. But as it has been wisely ordered that all things must have an end, so our trip through this worse than the land of Idumea was ended, after spending the last forty-eight hours within 15 miles of Richmond, in a severe snow-storm, in open cars, without rations, overcoats, or blankets. Some of the men perished on the way, and a great number soon after they got into prison.
It is not my intention to give an account of our trials and sufferings while in the celebrated Libby. I should not speak of it at all, only from the fact of its being so very different from the treatment the rebel prisoners receive in the North. We were huddled together in a very small place, with not half enough rations and that of the very foulest kind. We could not have lived, only for the little stuff we were permitted to buy at Confederate prices.
The rebel officers as a general thins were insolent and overbearing; very few, if any, exceptions to that rule. But here once more, after eight weeks' close confinement, time came to our relief, and I am once more among human beings.
My impression is, from all that I could see and learn from intercourse with the people, and from actual observation, that they were, at the time we were there, the worst whipped set of people on the face of God's earth. There was nothing left of them but their bombast, although they had a strong army at that time. I saw that it must soon fade away for want of materials to keep it up. I saw that the common people were sick of the rebellion, and would manifest it openly as soon as they dared to do so. In short, I saw that the marks of God's avenging hand were upon all their land, and the finger-marks of Uncle Sam were on all their throats. I, after all, look upon the afflictions I had to pass through as a gain, when I compare them with the benefit I have received by a knowledge of the situation of the South-the character of its inhabitants. I have learned what they say is true, respecting their being a different people. The difference is very marked. The Southern people are engaged, but very few of them can tell what it is about. There is nothing so hard do deal with as enraged ignorance; you cannot [deal] with it.
I think we have all come back impressed with the idea that there is a very great difference, and all in favor of the North.
God bless the North.
WM. L. UTLEY,
Col., Cmdg. Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Volunteers.
Col. JOHN COBURN,
Cmdg. First Brigade, Third Division.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSON'S STATION, TENN. PAGE 106-34
[Series I. Vol. 23. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 34.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., Atlanta, Ga., September 9, 1864.
LIEUT.: I herewith have the honor to submit military history of my command from May 2, 1864, to September 2, 1864:
May 1, the regiment reached Lookout Valley, having marched from Nashville, Tenn., a distance of 143 miles, in thirteen days. May 2, was occupied in reducing baggage, or stripping, for an active campaign. May 3, the regiment, containing 575 effective men, under command of Col. William L. Utley, marched around the base of Lookout Mountain, and passing over field of Mission Ridge, camped near it for the night. May 4, resumed march over Chickamauga battle-field and camped at base of Taylor's Ridge, when we joined the other brigades of our division. Lay in camp May 5, and sent back all surplus baggage and reduced transportation to one wagon and a pack-mule. May 6, broke camp at daybreak and marched to Leet's Tannery; formed line of battle and built breast-works. May 7, broke Camp, and, marching eleven miles, took up position fronting the enemy's stronghold, Buzzard Roost. We lay here until May 11, when we marched to the right and passed about two-thirds the distance through Snake Creek Pass, where we made camp and built road (wagon and infantry) until dark. May 12, we moved out of the pass, camping on left and near the mouth of the same. The fighting for possession of Resaca commenced On the 13th instant, and on this day and the 14th our division was not engaged. Early on the morning of 15th instant the corps moved to the left of Fourth Army Corps and formed line. The Third Division was selected to storm a battery covered by rifle-pits. The First Brigade was the attacking column and the Second Brigade the line of support, the Twentieth Connecticut and Twenty-second Wisconsin in right rear and Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana and Nineteenth Michigan in left rear. The column advanced, was checked, rallied, and advanced again to meet such a withering fire from the enemy's rifle-pits that it was impossible for the men to live in range of their muskets; but the enemy where driven from the earth-work that contained the four-gun battery, and after the fight, which was kept up with [varying] results until after dark, was over our men succeeded in bringing off the four guns in triumph, and all had been done that stubborn courage could accomplish. We lay on the field during the night. Our loss in this engagement was 11 enlisted men killed and 3 officers and 61 enlisted men wounded. During the night the enemy retreated. Morning of 16th instant we buried our dead and marched with brigade and division to which we were attached some sixteen miles, halting for night at 11 p. m. on bank of Oostenaula Creek. May 17, marched at 3 p. m.; camped in field at 12 p. m. May 18, marched at 4 a. m. In afternoon the regiment was detailed as guard for division ordnance train; went into camp with ordnance train at 11 p. m. May 19, fearing attack from rebel cavalry, the regiment inclosed the train in a breast-work at 2 p. m. we moved with train to a position near Cassville and camped. May 20, remained in same position. May 21, were relieved from train guard and rejoined brigade. May 22, remained in same position. May 23, marched ten miles, crossing Etowah River on pontoon bridge, and camping near bank of the same in line of battle. May 24, marched fifteen miles; camped near Burnt Hickory Gap, building breast-works. May 25, marched at 7.30 a. m., taking direct road to Dallas. The Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, engaged the enemy, and at 4 p. m. the regiment, together with the brigade, were formed and moved forward as support to Second Division; the regiment was not engaged, but lost 1 man killed and 10 men wounded, including l officer. We lay in line all night. May 26, moved to the right and relieved Thirty-third Indiana on first line of works; improved the same; skirmished heavily, losing 1 man killed and 8 men wounded, including 1 officer; relieved from duty on first line; moved short distance to right and camped. May 27, took position in works in our front. First Brigade, Third Division, moved one-quarter of a mile to front, and, together with detail from Second Brigade, built line of works; regiment lost 1 man wounded. May 28, did not change position; lost l man wounded. May 29, remained in same position. May 30, advanced to works built by First Brigade and relieved Nineteenth Michigan. May 31, remained in same position.
June 1, the regiment, with brigade and division, was relieved by Fourteenth Corps, and marched to the left six miles and camped on large hill. June 2, marched farther to the left and formed line as support to Twenty-third Army Corps; was not engaged; built temporary breast-works; camped for night. June 3, marched at 2 p.m.; went into camp at 5 p. m.; regiment was ordered to support battery; moved into line with battery and built one-fourth of a mile breast-works, taking till 3 a. m. June 4, moved ten rods to front, in line with brigade; built works; camped for night. June 5, no move was made. June 6, marched five miles, formed line of battle, and built breast-works near Mount Olivet Church. The regiment lay in this position doing some picket duty until June 15, when we marched two miles to front. Brigade was formed as support to First Brigade, which charged the enemy, driving him into his works. At dark we relieved First Brigade on first line, and worked all night perfecting breast-works; lost 2 men wounded. June 16, still held same position. The enemy and a raking fire on our works; lost 3 men killed and 7 wounded. At night rebel batteries opened, doing no damage, and during noise made by their artillery they retreated. June 17, followed after the enemy and took position in open field facing their works, building breast-works and camping for the night. June 18, skirmishing in front; lost 1 man killed and 2 wounded.
June 19, enemy retreated in night; at 10 a. m. marched, came upon the enemy, and the division moved forward in three lines, Second Brigade in rear; heavy skirmishing but no engagement. At dark the First and Third Brigades were withdrawn, and Second Brigade built works on first line. June 20, moved thirty rods to front and built breast-works. June 21, remained in same position. June 22, regiment with brigade moved out of works and advanced in line, driving in rebel skirmishers and taking position, which we fortified. The enemy charged our position but was repulsed; our loss was 2 men killed and 10 wounded; were relieved by Fourth Army Corps, and moved three miles to right and camped for night. June 23, marched a short distance to right and advanced our line to connect with Twenty-third Army Corps on our right; built breast-works. We
lay in or near this position doing some picketing, and losing 7 men wounded, until July 3. Were mustered for pay June 30, July 3.
