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  1863 April 19, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on April 19, 1863, Camp at Franklin, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  "…the Spring weather is so very fine and my duties being somewhat lightened, I am enjoying myself hugely, but pile on all the pleasure that circumstances will permit and soldiering is at best, a lazy life. I am sorry that such a state of things exist in the church. I hearh [sic] it stated in one letter that it was divided into two classes the "Whippleites" and the "Weighlyites". I know not too which you belong but I hope the trouble will soon be settled, there are all sorts of stories out here about the affair. I keep dumb about it and keep out of all discussions." Relates that he was summoned to the Assistant Adjutants General’s office in Nashville to see Captain J. Bates Dickson, who was from Galena. Dickson said Mr. Huntington had asked that James be assigned to his office to be an orderly there. James said he was happy where he was and it paid better so asked not to be moved. He was appreciative of Huntington’s thoughtfulness but believes he did not know he had been promoted. The enemy has been in the neighborhood and in one exchange James Scott of Company F was killed, the first of the regiment to die in battle.

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  1863 January 2, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Camp Baird, Danville, Kentucky, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois, on January 2, 1863.

  The letter reads in part: [page 1] “The mails of late have been very much disturbed and we can not get letters through or receive any. I told you in my last letter that the Reg’mt were on the march for Ten. and that the two companys [sic] then at Harrodsburg would join them at Nashvill [sic], but the next day instead of marching in that direction [page 2] we received orders to march to Danville where the rest of the reg. had been in camp, and on arriving on the ground found that the whole division would return that night they did so after marching twenty three miles in a heavy rain, and that afternoon by sunset were once more all together on there [sic] old camping ground. we were all glad to join the Reg once more, as being on detached duty is not as pleasant as being with the regiment. The Regimental camp ground is the soldiers home and when he is away from it he feels about the same as when away from his own home and friends. How long we will remain here I do not know. we shall probably be paid two months wages tomorrow this will not come amiss I assure you. we should have been paid before but [Confederate General John Hunt] Morgan is reported as being forty miles from here and we have been expecting an attack every day three days ago at one o’clock AM our pickets were eather [sic] scared in or driven in and gave the alarm. we were wake up and ordered to out on our cartridge boxes and be ready for amaments [sic] warning. we did so knowing full well that the moment would not come around untill roll call in the morning until which time we slept as soundly as we ever did. There are here or close at hand [page 3] about thirty thousand troops suported [sic] by twenty four pieces of artilery [sic] twelve within speaking distance of our camp. Scouts are bringing in prisoners every day, troops are constantly coming and going what with drill, reports and rumors of expected battles camp talk, and keeping clear of the guard house or of extra duty, keeps the soldiers mind prety buisy [sic] and when the weathr [sic] is fine time passes away very quick and pleasently [sic], but for all that a little of this soldiering goes a long way, especially when he gets nothing for weeks but hard crackers made out of shorts salt fat pork, coffee thick as mudy [sic] water, and some times very little of that. Christmas and New Year passes of with but very slight change of to wahat [sic] we have any other day. “Home sweet Home”)” Reports he has not received the box with turkey and peaches yet. In answer to Lizzie’s question about the chaplain, says he is young, inexperienced, lazy, and has little to say, and thus many of the soldiers do not know he is there.

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  1863 June 21, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on June 21, 1863, Camp at Triune, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  Notes there was a regimental inspection and review today for which he had to appear in regimental dress which is sword, sash and a gun. He has returned the gun and bought a large army pistol that hangs on the sword belt “so you may be sure we look quite “seschoschea”)” There has been a reorganization of the corps. Though they are now in the reserved army corps, which “means I suppose not to be pushed into the fight first, but are to come in only when needed, we are right smack in front now though….Well have been down to the picture galery [sic] or rether [sic] tent. Robert had a single one taken, and then I perposed [sic] to have a double one taken of him and me, for the special benefit of the house hold which we did, and send with compliments, hoping you will all except [sic] the same, leaving you to judge whether they are good or not, mine which I enclose in this is for you, all say that it is a pretty good picture of me, you will let my friends see it of course. But you may take a little pains to let the little “Miss” over the river see it, but dont tell her I told you to. I should have had a standing up one taken but they cost and are not as good, then if you think the one with Robert is enough for you, you can let sister Mary or some one else have it. I am so glad I have yours. I take delight in looking at it."

