August 10th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, GA

August 10th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, GA

Ever Dear Parents,

We were gladdened last night by the arrival of your letter of the 31st
July, it having been but nine days on the way - pretty quick time.
Well, I am thankful I have no bad news for you. We are both safe and able
to do our regular duty. If you have received our letters you know all about those
battles. Yes, we have certainly seen the “elephant.” We see more or less of him
daily.
You say you heard the 12th was on the extreme right. Not so. Our Div. was
on the right of the banks and our Brig. the centre Brig and the 12th on the right of
it. Only the left wing companies were much refused and they had a hand in repelling
the charge of the enemy. Co. B. lost heavily. The charge we made the day before
was the most severe on us. If you have seen the Wis. State Journal you have read a
full account of those battles. Our Chaplain Walker of our Co. is correspondent.
We are shortening our lines as rapidly as possible, closing up on them.
Yesterday I was on the skirmish line again and the line advanced about 70 rods. The
rebels fell back, but before night we received their leaden compliments and returned
them. We were in a rather uncomfortable position for we could hear the rebels
erecting a batteries to shell us out. This morning they have opened from them on
our advanced and third line of works which are in an open field exposed to an
enfilading fire, but I tell you the spade is being used here. We frequently work
all night with the ax, pick and spade and are able to protect ourselves, close to
one of our batteries of 8 guns. Yesterday, all day long, our batteries, from our
position around to the extreme left were shelling the city. We can not see or hear
but we are only 2 miles from it. By climbing trees we can see it. We are sanguine
of taking Atlanta, but not for some time yet. The rebels are defending their city
bravely, and we may not be able to take it for weeks yet. We have built 8 strong
lines here. The 12th and 31st Ills. have been in front for some time, but they are
now in the 2nd line, and the other 2 Regiments of the Brig, Ill-Wis. and 30 Ills.
are out in the front line. The rebels are now shelling us lively. I have quit
writing several times and I don’t know but I shall have to quit altogether. I guess
I’ll stop a while - till they cease firing, any way. Homer is cooking beans, or was
- says they are under fire now and they may cook without watching for a while. They
won’t stop firing and I’ll commence writing again.
Dale arrived this morning looking and feeling first rate. He had a good
chance to serve out the remainder of his time in Louisville in the Provost
Marshall’s office as clerk but would not accept it for he wanted, he said, to see
the front and participate in the struggle for Atlanta. A noble spirit that. Not
like many men we have who are too anxious to get to the rear and if sick and once
there manage to figure for a safe position as clerks or something else, thus
cheating the country out of active service. I despise such men. I can not help it.
Our Co. has men of that strain back at Nashville, Chattanooga, and other places.
Who should be here; and I’ll venture there are thousands of men well and able doing
some unimportant duty - in the rear. I hope no more 1 years mean will be accepted.
They are too anxious to have their time out and are not good for much.
The story Balcomb tells about the battle is a downright lie. The Capt. has
his faults but I can exonerate him from that charge. He led the men, loped right
off like a man and did his duty. It was not a charge however as you supposed. We
ran across the open field to the woods then crept up on the flank of the rebel
skirmishers, I want you should understand that Balcomb is a grumbler, a fault-
finder. He is a Fremont man. You would say a Copperhead, and I will say talks like
one, if not in fact one. I have heard him say that after he gets out of service he
would not turn his finger over to save the country. He is one of those
discontented, fault-finding, grumbling characters and when you see him you may know
he can tell yarns.
I hope you will not try to do too much on that bottom land. You can easily
overdo, and you must not do it. We wish we could help you and hope we may yet be
able. Get those 50,000 men come down here and you will have the pleasure of seeing
this trouble ended in a short time. Not before they come, I fear and am sure Had
we 50,000 men reinforcements we could drive or annihilate this rebel army in our
front. Atlanta is hard to capture, but it is not Atlanta we want altogether, we
must destroy the rebel army. Give us the en and it shall be done. I have been
dodging shell for some time and my letter looks rather hard, but you must pardon
that. Only some horses were hit. Just back of us. The rebels have got some big
guns. The parts and the pieces make a noise like ducks when flying.
The weather for a few days has been very rainy - quite unpleasant - not so
warm here as with you. I have drawn a new suit of clothes and don’t look quite so
hard as I did. Write as usual and believe me your loving boy.

Edwin.
P.S. - Thomson and David McCleary are in the Alton prison for smuggling in Memphis
for the rebels. “The way, of transgressors is hard.” Send some Tribunes or
Sentinels.

Edwin

August 5th, 1864 - Near Atlanta Ga

August 5th, 1864 - Near Atlanta Ga

Dear Cousin Sattie:
I received your very kind letter day before yesterday: also a brief not
from Hattie. As she promised to write soon. I guess I will write to you today. You
can not guess, can not imagine now glad I was to get your letter, nor have I words
myself to tell you. I had been thinking of you both eagerly, watching the mail for
letters from you, but instead there came only disappointment. I did not charge you
with neglect as you had feared, but thought that perhaps your time was too fully
occupied to write or that because our folks write us so regularly. You thought your
letters would possess no interest to us, Now if the letter is correct, I mean, if
possible, to dislodge you of that notion for we feel we can not afford to have so
long an interval in your correspondence. I expect I am rather selfish in writing
letters, that I write principally, to obtain answers, but I do love to receive
letters from friends, and I hope you will write often, I will make a parenthesis
hare for Hattie. - Cousin Hattie. Your little note has by thanks. To be sure, it was
but a morsel, but none the less welcome, none the less relished. Had I known about
the letter, I presume my feelings would have been like those of the little boy who
saw and wanted the pie on his mothers buttery shelf, and she said -"by and by,
Sonney", but I will not scold you more. I expect a bigger bite next time and I know
I shall be ready.
Dear Cousin, of what shall I write? Not much about the war, for you must
hear and read enough about that, I guess.
I am glad to know you are succeeding so well with your school. I would
really like to visit it one of these fine afternoons, for I believe yours is a model
school. But your term is nearly closed, is it now? Do you board at Mr. Cales? Do you
have your patience tried any, and feel what your labors are improperly appreciated.
I hope there is no cause for such in your (? Relow) district, for to be thus
embarrassed is quite unpleasant.
You have spoken of your prayer meetings and I assure you it affords me much
pleasure to know they are still continued and that your interest in the soldier's
welfare is undiminished. I knew you would not forget them in your supplications as
the throne of Grace, and many a time have I though of the prayer circle, wishing I
were there. Duty now requires me on the bloody fields of strife, but, oh, how sweet
the though that, though wide the separation, we can yet approach that same dear
Fried who cares for us all; that we have a common tie finds us in His love. But Dear
Cousin, in you little prayer meeting pray not for the soldier's bodily comfort and
safety alone. Pray for the undying soul, rather. Oh, did you ever think how many of
our Country's brave defenders are laboring under the fatal delusion that patriotism
as religion, that to serve ones country is to secure salvation in Heaven. Such is a
fact. You can see that delusive idea prevailing in the papers and in political
speeches, and men believe it. How then does it become us to watch and pray and labor
that others may be led into the truth as it is in Jesus!
Yesterday was the day of National Prayer and fasting appointed by the
President. Our army was busy with the enemy, and I believe more than one soldier's
heart responded with the praying ones at home for success to our armies. Our picket
lines ever advanced in our front, and we stood in line all the afternoon ready to
make or repulse attacks as required. The rebels tried, tried, but in vain, to drive
back the picket line. Our Corps is now about in the center of the army on the west
side of Atlanta strongly entrenched. The right wing of the army is operating to get
possession of the R. R. leading to Montgomery and Macon. The road branches to shore
places 7 miles south of the city. It is reported that a position of Gen. Stoneman's
Cavalry have met with serious disaster - about 4000. They had captured an immense
wagon train from the enemy loaded with supplies also several hundred prisoners, and
were waiting the arrival of the main force of Stoneman - 16000 - but is not
appearing he concluded to return; but soon found a large force of rebel infantry
confronting him and was compelled to cut his way to after having destroyed the
wagons and disabled the mules and horses. With our present forces I do not believe
we can invest the place without so weakening, the lines that the enemy can sneak
through.
You speak of fruit down here. There are plenty of apples and black berries
down here. You can form some idea of the abundance of berries in Ga. When I tell you
the ladies of Atlanta have advertised for 1200 bushels for the army Medical Dept.
paying $10.00 per bushel. We got a plenty marching from the Chattahoochee River, but
we have no such chances now. There may be some "dried fruit" somewhere down here -
in Atlanta possibly - I don't get any of it. Mother is now our chief Sanitary
Commissioner. We get along finely this campaign. Our health is excellent and our
hope buoyant.
Emma has sent us her "photo". She looks just as she did when I last saw
her. I have heard people tell about the changes in human nature but I don't believe
a word of it now.
Now Cousin Sattie, I have written you a lengthy letter. You will write
soon, won't you? Direct Co. A., 12th Wis. Vol. 1st Brig. 3rd Div. 17th A. Corps, via
Chattanooga. My respect to inquiring friend, and accept this firm.
Your affectionate Cousin,

Edwin

December 18th, 1864 - Before Savannah, GA

December 18th, 1864 - Before Savannah, GA

Ever Dear Parents:

At last I can write to you, and as usual, of our continued welfare; and
this is the best news I have for you. Thanks to the kind Providence that has
guarded our steps. Now my snow-white sheet, companion in my toils for many a weary
mile, be the bearer of glad tidings to far-off friends, and may your journey be as
prosperous, and your welcome as merry, as fortune and friendship can make them.
Yes! to tell you of our health and safety is a pleasure, for your anxiety
to hear from us must be great, and your pleasure will be enhanced when I come to
relate where we have been and what we have seen and done.
But before proceeding to my narration I will acknowledge the receipt by
yesterday’s mail - the first since our arrival hear - of 4 letters from you
postmarked respectively Nov. 1, 7, 11, 21st and I need not tell you we were most
happy to peruse them.
As you are aware, we have made something of a march, - 300 miles - and made
a big hole in the confederacy. Will not the North rejoice when it realizes the
effect of this great movement? It can not do it now, for no more terrible blow has
been dealt the South than that that has just been given it in Ga.
I have not time to make any thing but a simple statement or outline of the
trip, but will ere long give you a minute sketch of what I saw, and of what was
done. Now get a good war map if you can and follow me - We left the Gale City in
flames on the 15 ult and arrived before Savannah on the 10th all right. The army -
4 corps, 15th, 15th, 17th and 20th - marched in two columns. The 17th struck the
R.R. at Gordon, between Macon and Milledgevilles and 170 miles from Savannah. The
towns we passed through after leaving Atlanta are McDonough, Jackson, Monticello,
Willsboro, Gordon, McIntyre, Toomsboro, Oconee, Tenille, Burton, Werndon, in fact
nearly all the Stations on the R.R. between Gordon and Savannah. The 17th Corp had
the R.R. all the way and did most of the work of destruction on it. We burned
nearly all the stations and tore up and burned the track all the way to Savannah.
The road can never be rebuilt during the war. The destruction was immense. I have
said nothing of what the other Corps did. The 15th on our right made a feint on
Macon. The 14th and 20th went to Milledgeville, Kilpatrick and Biscan made a feint
movement on Augusta whipping old Wheeler handsomely. We did not have even a
skirmish. We lived off the country almost entirely. We had only 12 days rations
hardtack issued to us while on the way and full rations. We took everything we
could lay our hands upon and I will say never since I have been a soldier did we
fare better, lived like princes in the eating line, flour, meal, rice, fresh pork,
chickens, geese, turkeys, honey, fresh beef, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, turnips,
sugar and molasses being plenty. But we took all and there is not enough left along
the line of our march to save the people from starvation. They must go elsewhere or
suffer with hunger. We crossed the Ocmulgee River on pontoons, the Oconee River 6
miles below the R.R. bridge and the Oguchee River at Burton. Marched from 5 to 20
miles a day - lay over one day. The country all fine though of poor soil, is one of
the most fertile in the South and many a wealthy were paid off at Atlanta and have
got 3 Cs to send you which we will do as soon as an [?compus] office is opening.

