I '. ,ViM ^ ' "ill QJnrnpU HniufrBtty ffiibrarg 3tt)ata, SCeiu fork THE JAMES VERNER SCAIFE COLLECTION CIVIL WAR LITERATURE THE GIFT OP JAMES VERNER SCAIFE CLASS OF 1S89 1919 ■ffOtTNDED. - — Van Sych, Lieutenant, Co. E— thigh in^hThanf •"' ''"™''' '^- ^' '^'^'^ ^ork citr_wo™<^ G. H. Swain , private, Co. A— elbow // « . Jeremiah Donovan, private, Co. A— head ' James H. SIcinner, private, Co. E inthe iMgh" *"' ''"™'*' ^- ^' ^"^ "^°'-'' city-wound, wol"dedilTbel^*'°'^''™*''*-^'^^- ^-"^ «"J Henry Millivotto, private, Co. E, JTew York ritl wounded in the chin .and shoulder Jfcrk citl James Early, private, Co. G-wounded in the hand J Neal Cannon, private, Co. G_sida, slightly "'■ Richard Scanlan, orivate, Co. K— shoulder V Glancy M. Wheeler, jirivate, Co. K— leir ' Total wounded J4. *' , - -- J ^.uuuu. x>y command of Chas.T.Gardner,^:^g-^:5^.j]-:g^;y- '^iWKINS' ZOHAYES, NTNTH H!5smE> -^ p--' NSW YOBiC SttijkTB VOLUNTEEliS. ~, In oorskBtcK yesterday of Colonel R. C. Hawkins, we tmrntcntionally did him a great injustice, which we are glad to correct. He is a gentleman entirely incapahio of "managing to make the acquaintance of any one," and the phrase got into onr notice of him through mistake. Colonel Hawkins was born in Woodstock, Vermont, and is a grandson of Dextor Hawkins, a native of Provi- dence, R. I. , who entered the army of the Revolution at sixteen, served two years, and was in the battle of Ben- nington. He is also a grand relative of Gov. fiopkins , one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Ey the death of his father he was left an orphan at eight years of age. He was educated at the military school Of Capt. Partridge, at Norwich, Vt.,and at sixteen went to Boston, a totaistranger,toseek his fortune, having paid his last dollar for his fare on the train. Hare hemet Lieut Lynch, of the navy, who was on the point of sailing, with the sloop-of-war Portsmouth, on what was called the "Dead Sea Expo'Htion," and obtained permission to go with him as a o mteer cadet. While on this expedition ho visited most of the larger towns on the shores of th, Mediterranean. Returning to Pensacola, the vessel was or- dered to Vera Cruz to join General Scott's expedition againsj Mexico. Ho there entered the corps of Cadet Sappers and Miners, organized at West Point, and followed Gen, Scott from Vera Cruz to the city of Mexico. He was olteu under fire, and at the storming of the city (in the celebrated charge of a mile and a half across the causeway, at the h. PTJBXjISHKr) 33Y:TIIB AUTHOR. MAY, 1866. TO TEE WIDOWS AND ORPEANS, TEE BEREAVED PARENTS, AND TEE RELATIVES OF TEE BRAVE EE- ROES WEO EAVE FALLEN IN TEE RANKS OF TEE NINTE, TEIS RECORD IS INSCRIBED. f REFACE. This -work is written simply to give a faithful account of the Battles, Marches, and Camp Life of the Hawkins Zottaves. We feel that it is due to the honored dead and the surviving members of the Regiment, that their names and the valuable ser- vice they have given to their Country be retained in the records of the Great Struggle. We would acknowledge our indebtedness to sev- eral members of the Regiment for assistance ren- dered in connection with the undertaking. F ONTENTS. PART I. PAGE From Castle Garden to Eikek"? Island, . . , . 13 Organization — First Principles — Sworn in Serrice. PART 11. Feom Eibiee's Island to Newports News, . . . .18 In Barraclfs — Spoiling for Fight — Speech — Jumping fAccs — Inspection by General Dix — Leaving the Island — Present- ation and Oration — Oif for the- Scat of War. PART ni. Newtoets Kews to Hatteeas 33 First Camp — First March — First Battle — Retreat — Sltirmish of Company F — Rcconnoissance — Colonel Phelps — Company A go out — Capture — Disaffection and Satisfaction — Compa- • Dies G, H, and C off for Hatteras. PART IV. Hattekas to Roanoke, 64 Colonel Hawkins commands liinded Forces at Hatteras — A Document — ^A Warning, repeated — Arrival of Companies A, D, E, F, and I — Chicomoeomico^Capture of the " Fanny," and of the " Peacock," who shows- false Colors — Battle and Retreat — The Third Georgia Regiment — B and K leaving the General — The "Bernard Affair" — Violent Storm — Narrow Escape — Bnrnside Eipedition— ^Crossing the "Swash" — De- parture in the Fleet. Vlll CONTENTS. PART V. Roanoke to Wintok, "?! Landing— Mud and Rain at Ashby's— The Fight Opens — Going into Battle — First Charge of the War — Victory — Re- port of Colonel Hawkins — Moving — No Crackers — Go on the Boats — B and H at Nag's Head — Up the Albemarle — Blood- less Battle — Burning of Winton — Report of Colonel Hawkins. PART VI. Roanoke to Camden, 91 Making Things Comfortable — Colonel Hawkins in Command of Brigade — New Colors — H and I make a Capture — Perilous Undertaking — ^Up the Pasquotank — Midnight March — Battle of Camden — ^Another Tramp — Back to Roanoke — Exhaustion. PART VIL Roanoke to Norfolk and Newpobts News 109 Homelike Indulgencies — Minstrel Club — Company C strike t the Enemy — Sword presented to Colonel Hawkins — Company K go to Norfolk, via Canal — Company F go to Plymouth — Fourth of July — To the Neuse River, and back — Arrival at Norfolk — At Newports News again. PART vni. Newports News to FREMRiCKSBDRGn and Washington, . . 119 Up the Potomac — At Acquia Creek — At Fredericksburgh — Company K surprise the Enemy — Midnight Slippery March — • Up the Potomac again — ^Arrival at Washington. PART IX. Washington to Frederick I24 Colonel Hawkins leaves for New- York — March — Brookville Laytonsville — Ridgeville — Cheering for Company F Reach the Monooacy — ^Frederick. PART X. Frederick to Antietam j,™ Wearisome Chase — Zouave Firemen — Marching again CONTENTS. ix Battle of. Soiltb-Hoantain — Hungry Zouaves — ^Advance upon the Rebels — Feeling in the Dark for the Enemy — Approaching Battle. PART XI. Antietam to Pleasant Valley, 1S9 Battle of Antietam — Terrible Charge — Horrible Havoc — March. PART xa. Pleasant Valley to Falmouth, 158 Rich Valley with poor Provender — Crossing the Potomac — Marching several Weeks — Arrival before Fredericksburgh. PART xin. Falmouth to Suffolk, 16G Crossing the Rappahannock — Battle of Fredericksburgh — Retreat — Company G returns — Company F returns from Ply- mouth — At Newports News again — Ball-playing — Up the Eliza- beth — ^Norfolk — Arrival at Suffolk. PART XIV. Tragedy and Obsequies, 175 Murder of Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball — Confession of Gen- eral Corcoran — Escort to New-York — Grand Procession and BuriaL PART XV. Suffolk to New-Toek, 180 Siege of Suffolk— "Post of Honor" — A Change in the Manner of Battle — General Dix's Letter — Colonel Hawkins's Reply — Complimentary Order of General Getty — Arrival at New- York — ^Parade in the Rain — " Home Again." PART xvr. Mustered Out 190 Funeral of Colonel Ringold — Mustered Out. PART xvn. Company F at Plymouth, 194 Rainbow Bluffs — Up the Chowan — Native Militia — Battle of X CONTENTS. Plymouth — Bravery of Sergeant Green — March to Tarboro and Back — SaU for Washington — Rejoin the Regiment. PART XVIII. Tablet of Killed, Wounded, and Deceased J98 APPENDIX— Notes 211 TO THE MEMBERS OF THE REGIMENT. "I believe the fellowship begotten of army association scarcely has its counterpart in any other of the relations of life. It is stronger than a three-fold cord that can not be broken. Your comrade in battle, your habitual file-leader, your next-hand man in the ranks, and, most of all, your mess- mate and blanket-fellow, is your friend for life. The feelings you cherish for him differ, somehow, from those you have toward any one else. Partnership in danger, privation, and toil, communion in sorrows, sufferings, and triumphs, have inseparably knit your hearts together. Diversely as your paths may now be leading, you all love to go back to the time when they were one, and your lives had all things in common." — Beadle's Monthly. The Hawkins Zouayes. Parj First ■. (?astle (Pandett to Kiton's Island. WHEN Abraham Lincoln issued his proclamation calling for troops to save the country, in all the length and breadth of the loyal North patriots of future renown arose from apparent obscurity. So simultaneously did they go forth with that gen- erous enthusiasm so inherent in the national cha- racter, that it seemed as though they issued in a resurrection of those who, in the Revolution, laid down their lives that the same Providence they then obeyed might lift them up again. The very first to respond to tlie sudden call was the Colonel who commanded that small but faithful band of heroes whose name occupies these pages. Upon the same day that the proclamation was received, he went to Albany, and oflfered the services of a com- pany of New- York Zouaves,* which was accepted by the Governor, and permission granted for the raising of a regiment of Zouaves. ♦ Note A in Appendix. 14 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Upon his return the next day, Colonel Hawkins had hut to unfurl the flag, and a thousand patriots rallied around him, willing to brighten each stripe of the banner with the crimson of their own blood. The headquarters of the New-Tork Zouaves was selected as a rendezvous, and men began rapidly to enlist under the Zouave banner, so that in a short time the inadequacy of the quarters was apparent, and Colonel Hawkins, applying for more suitable ac- commodations, obtained Castle Garden. The regi- ment was marched down Broadway one night amidst the cheers of multitudes, and took possession of the ancient fortification. It was the first capture made by the regiment, and there were surrendered to each man as spoil, a cup, plate, knife, fork, and spoon. One man began playing juggler tricks with these sol- dierly implements, when his finger came in contact with the edge of the knife ; he sustained the merit of being the first man wounded in the regiment. They found their new quarters sufficiently spacious, if that was all that was desired, but the quality of the enter- tainment throughout was looked upon in a disap- pointed manner by those who had blown the bubble of expectation too lai-ge. Ensuing experience, how- ever, created visions that transformed the d^pot into something like a palace. In a few days an election for line-officers took place; shortly afterward the non-commissioned offi- cers were appointed. An examination by the sur- geons resulted in the rejection of some few who had consulted their desire rather than their ability to bear arms. THEIR BATTLES AM) MARCHES. 15 On the 23d of Apiil, six companies were sworn into the State service ; on the 27th, the remaining four took the same oath of fealty. On Sunday, May 2d, for the first time since the days of the Kevolution, religious services were held within the walls of the old castle. The Rev. T. W. Conway (afterward Superintendent of Freedmen in Louisiana) conducted the worship. In the morning, the troops were drawn up in mass, confronting the desk occupied by the chaplain, and for forty minutes they listened with profound interest to the able and affecting discourse of the worthy man. While the drilling without muskets drew immense crowds to witness the evolutions, it became a ques- tion with Colonel Hawkins as to whether he could not obtain quarters more convenient for the men; for some dissatisfaction already existed, not among the members of the regiment, but with the Commis- sioners of Emigration. An effort to fulfill this desire only resulted in worse accommodation ; for, upon marching the regiment to the premises that had been granted for the purpose in La Fayette Place, the men were dismissed for a few hours. Assembled again in the afternoon, they were conducted in order to Centre Market armories, where no adequate provision had been made. But Colonel Hawkins did not at once renounce all hope of yet securing for his command proper quarters for them to remain in. He applied to Captain Dodge, of Bedloe's Island, requesting him to allow that rendezvous to be occupied by the regi- ment ; but owing to the large force of United States troops stationed there, it could not be accommodated. 16 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Application to the commandant of Fort Hamilton only resulted in a similar manner. But shortly after- ward we find the Colonel, like an anxious guardian, leading his men back to Castle Garden, with the re- flection that there were less inconveniences inside than outside of it. On the 4th day of May, 1861, the whole regiment was sworn into the United States service by Captain Hayman, of the United States Army. New and extensive barracks had been in the course of erection for some time on Hiker's Island, and it was expected the " Ninth " would soon occupy them. Preparation to leave the d6p6t was not undertaken, however, until the 15th day of May. Their depart- ure had been announced in the daily papers, and an immense concourse of citizens gathered around the Battery to witness the occasion of their embarkation ; but the spectators were in a measure disappointed when they learned that the regiment had formed in-, side the Castle, and were to embark from the pier of the Garden. The order to be ready had been desig- nated at nine o'clock, which order was strictly ad- hered to, and all its detail observed. The luggage having been put on the steamer Young America and the barge Irene, the men were marched aboard. The steamer cut loose her hawser, and hauling the barge out in the stream, began to move for the East Eiver. The drum-corps of the " Ninth " gave a parting salute, and the most deafening cheers went up from the vast multitude outside the Battery. The members of the Second New- York were drawn up in line at the water's edge, and gave the Zouaves an enthusiastic THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 17 cheering ; their drum-corps also beating a salute to their departure. Finally, Captain Mott's battery, of two twelve-pound howitzers, opened their throats and belched forth a deafening farewell of eleven rounds. The different scenes on the shore were indeed animat- ing, all the space between the bell-ringing and gun- firing being filled with the waving of handkerchiefs by the fair sex, who were there in large numbers ; the Zouaves, in the mean time, making themselves hoarse in their attempts to return all the compliments. This condition of enthusiasm did not cease until they were far up the East Kiver, out of sight. Every vessel that passed the regiment gave some token of ap- plause, either by the crew cheering, or the dipping of colors, blowing of whistle, or ringing of bell. When above Blackwell's Island, the United States steamer Vixen, coming down the river, was greeted appro- priately by the troops, and the notice was ceremo- niously returned by the gallant tars, the officers lifting their caps in true navy style. About twelve o'clock m., the troops arrived at their destination on the island, and the disembarkation was rapidly effected in a manner that gave evidence that they could already handle their luggage with alacrity ; which is easily accounted for from the fact that the men were all active, intelligent, and young, few of them being more than twenty-five years of age. 18 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Part Second : Jfnom Kifeeii's Island to 1^ewpo»it8 '^ews. THE quarters in the neatly constructed barracks were such as the most fastidious could not com- plain of, and the "Ninth" cheerfully took posses- sion of them; and the commodious arrangements that had been effected in all the departments were greeted with approbation. The plan of the buildings was in the form ot a parallelogram, the avenue within answering as streets for the various companies, for the use of roll-call, company inspection, etc. The ordnance department and the hospital closed one end of the square, the other being left open for the free exit and ingress of the troops to and from the parade and drill-ground. The guard-room, mess-room, and officei-s' quartere were opposite the quarters of the men. The field and staff were outside the square. The entire ar- rangements were planned and laid out by Colonel Hawkins, and great credit is due to the skillful man- agement by which they were accomplished. The culinary department was superintended by Mr. "W". B. Davis, who was one of the contractors for sup- plying the regiment with rations. A most rigid observance of a soldier's duties was THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 19 now enforced ; and althongh they .were found to be ratlier burdensome at first, yet custom gradually mod- ified their severity, and the result of a few weeks' discipline was truly surprising. One evening, when Major Kimball happened to be in New-York, the very interesting ceremony of pre- senting him with a sword took place. It was given by the news agents of the city, with whom Major Kimball had been associated a great many years. His faithfulness to his friends, and his free exhibition of patriotism, drew from them this token of their esteem. When the sword was handed to him, he scrutinized it in a manner that fully attested his gratefulness for the appropriate gift. He replied in a soldier-like speech. The members of the regiment, now having some idea of the discipline required of the soldier, and the manner of its performance, began to exhibit some anxiety to be placed in a situation where the labor they had undergone to acquire it might not be lost, but would be serviceable to the cause they left their homes to aid. Although the Colonel laboriously ex- erted himself to secure for them an early transport- ation to the seat of war, yet that fact did not console them, and they were still clamorous to be off. The Fifth New- York Yolunteers, from Fort Schuyler, passed the island, on their way to Fortress Monroe, and the six-pounder of Camp Hawkins was wheeled out to give them a parting salute, in connection with the stentorian cheers the regiment were sending out for the same purpose. This incident only augmented the desire they had cherished to depart in the same 20 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: direction; and shortly after, the uproar became so great upon an occasion when Colonel Hawkins had just returned from the city, that he was obliged to resort to a speech to pacify them. The enthusiasm they exhibited fully betokened the earnestness of their appeals to be brought in contact with the malig- nant foes of the government. The Colonel frankly told them of the situation of affairs, ^nd stated what they might expect, urging upon them an exercise of that patience necessary to a full enjoyment of the realization that would eventually ensue. He ex- pounded the difficulties attendant upon so gigantic a preparation for war among a people like om's, and besought them rather to assist in the strflggle by a faithful reliance upon the integrity of the authorities to discharge their arduous and troublesome duties, than to hinder or annoy tliem by any untimely de- monstrations of dissatisfaction. He knew the delay was tedious, but said they would lose nothing in be- coming well drilled and expert in jumping fences;* and he would assure them that they should depart in a few days, so that the next fence they jumped would be that one intervening between them and the enemy. The closing remark was received with prolonged cheers, and the next moment the Colonel might be seen borne high on the shoulders of the crowd to his own quarters. A new uniform of Zouave dress had been issued to * They had been drilled in marching over the stone walls. They would advnnce to the wall in line, quickly spring over to the other side and having hastily formed in line again, would march on as though no impediment could hinder them. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 21 the regiment, and passes were now granted to a cer- tain number of men each day, that they might have the opportunity of taking a iinal leave of their fam- ilies, their homes, and the social circle. Inoculation had been performed throughout the entire regiment by Surgeon Humphreys and Assist- ant Surgeon White, and its sanitary condition was most satisfactory. The regiment now being in an excellent condition, and fully armed and equipped, it became necessary to inspect and review it. Accordingly General Dix, within whose department the Zouaves had been as- signed, ordered a parade for that purpose on the first day of June. After a severe battalion drill, the men were drawn up in line of battle, and aboiit three o'clock the General, accompanied by Colonel Keys, of the United States Army, arrived upon the groiind. It was well undei-stood that the occasion would be an interesting one, and therefore quite an assemblage, composed of the friends of the regiment, had gathered t-Jiemselves to witness it. There was a plentiful number of ladies present, who, in gay attire, dotted the parade in groups, like clusters of flowers in the midst of more hardy plants. The drum and bugle- corps were on the ground, and proved themselves quite a novelty to the visitors. After the dress-parade, the regiment was minutely inspected by General Dix, who could not refrain from expressing his admiration, as each step up and down the line called for some new mark of praise. He was greatly satisfied with the completeness of every thing, and so expressed himself to the commandant of the " Ninth." After 2* 22 THE HAWKIN-S ZOUAVES: the inspection the regiment passed in review, and the General was greatly astonished at the degree of per- fection they had attained in marching in so brief a. time. But it is not so surprising if we consider that the Zouaves were drilled seven hours each day. After they were dismissed, he said he liked the appearance of the men both off and on drill, whether in full dress or in fatigue about their work. Their faces were a study ; and he was really proud that such a noble set of men had been assigned to his command. As a General, he would not be unmindful of the treat- ment they merited. He felt certain they would some day distinguish themselves. The following order was issued by Colonel Hawkins, in anticipation of leaving for the seat of war : Headquarters Ninth N. Y. V., •Camp Hawkins, June 1, 1861. The friends of the Ninth New- York Volunteers will be per- mitted to visit Rikcr's Island on Sunday. Steamer Thomas Hunt leaves Peck Slip at 1 o'clock p.m. No other boat wiU be allowed to land passengers. By order Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel Commanding. The Colonel also ordered a long-roll to be beaten in the small hours of Sunday, in order to test the ability of the regiment to turn out hastily under arms, fully equipped. It was only another manner of show- ing the proficiency the Zouaves had attained. Four guns were fired by the guard, and immediately after the drums and fifes sounded the alarm. Almost in an instant every captain had his company out, guard THEIR BATTLES AKD MARCHES. 23 was posted, and every preparation made for repelling the sham attack. The time occupied for all was a moment less than nine minutes. An enterprising German, however, had, by some unaccountable means, ascertained that such an order would be issued ; and anticipating, the time somewhat, he slung his knapsack, shouldered his musket, and repaired to the drummers' quarters, and beating the door with his musket, shouted, " Beat ter long-roll, I ish oil ready ! " On Sunday afternoon two sets of colors were pre- sented to Companies A, C, D, and G, by some ladies of Hoboken, New-Jersey. The presentation took place on the parade-ground in the midst of an inter- ested assemblage, for a great number of visitors had availed themselves of the opportunity presented by the order of Colonel Hawkins. The flags displayed considerable taste in their execution, and were well worthy the delicate hands that worked them. The Zouaves had added some interest to the day by decorating their barracks and company streets with patriotic devices in evergreens, and gay festoons in red, white, and blue. Each company had its own at- tractive novelty. The ladies were unsparing in their admiration, notwithstanding their anticipations were greatly disappointed that a soldier should have any taste whatever ; and it is supposed that many, after returning home, consoled themselves with the thought that still a spark of humanity lingered in the breast of the savage. The mess-room was an object of particular interest. When strangers are thrown in society quite foreign tq 24 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : them, there is nothing of which they are half so ob- serving as of the manners of epic pastime. The ladies were anxious to see how the soldiers would eat. When dinner-call was sounded, the alacrity with which the knife, fork, cup, and plate were seized was suggestive to the observer of the supple nature of the Zouaves in a moment of emergency. During the afternoon, Major Kimball was waited upon at his quarters by a few friends from the New- York Custom-House, who presented him with a beau- tiful pair of epaulettes, the gift of the weighers of that establishment. They were a handsome present, and the Major evinced his appreciation of them in many ways. Preparations for departure from the island were made on Monday. The arrangements had been so perfected that a transfer of tlie regiment, with its entire luggage and stores, might take place imme- diately upon the arrival of the steamer. It was ex- pected at ten o'clock, and they only awaited the order to march aboard. But they were doomed to disap- pointment then, as they have been since upon many occasions of a similar nature. No transportation ar- rived that day, and they were obliged to wait until the Wednesday following. After the postponement of their departure. Colonel Hawkins issued an order to those who had been grant- ed passes, but who were yet in the city. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 25 I Specip,! Order > \ No. 12. > Camp Hawkins, Rikek's Island, June 4, 1861. All absentees of the Ninth New- York Volunteers are hereby- ordered to report themselves on board the steamer Marion, at Pier No. 4 North River, on Wednesday, the 5th inst., at 12 m., for the purpose of sailing for Fortress Monroe. By order Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel Commanding. At the appointed time the men were marched aboard the steamer, which started down the East Kiver with them. It was fine weather, and all the circumstances seemed propitiously xmited for the occasion. Every thing seemed suggestive of complete success ; and the accounts already given leave no room to doubt that the prognostications were fully verified. Their pas- sage down the river was marked by the occasional salute of a gun, and the more frequent cheers of in- dividuals who had congregated in noisy crowds upon either side, and the flaunting of gay banners, gaudy handkerchiefs, and various other signs of enthusiasm and good- will. When arrived at the foot of Thirtieth street, the Zouaves were formed in parade line, after consider- able delay in contending with the great mass of peo- ple there congregated for suificient ground to estab- lish an alignment. They were soon under headway, marching up Thirty-fourth street to Fifth avenue, down which they turned, and soon reaching the res- idence of Mr. A. W. Griswold, they were halted for the purpose of receiving a handsome flag from the 26 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: hands of Mrs. Griswold. The regiment was carefully drawn up in liae, the centre opposite the dwelling. The Rev. Gardiner Spring approached Colonel Haw- kins, and after presenting the colors, delivered an ad- dress, which we give below : Colonel Hawkins, Officers and Soldiers of the Ninth Regi- ment New-York Volunteers : I have been requested by Mrs. Griswold, now here, to present to you this splendid emblem of our nationality, and I desire to do this with a few introductory remarks. I, who, for over fifty years, have been enlisted under the banner of the Prince of Peace, find myself exactly in such a novel position as, yourselves, who have enlisted in the noble cause of defending your country against a band of outlaws, who, defying all law of righteousness, are striving to overthrow this, the happiest government on earth. Secession dates as far back as the days when the ten tribes of Israel were lost, and even further, for the devil himself was a secessionist. I look upon this vile controversy as the most wick- ed ever got up bv man. I give you my blessing. The blessings and prayers of the whole civilized world are with you. I pledge myself that the prayers and blessings of the Brick Church shall not be wanting. May the God of battles be with you, and in the hour of danger hover over you. Accompanying this fls^ is a letter fi-om Mrs. Griswold, which I will now read for you, as follows : No. 381 Fifth Avenue, June 5, 1861. Colonel Hawkins, Commandant op the Ninth Regiment New- York Volunteers. Colonel : I have the honor to present to you for your gallant regiment of Zouaves these colors. The Union of which this flag is the emblem was established by our fathers. Its cost was the price of blood. To their children they have confided the trust of guarding and upholding it. What obligation can be more sacredly binding upon them ? For more than three fourths THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 27 of a century this ensign has commanded the respect of every people, on land and sea, wherever civilization is known, even penetrating the dark corners of the earth, carrying light and free- dom with it. While thirty millions of people under its folds were enjoying life, liberty, and happiness as no other people ever did, foul traitors have raised their fratricidal hands against it. The Government has called upon its loyal citizens to come to its de- fense. The alacrity and zeal with which you and others have responded to that call awaken in our hearts the liveliest emo- tions and gratitude. It is beyond our province 'to follow this standard to the battle-field ; but we can and will follow with our prayers and blessings those who bear it, imploring Him who holds in his hands the destiny of nations to protect and pre- serve those who stand by thajr country's flag in its hour of peril ; and that he will speedily restore reason and loyalty to that rash and misguided people who have assailed it. Accept, for yourself and oflBcers, and your noble regiment of Zouaves my kind wishes. Makt Adelaide Griswold. Colonel Hawkins, in a voice slightly touched with emotion, thanked Mrs. Griswold for the present. It was an elegant one ; and as far as he was concerned, he promised never to surrender the banner except with his life. For his men he hazarded little in mak- ing a similar promise. He intended that the Stars and Stripes presented him on this beautiful day should come out of the clouds and storms of war witliout a disreputable blemish. The flag was then handed to the color-bearer, and exhibited to the soldiers. The whole design was ex- ecuted with considerable taste, and proved to be quite a costly affair. On the lance which surmounted the staff was a square plate of silver, upon which was neatly engraved the following inscription : 28 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: PKESEN'TED Mrs. Alma W, G^iswold TO THR NINTH*REGIMBNT NEW-YORK VOLUNTEERS, Juke 5th, 1S61. Ijexinston, April lOth, ITVQ. Baltimore, April 18tll, 1861. MEMORIA IN .ETERNA. After the conclusion of tlie ceremony, the regiment was marched down the avenue. When arrived oppo- site the dwelling of Mrs. "V^illiam B. Moffat, they were faced to it, where another standard awaited them. Colonel Hawkins was received in a cordial manner by the Rev. Dr. Wiley, of Christ Church. He made the presentation on behalf of the fair donor, and he spoke in a deep, impressive manner, calculated to touch the heart of every man within hearing. In reply. Colonel Hawkins made a polished and patriotic speech. He repeated his determination never to surrender the flag except with his life's blood ; and the entire regiment was again pledged to stand by it at any cost, and to bring it back imsullied by any taint of dishonor. Tiie regimental banner was given to the color- guard, and all who were sufficiently near scrutinized it closely. It was an elegant specimen of taste and material, being made of double silk, and six by eight feet in dimensions. Upon the centre field was the in- scription : NINTH REGIMENT NEW-YORK VOLUNTEERS. TOUJOl'RS PKET. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 29 The presentation being over, the "Ninth" was again pnt into column, and now proceeded down Fifth avenue to Broadway, Colonel Hawkins wishing to do so with as much dispatch as possible, for the purpose of not only embarking at the time desig- nated, but to avoid the bad efi'ect of keeping the public assembled on the avenues of the line of march many hours beyond the time of theit expected arrival. They were loudly cheered all along the route, but more especially when opposite the principal hotels, where the denser crowds had collected ; while at nearly every corner, from .Union Square to the Bat- tery, they received some unmistakable demonstrations of the favor in which they were held. The bugle and drum-corps seemed to attract con- siderable attention : when opposite Delmonico's, the buglers blasted fiercely the quick marching time, and the shrill notes reached far and wide down the side streets and alleys, and penetrating into the recesses of the counting-rooms, and the far extremities of the underground saloons, brought forth many who, at that moment, would not have known the Zouaves were coming. The march of the "Ninth" down Broadway was one of the grandest ovations of the kind ever wit- nessed in the metropolis. Notwithstanding the peo- ple had once been disappointed in a rain-storm, they rallied again and turned out in such numbers as the favorable aspect of the weather seemed to invite. We can not avoid saying, that the martial spirit the Zouaves exhibited, the firmness and uniformity of step, compactness of line, and the frequent changing of the manual were soldierly in the extreme. 30 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: The most reliable authority, and that which is best able to judge, has conceded, that in perfection of drill the regiment was then without a rival. When they had arrived at Pier Number Four, where they were to embark, such living masses of people had collected tliere, that the bayonet alone could force a passage through which the Zouaves might enter the inclosure. ITpon*the rear of the regiment the crowd pressed so closely that it was impossible to shut the gates for a while ; and this was only finally effected by the use of such threats from Major Kimball, as, if executed, would certainly have placed the Zouaves in their first bloody engagement, to say nothing of the considerable augmentation of the mortality report of the city. The steamship Marion, ordered for the reception of the regiment, lay alongside the wharf, and as the preliminaries of going aboard were not fully arranged, the men were allowed to rest. "When the order to "break ranks" was given, many rushed to the gates, as if to embrace the crowd, of whom many thought they might take a leave that would be final. Gate- bars could not separate them; walls of intervention only made them mount the higher. Friendly hands were thrust through the gate, and words were inter- changed for the last time upon earth. Fingers that wiped away the tears, were the next moment put for- w^ard with oranges or " creature comforts." Handker- chiefs, moistened with the dew of anticipated bereave- ment, bore their burdens of parting tokens to the " dear ones." " God bless you !" said a friend to a sergeant. The THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 31 latter murmured a parting, and then turned away, lest he should be guilty of the unsoldierly conduct of taking out a 'kerchief. Among numerous others a young lieutenant was observed as particularly affected. Friends crowded up to get in a last word, but every sweet blessing seemed to touch him like gall. lie burst away from prolonged grief with the remark that he must be near his command. The next moment he was seen lean- ing against a pile with his head down, and appeared to be getting the dust out of his eyes. But the melancholy of parting only existed in brief moments between the various excitements that pre- vailed. The regiment was ordered on board, and each company proceeded to the quarters that had been set apart for its occupation. The hawsers were cast loose, and the Marion moved slowly out into the stream. When a short distance from the wharf, Colo- nel Hawkins was lowered in a small boat and rowed to the dock. His object in going ashore was to secure the services of another vessel ; the one appropriated could accommodate only half of the regiment. In the mean time the Marion proceeded slowly down into the harbor, the Zouaves on deck waving their handkerchiefs in reply to the numerous white signals that fluttered on the docks. The first man who lost his life in the regiment was James Warren, of Company I, from Connecticut. He accidentally fell overboard while the steamer was under way, and all effort to save him proved unavail- ing. But an hour before a friendly voice had bid him a cheerful " God speed and safe return." Some 32 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: time after, Chaplain Conway collected a considerable sum of money through the liberality of the regiment, and forwarded it, with the earnest sympathies of every man, to his disconsolate widow. Many a sor- rowful cheek was laid upon the knapsack that night. The George Peabody arrived alongside, and five companies were transferred to it. Early in the morn- ing of the following day, anchor was weighed, and the steamers started, and on the morning of the 8th ar- rived at Fortress Monroe. The Colonel reported to the Commanding General, and not long after they were under way again, and in about an hour landed at the wharf, having reached the destination they set out for — Newports ISTews. They found the forces there, consisting chiefly of three months men, dili- gently employed in building the intrenchments that afterward so frightened the rebel General Magruder. The "Ninth" was marched out through the incomplete sally-port, and stacked arms in advance of the other regiments. Upon breaking ranks the first thing sought after was the " Old Virginia hoe-cake," which they procured easily enough with the glittering pieces of silver that quite captivated the negroes. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 33 Pai^ Third ; !^ewpotit$ 'Rews to i^aiteiias. AFATIGUE-PAKTY brought up the tents, and camp was pitched immediately in conformity with the prescribed regulations. When the labor was completed the men naturally allowed their reflections to take up tlie matter of diet. They concluded they were hungry, and that there was little or nothing to eat within their reach. The case was obscure, and they immediately saw the necessity of clearing it up without loss of time. Delay might prove fatal at supper-hour. At length provision arrived — about twenty pounds of fat pork, beside hard-tack, for each company ; twenty pounds for seventy men ! They never before learned division on so small a scale. But the pork was just what was needed: j;he digestive organs were rusty and required greasing : there was an overbalance of electricity that had accumulated during inactivity, and fat absorbs a great deal. But the deficiency was more apparent after it had disappeared than before, and unsatisfied parties began to cast about for more abundant supplies. Not long after, successful squads of Zouaves might be seen coming in from all direc- tions, bearing with them their trophies of sheep, geese, ducks, and hens. 34 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: The Verraonters circulated the most hideous re- ports of the danger the "Ninth" was. in, by pitch- ing camp so near the wood. The rebels would come in at night and slaughter them all in their tents ; they were expecting an attack every minute ; numbers were shot on picket already. But the Zouaves slept soundly that night, and upon awaking in the morn- ing they perceived that the sun arose in its usual place, though there was a rebellion in the land, and men were shot on guard. On Sunday, the 9th of June, a most beautiful sum- mer's day, the regiment struck tents and removed camp west of the breastworks and on a line with them — a position that had its rear protected by a steep and wooded hill, at the bottom of which was a swamp directly on the bank of the James Kiver. At night there was a "long-roll," after which the Zouaves slept on their arms until morning. The next day was extremely hot and sultry, and one most memorable in the annals of the rebellion ; for, aside from the fact that upon it was fought the first battle after the opening of the war, it was one of most disastrous defeat to the Union arms. Not that the Federals lost a great deal, but that the rebels gained so much. Colonel Hawkins received orders to take a detach- ment of his regiment and proceed to Little Bethel, to render what support was possible to the forces that had already been dispatched to that place for the pur- pose of dislodging the enemy and destroying his for- tifications. He received instructions to make his way to the scene of conflict as soon as possible, and report THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 35 to General Pierce, the officer in command ; and also to convey to the battle-field ambulances and medical stores. In accordance with the orders, Companies A, B, and G were hastily provided with rations and ammu- nition, and, commanded by Colonel Hawkins in per- son, started out on the road toward Bethel. The march there was a quiet one, with few excep- tions. While halting at a farm-house beside the road to rest a moment and fill canteens with cool water, a member of the regiment, having lost the cap from his piece, supposed the powder had all eked out, and wislied to ascertain if it required reloading. He put a fresh cap on and snapped it, and to his astonish- ment the musket discharged with a ringing report. The man knew his error in a moment, and attempted to excuse himself to the Colonel, who, of course, gave him a deservedly severe reprimand : " Is it possible a sergeant did that? You scarcely know enough to last you over Sunday." It certainly was a gross error in the face of the enemy when a tolerable caution was enforced. The regiment fell into line again, and awaited orders. The roads were very dry and parched, and clouds of dust rose from them and hung upon the air ; and the sun pouring down his rays of excessive heat, imparted a feverish throb to the pulse. The Zouaves were hurried forward with unusual haste, for their errand was an important one, and the severity of the march tested well their qualifications for that line of duty. Some time before reaching Ihe battle-field they re- 36 TUE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: ceived the intelligence that the Fourth Massachusetts, Fu-st Vermont, and the Fii-st, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Seventh New- York Volunteers had already en- gaged the rebels, and were unable to dislodge them from their strong position with the force they had. The sad misfortunes attending the expedition in re- gard to the two countersigns, the matter of the Union troops firing into each other, etc., are well understood. When arriving within a mile or so of the scene of action, the " ISTinth " met the First regiment return- ing, some of the men saying there was little use of going further, as the enemy was in a formidable place that could not be taken without plenty of artillery, and they had only fom* pieces, with three rounds left to each. It was now ascertained that the Federal forces were retreating from Bethel. Other troops passed by; but still the "Ninth" continued onward, and soon came up to the Fifth New- York, just before the latter turned off on the Hampden road. Their meeting was a touching scene, and on that day filled many hearts with deep emotion. Not only did some individuals who had knoAvn each other in the city, offer greeting and the exchange of experience that either had already met with, but all upon that occa- sion, where their sympathies were so united, seemed to stand in close acquaintance with each other. Some of the Fifth appeared still rife with the enthusiasm with which they set out ; while others were apparently so fatigued and worn out that they could scarcely drag themselves along — as differently affected by long marching and a severe repulse from a portion of the enemy's works they had captured, but were THEIR BATTLES A-ND MARCHES. 