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  1863 March 31, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on March 31, 1863, Camp near Brentwood, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  Reports on the activities of the last eight days in which the 96^th and 92^nd regiments have been preparing for battle with the enemy but nothing has happened since the battle at Franklin. They have been kept busy building barricades but he says this is useless because “the first storm that comes we get up and go. I expect we shall be gobbled up one of these bright mornings notwithstanding we are up every day at four, remaining ready until daylight…I am very sorry indeed to hear of the trouble at the parsonage, though I must say I am not much surprised yet I did not think it would come on so sudden. I had scarcely read your letters when, one of the boys in the tent read aloud a letter which had just came telling all about the affair, but I cannot believe it is as bad as represented, tell me in your next all about it, it must make the Weigley family feel very unhappy. I think it rather late for such snow storms and it speaks for a late spring, the weather here at preasent [sic] is cold and windy but the country looks beautiful, the fields of grain are all up and the woods are looking thick with young leaves…"

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  1863 May 11, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on May 11, 1863, at Camp at Franklin, Tennessee, tohis sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  "The past week has been one of the dullest that we have seen in this part of the country for a long time, no moves has been made, no skirmishes, no scares, nothing but the regular routine of fatigue, picket, and camp duty, so the men has had a good chance to wash up old duds and drowned some fam of those little industrious critters." He then goes on to describe the pest in great detail. Had another inspection and review today which was “rather warm work standing out in the sun so long. These Reviews are more bother than they are worth”.

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  1863 November 9, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Nickojack Cove, Georgia, on November 9, 1863, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  Transcription:

  [page 1] [first 4 lines at top of the page are inverted] “Direct

  2d Brigade 3d Division 4 A.C.

  Bridgeport

  Tenn.

  No.41.

  Nickojack Cove Georgia Monday November 9^th 1863.

  My Dear Sister:

  I wrote two sheets yesterday and with a lead pencil, but having a chance to use a pen and ink this morning (but they are vey poor) I have concluded to copy it off on this sheet. I dont like to send way letters written with a lead pencil.

  You will no doubt wonder what is up that I have delayed writing so long. I have no long apology to make for circumstances have been such that I have not had a chance of writing before, but a streak of luck has at last favored me with the opportunity and I will improve it.

  You will see by the heading that we have again cha[n]ged quarters. When I last wrote you I said that every thing was on the stand still but the [sic] soon took a change for Hooker with two Corps of his Potomac boys were slowly making their way up the valley and driving the rebs on top of Lookout Mountain and inside of their breastworks only a small piece of ground was then left to be cleared but it was a strong position, but it must be cleared in order to have full possession of the road on that side of the river (south side) as well as [page 2] having communication between his (hooker) and the forces on this side of the river so it was planed [sic] that they should make an attack on the rebel works at night and at the same time a sufficient number of pontoons should be floated down past Lookout and a bridge stretched across the river, every thing ready the work was commenced and proved an entire success, and before the rebs knew what was up we had full possession of all. Hooker had a hard fight and lost many men but carried the point. Next day our Brigade was ordered to reinforce Hooker and was sent to the extreme right where the rebs were trying to flank our forces, but were checked. The enemy then opened out from the top of Lookout with heavy guns and rained in shot and shell thick and fast, but only five in the brigade were hurst, two of the 96[th] were wounded, by three P.M. things quieted down and our Brigade was ordered back to camp for as the road was once again ours and nothing left to do but hold it they were not needed. While the Brigade were out I was to the regiment with rations and passing through all the forces I had a good look at the Potomac “Boys”, they look well and are much better dressed than our western troops, they thought it very hard to live on hard Bread and salt pork, and missed the cheese and butter (furnished by their state) which they said they had had twice a week, in fact they have only been playing soldier as we did in Camp Washurne [Washburn], they will now find it a little different. I also saw Genls Hooker & Carl Shurtze [Schurz] [page 3] have not yet seen Grant or Rawlins.