On the night of the 2d the enemy left their strong works in our front. At daylight our division took the main Marietta road, but were stopped by shells from a rebel battery. After going two miles brigade was ordered to reconnoiter ground between road and Geary's (Second) division on our right. Brigade advanced in line of battle, passed Second Division, threw out skirmishers, and the regiment was ordered to support skirmish line; advanced two and a half miles; drove enemy's outposts. Brigade took position and fortified it under fire from enemy's battery. At dark was relieved by Fourteenth Army Corps; went to right and rear and camped. July 4. we moved to the right, built breast-works, and camped. July 5, marched four miles to front through the works the rebels had left during the night and camped on hill in rear of line of battle. July 6, moved two miles to left and took position in second line of battle; made camp, where we remained until the 17th instant, drawing clothing and affording the men a much needed rest. On the 17th instant the regiment broke camp, and, marching to the left, crossed the river near the railroad bridge by means of pontoons, and moving to the left three miles went into camp in rear of Fourth Army Corps. At 10 a. m. July 18 the division moved to the left of the Fourth Corps, and forming - Third Brigade in line of battle Second Brigade close column of division, and First Brigade by flank--moved forward on Atlanta turnpike. After marching about two miles our line of advance converged into that of other troops who had gone forward. We resumed our march by the flank, and camped again in rear of the Fourth Corps. On July 19 no move was made, the First Division working all day to construct a bridge across a deep stream called Peach Tree Creek, the enemy's skirmishers covering the creek by their fire. Early on the 20th instant the Third Division moved out, crossing the creek on bridge above mentioned. We now lay on a flat, beyond which lay two high ridges, the first covered by timber and occupied by the enemy's skirmishers. The second ridge was bare, a rail fence running along the top Parallel to our lines. The Twenty-second Wisconsin Regiment, being at head of the brigade column, was ordered to deploy as skirmishers. This was done under fire, the line connecting with Fourth Corps on the left and with line of Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, on the right. Three Companies, A, C, and F, were held as grand reserve. At 11 a. m. orders came to drive the enemy from the first ridge, which was effected without loss, and at or near 12 m. we were ordered to cross the ravine between the two ridges, take and hold the second ridge under cover of a fire from battery on left of Second Division. We moved forward at double-quick, delivering our fire as we ran. The rebel pickets scattered at our approach and left us in possession of this ridge, which was an important position. The regiment immediately threw up some light skirmish pits, the reserve of three companies intrenching as well as possible in ravine at foot of ridge. Our brigade in two lines had been formed at edge of woods covering the first ridge. Immediately in front of the second ridge was an open field of nearly half a mile in width; then came timber, and in this lay the enemy; mounted officers and bodies of troops could be seen front our skirmish line moving about and apparently massing preparatory to a charge. At fifteen minutes before 3 p. m. the first rebel line of battle emerged from the woods and came across the open field. This line was followed by two others, and with the true rebel yell they came upon us. Messengers were dispatched to the brigade commander for support, and the whole brigade was at once ordered forward. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, which had been delivering a rapid fire from the time the enemy left the woods, still held their ground until the line was broken on their right and left, and grape and canister fired at the enemy fell among our men, but the enemy's line was now within thirty feet of our rifle-pits, and to stay longer was certain capture. The order was given to ''rally on the reserve,'' which was done just as the brigade came cheering over the first ridge and down into the ravine. Now the enemy came pouring over the ridge we had just abandoned, and rushing down upon our lines in perfect crowds only to meet and fall before our fire. The fight raged in this way for nearly an hour, the enemy coming to the charge time after time and was always repulsed. Now a large body of the enemy was thrown upon the left of our division, but by a timely movement of the Third Brigade this was checked, and beaten at every point the enemy commenced falling back. Our men now rushed forward with cheers and volleys, and the victory was complete; the enemy fled in great confusion, our men following, taking prisoners, stand of colors, &c. In front of the Second Brigade the rebel dead and wounded strewed the ground, numbering upward of 200. The regiment went into this engagement with 18 officers and 315 men, and lost 7 men killed, 1 officer and 36 men wounded. Works were built and everything prepared to resist another attack. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, having been on duty all day, was in second line. July 21, no movement; lost 1 man wounded on skirmish line. During the night the enemy fell back to a strong position in the outskirts of the city of Atlanta. July 22, followed up, taking position within three-quarters of a mile of enemy's works and building shell-proof fortifications. The enemy's batteries were numerous in our front, and during the 23d, 24th, 25th, and 26th instant shells flew at all hours of the day, making it necessary that the men remain in their works. On the 26th instant the line was advanced some thirty rods and new works were built, occupying all day. At 10 p. m. the division was relieved by troops of Second Division and went into reserve in second line of works. The regiment lost this day 2 men wounded. July 27, nothing worthy of note occurred. July 28, moved to the right with division to re-enforce Gen. Howard's command, but after going three miles returned to camp, there being no necessity for our help. July 29, marched to the extreme right of the army and were thrown back to protect the flank; building breast-works. July 30, changed position about half a mile and fortified; no enemy in our immediate front. Remained here until August 2, when the division marched back to railroad, and, relieving a division of the Fourteenth Corps, occupied line of works. August 4, constructed line of works twenty rods in advance of present line by details from regiment. August 5, advanced into new line, completing same; made demonstration on picket-line that developed another rebel battery in our front. Angust 10, commenced, by detail, constructing line of works thirty rods in advance of present line. At dark on the 12th instant advanced into new line and lay on arms all night to support skirmishers, who were expected to advance. From this date nothing of importance occurred until the 25th instant; there was the usual amount of picket and artillery firing, but nothing worthy of note. At 8 p. m. August 25 the entire corps abandoned their line and moved back to the Chattahoochee River. Our brigade and the Third Brigade covered Turner's Ferry, where there was a pontoon bridge; breastworks and obstructions were built. On the 27th instant the enemy with artillery drove in the skirmishers, felt of our position, and retired. Remained here, sending out scouting parties daily, who always found the enemy at a distance, until September 2 a reconnaissance of 900 men from both brigades, under command of Col. John Coburn, commanding Second Brigade, moved out on the Atlanta road. On reaching the city limits the mayor of the city made a formal surrender of the city to Col. Coburn, and the force advanced, driving the enemy's cavalry out without loss. In the afternoon of same day a re-enforcement of 500 men, under Lieut.Col. Bloodgood, came from ferry to re-enforce Col. Coburn, and on the following day the balance of the regiment, with baggage, marched to city and the whole regiment took position in the defenses of the city, to the right of Decatur railroad. With the exception of a few shifts to the right and left, no move took place up to September 2. At this time the casualties in the regiment during the campaign are 27 enlisted men killed and 6 officers and 148 enlisted men wounded. The regiment numbers 16 officers and 261 enlisted men for duty.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. Regt.
Lieut. F. C. CRAWFORD,
Acting Assistant Adjutant Gen., Second Brigade.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. L.] REPORTS, ETC.--ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. PAGE 425-73
[Series I. Vol. 38. Part II, Reports. Serial No. 73.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND WISCONSIN INFANTRY VOLS., Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
CAPT.: I have the honor to submit the following military history of my command from the occupation of the city of Atlanta, Ga., to the present date:
September 2, the regiment took an active part in the occupation of Atlanta, by the Second Brigade, under command of Col. John Coburn, Thirty-third Indiana, and taking position in the earth-works of the enemy, went into camp. Nothing of note took place until October 16, when the regiment, with brigade (commanded by myself), accompanied a large foraging expedition, being absent four days, penetrating some thirty miles into the enemy's country, and loading some 800 wagons with corn and forage. A similar expedition started October 26, not going so far, however, but meeting with the same success, and without finding any considerable force of the rebels. During this time the regiment was commanded by Capt. A. G. Kellam, and I was in command of the brigade. About November 1 large preparations commenced for the campaign just ended. A full supply of clothing and equipments was issued to the men, and baggage of all kinds was reduced to its minimum. I resumed command of the regiment, having been relieved in command of brigade by Lieut.-Col. Crane, Eighty-fifth Indiana Volunteers. November 5, the entire corps broke camp, and moving three miles out of city on McDonough road, camped for night. On the morning of November 6 the pickets of the Second Brigade were attacked by a small force of the enemy's cavalry, who soon retired. At 3 p.m. orders came to return to the city, which was done, the troops occupying the quarters left by them the day before. During these two days the regiment received eight months' pay to August 31, 1864. November 8, election was held; the regiment polled 382 votes, 372 of which were for Lincoln.
Remained in camp, doing light picket duty until the orders came for the beginning of the campaign, whose objective point was a mystery.*
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LI.] NORTH GEORGIA AND NORTH ALABAMA. PAGE 691-77
[Series I. Vol. 39. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 77.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood,
Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND WISCONSIN INFANTRY VOLS., Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
CAPT.:*
Early on the morning of November 15 the entire corps took the Decatur dirt road, and after getting beyond the fortifications stopped for dinner, being delayed by the trains of other divisions; crossed the Atlanta and Savannah railroad about half way between Atlanta and Decatur, and marched all night, only stopping about two hours on the morning of the 16th instant for breakfast. On this day the regiment was in the advance of brigade; marched all day, crossing for night a mile east of Yellow River at Rock Bridge. 17th instant, broke camp at 3.30 a. m., marching till dark, in an easterly direction, crossing Big Haynes Creek shortly after dinner. 18th instant, marched all day and night with train, reaching Social Circle just after sunrise. Passing through Rutledge, we tore up and burned about a mile of railroad, and camped within eight miles of Madison. 19th instant, broke camp, and after marching a short distance commenced tearing up railroad, which we destroyed clear to Madison, and, passing through this town, went into camp three miles beyond at an early hour. 20th instant, broke camp at 8 a. m., marched all day in a southeast direction, reached camp after a hard day's march about dark, stopping near Eatonton. 21st instant, moved out through rain and mud, marching through Eatonton; traveled ten miles; reached camp at 2.30 p. m. 22d instant, cold and windy; lay in camp until nearly night, when we moved out, crossing Little River (a branch of the Oconee), on pontoons, guarding train. 23d instant, reached Milledgeville, the State capital, just at daybreak; remained here in camp during the day; weather still quite cold. 24th instant, broke camp at 8 a. m., but did not get fairly started until 3 p. m.; crossed the Oconee River on bridge. 25th instant, marched six miles and camped on west side of Buffalo Creek. 26th instant, breaking camp at 8 a. m., reached Sandersville at an early hour, and camped for night. 27th instant, marched at 7.30 a. m., reaching Davisborough, on the railroad, shortly after dark. 28th instant, marched at 6.30, our brigade in advance of the corps. On reaching the Ogeechee, some twelve miles from Davisborough, found the bridges burned by the rebels, and went into camp for night; engineers and pontoniers were at once put to work, and 29th instant, the troops and trains commenced crossing. The rear of the train did not pass until nearly dark. Just at dark our brigade crossed, camping a short distance beyond the stream at 10 p. m. November 30, remained in camp all day, waiting for trains to pass, and starting at 9 in the evening, passing through Louisville, going very slowly, and camped at nearly morning, having accomplished but five miles.