37 obliged to abandon, for the same reason that has caiised a like disaster before and since, and will again — want of proper support and generalship. Moreover, they were all hungry and thirsty ; and the "Ninth" generously placed the contents of haver- sack and canteen at their disposal ; and very thankful were the recipients for the favor. The liberality of Colonel Hawkins's men M'as not a little enhanced by the fact that they did not know how soon they should themselves need what they had given away. The retreating forces were in a deplorable con- dition, and it seemed as though they had endeavored to make themselves look as service worn and ridic- ulous as possible. A piece of artillery, bearing the body of that noble and honored martyr. Lieutenant Greble, was next to follow on the retreat, dragged slowly along by feeble men, who were so worn and weary they could scarcely keep hold of the rope. The "Ninth" was now ordei'ed to turn about and cover the rear of the retreating forces. The reason for this was apparent ; for had the rebels not been too much occupied in conducting their own retreat, but had sought to avail themselves of the advantages given them by misconduct on the part of the Federals rather than taken by their own valor, the retreating regiments must have suffered materially without this strong rear-guard. A rumor, which was set afloat and propelled rapidly by eager patrons, that the troops were being led around to the rear to surprise the enemy, contributed much to raise the drooping 3 38 THE HAWKIKS ZOUAVES: spirits of the forces^ But the disposition of the dif- ferent commands soon dispelled the error. Many of the troops were straggling through the country, and the duty of picking them up, preventing them from destroying private property, and conduct- ing them to their proper camps, was assigned to the " Ninth ;" and they at once, by devious circuits round about, touched at nearly every house, the Colonel en- tering and turning out the marauders, who were obliged to march in front or along with the Zouaves. They were also found along the roads upon either hand, in the various attitudes of comfortable exhaus- tion ; but were roused up every one, and forced along, some needing the quickening touch of the bayonet to sharpen their energies before they would move. These men being generally placed in front, this por- tion of the march of the " Ninth" was made but slowly. On the return, the balance of the regiment wns met, which fell into line. When not far from camp, and when the small white tents could be seen like a flock of sheep feeding upon the hill. Colonel Hawkins, coming up by the side of Company B, said, " Boys, how would you like a little double-quick?" Some did not take this as any thing more than a jest at first, but upon one of the Zouaves making the remark that lie was just getting supijle for something of that sort, the Colonel laughed, gave the order, and soon the "Ninth" started on, tramp, tramp, tramp, going into camp in splendid style, thougli they were all so dusty they could scarcely recognize each other. While in line, before being dismissed, Colonel THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 39 Hawkins expressed himself greatly pleased with the march they had made. He had ascertained by ac- curate reckoning that the distance passed over was twenty four (Virginia !) miles, and the time employed was six hours. It is due to General Butler to say that he was in no way blamable for the failure of this enterprise. Had his instructions been carried out, success would have crowned the iindertaldng. On the 29th of June, Captain Graham obtained permission to take his company out on a scouting ex- pedition. The men were very anxious to gain a sight of the enemy, whom they had as yet scarcely come in contact with, and as it was known that frequently the rebels, in small marauding bands, prowled about the country approximate to the Union lines, the com- pany pushed forward with the determination of mak- ing a closer acquaintance with some of them ; though with that caution properly belonging to the soldier, they were not, we presume, over desirous of meeting with a party of superior numbers. They threw out an advanced-guard, and after pro- ceeding in a tortuous manner, not a great way from the outer picket-line they perceived distinct traces of the enemy's having approached not long since by the way they were going. Evidences were seen in sev- eral places that the rebels mnst have been in consid- erable force ; and Company A, not being too eager to throw themselves upon a force greater than them- selves, took all the precaution the nature of the ground permitted, or the business of the day suggest- ed. They had gone some distance on the road beyond 40 THE HAWKIXS ZOUAVES: Baker Lee's, when they ascertained that the Lonis- iana "Wild-Cats" were not far oflF; that they had approached the picket of ISTewports News, but were now retiring in haste, for some reason best known to themselves. Company A soon after saw large num- bers of them, but both parties were shy. The rear- guard, however, succeeded in capturing two of the "Wild-Cats," who were taken to camp, and subse- quently confined at Fortress Monroe. Captain Gra- ham, not being successful in finding a force with which he might reasonably offer combat, returned again to Camp Butler. The Fourth of July was a dull day in camp. But Colonel Hawkins sent out a detachment of twenty- five men from Company F, under command of Cap- tain Hammill, for the purpose of reconnoitering some ground supposed to be infested by the rebels. They left camp at night, and after considerable nocturnal perambulations, found themselves near daybreak of the morning of the fifth about seven miles up the James lliver. They here encamped for the object of resting and breaking their fast, intending afterward to proceed to the enemy's position to ascertain his strength and intentions. They now learned, how- ever, that they were nearer the object of their search than they at the time anticipated ; for upon again starting forward, they came upon a party of about seventy-five rebels not more than a hundred yards distant, coming down the road, dragging with them two six-pounders. Captain Hammill posted his men in the low pine shrub upon the side of the road, and when the enemy had approached sufficiently near THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 41 to render musketry sure and effective, the Captain opened a deadly lire ; when the leader of the rebels cried out, " Washington ! Washington ! " and asked who Ihey were. A member of Company F made some hasty reply, when the enemy took to the woods, wheeling about their guns and hauling them away as if afraid of their capture. The Zouaves kept up a continual fire for some minutes, until they learned that a party of cavalry with the rebels were making a circuit to cut them off. They then retired through a portion of the woods too intricate for the maneuver of cavalry. The enemy were re-forming to come upon them again, when Captain Hammill ordered a retreat, thinking it but rashness to attempt to stand against such odds ; for he could not the second time have the advantage of making a surprise, by which he had un- doubtedly at the start saved his entire command from capture by a superior force. The Captain succeeded in gaining the intelligence that the rebels had lost in the engagement Colonel Dreux, of Louisiana, a lieutenant and one private killed, and seven others wounded. Company F did not lose a man, as the enemy's fire was very slight and ill-directed, in conse- quence of the concealed position of the Zouaves and his own confusion. The detachment returned to Camp Butler in haste, and a verbal report of the affair was speedily given the commandant of the post. Colonel Phelps resolved to give the rebels a severe thrashing, if they could be caught. For this purpose he selected from among his command Lieut.-Colonel Betts, with portions of some companies of the "Ninth," a force about three hundred strong, ac- 42 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: companied by a detachment of the First Vermont, which immediately started out in pursuit of the en- emy, anticipatuig a collision with him near the spot whei'e the skirmish of early morning occurred. The command hugged the bank of the James Eiver for some distance, but when in the vicinity of the rebel Captain Jones's dwelling, struck the main road. They now came upon the ground where the recent action had taken place, and after ascertaining that the enemy had wheeled about their artillery (the track of which was plainly visible, as well as the bloody indications of the fight) and retreated, taking the killed and wounded with them, Lieut.-Colonel Betts urged a vigorous pursuit, in the hope of yet overtaking them. They had proceeded about eight miles, wheij, at the fork of the road ahead might be seen the rebel vi- dettes. Their horses were ready saddled and tied to the saplings near. The men occupied a small hut commanding a view of three roads. When they saw the long column of dust rising from the force ap- proaching them, they sprang upon their horees and rode swiftly in retreat toward their camp. Lieut.- Colonel Betts, however, was determined in the pur- suit, and pushed his column ahead. Upon arriving at the picket-hut, an examination for any clue to the previous skirmish was made in and around that neigh- borhood. The " JSTinth " wrote " Hawkins's Zouaves " upon every available spot with broad pieces of chalk, and invited the rebel reader to make a call at New- ports News, and bring Magruder along. Captain Barnett, with a squad from his company, searched a THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 43 house, but failed to find the object of their visit. The column again started forward, until arriving at a cool and shady spot v?here the road descends, and then passes through a small, clear brook, making an ascent on the opposite side.* A detachment was sent forward, which in a short time returned, stating that they had come upon a house not far from the hill where it was supposed the enemy were encamped in force. The house had been deserted and since oc- cupied as a hospital. They found considerable ev- idence that the party they were in pursuit of had taken their wounded there for attendance. After some further reconnoissance, Lieut. -Colonel Betts was convinced that it would be folly to advance further with the little band he had, and therefore turned his troops about and returned to Newports News. Colonel Phelps — since Brigadier General — whose name has, in some respects, been unfortunate in its association with the grandest and most humane epi- sode that ever accompanied any war, commanded the post of Newports News, and established his head- quarters upon the high bank of the James, between the battery of columbiads and the landing, and from which position a full view of the river was obtained of all the points in the direction of the enemy. If a member of the " Ninth " was asked what he thought of General Phelps, he would most probably reply after this sort: "He is a rigid disciplinarian, a thor- ough military scholar, fearless before the enemy, * While at this place a single rifle-ball came from the enemy, but did no harm, passing over the heads of the men. 44 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: prompt and vigilant, with a manner filled with dry, often blunt, humorous sarcasm — a queer old-man, lut I like him." He always endeavors to avoid enter- taining too much confidence in very young people ; hence, when the "Hawkins Zouaves" arrived at the place, and they being mostly men of eighteen and twenty-five years, he attached to them the prejudiced appellation of " the school-boys." He was not long in ascertaining that the name he had given was pre- mature, for their soldierly conduct soon dispelled any unfavorable impressions he may have formed of them; and he readily retracted what had been uttered in haste, so far as to substitute the more appropriate appellation of " Little Zouaves." He M'as quite charmed with the celerity of their movements on brigade drill, and frequently when he wished to urge improvements among the other regi- ments, he woiild point out the "Little Zouaves" as examples worthy of emulation. While it was evident to all that his admiration for them was daily on the increase, no one conld attach the error of partiality to him ; for did any breach of discipline chance to occur, they were the more severely censured, on the principle that the occasional faults of the good are more glaring and tempting to rebuke than the daily faults of the bad. And though it has been said that they were the recipients of chastisement when they did not deserve it, it may also be remarked that it is just as likely they may have escaped the same when it should have been given. It was rumored about camp that Colonel Phelps had received a Brigadier General's commission, and THEIR BATTLES AIJD MARCHES. 45 therefore lie was sometimes called " General " by those who had occasion to speak to him. We remem- ber one day a soldier went to his quarters to get his signatui% to a " pass," and without thought gave him a title of higher rank than he held. As he was sign- ing the paper he said : " They call me ' General,' but I don't know where they get it from. I haven't seen the documents yet." The brigade hospital was approximate to the Colo- nel's quarters,, and one day a patient, while indulging in the fresh air of a sunny morning opposite the- head- quarters, thought he discovered, in a speck upon the river far distant, one of the enemy's gun-boats, and with a vigilant pride immediately conveyed the intel- ligence to Colonel Phelps, who came out of his room to look at it. To the chagrin of the patient he did not use his glass, but gave a careless gaze for only a moment. "lie don't seem to care much about it after my hurrying to tell him," thought the Zouave. The commandant turned about slowly, and in his usual way asked : " Did you come out of the hospi- tal i " " Yes, sir," with a confident air. " / thought so" and went back to his room. It then occurred to the soldier that it was only the light-house up near Godwin's Point. On the 8th of July, thirty men of Company A, under the charge of Captain Graham, while on a scouting expedition, again met the enemy. Marching rapidly in the direction of Bethel, and just before reaching that place, they came suddenly upon a rebel regiment, which had established a temporary camp in that vicinity. The enemy flew about, beat the long- 46 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: roll, fell into line-of-battle, and as Company A stood for a moment looking at them, they performed many other warlike demonstrations. Had they remained quiet, and allowed the little force of Union troops to advance further upon them, they could undoubted- ly have sent them to Eichmond. But Captain Gra- ham immediately saw how near he was to the trap, and called upon Horn, the bugler, to sound the "rally on the reserve," which, however, lay back many miles to camp. The company left that vicinity on the double-quick, leaving the enemy in fearful anticipa- tion, awaiting the shock they supposed the "reserve" Avould soon give them. The camp of the "Ninth" now presented a fine example of the neatness and order that usually pre- vailed throughout the regiment, and was laid out with as strict adherence to the "regulations" as the character of the ground would permit. Arbors of pine brush were erected over every tent, in a line on the company street, to' neutralize the torrid effects of the burning sun. From a distance the whole bore the appearance of a picturesque grove. But a close observation revealed the completeness of its construc- tion, and its adaptation to the comforts which the existing improvements were designed to promote. " Blind ditches " were dug to lead off the superfluous water, and the company streets were nicely graded, so as to throw the contents of a heavy raii^ into the drain. Most of the tents had flooring, and the arbors contained stools, benches, and tables, made by the Zouaves, rude but serviceable. Books and domestic utensils abounded,' which were taken from houses in THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 47 the vicinity, or rather saved from destruction, and of wliicli a Hst was in the possession of the post-com- mandant. An order was afterward issued that noth- ing of the kind for the future should be brought into camp. But the vigilance of the guard was sometimes outwitted. In the latter part of June, Captain Barnett and a squad of men from his company left camp on a for- aging expedition. When the advance-guard of the party, consisting i f Jones and Rassiga, had arrived at the piece of wood that begins at the road turning off to Baker Lee's, they suddenly espied a horseman, who was in the act of issuing from the wood in a narrow and crooked by-path, but who, upon seeing the near approach of an armed foe, hastily wheeled about with the intention of making his escape. Seeing Eassiga level his piece at him, he stopped and faced him, at the same time crying out : '" For God's sake don't shoot a friend ! " "Whereupon JRassiga lowered his musket, and the two were about advancing upon the horseman, when he drew his revolver, fired several shots at them, and wheeling about once more endeav- ored to make off. He was fired at, and though Jones was accounted a good shot, the bullets did not take perceptible effect. It is presumed that his horse did not make the progress through the dense under- brush that his fears deemed requisite for the occasion, and he therefore abandoned him to the enemy, in order the more quickly to elude their pursuit, in which he finally succeeded, Captain Barnett and his party bringing the animal off safe and sound. The search which was afterward instituted for the capture 48 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVKS : of the master terminated fruitlessly. The brute was in fine condition, fully accoutered, with the rider's over-coat rolled. At a stibsequent period there appeared at the outer picket of the post, a flag of truce for the transaction of some unimportant business between the lines. Major Kimball and several others from the regiment were granted th« privilege of conferring with the agents of the rebels. One of the party bearing the truce inquired : ." Didn't some men belonging to the Zouave regi- ment catch a horse out beyond the line last month ? " " Yes, a splendid animal." " A splendid hoss, eh ? I reckon he warn't. He was mine. I've rid him for six year — he's all run down like an old clock that an't got any spring. He warn't much loss to me. I would have given liim away, but nob9dy'd have him. Didn't I come it over them fellows, and git away from 'em slick, though ? My spindles made right smart time I reckon. I was out beyond the saw-mill, too, when a force of you fellows came over towards Warwick. You didn't see me, nor didn't catch nobody, I reckon. When the regiment halted, and was resting there by the little Eun, I was up in a tree near by, and heard and saw a good deal. A shot was fired, but hurt nobody. I know the fellow who fired that shot." There have been far too many picket incidents of the saine character during the war. The period which now followed was one of com- parative -tranquillity, scarcely desjred by the reo-i- THEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES : 49 ment, and before its end was reached became truly irksome. About this time a disaifection began to show itself among some of the officers, the origin of which is un- doubtedly traced back to the disappointment of one or two, who had failed in their ambitious hopes. A con- spiracy, whose sole strength lay in malice and envj', gradually spread itself, and there were led into it many innocent men, who entirely misunderstood the pur- poses of those who got it up, or the final result it was intended to accomplish. Some of the men thought themselves ill-treated in many respects, and they were assured that their wrongs all emanated from the com- mandant of the regiment, who was now regarded by them with a distrustful eye. Weeks passed on, and camp was removed inside the intrenchments. Some contention now arose about the "right of the liiie." It was balloted for, and by this means the senior Captain lost liis position in line ; and from this time the conspiracy assumed a more serious character. In the mean time the men had not been quieted. They found fault with every thing, and were informed that it all was simply a result of incompetency on the part of the Colonel to manage the affairs of the regiment. A great many possessed too much good sense to meddle at all with the affair,, and numbers of those who did, scarcely knew what they were about. But some of the men had become so deeply involved in the movement, that, had it progressed much further in that direction, undoubtedly it would have resulted in open mutiny. But a new feature was at this time contributed to the 50 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: scheme. The rations were either too fat or too lean ; they needed clothing badly ; they had as yet received none but State pay ; and there was a most decided misunderstanding in regard to the period of service for which they were sworn in. Summing up their grievances, they came to the conclusion that they were a destitute, forsaken, and abused body of men. • It was afterwai'd known that this was principally the cause of the dissatisfaction continuing and re- sulting as it did, and not their dAslike to the Colonel, either as a soldier or gentleman.^ Some of their complaints were undoubtedly well founded, but the manner in which they were presented was in conflict with military law and discipline ; and as the men still persisted in the question of their dif- ficulties, and were too impatient to await a proper settlement, Colonel Hawkins put a check upon the whole thing by placing one entire company under arrest, including its oflScers and several others. General Butler now made his appearance, and the regiment was ordered out on the field to receive him. He then addressed them in a very pleasant manner, acknowledging that their grievances were sufficient to test the patience of men more sober-minded than they; but still he would reprimand them for the course they had pursued to have them redressed. He fixed the fact in their minds that they were in the service for two years, which, to say the least, removed all doubts in regard to that source of dispute. He regretted that their wardrobe was so scanty ; there * Note B in Appendix. THEIR BATTLES AND MABCHES. 51 was culpable neglect somewhere; he would investi- gate, and send them a supply. He was sorry tlicy had not recei\ed their pay. He would send the paymas- ter up in a few days, and they should have plenty of silver. The men were marched back to then- quarters with much improved notions about " redress." Had a cor- rect understanding been earlier arrived at, even this trifling blight would never liave been attached to the fair reputation of the "Ninth." Thus ended the farce which might have been attended with more serious results had it been under the control of a less intelligent body of men. Those who originated this scheme to overthrow the character of the regiment were surprised to lind that they had adopted an unpleasant method of establish- ing a correct understanding between the men and their commander, for from this time Colonel Haw- kins's populai'ity with his men rapidly increased. It is well known how General Butler kept his word. The paymaster came up in a few days and settled their accounts; and shortly after an abund- ance of clothing was received. About the middle of August General Butler was organizing an expedition, the purpose of which was at that time little known. Having certain know- led o^e that the rebels had erected forts at Hatteras Inlet, not only t6-«^pture all imsuspecting vessels which, through "ignorance of the exact position of affairs in which the country stood, sailed for the inlet, as unsuspecting as a fly sails into a web, but also to aid and protect the privateers of the great so-called con- 52 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: federate navy, and to make it a sort of rendezvous for the reception of prizes — the General resolved to molest them in their presumptuous avocation. He could not think of getting up an expedition without having his favorite regiment represented in it, and accordingly he sent orders up to Colonel Hawkins to get three companies of the Zouaves in readiness to join him. In compliance with the order, Companies G, H, and C were selected. In haste they completed all the ar- rangements for moving. While they were being ra- tioned, the destination of the expedition was the source of much conjecture. But they were in the highest glee at the prospect of a change from camp, when, on the morning 'of August 20th, they took their departure from Camp Butler, and embarked on the steamer Adelaide, in which vessel they accompanied the fleet, which was composed also of the vessels of war "Wabash, Minne- sota, Harriet Lane, Cumberland, Pawnee, Monticello, and Susquehanna, and the George Peabody, the lat- ter having five hundred men ot the Twentieth New- Tork on board. The expedition arrived off Hatteras before noon of the 27th, where they lay to until the following morn- ing. Before daybreak, however. Captain Jardine, with liis company, (G,) got ready to land just behind the lai-ge sand-hills about two miles up the beach. It was a dangerous feat to perform — springing out of the Doats and wading through the heavy, rolling surf. There was great fear that many lives would be lost ; but they all assisted one another, and after consider- THKIB BATTLES AKD MARCHES. 53 able, almost superlinman effort, they succeeded in getting safely on the land. A few of the other troops were landed in the same manner, when it was de- clared impossible to debark any more. During the landing of the troops the Harriet Lane, Monticello, and Pawnee were engaged in throwing a continual stream of shell into the low shrub upon the Pamlico shore, to drive out the rebels there, and to prevent them from dislodging the force that had landed. From the fleet the sight was as sublime as it was novel to most of the soldiery. The bright bivouac fires of Company G could be seen, partly hidden by the rising knolls of sand. It had been expected that a much larger force of troops would be thrown ashore ; but as so few were there, great anxiety was manifested by the "Ninth" lest their gallant Company G should be surprised and overpowered by the enemy. The rebels were either ignorant of their diminutive numbers, or they already considered their own case too hopeless to strive for. The latter may be inferred from their surrender the following day. The rebels having thus been summarily disposed of, the Union troops took formal possession of their works. 54 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Part Fourth : l^atte»ia$ to Koanohe. IN virtue of the rank of commission, Colonel Hawkins assumed command of the landed forces at Hatteras, leaving the fleet on the 30th day of August, and taking up his headquarters at Fort Clark for that purpose. Colonel Max Weber, of the Twen- tieth New- York Volunteers, was placed in command of Fort Hatteras, the boundary line of his authority extending across the island to within two hundred yards of the fort first surrendered. We give below a communication from Colonel Hawkins to Major-General Wool, which contains some valuable suggestions in regard to the strategic points of Pamlico Sound. FoKT Clark, Hatteras Inlet, Sept. 6, 1861. Major-Geneeal John E. Wool, Commanding Department of Virginia, Fortress Monroe, Va. : General : On the .SOth day of August I landed from the fleet and took command of Fort Clark, where I still remain with the companies which 1 brought with me from Newports News. During the afternoon of the 80th ult., a delegation on behalf of the citizens of this island waited on me, and placed in my hands a paper, a ccJpy of which is herewith inclosed, and marked "A," and is as follows : THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 55 "To THE Commander of the Federal Forces at Hatteras Inlet : "Dear Sib: We, the citizens of Cape Hatteras, do ask of your honor that you will allow us to return to our homes and property, and protect us in the same as neutral citizens, as we have never taken up arms against your Government, nor has it been our wish to do so. We did not help, by our votes, to get North-Carolina out of the Union. Believing that your clemency will not allow you to treat us as rebels, who have always been loyal citizens, we do earnestly request, for the sake of our women and children, that you will comply with our wishes, as we seek protection from your honor. " Yours very respectfully, " CiTizESS OF Hatteras." In answer to this communication I requested that as many citizens as could might meet me the next day, for the pur- pose of arranging terms by which they would be permitted to remain here. Agreeably to the request, about thirty men came to see me. The terms were contained in an oath, a copy of which is here transmitted, and marked "B," as follows : " State of North-Carolina, " Hyde County. " We, the undersigned, do solemnly swear that we will bear true allegiance to the United States ; that we will not take up arms against said Government, or hold any communications with its enemies, or aid or comfort its enemies in any way whatever ; that we will give to tlie coinmander of Fort Clark any inform- ation we may obtain or receive of the approach of the enemy ; and in case we are called upon, we will assist the commandant of said fort in his defense thereof against any and all of the enemies of the United States ; and we will always, under any and in all circumstances, support the Conttitution of the United States." 56 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: They concurred in the terms. On my part, I have agreed verbally to give them all the neces- sary protection against the vigilance committees, which infest all parts of the State, (and which are organized for the purpose of suppressing Union sentiment, and pressing young men into the service of the Confederate army,) and to afford them any other protection necessary. Two hundred and fifty have already taken the oath, and they are still coming in. Suggestions. 1st. Roanoke Island, which commands the Croatan channel, between Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds, shovld he occupied at once. It is now held by the rebels. They have a battery com- pleted at the upper end of the island, and another in course of erection at the southern extremity. 2d. A small force should be stationed at Beacon Island, which is in the mouth of the Ocracolie Inlet, and commands it. 3d. Two or three light-draft vessels should be Stationed be- tween the mouths of the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers. This would shut out all commerce with New-Berne and Washington, both of which places have long been entree-ports for privateers. 4th. There should be at least eight light-draft gunboats in Pamlico Sound. 5th. Beaufort should be occupied as soon as possible. All of these matters should he attended to immediately. Seven thousand men, judiciously placed upon the soil of North- Caro- lina, would draw, within the next three weeJcs, twenty thousand Confederate troops from the State of Virginia. I wish, if you agree with me, and deem it consistent with your duty, that you would impress upon the Government the importance and necessity of immediate action in this department. Most faithfully your humble servant. Rush C. Hawkins, Col. Ninth N. Y. V., Commanding Fort Clark. * All analysis of the wisdom eiubodied in these sug- THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 57 gestions would be superfluous here, for a portion of it has already become triumphant history, and what has not been acted upon is still apparent. We know how Koanokq, JSTew-Berne, and Plymouth had been occu- pied ; and we can yet realize the immense advantage to the Union cause which would have accrued from complete control of the coast land and inner waters of Nortji-Carolina. There would have been no Weldon for the rebels. Richmond would have failed to play the nightmare in ISTortbern homes. Norfolk would not have been maintained so long. In a succeeding report, Colonel Hawkins repeats the same ideas in regard to the immediate occupation of Pamlico Sound and its strategic points. He says : " I still adhere to the suggestions of my former re- port, and would most respectfully urge the importr ance of immediately occupying HoanoJce and Beacon Islands." The two islands mentioned were being fortified by the rebels, and before many weeks the position would be so strong that a very heavy force would be re- quired to dislodge them. At a later date we learn that Beacon Island was to be abandoned, and its guns and munition removed to other places. But the transfer of the war material was interfered with by the commandant of Ilatteras, as is evident in a re- port to General "Wool, dated Sept. 19th : " On the morning of the 16th inst., an expedition, consisting in part of the Union Coast Guard, under charge of Lieutenants Kowe and Patten, and a detachpient from the crew of steamer Pawnee, under charge of Lieuten- ant Maxwell, U. S. N., the whole commanded by Lieu- 58 THE HAWKIXS ZOUAVES: tenant Eastman of the Pawnee, embarked on board the steamer Fanny and one of the launches belonging to the former, and proceeded immediately to Beacon Island, where they foiiud a large battery, mounting twenty two guns, four of which had been taken away the day previous to New-Berne on steamer Washing- ton. The remaining guns were all totally destroyed, the bombproofs demolished , and the woodwork of the battery, together with a large pile of lumber, was all burned. A light-ship, towed from its moorings by the Tebtels, was also destroyed by fire. The expedition returned from complete success, bringing with them some eighty shells from the battery." The force at Newports News had become materially reduced, and all interest attached to the place seemed to lag behind the wishes of the garrison. Although the greater portion of the " Ninth" was still there, and had the satisfaction of cheering for the success of the expedition in which they were represented, yet their desire to leave the place. increased. They possi- bly might have been contented, had their Colonel re- mained with them. As if anticipating their wishes, an order came to Lieut. -Colonel Betts to proceed to Flat- teras with five more companies, and join the portion of the " Ninth " at that place. Accordingly, they leftNewports News on September 10th, leaving Major Kimball at Camp Butler, in command of the two remaining companies, B and K. Lieut.-Colonel Betts with his command landed at Hatteras on Septeinber 11th, and by direction of Col- onel Hawkins proceeded up the island about two miles, and established a camp on the shore of Pamlico THEIR BAITLES AND MARCHES. 59 Sound, which -vvas named CamiJ 'Wool. Pickets were thrown out a few miles above that place, being the outpost of Hatteras, to protect the force below against any body of the enemy that might come down to effect a landing between Camp Wool and Trent ; for intelligence was received that the rebel force on Koa- noke Island was being daily increased, and steamers and barges sent there for a purpose too definite to render conclusions difficult. It seemed now very probable that a battle on Hatteras would shortly take place, and Colonel Hawkins became deeply reim- pressed with the necessity of " immediate action in that department." But his counselings and warn- ings were either unheeded or put off too long. It became now the part of prudence to fix a camp at Chicoiiiocomico, and the seven companies of the Twentieth Indiana at Fort Clark were dispatched to the upper end of the Island for that purpose, which we shall soon see was a wise one, notwithstanding the " American Conflict " has no knowledge of the " ex- cuse offered for this dangerous division of his forces."