  About two weeks ago we were transferred into another corps, in fact I think all the old reserve corps is done away with. Gen Gordon Granger has been assigned the command of the fourth army corps four Regiments of our old Brigade and four of some other were consolidated into one Brigade under command of Brigadier Gen Whitaker and attached to Gen Palmer Division, so we are now the 2d Brigade 3d Division 4^th Army Corps, our Brigade contains 8 regiments viz 40^th Ohio 84^th Indiana 115 & 96^th Ill. (the old Brig) the 51^st Ohio 35^th Ind. 99^th Ills and 8^th Kentucky. But the number of men is not greater than when we were at Franklin.

  A week ago yesterday our Brigade packed up and left for this place where we arrived on Monday afternoon it is on the main road between Chattanooga and Bridgeport 7 miles from the latter place, the point we hold is comonly [sic] known as “Shell Mound” but the 96^th Ill and 40 Ohio are detached and we are two miles off in a deep revine [sic] or rather a pass through the mountains. The place goes by the name of “Nickojack Cove” we are and no mistake in the wilderness, wheather [sic] we will remain here long I cannot tell some think we will go back to our old posts and other that we will go to Chattanooga when Sherman comes up.

  But I must answer some of the questions you ask in your last letters. I have recd all your letters sake [sic] and good and last night No 39 came. Sergt Major Quinn has so far recovered that he joined the regt a few days before we left he then went to the Brigade Hospital, he looks well and is doing well. Company C. & H. are still prisoners. A [page 4] short note was recd from Capt Rowan Dated at “Libby Prison” Richmond hes [sic] says several of the 96 are there Lieut Earl of Co. C. is there and all well, you may be sure we were glad to hear this as we thought he was killed – You ask if Laura Hill writes me I have recd two letters from her so far and another is due this long time. I think there must be some reason for you asking, is there not please tell me in your next. That piece of Poetry is very fine, you ask for it, I will make a copy of it if you say so, but would prefer keeping the original. My health is very good and I can out weigh you by a pound and a half (bully for me). I have found out for a certainty that my knapsack was burnt and all in it Beans was with it. George Jeffers (the Q.M. son) takes Beans place Louis Pringle Scheaffers as orderly J.C. Smith will be Lieut Col and Capt Hicks Major Now for 39, its contents are more striking than any one before. As you suppose I am very much surprised. Oh Lizzie can it be true, must I give you up to the care and protection of other hands? it is hard but I trust for the best. if the Mr. L. [D.H. Lamberson] mentioned is the one I think (and I can trace it to no other recourse) I must confess I have a few scruples, and might submit a few questions for your consideration, but will for bare, and if you feel that in him you can place all reliance, that he will ever hold the relationship sacred and that as a life companion he will ever be to you true, in short he will be the one to make your future easy and agreeable, affording a respectability you deserve, and above all is worthy of your best affection hand and heart, so trusting that you fully realize what you are about to do, and given subject a clear searching and hoping all will be well, I give you as you ask my hearty approval, and may God bless you. Oh Sister me feeling almost over possessive where I with you I could tell you my heart but I cannot do it on paper. I will not deny Sister that I have long expected such a change and would be for the best as you have seen enough of the hardships of this life and alone too. But I did not deem it prudent to interfere by one word as I well know your good judgement and I hope I have not said too much this time, and as you have my views I leave it entirely with you, and you have a brothers best wishes.

  What ever of my funds on hand you may want you are most welcome to use, and please find a enclosed and hand to Mr Huntington an order to that effect, now dont stint yourself. About obtaining a furlough I hardly think that can be brought about, so you can act your pleasure about bringing the matters to a close. As I had your photograph burnt, I should like one more if you have it on hand while you are my Lizzie please forward.