December 1, remained in camp, waiting for passage of trains, until 3 p. m., and got over five miles of miserable country at midnight. December 2, broke camp at daylight; marched fifteen miles, camping at dark in corn-field west of Jones Creek. December 3, leaving camp at an early hour, and passing near Millen and the prison pen, where our prisoners were confined, keeping north of the Savannah railroad until dark when we crossed it, and, crossing some half dozen swamps, went into camp at midnight. December 4, after a rainy night broke encampment at 7.30 a. m. Our brigade marched as train guard; accomplished six miles over horrible roads. Cannonading can be heard in the direction of the coast. December 5, marched fifteen miles through a dead level country, heavily timbered with pine; swamps numerous. December 6, broke camp at 5 a. m., our brigade in advance of corps; camped after going but a few miles. December 7, leaving camp at 8 a. m., marched ten miles, camping near Springfield, an unimportant town. December 8, our division in the rear lay in camp until, crossed a small creek, and remaining there until sundown, reached camp at 11 p. m. December 9, broke camp at daylight; marched fourteen miles; are getting within striking distance of Savannah. December 10, marching at daylight on an excellent road, we crossed the Charleston and Savannah road ten miles from the latter place. About four miles out our advance struck the enemy's outposts, and skirmishing continued throughout the day. Troops went into position, and our brigade, being in reserve, went into camp in good season. December 11, on the morning of this day, pursuant to orders from corps headquarters, the regiment moved back on the main road, and, accompanied by Battery I, First New York Artillery, which it was to support, took a cross-road leading to the bank of the Savannah River at a point about six miles from the city in a direct line. The object of this movement was to plant the battery in a position commanding the main channel of the river and prevent the enemy's gun-boats that were known to be up the river from getting to the city. The battery went into position and the regiment also, one wing being placed on the right, the other on the left of the guns. A strong earth-work was constructed, and parties were at once sent out to secure all small boats and rice barges (a species of scow) that were in the river, it being rightly foreseen that they would be of use in future. Opposite to us lay an island, several miles in length and from one to two in width. The island (called Argyle) was one grand rice swamp, and was thickly traversed by ditches, dikes, and canals. A large rice mill, just opposite to our position and on the farther or eastern side of the island, was guarded by Company F, Capt. R. T. Pugh. At dark the Third Regt. Wisconsin Infantry, Col. Hawley, belonging to First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, commenced crossing over to the island, using all the boats collected by the regiment during the day. The Third Wisconsin relieved the guard over rice mills, and they returned to the regiment during the night.
December 12, the forenoon was occupied in strengthening works and collecting boats; guards were also sent to rice mills one and two miles above us on the river-bank. At about 3 p. m. a smoke was discovered some miles up the river, but rapidly nearing. At last they were made out to be three boats, two side-wheel wooden boats and one having the long, low hull and rakish build of a modern gun-boat. As they came within range our battery opened fire and was quickly responded to by thegun-boat, which was behind, and soon after by the second boat in theline. The battery worked rapidly, and by the time the boats had arrived within half a mile two of them had been struck. As they came to a turn in the channel that gave us a raking fire at them there appeared to be some hesitation, which ended in the two rear boats heading up stream, and, putting on full steam, rapidly leaving the boat on the lead to shift for herself, but she was both disabled and aground. This being observed word was at once sent to Col. Hawley, proposing that he move his men up from the mill on the island and take possession of the boat, as she had gone ashore on Argyle Island, and as there were no boats that were available for that purpose at the regiment. This was done. The boat, Resolute, C. S. Navy, ran up the white flag and was boarded by our men. Her crew consisted of 7 officers and 22 men; she had no armament. The other two boats carried each several guns. A crew was selected from the regiment, who brought her off the bar and moored her just below the battery. Repairs were at once commenced. It was found that two shots had passed with her, and that she was also seriously damaged by colliding with the other boats as they turned round. No further attempt was made by the boats that escaped to get to the city. From this time nothing of importance occurred for some days. A party of the regiment, under the charge of myself, explored Argyle Island to the head, finding canals extending from one channel into the other. December below the island were burned before the occupation. The enemy still hover about the South Carolina shore, and there is some skirmishing across the channel that separates Argyle Island from the shore. December 22, 23, and 24, remained in camp, sending guard of 100 men to first rice mill on river. December 25, broke camp at 10 a. m. and joined brigade in outskirts of the city.
During the past campaign there have been no casualties in this regiment. It numbers 315 men present. There is but little sickness and no deaths.
Appended is a table of distances from point to point, gathered from the most reliable sources within reach, and extending from Atlanta to Savannah:
Hoping the above will meet your approval,
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records
PAGE 344-92 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI.
[Series I. Vol. 44. Serial No. 92.]
Report of Capt. Darwin R. May, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 2-March 24.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCONSIN INFTY. VOLS., Goldsborough, N. C., March 25, 1865.
CAPT.: Below please find report of the part taken by the Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the campaign through the Carolinas:
The regiment crossed the Savannah River with the brigade on the 2d day of January, 1865, and went into camp on the South Carolina shore. Remained in camp until the morning of the 4th, when it marched to Hardee's plantation, where it camped with the division and remained until the morning of the 17th of January. Marched on the morning of the 17th, passing through Hardeeville and campaign with the brigade at Purysburg, where it remained until the morning of the 29th of January. Marched from Purysburg on the 29th and went into camp at Robertsville on the 30th, where it remained until the morning of the 2d of February.
Marched from Robertsville on the 2d of February, passed through Lawtonville on the 3d, crossed the Combahee River, near Barnwell Church on the 6th, and struck the Charleston and Augusta Railroad near Lowry's Turnout on the 7th of February. The 8th, 9th, and 10th were spent on the railroad, passing through Graham's Blackville, and Williston, and destroying railroad track, crossed the South Branch of the Edisto River on the 12th and the North Branch of the Edisto on the 13th, arriving in front of Columbia on the 16th of February. Crossed the Saluda River, near Mount Zion, on the 18th and Broad River on the 20th. Passed through Winnsborough on the 21st and crossed the Catawba River, near Rocky Mount, on the 23d of February. On the 24th of February Lieut. Knowles, of Company C, in command of regimental foragers, was captured, together with two enlisted men of the regiment. Reached Hanging Rock on the 26th, where it remained in camp one day.
Crossed Lynch's Creek on the 1st of March and camped in Chesterfield on the 3d. March 4, crossed the State line and camped near Sneedsborough, N. C., where it remained until the 6th, when it marched to Cheraw S. C. Crossed the Great Pedee at Cheraw on the 7th of March. On the 8th crossed the Wilmington and Rockingham Railroad, and on the 11th reached Fayetteville. Remained in camp on the 12th. On the 13th marched in review through Fayetteville, crossed the Cape Fear River, and went into camp about two miles from the river. Marched from Fayetteville on the 15th, taking the Raleigh road. Participated in the engagement of the 16th of March, having four men wounded. Camped at Averasborough on the 17th, and marched on the 18th, taking the Goldsborough road. During the engagement of the 19th, 20th, 21st were in position on the left of the First Division, Twentieth Corps, but at no time engaged with the enemy. Crossed the Neuse River on the 23d, and went into camp at Goldsborough on the 24th of March.
During the campaign the regiment has marched about 480 miles; has destroyed one mile of railroad track, and has built about two miles and a half of corduroy road. It is estimated that the regiment has foraged from the country about 15,000 pounds of meat and 17,000 pounds of breadstuffs, with about 50 horses and mules.
The regiment foragers under Lieut. Knowles, and, after his capture, under Lieut. Morse, of Company K, have done good service, and have had frequent skirmishes with the enemy, and captured a number of prisoners. On the 11th of March Lieut. Morse, with his command, entered the city of Fayetteville and with other foragers drove the enemy from the place sometime before the advance of our main column reached the city.