* The gunboat Fanny, employed in running between Fort Hatteras and Chicomocomico, transporting the quartermaster and commissary stores, was captured when about thirty-six miles above Hatteras Inlet. She was in shallow M'ater about four miles off that part of the shore where the camp was, and under the direction of Sergeant-Major Peacock a detail of the Zouaves were unloading her cargo in boats plying * No "excuse" was ever offered, and tbe "Couflict" was wise in not publishing one. 60 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES between the vessel and the island, when three rebel steamers, the Coffee, Windslow, and Juanalauski, made their appearance, rapidly coming down upon her in such a way as to completely hem her in. No effort was made to destroy the cargo or vessel, or to prepare for defense, and the Fanny surrendered with all on board, including Sergeant-Major Peacock,* with nine men of the " Ninth" New- York, and twenty men of the Twentieth Indiana; also all the new over- coats (jf the latter regimen t. The captain of the Fanny had, some time previous, been arrested and lodged in Fortress Monroe for refusing to take the oath of al- legiance, and the manner in which the vessel was sur- rendered left no doubt that it was a conspired navy freak on his part. This seemed a prelude to the dis- aster which soon followed. At daybreak, on the ith of October, the enemy was first seen approaching in a direct line for the Chico- mocomico shore. They appeared like a few specks upon the water, were closely watched, and in a short time their vessels could be plainly made out, laden with troops, and coming down upon the camp of- the Indiana regiment. Colonel Brown made what little preparation occurred to him ; but the rebels came upon him hastily, and he retreated more hastily. It is true that the enemy was landing a force below to cut off his retreat, and, so far, they should have been met ; but had Colonel Hawkins's plan of defense been carried out, the affair would not have terminated so disastrously as it did. The result, as anticipated, * See Note C, Appendix. THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 61 should an attack be made, was to have placed the entire landed force of the enemy in the situation of captives. At the first stage of alarm, a loyal native rode quickly down to Camp "Wool, and informed Colonel Hawkins of the condition of aflfairs, who sent Major Jardine witla dispatches of instructions to Colonel Brown. The Major was not long in making the dis- tance, and he found the force there already in a de- moralized condition. A moment after receiving intelligence of the at- tack, Colonel Hawkins, after dispatching a messen- ger of alarm to the commandant of the naval force, immediately left Camp "Wool with eight companies of the " Ninth," and marched to the support of Colo- nel Brown. It was a forced march, and the severest one the regiment had, up to that time, undertaken — one mile on the loose sand being fully equivalent to two on firmer ground. They arrived at Hatteras Light during the night, and bivouacked till dawn of the following day, when they covered the retreat of the Indiana men, who were in a very demoralized condition, with the natives of both sexes and all ages clinging to them for protection. The rebels did not show fight upon the approach of the " Ninth," not- withstanding the Third Georgia regiment, which was there, had expressed itself as very desirous of a close contact with the " Ked-heads." It will be seen that they did have that pleasure on more than one occa- sion afterward. Companies B and K, still remaining at Newports 4 62 THE HAWKINS ZOUATES : News, under Major Kimball, were now ordered to join the regiment at Hatteras, and accordingly they made ready ; and when all the stores and luggage were on board the S. K. Spaulding, they were march- ed to the General's headquarters to bid him farewell. Although at different times previous he had been de- prived of portions of the regiment he loved so well, yet he was consoled by the companies left behind ; but now the last of the " Little Zouaves " had ar- ranged themselves before his quarters to say good-by. Oh ! how vividly is' the picture of that scene recalled to the minds of those who so tearfully participated in it ! No words can fully express the regret with which General Phelps parted from those two com- panies which had been so kindly associated with him since they entered the service. He endeavored to speak to them ; he tried to tell them of the first im- pressions they made on his mind ; how he received them as schoolboys, and that he now parted from them with the affectionate regard and regret of a pa- ternal teacher ; but his heart seemed to come up in his throat, and to stop the words, and it was in vain that they tried to come out. He could not make a speech — he broke down ; and although he was not seen to take out his handkerchief, yet we will not be responsible for what he did when alone in his quar- ters a moment after. But the cheers which were so heartily given came to his relief. The Spaulding re- ceived the last of her freight and pushed from the dock. The next morning the companies disembarked at Fort Hatteras, and began their march for Camp Wool. A Zouave writes : THEIR BATTLES AKD MAECHES. 63 "Sand, sand, Hatteras sand I We understood no marching would have to be done, and so we had loaded our knapsacks very heavily. We soon began to sink under them when we had gone but one mile over the loose sand, into which we sank deep- ly at every step, and our case was aggravated still more deeply from the fact that we had little prospect of any thing to eat or drink. .... In the tent the following morning a messmate found his head half-buried in sand. Sand everywhere — in your hair, in your shoes, sifts through your clothes, in your eyes and nose, between your teeth, fingers and toes, in your coffee and your hose, in your plate, in your knapsack and ink-bottle. 1 am disgusted with Hatteras — it must be the sand-bank of creation.'' A great deal, both true and false, has been said of the " Barnard affair," (as it was called,) and we deem it due to all parties concerned to give a succinct but impartial statement of the facts. On the Ist of August, 1861, the First Eegiment New-York Volunteers, stationed at Camp Butler, ISTewports News, received their regular pay, and on the night following the men of Company K, having imbibed an indiscreet portion of the elevating bev- erage, became very noisy and troublesome, and Cap- tain Barnard came from his tent, ordering them to cease their clamor ; and they choosing to make all the more, he drew a pistol and shot one man through the shoulder, from the effects of which he nearly re- covered after a long confinement. Captain Barnard immediately saw the crime his temper had been guilty of, and thought it prudent to vacate the scene of excitement, which he did by seek- ing refuge in the General's quarters, where he re- mained to save his life, for a number of the wounded 64 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: man's comrades had loaded their muskets and were searching the camp for him. He a short time subsequent received a transfer to the Ninth New- York, and when arrived at the head- quarters of the regiment to report for duty, Colonel Hawkins would not recognize his commission, but sent him back to General Wool. He arrived at Hat- teras a second time, when General Mansfield had been succeeded in command of the post by General Williams, who, in Special Orders No. 6, dated Oct. 22d, 1861, ordered the transferred Captain to again report to Colonel Hawkins for duty. But it is well known that the lattOT would never consent to give him the least shadow of a command in any company of the " Ninth," and having forcible reasons, he was neither mysterious nor fearful in the position he assumed in resisting the authority of the Governor. The "Regulations" are explicit on this subject, and give to the War Department alone the power of transferring men from one regiment to another. The Colonel, therefore, saw at once that Governor Morgan transcended the power of his office in trying to force this disagreeable and disreputable man upon his regi- ment. Colonel Hawkins was polite, but emphatic, in giving all to understand that the "Ninth New- York Volunteers was not composed of released occu- pants from the Alms-house or Penitentiary, nor of any other set of vagabonds." But there were also other valid reasons why he would not assign Barnard to a command in the regiment. He felt that the recog- nition in office of a man who had flagrantly violated the first principles of humanity would be " a manifest THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 65 injury to the service," and that there was but one course to be pursued. Consequently, upon a further culmination of the matter, General Williams issued an order placing him under arrest for refusing to comply with the Special Orders No. 5. Under date of October 31st, Colonel Hawkins is ordered to report to Major-General Wool, at depart- ment headquarters, for trial, which he obeyed on the the departure of the first steamer for Fortress Monroe, ^hen the Colonel took his leave the men gathered around him upon the beach and dock, manifesting an unusual degree of love and good-will, an evidence that he was fast being reinstated in those associations of mutual confidence and esteem which he formerly enjoyed, but which had never gained such ascendency over the men as at the present time. He addressed the men briefly. If he was success- ful in the trial, he would return to them and take them from Hatteras ; if he should fail, he would never return ; but in that event commended them to be faithful to a fiitui-e commander. But he assured them no one would love them or care for them as he had. He seated himself in the boat, and as he was rowed from the shore, waved his fez in reply to the long, loud cheers of the men. The band discoursed an affecting air, and many turned away to conceal the tear that flowed down the cheek, while others eagerly watched the boat until it was a mere speck upon the water. Colonel Hawkins was received by General Wool with marked cordiality ; and after the circumstances which brought him there were fully inquired into, 66 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: the General dismissed him with an entire approval of the position he had taken, and sent hina with dis- patches to the President; in a brief interview Mr. Lincoln frankly admitted that his view of the " Bar- nard affair" was a correct one, and that no other should be recognized. During the temporary absence of Colonel Hawkins, Lieut.-Colonel Betts assigned Captain Leon Barnard to Company I. But the Captain soon learned that the assumption of the. command brought him in con- tact with more difficulty than he had probably antici- pated. Many little incidents were constantly occur- ring to remind him of the disagreeable nature of the position he was attempting to hold, until after two very long days of inexorable vexation he was abso- lutely compelled to leave the regiment. He was transferred to the Third New- York Volunteers. Shortly after, the men were gladdened with the return of their Colonel, who took them by the hand as a brother. He staid only a few hours, and then went to Washington. He was working faithfully for the regiment, and the men knew it. On the last day of October a terrific storm arose upon the whole coast of the Carolinas, being the most violent among the treacherous shoals of Hatteras, and more especially upon the famous Diamond Eeef. Sergeant Glinchy and two men of the " Ninth " were lost in a small boat; and the "Hut Picket" of twelve men, under command of Sergeant W , with the assistance of Captain Stowe, a native, barely escaped from their perilous situation. Duncan's creek, wliich they had crossed in the morning, had become so THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 67 swollen that their communication with the camp was almost entirely cut off. In one hour more their es- cape would have been a miracle, for "Bald Beach" was completely ovei"flowed by the sea washing into the sound. During the months of November, December, and January the various companies of the regiment moved and removed their camps quite frequently, and finally settled down in their original positions, just previous to their departure from Hatteras. On the 13th day of January the S. K Spaulding again arrived at Hatteras with Colonel Hawkins, fol- lowed by numerous vessels of the Burnside Expedi- tion. Major Kimball was drilling a battalion of the regiment upon "Bald Beach," when the Colonel anived on the ground accompanied by General Burnside and a portion of his staff. " Now, boys," said the Major, " three cheers," and three times three were given heartily, after which the expres- sions of joy exhibited by the men at the return of their Colonel knew no bounds. In their sudden hap- piness they saw a vision of relief from the " durance vile" of Hatteras, which the treatment received from the Commanding General, who employed the troops in futile work upon useless fortifications, had rendered untenable with any degree of contentment.* Orders were immediately received to have the equipments and appointments of the regiment en- tirely complete, and to make such preparations that the troops might be able to move at an hour's notice. The investigation was thorough — every want was * Note E in Appendix. 68 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: supplied, and the men were once more cheerful at the prospect of again being treated like soldiers. But the long delay, occasioned by the unfavorable and stormy condition of the weather, for a moment threw a damper upon their strong hopes, which could not, however, be wholly extinguished. After the greater portion of the expedition had safely passed the " Swash," direct orders were issued that the " Ninth " must make ready to embark. So little remained to be accomplished in the way oJ preparation, that early the next morning (the 3d day of February) the regiment marched, in a drench- ing rain, to Fort Hatteras, the point of embarkation, where they were disposed of, and placed upon vessels which had been appropriated for their occupation. About eight o'clock on the morning of the 5th oi February the whole fleet started under way, and as each vessel took up its position in the line designated by previous orders, the various bands of the regi ments, at the proper time, struck up with a martia spirit the enlivening air of " Hail to the Chief,' which, with a thrilling pulsation of patriotic har mony, throbbed against the breasts of all the soldiers filling them with an enthusiasm that continually in creased as they further advanced toward the object o the great movement they were engaged in. At si: o'clock P.M., the whole fleet dropped anchor, and witl few exceptions remained stationary until morning those of each brigade lying near their respective flag ships for orders. At eight o'clock a.m. of the 6th, the fleet agaii moved forward ; but in consequence of a high win( THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 69 and heavy fog, again lay to abont noon, each vessel anchoring in its proper position, until early on the following day, when every thing proving favorable, anchors were again weighed, and the floating city once more in motion, plowing steadUy forward in the direction of the enemy. Arriving in distinct view of Eoanoke Island so soon conveys the idea that the fleet was not far off when the fog prevailed. And now as the ships neared the enemy they seemed to straighten up their tall masts to their full height, proudly advancing to victory. It was an imposing sight, and its very grandeur seemed a guarantee of a noble triumph over a base foe. The gunboats now steamed ahead, and when suffi- ciently near the enemy, opened upon the different points furiously, as fast as the rebels exposed their batteries by engaging the Union fleet. The trans- ports were stationed at a safe distance from the ac- tion, or moved slowly forward, the eager *troops mounting the rigging and cross-trees to gain a more uninterrupted view of the bombardment. We pass over the events connected with the bombardment, and give our attention to the noble work that was accomplished the next day by the troops composing General Burnside's command. At given signals from the flag-ships, the troops began to debark in small boats at Ashby's Landing, about five o'clock p.m., and took up position one mile inland, driving in the rebel pickets. Night closed around them, and a large bivouac was established at the place, the camp-fires at a distance lending more beauty to the scene than a close experience of it could 4* 70 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : appreciate. About eight o'clock in the evening, the " Ninth " -was transferred on the steamer Union, and soon after landed at the point which had been se- lected. THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 71 jPart Fifth : Boanofee to Minton. THE passage of so many regiments over the marsh had worked the soil into the consistency of soft clay, and when the Zouaves pushed forward to the bivouac, they found progi-ess extremely difficult in some places. At- a small stream whose water had been drained by the falling tide, leaving only its mud, they were obliged to cross upon some rails thrown loosely over, and in the dai-kness missteps were common, and the incident of going down to the bottom of the slough with one foot on either side of a rail occurred frequently. At a point where many paths diverged, there were stationed the staff-officers of the different brigades and divisions, calling out in peculiar tones of their own. This way such a regiment ! and That way such a regiment ! Arriving upon the ground, a scene of the utmost confusion seemed to prevail. Each division had stacked arms in a position that would be conve- nient for falling in en masse at a moment's warning ; and the soldiers were gathered in close order about the fires they had kindled, or, wrapped in their blank- ets, lay rolled up on the ground with the intention of getting a little rest and sleep if they could. But 72 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : Morpheus was not liberal that night, and though many attempts were made to court his graces, few met with any favor or success. The " Ninth " stack- ed their arms in proper place, and afterward built their own fires, around which they crowded in large circles, some cooking the raw bacon that had been issued to them, others singing songs of patriotism or comicality, others pouring into marvelous ears the wonders that had already occurred since landing. The rain, which was now descending steadily, and continued all the night, added not a little to the dis- comfort of the troops. The only house upon the premises was occupied as quarters by the generals and their staff. An oflScer writes home : " The generals had gone up garret — there were no rooms up-stairs — and had lain down on the floor and gone to sleep. After an hour or so, the officers present (the room was crowded with them) began to make arrangements for going to sleep. He was a lucky man who was able to get in that house ; luckier was he who could get a chair to sit in ; and supremely fortunate was the man who could secure a place to lie down and sleep in. I found an old friend in the room who had possession of a wooden bench about two feet long, which he invited me to share with him ; so we sat astride of it facing each other; he laid his head upon my right shoulder, and his shoulder supported my head in the same way, and in this position we fell asleep." A short time before daybreak a false alarm was crea,ted, having its origin in a slight disturbance on picket, and the " Ninth " sprang every man to his THEIR BATTLES AND StARCHES. 73 musket, as though there was but one to grasp, with that alacrity which had been drilled into them so long that it had become as an impulse in their nature as a regiment. In less time than is required to state the fact, the whole force had seized their arms and were prepared to resist the supposed attack. The sensation of alarm died slowly away, as did the gloom of that long and anxious night, and a presaging si- lence prevailed throughout the camp. Who might know what the day would bring forth ? All seemed wrapt in the deep consciousness that a battle was im- minent. But what the result ? The question was inwardly asked by many ; but as orders to advance were received, the answer must be sought upon the battle-field ; it must be written by dying fingers in characters of blood. One after another of the regiments left the late biv- ouac, the Third brigade, in which was the " Ninth," remaining in the reserve ; and soon came the sound of musketry, like the intermittent rolls and flams of a drum ; " the cannon's awftil breath screaming the loud halloo of death," was borne to the waiting ears through the hollow wood. But what is that distant murmur, increasing and swelling on the heavy air 1 " They cheer — 'tis a victory," cried the reserve, with enthusiasm, taking up the cheer with renewed vigor. A lull was perceptible in the firing, as though both forces were drawing nearer under cover, and then it deemed that the conflict suddenly burst out again with increased violence, as if the foes had grappled together in their rage. The battle was still continuous, and about ten 74 .THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: o'clock A.M., the Third brigade -was sent for, and they began to advance, the Hawkins Zouaves taking the lead, with them and at their head the heroic Lieut.-Col- onel M. De Monteuil. The road leading to the scene of action was narrow and tortuous, and it was fre- quently necessary to nndouble files in order to make room for the wounded, who were now being brought in. It was a pitiable sight, but it gave birth to a resolution that determined to gain a victory worthy of such blood ; and the " Ninth " pushed forward with a nervous anxiety to grasp the rebel foe by the throat. They were now close upon the marsh, where the battle was roaring with unabated fury, the bullets of the enemy beginning to fly about, striking the trees or whistling deep in the forest. But the field of conflict could not yet be seen by the Zouaves, so dense was the wood. A reporter was observed be- hind a tree securely making his notes. General Parke was in great glee, using his sword as, pointing out the way, he said : " That's right ! come on ! we have plenty of men ; more than we know what to do with — the day will be ours." On they advance, the head of the column is near the clearing, the bullets and shot getting thicker. The Zouaves will never forget the words of General Foster : " Now is the time, and you are the men : charge the battery !" Upon either hand the Massa- chusetts and Connecticut troops gave way to make room for them, crying : " Here come the Eed-cap(l% they are going to charge !" " Come on I you are the men!" etc. The reply that many of the Zouaves gave, as they hurried forward ou the double-quick, THEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES. 75 was : " That is no way to fight, lying in the grass like snakes ; why don't you get up and fight like men ?" The orders Colonel Hawkins received were to en- deavor to flank the enemy on their left ; and for this purpose he led the regiment a short distance off the "causeway" into the swamp. The utter impassa- bility of the morass and dbattis immediately assured him that a different programme must be pursued, and that without deliberation. He suddenly conceived the resolution of making a desperate charge upon the enemy, and he knew this must be done without de- lay, or suffer the severe punishment inflicted upon the troops lying in the wood under the heavy fire of the rebel battery. He turned the head of the column again upon the narrow road leading through the swamp, and the only available means of access to the battery. For a few moments past all firing had ceased, and the stillness of death sat like a spectre upon the battlefield. At this instant Lieut.-Colonel Betts came up to Colonel Hawkins, and said : " I think, Colonel, we had better charge the battery." " Tell Flockton to sound the charge," was the Colo- nel's reply. Major Eamball was standing off the " causeway " in the mud and water up to his waist ; Chaplain Conway was near the head of the regiment. The thunder of the '" red artillery " reopened the combat, and the moment the Zouaves beheld the puff of smoke from the embrasures, every man prostrated himself upon his face with the quickness of thought, and with a whirl of awful destruction, the grape and canister sped overhead and lodged in the wood be- 76 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : liind, scattering death in the ranks of the regiment there stationed. It was at this moment that the brave De Monteui received a ball in the forehead, and fell with his fac- to the foe. His death was deeply regretted by al the men. All this occupied but a few moments, and whe] Colonel Hawkins had again reached the " causeway with the head of the column, he saw Major Kimbal coming in on the charge with the left wing of th regiment. While the smoke from the enemy's gun still mantled their works, the clear sound of th bugle-notes was heard, and the Zouaves spran, again to their feet, and shouting the war-cry of " Zoc zoo-zoo !" both wings of the regiment rushed on tc gether, many of the men in the onset being jostle from the roadway into the deep mud and water o either hand ; they soon reached the moat filled wit water, into which they sprang, and began climbin up the enemy's battery. By their alacrity every ol stacle was overcome, and pushing or pulling eac other up on the parapet, (accomplishing a feat whic the enemy had thought impossible,) upon which tb colors were planted, they drove the rebels from the guns before they had time to reload and pour into tb Zouaves a second volley.* It was one of the most imposing sights, as we as THE FIKST BAYONET-CHABGE OF THE WAB. A prf oner after the battle said : " It was perfectly frightfi to witness the mad career in which the Zouaves ai vanced upon a work, which, until that moment, evei * Note F in Appendix. THEIR BATTLES XSJ) MARCHES. 77 one in it had supposed to be impregnable. But yon did not whip us out ; you only scart us out, that's all!" The Colonel immediately re-formed the regiment, and pressed forward in pursuit of the flying rebels. Mud, water, and under-brush were passed through, and they at length reached the marshy shore of Shal- lowback Bay, where they saw a portion of the enemy endeavoring to make their escape in small boats to Nag's Head. The only boat that could be reached with musketry was hailed ; but as it disregarded the siimmons and failed to put about, a volley was poured into it by Company G, which proved so eflectiye that a number of the fugitives were wounded, and the boat came to suddenly, and slowly returned to the island. Among the captured was O. Jennings Wise, son of the virulent rebel ex-governor of Virginia. In the mean time General Foster, with his brigade, had also pursued the flying host, and forced them to capitulate on unconditional terms; and as the "Ninth" stacked their arms near the house of Mr. Jarvis, sev- eral of the captor regiments passed, and cheered heartily for the " charge of the Zouaves." O. J. Wise, who had received several wounds, was carried by to the house, and as he passed, said, addressing the " Ninth " : " You are the only men who fought to- day." Afterward, in conversation with Major Kim- ball, and just before his death, which occurred in the afternoon of Sunday, the 9th, he stated with confi- dence that the battery could have defied all the troops on the island for several days, had the fighting against it been carried on in the manner it was during the 78 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: morning until the approach of the " Eed-caps." They felt able to resist the bushwhacking style of those troops lying in the wood, and felt comparatively se- cure up to the time that the Zouaves rushed out of the wood upon the "causeway," and what little doubt this gave was banished when they saw the regiment prostrated by the grape and canister, as he supposed, utterly annihilated. But when they again sprang to their feet, and madly rushed along the "cause- way," the rebels fled, more alarmed than hurt. " We were actually frightened from our position." The question has often been asked, " Did Colonel Hawkins participate in the charge on the rebel bat- tery, and if he did, why is it that his name is not associated with the victory, and Major Kimball only is usually represented as having led the Zouaves for- ward so bravely ? " A reply is not difiicult for one acquainted with the precise facts of the affair, though it may involve other questions less important. Colo- nel Hawkins's report of the battle certainly removes all doubt that he was present in the engagement. That he acted less than bravely the gallant heroes he led will not admit. From this, then, those who present the question may conclude that it might be love of modesty, or it might be fear of self-praise, that prohibits his own name from standing foremost. It will be seen that the report of the affair, while desirous of giving due credit to the gallant Major, can not abstain from according just praise to all in the regiment, both officers and men. THBIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 79 RoAKOKE Island, N. C, February 9, 1862. Bbio. -General John G. Parke: General : Agreeably to your orders, my regiment disem- barked from the transports and landed upon the island on the evening of the 7th inst. The next morning the Ninth New- York Volunteers, with other regiments of your brigade, were ordered out to reinforce the brigades of Generals Keno and Fos- ter, which had been engaged for about two and a half hours. Upon reaching the battle-ground I was ordered to outflank the enemy on their left, where they were in position behind an in- trenchment mounting three guns. After leading the Ninth New- York into a marsh, immediately in front of the enemy's work, amidst a heavy fire from them of grape and musketry, the order was given to charge the rebels with fixed bayonets. This was done in gallant style. Major Kimball taking the lead. The ene- my's works were soon carried, and hastily abandoned by them. All ofiBcers and men of the regiment behaved with great gallantry and bravery ; it is impossible-to say who is most deserving, or who merits the most applause. In my opinion all deserve credit and praUe alike. After this we were ordered to pursue the rebels, which we did, and succeeded in taking some forty prisoners ; among them were several officers and men of the "Richmond Blues," who had composed a part of the "Wise Legion," with Captain O. Jennings Wise at their head, who was badly wounded, and was trying to make his escape across to Nag's Head. I regret that I have to report the death of M. De Monteuil, Licut.-Colonel of the D'Epaneuil Zouaves, who went into the field vrith the Ninth New- York as a volunteer. He was killed instantly while nobly urging my men on to the charge. He dies greatly lamented by all the officers and men of the regi- ment who came in contact with him. His bravery was as great as his patriotism was sincere, and I can not but feel that had he lived he would have proved a most valuable officer. The Ninth New-York had two lieutenants and thirteen privates wounded. Very respectfully yours, etc.. Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers. 80 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : After the "Ninth" had stacked their arms in Jar- vis's corn-field, and were assured that all fighting was over with for that day, and a guard was securely set around, they began to build their camp-fires by which they might warm themselves, and dry some of the wetness from their clothing, although it had scarcely done raining, nor did it entirely cease until the next day. They crowded around the cheering blaze, hold- ing their shoes and socks over it on sticks, and talked of and listened to the different stories of the battle. Major Kimball took great delight in expressing him- self, as an old soldier and capable of judging, in re- gard to their creditable conduct in the fight, and said he had seen the commander of a gunboat who prais- ingly told him that when the fleet received intelli- gence of their daring charge, every vessel sent up a prolonged shout and cheer for the "Hawkins Zouaves," not merely because they made the charge, but because the charge was made so well ; and, although they appreciated the noble bearing and behavior of all the troops, they could not withhold the separate praise won by distinguished merit, no matter who the deserving parties were. As they anticipated remaining over night in the neighborhood of their present bivouac, they began to cast about for some means of protection from the weather, from which they had already suffered a great deal. A sufiicient number from each mess built the required shelter, making usually a frame- work, and then a covering with pinebrush ; the bed- ding of whatever material was most readily procured in the adjoining wood. That night was passed upon THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 81 the ground in a most uncomfortable manner, the greater number of the men being still wet. Many and widely different were the disagreeable experiences of that Saturday night. But no complaints were heard — the men rather liked the hardships they were called upon to endure, for their present life was truly that of the soldier's in actual service ; and we only allude to these privations and the condition of the weather from the fact' that such are too often over- looked in both the public and private histories of soldiers' lives. Few battles are fought in pleasant weather, and fighting is not the hwrdest work a sol- dier does. On the following day the Zouaves bethought them that something for the inner man would be agreeable. Few of the men had any thing in haversack, and they anxiously looked for the arrival of meat, coffee, and crackers. But nflne came, and as foraging was not generally allowed, it required considerable patience and forbearance to resist the demands of hunger. Some succeeded in obtaining a meagre supply for themselves, but the majority still wanted. In their peregrinations through the woods they fre- quently came upon straggling rebels ; and it was an amusing sight to see a little Zouave enter camp bring- ing as captives two large and stalwart " Johnnies," one in either hand. The regiment received orders to move, and after dinner — ^if such a nominality can be pardoned where there is nothing to eat — the right wing marched to a different part of the island; and -about dark the left wing went below near a hospital, and not far fi-om the 82 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : "nine-gun battery;". -in allusion to which we insert the following from a soldier's letter : "Before dark on the evening of Sunday -vre moved our camp near three miles avray, by a hospital on the Croatan shore. It ■w&s in a beautiful open forest of tall pines, on high ground, and through the trees we could look out upon the waters of the Sound. I observed that the trees were barked and broken by shot and shell — one large pine lying upon the ground by its severed stump. Our Major came down, and as he crowded up to the fire said : ' Sergeant, have you a cracker to give me ? ' I replied that I was not in possession of such a thing. Corporal Fisher and I went down to the battery, and while passing through the camp of the Tenth Connecticut, one of the Fourth Rhode Island had on a red flannel cap, which was meant to resemble oxa/ez, but in reality looked like a fool's-cap, and one of the "Tenth" said: ' There, you may as well take that red thing off your head, for you can't pass yourself off for one of the Zoo-zoos.' They asked us if we had much to eat, and upon receiving our reply that for the past two days we had^only what we could pick up, they bade us sit down, and then they alternately pressed us with meat, crackers, sweet potatoes, and coffee, and talked of the death of their Colonel, (Russell,) killed in the fight ; and when we left them they gave us all the compliments and potatoes we could carry ; and when we got back to camp, found that some few tents had been procured. I could not sleep for the rheu- matic pains I had ; and I was but one of a great number thus afiSicted for the third night in drenched clothing." In the forenoon of the succeeding day the regiment was marched to the beach of Croatan, " while the snow fell thick and fast, but scarcely touched the ground. They drank some of the water and found it to be fresh." The different companies were rowed to their several quarters upon the steamers, etc. in small boats. Shortly after removing their equipments, Companies THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 83 B and H were sent for to go on a reconnoissance. "We had been in our old quarters only about an hour, and our coffee and meat was all but ready for us, when we were ordered away and had to leave it, hungry and tired as we were, to go on board the Picket." Subjoined is a portion of a report made by Colonel Hawkins : Steamer Virginia, February 11, 1862. Brig.-General J. G. Parke: General : In accordance with orders received from you on the 10th inst., I proceeded with two companies of the Ninth New- Tork Volunteers on board the steamer Picket to Nag's Head, and this morning landed at the wharf opposite to where the hotel formerly stood. I learned that General Wise left there about an hour and a half before sundown last Saturday, taking with him about three hundred and fifty men belonging to the " Wise Legion." . . Wise, in order to carry out the plans of the vandals and ruffians, (the tribe to which he belongs,) burned the hotel and several of the residences, destroying a large amount of property but little use to any one. Very respectfully yours, Edsh C. Hawkins, Colonel Ninth New-York Volunteers. The members of Companies B and H were treated with great kindness by Captain Ives and the other oflttcers of the Picket, and after receiving their coffee and crackers, sang with as much glee as though they were snugly at home, although at the time it rained and snowed furiously. The boat was crowded, but they aU disposed of themselves for the night, as sol- diers will. One sergeant slept astraddle of the en- gine-shaft, and many others disposed of themselves in equally uncouth positions. Si ■ THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : After the reconnoissance liad accomplislied all was necessary, the steamer returned, and Comp B and H went to their respective quarters. The regiment was now allowed a little time t joy the honor it had won, and did it by a stu' endeavor to so improve themselves that any fi occasion would find them qualified as well as wi for the performance of their duty. But they, shortly again destined to be moved toward enemy. It was rumored among the fleet, that, at a called Winton, far up the Chowan river, there about four hundred loyal North-Carolinians rea( join our forces, and very desirous of doing bo, if were only assured that their services would be ac ed, and that they would receive the essential pr tion and means of transportation within the U lines. It was generally thought that the rumor I truthful foundation, for it was largely known ar the intelligent soldiers that there were a great f^ true Union men in the State suffering bitterly the tyranny and brutality of the vigilance and scripting committees that infested the country ; every effort to rescue these men from the rebel a and thereby weaken it, would be hailed with jc approval by the soldiers. Almost immediately following this rumor, the 16th day of February, an order came from I General Parke to Colonel Hawkins, commanding to be ready to move his regiment at an hour's n( and to confer with Commodore Eowan, United S Navy, commanding Naval Division, (steamer ] THEIR BATTLES AND MAKCHES, 85 ware,) etc., etc. The arrangements for a new move- ment had been completed, and the "Ninth" was transferred to the gunboats preparatory to moving. The expedition was composed of the flag-ship Dela- ware, Com. Barney, Com. Perry, Hunchback, Morse, Ceres, and Lockwood, carrying in all thirty-three guns, under the command of Commodore Stephen C. Kowan, and the land forces under command of Colo- nel Hawkins. At 12 m. on the 18th, the whole fleet, got imder way for the mouth of the Chowan river. While proceeding up the Albemarle Sound the Hunchback struck a sand-bar in shallow water, upon which she resolved to take a brief rest. Her engines were plied to no effect, seeing which the captain de- termined upon a novel mode of extricating his vessel. The upper deck of the Hunchback being very high, several companies were placed upon it and arranged along its starboard side. At the word "port" from the captain, they all rushed across the deck to the port side, and again upon the word "starboard," rushed back ; and so to and fro they rocked the steamer, her engines working with full force the while, until after many repeated efforts she was finally moved from the sand-bed; and overtaking the expedition which had proceeded ahead, anchored with it that night. The fleet got under way once more about 10 a.m. the following day, and with considerable speed steamed up the Chowan river. The soldiers observed the peculiar color of. the water, which about Edenton and above had a light salmon tint, inclining to an impure pink. Toward the latter part of the after- 6 86 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: noon of the 19th, and when but a short distance from the town of "Winton, heavy firing was heard in ad- vance of the main portion of the expedition, as of shots being exchanged, and not long after the flag- boat Delaware came running down the stream with unusual speed, closely followed by the Commodore Perry, and the whole fleet turned about and proceed- ed in her wake until eight or ten miles below, when all came to anchor where the river had materially widened. Up to this time the troops had not learned the purpose of the expedition, but upon the morning of the 20th, it was not further concealed from them. The men were provided with small packages of oak- um and kindling-wood, and it was then ascertained that they were to burn the bridges of the Koanoke and Seaboard Eailroad across the Nottoway and Blackwater rivers. The fleet started again up the Chowan, and upon arriving at Winton, the town and woods in the vicin- ity were shelled briskly for about twenty minutes, after which the troops landed, and failing to discover the enemy, but obtaining evidence of very recent occupation, and that the place was being used as a military post, it was fired and then left. It having been erroneously circulated by many per- sons, whose apparent object was to injure the reputa- tion of a body of men, who, in point of discipline and morality acknowledged no rival, that the burning of Winton was a piece of vandalism too horrible to associate with the honorable purposes of the war, we deem it proper to lay the fact before the reader, in THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 87 justice to the memory of those who have since fallen in defense of their country, and out of respect to the affliction of those who still mourn their loss, and to refute the calumnious assertion. Below we give the official report of Colonel Hawkins, from which all may readily perceive that the burning of Winton was justifiable, necessary, and of manifest service to the country ; and that it was done upon proper author- ity ; "was accomplished in order ; and that the only piece of vandalism connected with the event was the loss of some few geese, and several boxes of tobacco. Upon the 21st, the fleet again anchored in its old position in Croatan Sound, off Eoanoke Island, and Colonel Hawkins immediately sent his report to the Commanding General : Steamer Virginia, Roanoke Island, N. C, February 21, 1862. Bkig. -General J. G. Parke : General : In accordance with your orders of the 16th instant, I called upon Commodore Rowan, and made arrangements to embark my regiment on board some of the gunboats of his diri- sion, for the purpose of proceeding up the Blackwater and Not- toway rivers, and destroying the bridges over them of the Ro- anoke and Seaboard Railroad. At twelve o'clock m. of the 18th instant, the regiment was embarked, and the expedition got under way, and that night anchored off the mouth of the Roanoke river, where it remained until ten a.m. of the following day, and then commenced its advance up the Chowan river. Nothing of importance occurred till about half past three o'clock p.m., the flag-steamer Delaware being one mile ahead of any of the other boats. I was on the cross-trees of the mainmast, where I had been on the lookout for about two hours, and the steamer was within three hundred 88 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: and fifty yards of the wharf at Winton, when I discovered tl the high bank we were rapidly approaching was covered w Confederate soldiers. I immediately gave the alarm, but not time to change the course of the boat until she had got witl one hundred yards of the shore, when we received the fire seven hundred infantry, or more, which continued until had passed up the river out of range ; when we turned ab( and began shelling the town, the enemy returning the fire w four pieces of field artillery from the shore. In the mean ti: the gunboat Perry, having come within range, opened upon t rebels firom below. Soon after the enemy was dislodged, a retired, when the Delaware returned down the river, receivi four shots as she passed the wharf. The whole fleet came anchor about seven miles below Winton. A consultation v held, and it was then agreed to advance again next morning a burn the town, if found occupied by the enemy. About half past-eleven o'clock a.m. of the 20th instant, c gunboats arrived at and took their positions, some above, so: opposite, and others below the town, when the guns commenc firing, giving the place an effective shelling, and in about twei minutes my regiment landed, accompanied by three boat-gu under the command of Lieutenant Flusser, of the Commodi Perry. The guns were placed in position so as to command 1 approaches to the town, and the regiment was drawn up in li awaiting the attack of the enemy. In the mean time parties observation and scouts were sent out in all directions. It v soon ascertained that the rebels had retreated as soon as ( forces came in sight that morning, leaving every thing behii excepting arms and accoutrements. Six companies of my re ment took possession of the main approach to the town, am commenced making a personal inspection of all the buildings, found that nearly the whole had been taken possession of a occupied by the confederate troops as quarters and store-hous I then ordered that every building containing stores for the ei my or used by them as quarters should be fired, and pla( guards in the others to see that they were not disturbed or ■ stroyed. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 89 Then property consumed belonging to the confederate forces consisted of bacon, corn, meal, sugar, powder, mess-pans, camp- kettles, haversacks, canteens, etc., etc., the whole worth not less than $10,000. 'f his, I believe, is the first instance during the war where on our side fire had accompanied the sword. It is to be regretted that such severe measures have to be resorted to ; they can only be justified on the grounds, First. Retaliation, for trying to 'decoy us in a trap at the time of firing into the Delaware. Evidence of this is, that a negress, the property of one of the confederate officers, was sent down to the wharf by her master to beckon us into the landing, when we were all to be slaughtered, or in the words of the negress, "Dey said dat dey want gwine to let any body lib at all, but was gwine to kill ebery one bb 'em." We were to have received no quarter. Second. The luildings fired had been used by the rebel forces as store-houses and quarters. From information obtained at Winton, we came to the conclu- sion that it would be impossible to accomplish the original object and aim of the expedition, so it had to be abandoned. The forces at Winton, as near as I could ascertain, consisted of six companies of the First Battalion North-Carolina Volun- teers under command of Lieut.-Colonel William T. Williams, one battery of light artillery, one company of the Southampton cavalry, and one or two companies of the North-Carolina militia; the whole under the charge of Lieut.-Colonel Williams. I am happy to inform you that none of our forces were injured. The enemy sustained some considerable loss fi:om the fire of our gunboats on the Jl9th, but I am not able to state how many were either killed or wounded. The troops under my command and the officers and sailors of the gunboats behaved exceedingly well, and performed all of their various duties with promptness and alacrity. I feel greatly indebted to Commodore S. C. Rowan and the Lieutenants in command of the gunboats for their attention to 90 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: the wants and comforts of my regiment, and also for their hearty cooperation in trying to carry out the object of the expedition. I am most faithfully your obedient servant, Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel NiQth New- York Volunteers. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 91 Part Sixth BoanoHe to Camden. THE expedition for New-Berne was now getting ready, and it was the anticipation of the Zouaves to accompany it ; but when the order came for them to debark and take up their quarters upon the island, they gave over all hope of being participants in it, and resolved to resign themselves calmly to inactivity for a short time, no matter where, if it was consistent with the promotion of the cause. Upon the 5th day of March they landed and took possession of the large and commodious barracks which the rebels had con- structed that they might remain in them comfortably through the winter. In fact, the general appearance of the fortifications and camps occupied by the rebels bore indications of their intention to prolong their stay upon the island; but the "cruel Yankees" wrested from them all that they had labored so hard to establish and construct, and interfered with their delusive dreams of camp enjoyment. Incidents of the same peculiar nature have marvelously succeeded each other throughout the war. The " Ninth " appreciated the efforts of the rebels to provide them suitable apartments in which to rest themselves after the exertion of driving the enemy 92 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: out. A thorough renovation was given to every thing about camp, and, as usual, many temporary conveni- ences were erected immediately, which proves that the soldiers have become adepts in the art of accom- modating themselves to circumstances. Upon the 7th day of March the JSTew-Berne expedition sailed, and on the same day Colonel Hawkins assumed command of the Fourth brigade and post, and the command of the " Ninth " devolved upon Captain Jardine, who a few days after received the well-merited promotion of Major, and was at the time the recipient of a good serviceable sword, sash and belt, from his late com- pany, Q. On the 16th of the same month, the regiment was presented with a new color by the Common Council of the city of JSTew-York. Lieut.-Colonel Kimball returned from his leave of absence on the 24th, having. received the new commis- sion during his absence. He was welcomed back as an old comrade, with nine rousing cheers, and then a more cordial and intimate greeting followed. Companies H and I, under the command of Major Jardine, on the 7th of April, marched down to Pork Point, and in connection with six companies of the Sixth New-Hampshire Volunteers, the whole under the charge of Lieut.-Colonel Griffin of the Sixth New-Hampshire Volunteers, went aboard the gun- boats, which immediately steamed across the Albe- marle, and up the Pasquotank river to Elizabeth City, where the two companies of the " Ninth " landed at four o'clock A.M. of the 8th, while four companies of the New-Hampshire Volunteers did the same six THEIR BATTLES AND MAHCHES. 93 miles above the city, in order to surprise, and if pos- sible capture a body of rebels known to be there. Colonel Hawkins's official report says : " They sur- prised two companies of the rebel North-Carolina militia, who fled in the utmost confusion, casting away their arms and taking to the woods. Our forces close- ly pursued them, and succeeded in capturing seventy- three of the enemy, belonging to the First Brigade, N.C.M., who are now here in custody awaiting your orders. A quantity of munitions were taken. Our forces killed a noted rebel scout by the name of Tim Gregory, and wounded a vidette — the only known loss in men upon either side." The prisoners were brought to Camp Eeno, and guarded by the " Ninth." As described by a diary, " they were indeed a motley set ; some had straw hats, others felt of nearly every color; many had gray coats, some black ones, others brown, one none at all ; the other articles of dress co'nformed to the same variety. A little white-haired corporal, (the highest rank among them,) about fourteen years old, was the only one who could write his own name. I was Sergeant of the Guard over them, and allowed them to come out to the line that they might see a dress-parade worth looking at. They were very much pleased, and said they really believed it was of no use fighting against men like those." They all took the oath of allegiance, and were sent back to provide for their starving families. " Mistaken humanity !" It was evident that the rebel authorities anticipated some demonstration by the Union forces in the rear of Norfolk after the loss to their arms of Eoanoke and 5* 94 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: vicinity ; for they began building batteries along the canal leading to that place, and had ali'eady stationed a force of men at a place called South-Mills, where a bridge crossed on the road to Norfolk. Colonel Haw- kins writes General Burnside, under date of April 17th: " My command has been ready since Tuesday afternoon. Yes- terday I was at Elizabeth City. I think we can land east side of the river, march up to the lock, finish the work of the canal, then come down the west side of the river and take the rebels in the rear. While one party is destroying the lock, another could amuse the enemy on the west side at or below the city, and an- other can attack them in the rear. The force on the east side should land about midnight, so as to be well at their work by daylight. We could then finish the job, and be upon the enemy by one o'clock p.m. I am satisfied that it is not practicable to land at the other canal. After we are debarked, our operations should be pushed with the utmost dispatch, Norfolk being only four hours distant. I have not heard any more about the forces since the Delaware left, but think there are about three thou- sand, with eight or ten pieces of artillery.'' General Orders No. 12 commands the colonel of each regiment to hold his force in readiness with fifty rounds ammunition, three days rations, axes and shov- els. One section orders ; " The duty which this force is now called upon to endure be- ing dangerous and difiBcult, and it having a very long and ar- duous march to perform, none but men capable of undergoing the greatest fatigue will be allowed to accompany it. " Commanding oflScers are especially enjoined to see that this part of the order is strictly enforced." On the 18th day of April the " Ninth " left Camp THEIR BATTLES AND MAKCHES. 95 Keno and marched down to Fort Bartow on Pig Point, being equipped in light marching order, but still carrying rather a heavy load, and went aboard the steamer Ocean Wave, lying at the long dock, being obliged to close en Tnasse, that all might get on. Five other regiments were already embarked on the transports anchored there ; and then it was conject- ured the expedition might be a formidable one. Col- onel Hawkins was on the wharf directing the em- barkation, and as he was without his sword, murmurs ran through the regiment that he was not going ; and the men appeared quite dissatisfied at the idea, for they could not bear the thought of going into action without him ; but when Lieut. -Colonel Kimball as- sm-ed them that their Colonel would certainly go, they once more assumed that cheerfulness they were so accustomed to when about to start upon any hazard- ous undertaking. At about one o'clock p.m., the steamer cast loose and put about, heading for Albemarle Sound ; at the same time the band of the " Ninth " burst forth with the " Star-Spangled Banner " and " Yankee Doodle." All appeared in the most jubilant spirits. It was a beautiful day, and the sun came down very warm, just sufficiently to neutralize the chill from the water. The Virginia took the advance, and when within about ten miles of Elizabeth City dropped her anchor. The Ocean "Wave followed next, and just about dark lay to near the Virginia, in the mouth of the Pasquo- tank river. Not long after could be seen the lights of the other boats fast approaching. About eleven o'clock P.M. they all started ahead again, and prepara- 96 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: tions were now made for landing at a place called Shantilly. This was first effected by the " Ninth " rowing in small boats as near the shore as advisable, and then plunging into the water up to their waists, waded the rest of the way. Upon reaching the shore, a high bank loomed up in the darkness before them. Some gained the ascent by jumping upon the shoul- ders of the others, and these in turn dragged up those below. An informant says he was pulled up near the last, and the bank being very wet and slippery, he was " coated " by its mud from collar to boots. Two videttes posted in the point of woods on the left, fled at the approach of the Zouaves. Line-of-battle was formed as soon as possible, and the house of Silas Gregory was surrounded and taken possession of, that none might escape from it to the enemy. The Sixth New-Hampshire Volunteers landed next, and were soon followed by the Eighty-ninth New- York Volunteers. At a quarter past three o'clock a.m., the line of march was taken up, the " Ninth " having the ad- vance, with Company B on the right of the line. As they were passing through a dark wood, the advance- guard fired upon the rebel pickets, and, without in- vestigating the mischief inflicted, passed on. They soon emerged into an open fleld, where the bright moonlight sparkled upon the stream of polished bayo- nets, as it sometimes dances upon the water. It was suflicient to stir the heart with rapture and swell it with proud sentiment to behold these men silently but bravely setting their feet forward into the ene- my's very lines, where the foe was' known to be some- THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 97 ■what numerous, and momentarily expected to dash upon them at the approach of every spot of ground favorable for the purpose of ambush. A brief rest was taken at daybreak, at which time a member of Company H was accidentally shot over the eye. He refused to be conducted back, but, tying up the wound, started on the way again with his com- pany. A rfegro giiide, furnished by the navy, led the way, and throughout the day was strongly suspected of leading the brigade in the wrong direction, but was plainly told that he would be shot if he proved treacherous. After the column had passed the village of Shiloh on the right, heavy firing was heard on the left, which proceeded from the gunboats, which had passed up the canal to prevent any more of the enemy from crossing the bridge. It was now the object to get the column up to South-Mills and defeat the rebels before they should have time to receive reenforcements from Norfolk, or construct works of defense ; and the men now pushed forward more rapidly ; and as the sun poured down hotly, and the roads were very dusty, the "arduous task " mentioned at the outset was being intensely felt by the men. During the forenoon another brief rest was allow- ed, and the hot water was poured from the canteens, which were again filled with some cool and refresh- ing ; then a slim repast of meat and hard bread was eaten. 9S THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Of an incident by the way, after again starting, a correspondent writes : " At length we came near a fine plantation, and our guide in- formed us that a rebel militia captain lived there ; so Lieut-Colonel Kimball ordered Lieut. Barnett to take three groups off the right and go in and arrest him. As they entered the gate, a lady standing on the piazza began to scream wildly, and when they went in the house, and the Lieutenant laid his hand on the rebel, and said he and another man present were prisoners of war, she changed color and seemed so frightened that she surely must have thought we were about to devour them all. But they were assured no harm would be done them. The screaming brought Colonel Hawkins quickly to the spot, who after inquiring into the affair to his satisfaction, let the two men go back to the house, at which the woman was rejoiced. " We had not proceeded far, when, turning the next corner, we saw a horseman galloping with speed toward us. He was a young man, dressed in a greenish-yellow suit, rather seedy, and appeared to be a Southern gentleman. Colonel Hawkins made him dismount and give his horse to Major Jardine, and then ac- cused him of conniving treacherously with the enemy. He could hardly stammer out a false denial. He was obliged to ' right about,' and go as a guide to our brigade, which he did rather re- luctantly, being forced all the way out and back. He acknow- ledged that he was one of the videttes in the wood by Gregory's when we landed. All felt like hanging him on the spot, but secondly reflected that it might be ' unconstitutional,' so we were all bound to respect the traitor." At about noonday the Fourth brigade met General Keno's column of the Twenty-first Massachusetts and Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and after waiting a few minutes for them, all started ahead again, Gen- eral Reno's brigade in advance, with a detachment of two field-pieces from Company K, Ninth New- THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 99 York Volunteers. At this point many of the " Ninth," experiencing great weariness and exhaustion, that would have broken any spirit upon a less eventful occasion, exhibited an inclination to rest beyond the time allotted for halting, by their indiflPerence to keep up with the comrades they had marched so far with; but as they evinced their weariness rather by losing a little distance with each weary step than by any sly endeavor to straggle in the rear, they were urged forward in the name of the " Ninth " and the Union by those at their elbows. As they pro- ceeded further the shameful example of straggling dis- played by other regiments gave them the spirit to reprove what they saw rather than any desire to par- ticipate in what they considered so unsoldierly. But still their feet seemed to get heavier and heavier at each step, and only the hope of a speedy halt stimu- lated them to renewed exertion. Some of the sol- diers, who had marched only half the distance the " Ninth " had, lay down as if incapable of further ex- ertion, and as exhaustion took possession of their weakened citadel they surrendered themselves to sleep, and perhaps to scouting bands of the enemy. At length it was said we had discovered the enemy in position, waiting for us. The column was again halted to rest. The Fifty-first Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, Twenty-first Massachusetts, and Company K's artillery were ordered ahead. In a short time the first gun sounded ominously through the woods where the " Ninth " lay — many asleep, others unheed- ing the sound. Colonel Hawkins had walked all the way, and for a moment stood contemplating the ex- 100 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: haustion of his regiment, and his own weariness sym- pathized with that of the men. Lieut.-Colonel Kim- ball, who had ridden the most of the way and was sorely chafed, sat upon the bank by the road-side, almost shedding tears at the thought of "giving out" when a battle was coming on, in addition to the fa- tigue already called for by a march of over thirty-two miles. Company K, together with Colonel Howard's ma- rine artillery, was now shelling the enemy, who replied rapidly. The marine Colonel was standing on one side a little in advance of K's guns, viewing the ene- my with a glass, when he was informed that the strip- pings from the shell might make his position danger- ous; and he turned slowly about, poising his glass, and said ; " I guess not — never knew the strippings to kill any body ; did you ? " Captain Reno galloped from the front to where the " Ninth " lay, immediately followed by the General, who eagerly inquired of Colonel Hawkins how his " Ked-caps " were. He replied that they were scarcely able to lift their feet. The General said it must be so, they had marched so far ; but the enemy were just down there in the wood below, and it would not take a great deal to whip them. You may take the little Zouaves to the right and outflank them. The artillery on both sides was now briskly en- gaged, and the order to "forward" was once more given. Until this moment, when they began to rouse themselves, the " Ninth " did not realize their utter prostration. The line staggered iapon its feet, look- ing like the struggle of some great serpent in agony, THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 101 and forward again it began to wind upon the advance. A short distance further ahead they turned off the main road and were led to the right through the edge of the wood that bordered on the cleared space in front. Having arrived as near the enemy as prac- ticable without discovering the position thus attained, the line was again halted. Lieut.-Colonel Kimball rode further to the right on the advance, and after a little inspection of the situation, returned, the enemy's shot sounding plump, plump, round about. "Ifoth- ing but solid shot, boys," said he ; " we don't care for that." One who is well informed of this stage of the pro- ceedings, says : " Colonel Hawkins now went forward to the right, out in the clearing, and took a calm view of the situation of affairs. He saw the road running down to the enemy's lodgment covered with rails, thrown crosswise, several feet deep, up to which Com- pany K with their artillery had advanced and were blazing away. The marine artillery was directly in front, the open space between which and the enemy was about three fourths of a mile, and the fences crossing these lots, together with a farm-house, had been fired to conceal the foe. To the right the wood was very umbrageous, with a swampy bottom, which rendered it almost impassable. The Colonel was not long in concluding upon the only course by which the enemy could be routed. Eeturning to the regiment, every man now lying down to rest himself, he told them how far off the rebels were, and said : " I think if you can walk one half of a mile and run a quar- ter, we can take the battery : will you do it ? " 102 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: '' We will try," said they ; " we will do any thing you say." It is astonishing, under the circumstances, that any should have said what they were willing to do. The tears came to the eyes of the Colonel as he viewed the long line of heroes ready for the daring act. " Well, boys," said he, " I can't order you to go." It was enough: slowly the long line of "Ked-caps" stirred and arose irregularly as if assisting each other to rise, and every man that could muster sufficient strength got upon his feet, clutched his musket, and prepared to follow the Colonel, who was now leading the way. So exhausted, and yet with such determin- ation, they resolved to go wherever he should take them. The solid shot now began to fall " sensibly near," and it was evident the rebels had seen the " Red-caps," for they were getting close range upon them. The fence was thrown down, the ditch was quickly passed, and the " Ninth" was now out in the clearing, steadily advancing down the gentle slope. The artil- lery on both sides ceased as they moved slowly for- ward; and a silence now prevailed, as though the fields had suddenly been transformed into a grave- yard. One after- another of the biirning fences and the last had been left behind, and still the deep silence was preserved, and there was heard only the rushing noise of many footsteps over the soft and yielding ground, that seemed like the hard breathing of the regiment as it touched the ear. The half-mile had been passed over; and now, as the order was blown on the bugle, "double-quick — charge bayonets!" a faint THEIR BATTLES AND MABCHES. 103 effort to put forth the battle-cry, " Zoo-zoo-zoo ! " was made, but it died away with a sickening sound, and was superseded by a rapid discharge of grape and can- ister from the enemy's battery of six pieces, together with the concentrated fire of their united force of infantry. The style of fighting practiced by the " Ninth " seemed to be well known to them, for when the Zouaves fell upon their faces to avoid the whist- ling hail, they directed their fire lower, which caused it to ricochet upon the plowed ground, cutting into the ranks of the attacking force like a scythe into grass. The fire of the rebels was now so severe tliat the regiment began to stagger. A sergeant, who was the first man on the right, gives some very interesting par- ticulars of this part of the engagement. " Up to this time not a man had fired his musket from our ranks ; our business was to give them the cold steel ; but I thought about then we were getting the hot grape instead, which made the red wine run pretty freely. I was so very tired I could scarce lift my feet, and had not the enemy's shot spurred me up I should have fallen on the spot. But I resolved to keep up till they knocked me down. Many prostrated themselves to get rid of the canister ; but when I saw one of our company do so and get shot in the head, I thought it best to stand up. Lieutenant Barnett and I staggered against a small apple-tree. 'Lieutenant,' said I, ' I don't believe I can go another step.' ' This is tough,' he replied. Just then there came a zip-zip and a thud-thud into the tree. We changed our base immediately, and stepped for- ward slowly toward the enemy. The regiment staggered again, and now began to fire at the rebels. Colonel Hawkins fell wounded in the left arm, Lieut.-Colonel Kimball had his horse shot under him, and sat upon the ground almost unable to move. Adjutant Gadsden was killed by a grape in the thigh, and Lieuten- 104 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: ant McKecknie was rushing forward, wildly waving his sword, and shouting for the men to advance, when at this instant the order was given to 'make way to the right and get cover in the woods,' which was gallantly done, the regiment not losing an inch of the ground they had gained. I had fired my piece, and while proceeding to execute the order, thought I must reload at the same time, which I did after some difficulty, dragging the butt of the musket on the ground. I reached the fence by the wood with the ramrod rattling in my gun, and climbed it ; two rails broke and let me down upon the Major of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, who wondered where I came from." General Reno was standing behind Company K's pieces. That excellent soldier shed tears as he lament- ingly murmured, "They are getting cut up badly; it is too bad." Several of the regiments were now ordered forward to make a combined charge upon the rebels. The " Ninth " was among them. But the enemy had already began to slacken fire, and it was apparent that they were contemplating a hasty retreat. Could the Zouaves have held their position and advanced a few yards further, there is no question that they would have completely routed the rebels and captured their guns. As it was, the enemy now fled in confusion, with their flying artillery, upon the approach of this new assaulting column. A few moments more, and the Union forces re- mained sole possessors of the battle-field, and were burying their dead. Upon the approach of the " Ninth," after the enemy had been discovered. Corporal Spooner, of Company B, had a great desire to smoke his pipe, but at the mo- ment distinctly recollected that he left it on the man- THEIK BATTLES AND MARCHES. 105 tel in the corporal's quarters at the barracks. During the battle he was struck in the thigh by a bullet, and he immediately crawled to a ditch, where he proceeded to examine into the nature of his wound, and to his amazement found that the ball had taken lodgment in his pocket, where he also found pieces of the pipe he had wished for so much . The ball must have enter- ed the bowl of the pipe directly, as it was completely smashed, leaving only the bottom portion attached to the stem. The presence of the pipe undoubtedly saved his life, for on the statement of the surgeon,* his wound would have been similar to the one received by the brave and lamented Gadsden.f Pickets were immediately established, and 'the " Ninth " had some little hope of obtaining a trifle of that rest they so much needed ; but this was not to be ; employment beckoned their services in every direction. A gentle rain began to fall, which con- tributed much refreshment that could not be derived from any other source. They were within four hours' communication with Norfolk, and if they should re- main at South-Mills another battle still more severe was before them, and perhaps the surrender of all. Accordingly about nine o'clock p.m., the order to march was given, and the direction taken at once assured all that they were to return to the transports that night. Some of the wounded who were unable to ride in the army-wagons were left behind under charge of a surgeon. Chaplain Conway also remained * Note G in Appendix, f Note H in Appendix. 106 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: to care for the wounded ; and his attentive services relieved much suffering, and added another evidence of his kindly nature and synipathy to that he had exhibited on other occasions. Imagination must lend its powers in order to con- ceive the severity of the return march on that black and stormy night. About ten o'clock the rain poured in torrents upon the heads of the men. Frequently they would stumble in the darkness, the slippery nature of the soil rendering it impossible to keep sure footing. "When the command would be given to halt a moment for rest, the troops would drop suddenly upon the roadside in the mud or water, according to the condition of the ground they were treading upon at the time. But they must reach the bridge before the enemy should destroy it, and for this purpose they toiled 'on mechanically. Just before dawn the bridge was crossed by the " Ninth," to whom it was given to destroy the same after the troops had passed it, to wait for stragglers and bring them in, and to perform the unpleasant task of urging on at the point of the bayonet the prisoners captured, who were ready to drop from exhaustion at every step. They could not credit the fact that the Zouaves had marched double the distance they had and still re- tained so much more of vitality. Shortly after daylight they reached Shantilly, and embarked once more on board the Ocean Wave. The negro guide, who had so treacherously led the brigade of Colonel Hawkins in the wrong direction, was executed in the wood. It was afterward ascer- tained that he had been sent to us by the enemy for THEIE BATTLES AND MAKOHES. 107 the purpose of leading our troops into a trap the rebels had prepared. But the sagacity of the com- mander prevented such a disaster. We subtract a portion of the official report of the affair sent in to the Commanding General by Colonel Hawkins : " It is seldom if ever that men have been called upon to perform so much in so short a time as those were who composed the fourth brigade imder my command — marching forty-six miles and fightirig a lattle, all in twenty-six hours! You will admit that it was no small undertaking ; and yet this was done with- out a murmur or complaint. " Soon after the troops had returned to Roanoke Island, Chap- lain Conway* arrived, bringing with him about fifty stragglers of different regiments, and some of the wounded of the Ninth New- York Volunteers, who were left behind on the field of battle. " In this enterprise the Commanding General has received an- other evidence of the courage, enterprise, and fortitude of the troops under his command. Although the results may seem disastrous on account of the loss of life, still the reconnoissance can not fail to be of great value to him when connected with future operations. In the charge of the Ninth New- York Volunteers, that regi- ment lost nine killed and sixty wounded. Among the former was Lieutenant Charles A. Gadsden, Adjutant, who fell while gallantly cheering on the men at the head of the regiment. He was a kind, considerate gentleman, and a most excellent soldier and died greatly lamented by all of his companions." The regiment arrived at the long wharf on Eoa * Note I in Appendix. 108 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: noke Island about five p.m. of the 20th of April, and marched up to Camp Reno that evening. As a testimony of the severity of the toils in the late expedition, it is only necessary to add that the men were so sadly used up that respite from all drill for one week was granted them, at the end of which time they were comfortably ready for another call. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 109 Part Seventh : Boanohe to loJifolk and lewpotits T^ews. SHOKTLT after, a reading-room and post-office for the "Ninth" were opened, and reading matter of every description came pouring in from all directions. It proved to be of great advantage to the men, and they might be seen there at all hours between drill pouring over the books and papers in deep study and enchanting recreation, or writing their letters, or fill- ing out diaries. The avidity with which they seized upon this new source of pastime and improvement was very gratifying to those who had furnished the means. A debating club was immediately established, and regular evenings out of each week allotted for con- troversy. Many subjects of enticing interest were discussed, the Chaplain usually taking some strong position. Several base ball clubs were organized throughout the regiment, and exciting contests took place between them every Saturday; and as the " Ninth " boasted many excellent players, it may be supposed that these clubs were no mean feature among the many sports engaged in by the men and officers. Some of the companies also erected gymnastic 6 110 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: apparatus, flying-rings, cloud-swings, horizontal and parallel bars, trapezes, etc., and the excellent skill of many was exhibited on them, and acrobatic perform- ances induged in, together with sparring and wrest- ling, and all the category of amusements resorted to, as the different ideas of recreation called for them. Amusements seemed now to be the prevalent order of the time, and we know of no successive occasions where the talent that composed the Ninth Regiment of New- Tork Volunteers was so finely displayed as in the management of " The Zouave Minstrel and Dramatic Club," which, having been under formation for some time, now opened and gave public entertainments to happy audiences, that so overcrowded the building appropriated for the object, that another and larger one, capable of holding over five hundred people, was substituted by the kind permission of the Colonel. Artists of considerable reputation painted the scenery ; carpenters of experience constructed with toil their portion of their work ; the mechanical appointments were erected by those who had followed the business ; the stage-manager was formerly from a Broadway house, where he was conductor of a superior arrange- ment of the same kind ; dresses were properly selected by those who understood that portion of the parapher- nalia ; professional actors " graced the stage," and the ablest critics manifested their approbation of the man- ner in which " Box and Cox " and the novel and^ hu- morous burlesque of " Richard III." were produced, together with the caricaturing of the acrobatic "Han- Ions," etc. The minstrel band, composed of the usual burnt-cork talent found in that capacity, acquitted THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. Ill themselves most excellently. Johnson's " Lord Lov- el " and " BiUy Barlow " -will be remembered for many years by alt who heard them on Eoanoke Island. So great was the success of the club that all who sought admission could not be accommodated, many turning away disappointed, marching back many miles to camp. . The natives of the island were not only pleased but incredulously astonished at the performances. The intellectual faculties of the inhabitants are only pos- sessed in that degree just sufficient to display a portion of their ignorance, it usually requii'ing some develop- ment to exhibit all. Few of the Eoanokers, knew what a theatre was, and scarcely any of them had- ever seen a play ; to instance which, we make men- tion of an incident where an elderly female was asked how she liked the performance she saw last evening ; the reply was that " she did not know, because she had never seen any thing of the kind before ; but all the while the play was going on it was as much as she could do to keep from laughing at the nigger minstrels." The object of the association was not merely for tlie entertainment and amusement of the regiment, but for the nobler purpose of establishing a fund for the relief of the wounded members of the " Ninth ;" and how well it succeeded many of them who have received quite an acceptable sum of the proceeds can testify. About this time religious services of a very inter- esting character were held in the reading-room ; dis- courses by the Chaplain. 