  If you are not too bussy [sic] I should like to have you do a small job for me. If Lieut Vincent has not left for the regt and there is time and he will do me the favor, I should like to have a few articles sent down. 1^st. get Gilston to make me a pair of boots same size as the last, only a little taller in the leg, and stiff around the ancle [sic] so they will stand and send an extra pair of soles so I can have them put on when needed. Then ask Mrs Huntington if I have a hat at their house if so send it also, two pair of socks and a necktie there is a small satchel they can be put in and tell the Lieut he may use what room there is left for himself. Mrs Huntington will give you my satchel it will do for a knapsack, if there is no hat at H. house you may get one of Mr Embelen, black and stout size 6¼ and get also from him a pair of buckskin gloves lined you may settle for all and collect of Huntington if you cannot do this please let me know immediately.

  Now write soon and tell me all give my regards to Mr L and all who may inquire for me and wishing you god spede [sic] I will bid you good by as ever your Brother Edward

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  1863 September 24, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written on September 24, 1863, by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, in camp opposite Chattanooga, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  Transcription:

  [page 1] “Camp opposite Chattanooga

  Sept 24^th 1863

  My Dear Sister,

  I drop you a few lines on my first chance since the last, our Brigade (and in fact all), has been on the go so much lately that writing has been out of the question. Since I last wrote you there has been one continual fight progressing there has not been an hour but the cannon has been booming. The fight commenced on the center and extreme left and as our corps held that our Brigade was in. On Friday the 18^th we marched our from camp three miles and formed line of battle, the 96 were deployed [page 2] as skirmishers, and soon found they were in close quarters. The enemy were concealed in the brush and poured in volly [sic] after volly [sic] on us, but we succeeded in dislodging them and they retired about a mile and as it was quite dark nothing more was done. The next morning our Brigade took another position 1½ miles to the rear there was one killed and four wounded in the 96^th on Saturday the rest of the Brigade were thrown out and kept up a heavy skirmishing all day, and were forced back in the afternoon, we were reinforced and held the enemy in check. Sunday we expected to have a heavy fight here but the rebs had moved to the center so about ten oclock our Brigade and the second were ordered to move to the center to reinforce Gen’s Thomas & [page 3] McCook near “Dug out Gap”. As I had to see to the getting up rations to the Regiment I did not go on the [a]dvance this day with them but came up in the afternoon with the ambulance train. When our boys arrived on the field, they went in to a heavy engagement and were badly cut up the enemys batteries done sod [sic] havoc in our ranks, one Brigade in particular suffered hards as the charged on a battery three times but were driven back each time. The 96^th lost heavly [sic]. Oh Sister I am sorry to tell the sad tale of some of our boys. My dear friend Beau was killed on the last charge orderly Scheaffer of co A was killed and three or four more of that comp. Oour [sic] Lieut Col. was wounded and has since died as near as I can learn 120 wounded and 48 killed, only 230 working men remain. Capt Hicks commanded the reg. through part of the engagement. Lieut [page 4] Vincent was wounded just below the knee. Pool is all right. As the enemy followed our forces (having fallen back a mile) we were unable to get all of our wounded and dead I was on the field until dark gathering them up but could not find Beaus body I was in hopes to get it next day by a flag of truce but none went out. George Jeffers is writing Mrs Beau the particulars now poor folks they will take it hard, he was a brave fellow and fought to the last. Oour [sic] forces have fallen back to Chattanooga, cannonading going on all day, the baggage trains are all across the river, and it is hard to tell which way the tide is running but we hope for the best it seems that the whole rebel army is concentrated at this point. I re’d your letter of the 7^th I will try to write again in a few days am quite well but tired we are on half rations and everything is in confusion, hope to be straightened out in a day or two, you may direct as formaly [sic], for the present good bye with much love

  Edward

  [inverted across top of pages 2 and 3] excuse the pencil tell me when you write whether you ____ [unreadable word] recd it”

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  1863 September 30, J. Edward James to Lizzie James

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on September 30, 1863, at Chattanooga, Tennessee, to his sister, Lizzie James, Galena, Illinois.