The casualties during the campaign have been 1 commissioned officer and 2 enlisted men captured, 4 enlisted men wounded, and 2 enlisted men missing, as follows.*
I am, captain, very respectfully, &c.,
D. R. MAY,
Capt. Cmdg. Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Vol. Infty.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM, A. A. A. G., 2d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
CHAP. LIX.] THE CAMPAIGN OF THE CAROLINAS. PAGE 819-98
[Series I. Vol. 47. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 98.]
WISCONSIN
(3-YEARS)
Twenty-second Infantry. -- Cols., William L. Utley, Edward Bloodgood; Lieut.-Col., Edward Bloodgood; Majs., Edward D. Murray Charles W. Smith.
This regiment was organized at Camp Utley, Racine and was mustered in Sept. 2, 1862. It left the state Sept. 16 for Cincinnati to aid in defending the city against a threatened attack.
On the 31st it was assigned to the 1st brigade, 1st division, Army of Kentucky, and for a time performed guard duty at Nicholasville. It was then sent to Danville, where it was occupied in scouring the country in pursuit of the enemy until Jan. 26, 1863, when it started for Franklin, Tenn.
On March 4 part of the regiment under Col. Utley joined a large foraging expedition to Spring Hill and during the march participated in two lively skirmishes. On March 25 about 300 men of different regiments under Lieut.-Col. Bloodgood, while guarding the railroad at Brentwood, were surprised, captured and sent to Richmond but were soon exchanged.
The regiment then moved to Nashville and in April to Lookout Valley, near Chattanooga. It left Lookout Valley on May 3, 1864, to take part in Sherman's Atlanta campaign.
It had a conspicuous part in the battle of Resaca, this being the regiment's first real battle. Its loss was 11 killed and 64 wounded. It participated in the actions about Dallas and was engaged in three smart skirmishes during the siege of Kennesaw Mountain. For its unflinching bravery in the battle of Peachtree Creek, the regiment was highly praised by Gen. Hooker.
It shared in the movements of the 20th corps during the siege of Atlanta and encamped in that city Sept. 2. It remained on garrison at Atlanta, occasionally engaging in foraging expeditions, until Jan. 2, 1865, when it joined the general movement north to Richmond, participating in the battles of Averasboro and Bentonville.
It was in the grand review at Washington and was mustered out June 12, 1865. The original strength of the regiment was 1,009. Gain by recruits 143; substitutes 130; draft, 223. Loss by death, 226; desertion, 46; transfer, 31; discharge, 196; mustered out, 1,006.
Source: The Union Army, vol. 4, p. 58
Report of Col. William L. Utley, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND Regt. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., ---- --, 1863.
COL.: In accordance with orders, I herewith furnish you a full statement of what transpired with the Twenty-second Regt. of Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, which I had the honor to command at the battle of Thompson's Station, Tenn., March 5, 1863. I shall make no mention of what transpired on the 4th, as the Twenty-second took no part in that affair, except to take a position in the line of battle. When we resumed our line of march on the morning of the 5th, the cavalry was ordered out in front as skirmishers. The Twenty-second took the madvance of the infantry. Skirmishing soon commenced after we took up our line of march, though nothing of importance occurred until we arrived within about three-quarters of a mile from Thompson's Station. Here the booming of cannon and the howling of a shell that passed within a very few feet of our left (passing along the whole length of the regiment, buried itself in the ground without bursting) admonished us that there was work ahead. I then ordered the brigade to halt, file off to the left, and lie down (or those of the brigade that were in danger), to await your orders, you being at that time some distance in advance; also to avoid another visitor from the rebel battery, which we had reason to believe would soon follow the first; but, luckily for us, in our position at that time, no shots were fired until we took our position in line of battle, about one-half mile in advance of where the brigade was then halted. The battery was soon ordered forward into position. A portion (three pieces) was placed upon a hill on the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was ordered forward to support that portion of the battery on the left of the pike. The Nineteenth Michigan was also ordered to the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin took a position in front and a little to the left of the battery, under cover of a small hill, covered with cedar bushes; the Nineteenth Michigan on the left of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. A squad of cavalry was posted to the left and in rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan. By the time we had fairly got into position, our battery opened upon the enemy. The contest was kept up for some time without any particular result on either side. We had been in our position something like half an hour, when the roll of musketry and the infernal screeching of the rebels admonished us that our comrades of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry, which had been posted on the right of the pike (to support the section of battery upon that side), were desperately engaged with the enemy. About this time we discovered on a hill to our left in suspense, for they soon opened upon us; the first shell bursting directly over the heads of the Nineteenth Michigan; the next, a little short, sent its fragments hissing around our heads in every direction. The colonel of the chance of retaliating, fell back, and took a position directly in the rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. The cavalry (heretofore mentioned) posted in the rear, broke and left the field on the very first discharge of the battery on our left. I saw nothing more of them.
Our battery turned one of its guns upon the rebel battery on the hill to our left, and fired a few shots, and then broke from the hill and left; that was the last I saw of them during the engagement. I cannot say at this time whether the Nineteenth Michigan had moved to the right of the battery before it left or not; they took that position about that time. A short time after that, I saw on the pike, homeward bound, what I supposed to be that section of the battery that was posted on the eight of the pike. That was the last I saw of the battery that day. About that time it was reported to me that the enemy was approaching my line in great numbers, just over the cedar bluff in front of us. I was aware at the time that the most favorable place for us to engage the enemy was from the top of the cedar hill in front, but I also saw that the battery on our left would be able to rake us from end to end. I therefore determined to fall back upon the hill in our rear, and take the position recently occupied by the battery. When I saw the battery leave, I supposed it was by your order, and that we were to have a regular Bull Run affair, and had been waiting to see the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana break and follow the battery, but I soon saw that they were going to break. I then ordered the lieutenant-colonel (Bloodgood), who was then on the extreme right, to lead the regiment by the right flank to the brow of the hill before mentioned. We had not long been in position when the enemy appeared on Cedar Hill. I gave Private Moley, of Company B, permission to open the fifth, who very coolly delivered his fire. We received a terrific volley in return. The action became general. The position of the hill upon which the opposing forces were engaged did not exactly lie parallel; consequently, as we were fighting faced by the rear rank, the left wing was much more exposed than the right. The fire upon the whole line was terrific, and although it was the first time the regiment was under fire, they stood the shock and behaved exceedingly well, never once breaking the line until the enemy in front were entirely silenced, and not then until ordered to do so by the lieutenant-colonel. The enemy outnumbered us four to one, I should think from the appearance. I cannot tell correctly how long we were engaged on the hill, but I think something like an hour. The casualties on the hill were not as great as might have been expected under the circumstances. We were exposed to an enfilading fire from the batteries. The hills upon which we were engaged were not more than 70 yards apart. I kept the men down as much as possible. The hill upon which the enemy was posted was much the highest; consequently they overshot us as a general thing. But as it was, there were disasters enough-as will be sent by the list of killed and wounded-to carry mourning and sorrow to a great many houses in our State. After our capture, the enemy gave us credit of doing them an immense amount of damage on the cedar hill. During the engagement I witnessed numerous acts of bravery and heroism that are worthy of all honor, and which entitle those brave boys to the right of having their names inscribed on the ''roll of honor.''
While speaking of those who behaved gallantly, it becomes my painful duty to animadvert upon the conduct of some of my subordinate officers, who, upon the very first fire of the enemy, retreated to a safe position, and remained there during the entire engagement on the hill, never once offering to assist in rallying the stragglers or seeing to the wounded. During the engagement the lieutenant-colonel, from his safe retreat, annoyed me by sending word to me to retreat. On one occasion my adjutant, who brought the word, and being told that I could not retreat, behaved badly after sending word to the lieutenant-colonel that I would not retreat; that our business was to hold the hill at all hazards; and after we had entirely silenced the enemy in front, and while in the act of complimenting the men for their good conduct, I cast my eye to the right wing, and saw several companies in full retreat headed by the lieutenant-colonel. I immediately gave the order to halt, which did not seem to be heard. As I had no one to send, I immediately started to head them off, which for a time made things very much worse. When the men saw me run, they all broke from the hill and ran after me, thus leaving the hill entirely defenseless. I overtook them at the railroad, near the pike, and commanded them to halt and form. The order was instantly obeyed. There was not the slightest appearance of panic. I gave the order to fix bayonets, intending to charge back and retake the hill. At this time I noticed some of the companies on the right, as we were then faced, were too much huddled. I stepped to the right to oblique them in two ranks, as I wished to show as much front as possible, owing to the superior numbers of the enemy. While thus engaged, I cast my eye to the left, and saw a portion of my regiment again in full retreat, double-quick, with Lieut.-Col. Bloodgood at the head. I could not overtake him this time. My situation was humiliating in the extreme; it left me too weak to retake the hill, or even hold the position I then occupied, behind the railroad, against the great mass of rebels that was pressing me on the right and left. Therefore, I was obliged to fall back on the hill, in the rear of Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana.