112 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: In the fore part of May Colonel Hawkins learned that the rebels had a large amount of stores, consist- ing of bacon, corn, salt, flour, etc., stored near Gates- ville, and he determined to send a small expedition to destroy the same. Accordingly on the 7th of May he ordered Captain Parisen to take his company, C, on board the gunboat Shawsheen, and proceed to exe- cute that duty. Captain Underwood steamed the vessel over the Albemarle and up the Chowan river, and then, at the still hour of midnight, entered Cath- erine's Creek, which empties into the former river, opposite HoUiday's Island, pushing slowly up-stream, using the precaution to conceal their lights, until they had advanced against the cuiTent for about two miles, when they landed in silence about one o'clock on the morning of the 8th, in a wooded swamp, through which they proceeded until they had arrived within about ten miles of the town of Gatesville, when they found themselves near the storehouses which they had come to destroy, and which were under the charge of a man named Jordan. They immediately set fire to the buildings, destroying provisions of great value to the enemy, and turned about to march back. Upon the return of the force to the gunboat, the the rear-guard, commanded by Lieutenant Cooper, was attacked by a small force of the enemy's cavalry, about twenty-five in number. Captain Parisen with the main body immediately came to the relief of the guard, repulsing the cavalry with the loss 'of one of their number, who was shot in the heart. The detachment reached Roanoke Island on the 9th, and great praise was accorded to Captain Parisen THEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES. 113 for the promptness and completeness, witi which he performed the work assigned him. Some time pre\dous there was conceived in the regiment the idea of presenting to their Colonel some appropriate testimonial of the esteem and apprecia- tion in which they held his attachment and services to them all. The thought had probably existed for a long while, when upon one evening, in the Sergeants' quarters of Company B, after the matter had been broached, two sergeants rose up and said they would begin to make it generally known and give it a start that evening. Accordingly they immediately paid a visit to all the sergeants' quarters in the regiment, proposing the idea with their own views as to what could be done. The pleasure with wliich the proposal was received, and the readiness with which they all acknowledged the propriety of the movement, gave ample promise that its final issue would be consum- mated in a favorable manner. Those who originated it requested that first sergeants would state the prop- osition in plain terms to their companies, requesting them to hold a meeting among themselves, and ap- point three privates as delegates to a meeting which would be held that same evening in the quarters of Company B ; and that it was not expected contribu- tions of more than one dollar from each member would be admitted, the object being to derive the sum from as many individuals as possible, in order that the testimonial might represent the feelings of the entire regiment separately as well as collectively. The meeting was held, and all the ofiicers and ne- cessary committees appointed, composed entirely of 114 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: privates, as- it was desired by the sergeants and cor- porals that they should conduct the affair throughout, with only the exceptions made by the privates them- selves. A meeting was again to be held the third night after ; they adjourned quite jubilant with the bright prospect of effecting the desirable object. At the second meeting about four hundred dollars was handed the treasurer. Several other gatherings of the same nature were held, and the handsome sum raised was sent on to Judge Whiting of New- York, who, with great pleasure, obtained the article, which was brought on to Koanoke Island by Dr. White on Friday, the 9th day of May. The box containing it was opened while an eager crowd pressed around, each zealous to obtain the first glance, when lo, a beautiful sword with a duplicate scabbard, etc., was exposed to the view of all present. So far the affair had been kept secret to the men themselves, and it is believed that up to a few hours previous to its pre- sentation not an oflflcer in the regiment was aware of the intended compliment. A message was dispatched to Colonel Hawkins to the effect that his presence at Camp Reno on the afternoon of Saturday would confer a favor upon the regiment ; and the reply was, that he would attend at the appointed hour, though he was not at all suspi- cious of the agreeable intentions of the men. Accordingly about three o'clock on the afternoon of the 10th, the Colonel arrived at Camp lleno, with his arm still in its sling. The officers of the regiment crowded about him in sympathetic numbers. The men were busily engaged in polishing themselves for the occasion. THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 115 Eveiy thing was in readiness and the parade was immediately formed, the band playing an appropriate air for the assembly. Sergeant-Major Dusenbury was in command, and gave his orders with distinctness and accuracy. Never did the regiment make a finer appearance than on this happy occasion. The precision and celerity with which the command to "form square" was executed astonished all present, and the Colonel could not restrain himself from say- ing to those around him, "I am glad to see that others besides the officers can handle my regiment." The committee of the presentation then escorted Colonel Hawkins within the square, while the- band made some excellent music. "When the Colonel had taken his station under the flag. Private Eeed, of Company B, stepped forward and made a very appropriate presentation address, at the conclusion handing the sword to Colonel Haw- kins, who, after examining the beautiful testimonial, replied in a speech that will not soon be forgotten. After the ceremony was over each company in turn ran up to the headquarters, and gave nine spirited cheers in approbation of the sentiments that con- cluded the speech. The necessity of opening the canal to Norfolk,* after the evacuation of that place by the rebels, was urged upon the department by Colonel Hawkins, who foresaw the advantages to be derived from a twenty- four hours' communication between Old Point and New-Berne, inasmuch as there were contemplations of * Note K iu Appendix. 116 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: future cooperation between Generals Wool and Burn- side. Measures were taken to dredge out the canal and prepare it for navigation ; and at one o'clock Friday morning, the 6th of June, Colonel Hawkins started with Company K and its battery on board the steamer Port Eoyal to make a formal opening of communications, as intended, that force being the first to traverse that portion of the enemy's country. They were not molested to any extent, and returned again a few days after, vindicating the feasibility of the undertaking. Company K, Captain Whiting, was detailed as steamer's guard, and made the passage several times afterward. Early in June the town of Plymouth on the Roa- noke river, was taken possession of by Lieutenant Flusser of the navy, and up to the 15th of the month had been held by the naval force under his command ; when Company F of the " Ninth" was detached from the regiment and placed by Colonel Hawkins in com- mand of the town, remaining there until the follow- ing December. Colonel Hawkins at this time com- menced raising the first regiment of volunteers from the loyal citizens of the State of North-Carolina. On the Ist of July, at three o'clock in the morning, the regiment proceeded to Pork Point in full march- ing order, where it embarked on board schooners with the assistance of the Ocean Wave, and was after- ward towed down the Pamlico Sound to the mouth of the Neuse river, when a steamer came out and handed in orders to put about and return, as the, ob- ject for which the expedition was intended had been THEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES. 117 accomplislied. Roanoke Island was again readied on the evening of the 2d. On July 3d the following order was issued by Colonel Hawkins for the observance of our National Independence : Headquarters Fourth Brigade and Post, Roanoke Island, July 3, 1862. I Special Order ) ) No. 23. f To-morrow being the anniversary of our National Independ- ence, all labor in the camps of this post will be suspended. The day will be devoted to such patriotic exercises as the regimental commanders may deem appropriate for an observance of the same. The Colonel commanding the post would recommend that com- mandants of battalions form their commands at some hour during the forenoon, and read in their presence the Declaration of Inde- pendence, and add thereto such other demonstrations as may seem proper for the occasion. At twelve o'clock m. national salutes will be fired from Forts Foster and Parke. By order Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. John B. Sbepard, A. A. A. G. After listening with faithful attention to the Declar- ation that " aU men are created free and equal," blank cartridges were issued to the " Ninth," and they im- mediately set about to make such demonstrations for the celebration of tlie day as old soldiers understand so well. Almost every conceivable manner of proper amusement was introduced into the camp — the mimic life in the trenches, the charging upon fortifications with flying artillery mounted on wheel-barrows, the 6* 118 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : blowing up of magazines, etc. But what is more particularly deserving of remembrance is the Fantas- tic Parade in the afternoon. Those who engaged in it received the applause of all who witnessed their display at Camp Reno ; and they then proceeded to Pork Point, reviving all the good nature in the camps, and afterward exhausting it. On the 10th of July, and about two o'clock p.m., the regiment having received orders to leave the island, marched in the heat of a scorching sun to headquarters with their knapsacks full, experiencing sad eflfects from the intense heat. After going aboard, the steamers started, leaving the Croatan and gliding over the shallow waters of the Albemarle, arrived at the mouth of North river, where they came to anchor for the night ; the troops meantime were transferred to other vessels more fitting to make the passage of the canal they were to go through. The force started again at six o'clock a.m. the following morning, and without any interruption of note, arrived at Norfolk about two A.M. of the 12th, and on that day landed and established their camp within a stone's throw of the northern side of Old Fort Norfolk. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 119 Part Eighth : l^ewpotits ^ews to Jfiiedetiichsbuijgh an4 Washington. THE regiment remained at this station until the 24:th of July, when it was again ordered to em- bark with all equipage on board the E. S. Terry. Accordingly it left tlie fort about nine o'clock in tlae morning, during a heavy rain, and landed at Ifew- ports News about half-past eleven. The Zouaves n^arched past the numerous outstretched encamp- ments of the forces there, receiving tremendous out- bursts of applause from those who now witnessed the martial grace of men long known to them all by rep- utation. The " Ninth " established their camp some distance up on the immediate bank of the James river, which at this point has a shore elevated from thirty to fifty feet. The regiment's stay at this camp was brief: on the 3d day of August (Sunday) we find them again embarking in a drenching rain-storm. The steamer City of New-York, on which they were, left the dock at Newports News at about half-past two p.m., making a stop of five hours at Fortress Monroe, and at nine in the evening was steaming it up the Potomac, ar- riving at Acquia Creek about ten o'clock on the fol- lowing morning. 120 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVKS: On the 5th of the mon.th the steamer Columbia conveyed them to the wharf on Brent's Point, where they landed about noon ; and after placing all the ac- companying luggage on the cars, they sprang into them, and with whistling speed soon reached Falmouth Station, where they pitched camp upon a hill com- manding the city of Fredericksburgh, and not far from the ancient mansion of the rebel Lacy, which place was called Camp Parke. On the 8th day of August the detachment of a hun- dred men, tinder command of Cajitain Graham, which had been left on Poanoke Island to guard the place and take charge of the surplus stores of the regiment necessarily left behind, arrived, bringing with them the extra baggage and uniforms of the men. Knapsack drills were now adopted into the habitn9.1 discipline of the regiment, and although the weather was intensely hot, the hard, dry earth reflecting as much heat as the fiery sun cast upon it, it was well shown that the Zouaves could maintain their fame for perfect drill no matter what disadvantage lay in the command. The dress-parades were an attractive feature, the band having been reorganized, reiiniformed and en- larged, under the excellent leadership of Mr. "Wallace, of New-York. Tlie "first call" for parade in the quarters of the "Ninth" was always the signal for the other troops about to start up in their own camps and assemble themselves at some convenient location available for unobstructed observation, .that they might obtain a sight that had not often graced the eyes of even old soldiers ; and it is not known that THEIR BATTLES AifD MAECHES. 121 any have been unwilling to accord to the Zouaves en- comiums of excellent worth in the unusual perfection they had attained in the manual of arms and in their military exercises, as well as the strict adherence to discipline in all duties connected with a soldier's service. On the 12th day of August, Company H was sent down to guard Potomac Creek bridge. During their stay at Fredericksburgh the " Ninth " was detailed for picket-duty on the Orange Court- House and adjacent roads. Notwithstanding the aversion manifested by the inhabitants of that fatal town toward the Union troops, the Zouaves could ex- tract a cheer as they passed through it. The drum- major's attractive appearance rendered him conspicu- ously observed by the wondering classes, who were overheard remarking to themselves, " That must be General McClellan ! See how they all turn the corner when he throws out his big stick ! " On the 14:th of August, Lieutenant George H. Her- bert was ordered to take a force of twenty-nine men and two guns from Company K, and proceed down the river to break up a rebel ferry that had been es- tablished many miles below for the purpose of facili- tating a cross-communication between the Potomac and Central Virginia. Accordingly for this purpose the Lieutenant and his comrades embarked on the steamer Cooper's Point. They sped hastily down the Eappahannock, conceiving the idea of effecting a sur- prise ; and this they actually did when they reached the spot, so adroitly was the whole affair managed. After a conflict of very brief duration they succeeded 122 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: in capturing thirteen prisoners with side-arms, a quan- tity of baggage and four horses. After destroying all means of rebel transportation at the ferry, they re- turned up the river, with the well-merited satisfaction of having performed a valuable duty which at the outset bore the appearance of extreme hazard, with- out the loss of a man to themselves. At this progress in the events of our national his- tory, General Pope's defeat had been confirmed by the advance of the rebel army, which was not checked until the, invasion of Maryland compelled General McClellan to throw his forces in the face of the enemy. Pursuant to this end, the "Ninth" received orders to take up the line of march, which it did upon the night of the 31st of August. Although the march was but a short one of fifteen miles, yet the circum- stances under which it was executed render it worthy of mention in the records of the weary marches our .brave soldiers have undergone, when attended by every disadvantage that so doubles distance and pro- longs time. Those who measure their tramps upon the map habitually cast away many miles that have been so hardly made by the overloaded soldier. The regiment was on picket-duty the night previous, when it stormed furiously, wetting not only themselves but every thing in their possession, (excepting musket and powder !) more particularly the blanket and overcoat, which it is more desirable to keep dry, so that a single knapsack weighed over forty pounds, beside the ac- coutrements ; which fact was personally ascertained by Colonel Hawkins. As soon as they arrived in Camp Parke from picket, tents were to be struck and THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 123 the laborious work of packing securely the regimental and company property (not to be taken with them in a rapid campaign) was to be performed, together with the vast detail of breaking up such a camp as the "Ninth" had constructed at that place. The march to Acquia Creek was taken up about six o'clock, and the night, to add to the discomforts of the men, soon after set in with pitchy blackness ; and the roads being rough and hilly, and moreover very muddy and slippery from the recent rains, contributed not a little to the irksome toil of the night. " On, they trudged with the inability to avoid those irregularities which are so prevalent in the highways of Virginia, those behind stumbling in the incautious footsteps of those ahead, often leading to bruised limbs, and always pro- voking the laughter that did not find its way far in the darkness. About five o'clock on the following morning they reached Acquia Creek Station, and after some delay at the landing, marched about four miles upon the bluffs that overlook the river for many miles^and encamped to act as a reserve to support the artillery there. On the 4:th of the month they marched down to the Station, and about eight o'clock p.m. embarked on the transport Louisiana, and started up the Poto- mac, reaching Washington, and landing about ten o'clock A.M. It would seem that the people of the capital had seen soldiery enough ; but when the "Ninth" passed through they evinced their appre- ciation of perfection in company line and change of naanual by numerous tokens of applause. After marching a few miles out of the city, the regiment encamped upon Meridian Hill. 124 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Part Ninth: Masbington to ;^tte4$tilcb. TBffi days were extremely hot and sultry, the nights cool with very heavy dews, and the "Ninth" had not a particle of shelter of any kind. On th« morning of the Tth Colonel Hawkins turned over the command of his brigade to Colonel Fair- child, and departed for New- York, regretting that it became imperative to leave his regiment upon the very opening of a new and active campaign. About one o'clock of the 7th, the regiment left Me- ridian Hill to march again, biit in consequence of the heavy wagon-trains upon the road was obliged to pro- ceed very slow. After marching for about ten miles they encamped for the night. The regiment remained there all day and night of the 8th. Upon the morn- ing of the 9th, reveille was beaten about three o'clock, and at sunrise the Zouaves again started on the march, and after accomplishing a distance of twelve miles, rested near Brookville at eleven o'clock a.m. At five in the afternoon tents were again struck, and by ten o'clock at night the regiment established camp neai Laytonsville, having completed the second march oi ten miles. On Wednesday, the 10th day of Septem- ber, camp was again broken, and they marched out ir THEIR BATTLES AND MAECIIES. 125 the direction of Frederick. When on the road about four miles, orders were received to return. The next day the regiment left the encampment near Laytonsville at about nine o'clock a.m., and pro- ceeded on J;he road toward Frederick again, passing the town of Damascus at half-past one p.m., and at five o'clock pitched camp a little south of Ridgeville, having marched about fifteen miles. Just before "tattoo," Lieut.-Colonel Kimballcalled the men to- gether, and taking from his pocket a newspaper, began to read to them of the fight in which Company F had engaged near Plymouth, and of the daring exploit of Sergeant Green. The victoi'ious F's were long and loudly cheered by their comrades, who, though sep- arated from them many hundreds of miles, were thus assured that their name and valor would be represent- ed in a manner well becoming their reputation. It rained heavily all night. Early in the morning the march was again taken up, the regiment keeping upon the main turnpike that crosses the Monocacy direct for Frederick, which had been invaded by the rebel troops under Jackson. The town of New- Market was passed through at one o'clock, and about half-past three o'clock the column was halted under the brow of the Monocacy ridge, and shortly after intermittent firing was heard a short distance ahead. It seems that our advance had reached the rear of the rebel army, a small force of which threw a few shot and shell at the Union ad- vance-guard, more with the intention of hurling de- fiance at them than the idea of offering resistance by disputing the passage of the Monocacy bridge. Our 126 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: cavalry pursued the flying rear-guard of the enemy, pushing them through the city up into the Catoctin mountains. The advance was again taken up by General Eodman's division ; the ridge was descended, the bridge was crossed ; and when the column was within half a mile of the outskirts of Frederick City, it filed off to the left, until the whole had reached the open field across the railroad, when they marched into brigade line over fences and through the high- topped corn, where the points of the colors only could be seen by which to keep the line, overleaping every obstacle, or throwing it prostrate in the path. A double picket-fence was one of the obstructions that stood in the line of advance in front of the right wing of the " Ninth ;" but the men easily swept it down with the butts of their muskets. Troops were now pouring into the city upon all the roads east and south. The " Ninth " pitched its camp upon the rocky bluff that looks down upon the rail- road close by the ddp6t. It was a night of the wildest excitement in the streets of Frederick. Never again will the avenues resound with the same wild burst of enthusiasm — the clamor of an army mingled with the gladsome shouts of the populace, who seized upon every occasion to exhibit their practical loyalty to the starry banner, by extending with welcoming arms of hospitality every sort of kindness and liberality to the brave veterans who had unfurled its protecting stripes over their helpless heads. When the enemy took possession of the city not a Union flag and but very few rebel banners were to THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 127 be seen. The houses were universally shut in the faces of the traitors ; but when the Union forces ar- rived the streets bloomed out as profusely as a garden with flowers, and everywhere the army was received with a joyous outburst that will be remembered for many a day. Soldiers in the street were taken by the hand and invited to Bhare the evening meal just spread.* One Zouave met an old friend, the proprietor of a saloon. After being asked in he saw a bill of reward offered for a runaway slave posted on the wall. " I posted that up for the rebels," said the proprietor ; " but this" he continued, raising the paper, " I hung here for you, boys." There was displayed a colored engraving of the charge of the Hawkins Zouaves at Roanoke Island. It is sufficient to add that the Zouaves were favorites among all with whom they came in contact. • Note L iu Appendix. 12s THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Part Tenth JfHedetiich to Mx\i\eUm. ON the morning of the 13th, the regiment re^ orders to go out and support Kush's Ls who were endeavoring to push back the rebel vi and skirmishers, but unable to do so in the abse the necessary cooperation of infantry. "While p through the city the Zouaves displayed some ol best marching, and the applause of the congn multitude fully expressed their admiration of the lent soldierly qualities of men who conld exhil superiority of their drilling with such perfect n lance while moving immediately upon the enei being supposed at the time, and not without ation, that they were to fight a battle within th hour. They proceeded out of the city toward Je City, and soon arrived at the spot where tht cers had come to a halt in the face of the eneir was immediately ascertained that the rebels mountain howitzer in the road upon the hill i^ but with what force it was supported it w known. Companies C and I were sent to th( of the road, and B to the left, to deploy and a^ under cover as skirmishers, to be followed up THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 129 main force on the road. For a long -while the flank- ers advanced, removing huge obstacles that lay in the way, up hill and down, through wood and stream. The force on the right captured one rebel picket ; on the left a corporal gave rapid chase through a broken ravine for another of the enemy's pickets, who, how- ever, succeeded in making his escape. Fearing to be outflanked by this practical demonstration upon either side, the rebels adopted a precipitate retreat, using horses to haul the howitzer. They were eagerly pur- sued by the " Ninth," but fear lending the enemy un- iisual celerity, their escape became merely a matter ot speed. • Jefferson City was reached, arms stacked in the main street, and picket-guard thrown out around the vicinity. The inhabitants threw open their doors and shared their substance with the Zouaves, who were in- vited in. Milk, butter, and fruits, in great variety and abundance, were given by the people, and readily devoured by the hungry men. At about six o'clock in the evening the regiment resumed its arms, draw- ing in all the pickets, save that of Sergeant Jackson, who was unfortunately left on post with his men, and set about on the return, reaching Frederick about eleven o'clock at night, having marched about twen- ty-five miles, many of the skirmishers far overreach- ing that distance. Orders were received to be ready again to move at two o'clock the next morning, and the men imme- diately betook themselves to rest. But a fire in the city interrupted their repose, and the Zouaves turned out to act as firemen. The jail, in which a number 130 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: of prisoners were lodged was in flames ; some of the Zouaves surrounded it and prevented their escape, while others extinguished the fire; after which they once more lay down in their little tents. But it seemed as though they had scarce closed their eyes again when reveille was sounded, and they were obliged to rouse themselves once more. It was al- most impossible for them, in such an exhausted con- dition, to get up and " put on their armor ;" and it may be pardonable if they did it with less alacrity than usual, for it called for all the stern stiiff soldiers are made of. The sergeant of th^'guard that night writes that " it was almost impossible to keep awake ; but tired as I was, I dared not sit down for the fear of going to sleep if I allowed myself a moment's rest ; so I was forced to keep moving on my feet all the long night, and that too in the anticipation of marching all the next day — wondering how long it would be before I should drop down from sheer exhaustion. But only those who have tried it know what man is capable of enduring. It was almost futile to attempt to put on the third relief, for they were allowed to sleep a couple of hours, and as soon as one man was stirred up to duty another would go to sleep. The drum-corps, who were now ordered to beat reveille, were found to be in the same fix. I pulled them by the heels, raised them up and rolled them over, but to no purpose, I could not waken them; when a thought occurred to me — I seized a drum and beat it wildly about their ears, when suddenly they roused themselves, took their drums in the most mechanical manner, and beat the THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 131 reveille with only what little spirit was required to get out the rolls and flams." At about three o'clock in the morning of the 14th, the regiment left camp and passed out of the city, going by the way of Fairville and Jerusalem, arriving at Middletown near ten o'clock a.m. Marching up a portion of the heights that overlook the town, they pitched their tents, and were allowed to rest awhile. A few crackers and a little coffee were given them — some of the men devouring their whole rations before leaving the spot. Orders were received to strike tents again at two o'clock P.M., which they did in great haste and order, with some little desire to atone for their seeming tar- diness of the early morning, and took up their march in the direction of the battle in advance, which at this time was being opened briskly. The Zouaves forded a small stream at the foot of South-Mountain, and struck into a narrow and stony road leading up to the summit. When passing up its steep side they received intelligence of the contest from the wounded, who were fast being brought to the rear, "and," it was added, "the rebels are impudent and not afraid to show themselves." The " Ninth " preferred a frank, open fight, and pushed up the mountain vigorously, in the hope of reaching the field in time to engage themselves in the noble work of dislodging the enemy from his strong position. The way was tortuous and difiicult, and it was not until five o'clock in the after- noon that they reached the scene of conflict, when the Ohio division charged up the steep heights and drove the enemy back into the wood that covered the oppo- 132 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : site side of the mountain. The first brigade of Gen- eral Rodman's division ascended to the summit, and there lay quietly supporting a heavy battery, the " Ninth" on the right of the line. The enemy had concealed themselves in a close copse of laurel on the vrestern slope of the mountain, lying like a catamount in wait, and then sprang from their cover with great fierceness, making an impet- uous charge upon the battery, discharging their pieces at the moment they came in view of the force against whom they were to dash themselves. But it was only as the rush of breakers upon a huge rock — there was a great roar and considerable foam, but the adamantine wall stood fast and replied so violently that the surg- ing tide rolled back with great loss. The bullets for a moment filled the air, but all cleared away and the "stars" shone brilliantly in their azure field, seeming- ly brighter from the fire. About dark the regiment was put on picket to guard the extreme left of the army. Company K's battery was on the reserve, supported by several com- panies, and so stationed as to sweep any attacking party who should strive to force the picket-line. An incessant fire was kept up between General Reno's* command and the force of the enemy opposed to him for about two hours after dark"; but on the left all re- mained comparatively quiet throughout the night. On the following day the "Ninth" was relieved, remaining on the reserve. Rations were expected, but owing to the stupidity of some wagon-master * It waa at this time that the lamented Keno met his death. THEIR BATTLES AND M.VECHES. 133 were taken on the wrong road, and the men were obliged, notwithstanding the army had abundant supplies, to forage for what little they could obtain from corn and potato-fields previously gone over by rebels, and from the haversacks of tlie dead. From the latter some sugar and tough biscuits were taken. About five o'clock in the afternoon the " Ninth " was ordered forward again. At the top of the moun- tain they struck into the rough and narrow road before mentioned, and while going down the western side beheld a scene which gave horrible testimony to the severity of the conflict of the day before, and the disastrous loss of the enemy. The dead lay piled in heaps upon either side of the road, their faces ghastly and -black, and their bodies shrunk to skeletons. It was estimated that several hundreds had fallen in one spot. Their numbers were so great upon the road that it was necessary to remove them before passage could be made by the troops. The Zouaves, witli the rest of the corps, now pressed forward hotly upon the rear of the flying rebels, crossed Little Antietam Creek near Keedys- ville, forded another small stream, shortly afterward passing Locust Spring. The men were ready to drop from the excessive fatigue they had undergone for the past week, and it was thought judicious as well as humane to allow them a little rest. They were ac- cordingly much rejoiced when they learned that their labors were so fiear ended for that night, it being about eleven o'clock. They stopped at the foot of Red Hill and immediately prostrated thShiselves for repose, taking no time to make shelter, but wishing 7 134 THE HAWKIKS ZO0AVKS ! heartily for some rations with wliich to appease their hunger. But the wagons could nowhere be found, and therefore resolution was called for to fast yet awhile. On the morning following it was expected the "Ninth" would move again, and orders were re- ceived by Lieut.-Colonel Kimball to that effect ; but General Rodman, riding by at the time, was accosted by him, who said it would be utterly impossible for the "Ninth" to move an inch further without pro- visions. Whereupon the General inquired into their condition, and learning the facts, he expressed great astonishment and deep regret that the men had been the victims of such treatment in the midst of plenty. They should have rations of coffee and crackers as soon as they could be supplied. About this time a sergeant and corporal took their canteens and went below to Locust Spring to fill them ; having done so they returned through the orchard of Mr. Ghetting, near where some artillery lay parked. While leaping a fence the soldiers both at once espied a cracker lying upon the plowed ground, and both simulta- neously sprang for it. Seeing the movement, a gun- ner, who was standing near by, exclaimed : " What, are you red-heads so near starving as all that ! Come over in the field and you shall have as much as you can carry." The two Zouaves were directed to help themselves from half-depleted cracker-boxes. " O joy I" said they. The haversack brought with them was filled, their pockets crowded, and as they began stuffing their shirts to the waist-belt, said the sergeant, " I shall ttfke some to ray brother ; won't he be glad?" "And I," said the corporal, "will surprise ray mess- THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 135 mates wlieu I get back ; they shall have as many as they want." The gimner smiled slightly and wiped his eye with his coat-sleeve. When they reached camp they found that General Kodman had furnished the regiment rations— ^the quantity issued being one spoonful of coffee, one spoonful of sugar, and eight or ten crackers. About eight o'clock a.m. of the 16th, the rebels opened their batteries upon the Union forces, who replied vigorously ; the interchange of shot and shell lasting till eleven o'clock, when the enemy retired. The "Ninth" met with no severe loss. At five o'clock P.M. the regiment was again ordered forward, and after reaching the line of battle — already formed in the immediate front of the enemy — they were led ofi" by General Eodman to the left, and shortly after dark arrived at the extreme left of the army. The night was black as ebony, and gave promise of a storm. The flank was now led out further by one of the General's staff, the utmost caution being ob- served as they advanced, and the greatest silence maintained so that no noise that could be distin- guished for even a few rods was made. The other regiments of the brigade were conducted in the same silent manner, but somewhat to the rear, forming a sort of echelon by the flank on the " Ninth." The latter had now reached a piece of wood, along the edge of which they proceeded through a cornfield, but had gone only a few yards when a rushing sound, as of the heavy tramp of soldiery coming down the hill upon their left, warned every man to stand ready and firm to meet the supposed attack. " Fix bayo- 136 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: net ! " said Lieut.-Colonel Kimball. The order was executed almost before it was given, and the men stoutly faced the danger. General Rodman rushed to the spot, that he might take immediate charge of the coming conflict. Soon the command of " Halt, halt !" several times given was distinguished above the stifled clamor that now distinctly revealed the tramping ad- vance of a supposed enemy. A moment after and all was again quiet ; the Zouaves were confronted at only a few paces distant by the One Hundred and Third New- York Volunteers. But had the Germans continued to advance but a moment longer, they would surely have received a volley of musketry, and their proximity gives conception of the terrible slaughter that would have ensued. The regiment again proceeded forward, an advance-guard detached from Company B testing the safety of the ground ahead. Greater stealth was now assumed, for it was supposed the enemy were making the same maneuver in order to effect a flanking in the morning, should it be deemed possible or politic, and therefore it was anticipated that the two forces would soon come in contact with each other. But the position at first designed by the Union General was taken up without meeting the expected resistance, and the "Ninth" halted and lay on their arms. Shortly after, the Eighty-ninth and One Hundred and Third New- York Yolunteers followed the example of the Zouaves, and were placed on the extreme flank. It rained during the night. Eai-ly on the morning of the 17th the troops who had taken their station in the corn-field were ordered THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 137 to lie low, tiat the work of the night before might not readily be discovered. But owing to some careless- ness on the left of the brigade, the line was exposed to the searching glance of the rebels, who could be plainly seen on the opposite high bank of Antietam Creek. OiBcers, apparently of the staff, were seen to gallop up from behind the hill, take out their glasses, view the location intently, and after obtain- ing what view they desired, or what knowledge of the situation might be had, they posted back again in all haste; and soon the activity of the rebels in that quarter suggested the idea that they were placing a battery to dislodge the brigade. Picket-firing now began between the forces, and shortly after shells came flying wildly over the heads of the Federal troops. But the rebels were not long in getting range, so that after a few discharges the shells were dropped with some precision in the line of the First brigade, their fire being more particularly di- rected to the " Ninth," as their red caps were plainly visible. The firing from the enemy's battery finally became so severe that General Rodman thought it necessary to fall back a short distance, under cover of the hill and wood just in the rear. After the " Ninth " had lost fourteen men wounded, the order to execute the retrograde movement was given, and the whole brigade was faced about, and marched to the rear, while the shell came thicker and faster. "While the regiment was passing the open space upon top of the hill, a piece of railroad iron, about ten inches long, thrown from the enemy's gun, struck the ground and came dancing on with no very great speed, and while. 138 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : it took its general course for Lieut.-Colonel Kimball, it floundered about like a headless hen. At this com- ical sight the men were forced to laugh, though it was a missile of death. But he dashed the spurs into his horse, and succeeding in eluding it ; and it sank exhausted at the feet of the regiment. The life the cannon's breath had put in it was extinct. The force soon got under cover, and the rebels now, no longer retaining knowledge of their precise position, slack- ened iire, and at last ceased altogether. THEIR BATTLES AJTD MARCHES. 130 Part Eleventh ; ^ntietam to 3?leasant T^alleij, WHILE a great battle was being fought on the right and in the centre of the armj^, the great force which composed the left wing remained inactive during the fore part of the day. Had they been prop- erly used there is no doubt that the rebel army would have been completely destroyed. After noon the Third division was placed in line upon a hill sloping to Antietam Creek. On the left of the "IsTinth," Company K's battery was ordered into position ; and there the troops lay for a long time, anxiously awaiting the issue of the contest, which seemed dangerously suspended over their heads all the day. The weather was charming, and as the troops looked around upon the quiet scenery they could scarcely realize that a great battle was going on. The artillery of both sides, placed in line of battle for miles in extent, now opened upon each other with a furious discharge of shot and shell, making a most imposing as well as an awful sight. Skirmishing prevailed in the immediate front of the Third division, and the dead and wounded dotted the ground thickly. Company K's battery sent shell after shell into the 140 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: willows and pines that covered the opposite bank of the creek, and soon the dislodged enemy could be seen digging up the steep hill with fearful exertions to gain cover beyond. Some cavalry also further to the left were routed. The rebels evidently anticipated a movement by the Union troops under cover of this fire, for they immediately threw out their skirmishers upon the hill in order to feel any advance contemplated in that direction. But a few shell from Company K gave them a chance to smell the battle not afar off. They bowed a few times to the dust by way of acknow- ledging that the fire was well directed, and then retired more confused than graceful. General Sturgis had charged the bridge across the Antietam and carried it, and the Third division was now led forward to the ford below, to force a crossing at that point. The " Ninth" reached the place after struggling through the tangled wood and over the debris of broken rock and fallen trees, and at once sprang into the water, the sharp-shooters upon the heights beyond disputuig their efforts to cross. But the Zouaves pushed against the swift current, and scorning to halt for all other opposition, reached the opposite shore. The other regiments of the brigade crossed afterward, and ascending the hills on the left, drove back the rebels there lodged behind the stone walls, and whose fire was becoming too annoying to withstand when it was in the power of the Union troops to stop it. The " Ninth " then attempted to ascend the rocky and wooded cliff directly in their front, but their THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 141 eflbrts in that direction were unavailing ; for they had not proceeded far, when towering rocks that conld not be scaled confronted them,' and the regi- ment, therefore, was broken into detachments and sent to the right and left, in order to drive therefrom any rebels that might be secreted in the wood ; and in this manner, after overcoming many difficulties, they gained the summit, and effected a junction with the troops who had just forced the bridge and carried the heights beyond it by a murderous assault. A number of rebels, wounded, no doubt, by company K's shell, had been deposited by their comrades upon a stack of straw, which had taken fire when the pickets and sharp-shooters were dislodged. Some of them were literally roasted alive, when the ad- vent of the Union troops saved the others from a like fate. A grand and imposing line of battle was now formed by the troops composing the left wing of the army. For about the space of two hours all remained quiet in this position, and the soldiers looked well to their arms and ammunition. The rebels had apparently drawn back into their chosen position behind the stone walls, which they had strengthened until they were thought to be sufficiently formidable, their artil- lery opening as a prelude to the havoc which was about commencing. Shells were thrown wide of their mark at first, as though they had not ascertained the precise location of the Union forces. But it seemed no difficult mat- ter to judge of their whereabouts sufficient for the purpose of shelling, as it was known that they had, 142 TilE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: crossed the creek and had not passed over the hill either to the right or to the left ; consequently it must have been inferred that they lay just under the brow of the heights. And this was undoubtedly the con- clusion they had arrived at, for they persisted in throwing the shell, which every moment touched nearer and nearer the object aimed at. The artillery of General Burnside's corps, still remaining upon the hills east of the Antietam, replied to the rebel batter- ies with a savage spirit, and although inflicting much injury, was unable to suppress their fire, which now became more deadly to the troops of the Third divi- sion. The " Ninth " lay exceedingly low, many of the shell striking in front of them and ricocheting over their heads before exploding ; others, more un- fortunately, striking and bursting in the ranks, kill- ing and wounding half a dozen men at each dis- charge. Captain Gardner, formerly Assistant Adjutant-Gen- eral on the staff of General Parke, stood in the rear of Company H, a little down the hill, holding with considerable exertion his frightened horse by the bridle, when a small shell exploded between his head and that of his horse, the innumerable fragments scat- tering in all directions with a terrible whirr. Botli master and horse were blinded for a moment, and those who saw the incident expected to see them both fall torn in pieces, but instead, witnessed one of those narrow escapes which can only be ascribed to the marvelous protection of other powers than those of chance. The horse alone received a slight scratch on one of his legs. THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 143 Shortly after, a large shell burst directly araong the color-guard, piercing the colors in many places, killing three, wounding four, and the remaining cor- poral was rolled over and over down the hill for sev- ■ eral yards. Corporal Fink was badly bruised, and laid by for two weeks, his sufferings resembling rheu- matic pains. He rejoined his regiment, and was pro- moted to the rank of color-bearer. Lieut.