  Transcription:

  [page 1] “Chattanooga, Tenn

  Sept 30^th 1863.

  Dear Sister:

  Another opportunity arriving I will send a few more lines, though in a hurry. I am near the same place as when I last wrote you that is on the northern side of the Tennessee River opposite Chatanooga [sic], am still with the teams and baggage. The Regiment or what is left (which is not much, as Cos C. and H were captured a few evens ago while on picket) ar[e] guarding the river three miles below here opposite Lookout Mountain, the rebs are on one side of the river and our boys on the other eather [sic] party that shows himself clear of [page 2] a tree is reminded of his situation by a minie eather [sic] hiting [sic] him or a tree close at hand, quite a conversation is kept up in this way day and night. I go down every other day with rations, we have been on half rations since the fight we hope to do better before long. But I am wanted to go out to the regiment with a days rations of whiskey so must close for this morning.

  2 oclock p.m. back again, issued my whiskey, saw all the boys of Co. A. Robert says his health was never better in his life and would write if he had paper and ink or could get them. Christopher Bey [Berg?] wants to let his folks know he is all right. There were nine wounded and including Beau four killed of the com. Lieut Vincent was sent to [page 3] Bridgeport, we have not been able to gather up our killed yet, a flag of truce with an ambulance train started out but were fired on by the rebs. I feel bad at not being able to get Beaus and Scheaffers remains. I suppose before this you have seen detailed accounts of the fight. I should like to write an account of it to you but have not the time.

  Our Brigade scarcely numbers what one of the regiments did before the fight. Lieut Pe Roan [?] was the only one of Whittakers staff that did not get wounded or killed the Gen got a few scratches. The enemy and our forces remain in the same position as the[y] did a week ago, firing is heard every day but what the results are I dont know, in fact I guess you are better posted then [sic] we are for we get no papers at all. [page 4] Captain Green that formaly [sic] belonged to our Reg. arrived here this morning on a visit, he look well I think a little soldiering would not hurt him. I almost forgot to tell you that Cap Chas Rowen was eather [sic] captured or killed on Saturday in the skirmish he was sent out with orders and never came back and we have not heard from him since.

  I understand that a camp as to be selected this afternoon and I am in hopes we will once more get to gather and settled in camp, before long, you must excuse such a poor letter, our desk, paper pens and all were left to Bridgeport they will be up before long I cant buy any now I paid 10 cents for three sheets of paper and three envelopes. The weather has been very fine so far but today it is quite cool, and look like rain we expect the rainy season will soon set in. Yours of the 7^th is the last I have recd, write as soon as you can. I am quite well and hoping you are I will bid you goodbye Edward”

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  1864 August 22, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on August 22, 1864, camped in front of Atlanta, Georgia, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  "…we are no nearer Atlanta then when I last wrote you though we have changed our position a little having moved more to the left, and as the ground between us and the City is open, we have a clear and commanding view of the place, and every shell that explodes in or over the City we can see, but being an old story we take no notice of them. From the top of a high tree in camp a most splendid view of the town, the rebel and our works and the country for many miles around can be had, but the pleasantness of the sight is somewhat diminished by the sight of the angrey [sic] and heavy lines of works which plainly tell us that ere they are in other these tra[i]torous hands many a noble hero must fall, yet we hope that Sherman will plan some [page 2] other method of capturing them then storming, and we expect it every day. Since I last wrote you this army has been almost quiet only making a demonstration here and there occasionally simply to keep the rebs posted as to our whereabouts and that we are alive and well, and once in a while coaxing them over to see us, and then “dishing them up” retaining a few of their number, by way of compliment and with a spanking send the rest home to old mother Hood, though it is not always that we come out of the “Muss” with “unbroken shins”, as the regiment in advance most allways loose [sic] some of its member, a few days ago (the 18) our skirmishers was ordered to advance their posts and the 96 Ill. and 45 Ohio ordered in support, the 96 occupying the right and most exposed position, and were discovered by the enemy and a sharp skirmish ensued, the 96 loosing [sic] eight wounded and two killed. – William Lewis of Co. “A” being one of the killed, the wounds were slight. Frank A. Weir (an acquaintance of Harvey[)] Ordering Sergeant Co “A” recd a slight wound on the right arm just below the elbow, but nothing to hurt much.” Notes that changes of regiments in the brigade have occurred in the last week. “So you think I'd laugh if I could see you and Harvey [page 4] well I took a good one any how. I just imagined and laughed the harder, and I assure you Lizzie nothing pleases me better or does me more good then to have such good accounts of your happiness and hope it may be lasting, dont mind outsiders but take all the comfort you can, and regardless of the past I have no doubt but what Harvey will ever be a true husband to you. I hope if ever any thing should come to mar your happyness you will not fail to let me know, as you will ever share my sympathy. I have often thought of writing Harvey and did intend to, perhaps he has wondered why I havent, but what I write to you I know he hears, and that is all that is needed. I give you both my best wishes of welfare. I wish he could get a business started among the soldiers (I mean a field gallery) there is a fine chance of making money."