December 19th, 1864 - Before Savannah, Ga

December 19th, 1864 - Before Savannah, Ga

Diary of the March to Savannah

The 12th day of Nov. was a day that the soldiers of Sherman will never
forget. To the spectator, the scenes of that day will in after years, have lost
none of their vividness and interest, and in the rush of events - will be singled
out as the commencement of one of the greatest movements of “this cruel war.” A
grand breaking up - like that of the ice in early spring - pointing to the approach
of an event. The magnitude and importance of which can not be fully realized till
it is come upon us. What is going to be done? Everything has an unsettled look -
there is a hurrying to and fro, but no sign of anxiety - is apparent. Surely, no
evil is brooding. Everybody wears a look of satisfaction - the paymaster have
liberally distributed their “green backs” and there’s plenty to live upon for some
time - It is 12 o’clock a.m. There is a buzzing noise in camp - orders have come to
fall in. What now? Well, no matter, “fall in,” is the order. Then there is a
rattle of cups, plates, spoons and c - some burn their mouths in their haste to
drink their coffee - rations half cooked are hurriedly devoured or thrown away.
Ejaculations of all sorts, curses intermingled, fill the air. Who wouldn’t be a
soldier? Some laugh, some are cross, some sing. All in line, we are soon marching
up the R.R. to Marietta to begin the work of destroying the track and depot
buildings. The regiments strung along at equal distances begin the work, and soon
the rails are loosened. The ties and fencing pulled up, and the rails placed across
them. Fires are made, the rails heat and bend, or are bent and broken around a post
or tree and then we sit down to cook our suppers. It was a grand sight to see those
thousand fires along the track. The military academy which Sherman used to attend
in flames, and the depot buildings and public houses meeting the same fate.
Simultaneously the destruction wen ton from Kingston to Atlanta. Then we began to
consider the boldness of the act. We were severing our communications - cutting
loose from our base to find another hundred of miles away. Could we do it. Yes! No
backward steps with Sherman’s army.
The morning of the 13th long before light, the 17th Corps was marching to
Atlanta. We crossed the Chattahoochee 1 1/2 miles below the R.R. bridge and arrived
at the city after dark and camped. The following day was spent in completing the
preparations for the campaign. I improved the time in washing, sewing and C.
Rations (3 days to last 5) were issued at night, also some whiskey.
The morning of the 15th the march had fairly begun our course being S. W.
A good many were set up with whiskey and toddled along much to the amusement of the sober, but it was their last spree, and they would have their fun. The road was
good most of the way, but the county all ready overrun by our foragers afforded but
little subsistence. After marching 12 miles, we camped. I managed to get a
yearling heifer so that we had plenty of meat. The 15th Corps was another road to
our right and the 14th and 20th were on our left, and in this way we marched through
to S. The trains and batteries kept the road and the infantry marched outside
through the woods and fields. There was considerable cannonading to our right, but
no real fighting. A permanent detail had been made to forage provisions for the
troops and thus we were well supplied with flour, molasses, meat, pork, potatoes,
and c while on the march. Thus the march went on. The country becoming more level
and richer and the roads better till we arrived a the Ocmulgee Mills on the 3rd and
4th day out. We crossed the river of this name on pontoons. Rainy weather set in
and for the next 3 days the roads were awful. Once or twice we did not get into
camp till after midnight. On the 22nd we struck the R.R. junction at Gordon between
Milledgeville and Macon. I was on picket. The weather was very cold - ice formed
1/2 inch in thickness.
Next day was not relieved till after the troops had all left and thinking
the opportunity a good one, we stole away and took the R.R. track for 7 or 8 miles,
when learning that the troops had halted 1 mile north the R.R. on account of bad
roads we turned off. We were fortunate enough to get some cooking utensils,
molasses, flour, meat, potatoes, meat and c, yes! and some nice butter and biscuits.
What do you think of that, eh? As night we had to destroy R.R. The day following
we wee detailed for rear guard, and had charge of a lot of mules and horses that
were to be brought along and turned over at night at Brig. Hd. Qur. Homer had one.
So did I, and old slab sided fellow, thought to be the slowest, but emphatically one
of the best - he had the regular “get up” to him, and out distanced the rest by a
long ways. We took the R.R. track came to a long trestle work spanning about 300
yds of mud and water not less than 3 feet deep. Now here was a difficulty. So we
go, one after another and all are dismounted save one, before half way across. My
steed stuck parts, lay down, blankets and bundles were swimming about and I got
exceedingly wet. I lifted my load to those crossing the bridge and after much
urging piloted him out to terra firma. One fellow was under his mules and it was
with great struggling that he got out. It was a funny time. Two days more marching
and we were at the Oconee River 6 miles below the R.R. bridge. The next day we
crossed on pontoons and camped 3 miles beyond. While foraging that afternoon on his
own account Homer discovered hid in a gulley 3 trunks filled with valuables. We
brought away a revolver worth $15, rings worth $5, tobacco and other things worth in
all some $35. The march was easy for us, as we did not march more than 12 or 15
miles per day except once or twice when we made 20 miles. We destroyed R.R. almost
daily. 5 or 10 miles in a place. The R.R. was very fine, the track being laid on
stringers. This we would destroy in this manner. We would pry it up with rails.
then pile it up and but it. We arrived at Willow Junction Dec. 2nd. From here we
marched along the R.R. destroying every station we came to. The work of destruction
was most complete. Foraging was most thorough and we were abundantly supplied with
everything eatable the country afforded. From the Ogeechee the country is very
swampy - all fine country. I would not live in it for all it contains. We burned a
great many houses, taking for our own use everything we needed. This movement is a
most terrible blow to Rebels. The R.R. system of Georgia is used up. I want now to
see S.C. literally torn in pieces and if this army ever enters that state it will be
and then, if by that time the rebellion does not cave, I mistake 6 months more will
tell.
Wish I had leisure to write a better account but you will get a pretty
correct idea, I think, from this epistle.
Yours as ever,

E. D. Levings

December 25th, 1861 - Camp Randall

December 25th, 1861 - Camp Randall

Dear Parents:

It is Christmas and I will write you a Christmas letter. I wish you a happy
Christmas, indeed, if it is not to late. I lay thinking of your some time this
morning, and wondering what sort of a Christmas today would be to you. Not a lonely
one I hope. I have no bad news to tell you and we all have reason to be grateful to
that Providence that has watched over us thus far, giving to us health, comfort and
every needed blessing and assuring us that if we follow Him all will be well. His
ways though often dark and mysterious, we are informed, are ways of Wisdom and of
Goodness. A better day will come by - and - by, light will break through the clouds
and I hope our family will be reunited. The Capt. and boys naturally greeted each
other with a happy Christmas at roll-call this morning, the Capt. expressing the hop
that ere long the flog of our Union would float over Sumter and that we all might
spend the next Christmas in the homes we have left.
We received the other day your letter of Dec 14th and yesterday the Rural.
I am glad you have sold the shade place for so good a price.
The measles are at work in the Camp, requiring additional accommodations
for the sick. Two buildings are used as Hospitals, to one of which an addition has
recently been made. I was at work some yesterday putting up a large Hospital tent.
Have you received our pictures, and the box of clothing directed to the
care of J. W. Pratt?
We have at last got our guns and if they are as good as their appearance
indicates they will do good execution. They are the Belgian Rifle. We are to receive
yet our canteens and pay. The boys are impatient for the latter, as they have but
little money, not a cent. We happen to be exceptions, having enough for our wants.
Dec 26th Unfortunately, I was unable to finish this yesterday, having guard
duty to perform. It is the practice here to give the guard at 12 o’clock at night a
luncheon at the guard house. Last night I had coffee, hot, cold meat and a pond of
bread. That will do, won’t it? What, did you eat it all? Not quite. I served some of
it such as Lute Taylor did the doughnuts. I did not wrestle it down, though,
Those sick with the measles are said to be dong well. Many of our company
are sick with cold, settled on the lunge, sore-throats, headaches, ear-aches, &c.
Per cent of sickness today in our company is not less than 20 percent. A man of
Company D. died this morning of inflammation of the lungs. I could have had a
position in the Hospital as nurse, had I wanted. I would rather to be with Homer,
besides I do not care about giving Allopathic prescriptions to any body, unless it
be to the doctors themselves. We are the only ones in our tent of 19 who have not
been barking away with colds. I am content with - Noemaophatly to cure human
ailments.
My gun weights 11 lbs. Received a letter form grandmother this morning,
when and I will send along. I have considerable leisure time and wish to improve it.
Will you ask Mr. Wilcox to let me have his Zumpter Latin Dictionary and he use mine
and I will be much obliged. Sent it right away, the postage will be about 20cts,
which I will return to you.
Dale has a Virgil. Don’t know when or where we shall go. Think we shall go
last, next week. Remember us to Mr. Shepherd’s folks and all inquiring. Write soon.
Send letters to. Ill send tomorrow with pictures.
Yours most affectionately.

Edwin.

December 29th, 1861 - Camp Randall

December 29th, 1861 - Camp Randall

My Dear Parents:

I write you often as you see, and I hope you receive all my letters. The
memory and the love of you is ear to me and I shall ever hold the “pen of a ready
writer”. I can always find enough to write about. We average per week three letters
and they cost us 5 cnts each and maintaining for a year the practice would cost us
the snug some of $7.50. But writing is always a paying investment.
I attended church this forenoon at the Congregational House. Soldiers are
received into the churches with as much respect as at the churches at home. And if
is a great relief as well as pleasure to me to be thus privileged. This may be the
last time I shall have to enter the House of God. My thoughts have frequently run
back to you during the day, have follow you to the Sanctuary, home again and about
the house. Shall we ever meet again in our dear home? O if we never do, may we meet
in Heaven about never to part again, where there is no sorrow and where there is no
war with its wide desolations. I come and all its associates and the parting scene
are stereotyped upon my soul. You are lonely indeed. Mother do not let those chamber
rooms get lonesome - visit them often and give them a cheerful appearance. Do not
think I wish I had not volunteered. No I do not regret the step in the least. It
will worthy to be taken by any one. It would be a hard heart that did not cling to
home and dear friends. Yes, I believe, that where the grace of God does not abound,
frequent thoughts of home and hose we love, restrain often times form way of Sin.
Blessed I that soldier who has the love, the sympathies, the influence, the prayers
of friends, following him and cheering him as he goes forth to meet the foe, and if
he be armed with the spiritual armor, Satan can not injure him morally. Wicked men
may destroy his body, but they can not destroy his soul.

December 31st.