About the time my regiment was broken the last time, the Nineteenth Michigan moved up along the railroad to the front, and engaged the enemy, which were coming down from that direction in great numbers.
It gives me pleasure to say in this connection that the officers and men of the Nineteenth Michigan behaved gallantly. I saw them repulse several charges, where the enemy outnumbered them three to one. All this time the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana had been engaged in an almost hand-to-hand fight with a greatly superior force. Although I was not able to accomplish much with the force I had left, we held in check the large force that had flanked our brigade. After making several stand, we were compelled to fall back. The men that remained with me behaved gloriously, never failing to form and face the enemy when called upon, but when at last it became apparent to all that we could not hold out much longer, and the firing had ceased in our front, we fell back over the hills. We got separated in a patch of canebrake and brusk; some few escaped; the remainder of us, finding ourselves surrounded, surrendered.
It may not be proper for me to speak of matters which, in my opinion, contributed largely toward the disaster of the day; nevertheless, I will say that the enemy outnumbered us six to one. It is very evident that with a very little help we might have escaped, for the enemy acknowledged to us, after our capture, that at one time they were very much discouraged. I am fully convinced, from all I saw on the field and what I afterward learned from the enemy, that if it had not been for the untimely retreat of the battery and cavalry we might have been drawn off with safety and small loss. I have been pained on reading articles from correspondents and editors, and on hearing remarks from officers professing to know all about war, to the effect that we might and ought to have retreated. Now, I pretend to say that there never was a time, after the battery and cavalry had deserted us, that we could have broken from the hills without being cut to pieces, neither could those that escaped have done so if it had not been for the obstinate resistance of those they deserted at the very commencement of the fight. The idea of from 1,200 to 1,500 infantry, in an open country, retreating before nearly 17,000 mounted infantry and cavalry, with two batteries of artillery, is simply ridiculous.
After our surrender we were taken to the rebel headquarters. In going there we were taken directly across the ground occupied by the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana during the struggle. It was a sad and revolting sight to witness the barbarity of the inhuman demons stripping our noble dead. On coming out in view of the rebel force, we
were astonished at the vast numbers against which they had been contending so long. They would not believe the fact until they had satisfied themselves by actual count, and they were quite angry when told we had no general officer with us; they thought the thing impossible. We afterward learned that we were engaged against Van Dorn, with his whole force added to that of Forrest, amounting to nearly 17,000, commanded by six generals, and two batteries of artillery. After our battery left, we could not have had to exceed 1,600 men in the engagement. No wonder they were astonished at the stubborn resistance of the little handful of men they had captured, and they got nearly all that were engaged in the fight. Soon after we were drawn up in line, preparatory to starting for the land of Dixie, a long train of wagons passed, loaded with the dead and wounded rebels, showing the handwork of the little band that had been struggling so long against such fearful odds. They acknowledge the loss of 49 commissioned officers, of which were 2 colonels, 1 lieutenant-colonel, and 1 adjutant-general.
In conclusion, I will add a few remarks respecting our treatment while we were prisoners: Until we reached Tullahoma our treatment was about what we might expect as prisoner of war in a heathen land, destitute of everything but treason. The march from Columbia to Tullahoma was one that will never be forgotten by those who performed it; marching all day in the rain and mud, fording creeks and rivers, standing out all night on the shortest kind of poor rations, if they got any, constituted our daily routine until we got thought to Tullahoma.
The prisoners were placed under charge of Lieut.-Col. Gordon, of Mississippi. It gives me pleasure to say of Col. Gordon that he treated the officers with extreme kindness, and did everything possible for the men. I believe he did everything in his power to furnish the men with suitable rations. They were not to be had, and he could not help it. The prisoners had got to be put through; there was no postponement on account of the weather.
But when we reached Tullahoma the scene changed. After marching all day in the rain, without rations, we reached there just at dark, and after having forded a river a little while before, the men were placed out upon a clay hill, where the mud was ankle-deep. The weather was extremely cold, with nothing to make a fire except green logs. A small ration of raw bacon and a little raw meal was all that was dealt out to them, which was of no use, as they had nothing in which to cook it. The officers were thrown into an old shell of a building, and the same rations dealt out for them.
In the morning, after spending the night in this dreadful situation, we were called out, officers and privates, and an order from Bragg read to us, commanding the officers to strip us of our overcoats and what few blankets we had. We were then buried to the cars, and placed in some of the artiest old box-cars I ever saw, without a sign of a seat; all this under the immediate direction of Bragg. Here, to the regret of us all, we had to part with Col. Gordon and his escort.
I will not attempt to describe our sufferings at Knoxville. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was left over night, for want of transportation. There I was again completed to stand out all night without an overcoat or blanket, and the weather was bitter cold. There was no [need] of either myself or men having to stand out of doors, only to please the malice of a sneaking set of traitors. I received the same kind of treatment at Bristol, Va. But as it has been wisely ordered that all things must have an end, so our trip through this worse than the land of Idumea was ended, after spending the last forty-eight hours within 15 miles of Richmond, in a severe snow-storm, in open cars, without rations, overcoats, or blankets. Some of the men perished on the way, and a great number soon after they got into prison.
It is not my intention to give an account of our trials and sufferings while in the celebrated Libby. I should not speak of it at all, only from the fact of its being so very different from the treatment the rebel prisoners receive in the North. We were huddled together in a very small place, with not half enough rations and that of the very foulest kind. We could not have lived, only for the little stuff we were permitted to buy at Confederate prices.
The rebel officers as a general thins were insolent and overbearing; very few, if any, exceptions to that rule. But here once more, after eight weeks' close confinement, time came to our relief, and I am once more among human beings.
My impression is, from all that I could see and learn from intercourse with the people, and from actual observation, that they were, at the time we were there, the worst whipped set of people on the face of God's earth. There was nothing left of them but their bombast, although they had a strong army at that time. I saw that it must soon fade away for want of materials to keep it up. I saw that the common people were sick of the rebellion, and would manifest it openly as soon as they dared to do so. In short, I saw that the marks of God's avenging hand were upon all their land, and the finger-marks of Uncle Sam were on all their throats. I, after all, look upon the afflictions I had to pass through as a gain, when I compare them with the benefit I have received by a knowledge of the situation of the South-the character of its inhabitants. I have learned what they say is true, respecting their being a different people. The difference is very marked. The Southern people are engaged, but very few of them can tell what it is about. There is nothing so hard do deal with as enraged ignorance; you cannot [deal] with it.
I think we have all come back impressed with the idea that there is a very great difference, and all in favor of the North.
God bless the North.
WM. L. UTLEY,
Col., Cmdg. Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Volunteers.
Col. JOHN COBURN,
Cmdg. First Brigade, Third Division.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSON'S STATION, TENN. PAGE 106-34
[Series I. Vol. 23. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 34.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., Atlanta, Ga., September 9, 1864.
LIEUT.: I herewith have the honor to submit military history of my command from May 2, 1864, to September 2, 1864:
May 1, the regiment reached Lookout Valley, having marched from Nashville, Tenn., a distance of 143 miles, in thirteen days. May 2, was occupied in reducing baggage, or stripping, for an active campaign. May 3, the regiment, containing 575 effective men, under command of Col. William L. Utley, marched around the base of Lookout Mountain, and passing over field of Mission Ridge, camped near it for the night. May 4, resumed march over Chickamauga battle-field and camped at base of Taylor's Ridge, when we joined the other brigades of our division. Lay in camp May 5, and sent back all surplus baggage and reduced transportation to one wagon and a pack-mule. May 6, broke camp at daybreak and marched to Leet's Tannery; formed line of battle and built breast-works. May 7, broke Camp, and, marching eleven miles, took up position fronting the enemy's stronghold, Buzzard Roost. We lay here until May 11, when we marched to the right and passed about two-thirds the distance through Snake Creek Pass, where we made camp and built road (wagon and infantry) until dark. May 12, we moved out of the pass, camping on left and near the mouth of the same. The fighting for possession of Resaca commenced On the 13th instant, and on this day and the 14th our division was not engaged. Early on the morning of 15th instant the corps moved to the left of Fourth Army Corps and formed line. The Third Division was selected to storm a battery covered by rifle-pits. The First Brigade was the attacking column and the Second Brigade the line of support, the Twentieth Connecticut and Twenty-second Wisconsin in right rear and Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana and Nineteenth Michigan in left rear. The column advanced, was checked, rallied, and advanced again to meet such a withering fire from the enemy's rifle-pits that it was impossible for the men to live in range of their muskets; but the enemy where driven from the earth-work that contained the four-gun battery, and after the fight, which was kept up with [varying] results until after dark, was over our men succeeded in bringing off the four guns in triumph, and all had been done that stubborn courage could accomplish. We lay on the field during the night. Our loss in this engagement was 11 enlisted men killed and 3 officers and 61 enlisted men wounded. During the night the enemy retreated. Morning of 16th instant we buried our dead and marched with brigade and division to which we were attached some sixteen miles, halting for night at 11 p. m. on bank of Oostenaula Creek. May 17, marched at 3 p. m.; camped in field at 12 p. m. May 18, marched at 4 a. m. In afternoon the regiment was detailed as guard for division ordnance train; went into camp with ordnance train at 11 p. m. May 19, fearing attack from rebel cavalry, the regiment inclosed the train in a breast-work at 2 p. m. we moved with train to a position near Cassville and camped. May 20, remained in same position. May 21, were relieved from train guard and rejoined brigade. May 22, remained in same position. May 23, marched ten miles, crossing Etowah River on pontoon bridge, and camping near bank of the same in line of battle. May 24, marched fifteen miles; camped near Burnt Hickory Gap, building breast-works. May 25, marched at 7.30 a. m., taking direct road to Dallas. The Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, engaged the enemy, and at 4 p. m. the regiment, together with the brigade, were formed and moved forward as support to Second Division; the regiment was not engaged, but lost 1 man killed and 10 men wounded, including l officer. We lay in line all night. May 26, moved to the right and relieved Thirty-third Indiana on first line of works; improved the same; skirmished heavily, losing 1 man killed and 8 men wounded, including 1 officer; relieved from duty on first line; moved short distance to right and camped. May 27, took position in works in our front. First Brigade, Third Division, moved one-quarter of a mile to front, and, together with detail from Second Brigade, built line of works; regiment lost 1 man wounded. May 28, did not change position; lost l man wounded. May 29, remained in same position. May 30, advanced to works built by First Brigade and relieved Nineteenth Michigan. May 31, remained in same position.