-Colonel Kimball was impatiently walking up and down the line, anxious for the battle to begin, being firmly impressed with the presage that he would never be killed on the field of battle — and he was not. At length General Eodman came along, and after surveying the position for a moment, sent forward a company from the " Ninth " as skirmishers, and soon after they had engaged those of the enemy, who fell back, the Geueral gave the command of, " First bri- gade ! Forward !" Eagerly did the men spring to their feet ; and the activity with which they obeyed the order indicated the anxiety they had experienced to be delivered from the wearing suspense they were kept in all day. As they reached the top of the hill, they were openly ex- posed to the full sweep of the rebel batteries in front; and as they pushed on, they left their fallen comrades by the score upon the ground. But no enemy was yet to be seen, and another elevation was before them. Fences and other obstructions were to be surmounted, and many fell in the various attitudes of climbing. When they had approached the second hill, they trampled over several brigades lying under protection 144 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: of its favorable elevation. It seemed a secure place, none of the rebel batteries being able to reach it with their shell. Would the " Ninth" seek its cover? The thought might have suggested a refuge in such an hour of peril as a secure' retreat for — cowards. But it does not seem by their conduct that there was any disposition to avail themselves of the chance. They shouted along the line, as upon a former occa- sion, urging the inactive troops to rise up and rush upon the enemy, at the same time .the action of the Zouaves expressing their intention of taking the lead. Seeing that they did not stir, but cringed lower be- neath the rebel fire, the " Ninth " rushed forward. The regiment hurried on, and soon reached the top of the second hill, where again they were forced to face the tornado of shot and shell, now augmented by a battery the rebels had placed far to the right, cut- ting the Union troops with a severe enfilading fii-e. The Zouaves did not blench before this new destruc- tion, but impetuously pressed onward, that they might meet hand to hand a murderous foe they could not see, and whose fire they could not yet return, and put an end to a contest that presented every disadvan- tage. Men fell at every step, but still " Forward !" was the shout preceding their war-cry of " Zoo-zoo- zoo !" They passed down the descent that made a slight vale, and soon obtained the slope of the other hill in advance of them, where a halt was ordered to gain a moment's breath for the final requirements of the struggle, which all felt was near at hand. They had advanced a long distance on the double-quick, ^nd this occasion for a moment's respite to concen- THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 145 trate their scattered strength was most opportune and hnmane. Lieut.-Colonel Kimball ordered the bugler to blow the " assembly of the Ninth," which had late- ly been adopted ; it was done in a blast of three times three, the notes sounding clear and distinct above the din of cannon and bursting shells, and served not only the purpose of guiding those whose strength had not enabled them to keep up with the more hardy veterans, but also gave a shout of defiance to the enemy. They had a brief but never-to-be-forgotten opportunity of witnessing the terrible loss of life and blood this lengthy but rapid charge had cost. As far back as they could see, the track of the regiment was strewn with the slain, who dotted the earth. as so many footsteps of blood to the victory they were striv- ing for. "With each sigh for the fallen came addi- tional nerve to avenge them, as their eyes traversed again that ladder of death by which they had as- cended. Immediately in the rear of Company B was a group of four dead Zouaves, lying one across the other, as though they had stood side by side and fallen simul- taneously. One man went quickly to them and care- fully turned them aside, to look at their faces and see if life might be extinct — perhaps of a brother. He solemnly shook his head and again hastily returned to his duty. A little nearer, and behind Company H, lay a man wounded in a most frightful manner. The lower portion of his jaw had been carried away, and the torn fragments that remained, together with his tongue, clotted with gore, hung down upon his breast. He sustained himself with one hand while 146 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: with the other he proudly waved his fez in the air, ■ an action that interpreted the language of his heart — " fallen, but not conquered." " See that !" exclaimed Lieut.-Colonel Kimball, pointing excitedly with his sword ; " isn't that enough to make you fight ?" The men looked at each other, and the tears that then mingled, and which the hot and hissing shell could not stanch, seemed red with sympathetic blood. The" command " Forward !" was again given, and the " Ninth," in line with the whole division, once more advanced, ascending the third elevation, which was but a gentle rise upon the main portion of the heights. Up to this time they had received the fire of artillery only, and had not returned a shot ; but as they arrived near the top of the ascent, several bri- gades of rebel infantry, wliich were posted behind the stone walls, opened at once a galling storm of bullets upon them. A scene of carnage now ensued too ter- rible to describe ; the imaghiation, however, may be aided by the statistics, which estimate that from the ranks of the " l^inth " alone there fell, in the space ot a few minutes, about two hundred men killed and wounded. The walls in front fairly bristled with tlie muskets of the enemy. The Zouaves were or- dered strictly to retain their fire until they should have approached within whispering distance of the rebels, then to give them a hot fire of " Minie';" after- ward to rush upon them with the cold, bright bayo- net and finish the work. Therefore, up to this time they had withheld their fire; but when a stalwart rebel raised himself head and shoulders over the wall, THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 147 opposite Company H, every man who saw the act in the two right companies instantly and simnltane- ously raised his rifle and sent a bullet at the audacious foe. He waB afterward found with about a dozen balls in his head. This started the blaze of musketry along the whole line, for the left, hearing the volleys, supposed the order had been given to "commence firing ;" for the din of battle was so great, a command could be heard only by a few. The right wing fol- lowed tlie same action for a similar reason ; and the fire of the enemy was now returned to them with such fierceness that there was scarcely a hole in the wall that was not pierced, and a finger could not be raised above it without fear of amputation. The " Ninth " still advanced, though they had already approached within fifty yards of the rebel brigade, many of which lay stretched out in death since the Zouaves began to fire. Although the regiment was well-nigh exhausted before it reached this spot, yet when they saw the implacable foe almost within their grasp, it sent renewed vigor to their hearts and new strength to their nerves, and on, still on they rushed, maddened at the thought of their fallen comrades. The enemy until this moment had felt comparatively - secure behind the wall, but now had some misgivings about their safety, when the men whom they sup- posed they could easily repulse still came on with renewed determination, and they scattered in flight like so many leaves. A scene of the wildest confusion took place when the Zouaves surmounted the wall. Some of the ene- my begged for mercy on the spot, while others resist- 148 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: ed with right good-will, using the bayonet, for few, in such close contact, could get the chance to re-load their pieces. Th' se who ran away were quickly reached with bullets, and many fell in their cowardly flight ; others threw down their arms to save their lives by submission. The Zouaves now had it all their own way, and all along the line startling inci- dents occurred sufficient to fill a volume. The colors of the regiment were nobly taken care of. Sergeant Myers, the color-bearer, had been wounded, and fell, but upheld the flag until he was relieved by another, who was soon shot. Another seized the standard and bore it but a little way wlien he also fell. A very young Zouave next grasped it firmly, and with the most undaunted courage ran out many yards in advance of the line, and thus becom- ing a single mark, fell with many bullets piercing him. Another and another bore the colors, but both were wounded. Eight men successively carried it. and each fell, killed or wounded. But it was tri- umphantly planted upon the spot the enemy liad occupied, and who were now upon a hill beyond. They had been heavily reinforced by troops throwr from their left, and the two forces now did but littlt more than look at each other. Had the Union troopi again assaulted them in their new and strong posi tion, they would undoubtedly have met with a bloody repulse, without the assistance of those idle brigades which should have been used on the flank ; and fo this reason the left of the Federal forces fell gentl; back into a position where their artillery could b efi'ectively used. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 149 Among the prisoners captured were some few of the Third Georgia — one of them a captain, who fell into the hands of the Zouaves at the battle of Cam- den — which was plain evidence that the "Ninth" had met the same regiment three times in fierce, mor- tal combat, (not including the battle of Chicomocom- ico, where they came so near meeting,) in each en- gagement defeating it badly, and capturing a number of its men. It is related by a Zouave who lost a leg at the battle of Camden, and who fell into the hands of the rebels, that when he was transported from South-Mills- to Norfolk, he was placed in company with some of the wounded of the Third Georgia, who were not in very placid humor after their defeat on the nineteenth of April ; and while in conversation with them, they stated that they had been extremely anxious to meet the Hawkins Zouaves since the bat- tle of Eoanoke, where they did not have a fair fight, beiug scart out of it ; but they thought now that the " Third " might rest contented with every desire in that respect gratified. It may be presumed, there- fore, that at the battle of Antietam, where the Geor- gians were behind the stone-wall, the appearance of the " Ued-caps " did not infuse among them a super- fiuous degree of confidence in a favorable termination of the combat ; and their sudden flight, together with the loss they sustained, argues strongly that they had not retracted the opinions expressed after the Camden fight. The " Ninth " bivouacked at night in the face of the enemy, and altliough they numbered some three hundred and fifty men less than in the morning of 150 " THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES the day, and there was not a mess throughout the ■whole regiment that did not sadly miss its mates, yet so exhausted were they by the loss of strength wasted in the late struggle that they lay down upon the groimd and wrapped themselves in sound slumber, nor " dreamed of home," nor '• in visions fought their bat- tles over again," to " show how fields were won ;" but it was that quiet sleep soldiers can take when they know that they may rest — " their wai'fare o'er." But the night passed, and the next day dawned upon the battle-field, gladdening the hearts of the suffering wounded, who lay helpless between the lines, watching for the first peep of daylight across the Antietam. A single shell from the enemy whiz- zed through the air, but met with no response from the Union side. The regiment was sent out on pick- et, and the excitement of picket-firing was indulged in to the extent of a few wounded. In the afternoon it was relieved by a New- York regiment. Company K had taken up a position on a high hill commanding the enemy's situation, and had done ex- cellent service, dropping a continual stream of shell into their line of skirmishers and their supporters, driving them back twice with great loss. The com- pany forded the creek under a heavy fire, and, after expending all their ammunition in the hot contest, re- crossed it ; when they were detailed by General Burn- side as sharp-shooters, which position they occupied all night of the seventeenth, and all day of the eight- eenth. The regiment had recrossed the Antietam, and on the night of the eighteenth bivouacked near a hospi- THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. ]yl tal, which had just been established. On the day fol- lowing, oi'ders were received to move again immedi- ately. About eleven o'clock a.m. the line was formed, and they started forward, crossing the creek, and then passed over the battle-field, which had been occupied by the enemy fox some time. The dead were being buried and the wounded removed into hospitals, as fast as possible, by the men detailed for that purpose. The dead had been stripped by the rebels of almost every thing that could be turned to their service, and many indignities were suffered by those who were too badly crippled to drag themselves off ; while there are many instances also where individuals received mag- nanimous attention from the enemy. But all alike suffered the loss of purse and such garments as the rebels thought might easily be spared to those who were less provided for. Many of the wounded were suffering far more than they otherwise would on accoimt of their exhausted condition when they entered the fight, and many, no doubt, were dying for that same reason ; but by far the greater number of deaths after the battle occurred from a very different and entirely useless cause. The rebels were completely defeated, and a little further vigorous use of the bayonet would have routed or captm-ed the whole force, and their army must have been destroyed. But the cowardice or treachery of the Commanding General permitted them to escape, and, so to speak, furnished the crutches with which they were to attempt a decent retreat. The Union forces had " fallen gently back," and our wounded lay between the two lines, suffering all sorts of paiji 152 THE HAWEINS ZOUAVES: and agony, wondeiing what imbecility could be so in- human as to leave them in such a critical condition between two fires. But the danger of being again wounded, and perhaps killed, was insignificant in com- parison with the probabilities of death by sheer ne- glect. The army should have been pushed ahead and these men rescued ; and in the performance of such a humane duty they would have found the enemy so enfeebled that his capture must have been certain. No more troops were necessary. A victory, mantled with the red fiush of battle, would have inspirited the soldiery to a gi'eater triumph. Every thing was pro- pitious for complete success. In view of this the General was as strictlj' commanded as Moses at the Ked Sea : " Speak unto them* that they go forward !" It was not a question of ability — that had already been discharged by the soldiers, who now looked to their General to save what they had harvested ; but he stood idly by, and saw the enemy carry ofi" the fruits of victory, when the one word " Forward !" from him was all that was needed. But no ; triumph was to be limited to results scarcely more gratifying than those of defeat. Those who had lost their limbs and spilled their blood to gain success must lie upon the field, torn, still bleeding, hungry, thirsty, and dy- ing by hundreds, because their General was too cow- ardly to close with the enemy and save them from such a teiTible fate. The " Ninth " marched onward, turning down the creek to the left, and after proceeding about six miles, * Tlixm — " the children of Israel." THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 153 again pitched camp, immediately on the banks of the Antietam. The enemy had fallen back from his posi- tion, and was nsing his utmost endeavors to avoid an- other conflict. Large reinforcements had arrived, with which he could be closely pursued, and the vet- erans were allowed a partial rest ; and the Zouaves now lay back on their laurels for a few days ; but they still found abundant occupation in washing their clothes and cleansing their persons ; for so actively had they been engaged the past few weeks that scarcely so much as a shoe had been removed. On Sunday, September twenty-first, the regiment was regularly inspected, and their appearance highly complimented by the inspecting officers for perfection of discipline and tidiness about quarters, though various articles of clothing and equipment were want- ing. Colonel Hawkins had arrived at the headquarters of the regiment, being welcomed with much cheering and other noisy demonstrations of joy. He was much pleased with the cleanliness of his own men ; the well-brushed clothes, neatly-cut hair, shining accou- trements, and well-polished shoes, deserved attention. But when he was obliged to turn his eyes from this to other portions of his command, he could not ab- stain from expressions of disgust ; and while always desirous of according to merit the just praise it de- mands, on the other hand he would not withhold the censure which slovenliness and filth invoke. It is not necessary to locate the offenses which arose from neg- ligent camps, irregular in every thing but indecency ; biit let it suffice to say that it existed in such palpa- 15-i THE HAWKINS ZOTTAVES: ble form as to draw from him a justly deserved order, bitter to all filth, but sweet- to all cleanliness. It was evidently fruitful of some effect, and must have been felt by all parties, for upon the twenty-fourth of the month the promulgator was placed under arrest for issuing the same. On the twenty-third. Company K, Captain Morris, was detached by General Burnside from the regiment, and sent to Bolivar Heights. The admirable manner in which their battery was handled, and the merito- rious service it had performed under the eyes of the General rendered it a favorite with him, and there- fore it was frequently selected to engage in some ar- duous undertaking, or go on souie daring reconnois- sance ; and the faithful manner in which they always conducted themselves encouraged the General to remember them in the future. The location of the camp at Sharpsburgh did not contain accommodations requisite for the sanitary con- dition of the men, and the Colonel deemed it prudent to move to some spot which offered the advantages required ; and as the whole army was slowly moving across the Potomac, a change of camp in that direc- tion was alike favorable to the welfare of the regi- ment and in conformity with the progress of other divisions of the army. Accordingly, the " Ninth " was marched across the Antietam, and proceeded on the Harper's Ferry road, until, having made a dis- tance .of seven miles, they pitched camp near the Antietam Iron Works. Here was found abundance of good water, an essential element for the comfort and health of the men. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 155 The regiment had suflFered greatly for the want of meats and vegetables, and many of the men for that reason were wholly unfit for duty. They were always assured that there was an abimdance somewhere, and that it was coming ; so when the train arrived on Sunday, well laden with the much-needed provisions, they were hailed the loudest by those whose lungs were supposed to be weakest for want of them. On the third of October, President Lincoln re- viewed the " Ninth," and complimented them very highly in the hearing of many distinguished generals. On Sunday, the fifth, the band of the regiment, in full uniform, went down to the hospital, and spent the day in playing for the pleasure of the wounded, who were greatly cheered by the fine music, and were very thankful for it. In camp, the same day, papers were received con- taining accounts and illustrations of the charge of the Zouaves at Antietam. They differed from each other in some respects, but aU were unanimous in the be- stowal of honor so nobly earned. Says the Spirit of the Times : " This brilliant and decisive bayonet- charge was made about five o'clock in the afternoon of Wednesday, the seventeenth of September, and will add to the already well-deserved fame of this ad- mirably-disciplined regiment, which has been pro- nounced by a high military authority ' as a very lucky one.' . . . We may mention as a proof of Colo- nel Hawkins's esprit du corps, that when Governor Morgan endeavored to thrust a disreputable friend of his upon the regiment f||j a captain, to fill up a va- cancy, Hawkins positively refused to recognize the 156 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Governor's authority ; and, backed by his officers, he triumphed over that official, although the Governor was supported by General Williams and others. Whenever our men are treated with the respect due to the dignity of freemen, an American regiment may he hilled, but it can not be conquered." On the 6th of October, the " Ninth '^ received or- ders to cook their rations, and prepare for another march ; and on the 7th, about half-past nine a.m., tents were struck, the line formed, and the regiment got under way, Colonel Hawkins being in command of the division. It was an up-hill route nearly all the way, and although the men started out fresh and buoyant, yet the steepness of the ascent called for such excessive toil from them, equipped as they were in heavy marching order, that a halt for the pui-pose of resting was ordered several times before reaching the summit of the mountain, which is called the Elk ridge. As the regiment stopped for the second time to recover breath, they beheld the ground they had passed over stretched out at their feet, the varied landscape reaching far and wide, and painted in the many hues of autumn, as though summer's floral sun was setting, and blossoming its last and sweetest flow- ers. General Burnside was observed ascending the mountain ; and as" he approached the troops, they all bounded to their feet with instinctive homage, and greeted him with prolonged cheers and the waving and throwing up of hats. After he had passed up, the " JSTinth " again fell in to the sound of the bugle, and following up the wincing and precipitous route, at length reached the summit, where they drew in re- THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 157 freshing draughts of the pure western wind ; and as they reclined beneath the spreading chestnut-trees and ate their rations, they bent their observation for- ward and below into Pleasant Valley, which they were soon to occupy with their camp. The colusan was soon again in motion descending the other side of the ridge, and after proceeding a few miles further, halted by -the side of the road, near a running stream of water. The location was a very desirable one in almost every respect. 8 luS THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Part Twelfth : Ipleasant "i^aUeD to i^'almouth. THE regiment remained at this place for some time. The rations were insufficient, and the weather extremely cold, so that the men could not help suffer- ing a great deal. On the 2ith, Major Jardine rejoined the " Ninth," having been relieved of the command of the Eighty- ninth New- York Volunteers, which office he had filled since leaving Washington. By his soldierly conduct and gentlemanly behavior, he had endeared himself to the men of that regiment, and they ex- ceedingly regretted his departure from them, inas- much as it threw them again under the command of a dissipated officer, whom they could not respect. The camp at Pleasant Valley was left on the 28th, and the regiment, equipped in heavy marching order, entered upon a long and tedious march. Many of the men were in want of shoes, and marching in such a state over the cold, stony ground did not add any pleasurable excitement to the occasion. But they were accustomed to long and rapid marches un- der many disadvantages, and they were prepared to meet with fortitude the present inconveniences. Though there were individual cases of complaint and THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 159 giving out, yet there prevailed an average buoyancy among the men. They passed through Welverton and Knoxville, reaching Berlin on the Potomac just before noon. At this point they crossed a pontoon, and were soon all on Virginia soil. After a brief de- lay they pagsed on ; and when they had proceeded about one mile beyond Lovettesville, they came to a halt and pitched their camp. A number of recruits here joined the regiment, be- ing picked men from great numbers raised in New- York. By a slow but continual process of recruiting, the depleted ranks of the "Ninth" were gradually being tilled up, the officers discharging the duties of enlistment being particular in regard to the moj^l character of the men received. On the 30th, just after sunrise, tents were struck, and the men were once more in motion, crossing the northern branch of Catoctin Creek, which has its source in Vestal's Gap. They soon passed through Morrisonville, and reaching Wheatland, they ei^camp- ed in the woods near a stream of water. On the following day. Company G, commanded by Captain Childs, was detached from the regiment, by order of General Burnside, and proceeded back to Lovettesville, to act as body-guard to the General, which position they continued to occupy until the 26th of January, 1863. The First Brigade, composed of the Ninth, Eighty- ninth, and One Hundred and Third New- York Volun- teers, and the Tenth New-Hampshire Volunteers, was called out on the 1st of November, for the purpose of en- gaging in a brigade drill. Each regiment, as it arrived 160 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : upon the ground selected, took up its proper position ; and when all was in line, Colonel Hawkins rode oppo- site the centre and took command of the force, which presented a fine appearance, each battalion showing its best under the eye of a commander whose rebuke they studied carefully to avoid, but whose slightest praise they eagerly coveted. At length the brigade began to move, executing the orders with promptness and precision ; and many of those who had previously published the Colonel's incompetency to manage a regiment, had now a fine opportunity of witnessing in what an absurd attitude the error stood. It needed but one such occasion to put to flight all doubt as to tli« ability of the Colonel to completely maneuver the troops under his command ; and it inspired the men with fuller confidence in their leader, although more than they had already exhibited was scarcely looked for. Immediately after the brigade was dismissed, the men were ordered to hold themselves in readiness to move again at short notice. Heavy artillery firing in the direction of Snicker's Gap gave the order un- usual significance, and under the circumstances the troops thought that the battle they had long consid- ered imminent was about to take place. A detail was sent to Harper's Ferry to procure clothing for the men, as there was great necessity for uniforms. The next day the regiment, in heavy marching or- der, started out on the road, and proceeded in a direc- tion parallel with the Blue Ridge. The small town of Purcellsville was passed through about one o'clock THEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES. 161 P.M., after which the roar of artillery was more dis- tinctly heard, increasing in violence until they had crossed the north fork of Goose Creek and arrived near Snickersville, when it ceased, the rebels having been driven from the Gap. After a short rest the march was continued, and when night had set in they came to a halt near the town of Union, not far from Beaver Dam creek. Fires were made of the rails from the fences, and various groups of soldiers could he seen making their coffee. Many of the men con- tented themselves with swallowing a morsel of food from the haversack, and then lay down, too much worn out with the fatigue of the day to care for a more plenteous repast, when its preparation called for additional toil. On the 3d they were again on the march. They passed the creek, and took the road for TJpperville, at which place they encamped, having made a short march of twelve miles. Heavy cannonading was heard all the day, retreat- ing as the Union forces advanced, the rear of the one party and the advance of the other being engaged almost continually, keeping those who were a little further removed from the scene of conflict in a con- stant state of alarm and preparation. • The weather was getting very cold, and the " Ninth " was not yet prepared to meet it, and the frequent removal from one place to another denied all opportunity of erect- ing proper shelter for protection from the elements. On the same day. Captain Morris, of Company K, took a section of his battery and joined a brigade un- der General Kautz, for the purpose of making a re- 162 THE HAWEINS ZOUAVES: coniioissance. They proceeded far up the Shenandoah river, but failed to draw any attention from the reb- els, who were too busy elsewhere. The movement was without more interest than was derived from the pleasure of making an agreeable trip. Early in the morning of .the 5th, the regiment was ordered again on the march, and after a monotonous tramp, which lasted all day, they reached Rector- town, where they encamped for the night. The next day this place was left far behind, the regiment proceeding in a southerly direction, passing through the town of Orleans. While General Getty, commanding the Third division of the Ninth Army Corps, was riding through the town some unknown miscreant fired a bullet at him ; but fortunately the ball whistled harmlessly by. So incensed were the Zouaves that the dastard should attempt the life of a commander they loved so much, that had the search for his capture proved successful, he would undoubt- edly have been executed upon the spot. It being ascertained that lurking parties of rebels had banded together in' the neierhboring wood for the purpose of falling upon defenseless squads of Union soldiers, the " Nintli " was ordered to proceed to the infected quarter to clear them out. After going a few miles from the town they deployed skirmishers, and used every precaution to entrap the wary rebels ; but they retreated as the Zouaves advanced. Find- ing it useless, after a weary tramp over hills and through woods, they returned to camp near Thumb river, where they remained over night. The next day, the regiment being under orders to THEIR BATTLES AND MAKCHES. 163 be ready for marching, tlie men built their fires and crowded around them, patiently waiting, while they discussed the movements of the army. The weather was extremely cold, and a heavy snow-storm was pre- vailing. Keports of fighting circulated more freely than their blood ; and the time was passed in various ways until about one o'clock p.m., when knapsacks were slung, and they left Orleans, taking the turnpike^ leading south, and proceeding on it until they arrived at Carter's Creek, when they encamped by Gaskin's Mills, near Waterloo. On the day following, the detail from Harper's Ferry arrived, bringing the report that they were un- able to procure the clothing so much needed. In the afternoon of the 10th an alarm was sounded in camp, and the " Ninth " fell in quickly, and were soon led out on the advance toward the point of dan- ger, followed by the rest of the division, when they formed in line of battle under a hill. The rebels, not liking this formidable demonstration, turned aboiit and fled precipitately across the Hedgeman river, in the direction of Corvin's Cross-Roads. But fearing their return with reinforced ranks, the General gave orders that the " Ninth " should remain in the posi- tion they had taken up. No fires were allowed, and many lacked sufiicient clotliing to keep them warm ; to add to the discomfort, there was nothing to eat. The nfght seemed a long one, fop the sufi'erings of the men were excessive. About ten o'clock the next day, the " Ninth " re- turned to their camp at Gaskin's Mills. Orders were read out on parade that General Burnside, in accord- 164 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: ance with orders from the War Department, had as- sumed command of the Army of the Potomac. Af- ter dismissal much rejoicing was manifested in regard to the order. * The regiment was again obliged to pass another night without any hard bread. Reveille was sounded unusually early on the morn- ing of the loth. Tents were struck at five a.m., and the regiment left camp, making a halt after it had proceeded but a short distance. It was ascertained that the enemy were hovering about in strong force, only awaiting a favorable opportunity' to attack tlie division and capture its train. Companies B and II of the " Ninth," and one company from each of the other regiments in the brigade, were sent out as an advance to keep in check any movement made by the rebels. The " Xinth " was put in line of battle to support Benjamin's battery. At about twelve o'clock the enemy made an unsuccessful assault with artillery upon the wagon-train, but were driven back from their position by the battery. At two o'clock P.M., the regiment again marched, and in the latter part of the afternoon pitched tents near the Warrenton Sulphur Springs. Sunday, the 16th, was not a day of rest for the Zouaves ; the wagon-train being sent out at five o'clock a.m., they started soon afterward, crossing Great river, passing Fayette and Liberty ; then march- ing around Warrenton Junction, they encamped near the railroad. On the 17th, the regiment left the Junction, and marched to Steepletown. THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 165 The next day the men were up at three o'clock a.m., moving forward, and at night were encamped within ten miles of Fredericksburgh. It rained all day of the 19th. In the morning the " J^inth " marched from camp, and just before noon passed through Falmouth, and toiling over the first hill south-east of the railroad, went into camp upon the second, and at once commenced making them- selves comfortable. * For a long time the regiment had marched nearly every day, and the men, having been allowed so little rest through the nights, were now almost worn out. The monotony of the march was now to be relieved by a few weeks of camp life. The rebels had made a stand upon the heights back of Fredericksburgh, and the indications were that a battle would soon be fought. 8* 106 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES; Part Thirteenth : Ifalmouth to $u«olb. ON the 20tli of the month Company i regiment. The weather was ex and rain was almost continually falling troops far more uncomfortable than is into account by those who merely ref lists of killed and wounded, without one the bitter hardships endured up to the limb. On the night of December 10th or ceived to prepare to march early in The Zouaves retired to rest, and about A.M. of the eleventh they were quietly the guard, for no reveille was allowed They were furnished with rations and t spected, after which they remained in re hours. The artillery on the heights ope enemy, and the troops were in momen tion of being called upon to engage in . conflict. The rebel sharp-shooters in 1 trying to prevent the laying of pontoons them the Federals directed their arti great number of the houses were com^ ished, THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 167 At four o'clock in the afternoon, the " JSTinth " was marched to the heights opposite the city, with the ex- pectation of crossing one of the pontoons which had been thrown over the river ; but they waited long and anxiously in vain, and were marched back to camp after dark, through the deep mud, weary and disgusted with all they had seen of the battle €0 far. They had just made themselves comfortable, each man disposed of for the night, when they were or- dered to march to the lower pontoon. After wading through the mud again they reached it, and crossed the river into the city. . The regiment countermarched and formed in line of battle, afterward bivouacking in the main street. Company D had been hastily thrown forward as picket, and a. guard, imder Lieu- tenant "Webster, was posted in the suburbs of the lower part of the town. Notwithstanding the troops were in the face of the enemy, there was no excite- ment to keep the blood warm, and fires were not per- mitted. At length the cold, bitter night wore away, and as soon as daylight appeared the artillery again opened upon the rebels, who remained comparatively quiet until about three o'clock in the afternoon, when they replied vigorously, the " Ninth " receiving a por- tion of their fire, and also sustaining considerable loss from defective shells thrown by the Union forces. Some time after dark they were sent out on picket, where they quietly remained until the next morning, when they returned to the city. The battle began again, this time raging with all the. fierceness of a heavy conflict. Corps after corps was engaged with the enemy, and the slaughter was terrible, Thou- 168 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Bands of brave men had fallen, and the battle was yet undecided, when just before dark. Colonel Hawkins received orders to charge upon and carry one of the enemy's works with his brigade, which was composed of the " Ninth," Eighty-ninth, and One Hundred and Third New- York Volunteers, and the Tenth and Thir- teenth . JSTew-Hampshire, and the Thirty-fifth New- Jersey. The " Ninth " had been sent to a different part of the field " through a misapprehension of or- ders." The order was given, and the brigade began to advance, making but slow progress, for a deep slough and sevei'al other impediments were to be passed over. But these were overcome, and the troops charged in splendid .style for some distance, until an old, half fiUed-up canal-cut presented a serious obsta- cle to their further advance, the enemy in the mean time cutting them up badly with a severe enfilading fire. The line was now considerably broken^ and a great deal of promiscuous firing took place among the men. The sun had set, and it was now dark. At this time the grandest scene of the battle was to be witnessed. The fire on both sides was still kept up, and the air was brightly illuminated with a grand pyrotechnic display. The darkness put an end to the battle, and it became necessary to withdraw the troops of the whole division, which was done, the " Ninth " rejoining the brigade in the city. Colonel Hawkins's report contains a concise and correct account of the engagement of the brigade. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 169 Falmouth, Va., Dec. 19, 1862. Bkig.