Received this morning your letter in which your mentioning the receipt of
our daguerreotypes and clothes. Your speak of healthfulness of Kansas and of Mothers
willingness to go there after the termination of the war if we would prefer
remaining there. I think I have seen no beauty in the State better or more beautiful
than Pierce Co. I do not think if your duty to go to Ware if England should attack
us. Two sons are enough. We have purchased us each a pair of new kip boots for
muddy, stormy weather. They are tip-top, costing $4.00 a pair. The pay comes out of
our U. S. pay. Upwards of 40 others have done the same.
Had a grand review yesterday afternoon. Gen’l Stevens and Staff attended by
the Governor, reviewed the Regt. which had on knapsacks h, haversacks and was armed
with guns and accoutrements. Company A, which your must know has the position of
honor, received, for the first time, the Colors at the Col,s Office and escorted
them to the center company, C., the Band in from playing. The Regt. was them drawn
up in a hollow square, when the Gov.

[The rest of the letter is missing.]

January 15th, 1864 - Natchez Miss

January 15th, 1864 - Natchez Miss

Ever Dear Parents,

Since the receipt and answer of your last letter, Dec. 21st, two more, of
earlier dates, have come to hand, which had been delayed somewhere. They are those
of Nov. 16th and Dec. 13th, respectively, in which you speak of your purchase of a
sewing machine and the satisfaction it gives you. We were glad to get them; and
having nothing to do but read and write, I will do the latter. You ask if we write
you every week. We do, unless circumstances prevent. Sometimes, when your letters
come slowly, we extend the period of writing a few days to hear from you. Knowing
your uneasiness, however, if at the regular time no letter comes, it is our
practice, generally to write you every week. We hope to hear from you by next mail.
We are looking for Hattie’s letter, too, with much interest. I presume that before
this reaches you will have received our last letter. I think it likely, Mother, you
have done some crying over that letter. On your account I hated to write it, but I
am sure your judgement will approve our course. Homer wrote the muster out rolls
were being made out, preparatory to mustering in. By orders from Washington that
business was stopped. The reason of which I am ignorant. I suppose some change in
the papers is contemplated. When they come we shall proceed to the business again.
I can not say now how soon we shall start for Wisconsin. Many would prefer going
home two months from now; but for my own part, I would rather go now, if it is cold
up there. We could visit with more advantage and enjoyment I think than in the
spring.
I learn from the Chicago Tribune of the 1st that a terrible snowstorm has
visited the whole north. R.R. trains blockaded - 3 feet of snow at St. Paul - very
cold, disagreeable weather. Let me describe the weather here at that time. The
28th, 29th-30th Dec. it rained hard unexpectectly. The 31st it cleared off with a
slight flurry of snow and grew colder than it has been here for 30 years. Then cam
more rain. Every body complained and shivered - the citizens said the cold was due
to the presence of so many Yankees. New Orleans did not like it any better. I have
not experienced as cold weather since we left Kansas. Talk about the sunny South
give me Wisconsin yet.
Our Washington news is that the swindling Department (I mean the Quartermaster and
Company) at Alexandria are being cleaned out - certain chaps who have been fattening
like so many leeches on Uncle Sam are being rather forcibly jerked up. I hope
investigations into those Departments will be made here, for there is certainly a
large amount of stealing going on. Natchez is all quiet at present. We see much,
however, that ought not to be allowed. The secesh are allowed privileges that ought
to be denied them and I am confident that some officers are too much influenced by
their smooth-tongued lingoes; but now and then, an old reprobate is snapped up and
punished. I must tell you of the fix the Methodist minister found himself in the
other night. His name is Watkns, and he lives near our camp. My tent-mate, Jones,
was in the habit of visiting his daughter, and had so worked himself into the
confidence of the entire family that they regarded him as a friend. Naturally
enough their rebel proclivities began to take a practical shape in avowals of
sympathy with the confederate cause and in requests of him to purchase revolvers,
cartridges, soldiers pants and c for them. Watkins has a son out here with the
rebels and for him, he wanted the articles. Jones, penetrating their design and
wishing to entrap them, particularly the old man consented to the proposals. We
acquainted the Provost Marshall of his purpose, who told him to go ahead; and the
other night Jones, the Provost and 7 guards went to his house, arrested him and two
other men who belong to the rebel army. Watkins was old, told Jones he was never so
deceived in a man in his life, and is now under $10,000 bail.
I hope you did not vote to screen drafted men from the draft. I had not
dreamed River Falls would commit suicides. It was already overburdened with taxes
and how it hopes to extricate itself after the foolish addition you refer to, I can
not see. Can the town spare the volunteers better than the drafted men and can it
afford to pay out money in that way. Either the financial affairs of the place have
improved much of late or else it has entrusted itself to the guidance of the blind.
Certainly under the stimulus of big bounties men ought to volunteer, but, to tell
you how the soldiers feel about it, if the people are foolish enough to favor such a
policy, let them pay and the whole of it. The idea of the soldiers having to share
in there taxes is ridiculous. But if the people will fiddle themselves, let them
pay for the music and as the soldiers say, for the whole of it.
The rebels are feeling badly now over their finances - they see they can
not carry on the war much longer without money and anticipate in the event of
failure to redeem their currency, “the horrors of a guerrilla warfar” as well. They
have arrived at that point where a forced loan is a necessity. They shrink at the
fact but are endeavoring to brace themselves for the crises - say “the promise to
pay” must be redeemed, no matter who loses or gains by the change. The effect of
such a loan will be bad for them, but if adopted will work well. I think for us.
While defeat and disaster crown upon their armies, their cause grows rapidly
unpopular with their own people, and most assuredly will all forcing schemes
resorted to stop if necessary. The time is not far distant when the people of the
South will rise up and help put this trouble down. The Radical Government has
worked well thus far in Del, Md, Vir, Mo, and will in the other states after a
while. The President’s Amnesty Proclamation is in many places favorably regarded.
Every thing goes to show that the end is near. Of course the rebel leaders talk big
but that is a game they are obliged to play to suit circumstances, but they do
occasionally snake some glaring confessions that must and are opening eyes of the
people to the doom that awaits them. For instance, here is one from the Richmond
Whig - “Slavery has stabbed itself to death. It has sinned against the light,
committed the unpardonable sin and must die.” Will the Southern people want any
better warning, coming as it does from one of their leading organizations. I hope
to see nothing left than the extinction of slavery and this damnable aristocracy. I
have no fears otherwise. The year, 1864, I believe, will witness the end of
fighting. The President has the power to end it, and it seems to me he will try as
hard as he can to do it before he goes out of the Chair. He is gaining friends in
the army and abroad. Foreign nations are beginning to see he is a great statesman
and are now willing to let us alone. I hope he will be the next President. My
sheets are full and I will conclude. Write soon all of you and often.
Yours affectionately,

Edwin Levings
Co. A. 12th Wis. Vol.

January 24th, 1864 - Camp at Clear Creek

January 24th, 1864 - Camp at Clear Creek

Dear Parents.

You will be surprised to learn we are back at our old camp at Clear Creek
in rear of Vicksburg. We were ordered up here the 22nd - left Natchez the day
following, reached Vicksburg at sunset next day and yesterday came out here. We
received yours of the 28th at Natchez and also those of Cousins Lottie and Hattie,
which we will answer in a few days. I have not time just now to write as I would
like and you must excuse a poor letter this time. I will tell you what is about to
be done. McPherson is going to make a big raid out beyond Jackson and we expect to
go along too. It will doubtless be the most extensive raid of the war and if
successful, will damage the rebels in no small degree. Perhaps it will be
preliminary to some more important movement elsewhere. There are many stories in
circulation as to what is intended, but as the Gent’s keep the matter secret, we are
left to our own speculating at present. From what I can learn, I think we shall
strike at Jackson and penetrate to Meridian 90 or 100 miles east of the former
place, where there are large manufactories and destroying all in our course,
plundering the rebels as much as we choose. So much you may reckon as probable.
Now for a little speculation and for some stories that are afloat. Some assert the
Big Black River bridge is to be rebuilt, that the R.R. is to be repaired as far as
Jackson and that the Military Governor whoever he is is to take his seat at that
place. Another rumor is troops are coming down the Mobile and Ohio R.R. from
Corinth on a mission similar to our own, perhaps joining us at Meridian. Possibly
our movement is for the purpose of recalling the scattered forces of rebels going to
reinforce Johnson's army, or preliminary to an attack on Mobile, as it will destroy
all supplies and rolling stock on the Miss road. A lot of pontoons have been
improved of construction at Vicksburg and were to be done today. The report is 10
or so thousand of Hurlbut’s troops arrived at Chickasaw Bayou yesterday and are to
constitute a part of the expedition. Yazoo City I understand will receive attention
too. The expedition will probably consist of 25 to 30,000 troops. The rebels in
Miss. are estimated at not more than 15,000. We shall have some fighting, perhaps,
and a good time, probably - shall be gone. Perhaps 30 or 40 days, perhaps less. We
shall start about the 1st next month. So we veteran chaps will not get home as soon
as expected, but after this raid is over, the Gen. says we can be spared to go home.
Fully 3/4 of the entire Corps are Veterans. We are to be mustered before this
march, but not to be paid till after our return. I understand the Veterans are to
be credited to the counties they are from and are to receive the $100 bounty of
those counties. Very well. If you want to give us $100 all right. You’ll not loss
anything if your taxes are higher. Now if you don’t get any letters for a month or
so, if you get not any, remember we are not in circumstances perhaps, at that time
so write, but if opportunity occur, we shall surely write. I will write again
before we leave. The weather is superb - warm and pleasant enough. Write us often.
Direct to Vicksburg, Co. A. 12th Wis. Vol. 3rd B. 4 Div. via Cairo to Vicksburg. Our
love and best wishes to you all.

Edwin D. Levings.
We [his brother Homer and Edwin] are both in excellent health as we always are.

January 7th, 1864 - Natchez, Miss

January 7th, 1864 - Natchez, Miss

Ever Dear Parents.

We have had no letter from you for a week and are quite anxious to hear
from you. I hardly know how to express on paper what I want to say to you and wish
I could see you, though but for one hour. This letter, I expect, will excite in you
some regret, particularly, if you are in receipt of our late letters; but I hope it
will produce as much pleasure, and that before you finish reading it, you will be
able to say - well and good. Now to the subject. We have both re-enlisted as
Veterans. We had had no such intention, as we before told you; but after a careful
reconsideration of the matter, in which we were not influenced by excitement, we
concluded it was better for us and yourselves and our Country to reenter the service
and stay till this rebellion was crushed. We should have gladly consulted with you
about it, could we have done so. You are disappointed, I know we will know that you
had long hoped for and expected. You had fondly thought that at the expiration of
our 3 years we were coming home to stay; You had counted the months; You had thought
of nice plans, and much happiness we would all have when again reunited. We knew it
all better than I can write it. We had reckoned on it with as much pleasure as you
had; and when reflecting whether to reenlist all these enjoyments came up before our
minds and we hated to leave you and them again for life in the army. We would
rather have served out our time and quick but duty to the Country seemed to require
our services longer. It was a great sacrifice for us to give up home, friends,
privileges again and it is a great sacrifice for you, but I ask you with all the
affection of my heart, is the sacrifice too great. I know you will say, it is not
our Country is worth all it costs. We had but 10 months more to serve and did not
like to desert the field when so many were going to remain and when the rebellion is
so near ended. Many have one into the Veteran service and have made greater
sacrifices. Should we hang back, well, healthy, and young as we are, our relating
so favorable? Were we at home next winter we should have to stand the draft. If
the war was not ended we should be uneasy and want to be in the army.
I can not see how the rebellion can last 2 years longer. Have we not every
reason to be encouraged and to continue the struggle? Do not facts go to show that
this rebellion can not survive that length of time? When the government is doing
its utmost to crush it and calls for our help for a few months longer, ought we to
disregard that voice? It has never deceived us, and the prospect is brighter than
ever and points to a sure and speedy success. Let us review the progress we have
made. 2 years ago the rebel armies had full swing in Mo. the invasion of Ky. had
not been made. In 4 months we had driven them from these states. Through middle
and western Tenn. and occupied their strongholds. We confidently thought the war
could not last 18 months. We found out our mistake. We can not miscalculate now.
We know their strengths. Their means of warfare are nearly gone. Look at the
desperate straits they are in. See their dismay, their boasted confederacy is
crushed in on all sides. Their resources are fast decreasing and how can they fight
much longer. When their remaining territory on which they depend for supplies is in
our possession it is physically impossible for them to fight. The fighting, I
think, must be over before the close of 1864. Gen. Grant is getting his supplies
into Chattanooga, and when all is ready, the final move in that direction will be
made and under the terrible blows there inflicted, and elsewhere down will go this
wicked rebellion and haughty confederacy.
Now this reorganization of the armies is going to prove a great victory
over the rebels. They are endeavoring to reap consolation from this fact; viz. that
the time of most of our troops would expire next spring. They expect to put old,
discipline troops against new. They think we would rather go home than fight them
longer; but we are going to come the Yankee on them. When they see that they have
got to fight the old troops they will turn in despair.
By reenlisting now we gain 10 months on the 3 years. We get the $402.00 bounty in
addition to our monthly wages, which are likely to be increased, an effort to that
effect now being made by congress; also, the old bounty, $100. An order from
McPherson has come stating the paymaster is to pay us in a few days. I forgot to
say we receive pay for all the clothing we have not drawn on the first two months of
the 3rd year of first enlistment When paid we shall get the old bounty $100, $60.
Of the new, a premium of $2.00, one month’s pay $13.00 and two months pay due us on
first enlistments, $26.00 which adds up to $201.00 and $402.00 for both of us. If
we both serve 2 years only we would receive during that time $1,428.00. If the pay
of soldiers is raised it would be more. Besides we are coming home soon. Start for
Wis. in 10 or 12 days at most - are to be absent 4 months, unless emergencies
require our return sooner, and are to have 60 days furlough - a fact - from Madison.
Now have we done wisely or not? Jan 8th - Yours of Dec. 21 is fresh received in
which you refer to the Capt.s visit. Well you can pay your taxes now and not feel
it. Glad to help you in any way we can. Now, we are coming home, so look out the
window about the 15 this month for two Veteran volunteers. Write soon and direct
Co. A, 12th Wis. Veteran Volunteers. via Cairo. Yours with love,

Edwin.

Dale, Jack, Sibly and Williams did not reenlist.

July 11th, 1864 - Chatahoochee River, GA

July 11th, 1864 - Chatahoochee River, GA

Dear Parents:
I will improve the morning in writing to you. We were glad to hear from
again and to know that all are well at home. Night before last we received a Ruial
and Sentinel from you and had something to read once more. Continue to send it from
time to time such papers and you will furnish not us only but others, the means of
pleasant and profitable recreation. You do not know what a strong desire there is in
the army for reading matter. A paper, book or track is eagerly seized and read by
many and I often wish the boys were better supplied with something to read.
We have been talking this morning about sending to you for some
stationaries and concluded it will pay so to do. Note paper costs here 60 cents per
square and envelopes 65 cents per package. It will be very high for some time yet.
We have used all we had, and unless we can get some more soon - it is a scarce
article - we shall have to write on our cartridge paper. When we get to Atlanta, we
will try and get a supply; but when that will be I am unable to say. The last
sentence is awkward, sent to amend it is hardly worth any waste of paper so let it
go. Will you send us by next mail, then, I require note paper and one package of
envelopes and have it so arranged that it will not be charged letter postage. We are
both in good health, yet, and so are the boys. The weather is pretty warm but not
more so then in Wisconsin. I judge, I suppose the farmers are busy now with
preparations for harvest.
Sherman is still winning. The army is steadily gaining ground on the
rebels. We conclude Atlanta is almost within our grasp. The rebels in our front fell
back across the Chatahoochee night before last to another line of entrenchments. We
were on picket. Word came by messenger of the movement and before daylight the boys
started over to the lines. The captain and 20 men, including Homer, were the first
into the big front. As there were no orders to go and as some of the others
companies were firing at them supporting the rebels I thought I would not be in a
hurry. I concluded I needed a little sanctuary and so I picked a handful of
blackberries. As soon as dawn we all went over. One of the boys captured three
rebels and their arms, he found them asleep. Our troops then came over and the
skirmish line was pushed up to within three yards of the river where we could look
right down on the Johnny's and see them plainly. We hastily rolled up our logs and
piled up rails for shelter, the rebs shooting at us lively from behind their works,
across the river thinking to drive us away. The boys would crawl up rolling logs
before them till they had enough and then Mr. Reb had to lie low. Some of them we
know bit the dust. John Crippen who came to see Homer several times when he was
wounded near the shoulder blade while in the rifle pits. The wound is not deep, nor
serious, but will probably be sore. The other casualty in the company William Olson,
leg, he's formerly of our company, was killed that very day while on the skirmish
line, shot in the head. The rebs have 2 or 3 lines of strong earthworks near the
river. There is one for we view. The 16th and 20th corps have crossed the river on
our right. We got some of the Atlanta papers of the 8th of July and they are full of
bragaderio and deceit. They are whistling to beef their courage up. I wish I had one
to give you. Well I think this campaign will not end with the capture of Atlanta but
it may, if Grant destroys Lee's army.
The rebels rest their hopes mainly on Lee's army which they say Johnston is
not match for Sherman. I will have him soon right in. He wants him. I will be there.

July 24th, 1864 - Near Atlanta GA

July 24th, 1864 - Near Atlanta GA

Ever Dear Parents,
I hasten to write you knowing you must be anxious about us, for ever this
reaches you the news of battle in Georgia will have come. We have had no chance to
write for the last ten days and we have heard nothing from you during that time. We
are both safe and unhurt thanks to our heavenly protection who cares for us all.
Dear father and mother, news of the battle of the 21st and 22nd inst. has reached
you through the papers and I know with what anxiety you await some tidings from us.
We were both in short battles. Our division charged an important point of the rebel
works, took it and held it. The fourth division on our right did not charge. This
was on Thursday the 21st, halfway between Decatur and Atlanta, and directly east of
Atlanta. For four or five days the 17th corps proceeded by other corps had been
swinging around to the east of Atlanta, via Marietta, Rossville and Decatur. We
crossed the Chattahoochee she near Rossville. Our forces had severed and destroyed
the railroad running east to Augusta and had met but little opposition. On the 20th,
we passed through Decatur and took up a position four and a half miles from Atlanta
in the fourth division supported by the third, drove the rebels back 1 1/2 miles
with but slight loss. At dark the third division took up its position on the left of
the fourth division and at 7 a.m. next morning made the charge. Our brigade suffered
fearfully. Company A and B skirmishers followed by the 12th led the charge. The rest
of the brigade, 16th Wisconsin, 20th, 30th and 31st Illinois infantry supported us
over a hill through a corn field, into a piece of thick woods we went driving the
rebels from their first lying of works in most gallant style, and inflicting some
loss to the rebels. Would to God, this were the better half of the story! My heart
aches with sadness as I proceed to give the account. Our proud old 12th lost 156 men
in killed, wounded and missing. The battle lasted a little over an hour. The rebels
fought obstinately. We went beyond their works, but a terrible flank fire compelled
us to fall back behind their works. Company A lost 20 men killed, wounded, one-third
the number engaged. The killed are William Hodges, David S. Dresser, Henry Bowers,
Julius Olson, George W. Mosse, Fabian Halverson. Wounded: Robert Triggs, mortally;
James Nealman, left arm amputated; orderly Sergeant Alva McKee, slightly; Jeremiah
Baniff, severely; Andrew H. Ottoman; Morris Denhein, severely; Albert Barrett,
slightly; Frank Barrett, badly in the shoulder; William Barrett, slightly in the
hand; McCollunm, slightly in leg; Olin, slightly in leg; Jack Larrulters, slightly
scratched on arm; Zymess, leg; Hammer, slightly. Total six killed and 14 wounded,
James Raleon, Co. I was not hurt. The rebel fire was very hot. I laid behind a log
for one-hour with some others near the rebel breast works. During that time the
rebels killed six of our boys and wounded 7, all less than 25 feet from me. We dared
not raise our heads to shoot, but finally crawled off. Our boys were truly brave and
have been complimented for their valor. The rebels were ugly fellows to handle, but
prisoners (we took 40) stated that they never saw troops charge as a determinedly as
we. But this battle was nothing to that of the 22nd. The rebels attempted to destroy
McPherson's command, the 15th, 16th and 17th corps. They amassed their forces to the
16th corps occupying the extreme left and nearly doubled it up on the 17th. We were
drawing rations just about noon when we heard faint musketry in our rear and saw our
division trains moving off as fast as possible. Men running for dear life, fifteen
minutes. The great battle had barely begun. The rebels were coming on to the 16th
corps and were driving it back out of the woods, yelling constantly. The 4th
division had moved to our left and it was driven back and I believe if it were not
for our 3rd division and some of the 15th corps they have utterly destroyed us. For
six hours the battle raged ferociously and the 16th corps and the 4th division 17th
lost terribly. We checked the rebels, threw up a new line to connect with that of
the 3rd division and facing south. We had not finished it when the rebels charged on
our brigade over the same ground we did the day before for the same works. The line
of our third and second brigades was that of a horse shoe and our regiment faced
west, towards Atlanta. The rebels came up five lines deep, drunk with whiskey and
gun powder and some of them actually got inside our works, but never went out. They
could not take the position. The musketry was awful and the slaughter of rebels was
awful, a great many were captured. We buried all our and their dead in front of our
line yesterday. There were rebel guns enough in our front to arm two Regiment's. I
tell you the boys felt bad when they saw our men falling back at the commencement of
the battle. It was almost a Bull Run affair, if we did not hold our position we knew
we were "gone up" and resolved never to give it up as long as we had a cartridge.
Many regiments lost half their man before the rebels were checked and many there nap
sacks. Our train was not captured, part of our nap sacks were left over across a
creek and fell into rebels hands. We both lost everything we had but our oil cloths.
We can get along without till the campaign is over. I have borrowed stationery to
write you. The rebels were driven hastily back and have concluded it was a sorry job
they undertook. All is very quiet today. General McPherson was killed while coming
to us. Our brigade General Horace was wounded. General Grisham was wounded a day or
two before. During the rebel charge the 12th, 14th, 17th were ordered to fire in
front on both flanks, but strange to tell very few were hit. Our regiment lost but
few men that day. The 16th did splendid fighting, so did all the troops. General
Logan now takes McPherson's place. Sherman went through our lines yesterday and was
loudly cheered. I am suffering a good deal from a boil on my left knee, I can hardly
walk. We have built works with traverses to guard against flank fire and are going
to hold our ground. If they come again we can use them up. Homer has the toothache
some, otherwise is well and hearty. Jack is all right. Wood commands the rebel army.
In the second days fight he lost 12 men, one wounded, one missing. Samuel Roberts is
the missing one. He was with the regimental wagons and is supposed to have been
killed or captured. Nothing is known concerning him. I pity his family, I must not
write anymore. Write us soon and often. Give my love to cousins S. and H. and tell
them we hope to hear from them soon. Affectionately yours,

Edwin D. Levings

Since we came to Sherman's army we have lost over 200 men.