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  1864 December 2, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written on December 2, 1864, by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Nashville, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  Records that at Pulaski the weather was bad with rain and snow, but they constructed a camp until ordered to leave on November 23 and marched to Columbia to head off the enemy under Hood. There was skirmishing and the enemy charged their works several times. On November 29, the army fell back across the Duck River but the fighting continued and, with the enemy cavalry crossing the river, the army retreated to Spring Hill and then to Franklin. Recounts the fight there and that the enemy charged seventeen times, but the army did not yield. Then pulled back to Nashville where he is glad to rest. While it might be seen as a retreat, he defends the generals’ decisions to stand and fight at advantageous positions, drawing the enemy in, and then moving on. He notes that the Confederate forces lost about ten thousand soldiers, killed, wounded and captured at Franklin while their losses were about eight hundred. He is confident their forces can hold Nashville since they comprise 80-90,000 men. "The day before we left Pulaski I rec'd your letter with handkerchief and Picture, all good. Many thanks Dear Lizzie and such good news too. I must say "Bully for you" if Master Edward dont make stiring and noisy times at "our house" he will not be doing as his Uncle did in his younger days. May he live to a grey old age and may his mother live to see his good works. I could not imagine why a certain young man called me Uncle Ed for a day or two previous to the arrival of your letter, but I all of a sudden "smelt amiss". Be sure and send me a "Facsimile" of mister man as soon as possible, give him a smothering kiss for me."

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  1864 June 22, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on June 22, 1864, at Big Shanty, Georgia, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  "The enemy after fighting hard fell back from “Lost Mt.” (where they [page 2] where [sic] when I last wrote.) and are now at the base of Kinasaw [Kennesaw] Mt. and for the last three days there have been hard fighting, and some little advantage has been gained over the enemy.

  I was out to the regiment last Monday with supplies, and while I was there the brigade was under orders for fight. The 96 was on the front line, and while I was getting my papers signed, two men were wounded not six feet from me. I got back to the train all streight [sic] though. The brigade was then in line at the base of a small hill, the enemy being on top. We got orders not to issue the Provisions until dark as at 4 there was a charge to be made with a view to take this hill, at 3 oclock 36 pieces of Artillery took a position and opened out on the main ridge, by way of feint [page 3] while our boys and another battery worked at the hill, and the charge was made and the point gained. Imagine if you can the noise of 48 cannon and a brigade of musketry the ground fairly trembled, but it only lasted for a half hour when all was partially quiet, but not long, for the enemy gathered and tried to retake their lost ground, when of a sudden all again was noise then thunder, on account of one regt (35 Ind) giving away exposed the rest of the brigade to a cross fire from the enemy, and sad work was done, but our boys held their ground and the enemy fell back, but soon came up again and for four time the[y] were repulsed so they quit. Our brigade lost quite heavy, the 96 severe but not so heavy as some of the other regts. I am sorry to say that Col. Champion was struck by a buck shot under the [page 4] left eye, the shot coming out through the temple it is thought he will loose [sic] his eye. Lieut Col Smith shot through the left bre[a]st under the sho[u]lder but only a flesh wound Capt. James (of Lake County) about the same place. Capt. Gilmore (Lake) through the top of the head, and thigh, not expected [to] live. Several men killed through the regt. but not accaqinsinces [acquaintances] of our, in the whole 38 killed, wounded and missing. Co. A. all right. Major Hicks was in the hospital sick at the time but took his place next day. Our brigade has not been engaged since but still on the front line. Hooker is engaging the enemy today on our right it is thought trying to flank the enemy and if successful, will end opperations [sic] at this point and we shall push on again for Atlanta."

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  1864 March 11, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Cleveland, Tennessee, on March 11, 1864, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  He writes that the regiment has moved from Blue Springs to a camp on a hill three-quarters of a mile from Cleveland. The position is guarded by rifle pits and two field pieces, and a star-shaped fortification is under construction. He is unsure how long they will remain and there are rumors of being posted to Nashville to do garrison and provo duty. Notes that on February 22 he was with a six-mule team with provisions headed for Dalton and got stuck in deep mud in the woods. This proved fortuitous as a mounted squad of Confederate soldiers completely missed them because they went around the mud. “…you came very near having the pleasure of directing your epistles to your little brother to Libby [Prison], Richmond, Southern Confederacy etc…”

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  1864 September 10, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on September 10, 1864, camped near Atlanta, Georgia, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  Gives an account of the activity since August 25 that led to the capture of Atlanta. Six corps moved around the city and his corps was amongst those that tore up the Mobile to Montgomery railroad. Then marched towards Macon and destroyed more of the railroad. This destruction continued towards Jonesboro, heating the rails to bend them double, twisting them around trees or laying them out in the shape of U.S. Fighting ensued near Jonesboro but the enemy was overcome and 18 pieces of artillery were captured along with some 2000 prisoners. With the defeat of the rebel force guarding Atlanta, the army occupied Jonesboro and then learned Atlanta had fallen. The regiment then marched into Atlanta and returned to their former position. Noted that when the corps left their position on the 25^th, the rebel army and Atlanta residents assumed the Union forces had gone and celebrated, prematurely. “I have been so busy since coming into Camp that I have not had time to go to the city but from what I saw of the place while marching through, I should think it had been a nice place, it is in great disorder now and pretty well deserted of citizens….It is comical to see the protections the citizens had built in their yards to shield them from our shot and shell. Every yard had a regular root houses built, or as we call them “gofur holes” (go for holes).” The 96 Regiment lost 3 killed and 3 wounded. Andrew Disch of Co. A was killed, the only one from the company that was hurt. He expects to stay in camp for a month or more before moving on to Macon.

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  1865 June 3, Correspondence from J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  1865 June 3, Correspondence from J. Edward James, Camp Harker, Nashville, Tennessee, to Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  Excerpt: "Well Lizzie I suppose you are looking every day to see us roll in to town. Well we are looking just as much but we aren't commenced to roll yet though there is every reason to believe that we will before long. Our "Muster out rolls" were sent around last evening. It will take only a few days to make them out and we shall then make for Illinois where we will remain to settle up (perhaps 10 or 14 days) so that by the time we are fairly out of this scruple and snugly at home June will well nigh be gone. As we are from the northern part of Illinois we will no doubt go to the northern rendezvous at Chicago and if we remain there long you will have a good chance of seeing the "Glorious 90". It is proposed by the officers that if we do stop at Chicago the regt. is to make Lake Co. a visit en masse. But we can't see it and I think that when we get so near free as that we will let the officers go where they please and the men do likewise unless I can't help myself. I shall be for making a straight bee line for west Galena up a few flight of stairs on a hill. One thing certain these officers won't find it an easy job to run us around much."