June 1, the regiment, with brigade and division, was relieved by Fourteenth Corps, and marched to the left six miles and camped on large hill. June 2, marched farther to the left and formed line as support to Twenty-third Army Corps; was not engaged; built temporary breast-works; camped for night. June 3, marched at 2 p.m.; went into camp at 5 p. m.; regiment was ordered to support battery; moved into line with battery and built one-fourth of a mile breast-works, taking till 3 a. m. June 4, moved ten rods to front, in line with brigade; built works; camped for night. June 5, no move was made. June 6, marched five miles, formed line of battle, and built breast-works near Mount Olivet Church. The regiment lay in this position doing some picket duty until June 15, when we marched two miles to front. Brigade was formed as support to First Brigade, which charged the enemy, driving him into his works. At dark we relieved First Brigade on first line, and worked all night perfecting breast-works; lost 2 men wounded. June 16, still held same position. The enemy and a raking fire on our works; lost 3 men killed and 7 wounded. At night rebel batteries opened, doing no damage, and during noise made by their artillery they retreated. June 17, followed after the enemy and took position in open field facing their works, building breast-works and camping for the night. June 18, skirmishing in front; lost 1 man killed and 2 wounded.
June 19, enemy retreated in night; at 10 a. m. marched, came upon the enemy, and the division moved forward in three lines, Second Brigade in rear; heavy skirmishing but no engagement. At dark the First and Third Brigades were withdrawn, and Second Brigade built works on first line. June 20, moved thirty rods to front and built breast-works. June 21, remained in same position. June 22, regiment with brigade moved out of works and advanced in line, driving in rebel skirmishers and taking position, which we fortified. The enemy charged our position but was repulsed; our loss was 2 men killed and 10 wounded; were relieved by Fourth Army Corps, and moved three miles to right and camped for night. June 23, marched a short distance to right and advanced our line to connect with Twenty-third Army Corps on our right; built breast-works. We
lay in or near this position doing some picketing, and losing 7 men wounded, until July 3. Were mustered for pay June 30, July 3.
On the night of the 2d the enemy left their strong works in our front. At daylight our division took the main Marietta road, but were stopped by shells from a rebel battery. After going two miles brigade was ordered to reconnoiter ground between road and Geary's (Second) division on our right. Brigade advanced in line of battle, passed Second Division, threw out skirmishers, and the regiment was ordered to support skirmish line; advanced two and a half miles; drove enemy's outposts. Brigade took position and fortified it under fire from enemy's battery. At dark was relieved by Fourteenth Army Corps; went to right and rear and camped. July 4. we moved to the right, built breast-works, and camped. July 5, marched four miles to front through the works the rebels had left during the night and camped on hill in rear of line of battle. July 6, moved two miles to left and took position in second line of battle; made camp, where we remained until the 17th instant, drawing clothing and affording the men a much needed rest. On the 17th instant the regiment broke camp, and, marching to the left, crossed the river near the railroad bridge by means of pontoons, and moving to the left three miles went into camp in rear of Fourth Army Corps. At 10 a. m. July 18 the division moved to the left of the Fourth Corps, and forming - Third Brigade in line of battle Second Brigade close column of division, and First Brigade by flank--moved forward on Atlanta turnpike. After marching about two miles our line of advance converged into that of other troops who had gone forward. We resumed our march by the flank, and camped again in rear of the Fourth Corps. On July 19 no move was made, the First Division working all day to construct a bridge across a deep stream called Peach Tree Creek, the enemy's skirmishers covering the creek by their fire. Early on the 20th instant the Third Division moved out, crossing the creek on bridge above mentioned. We now lay on a flat, beyond which lay two high ridges, the first covered by timber and occupied by the enemy's skirmishers. The second ridge was bare, a rail fence running along the top Parallel to our lines. The Twenty-second Wisconsin Regiment, being at head of the brigade column, was ordered to deploy as skirmishers. This was done under fire, the line connecting with Fourth Corps on the left and with line of Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, on the right. Three Companies, A, C, and F, were held as grand reserve. At 11 a. m. orders came to drive the enemy from the first ridge, which was effected without loss, and at or near 12 m. we were ordered to cross the ravine between the two ridges, take and hold the second ridge under cover of a fire from battery on left of Second Division. We moved forward at double-quick, delivering our fire as we ran. The rebel pickets scattered at our approach and left us in possession of this ridge, which was an important position. The regiment immediately threw up some light skirmish pits, the reserve of three companies intrenching as well as possible in ravine at foot of ridge. Our brigade in two lines had been formed at edge of woods covering the first ridge. Immediately in front of the second ridge was an open field of nearly half a mile in width; then came timber, and in this lay the enemy; mounted officers and bodies of troops could be seen front our skirmish line moving about and apparently massing preparatory to a charge. At fifteen minutes before 3 p. m. the first rebel line of battle emerged from the woods and came across the open field. This line was followed by two others, and with the true rebel yell they came upon us. Messengers were dispatched to the brigade commander for support, and the whole brigade was at once ordered forward. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, which had been delivering a rapid fire from the time the enemy left the woods, still held their ground until the line was broken on their right and left, and grape and canister fired at the enemy fell among our men, but the enemy's line was now within thirty feet of our rifle-pits, and to stay longer was certain capture. The order was given to ''rally on the reserve,'' which was done just as the brigade came cheering over the first ridge and down into the ravine. Now the enemy came pouring over the ridge we had just abandoned, and rushing down upon our lines in perfect crowds only to meet and fall before our fire. The fight raged in this way for nearly an hour, the enemy coming to the charge time after time and was always repulsed. Now a large body of the enemy was thrown upon the left of our division, but by a timely movement of the Third Brigade this was checked, and beaten at every point the enemy commenced falling back. Our men now rushed forward with cheers and volleys, and the victory was complete; the enemy fled in great confusion, our men following, taking prisoners, stand of colors, &c. In front of the Second Brigade the rebel dead and wounded strewed the ground, numbering upward of 200. The regiment went into this engagement with 18 officers and 315 men, and lost 7 men killed, 1 officer and 36 men wounded. Works were built and everything prepared to resist another attack. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, having been on duty all day, was in second line. July 21, no movement; lost 1 man wounded on skirmish line. During the night the enemy fell back to a strong position in the outskirts of the city of Atlanta. July 22, followed up, taking position within three-quarters of a mile of enemy's works and building shell-proof fortifications. The enemy's batteries were numerous in our front, and during the 23d, 24th, 25th, and 26th instant shells flew at all hours of the day, making it necessary that the men remain in their works. On the 26th instant the line was advanced some thirty rods and new works were built, occupying all day. At 10 p. m. the division was relieved by troops of Second Division and went into reserve in second line of works. The regiment lost this day 2 men wounded. July 27, nothing worthy of note occurred. July 28, moved to the right with division to re-enforce Gen. Howard's command, but after going three miles returned to camp, there being no necessity for our help. July 29, marched to the extreme right of the army and were thrown back to protect the flank; building breast-works. July 30, changed position about half a mile and fortified; no enemy in our immediate front. Remained here until August 2, when the division marched back to railroad, and, relieving a division of the Fourteenth Corps, occupied line of works. August 4, constructed line of works twenty rods in advance of present line by details from regiment. August 5, advanced into new line, completing same; made demonstration on picket-line that developed another rebel battery in our front. Angust 10, commenced, by detail, constructing line of works thirty rods in advance of present line. At dark on the 12th instant advanced into new line and lay on arms all night to support skirmishers, who were expected to advance. From this date nothing of importance occurred until the 25th instant; there was the usual amount of picket and artillery firing, but nothing worthy of note. At 8 p. m. August 25 the entire corps abandoned their line and moved back to the Chattahoochee River. Our brigade and the Third Brigade covered Turner's Ferry, where there was a pontoon bridge; breastworks and obstructions were built. On the 27th instant the enemy with artillery drove in the skirmishers, felt of our position, and retired. Remained here, sending out scouting parties daily, who always found the enemy at a distance, until September 2 a reconnaissance of 900 men from both brigades, under command of Col. John Coburn, commanding Second Brigade, moved out on the Atlanta road. On reaching the city limits the mayor of the city made a formal surrender of the city to Col. Coburn, and the force advanced, driving the enemy's cavalry out without loss. In the afternoon of same day a re-enforcement of 500 men, under Lieut.Col. Bloodgood, came from ferry to re-enforce Col. Coburn, and on the following day the balance of the regiment, with baggage, marched to city and the whole regiment took position in the defenses of the city, to the right of Decatur railroad. With the exception of a few shifts to the right and left, no move took place up to September 2. At this time the casualties in the regiment during the campaign are 27 enlisted men killed and 6 officers and 148 enlisted men wounded. The regiment numbers 16 officers and 261 enlisted men for duty.
I have the honor to be, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg. Regt.
Lieut. F. C. CRAWFORD,
Acting Assistant Adjutant Gen., Second Brigade.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. L.] REPORTS, ETC.--ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. PAGE 425-73
[Series I. Vol. 38. Part II, Reports. Serial No. 73.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND WISCONSIN INFANTRY VOLS., Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
CAPT.: I have the honor to submit the following military history of my command from the occupation of the city of Atlanta, Ga., to the present date:
September 2, the regiment took an active part in the occupation of Atlanta, by the Second Brigade, under command of Col. John Coburn, Thirty-third Indiana, and taking position in the earth-works of the enemy, went into camp. Nothing of note took place until October 16, when the regiment, with brigade (commanded by myself), accompanied a large foraging expedition, being absent four days, penetrating some thirty miles into the enemy's country, and loading some 800 wagons with corn and forage. A similar expedition started October 26, not going so far, however, but meeting with the same success, and without finding any considerable force of the rebels. During this time the regiment was commanded by Capt. A. G. Kellam, and I was in command of the brigade. About November 1 large preparations commenced for the campaign just ended. A full supply of clothing and equipments was issued to the men, and baggage of all kinds was reduced to its minimum. I resumed command of the regiment, having been relieved in command of brigade by Lieut.-Col. Crane, Eighty-fifth Indiana Volunteers. November 5, the entire corps broke camp, and moving three miles out of city on McDonough road, camped for night. On the morning of November 6 the pickets of the Second Brigade were attacked by a small force of the enemy's cavalry, who soon retired. At 3 p.m. orders came to return to the city, which was done, the troops occupying the quarters left by them the day before. During these two days the regiment received eight months' pay to August 31, 1864. November 8, election was held; the regiment polled 382 votes, 372 of which were for Lincoln.
Remained in camp, doing light picket duty until the orders came for the beginning of the campaign, whose objective point was a mystery.*
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records
CHAP. LI.] NORTH GEORGIA AND NORTH ALABAMA. PAGE 691-77
[Series I. Vol. 39. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 77.]
Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood,
Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND WISCONSIN INFANTRY VOLS., Savannah, Ga., December 25, 1864.
CAPT.:*
Early on the morning of November 15 the entire corps took the Decatur dirt road, and after getting beyond the fortifications stopped for dinner, being delayed by the trains of other divisions; crossed the Atlanta and Savannah railroad about half way between Atlanta and Decatur, and marched all night, only stopping about two hours on the morning of the 16th instant for breakfast. On this day the regiment was in the advance of brigade; marched all day, crossing for night a mile east of Yellow River at Rock Bridge. 17th instant, broke camp at 3.30 a. m., marching till dark, in an easterly direction, crossing Big Haynes Creek shortly after dinner. 18th instant, marched all day and night with train, reaching Social Circle just after sunrise. Passing through Rutledge, we tore up and burned about a mile of railroad, and camped within eight miles of Madison. 19th instant, broke camp, and after marching a short distance commenced tearing up railroad, which we destroyed clear to Madison, and, passing through this town, went into camp three miles beyond at an early hour. 20th instant, broke camp at 8 a. m., marched all day in a southeast direction, reached camp after a hard day's march about dark, stopping near Eatonton. 21st instant, moved out through rain and mud, marching through Eatonton; traveled ten miles; reached camp at 2.30 p. m. 22d instant, cold and windy; lay in camp until nearly night, when we moved out, crossing Little River (a branch of the Oconee), on pontoons, guarding train. 23d instant, reached Milledgeville, the State capital, just at daybreak; remained here in camp during the day; weather still quite cold. 24th instant, broke camp at 8 a. m., but did not get fairly started until 3 p. m.; crossed the Oconee River on bridge. 25th instant, marched six miles and camped on west side of Buffalo Creek. 26th instant, breaking camp at 8 a. m., reached Sandersville at an early hour, and camped for night. 27th instant, marched at 7.30 a. m., reaching Davisborough, on the railroad, shortly after dark. 28th instant, marched at 6.30, our brigade in advance of the corps. On reaching the Ogeechee, some twelve miles from Davisborough, found the bridges burned by the rebels, and went into camp for night; engineers and pontoniers were at once put to work, and 29th instant, the troops and trains commenced crossing. The rear of the train did not pass until nearly dark. Just at dark our brigade crossed, camping a short distance beyond the stream at 10 p. m. November 30, remained in camp all day, waiting for trains to pass, and starting at 9 in the evening, passing through Louisville, going very slowly, and camped at nearly morning, having accomplished but five miles.
December 1, remained in camp, waiting for passage of trains, until 3 p. m., and got over five miles of miserable country at midnight. December 2, broke camp at daylight; marched fifteen miles, camping at dark in corn-field west of Jones Creek. December 3, leaving camp at an early hour, and passing near Millen and the prison pen, where our prisoners were confined, keeping north of the Savannah railroad until dark when we crossed it, and, crossing some half dozen swamps, went into camp at midnight. December 4, after a rainy night broke encampment at 7.30 a. m. Our brigade marched as train guard; accomplished six miles over horrible roads. Cannonading can be heard in the direction of the coast. December 5, marched fifteen miles through a dead level country, heavily timbered with pine; swamps numerous. December 6, broke camp at 5 a. m., our brigade in advance of corps; camped after going but a few miles. December 7, leaving camp at 8 a. m., marched ten miles, camping near Springfield, an unimportant town. December 8, our division in the rear lay in camp until, crossed a small creek, and remaining there until sundown, reached camp at 11 p. m. December 9, broke camp at daylight; marched fourteen miles; are getting within striking distance of Savannah. December 10, marching at daylight on an excellent road, we crossed the Charleston and Savannah road ten miles from the latter place. About four miles out our advance struck the enemy's outposts, and skirmishing continued throughout the day. Troops went into position, and our brigade, being in reserve, went into camp in good season. December 11, on the morning of this day, pursuant to orders from corps headquarters, the regiment moved back on the main road, and, accompanied by Battery I, First New York Artillery, which it was to support, took a cross-road leading to the bank of the Savannah River at a point about six miles from the city in a direct line. The object of this movement was to plant the battery in a position commanding the main channel of the river and prevent the enemy's gun-boats that were known to be up the river from getting to the city. The battery went into position and the regiment also, one wing being placed on the right, the other on the left of the guns. A strong earth-work was constructed, and parties were at once sent out to secure all small boats and rice barges (a species of scow) that were in the river, it being rightly foreseen that they would be of use in future. Opposite to us lay an island, several miles in length and from one to two in width. The island (called Argyle) was one grand rice swamp, and was thickly traversed by ditches, dikes, and canals. A large rice mill, just opposite to our position and on the farther or eastern side of the island, was guarded by Company F, Capt. R. T. Pugh. At dark the Third Regt. Wisconsin Infantry, Col. Hawley, belonging to First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, commenced crossing over to the island, using all the boats collected by the regiment during the day. The Third Wisconsin relieved the guard over rice mills, and they returned to the regiment during the night.
December 12, the forenoon was occupied in strengthening works and collecting boats; guards were also sent to rice mills one and two miles above us on the river-bank. At about 3 p. m. a smoke was discovered some miles up the river, but rapidly nearing. At last they were made out to be three boats, two side-wheel wooden boats and one having the long, low hull and rakish build of a modern gun-boat. As they came within range our battery opened fire and was quickly responded to by thegun-boat, which was behind, and soon after by the second boat in theline. The battery worked rapidly, and by the time the boats had arrived within half a mile two of them had been struck. As they came to a turn in the channel that gave us a raking fire at them there appeared to be some hesitation, which ended in the two rear boats heading up stream, and, putting on full steam, rapidly leaving the boat on the lead to shift for herself, but she was both disabled and aground. This being observed word was at once sent to Col. Hawley, proposing that he move his men up from the mill on the island and take possession of the boat, as she had gone ashore on Argyle Island, and as there were no boats that were available for that purpose at the regiment. This was done. The boat, Resolute, C. S. Navy, ran up the white flag and was boarded by our men. Her crew consisted of 7 officers and 22 men; she had no armament. The other two boats carried each several guns. A crew was selected from the regiment, who brought her off the bar and moored her just below the battery. Repairs were at once commenced. It was found that two shots had passed with her, and that she was also seriously damaged by colliding with the other boats as they turned round. No further attempt was made by the boats that escaped to get to the city. From this time nothing of importance occurred for some days. A party of the regiment, under the charge of myself, explored Argyle Island to the head, finding canals extending from one channel into the other. December below the island were burned before the occupation. The enemy still hover about the South Carolina shore, and there is some skirmishing across the channel that separates Argyle Island from the shore. December 22, 23, and 24, remained in camp, sending guard of 100 men to first rice mill on river. December 25, broke camp at 10 a. m. and joined brigade in outskirts of the city.
During the past campaign there have been no casualties in this regiment. It numbers 315 men present. There is but little sickness and no deaths.
Appended is a table of distances from point to point, gathered from the most reliable sources within reach, and extending from Atlanta to Savannah:
| Miles | |
| Atlanta to Decatur | 7 |
| Decatur to Rock Bridge | 14 |
| Rock Bridge to Sheffield | 13 |
| Sheffield to Social Circle | 14 |
| Social Circle to Rutledge | 7 |
| Rutledge | 9 |
| Madison to Eatonton | 20 |
| Eatonton to Milledgeville | 21 |
| Milledgeville to Hebron | 18 |
| Hebron to Sandersville | 10 |
| Sandersville to Davisborough | 10 |
| Davisborough to Louisville | 12 |
| Louisville to Millen | 30 |
| Millen to Springfield | 40 |
| Springfield to Savannah | 30 |
| Atlanta to Savannah | 255 |
Hoping the above will meet your approval,
Most respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BLOODGOOD,
Lieut.-Col., Cmdg.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen.
Source: Official Records
PAGE 344-92 OPERATIONS IN S. C., GA., AND FLA. [CHAP. LVI.
[Series I. Vol. 44. Serial No. 92.]
Report of Capt. Darwin R. May, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry, of operations January 2-March 24.
HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCONSIN INFTY. VOLS., Goldsborough, N. C., March 25, 1865.
CAPT.: Below please find report of the part taken by the Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the campaign through the Carolinas:
The regiment crossed the Savannah River with the brigade on the 2d day of January, 1865, and went into camp on the South Carolina shore. Remained in camp until the morning of the 4th, when it marched to Hardee's plantation, where it camped with the division and remained until the morning of the 17th of January. Marched on the morning of the 17th, passing through Hardeeville and campaign with the brigade at Purysburg, where it remained until the morning of the 29th of January. Marched from Purysburg on the 29th and went into camp at Robertsville on the 30th, where it remained until the morning of the 2d of February.
Marched from Robertsville on the 2d of February, passed through Lawtonville on the 3d, crossed the Combahee River, near Barnwell Church on the 6th, and struck the Charleston and Augusta Railroad near Lowry's Turnout on the 7th of February. The 8th, 9th, and 10th were spent on the railroad, passing through Graham's Blackville, and Williston, and destroying railroad track, crossed the South Branch of the Edisto River on the 12th and the North Branch of the Edisto on the 13th, arriving in front of Columbia on the 16th of February. Crossed the Saluda River, near Mount Zion, on the 18th and Broad River on the 20th. Passed through Winnsborough on the 21st and crossed the Catawba River, near Rocky Mount, on the 23d of February. On the 24th of February Lieut. Knowles, of Company C, in command of regimental foragers, was captured, together with two enlisted men of the regiment. Reached Hanging Rock on the 26th, where it remained in camp one day.
Crossed Lynch's Creek on the 1st of March and camped in Chesterfield on the 3d. March 4, crossed the State line and camped near Sneedsborough, N. C., where it remained until the 6th, when it marched to Cheraw S. C. Crossed the Great Pedee at Cheraw on the 7th of March. On the 8th crossed the Wilmington and Rockingham Railroad, and on the 11th reached Fayetteville. Remained in camp on the 12th. On the 13th marched in review through Fayetteville, crossed the Cape Fear River, and went into camp about two miles from the river. Marched from Fayetteville on the 15th, taking the Raleigh road. Participated in the engagement of the 16th of March, having four men wounded. Camped at Averasborough on the 17th, and marched on the 18th, taking the Goldsborough road. During the engagement of the 19th, 20th, 21st were in position on the left of the First Division, Twentieth Corps, but at no time engaged with the enemy. Crossed the Neuse River on the 23d, and went into camp at Goldsborough on the 24th of March.
During the campaign the regiment has marched about 480 miles; has destroyed one mile of railroad track, and has built about two miles and a half of corduroy road. It is estimated that the regiment has foraged from the country about 15,000 pounds of meat and 17,000 pounds of breadstuffs, with about 50 horses and mules.
The regiment foragers under Lieut. Knowles, and, after his capture, under Lieut. Morse, of Company K, have done good service, and have had frequent skirmishes with the enemy, and captured a number of prisoners. On the 11th of March Lieut. Morse, with his command, entered the city of Fayetteville and with other foragers drove the enemy from the place sometime before the advance of our main column reached the city.
The casualties during the campaign have been 1 commissioned officer and 2 enlisted men captured, 4 enlisted men wounded, and 2 enlisted men missing, as follows.*
I am, captain, very respectfully, &c.,
D. R. MAY,
Capt. Cmdg. Twenty-second Regt. Wisconsin Vol. Infty.
Capt. A. G. KELLAM, A. A. A. G., 2d Brig., 3d Div., 20th Army Corps.
CHAP. LIX.] THE CAMPAIGN OF THE CAROLINAS. PAGE 819-98
[Series I. Vol. 47. Part I, Reports. Serial No. 98.]
Battles (where losses incurred) involving 22nd Infantry Regiment
| Location | Date | Killed | Wounded | POW | Missing | Losses |
| Atlanta, GA | Jul 22 1864 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Atlanta, GA | Aug 4 1864 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Averysboro, NC | Mar 16 1865 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Brentwood, TN | Mar 25 1863 | 0 | 4 | 72 | 0 | 76 |
| Dallas, GA | May 25 1864 | 1 | 17 | 0 | 0 | 18 |
| Kenesaw Mountain, GA | Jun 16 1864 | 6 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 26 |
| Lost Mountain, GA | Oct 4 1864 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| New Hope Church, GA | May 25 1864 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Peach Tree Creek, GA | Jul 20 1864 | 8 | 22 | 0 | 0 | 30 |
| Resaca, GA | May 14 1864 | 11 | 61 | 1 | 0 | 73 |
| Thompson's Station, TN | Mar 5 1863 | 2 | 19 | 55 | 0 | 76 |
Brigade, Division, Corps, and Army assignments for 22nd Infantry Regiment
| From | To | Brigade | Division | Corps | Army/Department | Comments |
| Oct 7 1862 | Oct 1862 | 2 | 1 | Army of Kentucky | Army and Dept of Ohio | New Organization |
| Oct 7 1862 | Feb 1863 | 1 | 3 | Army of Kentucky | Army and Dept of Ohio | |
| Feb 1863 | Jun 8 1863 | 1 | Baird's | Army of Kentucky | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | |
| Jun 8 1863 | Oct 9 1863 | 3 | 1 | Reserve | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | |
| Oct 1863 | Dec 1863 | Coburn's | | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | ||
| Dec 1863 | Jan 1864 | Coburn's | Post Murfreesboro | District Nashville | Military Division of the Mississippi | |
| Jan 12 1864 | Apr 16 1864 | 2 | 1 | 11 | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | |
| Apr 14 1864 | Jun 1865 | 2 | 3 | 20 | Dept and Army of Ohio and Cumberland | Mustered Out |
Roster for 22nd Infantry Regiment - 1,522 men
Source: Roster of Wisconsin Volunteers; War of the Rebellion, 1861-1865; Volumes I and II; compiled by Authority of the Legislature, under the direction of Jeremiah M. Rusk, Governor & Chandler P. Chapman, Adjutant General; Democrat Printing Company, State Printers; Madison, Wisconsin; 1886
| Abink - Dame | Damon - Joerris |
| Johnson - Powles | Prescott - Zum Brunnen |
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