July 26th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, Ga

July 26th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, Ga

Dear Father and Mother,

Last night the mail arrived bringing us 4 letters and 2 papers - 2 letters
of the 4th and 20th inst. from you; the other 2 from Grandmother and Cousin Emma.
We had had none for 2 weeks; and if I ever felt grateful for letters, I did last
night. You should have seen the almost wild joy of the boys when it was announced
the mail had come, and a very large one too. Can you not imagine our eager joy at
the receipt of letters from loved ones, especially after a battle? How gladly each
reads the cheering words, notes the solicitude felt for him, and so on, and then
comes welling up from the heart the wish that they knew now that he is safe and
well. I wrote you last Sabbath, but do not suppose the mail went out. It will go
today, I think, and this will give you two days later intelligence from us. We have
had no fighting since the battles of the 21st and 22nd inst. Our army has been
digging and throwing up works almost constantly since, and every one believes if the
rebels come on to us again we can hold our own against all odds, and about use them
up. We are fortified in front, rear and on both flanks. Our Div. is determined to
hold the horse shoe line it charged and took on the 21st. If the rebels could not
take it on the 22nd charging on the south and weaker side, I doubt they can do it
now, strengthened as we are, unless they outflank us. I have heard it asserted that
the credit of saving the left wing of our army that day from a most disgraceful
defeat is due to our 3rd Division. They fought like heroes and will be termed such.
The rebels came on 4 or 5 lines deep and charged as many times. Once some of them
actually got inside our works, but they never got out. The rebels that charged our
Corps are said to be Longstreet’s old Corp. They are ugly fellows but gun powder
and whiskey, with which their canteens were filled, did not same them nor help them
at all. They carried off many of their wounded during the night, but their dead -
we had to bury them mostly ourselves. How many they lost I can not say - have not
heard a guess. Gens Sherman and Logan were riding over the ground the following day
and one remarked, so goes the story, to the other that he had never seen as many
rebels dead on so small a piece of ground. Lt. Kelsey says he counted 32 dead on a
space of ground 40 feet square. On the left of the Div. a whole rebel Brigade broke
through when the 15th Corp reinforcing us captured them. Here it was where our
beloved McPherson was killed. He rode down into a ravine up which the rebels were
coming out knowing they were in it. 2 rebel soldiers robbed him of his effects, but
did not know they had killed McPherson. I think the rebels have had reinforcements.
They are reported moving to our left again. My boil on my knee made me so lame I
could not walk. It is getting better now. We miss the loss of our things some, but
are not bothered with a load now. Mother, will you send me a testament, mine was
gobbled as was Homer’s also. This is all the paper I have and Homer wishes to write
some. So I close. Write soon and believe me ever your affectionate boy.

Edwin.

July 29th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, Ga

July 29th, 1864 - Near Atlanta, Ga

Ever Dear Parents,

In my last I promised to write you as usual in spite of the scarcity of
paper, and here it goes. We are both well and save. I intimated in my last that we
were about to move. Unexpectedly to me we moved around to the west side of the city
abandoning our strong works. The entire Tenn. Army, 3 Corps, 15th, 16th, 17th,
swing around to the west side. We marched all day the 27th to do it. At night a
skirmish line was thrown out and no advanced 3/4 of a mile. Yesterday morning the
whole line advanced and after some sharp skirmishing a high commanding ridge was
secured and the line established. The 2nd Div. 15th Corps. charged and were
repulsed with heavy loss. The rebels coming out of their works and chasing them up
on the ridge. Fighting of the most desperate character then began and raged from
noon till dark. The rebels were the same we fought on the other side of the city.
They had marched all night to get here and had orders to drive us back if they lost
every man. Time after time the rebels threw themselves on our boys, but were
repulsed every time with awful slaughter. The fighting was heaviest in front of the
15th Corps. At one time they nearly broke through and would, had not 3 regiments
from our Corps including the 12th Wis. double quicked a mile to the relief of our
boys. The 12th gave a tremendous yell as they came up and poured volley after
volley into the rebel ranks that were coming through cornfields and the Johnnies had
to beat and precipitate retreat. We have the honor of saving the day. The 12th is
winning a proud name in the battles around Atlanta. The 15th Corps lost
considerably, the 17th Corps loss was small. The 12th lost perhaps 20 killed and
wounded. Co. A had 3 or 4 wounded; one only severely, John Hunter in shoulder.
Edward Tubman, left forefinger. Francis Van Warner, arm; Ira A Williams of River
Falls, received a slight wound in the thigh. He is with the Co. this morning ready
for duty again. I was not in the fighting yesterday, my leg was so bad that they
left me behind. I could not run or hurry at all if necessary, so had to stay. I
hated to do it, and at night went up to the Co. My boil is much better and I think
I can do duty in the ranks again. Reinforcements from the 14th Corps came up last
evening, and this morning our Regiment was relieved and has just come back to its
first position. Gen. Hood Comdg. the rebels is a great fighter. Prisoners state
they don’t like him because he gets so many men killed. We are perfectly willing
they should waste themselves away in such fighting. Their case is desperate, or
they would not do it. We received that tea and dried fruit on the 26th and you may
be assured we were pleased enough to get it. Came pretty quick. The boys using
tobacco are in great need of that article. Jack wishes you to see Syman Powell and
tell him he wants him to send him 1 lb. of chewing tobacco by earliest mail; if
Syman can not, or does not attend to it, he would like you to do it and look to him
for the pay. We would like him to send 1/2 lbs. tea, also. “The stuff that cheers,
but not inebriates.” Our boys are busy this forenoon fortifying. Madam Rumor says
rebels are about receiving help from Virginia. I doubt it after the Atlanta R.
Roads are cut. We shall look for letters from you to day. Cousin Emma wrote us the
other day a good long letter including a fine “photo.” Homer is washing and I am
writing. I expect we had better change places. If you should see me now. You
would ask is that Edwin. Pretty hard life we have now, but we are all full of
confidence and are determined to win and will. John Rice’s regiment was transferred
to some other part of the army when ours was and left. I believe back in the R.R.
near Marietta. Father, what need is there of your working at painting? You are
well enough off. You can buy some land and work it, which will be far better for
your health and more satisfactory. We want you to use that money for yourselves.
If we get killed we don’t want it. If wounded or not, we can take care of ourselves
and never will be any the worse off for your using it. Now why don’t you do it and
be content. You are too old now to do much business and since there is no need of
your working yourselves so hard, it would certainly more ascend with our feelings
that you take it more easy. Never mind taxes. That will be all right. It is morn
and I must stop. Write soon and often to your affectionate boy,

Edwin.

July 4th, 1864 - Ga

July 4th, 1864 - Ga

Camp of the 12th Wis. Vet Vols.

Ever Dear Parents,

As there is a chance to write and mail letters, I hasten to improve it.
Your last letter, I think has been answered.
I suppose the people of the North are today celebrating their independence with an
enthusiasm such as never marked the 4th before. To add to the joyousness of the
day, perhaps, has come the news of victory over the rebels. I hope you have such
news - may the day not pass away without a national rejoicing over our military
achievements in the cause of right.
Well, now, where do you guess I am, today. In camp, of course, I might say
in the wilderness, but that would be too indefinite, so I will define our position
more clearly. Day before yesterday, the 2nd the 17th Corps received orders to load
the wagons and move them westward, and the men to be ready to follow at 8 p.m. The
other Corps had the same orders. We at once concluded we were going to swing around
to the right and cross the Chattahoochie River. Accordingly we moved, marching the
greater part of the night and all day yesterday; and now we are 3 miles north of the
river, farther from Atlanta than when in front of Kenesaw Mountain but in more
probability of getting there.
There was a report yesterday purporting to be official from Sherman that he
had taken 7000 prisoners. I do not credit it yet as to number. We did capture a
lot of them, cutting them off from their main force, and in our front on another
road and further down the river is another lot said to be cut off. I do not think
it large. Some of the 15th Corps skirmished with them in the afternoon of yesterday
and drove them a mile and a half when our Div relieved them. We are lying still
this forenoon, but after dinner I think we will get orders to press the chaps and
try and gobble them. This is all the news I have for you. We left the rebels in
possession of the Kenesaw Mountain, but we knew they had nearly all gone and came
this way, there being less obstructions to crossing. It is believed Johnson will
fall back to Cedar Bluffs 9 miles south of Atlanta, where the rebels say the Yanks
can not come.
The weather is pretty warm and we find marching rather uncomfortable. We are both
well and in first rate spirits. It will soon be so warm, that we thought to have
you send us a few things that we shall then need, more than at any other time. You
can send them by mail. Then we shall be likely to get them. We would like you to
send us 1/2 lb of tea and 1 or 2 lbs. of dried currents. I would not send for them,
if we were near any Commissary Post, or if there was any probability of getting such
things within a few weeks. If the postage would be more than the things are worth -
you need not send them. We would like the tea soon. In warm weather we need such
things, not the hearty Govt. rations altogether. I want something acid, so I
mention currants. I do not think of anything more. Remember to send some stamps I
mentioned in my last and some Rivals or other papers.
I hope to hear from you soon. We want to hear from Cousins Hattie and
Lottie, also.
Yours affectionately,

E.D. Levings

July 6th, 1864 - Ga

July 6th, 1864 - Ga

Camp of the 12th Wis. Vet Vols. Ga.

Ever Dear Parents,

We looked for yesterday’s mail to bring us a letter from you, but no letter
came; and as we have determined to write you often and keep you informed of our
welfare and movement, we will not wait for answers.
I wrote you on the 4th. Yesterday the 17th Corps again advanced and gallantly
charged and drove the rebels back to their works on the Chattahoochie. The 4th Div.
drove them 3 miles. Our Brig charged in their advance works and drove them out
without losing a man. We had to advance over very uneven ground, covered with thick
woods and bushes, and frequently the lines had to be halted and reformed to prevent
confusion. Co B. with companies from the other Regts skirmished with the rebels and
he balance of the 32nd Ill and the 12th followed closely as supports. Behind us was
another line and when we neared their works both lines commenced yelling; and the
skirmishers halting to let us pass, we dashed up a hilly slope in the woods and
entered their works and planted our colors. We pressed them so hard and raised such
a yell that we hardly got a sight of the Confederacies. A short rest, and we
renewed the chase for another mile, when we came in view of the rebels works, and
halted. Then our batteries began shelling their forts and were answered by a
vigorous fire, till finally the rebels for some cause ceased firing. About 5 p.m.
we again advanced, almost all the way on the run, leaving our knapsacks behind. We
were nearly out of breath climbing and descending the hills which were covered with
dense brush and scattering large trees. We reached our present position when a
charge was determined upon. When the order came, the little Col. shook his head as
much as to say he should do no such thing. We told the Staff Off. how disadvantaged
the ground was and called the Col. of the 32nd to go with him to lay the facts
before the Brig. Commander, Col. Sanderson; but there seems no chance to avoid a
charge, and preparations for it commenced, when Co. A. went down in front and
relieved Co. B on the skirmish line. For some reason unknown to me the charge was
not made. Col. Logan of W-32nd said whiskey came near making us make the charge. We
should have lost our whole brigade, I believe, if we had made it. I do not think
Gen. Gresham or Blair knew the character of the ground in front of us. I will
describe it. Our skirmish line is on a creek 1/4 of a mile distant. That of the
rebs 200 yds or more further on. The water is from 3 to 5 feet in depth and swift.
The banks are lined with bushes which afford no protection from bullets. A Regt
could not get across under the murderous artillery fire to which it would expose in
an hour, except after dark, 600 yds from the creek is a heavily wooded ridge. A
little to the left in the open ground is one of the finest forts I ever saw. I can
count 7 embrasures in it. The rebels have certainly expended a great amount of
labor in its construction. It commands the sloping ground in front for half a mile.
In front of it is a strong abattis of brush and sharpened stakes driven obliquely
into the ground. Their breastworks are of the first class. Last night there was a
great stir over in their lines. We could hear distinctly wagons and artillery
rattling along, men shouting and laughing, officers giving command to troops and
etc. The supposition was the chaps were falling back as we could hear wagons moving
across a bridge or pontoons. I could not believe it. I think it was reinforcements
coming up. They were chopping all night also and the rebels are still there. They
shot pretty close to me this morning when drinking my coffee. We dug rifle pits but
were soon relieved by some of the 15 Corps boys A few minutes ago a piece of shell
from one of our own batteries in the rear broke off in its flight and killed two men
of the 12th. I do not know their names. 3 of the 32 were killed by rebel shell
last night. Co. B lost 3 wounded in skirmishes yesterday. I think we shall chance
upon them by digging riffle pits. No firing today to amount to much. The regts
have entrenched themselves and lying still. Guess we will take it more easy for a
time and to be so. We are both well and safe. I mean unhurt. Write to us soon.
Yours affectionately,

Edwin Levings

June 13th, 1864 - Near Big Shanty Ga

June 13th, 1864 - Near Big Shanty Ga

Camp of the 12th Wis. Vols.

My Dear Parents,
An opportunity is offered for mailing letters at 4 p.m. and I gladly
improve it to inform you where I am, how I am, and what is transpiring here. We are
at the front, right up to the rebels who are strongly entrenched along the mountains
about 15 or 20 miles from Atlanta and are picking away with some spirit. We are
dong the same to them. Are posted on the left of the R.R. which is in operation up
to our lines. In front of us at the distance of 1 mile is Lost Mountain, at the
base of which the rebels have breastworks and forts ready to receive us. On the
summit is stationed their Signal Corps and it is thought they have two heavy guns up
there also. We are in the valley, which is of a rolling surface, and are entrenched
also. Our camps and fortifications are in the edge of the woods about 1 mile from
theirs. Our breastworks we built yesterday and the day before of rails, logs,
timber and etc. with earth thrown up in front. The rifle pits are but 60 rods
beyond and but 80 or 100 rods from the rebel pits. I do not know whether the
intention is to charge the rebels over such ground or not. If it is there will be a
bloody time. The enemy have all the advantage and it looks as though he could keep
it if we move forward in his front. The belief is that 2 corps have moved to flank
them, and our demonstrations are mainly to divert their attention. Certainly, the
rebels have a tremendously strong position and I think Sherman has got something to
do before he gets them out of it and captures Atlanta. As yet the rebels have not
opened on us with artillery in our front. (I mean the 17th Corps) but they can
shell our camp if they choose in which case we shall have to make for our works.
They would evidently like to draw us out, and then they would treat us to some of
their “watermelons.” I think. It is stated by the best authority that Johnson’s
force is 80,000. How many we have I know not. 7 A. Corps at least, are represented
here. The 4th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 23rd.
I wrote on the 9th to you from near Acworth. We are about 6 miles from
there. The 3rd Div. had the advance the following days and drove the rebels from
Big Shanty. The rebel cars left that morning and ours came in yesterday. Blowing
loud and long, to let the rebels know we can keep ourselves in supplies. The next
morning we moved forward and took up our present position. We expected a battle but
did not have it. There was some warm skirmishing later in the day and our Brigade
lost a few men, none from the 12th. We advanced through the woods to open fields,
the rebels retreating. Then my Co. lay down under cover of the woods till relieved
at night by another. The balance of the regiment in the meanwhile throwing up
breastworks. We are already to receive the butternuts now. It rains hard all the
time and we can’t keep dry 1/4 the time. Has rained everyday for the past 10 days.
I sleep with one Hodges. We have put up our oil cloths and sleep above the ground,
the water running under us. Our hard marching is over and I am thankful. I had a
letter the other day from Cousin Almond. He says it rains all the time there, and
but few crops are in (that was May 31st). Uncle Myron’s resignation was accepted
and he is home - at Canton with his family. Uncle Israel is at Madrid on a visit.
Cousin Danile Packard had been wounded and was home on 30 day furlough. Geor. A.
Packard is among the wounded under Gen. Butler. No particulars from him. I have
written you all of interest. I will write when I can and you must do the same, not
waiting for me. I have the best of health and shall try and keep it. I shall look
for Homer next week. By that time I hope we shall have the privilege of telling the
people of victory. I hear no news from Richmond. I wish you would send me papers -
some with miscellaneous reading, any kind you have. You do not know what a pleasure
it is to us to have something to read, situated as we are. I think there is not a
sick man in the company. The regiment draws rations for about 40 men. We left
quite a number behind some of whom are sick, some tired and some afraid to come to
the front. But I must close. Now write to me good long letters, and God be with
you all.
Your affectionate boy,

Edwin

June 26th, 1864 - Kenesaw Mountain, Ga

June 26th, 1864 - Kenesaw Mountain, Ga

Camp of the 12th Wis. Vol. Infy

My Dear Parents,

I was waked up from my slumbers this morning by the glad cry, Mail! Mail!
When I jumped up to see what there might for us, and your letter of the 12 inst. was
put into my hands. We are very glad to hear from you again. You can not write too
often. You do not write often enough. I often think home letters have a charm in
them that others have not. “There’s no place like home”; so, too, there seem to be
no letters like those hailing from home; and if we could hear from you more
frequently, why, all the better.
I have not much news for you. The position of the two armies have not
materially changed. We are at a halt. The rebs seem to have settled into the
belief we can come no further, and have renewed the defiant manner so well expressed
by the Scriptural words, “Thus far shall thou come, and no further.” There is the
rattle of musketry on the skirmish line, sometimes fierce and rapid, but generally
feeble and slow, and nobody thinks much about. The fierce artillery duds now and
then occur and cheers by either side go up when a good shot is made. We say at such
times all is quiet, or comparatively quiet, as you see at in the papers. No severe
or decisive fighting is going on. You would say, perhaps, “One is afraid and the
other durs’st.” Really, we are besieging the rebels and have them in about the same
fix that Grant has Lee. It is said the wings of our army are not more than 4 miles
apart, our line being the arc of a circle. You see then it is a hazardous thing for
old Johnson to try and get away. If he attempts it, the wings can fall upon him.
Should he try to break our center, he will rush on certain destruction. I think
Sherman is waiting for a full supply of stores and, perhaps, reinforcement. The
R.R. is pressed to its utmost to bring supplies and can hardly do it. There were
but two days rations at Big Shanty Depot yesterday. You will understand, then, how
it happens we have gone so long without soap. We drew a little yesterday (soft
soap) a donation of the Sanitary Commission. God bless the Sanitary Commission.
The boys are generally in first rate health and full of confidence. The “Blue
packets” are all right. Sherman is reported to have said the other day the rebels
had staid here one day too many. If our army is located as said to be, the rebels
will have to “go up the spout.” We are in more danger here than we were at
Vicksburg. The rebels can shell us to our discomfort, but they do not molest our
camp much. The boys run about in plain view - as unconcernedly as though no enemy
were near
We are very glad to that butter, tea, berries, etc. We do not draw any
thing but hard tack, port, beef, salt, coffee and sugar, and these delicacies come
in the nick of time and answer for variety, or desert, if you like it better. When
the transportation facilities are so limited we can not get any more than what is
absolutely essential. We will have a better chance when we get to Atlanta. Wheat
is ready to harvest, but there is nobody to harvest it but Uncle Sam’s mules and
horses, and they need it all and more. Our battery horses were in fine condition
when we left Cairo, but are not pretty poor. They get but half rations of corn. If
you can get a colt to match Homer’s I would like it, and whatever the expense of
keeping it may be you may charge to me. I hope you will not work yourself down
again, and I certainly hope you will not move out to Hudson, for then I know you
will work too hard. Are you not to have any rain up there. I do not see what you
will do, but probably there will be something raised - more than you expect, so you
will not hunger. I need some stamps and I wish you would send 50 cts. worth or more
by next letter. I will not send the money for them as I can not get the bill I have
broken. The weather is much warmer now - not much rain. We are both well. I shall
have to close as my sheet is full. Write soon. Yours as ever,

Edwin.

June 9th, 1864 - Acworth, Ga

June 9th, 1864 - Acworth, Ga

My Dear Parents:

I wrote last from Rome, but did not write much for the want of time. I now
hasten to improve the first opportunity and to give you an account of our march over
the mountains, for I know there rests on your minds a feverish anxiety to learn how
I stood the tramp.
The 3rd and 4th Divisions, 17th Corps. left Decatur, Ala on the 27th and
arrived here yesterday, having marched a distance of 330 miles, with but a single
day’s rest during the time. The 12th never did as hard marching before - its
Meridian march is no comparison. No other march ever tested the patience and
endurance of the men so severely, and I have not a doubt but that it has produced
effects that will lead to many a broken down constitution. The whole command
suffered a great deal from the fatigue of this march and the universal statement is
that it was the hardest time it ever experienced. We carried our knapsacks
lightened of all that could be spared and lived on 2/3 rations which consisted of
hard bread, pork and beef, coffee, sugar, salt and pepper. The mountainous
districts afforded but little to eat. The people were poor and needed all they
possessed, consequently we did not try to forage much upon them. Aside from onions,
a little meat and corn mean, we did not have much to vary our fare. The worst
feature of the march was we were compelled to travel too far in a day. We did not
march more than 15 or 18 miles daily, but that distance under the circumstances was
too much. We were climbing steep mountains and hills fording streams where the
water was sometimes up to the waist were footsore and needed sleep and rest and
carried knapsacks and were discouraged. Old Blair was to blame and when our Div.
Gen. (Gen. Gresham) complained to him and requested a rest, he was inexorable, and
there seemed no way but for each man to abide his fate. He made no allowance for
bad weather, bad roads or anything else, but siting on his fine horse and looking
like a peacock, without a word or a smile for anybody, measured off his regular 15
or 18 miles, making his headquarters at some nice house, obliging us to march
oftentimes till midnight to come up with him - once till 8 in the morning and in
this instance our brigade went to bed without any supper, preferring a little sleep
rather than food; and then were hurried off before they could get breakfast. There
was no necessity for marching us so as we could learn. Blair was reported under
arrest when we arrived at Kingston because he should have been here sooner. We lay
at Cairo longer than necessary and it is thought he meant to make us make up the
time. I have heard many a man say he would shoot him if he ever has a chance, and I
know he is generally very unpopular. Officers up to Div. Generals do not hesitate
to express their dislike of him. President Lincoln will lose a larger vote in this
Corps because of Blair. The opinion is he has given him command simply to appease
the Copperhead sentiment at home. I do not think the boys will fight with much
confidence while he leads them, but enough of this, I will simply say I stood the
march as well as the best of the boys, and am in excellent health. I don’t think
much of this reduced, “improved, ration system.” We do not have enough to eat of
some things; for instance, sugar and meat of which we get but 1/2 rations. I would
rather they would keep their extra pay and give me full rations. I presume the
calculations are to live largely off the country, and I assure you I shall so
endeavor. There will be an abundance of fruit this year and considerable wheat and
corn, which will be good in quality. Wheat will be ready to cut in 2 weeks, but
there will be no one to cut it.

Edwin

May 9th, 1864 - Cairo, Ills

May 9th, 1864 - Cairo, Ills

My Dear Parents:

I would not write today did I know I should have another opportunity in a
few days. We expect to leave for up the Tenn. tonight, or tomorrow morning and I
fear if I defer writing this afternoon, I may keep you too long waiting, so I will
drop you a word now, and tell you where we are going.
I understand that we are to proceed up the Tenn. to Clifton, 30 miles this
side of Pittsburg Landings: then are to march to Huntsville which will require 5 or
6 days time. Probably we shall not get there in less than 8 or 10 days. When Homer
comes he will be sent, I think, via Nashville and Decatur in the cars. So he will
miss the march. All our sick, or those unable to march, are to be sent by that
route. The distance by the route we shall take is about 325 miles. We would much
rather go than remain here longer. The impression seems to be we shall not have
much active service yet awhile. That we are to protect the R.R. I do not know how
that is. I want to see the rebellion crushed with all possible energy and dispatch,
and if my service is needed on the battle field, I am perfectly willing to shoulder
my rifle and start - anything, if it will help to put down the rebellion. I think I
am beginning to be a pretty good soldier - I am willing to obey orders from whatever
military source, and my faith in a final glorious triumph of our arms and cause has
not abated one particle, nor has any cheerfulness in the least given away to
gloomings. It does not trouble me who are my officers or who may be the next
President, provided they do not stand in the way of speedily crushing the rebellion.
I have an abiding confidence in the future, and let come what will, I mean to let
patience have her perfect work which will have been, of course, when forbearance
ceased to be a virtue. You may laugh if you want, but that is the way I understand
scripture. With regard to the next President I am not decided yet, I am not certain
but that a more energetic man than Lincoln is now needed at the helm of State.
Lincoln had done well, but another man might do better, perhaps. Your ax may be a
good one, but mine may cut better. To keep off the breakers we must learn to
discern the face of the sky, and act accordingly. We must learn to discern the
signs of the times. There is a fearful amount of recklessness and extravagance in
the management of our political and military affairs, and it becomes us to see
whether we are tending to removing all evil obstructions. I will say I do not
admire the bitter hostility of the Fremont party. There is too much growling, too
many threatening looks. there principles may be correct, but their manner is
certainly not, and they may kill their own party in their bitter zeal to crush that
of Lincoln. Homer will you get mother to make us some ration bags. The boys have
sent a box of clothing and c to Prescott in care of Carlos McCray. Postmaster of
that place. I send home in it my dress coat and rubber blanket which you can get
when you are down at Prescott. The charges will be light. I have drawn a new rubber
blanket. I saw John Rice the other day. He looks well and says he had a fine visit
at Hamilton. Write soon and then direct via Cairo. Yours affectionately.

Edwin

Father, the enclosed receipt I took off Leeman well he did not sign his name to it
or else tore if off I did not notice it till the other day. Get him to sign it and
will you forward to me.

Edwin

November 16th, 1861 - Camp Randall, Madison

November 16th, 1861 - Camp Randall, Madison

Dear Father and Mother.

We have written you three letters already and have received an answer to
the first only, and you may be assured that its arrival was hailed in good earnest,
but we were disappointed in getting so little news. You said you enclosed a letter
from the girls, you did not send it, but sent an old letter of Grandmother’s that we
had read long ago. Quite a joke. Your stated you had received one from Uncle Israel.
Should be glad to get it.
Nov 17th. - I have to write when I can, for the time of the soldier for
writing is fragmentary and then, oftentimes, there is noise to distract his
thoughts. I am sorry Mr. Myers and Mother have left you, but I trust that our
Heavenly Father’s ways with us, though often grievous and past finding our, are
appointed in wisdom and goodness.
We are in first rate health - never had better - I have gained 3 lbs.,
while others have gained 8 or 10. There are above 2000 soldiers in camp and I made
some inquires relative to the daily consumption of different articles of food. The
results of which I will give you; namely, bread, 4000 lbs., beef, 2800 lbs., pork 3
bbs, potatoes, 30 bushels, Molasses 44 gals, butter 450 lbs., dried apples, 3 bbs.
Beans 10 bushels, hot coffee, 640 gals or 2 pts. to a man. Have water for dinner.
Your must remember this is what is eaten, when we have these articles. For
breakfast, one day, we have beef and gravy, bread, butter, coffee, potatoes, hash.
For dinner, in place of hash, soup. For supper, molasses, no potatoes nor hash. Next
day have a change. We have received each a dress coat and a pair of blue pants and
get our caps and overcoats today or tomorrow. The over coats are same color as
paints and have a cape to them. They look much like swaddling clothes, coming down
below the knees. Shall get our pictures taken soon and send them to you. We have
been into the city 3 times. It is a fine place. North of the camp are the University
buildings which are very large and splendid. The capitol building is in the heart of
the city and is only partly finished. The stones of which it is built are very large
and it exceeds in grandeur and splendor anything which I have ever seen. The
ceilings are frescoed. We passed all over it and had a chance to view the scenery.
North East is a small lake upon the opposite shore of which is a large, fine
building. I don’t know what it is. South East is another, spanned by rail road
bridge. Attended preaching today at the Cour. House. There is a great deal of
Sabbath desecration in camp. Here and there may be seen groups of soldiers swearing,
joking, playing ball, &c, but I am glad to able to say that the Sabbath is better
respected in our company. Sabbath after noon there is a dress parade, in the evening
is company prayer meeting.
Dear Mother, I really wish you would write, - write about anything, what
you are doing, &c. Father write often - remember we want to hear from you often. I
do not know where we shall go or when we shall leave. Gov. Randall has returned form
Washington with money enough to pay the soldiers. The 11th will leave soon now.
Give our respects to the neighbors and write soon. Shall get a furlough of
3 days and go and see Grandmother soon.
Ever you affectionate boy.

Edwin.

November 1st, 1861 - Camp Randall

November 1st, 1861 - Camp Randall

My dear Parents:

No news will be of more interest to you than that which pertains to us. We
are in Camp Randall, Madison, at last, all safe and sound, [? Seuving] arrived
Wednesday, at 1 P. M. and are enjoying ourselves hugely; and now I will give a full
account of our journey form beginning to end. The weather during our passage down
the river was cold and rainy. Our fare on the boat was miserable owing to the
meanest of the Stewards, who seemed to think we were little better than hogs feeding
us on the very poorest food. The beef was tough and all gristle. Our officers were
indignant at these insults and reprimanded him most severely. Of the scenery, I will
nothing just now. We arrived at Prairie du Chien at 3.30 P. M. next day and marched
up town to the post which is in a very dilapidated condition and unoccupied, save by
a few Irish. After an excellent meal we left at 6 o’clock for Madison. At 7.30
minutes we reached Boscobel and were just leaving and had proceeded a dozen rods
when the train came very near being precipitated from a bridge 24 feet span in the
water, the distance to the water form the bridge being 15 feet. Had we been under
full speed, any of us would have been hurt or killed. The rear cars in which we were
would never have gone over any how. The two right hand driving the engine wheels of,
lunge over the bridge, the others on it. Two men running up to the scene of disaster
pitched over the embankment into the water. The accident happened through the
heedlessness of the watchman. A kind Providence saved us from destruction. You may
rely on this account as correct for you will here that half of us ere killed, if you
have not already. No one was hurt in the boat. We slept in the cars over night and
at 9 A. M. next morning took the cares sent back form the East and got into Madison
at 1 P. M. We marched into Camp eliciting the surprise and admiration all beholders
especially the boys of the 11th Regt., 1000 in numbers from whom went of cheer on
cheer for us, pronouncing us at once the best Company they had seen. Further more,
our own Colonel in a brief address to us, remarked that we are decidedly the best
Company that has ever come on to the grounds. We feel proud of course. Of the
clothing we have received and our rations. I will speak in my next.
Homer will write you about them and much more tomorrow. Our food is first
rate and an abundance of it. Direct your letter thus;

Camp Randall, Madison
Lyon Light Guards,
12th Regt. Wis. Volunteers.

It is with a sad heart I bid you farewell, amidst the cannon's roar but I
know I am in a holy cause and I have faith that Our Heaven Father will take care of
us all. We may never see you again but however that may be, we will go forward doing
our duty to God and our beloved Country. We think of you often and dear parents
write us soon.
Ever Your affectionate Son

Edwin

November 8th, 1864 - Smyrna, GA

November 8th, 1864 - Smyrna, GA

Camp of the 12th Wis. Vol.

Ever Dear Parents:

I snatch an opportunity this evening to write you, and regret to say you
must not expect another letter from me for a month perhaps two months. I will
explain. Gen. Sherman is about to make a great movement - report says to the
Atlantic coast. I do not pretend to know anything of Sherman’s plans, but I do know
that the preparation making by this army indicate that the most terrible blow to
fall upon the Confederacy is soon to be given. You have no idea of the extent of
it. You can not realize it. Rumors are rife, but we do not know what is to be done
exactly. From what we can gather, we conclude we are going through to Savannah via
Macon. I apprehend it is to be a gigantic race, such as men never heard of. The
entire army expects to go, and if so, there will be no great fighting I hear
Atlanta is to be utterly destroyed. The RR. all taken up, the rails to be taken up
to Chattanooga. The whole of Northern Georgia abandoned. I believe it. Every man
has to take along an extra pair of shoes, and clothing sufficient to last 2 months.
We do not regret the movement at all for can make it with confidence of success,
with confidence that provisions with what the country will furnish will be
plentiful. We are both going to take no more than we actually need. I have sold my
new heavy blankets; shall carry but one light one, besides oil covers, between us:
calculate the country will supply us with blankets at night, if needed. “Hard
boys,” I think I hear you say, Mother, but Mother this rebellion must be put down
and if the people shiver with cold because of us or hunger, I mean the real rebels,
then I shall think they will the sooner repent of their sins; and I am going to hurt
the south as much as I can. Anything and everything, if it will help us and weaken
them, is my motto. I feel desperate, yet calmly confident that this war is about
over; and the nearer the en, and the heavier the blows we are to give them, the more
buoyant my spirits. The happier my feelings, the more thankful my heart that I am
to act a part. I only express the feelings and views of all the soldiers. I have
not time to write a decent letter so great is my hurry. We have had our elections
today. The 12th did nobly, 429 votes for Lincoln and Johnson and but 70 for the
Democratic McC and Co. Most all of the men who went for McClellan and Pendelton are
recruits, or men who do not know enough to poll and intelligent vote. I was Clerk
at our Co. election and know who voted the Democratic ticket and will vouch that
those men actually do not now enough to give an intelligent vote. I never saw one
of them with a newspaper in their hands. One man wanted to vote the Dem ticket but
was so ashamed that he would not vote. Another was much ashamed, but stung with
rage because laughed at by his comrades did not vote for the wonderful little Mac.
There were just 3 men of Co. A. who voted for him. I wish I could paint them as
they looked, and as I contemplate them. Each one put in his contemptible ticket and
sneaked away like a dog with his tail between his legs, not daring to look a man in
the face Co. A polled 51 votes for L and J and 3 for McC. and P. A soldier who
voted for McClellan is looked upon by his comrades as an ignoramus or a coward and
wants to get out of service and so votes for Mac. The army vote - for L and J will
be heavy in this army. The 17th Wis. nearly all Irish will probably go for Mac.
The paymasters are here paying off the troops. We shall receive pay in a
few days. We shall draw 7 months pay and 2 installments of bounty - $204.00 each.
There will then be 2 months pay due us. We shall not be able to get the Henry
rifles in time for our move and shall probably express you about $350.00 in checks.
I have a lot of money to collect for Dale and if the does not write where he is
before we leave here, he wishes me to send it to you for safekeeping till he calls
for it. $100.00 or more. I have sold a lot of things for him today.
Smyrna, our camp, is on the R.R. 4 miles south of Marietta. We arrived
here at Cedartown and Dallas 3 days ago. We both returned yesterday from a two days
foraging trip to Suplhur Springs 12 miles south west of here. We came back well
supplied with corn and C. We brought in some fresh pork, mutton and a goose and are
now living high. We have baked goose seasoned with sage, and C for breakfast
tomorrow morning. Won’t you have some?
John Crippen arrived yesterday morning and brought us some nice dried fruit
from you. Dale left us a lb. of currants so we are supplied.
We see Edwin Pratt every few days; he is in excellent health and spirits
and says he is going to Savannah, so Eunice must not expect to hear from him till
after he gets there.
I suppose Jacke is home. Give him my compliments and good wishes. I want
to write to you all, but do not see how I can now. I will write when I can. She'll
make a journal of the trip and if I get through safely will give you all the history.
It is now late and reluctantly I close. I know not what instructions to
give you about writing us, other than that you direct 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 18
A. C. Hope you will all write often for the letters will reach us sometime.
My letter is an ill looking thing and hope you will pardon such work. We
are both in splendid health and in good spirits as you see. We may have a chance to
write again before leaving.
Yours affectionately,

E. D. Levings

October 31st, 1864 - Cave Springs, Ala

October 31st, 1864 - Cave Springs, Ala

Ever Dear Parents:

At last I can write to you, and as usual, of our continued welfare; and
this is the best news I have for you. Thanks to the kind Providence that has
guarded our steps. Now my snow-white sheet, companion in my toils for many a weary
mile, be the bearer of glad tidings to far-off friends, and may your journey be as
prosperous, and your welcome as merry, as fortune and friendship can make them.
Yes! to tell you of our health and safety is a pleasure, for your anxiety
to hear from us must be great, and your pleasure will be enhanced when I come to
relate where we have been and what we have seen and done.
But before proceeding to my narration I will acknowledge the receipt by
yesterday’s mail - the first since our arrival hear - of 4 letters from you
postmarked respectively Nov. 1, 7, 11, 21st and I need not tell you we were most
happy to peruse them.
As you are aware, we have made something of a march, - 300 miles - and made
a big hole in the confederacy. Will not the North rejoice when it realizes the
effect of this great movement? It can not do it now, for no more terrible blow has
been dealt the South than that that has just been given it in Ga.
I have not time to make any thing but a simple statement or outline of the
trip, but will ere long give you a minute sketch of what I saw, and of what was
done. Now get a good war map if you can and follow me - We left the Gale City in
flames on the 15 ult and arrived before Savannah on the 10th all right. The army -
4 corps, 15th, 15th, 17th and 20th - marched in two columns. The 17th struck the
R.R. at Gordon, between Macon and Milledgevilles and 170 miles from Savannah. The
towns we passed through after leaving Atlanta are McDonough, Jackson, Monticello,
Willsboro, Gordon, McIntyre, Toomsboro, Oconee, Tenille, Burton, Werndon, in fact
nearly all the Stations on the R.R. between Gordon and Savannah. The 17th Corp had
the R.R. all the way and did most of the work of destruction on it. We burned
nearly all the stations and tore up and burned the track all the way to Savannah.
The road can never be rebuilt during the war. The destruction was immense. I have
said nothing of what the other Corps did. The 15th on our right made a feint on
Macon. The 14th and 20th went to Milledgeville, Kilpatrick and Biscan made a feint
movement on Augusta whipping old Wheeler handsomely. We did not have even a
skirmish. We lived off the country almost entirely. We had only 12 days rations
hardtack issued to us while on the way and full rations. We took everything we
could lay our hands upon and I will say never since I have been a soldier did we
fare better, lived like princes in the eating line, flour, meal, rice, fresh pork,
chickens, geese, turkeys, honey, fresh beef, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, turnips,
sugar and molasses being plenty. But we took all and there is not enough left along
the line of our march to save the people from starvation. They must go elsewhere or
suffer with hunger. We crossed the Ocmulgee River on pontoons, the Oconee River 6
miles below the R.R. bridge and the Oguchee River at Burton. Marched from 5 to 20
miles a day - lay over one day. The country all fine though of poor soil, is one of
the most fertile in the South and many a wealthy were paid off at Atlanta and have
got 3 Cs to send you which we will do as soon as an [?compus] office is opening.Dear Father and Mother:

We rec’d this morning your letter of the 16th inst. and I have an
opportunity to answer at once. We have been marching the last two days and today
are lying over in the Cave Spring Valley, about 15 miles west of Rome. We did not
succeed in catching Hood and flogging him as we had hoped. He is out of our way,
probably below Jacksonville, Ala. He miserably failed of his object as you see, and
was well punished where he attacked, namely, at Allatoona and at Tunnel Hills. All
he accomplished was a temporary delay in our R.R. communications and the capture of
a couple thousand prisoners. He lost far more. It was our gain altogether. We
gained Atlanta and have now proved our ability to hold it. We have secured a
permanent fasthold in Georgia. Who says this war is a failure? Did you not fear
for Sherman’s army once in a while? Well, we did not. We knew we could prove
ourselves equal to the emergency, and have we not more than done it? The presence
of Sherman’s army in Ga. is viewed by the Confederacy with better honor for they
know what is coming upon them. The army is strengthening, notwithstanding many are
going out whose term of service has expired. It will be stronger than ever, and I
predict that it will achieve results more glorious than yet achieved. We continue
to receive cheering news from the Shanandoha region. I suppose Hood’s army is
nearly 40,000 including artillery and cavalry. Anybody who will read Jeff’s speech
at Macon and then consider how poorly the later movement turned out will be
convinced that the Southern Confederacy is on “At last legs.” Nothing but defect so
they get and each time the blow is harder. Their armies will finally break up like
the wreck of a vessel.
We left our camp on the North bank of the Chattooga River day before
yesterday crossed the river, crossed the Coosa River also, passing through Cedar
Bluff, marching south. Yesterday we turned towards Rome. We were both detailed to
forage. We got a plenty of flour and sorghum which is excellent; honey, dried beef,
salt, chickens, geese, turkeys, potatoes, etc. This is a splendid foraging country
and we are better off decidedly than in camp. Nobody is sick, and we know all is
going on well. I presume we shall go to Rome, and thence to Atlanta.
We are both learning to write shorthand. Like every science it has to be
learned. It is beautiful as a system, and I have not a doubt we can master it so as
to make it available, make it pay for the pains of learning.
I rec’d this morning from Fowler and Wells some specimens of the Journal to
circulate and sell among the soldiers. And so Pomeroy is drafted. Well, he would
do better in the army than out. I think. Today is master day. We are going to be
paid soon. The weather is beautiful. Enclosed is some Confederate money
confiscated by the C. Congress. It will do for a “five twenty.” Do you know of any
who wish to invest in that stock? My thoughts have dispersed if I had any. I must
stop and recall them, for I have a lot of letters to answer. Suffice it to say,
look out for glorious election returns from the Badger boys for the Union. Write
often.
Yours affectionately.

E.D. Levings
(“A” Co. 12th W. V.)

September 18th, 1864 - Camp near Atlanta, Ga

September 18th, 1864 - Camp near Atlanta, Ga

Dear Parents,

It has been a long time since I have had the pleasure of writing to you,
but I hope that we will have the privilege of writing, to you now, for a while at
least, thought I do not expect that we shall lay here long. I do not propose to
write any news however for Ed has told you everything. It is Sunday and everything
quiet, we are having a nice shower at the present time; it reminds that the rainy
season is upon us again. It will be bad. I think, for this army without tents, and
exposed to all kinds of weather. I see a good many of the boys are coming down with
the ague again, it is a dreadful sickness. Ed told you to send me some alum but I
shall not need it now, for I have some since, he wrote. We rec’d yours of the 29th
ult. last night, it must have been delayed some where, for we have had letters of a
later date. You speak of buying Commodore's team, I think by the description you
gave of them that it would be a good piece of property to own, but I suppose it
would be necessary to dispose of the mare and colt and I do not suppose that it
would be a very easy matter while the fear of the draft prevails. I see that a good
many of the papers anxious to have the draft postponed so that the quotas may be
filled by volunteering. I think that it is the worst thing that can be done, for it
gives those miserable cowards and copperheads, a chance to stay at home, while if
there was a draft they would stand a chance come into the field well as the rest.

19th.

Homer says to me close his letter for him, as he does not feel first rate
this afternoon I will add a word or so.
We expect to be paid this week. Whether we shall receive any installments of
bounty, I can not tell.
You speak of Commodore’s horses, if they suit you and you could do better by
buying them than keeping the mare and cold, then you should make the trade. Were I
you, I would make the trade, if I thought I could better myself by so doing. We can
soon aid you with what money you want for that purpose, or anything else.
Every body in the army now, the Tenn. army, at least, is in confident mood
as to speedy end of the rebellion. All the talk is about the elections and the
military campaigns. Maine and Vermont have given heavy Union Majorities and it is
believed the other states will do likewise. Lincoln and Johnson’s election is
looked upon now with far more confidence than while ago. The hellish designs of the
Peach Democracy and Copperheads are clearly understood. We know what they intend.
The Chicago platform of these men is a very nice thing on the outside. The Union
they mean is the “union as it was,” that is, with Slavery which is to again resume
sway over the nation. McClellan says he will make the constitution and the laws the
rule of his conduct “Get, he know that to outset the limit - of the constitution as
Mr. Lincoln is doing, will crush the rebellion forever. We know this is the only
and right way to do it, but for the sake of policy, the interest of the Democracy,
both North and South, that it may rise into power, he pledges himself to make it
appear that a Union on the basis of dishonorable peace, though they do not say so,
is far better than that the war should go on till the rebels are made to accept our
own terms and the Union is thus preserved. Their platform is only a mask of their
real designs. We are in good peril. We have delayed these letters longer than
intended. Write soon. Yours affectionately,

E. D. and H. M. Levings

September 1st, 1864 - Near Atlanta GA

September 1st, 1864 - Near Atlanta GA

Sept. 10, Could not write till today.

I will say a little more. We have about 540 men present - about 450 doing
duty. The recent battles will not make our permanent loss over 100, so that we have
left about 900 men. Half of them are of no account to us at present and a good many
never were and ever will be. Co. A has lots of well men along the R.R. lines who
won’t come to the front till made to come - perfect sneaks. I hate to say it, but
it is truth, and they are our recruits, with hardly an exception. They are
horrified at the idea of bullets and so make excuses or get detailed where bullets
don’t sing their requiem. Just so in the Co. with - a few never in a fight yet and
never mean to be if they can help it - sick or going to be, can hardly get them on
picket and when there they won’t fire a shot if they can help it. I have a perfect
contempt for such men. Don’t send any more such men down here. I am glad to say
not all our recruits are such cowards. There are some of them as good substantial,
reliable men as carry a musket. But it is a fact that 1 veteran is worth 3. Yes a
dozen such men as I first mentioned, but enough of this. We are both well. Hope
you will write often. Affectionately,

E.D. Levings