-Genekal George W. Getty, Commanding Third Division Ninth Army Corps : General : I have the honor to report that on the evening of the 10th instant I received orders to send a regiment to support the engineers who were to commence laying the bridges across the river opposite the town of Fredericksburgh. Early the next morning the Eighty -ninth New- York Volunteers was orddted for that duty. The regiment took up its position about two o'clock on the morning of the 11th instant, where it remained, receiving and returning the fire of the enemy from the opposite side of the river until about four o'clock in the afternoon. At that time Gen- eral Burnside gave orders for a detail of one hundred men from the regiment to cross the river in batteaux, for the purpose of dislodging the enemy, who were in rifle-pits and houses. The detail was made and placed under the charge of Captains J. Hazley, S. L. Judd, F. Brutt, and Lieut. W. M. Lewis. The whole party immediately embarked in four batteaux, and under a heavy fire of musketry pushed across and landed upon the opposite shore, where they captured sixty-four prisoners, includ- ing four commissioned officers. A short time after, the balance of the regiment were sent across in the batteaux, and the two detachments being joined together, proceeded to the main street of the city, when they threw out pickets and bivouacked for the night. Too much praise can not be bestowed upon the oflicers and men who so gallantly made the passage of the river. It was owing to their daring and boldness that our engineers were en- abled to complete the bridge, which they had been at work upon since three o'clock ; and I trust that favorable mention may be made of this occurrence, so that it may be known, for all time to come, who they were that performed one of the most daring exploits of the war. The brigade, after waiting all day of the llth instant under arms, expecting to cross the river, finally received an order, about five o'clock p.m., to return to camp. This we obeyed, and had been in camp about fifteen minutes when we received an- 170 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: other order to cross the river. We accordingly got under arms, and about nine o'clock p.m. had arrived in Fredericksburgh, tak- ing possession of the lower part of the town, and then proceed- ing to throw out pickets, which connected with General Howard's line on the right. Nothing of importance occurred, and no duty was performed other than that of picketing in front of our lines and guard and patrol duty, until about five o'clock p.m. of the 13th instant, when the whole brigade was ordered into action. My brigade was ordered to attack the right centre of the ene- my's line of works. Joining on the left of General Couch's line, the brigade commenced to move toward the point of attack, and when about ofle third of the way a halt was made at the railroad- cut, where the brigade was re-formed and a new start taken. By this time it had become quite dark- — in fact, so much so, that we could not see a hundred yards before us. But still the order was given to move forward, and the whole brigade soon passed a deep, wide mud slough, reaching a deep canal-cut. Upon ar- riving at this canal-cut the brigade received an enfilading fire from the enemy's artillery and infantry ; but notwithstanding, the plateau on the other side was gained, the left of the line ad- vancing till within about ten yards of a stone wall, behind which a heavy infantry force of the enemy was concealed, who opened an increased artillery and musketry fire, and in addition to this the brigade received the fire of the Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers and Twentieth Maine Volunteers, who were on the left of General Couch's line, which our right had overlapped. Tliis firing from all parties and all directions, I should think, lasted about seven minutes, when I succeeded in stopping it, and then discovered that every body, fi-om the smallest drum- mer-boy up, seemed to be shouting to the full extent of their capa- city. After considerable exertion, comparative quiet and order were restored, and the command re-formed along the bank of the canal-cut. I then reported to you for further orders, and you ordered the command withdrawn and placed in its former posi- tion in the town, which was done. Owing to a misapprehension of your orders, the Ninth New-York Volunteers was ordered to THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 171 the support of a battery, and did not participate in the advance made by the brigade. The brigade remained at Frodericksburgh until the night of the 15th instant, when it returned to the former camp on this side of the river. Before closing this report I think it my duty to say that the brigade did as well as could be expected under the circumstances. Even with experienced troops and well-concerted measures there will be more or less confusion incident to an advance in the dark ; and when the nature of the ground is taken into consider- ation, and likewise the fact that two thirds of the men had never been under flre before, they are certainly deserving of commen- dation for having behaved as well as they did. Our loss in the brigade amounted to — killed, twelve ; wounded, one hundred and seventy-seven ; missing, fifty-four. Total, two hundred and forty-three. A complete list is herewith inclosed. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers, Commanding First Brigade Third Division Ninth Army Corps. On Sunday, the 14tli, the " Ninth was sent out on picket, where rapid firing was kept up all day on both sides, so that it was almost impossible to relieve the different posts. They were relieved, and again returned to the city, taking up their quarters in the houses, where they remained until the evening of the next day, when, after waiting under orders for several hours, they marched across the river in great secrecy, and took up quarters in their former camp about midnight. The regiment was sent on picket again, and after returning once more to camp, they were ordered to get ready for review. During the review. General Sumner rode opposite to the centre of the " Ninth," 172 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: which was drawn up in line, and asked, " What regi- ment is that ?" " The Ninth New- York, General." " They aee the first soldiees I have seen in six- teen YEAEs," replied the General. He had seen one • or more of the old regular regiments together during the war with Mexico, and it is presumed this regi- ment reminded him of one of them. On the morning of the 26th, Company F, Captain Hammill, arrived from Plymouth, and marching into camp, rejoined the regiment. They were cheered heartily, and for a while treated as guests among the companies. Lieutenant Green was taken by the hand, as they remembered how he charged the rebels and drove •them from Plymouth, and he was repeatedly called upon to give his own story of the fight. On Sunday, the 28th, the regiment was reviewed by General Burnside. A review was also ordei-ed on the 6th of January, 1863, but, owing to a heavy rain, it did not take place, the regiment being dismissed upon the arrival of the General. On both occasions the same praise was given as the General had before frequently expressed. The regiment now continued to go on picket every few days, while they were under orders to move at short notice, cooked rations being kept constantly on hand for that purpose. On January 26th, Company G, Captain Childs, re- turned from detached service as General Burnside's bodyguard, and rejoined the regiment. * General Hooker about this time assumed command of the Army of the Potomac. Major Jardlne took command of the Ninth New- Tork. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 173 On the lib. day of February the Zouaves struck their tents in a hurry, marched to the railroad d^pot, where they sprang into the cars, starting shortly for Acquia Creek, where they arrived in a short time, and went on board the steamer Robert Morris. Early the next morning the transport started down the Potomac, arriving at Fortress Monroe about noon, where anchor was dropped and the regiment re- mained until ten o'clock a.m. of the 9th, when they went to Newports News. The barracks at that place, which had been used as stables, were given them for quarters, and after the filth had been cleaned out by a detail of men, the Zouaves occupied them. On the 10th the " Ninth " was detailed as provost- guard, and Major Jardiue appointed chief provost- marshal. Some time after. Colonel Hawkins took command of his own regiment, preferring to give them his spe- cial attention, though the additional duties were ex- tremely toilsome. Headquarters Ninth New-Yokk Volunteers, Newpoets News, Va., Feb. 28, 1863. 1 Special Order, ) } No. 24. ■( In addition to the duties of brigade commander, I hereby as- sume command of the Ninth New-York Volunteers. Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel, etc., etc. Thomas L. Bartholomew, Post-Adjutant. The Fifty-first regiment New- York Volunteers Base Ball Club challenged the Hawkins Zouave Base 174 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : Ball Club, and the match was played on the 4th of March — a very cold day. Tlie game was called at ten o'clock a.m., and was hotly contested for about four hours. Much excitement was manifested at the close of the last inning, when the Zouave club came out three runs ahead. The second nines played a match on the 7th, the Zouaves again the winners, taking two thirds of the runs on the score. The first nines again played a match on the 24th. At the close of the game the score stood : Hawkins Zouave Club, twenty-one .nms ; Fifty-first New- York Club, ten runs. The greater -portion of the Ninth Army Corps had left Newports News, and Colonel Hawkins was in command of the post. On the 2d day of April h6 received orders from General Dix to proceed to Camp Hamilton and establish quarters there, which order was executed the following day. About one week after, the regiment was on the move for Sufi'olk. They went by boat to Portsmouth, where they landed at the Long Branch Dock early in tlie morning ; and after waiting until evening, they began their march to Sufi^olk. It was not a very pleasant afi'air, but they succeeded in getting through it, as they had with all the other marches, and ar- rived at the besieged place in the night, having ac- complished a distance of nearly thirty miles. THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 175 Part Fourteenth : ^Hagedi} — !|)b8equiea. IT was upon this fatal niglit that the unfortunate occurrence between Lieut.-Colonel Kimball and General Corcoran took place. We give Corcoran's letter, which he addressed to Colonel Hawkins in re- gard to the affair, as it contains a connected account of it, and is the substance of the evidence adduced before the court of inquiry. To Colonel Eush C. Hawkins, Commanding the Ninth New- YoKic Volunteers, Hawkins Zouates : Colonel : To prevent any misapprehensions, I send you a brief statement in relation to the sad affair of Sunday morning, which resulted, I regret to say, in the death of Lieut.-Colonel Edgar A. Kimball. At about a quarter before three o'clock a.m. I left my quar- ters, and proceeded along the main road toward the front lines, for the purpose of having the troops under arms at three o'clock, in obedience to an order from the Major-General commanding. When I arrived opposite the hospital of my brigade, an officer, whose rank I could not recognize, (the night being very dark,) and whom I judged to be such only from the fact of his having a sword, rushed out in front of me and ordered a halt. Halting, I asked if it was Dr. Heath, (one of the surgeons of the Irish Legion,) and was answered by another order to halt, with the additional remark, " It is none of your business. I want 176 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : the countersign." Perceiving it was not the Doctor, I requested to know the object of his halting me, and his name, rank, and other authority, but could not obtain any other reply than that it was none of my business. I repeated the questions several times and received similar answers, with the exception that the countersign was not demanded more than once ; and he said, "You can not pass here." I expostulated with him on such conduct, and told him to remember that he was not on duty, and had no right to be there and stop me from proceeding, and that he must let me pass. I asked him if he knew who he was talking to, and then gave him my name and rank, telling him also that I was going to the front under orders, and even my business there, but it was of no avail. He answered : " I do not care who you are.'' I again told him that I should pass, and warned him several times to get out of my way, and attempted to proceed. He thereupon put himself in a deter- mined attitude to prevent my progress, and brandishing his sword in one hand, and having his other on a pistol, as I then supposed, made a movement toward me with the evident design of using them, making an impolite statement that I should not pass. It was at this point that I used my weapon. It seemed that the more I endeavored to persuade, the more obstinate he became. Nothing but the consideration that my life was in danger, which I had every reason to fear, and the duty that was incumbent upon me at that particular time, when an attack upon our lines was apprehended, would have justified me in my own mind in taking the measure I then did. As a soldier of long service, I am convinced that you will recognize the necessity and lawfulness of the act, however much you may regret that it was caused by one of your own number, and no one does so more than myself. Although I had never before seen Lieut.- Colonel Kimball that I am aware of, I had learned to respect him for his gallantry in several engagements of the present war. It was not until after the occurrence that I learned who it was ; but had he been my best friend, I can not see how it would have resulted otherwise from the part he acted on the occasion. With no authority to demand the countersign, I would have THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 177 been derelict in my duty had I yielded to his demand. His re- fusal to give me his name, rank, or any information about him, or upon what authority, if any, he assumed to act, (the fact being, as you are well aware, that he had none,) especially as his request was couched in the terms I have stated, and the enemy immediately in our front, called upon me to act with more than ordinary precaution in revealing the countersign, and not unless to one entitled to it. But besides, the personal violence I had just cause to fear gave undoubted right to protect myself against it. I intended to have sent this statement before, but my duties for the past two days have prevented it, and I have now been obliged to make it hurriedly, hoping thereby to correct any erroneous impressions that may have been made, and to prevent them in future. I will only be too glad to have an official investigation of the matter at any time. I am, Colonel, your obedient servant, Michael Cokcoban, Brigadier-General. No doubt may have existed in military circles as to the legality of the act committed by General Cor- coran. He was set upon while in the performance of duty by some one to him unknown, the individual drawing a sword and threatening the life of a superior officer. In view of such fact alone there might be some justification in taking life. But Kimball was alone, while Corcoran was accom- panied by his stafi". The General stepped consider- ably below the dignity of his office in bickering with an unknown person, when it was in his power to have arrested him, which would have been quite as military as what he did. But there is a question of humanity in the affair. He took the life of an individual who, under the cir- cumstances, was without the power of doing harm. 178 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Surrounded as lie was by officers of excellent reput tion and high personal character, who, in the mo aggravating case, would have allowed the consider tion of the rights of man preference above all other he proved himself recreant to their influence, arj committed a deed that brought down upon him a most universal censure. If his presence at the froi was required in such haste, it was a portion of h duty to have immediately arrested the offender, (wliic he could easily have done,) that he might procec without delay to the execution of the orders give him, instead of wasting five or ten minutes by talkii] in the manner he says he did. But the justice he denied to a fellow-being overtoc him at last : he fell from his horse one night an broke his neck, and the cause of the event was r more flattering to him than the conduct he attribute to the deceased Lieut.-Colonel would have been 1 any officer or gentleman. Therefore, in the general working of Providence, may be presumed that the censure General Corcora everywhere met with was justly accorded. The body of Lieut.-Colonel E. A. Kimball was car fully embalmed and forwarded to New- York, undi a propel- escort detailed from the regiment. Havir arrived in the city, the remains were met at the fo' of Cortlandt street by a detachment of the Sevent first Regiment National Guard. The body wasne: taken to the City Hall, where it was laid out in stat Ten men of Companj"^ C of the Seventy-first acted i a guard of honor during the night, and were relieve by a detail from the Sixty-niuth. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 179 The wounded members of the " Ninth " (there being quite a number of them in the city at the time) held a meeting and passed resolutions of condolence at the death of their companion in arms. Before the remains left the Governor's room a lady entered, bringing in her arms a basket filled with flowers of the most delightful perfume, and strewed them upon the - coffin. The dog of the deceased sol- dier, which had followed its master through the war, was crouched beneath the coffin, desolate and in- consolable. On the afternoon in which the funeral took place a vast crowd had assembled around the City Hall, and the regiments that were to taka part in the proces- sion were drawn up in line opposite to it. The coffin, around which the American colors had been taste- fully wrapped, was brought out by six dark-skinned Zouaves and deposited in the hearse. The flags upon the public buildings and the ship- ping were at half-mast, and a remarkable degree of solemnity prevailed. The route of- the procession was taken up, and the remains were conveyed to Green- wood with considerable pomp, the funeral being a very imposing one. 180 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : Part Fifteenth : Suffolk to 'Kevo-l^oJib. 8H0ETLY after their arrival at Suffoll "Ninth" was sent to Fort Nansemond, \ was designated by General Keyes, then commai that department, as a post of honor. This " p( honor" had been so carefully constructed by stupid engineer as to be commanded by a hill i; immediate front. The rebel General Longstreel was besieging the place with an army of thirty sand troops, availed himself of the advantages oi by this elevation. Rifle-pits occupied every po ground suitable for the object of directing a fire the fort, some of them being only a few rods fro and the sharp-shooters who were in them used rifles so constantly that the Zouaves were oblig keep under cover all the while, excepting at times when the rebels were becoming too mis( ous, or were gaining too many advantages, when would spring up and open their artillery upoi rifle-pits, dropping the shell into them with efiect as to cause the enemy to spring nimbly ou scamper away, not, however, without great Ic their numbers ; some would be blown in piecet others picked off, while yet in their flight, by the THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES; 181 rifles of tlie Zoua^■cs. But they would return again ; and whenever the musketry from the fort failed to make an impression on them, the heavier guns were resorted to at once, invariably accomplishing the ob- ject of driving them back ; and this method met with such continual success as to convince the enemy that a respectful distance was more desirable, and they accordingly sighted their rifles for a more distant aim. But they were not, for all that, to ^remain unmolest- ed, frequent sortie-pai-ties being sent out to attack them. The siege was prosecuted vigorously on a scale of great magnitude, but the strategy of the enemy was everywhere successfully met by the vigilant defend- ers. The most active engagements between the two forces transpired near or in front of Fort Nansemond. Picket-firing was kept up by the rebels throughout the entire siege. Although mutual agreements " not to fire " were frequently entered into, yet the rebels continually dissolved them, the Texas and South- Carolina troops being the most vindictive, seeking every chance to fire upon the unsuspecting Union soldier. While in this fort the " ISTinth." had ample oppor- tunity of acquiring a knowledge of defensive warfare. It is true that they had been under the instruction of General Phelps at Newports News, who put them through interesting drills upon the fortifications of that place, in anticipation of an attack from General Magruder ; but nothing instructs so well as actual experience. Tliey now had the privilege of putting their practice to the test ; and could General Phelps 182 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: but have seen them, he -would have felt repaid for the trouble he had in teaching them. The Zouaves were constantly harassed day and night by the enemy, scarcely an hour passing with- out a portion of the regiment being engaged in some excitement. Although the numbers in killed and wounded were comparatively small, yet it is ques- tioned if to pass several weeks under incessant fire, worried by a thousand dreaded anticipations, was a better choice of warfare than a short and decisive conflict, where all is ended in a few hours. In all their previous engagements they had charged upon the enemy, and it is not strange that they should at this place have' experienced some pleasant satisfac- tion at being placed in a contest wliere the enemy was expected to charge upon them. Company K was for some time in charge of Fort Halleck, where they handled their guns often and well, doing great damage to the enemy. At one time the rebels tvere secretly erecting a battery up the Nansemond river, which was concealed by a small but thick wood. The movement was strongly sus- pected, and Company K went at once to the extreme left, and immediately began the construction of a bat- tery, with far greater secrecy, directly opposite. When the rebels had completed their work and were read}' to use it, they cnt away the woods and opened fire upon the Union lines. But the Zouaves had worked with spirit, and in the anticipation of defeat- ing the enemy's design, had constructed their work with haste, and were prepared for them. Clearing away the trees in front. Captain Morris gave his com- THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 183 pany the command to fire, and they at once opened upon the rebels with heavy shell. They were com- pletely astonished, and in a short time their battery was silenced. They plainly saw that the Zouaves were good at flank movements. To them every fiery cap seemed to send an ignited shell among them. But the term of service for which the regiment was sworn in was now about to expire ; and between the shot and shell of the enemy they entertained the hap- piest anticipations of once again enjoying peace at home, for the full realization of which they had fought" battles and won victories. While in the midst of this pleasant hope a communication was received from General Dix, requesting them to remain a few days after their term was served out. The address was read to the diff'erent companies separately, and a vote taken upon it. They unani- mously declined the honor of serving longer, and de- cided to go home. The officers of the regiment also took proper steps in the matter. Below are the resolutions adopted at a meeting held by them : At a meeting of the field and line officers of the Ninth New- York VoLUNTEEKS, held in camp at Suffolk, Va., April 30th, 1863, Colonel Rcsii C. Hawkins in the chair, The address of Major-General John A. Dix to the soldiers of the Ninth New^-York Volunteers, under date of the 28th instant, and the telegraphic dispatch from Major-General Dix, under date of tlie 30th instant, were read, and after due consideration it was unanimously Resolved, That, under the peculiar circumstances in which the regiment is at present situated, the request of Major-General 184 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : Dix to remain for a longer period than its term of service be re spectfuUy but firmly declined. Resolved, That a- copy of these resolutions be forwarded to Major-General John A. Dix. Rush C. Hawkihs, Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers, Chairman. 0. W. Paeisen, First Lieutenant Ninth New- York Volunteers, Secretary. The appeal and complimentary order of General .Dix: Headquarters, Departmest Virgikia, Seventh Armv Corps, Fort Monroe, Va., April 28, 1863. To THE Ninth Regiment New- York Volunteers : Soldiers : The term for which you were mustered into the United States service expires five days from to-day. You are entitled to transportation to New- York, where you will be mus- tered out. It will be furnished on the day you ask for it. But you ^re now holding a post of honor in the face of the enemy. Your experience and your gallantry upon numerous battle-fields, and your familiarity with the special service which has been as- signed to you, make it vitally important that you should remain a few days — long enough, at least, to supply your place by an- other regiment. I appeal to you, therefore, for the sake of the cause you are upholding, and by the honorable name you have won, to give a short time more to your country in this emergency. Nothing would so gratify the enemy whom you have so often encountered and put to rout as to see you laying down your arms, and leaving your comrades-in other regiments and corps to abide the issue of the assault he is meditating ; and let mc say, in all frankness, that nothing would be less grateful to the hosts of friends at home, who are waiting with gratulating hands and welcoming voices to greet your return, and to testify, by the re- ception they will give you, how much they owe you for uphold- ing, with courage and devotion unsurpassed, your country's THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 185 honor and your own. I would not ask you to remain a single day beyond the expiration of your term of service, if I did not feel, under the circumstances in which you are placed, that it was due to yourselves as well as to the cause. I do not ask you to decide now ; take time to consider what I propose to you, and advise me at an early day. I have some claim to your confi- dence. I was the first general officer who received you when you were organized. You went to the field under my orders. The chances of war have again placed you under my command, when your term of service is expiring. I feel, therefore, that I have more than an ordinary interest in your fortune and in the good name you have earned ; and you will believe me when I say that I could make no appeal to you, nor give you any coun- sel which I did not think due alike to your country and your- selT'es. JoHS A. Dix, Major-General. The appended reply from Colonel Hawkins to Ma- jor-General Dix fully satisfies us with the action taken by the regiment in regard to the touching ap- peal of their General : Headquabtebs, Fort Nansemond, Suffolk, Va., April 30, 1863. MA,rOR-GENERAL JoHN A. DiX, CoMMAKDINQ DEPARTMENT OF Virginia : General : Your address of the 28th instant to the regiment which I have the honor to command calls for a reply. As a regiment we feel that we have performed all our country has any right to expect or demand. Our contract has been ful- filled to the letter. From the first moment of our taking the field we have been in the face of the enemy, never having been in a fort, garrison, or camp of instruction, where we could have the opportunity of drilling. Our home has been in the field, where all the exposures and hardships incident to a soldier's life have been endiu-ed without a murmur. No matter how hard or difficult the service we have been called upon to perform, it has always been done cheerfully and with alacrity. 186 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: The most of my ofBcers and men have a home circle of anx- ious relatives who are expecting to see them return at the ear- liest moment after the term of their service expires. None of them have even thought we should be called upon to remain longer. Our situation has always been such that it would not have been consistent with the interests of the service to grant furloughs ; the consequence is, not five per cent of the enlisted men have been home since they entered the service. It is now quite natural that they should desire to return, i-ather than run the risk of being killed in another action after their time has ex- pired. I think you will admit that a regiment which has changed its camp twenty-nine times, spent five months on the sand-banks of Hatteras, and lost over four hundred men, killed and wounded, in two j'ears, deserves some little consideration from the Govern- ment, and the people who remain at home in easy chairs. When the first gun was fired at Sumter, we jumped to arms with all the eagerness and enthusiasm of youth. We asked no bounty. No hope of reward was held out to us. We felt that our country was in danger, and needed our support. We loved our country and its noble history then, and we love it now ; but we feel that others who have remained in the back-ground should step forward to the front and supply our place. The " post of honor" is not new to us. We have had it be- fore, and paid for it dearly with the lives of many of the noblest youths our country ever possessed. Individual courage and bravery have all gone for naught. The imbecility of many high commanding officers in the field has cast a damning blight and disgrace over the graves of our brave countrymen. Taking into consideration the fact that we have been here nearly three weeks, and that ample time has elapsed to have supplied our place, we do not think it incumbent upon us to remain longer than the third day of May, the day upon which our term of service ex- pires. I, therefore, on behalf of the regiment, call for trans- portation to be furnished to us at that' time. If on account of this refusal to comply with your request we go home in disgrace, and meet thorns where we had expected to find flowers, we must THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 187 bear up under it with the same courage which has characterized all our actions since we became defenders of our country's honor. I am, with the highest esteem and personal consideration, your most faithful servant, Rusn C. Hawkins, Colonel Ninth New-York Volunteers. The day succeeding that on which General Dix re- ceived the reply of Colonel Hawkins, the " Ninth " was relieved by the Sixth Massachusetts, and they now held themselves in readiness to depart for New- York, where they would be mustered out. It was at this time that General, Getty issued a farewell and complimentaiy address to the regiment. They had been under his watclifal eye for several months, and he had learned to value those superior soldierly qual- ities whicli they everywhere exhibited. Headquarters, Thibd Division Ninth Army Corps, Suffolk, Va., May 2, 1863. ( General Orders, ) } No. 27. i After two years of constant field service, the Ninth regiment New- York State Volunteers are now about to return home, their term of service having expired. Among the first to spring to arms at their country's call, they now return home after two years of faithful and gallant service, with the heartfelt satisfac- tion of having done their duty, with the praises of their friends, and the admiration of the enemy ; and with Hattekas, Roa- KOKE, Camden, South-Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksbuegh, and Suffolk inscribed on their banners. Fare you well ! brave and faithful comrades ! The best wish- es of those you leave follow you, and will unite with the cheers of the thousands who will greet your triumphant march through your native city, to do you the honor you have so richly eartied. By command of George W. Gettt, Brigadier-General. Captain Gardiner, Assistant Adjutant-General. 188 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: On the 3cl day of May the " Ninth " left Suffolk, and proceeded to Norfolk, thence to Fortress Monroe, where they received transportation to the place of their enlistment. The people of ISTew-York were notified of the expected arrival of the Zouaves by the following extract irom. a paper of May fifth : " The regiment will arrive in this city to-day. Extensive ar- rangements have been made in order to give the gallant corps an enthusiastic reception. Several fire companies, both of New- York and Brooklyn, have volunteered to turn out on the occa- sion. The Twelfth Regiment, National Guard, will also' parade in honor of the returning heroes. They come on the steamer Kennebec, and may be expected to land about nine o'clock a.m. A meeting of the wounded and friends of the regiment was held at 25 Carmine street yesterday afternoon, and arrangements were made for the ex-members, wounded, and friends, to turn out upon the occasion. The Zouaves will be commanded by Colonel Hawkins." The regiment when at Fortress Monroe received orders* from the "W ar Department to leave their arms and equipments at that place. The orders were coun- termanded, but not until it was too late, and the Zouaves were far out at sea. This was something they had not looked for. They had long enjoyed the expectation of returning home crowned with honors, to be proudly received in their native city. But they were now ashamed of this action of the Government, for which they had undergone so much hardship, and braved so many dangers, and they could scarcely be- * The order was so unfavorably received by both soldiers and citi- zens, that the War Department decided that in the future soldiers should retain their arms and equipments until mustered out. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 189 lieve it was so ungrateful as to place them in the at- titude of cowards before those from whom they ex- pected cheers of welcome. It was for the purpose of securing them the necessary arms and equipments that the wounded held the meeting alluded to. " Onr brave comrades shall not come home like uniformed convicts, as though they have been guilty of some crime against their country !" The muskets were procured and taken to the dock, where the Zouaves landed and gladly received them. 9* 190 THE HAWKINS zouaves; Part Sixteenth F tlieir reception it has been said : "After a severe and gallant campaign, i York Volunteers (more familiarly known as the H arrived in this city at an early hour yesterday were the recipients of a cordial and well-deserve( hands of the people, although the weather intei with the arrangements which had been made to | a large and imposing escort. They landed at thi was assembled a vast number of people, who c they came from the steamer. At this time the Tv National Guard, had reached the spot, accomj band; and the line of procession was immec through Broadway to Fourteenth street ; and al came down rather disagreeably, it did not deter from turning out in order to welcome the return soldiers looked exceedingly hearty after their an and bore the evident marks of well- disciplined ■ as men who were able and willing to do the bra necessary. Two bands of music accompanied and several private societies also took part in th regiment numbered about four hundred men, an ed by Colonel Hawkins, who was quite warml being recognized by the crowd." Volumes of eulogies were passed u jnent and freely Qirculated, They are a THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 191 in the fact that the Zouaves were the most soldierly hody of men returned from the war. Veterans usu- ally returned dirty ; but about the persons of the Zouaves there was observed a uniform cleanliness, and their clothing was neat, though considerably patched. The " ISTinth" had been in the city but a few days when Colonel Hawkins issued an order relative to the death of Colonel Benjamin Ringold, of the One Hundred and Third New- York Volunteers. This re- giment had long been in the same brigade with the Zouaves, and the many incidents of battles, skirmishes, and marches had aroused mutual friendship between the two regiments — one strictly American, and the other more decidedly German in composition and character. The death of the Colonel was deeply lamented by the soldiers and the circle of friends at home in which he had once moved. Headquarters Ninth New-York Volunteers, 48 Pine Street, New-York City, May 11, 1863. (Special Orders.) The regiment will assemble at the arsenal, corner Thirty-flfth street and Seventh avenue, at half-past nine o'clock a.m., on the 13th instant, for the purpose of attending the funeral of their late lamented companion in arms, Colonel Benjamin Ringold, of the One Hundred and Third New-York Volunteers. The drum- corps and fifers, without the drum-major, will assemble with the regiment. The field and staff will be mounted, and the officers and enlisted men will wear white gloves. By order Rusn 0. Hawkins, Colonel. Thomas L. Bartholomew, Adjutant. The regiment tm-ned out in full numbers, and niade 192 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : a very fine appearance. The remains of the deceased were escorted through the city with due solemnity, and deposited in their last resting-place. The " Ninth " was mustered out of service and paid off by company at the old arsenal in White street, in the latter part of May. About one hundred and fifty of the Zouaves imme- diately reenlisted, with Major Jardine at their head, the design being to organize a new regiment ; but the misfortune which their commander met with shortly afterward somewliat interfered with the cbutemplated object. At the July riots a battalion of the Zouaves, under command of Major Jardine, shouldered their muskets and turned out to assist in quelling the disturbance. They fired low and fast into the insane mob, doing admirable execution. Major Jardine was severely wounded, and afterward came near losing his life at the hands of the fiendish Irish. It is deeply re- gretted that an excellent soldier, who had passed safely through so many battles, should, after return- ing from the war, be maimed for life by those very men whose lives and homes he had fought to protect. He was no longer able to command the Zouaves who had reenlisted ; they consequently joined the Seventeenth New- York Volunteers, then in the army of General Sherman, and passed with it through the most memorable campaign of the world. Others afterward reenlisted in various regiments, and many were either killed or wounded. Detachments of the regiment have turned out upon a number of occasions since its return from the war, THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 193 and the interest manifested by the public in its early career was maintained" upon every occasion. TJie surviWng members formed themselves into an association known as the Hawkins Zouave Associa- tion. An extract from Article 1st of the By-Laws reads as follows : " Its object shall be to bring together, in civil relations, those who were joined in defense of their country under the banner of the Ninth New- York Volunteers, with the view of continuing the friendships there contracted and cemented by the vicissitudes of a soldier's life." In the summer of 1865 the few remaining members of the regiment began the organization of a Zouave militia regiment. None but veterans who had served in the late war were eligible to membership. The companies filled up with a quickness unprecedented in the formation of any militia regiment. They have received their charter, being denomin- ated the First Eegiment New- York State National Guard, attached to the Third Brigade, and are com- manded by Colonel Hawkins. Their first appearance in public will be hailed with acclamations, for with the commencement of their organization dates a new era in the history of the State militia. 