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  1865 June 9, Correspondence from J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  1865 June 9, Correspondence from J. Edward James, Camp Harker, Nashville, Tennessee, to Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  Excerpt: "We have been awfully pressed in business for the last six or eight days making up our 'muster out rolls' a very particular and large job. We are through now and the rolls have been examined by the Mustering Officer and accepted and "High Hip Hurrah" we are mustered out. Or as much so as can be here. Though the rolls and papers are not to be delivered to us until final muster out and pay. Which will come off at Chicago some time next week. We will leave for 'Gods country' Sunday afternoon. Pretty certain and if we are not delayed will be in Chicago Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. It is thought we will remain there only three or four days. I hope no longer. One thing certain it ain't as easy a job to get out of this soldiering as it was getting in to it. But we can see a hole through the wall and are rejoicing at the prospect of a better pasture. We calculate to be home by the 4th July to throw ourselves away so if you know of any gal that ain't spoken for or one that 'won't be in use' for that day please recommend this ex soldier. Tell her for me I will hire a coach and four more if she needs them. And have a 'splendid splay' of fine works and ice cream after candle lighting. They say in the papers that a fellow can get married for nothing at the fair in Chicago by applying to the lady who is boss of the New England Kitchen and farm house. I don't know what sort of a lady she is but I believe it is a good bargain and as I have refused lots of plantations(?) down here I will take it up ha! ha! 'How are you marry'".

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  1865 March 17, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on March 17, 1865, at Strawberry Plains, northeast of Knoxville, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  Has left Huntsville and traveled by box car to this camp 16 miles from Knoxville. The corps will be guarding the railroad while it is being repaired. He does not know what they will do next but speculates it could be a move to Bulls Gap to block General Lee from invading Kentucky or Tennessee, or to join Sheridan’s army at Lynchburg. "Capt. Vincent arrived at the regt the day before we left Huntsville was sorry that he did not have the stamps for me he said he was so busy while at home that he did not call on any body. I dont think he troubled himself much as he did not bring much for the boys. Both him and John are getting below par with the company. I am not much sorry that I am out, I have got nearly over my Ague [malaria] spell again and will soon be all right. Whiskey and Quinine knocked it pretty well. There is one thing that I am afraid I shall have to do that you wont like any more then I do and that is chewing tobacco, dont scold I think I will be able to quit when I get home."

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  1865 May 25, J. Edward James to Lizzie James Lamberson

  1865 May 25, Letter written by J. Edward James, 96th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on May 25, 1865, at Camp Harker, Nashville, Tennessee, to his sister Lizzie James Lamberson, Galena, Illinois.

  In reply to Lizzie’s “business kind” letter of May 16, he states that he wants to make money, or at least enough to feed and clothe himself. Notes he has received a letter from Mr. Huntington advising him of a possible business opportunity but, since he did not know what it was and he was considering Lizzie’s offer, he has not replied. “[page 2] now in regards to what you speak of – I rather like the plan and [page 3] if I understand it rightly I think the plan as stated by you would work well, and I think were I at home I should take the offer, though as I cannot here judge just what is for the best I can hardly give a decisive answer. You say 'the only question is whether or no I would fancy the [photography] busness [sic]', this is only a small question with me, - yes I think I should, and as it puts a fellow a little on his ingenuity I would like it all the better for that, and with Harvey I think I could soon learn enough to help. - If Harvey thinks he would like to take me in with him, and has not made any other agreement and if he could delay matters until I get home (which I think will not be long) I think I shall be ready to take the offer. I shall have when paid up between five or six hundred dollars, and I would prefer letting it or investing with him than any one else I know of. - There is one point in your letter that I cannot by the words decide as to what is meant. - am I to understand that I am to rent the Gallery in Galena - or am I to be the partner spoken of, and go with Harvey while a third person take the Galena Gallery on shares? Perhaps if Harvey would write me a few line [sic] on the matter I could tell better [page 4] what to do. At all events before any other person is taken in. I would like to understand matters fully, that I can come to a conclusion, as I said before I rather like it and as in taking it up I shall remain more at home (by being with you). I would prefer it rather than going in to anything with strangers, at least better then Mr H. offer."