194 ■ THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: jpART Seventeenth ; fompany !tf at l^lymoutb. THE company, imder command of Captain Ham- mill, was ordered on an expedition to Plymouth, ISTorth-Carolina, for which place they embarked from Roanoke Island on June 11th, 1862. They kept up a continual reconnoissance about the town until the 30th. of the month, when they rejoined the regiment. As soon, however, as they could be replenished with the necessities requisite for being on detached service, they again went to Plymouth and took up their quar- ters as garrison of the town. Captain Hammill learned that the enemy were en- deavoring to make themselves a secure position in the town of Hamilton, and in company with the com- mander of the fleet on the Poanoke river, he deter- mined to dislodge them. The company embarked on board the gunboats Commodore Perry, Ceres, and Shawsheen, and proceeded in the direction of the enemy without molestation, until they had reached Painbow Bluffs, just below the town. Here the reb- els opened a severe fire upon the boats passing below, wounding Lieutenant Green. But the fleet succeed- ed in reaching Hamilton, where the company landed, and in a bloodless skirmish drove the rebels from the THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 195 town far into the adjoining country. After making themselves masters of the place, they returned to Plymouth. One month later, Captain Hammill, with a detach- ment of his company, went on an expedition up the Chowan river. They took from the enemy a large quantity of cotton and bacon, without any loss to themselves, and returned to camp the following day. The greater portion of the inhabitants at Plymouth professed .to be loyal to the Government, and from among them Colonel Hawkins, with the assistance of Lieutenant Flusser of the navy, had succeeded in or- ganizing a battalion of several hundred men, to pro- tect the town from the contemplated attacks of the rebels. Much difSculty was met with in making ar- rangements to supply them with arms and munitions ; but after perseverance the obstacles were overcome, and several companies were formed and placed under the command of Captain Hammill. It was not known how soon the rebels, who were increasing in numbers in that part of the State, would venture to attack the town. An alarm spread through camp one night. The movements of the enemy were suspicioned. A loyal ^ native arrived at the post in haste, and communicated to Captain Hammill the alarming intelligence that the rebels, with a large force of cavalry and infantry, estimated at fourteen hundred serviceable men, had approached within three miles of the place and bivou- acked, intending at early dawn to surprise and burn the town. As soon as the news reached headquar- 196 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : ' ters all was bustle and activity, in making prepara- tion for a stubborn resistance. Unfortunately, Captain Hammill was too ill to take command of his company ; the First Lieutenant was also sick with the fever ; and the Second Lieuten- ant was not yet recovered from the wound received at Rainbow Bluffs ; consequently the whole command devolved upon First Sergeant Green. Several sailors from the navy volunteered their assistance in the ap- proaching fight. ISTo time was to be lost, and Sergeant GrecTi quick- ly resolved upon the course to be pursued. He as- sembled his little army and marched out to meet the' eneiTiy, proceeding to their bivouac in a manner suf- ficiently cautious to efiect a surprise. When they had arrived near enough, Sergeant Green gave the word of command, and the Zouaves, Carolinians, and sailors sprang upon them, at the same time pouring into the confused host a deadly volley of musketry; and so rapidly was the fire kept up, that the enismy could not recover from the surprise, and in a short time they turned and fled in the utmost confusion, leaving a great number of killed and wounded upon the spot. They were piirsued, many of them being cut down in their flight ; and to this day they will not acknowledge that they were defeated by so small a force. Thirty of the rebels were killed outright, and the usual proportion were wounded. The prisoners cap- tured were Colonel Garret, commanding the infantry, Lieutenant Fagan, commanding the cavalry, and forty enlisted naen, besides thirty of the horses belonging THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 197 to Fagan's mounted squad. The loss sustained by the force under Sergeant Green was three men killed — Sergeant Miner, of the Zouaves ; Charles Lewis, of the E'orth-Carolina militia ; and one of the sailors, name unknown. This was a bold stroke well executed, and of great service to the Union arms in that community. Short- ly afterward. Sergeant Green was deservedly pro- moted to a lieutenancy. In November Company F, under its Captain, em- barked on the gunboats Hunchback and Commodore Perry, and proceeded to Williamstonj where it united with the command of General Foster, which was already formed to attack the enemy. From this place they marched to Tarboro, and after accomplishing the object for which they set out, they returned to their boats and sailed for Plymouth. They occupied the town until the following Decem- ber, when they left it and joined the regiment at Fal- mouth, Virginia. 198 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES ; Part Eighteenth : List of Killed, Mounded, and U^eceased of the "Rinth 1?ew-¥o(ife. CoLONEi, KcsH C. Hawkins, wounded, left arm, Camden, April 10, 1862. Lieut. -Colonel E. A. Kimball, wounded at Antietam, killed at Suf- folk, April 12, 1803. Major E. Jardine, woimded, both legs, Camden, April 19, 1862. Adjutant Charles A. Gadsden, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. Captain A. S. Graham, Co. A, wounded, arm and leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. Captain William G. Barnett, Co. B, wounded, hand and thigh, Antie- tam, Sept. 11, 1862. Captain Otto W. Parisen, Co. C, wounded, knee, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Captain William H. Hammill, Co. F, wounded, left arm, Camden, April 19, 1862. Captain Charles Child, Co. G, wounded, foot, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Captain Lawrence Leahy, Co. I, wounded, shoulder, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. First Lieut. Victor Klingsoehr, Co. A, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. First Lieut. R. McKecknie, Co. H, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. First Lieut. William H. Ennis, Co. C, died on Potomac, August 10, 1862. Second Lieut. M. J. Graham, Co. A, right leg amputated, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 199 Second Lieut. Thomas L. Bartholomew, Co. B, wounded, head, Cam- den, April 19, 1862. Second Lieut. Frank Powell, wounded, breast, Camden, April 19, 1862. Second Lieut. A. P. Webster, wounded, arm, Roanoke, Feb. 8,- 1862. Second Lieut. G. W. Debevoice, Co. A, wounded, spine, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Second Lieut. Ed. Cooper, Co. C, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Second Lieut. R. A. Burdett, Co. G, wounded, heel, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Second Lieut. Green, Co. F, wounded, Plymouth, X. C. Second Lieut. George H. Herbert, Co. K, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt.-Major A. Dusenberry, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Color-Sergeant Sebastian Mj-era, wounded, Antietam, Sept, 17, 1862. Quartermaster Sergeant John B. Pannes, wounded, neck, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Hospital Steward Thomas B. Justice, died, Hatteras, Oct. 14, 1861. First Sergt. 0. B. Forbes, Co. A, wounded, thigh, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, lived in constant agony, and died eight months after. First Sergt. Edwin Dews, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. First Sergt. Geayer, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. Salisbury, Co. A, wounded, near heart, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. James A. Watson, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. John H. E. Whitney, Co. B, wounded, left ileum, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. Benjamin F. Stites, Co. C, wounded, foot, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. Peter Searing, Co. D, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. James Fitzgerald, Co. D, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 1 9, 1862. Sergt. Van Sych, Co. E, wounded, thigh, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Sergt. Louis Jacobson, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. James D. Keating, Co. E, " " Sergt. A. N. Smith, Co. E, Sergt. James Reisser, Co. E, " 200 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Sergt. James B. Denham, Co. F, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862 Died from Its effects in 1865. Sergt. George W. Wilcox, Co. F, dangerously, Camden, April 19, 1862. Sergt. Neal Cannon, Co. G, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. Sergt. Patrick Holland, Co. G, Itilled, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Sergt. Edward Riley, Co. G, wounded, " " Sergt. John H. Byrne, Co. H, " " Sergt. Thomas Hodges, Co. H, wounded, shoulder, Camden, April 19, 1862. Sergt. Charles E. Hill, Co. I, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. Sergt. John McGlinchy, Co. I, drowned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. Sergt. Miner, Co. F, killed, Plymouth, Sept. 2, 1862. Corp. Robert Cameron, Co. A, died of febris typhoides, Dec. 1, 1861. Corp. David Van Cott, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, (died.) Corp. Daniel T. Van Duzer, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17,1862. Corp. James 0. Freesman, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. Jeremiah Voorhees, Co. A, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 1862, (died.) Corp. Thomas Fisher, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. George W. Farrell, Co. B, wounded in arm, Antietam, Sept 17, 1862. Corp. Arthur Spooner, Co. B, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. Martin Myers, Co. C, wounded, shoulder, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. Joshua C. Fields, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. Thomas Livingston, Co. C, " " " Corp. Charles Carrie, Co. C, " " " Corp. Elsden B. Stephens, Co. 0, " " " Corp. Lucius Center, Co. C, died of typhoid fever, June 4, 1862. Corp. Theodore Hyde, Co. D, wounded, thigh, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. Frank Pureell, Co. D, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. Samuel P. Lawrence, Co. C, killed, " " Corp. James Judge, Co. E, " " " Corp. Owen A. Flood, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, (died.) THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 201 Corp. Richard Bloxhane, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862, (died.) Corp. Michael Griesman, Co. E, wounded, ankle, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, (died.) Corp. John N. Fink, Co. F, wounded, Camden, April 19, and Antie- tam, Sept. 11, 18C2. Corp. John L. Hughe3, Co. F, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. Otten Van Grieff, Co. F, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. Henry Newman, Co. H, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. John R. Leslie, Co. H, " " " Corp. William Matthews, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. McMahon, Co. H, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. William Patterson, Co. H, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Corp. John McKinley, Co. I, wounded, " " Corp. John 0. Adair, Co. I, killed, " " Corp. Valentine Tronapfel, Co. G, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. Knapp, Co. G, died of typhoid fever, Oct. 23, 1861. Corp. William Saward, Co. I, killed at Camden, April 19, 1862. Corp. William J. Rogers, Co. B, wounded, hand, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Private Marcus May, Co. A, wounded, hand, Roanoke, Camden, foot amputated at Antietam. Private G. H. Swaine, Co. A, wounded, elbow, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Private Jeremiah Donovan, Co. A, head, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Private Severin Kress, Co. A, wounded, side, Camden, April 19, 1862. Private Joseph Stage, Co. A, arm amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. Private Charles W. Waters, Co. A, body, Camden, April 19, 1862. John J. Stephens, Co. A, arm, " " EaverSj Co. A, died, perforation of intestines, Oct. 9, 1861. James Turner, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. P. Stephens, Co. A, P. Hildebrand, Co. A, " " William II. Banta, Co. A, " 202 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Private Charles Bennett, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. 11, 18G2. James McConnell, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Alexander Relyea, Co. A, " " " Jacob C. Brice, Co. A, " " " , Samuel J. Clark, Co. A, " " " William H. Drake, Co. A, " Andrew B. Dobbs, Co. A, " " " John Gillay, Co. A, " Severin Kress, Co. A, " " " J. Nyler, Co. A, " " " William Stinson, " Daniel Leach, Co. A, " " Charles W. Lyon, Co. A, James McManus, Co. A, " " " David L. Stage, Co. A, Frank Merganthiler, Co. A, " " " John Muskulus, Co. A, " " " Thomas Dickinson, Co. A, " " " Bugler Joseph Horn, Co. A, • " " " Private Jacob Ott, Co. A, died, typhoides, Hatteras, Nov. 12, 1861. Robert Topping, Co. A, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. Private William Gunther, Co. B, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. John A. Cortez, Co. B, " " John Shaffer, Co. B, " " " Mathias Lintner, Co. B, " " " Eugene Eassiga, Co. B, " " " William S. Moser, Co. B, " " " Napoleon B. Spicer, Co. B, " " " Thomas Atkinson, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Michael Good, Co. B, " . " " Richard Grant, Co. B, ' " " " Spencer L. Harris, Co. B, " " " James N. Hyatt, Co. B, " " " M. O'Connor, Co. B, William Pfaffle, Co. B, " Charles L. Roeder, Co. B, " " " Michael Stanton, Co. B, " " " Peter Wagner, Co. B, " " " James Low, Co. B, " " " THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 203 Private John H. Roberts, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862. r. Pfaffle, Co. B, Samuel Osborne, Co. B, " " John Smith, Co. B, " " William H. Bailey, Co. B, " " John B. Adair, Co. B, " " Silliman Hubbell, Co. B, " " Wm. v. H. Cortelyou, Co. B, leg amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. Eugene Rassiga, Co. B, wounded leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. Harold Hutchinson, Co.. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862, (died.) John Hampson, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. Andrew Schoonmaker, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1S62. Michael O'Conner, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. Charles Miller, " " " " David Barring, " " " " Byron G. Sill, Co. B, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. Thomas Palmer, Co. B, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Albert Thomas, Co. B, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Wm. Hines, Co. B, wounded, Newporta News, Aug., 1861. Thomas H. Roseberry, Co. B, died, intermittent fever, Dec. 15, 1862. Private Philip Wekaser, Co. C, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 1682. Joseph Beeker, Co. C, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. Paul Witz, Co. C, wounded, foot, Camden, April 19, 18G2. Wm. K. Watson, Co. C, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Frank Prosser, Co C, kHled, " " " Emil Beese, Co. C, wounded, " Wm. B. Aber, Co. C, wounded, " " John Brennan, Co. C, wounded, " " " Steplien P. Crawford, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, " " Paul J. Clerihew, Co. C, wounded, " " " Joseph Ilalliwell, Co. C, wounded, " " " John H. Mecabe, Co. C, wounded, " " " Alex. McNab, Co. C, wounded, " " " 204 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : Private Daniel O'Brien, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Zaclt Seegie, Co. G, wounded, " " " Wm. Togel, Co. C, wounded, " " " George Wilson, Co. C, wounded, " " " Alexander B. Cruden, Co. C, wounded," " " Jamea Gallaher, Co. C, died, febris remittens, Hatteras, Nov. 4, 1861. George Morsohauser, Co. C, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Private Henry Bessling, Co. D, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. William Kothers, Co. D, killed, " « " ' Charles Michaels, Co. D, killed, " " Otto Benthuyaen, Co. D, killed, " " James H. Brainard, Co. D, wounded," " riorenoe Crawley, Co. D, wounded, " " James Ewell, Co. D, wounded, " Mathias Govern, Co. D, wounded, " " John Lawrence, Co. D, wounded, " " Marcus McCoy, Co. D, wounded, " " Louis Merge, Co. D, wounded, " " Wm. H. Seai-les, Co. D, wounded, " " Joseph Matthews, Co. D, wounded, " Henry Westfall, Co. D, wounded, " " George Wiebert, Co. D, wounded, " " Peter Cavanah, Co. D, wounded, " " Samuel Roteh, Co. D, wounded, " " J. Frank Hughson, Co. D, wounded, " " John C. Cuitin, Co. D, wrist amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. John Roddy, Co. D, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. John A. Van Scoy, Co._ D, " " Louis Longman, Co. D, * " " " Chai'les Taylor, Co. D, died, typhoid pneumonia, Roanoke, May 15, 1862. Jacob Mentz, Co. D, wounded, mouth, SuflFolk, April, 1862. John McKusker, Co, D, killed, Fredericksburgh, Dec. 18, 1862. Musician John Winn, Co, D, died of typhoid fever, Jan. 10, 1863. Private James H. Skinner, Co. E, wounded, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. James Juage, Co. E, " " " THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 205 Private Wm. R. Van Sickle, Co. E, wounded, (died from effect of •wound,) Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Henry Millivette, Co. E, wounded, (died from effect of wound,) Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. John R. Autin, Co. E, droTv-ned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. Thomas M. Golding, Co. E, drowned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. John Dunn, Co. E, died, febria typhoides, Hatteras, Dec. 22, 1861. Hugh Byrne, Co. E, wounded, arm amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. Henry Sweetman, Co. E, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Crookstan, Co. E, Camden, April 19, 1862. Philip Blazer, Co. E, killed, Antietam, Sept. I'T, 1862. Robert P. Hassan, Co. E, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. Nicholas Jochun, Co. E, " " " " Augustus Leindhardt, Co. E, " " " Jabez C. F. Lockward, Co. E, " " " " Bernard McDermott, Co. B, " " " " James Mclntee, Co. E " " " " John A. Smith, Co E, " " " " John J. Bower, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, " " Benj. Campbell, Co. E, " " Patrick Coen, Co, E, John B. Gandolph, Co. E, " " " " John Hess, Co. E, " James Hyer, Co. E, " John KnubeU, Co. E, " " " " Paul McLaughlin, Co. E, " Charles Sawyer, Co. E, " Henry Sweetman, Co. E, " | " " " Andrew Volk, Co. E, " " " " Frank Hart, Co. E, James Withers, Co. E, " " " " Patrick Cannon, Co. B, " " " " Bugler John S. Lange, Co. E, " " Private Adam Dillman, Co. E, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. ThomasT. KeUy, Co.E, "' James Cloments, Co. E, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. Nicholas Farrell, Co. E, " 10 206 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Private Hermon Shepherd, Co. F, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. John Byrd, Co. F, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Louis Coalman, Co. F, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. George Cummings, Co. P, wounded, abdomen, Camden, April 19, 1862. Henry Hartenfals, Co. F, both thumbs amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. John J. Kelly, Co. F, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. Vallade, Co. F, wounded, leg and thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Henry Wise, Co. F, wounded, hand, Camden, April 19, 1862. Wm. Dickson, Co. F, died, typhoid fever, Hatteras, Jan. 3, 1862. Wm. H. Van Houten, Co. F, died, perforation intestine, Hat- teras, Jan. 3, 1862. Private Edward Drum, Co. G, both hands, Camden, April 19, 1802. Garrit Allison, Co. G, arm, " " " Hugh McEh-oy, Co. G, " " " Wm. Fields, Co. G, wounded, arm, " " " Wm. White, Co. G, " " " Campbell, Co. G, died, diphtheria, Oct. 16, 1861. Peter Fisher, Co. G, wounded, arm, Suffolk, April, 1863. James Conway, Co. G, killed, Antietam, Sept. 1'?, 1862. Allen W. Negus, Co. G, " " " " Jacob Hopper, Co. G, " " " " Brainard Hubbard, Co. G, " " " " George A. Delavegue, Co. G, " " " " John Devlin, Co. G, " " " " Charles Coulman, Co ip, wounded, Antietam, " " W. Williams, Co. 6, Charles O'Donnell, Co. G, " Thomas W. Connolly, Co. G, " Andrew Lehring, Co. G, Gilbert Berthoff, Co. G, Michael Brady, Co. G, " Philip Crock, Co. G, Aaron Van Namce, Co. (i, " Patrick Cotter, Co. (;, THEIK BATTLES AND MARCHES. 207 Private Herman Stewart, Co. G, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. James Orr, Co. G, Daniel Patrick, Co. G, John Kenedy, Co. G, Alfred Thompson, Co. G, David L. Thompson, Co. G, Michael HeartUng, Co. G, Henry MoQuade, Co. G, Emila J. Coleman, Co. G, James Early, Co. G, wounded, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Neal Cannon, Co. G, " " " Drummer Samuel J. Van Ness, Co. H, died, Newports News, Aug. 9, 1862. Private JohnN. Whalers, Co. H, died, Newports News, Aug. 12, 18G2. Solomon Rose, Co. H, " " " Aug. 3, " John O'Connell, Co. H, died; Maryland, Sept. 27, 1862. Thomas Burke, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. George B. Carter, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. Alex. Denny, Co. H, wounded, arm, Camden, April 19, 1862. John A. Eisley, Co. H, head and side, " " " Patrick Preston, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. William Bums, Co. H, right arm amputated, Camden, April 19, 1862. Patrick Nash, Co. H, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 1862. Henry J. Nolan, Co. H, wounded, face, Camden, April 19, 1862. 41 Williiim D. Cavanaugh, Co. H, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. George Mayne, Co. H, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. Patrick Daly, Co. H, " " " " Christian Busam, Co.' H, killed, Anti John Byrd, Co. H, " Frank Donahoe, Co. H, " David Fleming, Co. H, " David Johnson, Co. H, " etam, Sept. 17, 1862. 208 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: Private William H. Stevenson, killed, Antictam, Sept. 11, 1862. John Crossin, Co. H, wounded, " " " John Johnson, Co. H Isaac Kehn, Co. H, Francis Knaiith, Co. H, " " " " James McGinnes, Co. H, " Jbhn Owens, Co. H, John Cornell, Co. H, " " WUliam Reese, Co. H, " " " " John Wallace, Co. H, Thomas Pearson, Co. H, " " " " Samuel Snyder, Co. H, " " John Twaddle, Co. H, " " " Private James Warren, Co. I, drowned in Narrows, June B, 1861. John Bennett, Co. I, died from impacted faeces, perforation intestine, Newporta News, July 25, 1861. Charles W. Haltzman, Co. I, died of gunshot wound in head, August 3 1861. Hugh McCloaky, Co. I, wounded, head and right tibia, Suf- folk, April, 1863. William Cockefier, Co. I, wounded, shoulder, Camden, April 19, 1862. Charles E. Johnson, Co. I, wounded, wrist, Camden, April 19, 1862. John McKinley, Co. I, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. Frank Hyckler, Co. I, Camden, April 19, 1862. William Saward, Co. I, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. James Murphy, Co. I, killed, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. Levi ColUns, Co. I, t" " " " William Shaw, Co. I, " Edward Dennis, Co. I, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. John D. Bliss, Co. I, " Charles F. Johnson, Co. I, " Edward H. Kenan, Co. I, " James Shultz, Co. I, " Hamilton H. Thain, Co. I, " William Smith, Co. I, " Lewis A. Piatt, Co. I, " Patrick Feeley, Co. I, " THEIR BATTLKS AND MARCHES. 209 Private Richard Scanlon, Co. K, wounded, shoulder, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862, (died.) Glancy Wheeler, Co. K, wounded, leg, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. Howard Fleming, Co. K, wounded, Autietam, Sept ll, 1862. James Hogan, Co. K, wounded, Antietam, Sept. -17, 1862. • In addition to those above there are many names of wounded which, we regret to say, it is Impossible for us to record with this work. The whole list complete numbers over four hundred in the aggregate, many being wounded two or three times. List of Killed, Mounded, and ISeceased since the Swo ■Jfeatis' ^envice. Captain William G. Baenett, of Company B, again entered the ser- vice a short time after the regiment was mustered out. He was an ac- complished soldier and a thorough tactician. He held a command in the Seventeenth New-York Volunteers, which accompanied General Sherman in his grand march from Atlanta to the sea, and up to Wash- ington. The Captain met his death at.Averysboro, N. C, by receiving a ball in the head. He is among the few who have passed through the war and finally closed it with his life's blood. His body was subse- quently brought home, and interred with appropriate honors by the Hawkins Zouave Association. First Lieutenant Flemminc, of Company I, Ninth New-York Volun- teers, a First Lieutenant Sixteenth New-York Cavalry, was surprised and brutally murdered by guerrillas near Fairfax Court-House, Va. Edwakd K. Wightman, of Company B, Ninth New- York Volunteers, while serving out the balance of his term in the Third New-York Vol- unteer Infantry, was killed at the storming of Fort Fisher, in which action he bore so honorable a part that all who knew him speak proudly of him. lie was an excellent soldier and gentleman. James Owens, of Company E, Ninth New- York Volunteers, reenlisted, and was killed at the attack on Pctersburgh, under General Grant. Ho was a gallant and intrepid soldier, and was determined never to return home so long as a rebel flag floated over his country. • 210 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES. Frank KArra, of Company H, Ninth New-York Volunteers, died on the fifth of May, 1864. Jacob Windall, of Company K, Ninth New- York Volunteers, re- enlisted, and was captured by the enemy. He was confined for many months in AndersonTille, where, from want of food, exposure, and ill- treatment^e was reduced to a skeleton. Upon being exchanged he was conyeyed to his home ; but the most delicate nourishment and the kindest care of his relatives failed to restore him to his proper physical condition, which was forever impaired, and he died in few days. Sergeant James B. JJenham, who received a wound at the battle of Camden, N. C, died from its effects, after prolonged suffering, on Wed- nesday, October 18th, 1865. His funeral was attended by a large con- course of relatives and friends, and the members of the Hawkins Zouave Association, Hawkins Zouave Militia Regiment, Neptune En- gine Company No. 7, and the Brooklyn, E. D., Fire Department gen- erally. First Lieutenant Robert W. Armstrong, reenlisting, was commissioned as Lieutenant of a colored regiment, and killed at the explosion of the mine before Petersburgh. Anorew J. Wright, of Company K, reenlisted in the Fourth New- York Heavy Artillery, and was killed in the Shenandoah Valley. Those who reenlisted became so^scattered that it is impossible to pro- cure information of the probable dissister among them. APPEE"DIX NOTE A In the month of July, 1860, Messrs. Hawkins, Barnett, Pari- sen, Hammill, Graham, Childs, and others, first conceived the idea of organizing a company of Zouaves, which was to he the foundation of a future regiment, to he known as the New- York Zouaves. A number of preliminary meetings were held, and the scheme met with favor and was readily taken hold of. The Committee on Rooms reported in favor of engaging a drill-room at the Mercer House ; and on motion the report was accepted, and the room engaged. A Printing Committee, consisting of Messrs. Hammill, Barclay, and Clancy, was appointed. Messrs. Hawkins, Baldwin, and Cohen were chosen a standing Finance Committee. Messrs. Hawkins, Parisen, and Cohen were ap- pointed a Committee on Military Instruction and Lectures, with power to increase their number to seven. On-motion it was re- solved that the corps should meet at the Mercer House the next week for business and drill. They determined to proceed imme- diately to hard work, and to use every endeavor to rival in effect- iveness the celebrated French Zouaves. And certainly they de- serve much praise for imparting this resolute spirit to the mem- bers of the Hawkins Zouaves, who have more than fiilfilled its every letter. They subsequently removed their headquarters to the more convenient location comer of Thompson and Fourth streets, where the spacious Washington Parade-Ground was at their disposal, and at which place they were when the Hawkins Zouaves volunteered for two years. 212 APPENDIX. NOTE B. The esteem for the Colonel manifested by the men while in the service was not of a volatile character ; for, since being mustered out, transactions have passed between the two parties which have riveted them in mutual affection. No higher evidence of this can be necessary than the fact, that when the organization of the Zouave Militia Regiment first commenced, not a man would sign the roll unless it was a part of the compact that Col- onel Hawkins should command the regiment. And at a subse- quent period it was suspicioned by a number of the men that an illegitimate use of his name was made as an inducement to promote the scheme, and in consequence enlistments almost wholly ceased, until all heard the announcement from his own lips that the suspicion was unfounded, and that he was proud of the position to which they had a second time called him — for members of regiments usually get enough of their Colonel the first time. It must be understood that he was bound in destiny with them, and he would not leave the regiment, even if he was obliged to shoulder his musket and go in the rear rank. NOTE C. Sergeant-Major Peacock was undoubtedly one of the vilest of traitors. He enlisted from motives purely mercenary, and there was not a particle of patriotism in him. Upon one occasion he told us that he was fighting for the Federal Government simply because on our side he could get a few dollars per month more than the Confederates would give. His words (and they were all of the same kind) wore not fully explained until long after his capture by the rebels in the instance named. When Ser- geant-Major Dusenberry, who superseded him, was captured at Antietam, with others of the regiment, he was taken to Rich- mond, and confined in the Libby Prison, where he found the traitorous Peacock under rebel colors as officer of the guard, having been promoted to a captaincy for his zeal in their service. But he found it policy to treat the Zouaves with unusual kind- ness, and to some he even offered money for the purchase of APPENDIX. 213 necessaries. They were obliged to bear his insulting appearance, and wait until the change 6f events should bring punishment. He was afterward seen in New- York, where he came with a piti- ful story ; and he was advised to avoid the society of any of the Zouaves ; for should he chance to meet them, transactions would probably take place which might render him a subject for hospi- tal treatment. He took passage in the first steamer for Europe. NOTE p. When in conversation with Colonel Hawkins, General Phelps would speak of the Zouaves as a credit to any commander ; and almost always after praising them highly, he would conclude by saying : " Yes, yes, a very fine regiment, Colonel — a very fine regiment ; but they want considerable drilling and harnessing." The following is an extract of a letter from the General to Fran- cis A. Silva, at one time Captain of a company in the "Ninth'' : Brattleboro, Vermont, May 30, 1865. I am much obliged to you for sending mc an obituary notice of Cap- tain Barnett. It accords well with the character of the regiment to remember the services of its members as an honor to the sincerity of their patriotism ; for very few regiments were of a more decided, na- tional, and patriotic character. The boys were animated by a spirit as wide as the limits al the country, and as deep as its best interests. Their proclivities toward order, method, system, and regularity, did honor to their intelligence as well as to their patriotism. I remember them always with particular pleasure. Very respectfully yours, J. W. Phelps. This long-standing love of the General's is sufficient to dissi- pate any seeming singularity which may be attributed to him in regretting to part with these two companies as he did. 214 . APPENDIX. NOTE E. The consequence of drilling and working the regiment so hard was, that one half of them were soon on the sick-list. Assistant-Surgeon' White was in charge of the dispensary at Camp Winfleld, where the greater portion of the regiment was at that time, and the men always give him great praise for at- tending to his duties in such a prompt and gentleman-like man- ner. He always exhibited a kindliness seldom met with, more particularly when their bodily ailments called for his sympa- thies. NOTE P. If reports can at all be credited, it would appear that the pub- lic have been greatly deceived in regard to the first charge of the war at the battle of Roanoke, made by the Hawkins Zouaves. The Ninth New-Jersey say that there was not an enemy in the battery when the Zouaves made their appearance upon the bat- tle-field. This must be erroneous, for the Ninth New-Jersey were still discharging their muskets when the "Ninth" wont ahead of them and cbarged up the " causeway." We're thei/ firing at nothing ? The Fifty-first New- York claim the honor of capturing the bat- tery. The Zouaves were a little ahead in winning the glory, but have since been very backward in claiming it ' The true circum- stances are, that loth regiments made a charge, the Fifty-first upon the enemy's right, and the "Ninth " in the centre. The colors of the Zouaves were in the centre of the regiment when they charged by the flank, where they should be ; but the colors of the Fifty-first were at the head of their column, where they should not be ; and from the fact alone that their colors were in the battery jfrsf, they claim what justly belongs to the Zouaves ; for BEFORE THEIB FLAG HAD KEACHED THE ESTEMy's WORKS, AT LEAST TWO HUNDRED OF THE " NlNTH " HAD POURED IN THE BAT- TERY, AND DRIVEN THE REBELS FROM THEIR GUNS. Undoubtedly the Fifty-first had planted their fiag upon the parapet in advance of the colors of the Zouaves; but do flags take batteries or DO MEN ? APPENDIX. . 215 The " Ninth '' thinks there was glory, enough won on that occasion for all, and they wish for no share that legally belongs to others ; but the part the Fifty -first have taken since then to belittle the merits of the Zouaves, is widely disparaging to the noble career they have won. throughout the War. NOTE G. Surgeon Humphreys was one of the most valuable oflScers in the regiment, and upon all occasions during battle he attended to the woimded while it was going on, and in his anxiety to re- lieve others of suffering, seemed wholly unconscious of all dan- ger to himself. The regiment was proud of him, and boasted that he could do as much " work " (in the line of surgical opera- tions) in ten minutes as any other two could in twenty. He is spoken deservedly of in Lieut-Colonel Kimball's report of the battle : " Acting Brigade-Surgeon Humphreys, of this regiment, is entitled to great praise on this occasion, having been constant- ly in attendance upon the wounded, until after their arrival at Roanoke Island, and upward of twenty-eight hours without sleep." The wounded always considered themselves unfor- tunate when they chanced to be placed under the care of an- other. NOTE H. The following notice of the death of this gallant officer finds a response of deep sympathy in the heart of every man in the regiment. That he became so soon attached to them was partly because he was impartial to all, uniform in his gentlemanly con- duct, and possessed of a system of order. " Although the field was won, its price was dear to the regiment, and particularly so in the loss of its Adjutant, that accomplished soldier and gentle- man, Charles A. Gadsden. He was but lately appointed, and had been on duty with us only for the short space of five days ; yet in that time he had endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact. He died gallantly at the head of the regiment, and in the honorable performance of the duties of his profession. All regret his death, and will always kindly and proudly remem- ber his connection with us." His body was carefully embalmed 216 APPENDIX. and sent homo under a proper escort, and the funeral solemni- ties were observed in his native city, where his dearest relatives and friends could lay him down gently to his rest." NOTE I. " I can not close this report without bearing testimony to the good conduct, on the battle-field and in the hospital, of the Rev. T. W. Conway. He not only remained after the army had left, and aided the wounded in the hospital, and buried and per- formed the funeral service over all the dead in the different regi- ments; but he then collected, took command of, and brought safely into camp, with great risk to himself, detachments from the different regiments of above forty strong, who had fallen out by the roadside from exhaustion." — KinibalVa Report, Since then' Mr. Conway has passed through a checkered and eventful history in connection with his benevolent labors among the freedmen ; and we deeply regret that we have not space to give one or two interesting incidents of that history. NOTE K. May 30, 1862. — " This morning the side-wheel steamer Port Eoyal arrived here from Roanoke Island, via the Currituck and Dismal Swamp Canal. Colonel Hawkins and twenty of his gal- lant Zouaves are the first to open connection between Generals Wool and Burnside. By this movement we can dispense with all the seaward transportation, and forward supplies, etc., in a safe and rapid manner to our troops in that vicinity. I learn from the Zouaves that their passage was unobstructed ; but pre- vious to their starting they were some time removing obstacles which had been put down by the rebels some time since. They will return by the same route," etc. — Fortress Monroe Corre- spondence. NOTE L. Among the most conspicuous in liberal hospitality was the family of Nathaniel Haller, of East Patrick street. On behalf of many members of the regiment, who have been the subjects of their kindness, we make this thankful acknowledgment. The grand marshal of the parade in New York city, May 30, in honor of the dead of the Civil and Spanish- American Wars will be Col. S. H. Mildenberg, G.A.K., and his chief of staff will be Col. John W. England. Capt. Horace M. Graff, ex-9th N.Y., will be chief aid. The reviewing officer witt~ti'5~George McAneny, president of the Borough of Manhattan. The troops parading will be headed by companies of U.S. Coast Artillery from Fort Totten, N.Y., under command of Major Joseph Wheeler, jr. The bluejackets and marines of the Navy to participate will be detailed from the TJ.S.S. Florida and Michigan, and will be under command of Lieut. Comdr. Walter G. Roper, U.S.N. Following the Regular forces will come the National Guard and Naval Militia, the Grand Army and Spanish War Veterans, cadet or- ganizations, etc. The reviewing stand will be on River- side Drive, near Eighty-sixth street. The Veteran Corps of Artillery of New York will provide a guard of honor to reviewing officers at Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Eiversi'de Drive, q^^^^ i- V.c^w ^v^— -J^ "Vv-i*.. vi^^iv HILLS. "William G.,' 9th N. Y., St. Louis. Mo., recently; member of Ran- som Po.=;t//Afi;\,.f 7xU.iv,,? - •, - /a,.,, emv as to Ibo re:u p^jl.v. ™ptly dore, and Col. Bolton, 51s. i k., caotured sorr.e of the e'f H^' f - ~ ■ r\nA Col. iiiiy. Capt. George W. Homans: ^^i^^^l^^^^^^ ot the Old Guard of New York, and a Civil War vet- eran, died in New York city Aug. 22, 1915. Death was caused by dropsy of the heart. Captain Homatis was in command of a vessel in the China trade many years ago and later he had charge of a vessel which carried pas- ?D°?f'i^ .''etween Australia and San Francisco. In 18(0 he became manager of the tugs and barges of the '' J:>ne Railroad Company and afterward held a similar position in the employ of the Chesapeake and Ohio Radroad Company. Captain Romans was born in Marblehead. Mass., and was captain of Company H 9th ^ew York Volunteers. He was also a member of Chan- s^u^^eYtlils ^?^e^^YC^fS!Sa"- received a fifty-year service medal for fifty consecutive years in the National Guard. Sergeant Morris enlisted in the Civil War in 1861 at the age of thirteen and has served continu- ously ever since. He is "The Original Drummer Boy of the Rappahannock," having played that part with David Warfield in "The Grand Army Man." He is the first and only soldier to be signally honored in the regiment with a fifty-year medal. ^ Dua Major James Brojvn Horner. r J.WIR.S 1! I10KNf:K. James Brown Horner, for more than half a century a prominent figure in the drug and essential oil trade, died at his home in New York City on December 26. Major i lorner was born in Albany, N. Y., August 5. 1839, and at the time of his death was seventy-six years of age. His education was obtained in the schools of Albany. Enlisting as a private in the Ninth New York Volun- teers known as Hawkins' Zouaves at the outbreak of the Civil War, he rapidly rose in rank, being made major for gallant conduct in the battle of Averysbor- ough, N. C. In 1865 Major Horner succeeded to the drug and essential oil business of Joseph Oliver in New- York and two years later organized the firm of Payne Brothers & Horner, which later was changed to Payne, Horner & Mulford. In 1870 the style of the company was changed to Horner & Quetting. The present name of the house. James B. Horner, was assumed in 1878. Major Horner's military career was a brilliant one, and he participated actively in many battles. He was the first president of the Hawkins' Zouave Association, grand mar- shal of the G. A. R., commanded the parades on Memorial Day in 1884 at the celebration of Evacuation Day, and at General Grant's funeral. He was also a member of the Elks, the Loyal Legion, the New York Drug and Chemical Club and the National Wh|)lesale Druggists' Association. Major Horner was a widower and is survived by two children, including Marshal f. Horner, two brothers and a sister. e interment occurred in West Brighton Staten Island, 01 ecember 30. '^<^^'4yy: