At the end of each of the first four years of the Civil War, from 1861 through 1864, The New York Times amassed and published a dense and thorough “chronology” of important military and political events of the preceding twelve months. This long and exhaustive annual summary provided not only a kind of index to the coverage the paper had provided all year long, but a historically important review of the progress of the war itself. The following pages contain a long-needed reprint of those original summaries. The 1865 chronology, which the paper did not publish even though the war continued through the spring of that final year of fighting, has been provided, with an attempt at recreating the original New York Times style, by the editors.
1861
HISTORY OF THE REBELLION. CHRONOLOGICAL RECORD OF THE LEADING INCIDENTS OF THE WAR.
DECEMBER 31, 1861
At this season — the close of the year — a resume of the principal events that have occurred during the past twelve months will be read with interest. No one can say that the record is dull or uninstructive. For the convenience of the reader we have prepared two chronological tables — one giving the history of the rebellion, and of the operations, on land, the other detailing more particularly the operations at sea. Both are convenient for future reference, and give, almost at a glance, a correct and concise account of the rise and progress of this great Southern rebellion — of the efforts that have been made to suppress it — and of the naval and military engagements that the war has engendered.
CHRONOLOGY OF THE WAR
DECEMBER 1860.
December 20.
• Secession of South Carolina.
December 24.
• Withdrawal of the South Carolina delegation from Congress.
December 26.
• Evacuation of Fort Moultrie by Major ANDERSON.
December 27
• The Palmetto flag raised in Charleston.
• Forts Pinckney and Moultrie occupied by State troops.
December 29.
• Mr. FLOYD tenders his resignation as Secretary of War.
• President BUCHANAN accepts it.
December 30.
• Arsenals in South Carolina seized by State troops.
December 31.
• Exciting session of the Senate.
• Mr. BENJAMIN, of Louisiana, delivers a violent secession speech. 1861.
JANUARY 1861.
January 1.
• First symptoms of life in the Buchanan Administration.
• The frigate Brooklyn and another war-vessel ordered to Charleston.
January 2.
• Fort Pulaski, at Savannah, taken by order of the Governor of Georgia.
January 3.
• The President, having sent back the last communication of the South Carolina Commissioners unopened, they return to Charleston.
January 4.
• National Fast.
• The United States arsenal at Mobile taken by the local troops.
January 5.
• South Carolina Convention adjourned.
• The Star of the West leaves New-York with reinforcements for Fort Sumter.
January 6.
• Gov. HICKS refuses to convene the Maryland Legislature.
January 7
• TOOMBS delivers a violent secession speech in the Senate.
• Maj. ANDERSON’s course in evacuating Fort Moultrie sustained by the House of Representatives.
January 8.
• Resignation of Secretary THOMPSON.
• North Carolina forts seized by the State Government.
January 9.
• The Star of the West, endeavoring to enter Charleston Harbor, was fired upon from Morris Island and Fort Moultrie, and compelled to return.
• The President sends a special message to Congress.
January 10.
• Arsenals and forts of Louisiana seized by the State Government.
• Secession of Mississippi.
• Secession of Florida.
January 11.
• Secession of Alabama.
• Resignation of Secretary THOMAS.
• Appointment of Gen. DIX as Secretary of the Treasury.
January 12.
• Mr. SEWARD speaks in the Senate on the National troubles.
January 13.
• Pensacola Navy-yard seized by Secessionists.
January 15.
• Secession Meeting in New-York.
January 17
• Mr. HOLT nominated Secretary of War.
January 18.
• Close of the Debate on the Crisis in the House of Representatives.
January 19.
• Secession of Georgia.
January 21.
• Withdrawal of the Alabama, Mississippi and Florida Delegations from Washington.
January 22.
• Arms destined for Alabama seized in New-York.
January 23.
• Second seizure of arms in New-York.
January 25.
• Ex-Secretary FLOYD presented by the Grand Jury for malfeasance in office.
• Secession of Louisiana.
January 28.
• Withdrawal of the Georgia Delegation from Congress.
• The Legislature of South Carolina resolve to demand the surrender of Sumter.
January 29.
• President Buchanan again evinces an unsteadiness of purpose, and an indisposition to deal vigorously with the rebellion.
FEBRUARY.
February 1.
• Warlike preparations at Charleston.
• Secession of Texas.
February 2.
• The cutter Lewis Cass surrendered to the State of Alabama.
February 4.
• Assembling of the Peace Convention at Washington.
• Organization of the Southern Convention at Montgomery.
February 5.
• Withdrawal of the Louisiana Delegation from Congress.
February 6.
• Important speech in the Senate of Senator JOHNSON, of Tennessee.
February 8.
• The Montgomery Convention adopt the Constitution of the United States for the Provisional Government of the “Confederate States of America.”
February 9.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS, of Mississippi, elected President, and A.H. STEPHENS, of Georgia, Vice-President of the Southern Confederacy, by a unanimous vote.
• Arkansas arsenals seized by the State Government.
February 11.
• Mr. LINCOLN, President elect, leaves Springfield, Ill., and commences his journey to Washington.
February 12.
• The Confederate States Government takes charge of all questions pending between the Southern States and the United States Government.
February 17
• First speech of JEFFERSON DAVIS after his election.
February 18.
• Inauguration of the President of the Confederate States at Montgomery
• Defeat of secession in Missouri.
February 19.
• The President elect in New-York.
February 21.
• The President elect in Philadelphia.
• He learns of a plot to take his life.
February 23.
• The President elect passes through Baltimore secretly, and arrives in Washington.
February 25.
• Information received of the treason of Gen. TWIGGS in Texas, of the surrender of forts in Texas to the State Government, and also of a large body of United States troops.
• The Peace Conference agree upon FRANKLIN’s Territorial Proposition for a division of the Territory on the line of 36° 30’.
February 28.
• President DAVIS vetoes the bill legalizing the African Slave-trade.
MARCH.
March 2.
• Revenue cutter Dodge seized by the Texan authorities.
March 4.
• Inauguration of President LINCOLN.
March 16.
• Adjournment of the Southern Congress.
March 18.
• Important Diplomatic appointments by President LINCOLN.
March 20.
• Secession of Arkansas.
March 21.
• A vessel with supplies for the United States fleet seized by rebels off Pensacola.
APRIL.
April 3.
• Great preparations commenced in the Northern Navy Yards.
April 4.
• Excitement at Charleston.
April 5.
• Preparations of BEAUREGARD to bombard Sumter.
April 9.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS makes a requisition for troops.
April 11.
• Demand made by BEAUREGARD for the unconditional surrender of Fort Sumter.
April 12.
• The Charleston batteries open on Sumter.
April 13.
• Surrender of Sumter.
April 15.
• The President issues his Proclamation for 75,000 volunteers.
• Tremendous excitement in the North.
April 16.
• The Confederate Government call for 32,000 more troops.
• Fort Pickens reinforced by Col. BROWN’s command.
April 17
• Gov. LETCHER, of Virginia, issues a Proclamation hostile to the National Government.
April 18.
• Arrival in New-York of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment en route to Washington.
• Fears begin to prevail for the safety of the capital.
April 19.
• The Massachusetts Sixth Regiment attacked in Baltimore by a mob and several of its members killed.
• The Seventh New-York Regiment leave for Washington.
April 20.
• Immense Union demonstration in New-York.
• Burning of the Gosport Navy-yard, including three ships of the line, three frigates, two sloops and a brig, mounting over 400 guns.
April 25.
• Virginia joins the Confederate States.
April 27
• Twenty-one thousand National troops in Washington.
MAY.
May 3.
• President issues a proclamation calling for more troops to serve for three years, and directing the increase of the Regular army and the enlistment of addition seamen.
May 13.
• Resumption of the interrupted communication with Washington via Baltimore.
• Baltimore occupied by Federal troops.
• Anti-Secession Convention in Western Virginia.
May 17.
• Union triumph in Kentucky.
• The Confederate Congress authorize the issue of $50,000,000 in bonds, payable in twenty years.
May 21.
• Seizure of telegrams by the Government.
May 22.
• The seat of the rebel Government transferred to Richmond.
May 24.
• Advance of the Union Army into Virginia. Assassination of Col. ELLSWORTH.
May 27
• Occupation of Newport’s News by Gen. BUTLER.
May 28.
• BANKS and FREMONT appointed Major-Generals.
May 31.
• Cavalry skirmish at Fairfax Court-House.
JUNE.
June 2.
• Union victory at Phillippa, Western Virginia.
June 3.
• BEAUREGARD arrives at Manassas Junction and takes command of the Confederate army. Border State Convention meet at Frankfort, Ky.
June 10.
• Affair at Big Bethel.
June 11.
• Skirmish at Romney, Western Virginia.
June 13.
• Evacuation of Harper’s Ferry by the rebels.
June 17.
• Successful engagement with the rebels at Booneville, Mo.
June 28.
• Arrest of Marshal KANE in Baltimore.
JULY.
July 1.
• Arrest of the Baltimore Board of Police Commissioners.
July 2.
• Successful engagement of Gen. PATTERSON’s column near Martinsborgh.
July 4.
• Meeting of Congress.
July 5.
• Successful engagement at Brier Forks, Mo., between the troops under SIEGEL and the rebels under Gov. JACKSON and RAINS.
July 11.
• Defeat of PEGRAM by MCCLELLAN at Rich Mountain, Va.
• Surrender of the entire rebel force.
July 13.
• Engagement at Carrick’s Ford. Defeat and death of the rebel Gen. GARNETT.
July 16.
• Advance of the army of the Potomac.
July 21.
• Battle of Bull Run.
• Arrival of Gen. MCCLELLAN in Washington, to take command of the army of the Potomac.
July 25.
• Gov. MORGAN, of New-York, calls for 25,000 more troops from the State.
July 27.
• Return of the Sixty-ninth and other New-York regiments from Washington.
July 28.
• The command under Gen. BANKS, at Harper’s Ferry, is withdrawn to the Maryland side of the Potomac.
AUGUST.
August 6.
• Adjournment of Congress.
August 7.
• Hampton burnt by the rebels.
August 10.
• Battle of Wilson’s Creek, near Springfield. Death of Gen. LYON.
August 12.
• Arrest of Hon. C.J. FAULKNER, late United States Minister to France.
August 16.
• Proclamation of the President declaring the States of Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Arkansas in insurrection.
August 24.
• The transmission of secession journals through the mails prohibited.
August 26.
• Skirmish at Summersville.
August 28.
• Capture of the Hatteras Inlet forts by the expedition under Commodore STRINGHAM and Gen. BUTLER.
August 30.
• Gen. FREMONT issues a proclamation confiscating the slaves of rebels.
SEPTEMBER.
September 4.
• False reports of the death of JEFFERSON DAVIS gain circulation and credit.
September 6.
• The Confederates advance into Kentucky.
• Gen. GRANT, with National troops, takes possession of Paducah, Kentucky.
September 10.
• Defeat of FLOYD, near Gauley River.
September 11.
• The Kentucky Legislature pass a resolution ordering rebel troops to leave the State.
• The President, in a letter to Gen. FREMONT, directs him to modify the confiscation clause of his proclamation of August 30.
September 16.
• Wholesale arrest of members of the Maryland regiment.
September 20.
• Surrender of Col. MULLIGAN, at Lexington.
September 25.
• Occupation of Romney, Western Virginia, by National troops.
September 28.
• Occupation of Munson’s Hill by National troops.
OCTOBER.
October 5.
• Unsuccessful effort of rebels to retake the Hatteras Inlet forts.
October 7.
• Gen. FREMONT and his army leave Jefferson City in pursuit of PRICE.
October 8.
• Attack of rebels on Santa Rosa Island, and repulse by regulars and WILSON’s Zouaves.
October 11.
• Naval collision between rebel gunboats and National vessels at the head of the Mississippi passes. Unsuccessful attempt of the steam ram “Turtle” to sink one of the National ships.
October 16.
• Successful skirmish near Harper’s Ferry. Capture of a rebel cannon by troops under Col. GEARY.
October 20.
• Partial blockade of the Potomac by rebel batteries.
October 21.
• Part of Gen. STONE’s Division cross the Potomac at Ball’s Bluff, and after severe fighting are driven back, with great loss, by the enemy. On this occasion Gen. BAKER fell.
• Engagement near Frederickstown, Mo., and defeat of rebels under JEFF. THOMPSON.
October 25.
• Gallant charge of the Frement Guard, under Maj. ZAGONYI, against a superior body of rebels at Springfield.
October 26.
• Brilliant success of National troops under Gen. KELLEY at Romney.
October 31.
• Retirement of Gen. SCOTT.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN appointed Commander-in-Chief.
NOVEMBER.
November 2.
• Removal of Gen. FREMONT from command in the West.
November 7.
• Engagement at Belmont, Mo.
• Bombardment and capture of the forts at Port Royal Entrance by United States squadron.
November 8.
• Capture of the rebel Commissioners SLIDELL and MASON, on the British mail steamer Trent, by the United States war sloop San Jacinto.
November 18.
• Message of JEFF. DAVIS to the rebel Congress.
November 20.
• Disbanding of rebel troops in Accomac and Northampton Counties, Va. Return of the population to their allegiance.
November 23.
• Bombardment of the rebel batteries by Fort Pickens and the ships-of-war Niagara and Richmond.
DECEMBER
December 2.
• Meeting of Congress.
December 4.
• Occupation of Ship Island by National troops.
December 6.
• Occupation of Beaufort, S.C., by the National troops.
December 11.
• Great fire in Charleston.
• Loss estimated at $7,000,000.
December 12.
• Occupation of Tybee Island by National troops.
December 13.
• Engagement at Alleghany Camp, Pocahontas County, Va.
December 16.
• Threatened War between the United States and Great Britain.
December 18.
• Large bodies of rebels dispersed by Gen. POPE in Missouri.
• Capture of a rebel camp with 1,300 prisoners.
• Gallant affair at Drainesville.
• Retreat of the enemy.
December 20.
• Sixteen old whalers sunk by the National forces at the mouth of Charleston Harbor.
December 22.
• Skirmish near Fortress Munroe.
December 25.
• Retreat of the rebel Gen. PRICE to Arkansas.
December 28.
• Adjustment of the Mason-Slidell difficulty.
• Suspension of specie payments in New-York.
December 30.
• Delivery of the rebel Commissioners, MASON and SLIDELL, to the British.
CHRONOLOGY OF THE BLOCKADE
APRIL 1861.
April 19.
• Presidential proclamation authorizing the blockade.
April 27.
• Supplementary proclamation announcing the blockade of North Carolina and Virginia ports.
MAY.
May 4.
• The British ship Hiawatha, twice fired at by the Cumberland, escapes and gets into Norfolk.
May 6.
• The Monticello is blockading the mouth of the Elizabeth River, and the Quaker City is off the Virginia capes.
May 8.
• Shipment of arms via the Mississippi prohibited.
May 9.
• Blockade of Charleston by the Niagara.
May 11.
• Pensacola blockaded. The Pawnee. Monticello, Harriet Lane and Yankee are off Fortress Monroe.
May 18.
• Prizes arrive at Philadelphia.
• Savannah blockaded.
May 20.
• At this date six American flag-ships, with full rank Commodores attached, belong to the blockading squadron.
May 22.
• Complaints of the inefficiency of the blockade, particularly of Charleston.
• The Niagara captures the ship Gen. Parkhill off Charleston.
May 25.
• Blockade of the Mississippi established.
May 27.
• Mobile blockade.
May 28.
• Blockade of Pensacola considered thorough and effective.
• The Brooklyn blockading off the mouths of the Mississippi.
JUNE.
June 1.
• At this date twelve ships, two barks, one brig and five schooners had been captured by the blockading squadron.
• We have at this date our first intimation of an attempt to raise a Confederate navy. Reports received from New-Orleans, state that a flotilla of gunboats and a floating battery are being constructed there.
June 4.
• Engagement between the Harriet Lane and a rebel battery, at the mouth of the Nansemund River.
June 5.
• At this date the Massachusetts had captured twenty-five prizes at the Passes of the Mississippi.
June 11.
• Blockade of Apalachicola by the Montgomery.
June 25.
• Blockade of Mississippi Sound.
JULY.
July 1.
• The Sumter privateer runs the blockade at New-Orleans.
July 4.
• It is announced that thirty-seven men-of-war and thirty-nine steam gunboats are engaged in the blockading service.
• Blockade of Galveston established.
• Seven prizes taken there by the South Carolina between the 4th and 7th of July.
July 17.
• The pirate Sumter is supplied with coal at Curacoa.
July 20.
• Reinforcement of the blockading squadron at the mouths of the Mississippi.
July 30.
• The pirate Sumter supplied with coal at Trinidad.
AUGUST.
August 4.
• Destruction of the rebel privateer Petrel by the St. Lawrence.
August 9.
• A steamer runs the blockade of Charleston.
• Great complaints of the inefficiency of the blockade at that port.
August 16.
• Reports of privateers abound.
• Inefficiency of the blockade of North Carolina ports.
• Vessels from Wilmington and Beaufort arrive at Halifax and other British ports.
August 17.
• Charleston blockading squadron increased.
• It consists now of the Roanoke, Vandalia, Seminole and Iroquois.
• Fernandina strictly blockaded.
• Vessels arrive at Havana from Savannah and New-Orleans.
August 26.
• The ship Finland burnt by the R.R. Cuyler off Apalachicola.
August 28.
• Capture of the Hatteras forts by the United States squadron.
SEPTEMBER.
September 6.
• Charleston is blockaded by the Wabash and Vandalia.
September 14.
• Destruction of the privateer Judah by the United States frigate Colorado off Pensacola harbor.
OCTOBER.
October 5.
• Great slaughter among the enemy at Hatteras by the Monticello’s guns.
October 7.
• Unsuccessful attempt to cut out a privateer at Beaufort, S.C.
October 8.
• Mobile is said to be thoroughly blockaded.
October 11.
• Escape of the Theodora from Charleston harbor with MASON and SLIDELL on board.
• A rebel squadron, under HOLLINS, engages the National fleet at the head of the Mississippi passes, and is driven off.
October 15.
• The ship Thomas Watson, attempting to get into Charleston, is burnt to the water’s edge by the blockading squadron.
• The schooner Emily Tenbrook runs the blockade at Savannah, and gets into St. Thomas.
• Engagement between the Seminole and rebel batteries at Quantico.
October 17.
• The Nashville runs the blockade at Charleston.
October 19.
• Engagement between the Massachusetts and a rebel steamboat at the mouth of the Mississippi.
NOVEMBER.
November 2.
• The rebel steamer Bermuda, laden with cotton for Liverpool, runs the blockade at Savannah.
November 7.
• Capture by the United States squadron of the forts at Port Royal entrance — Destruction off Galveston of the privateer Royal Yacht by the Santee frigate.
November 9.
• Capture of MASON and SLIDELL by the San Jacinto.
November 19.
• American ship Harvey Birch burnt at sea by the pirate Nashville.
November 20.
• Twenty-five vessels, laden with stone, sail from New-Bedford, to be sunk at the mouth of Charleston Harbor.
November 21.
• The pirate Nashville enters the British port of Southampton.
November 25.
• Capture by the Penguin of the schooner Albion, of Nassau, N.P., with a cargo valued at $100,000.
• The privateer Sumter escapes the Iroquois, which was watching for her off Martinique.
DECEMBER.
December 1.
• The Secretary of the Navy reports that 160 prizes have been captured since the commencement of the blockade, by 43 vessels of the squadron.
December 20.
• Sixteen vessels sunk at the mouth of Charleston Harbor.
1862
A YEAR OF WAR.
DIARY OF MILITARY AND NAVAL EVENTS OF 1862.
VICTORIES AND DEFEATS, TRIUMPHS AND DISASTERS, SUCCESSES AND REVERSES OF THE ARMY AND NAVY OF THE UNION.
DECEMBER 31, 1862
JANUARY.
January 1.
• MASON AND SLIDELL LEFT FORT WARREN, having been transferred to a British gunboat.
• Battle between Fort Pickens and the rebel batteries.
• The Union prisoners transferred from Charleston to Columbia, S.C.
January 2.
• Steamer Ella Warley ran the blockade into Charleston, S.C.
January 3.
• Reconnaissance to Big Bethel, Va.
January 4.
• Huntersville, Va., attacked by Union troops, and the rebel stores there captured or destroyed.
January 5.
• Slight skirmish near Port Royal, S.C.
January 7.
• Ex-Gov. MOREHEAD, of Kentucky, releases from Fort Warren
• Gunboat reconnaissance to within two miles of Columbus, Ky.
January 8.
• Rebels in Randolph County, Mo., routed.
January 10.
• Expedition bound down the Mississippi left Cairo.
• HUMPHREY MARSHALL defeated near Preston-burgh, Ky.
January 11.
• Gunboat action near Columbus, Ky.
• Bridges on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad burned by the rebels.
January 12.
• Sloop-of-war Pensacola ran past the rebel batteries on the Potomac.
• Gen. BURNSIDE’s advance sailed from Fort Monroe.
• A nephew of Gen. POLK (rebel) captured, bearing dispatches.
January 13.
• RESIGNATION OF SECRETARY CAMERON.
• EDWIN M. STANTON was appointed Secretary of War.
January 14.
• Gunboat reconnaissance to within a mile and a half of Columbus, Ky.
January 15.
• Rebel schooner burned by the men on vessels blockading the Rappahannock.
January 16.
• Reconnaissance from Lexington, Mo.
January 17.
• Gen. BURNSIDE’s expedition arrived at Hatteras, N.C., after meeting with heavy gales.
January 18.
• Death of Ex-President JOHN TYLER, at Richmond, Va.
• Reconnaissance of the gunboat Conesloga, up the Tennessee River.
January 19.
• BATTLE OF MILL SPRINGS, KY., in which the rebel Gen. ZOLLICOFFER was killed Rebel schooner Lizzie Weston captured.
January 20.
• Order issued for the appointment of Commissioners to visit Richmond, to provide for the welfare of our troops imprisoned there.
• Rebel schooner Wilder captured, in Mobile Bay.
January 21.
• Gen. MCCLERNAND’s expedition returned to Cairo, from reconnoitering in the vicinity of Columbus, Ky.
January 23.
• A second fleet of stone-laden vessels sunk in Charleston, S.C., harbor.
• Rebel steamer Calhoun captured off Southwest Pass, month of the Mississippi.
January 24.
• Two rebel vessels grounded, in attempting to run the blockade at the mouth of the Mississippi. They were burned.
January 26.
• Anniversary of the secession of Louisiana. The day celebrated in New-Orleans.
• Reconnaissance toward Munfordsville, Ky.
January 27.
• Bishop AMES and Hon. HAMILTON FISH appointed Commissioners to visit Richmond under the order of the 20th.
January 28.
• Gunboat expedition to reconnoitre in the neighborhood of Fort Pulaski, below Savannah. Engagement between our boats and those of rebel Commodore TATNALL.
January 30.
• THE MONITOR LAUNCHED.
January 31.
• Secretary SEWARD ordered the release of the prisoners in Fort Lafayette who were taken on vessels which had violated the blockade.
• The President was authorized by Congress to take possession of the railroad and telegraph lines of the United States.
• Queen VICTORIA declared anew her intention to observe neutrality in the American war.
FEBRUARY.
February 1.
• Skirmish near Bowling Green, Ky.
February 2.
• Cavalry charge of the rebels on a small force of Union infantry in Morgan County, Tenn.
February 3.
• The privateersmen who, up to this date, were confined in the city jails were released there from and imprisoned in Fort Lafayette.
• Rebel steamer Nashville sent from Southampton, Eng.
• The Union gunboat Tuscarora, starting in pursuit, was stopped by British frigate Shannon.
February 4.
• Brisk skirmish on the Potomac, near the Occoquan.
• Discussion in the rebel Virginia House of Delegates on the subject of enrolling free negroes.
February 5.
• Gen. THOS. FRANCIS MEAGHER took command of the Irish Brigade in MCCLELLAN’s army.
• British schooner Mars captured off Florida.
February 6.
• FORT HENRY, ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER, TAKEN BY OUR WESTERN GUNBOAT FLEET under command of Flag-Officer A.H. FOOTE. Gunboat expedition left Fort Henry.
February 7.
• BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N.C. Harper’s Ferry, Va., shelled by our batteries by order of Col. GEARY, on account of the rebels firing on a boat under flag of truce.
• Romney, Va., occupied by our troops under Gen. LANDER.
• Rebel picket guard surprised at Germantown, Va.
• Two rebel transports on the Tennessee River destroyed.
February 8.
• BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND continued. The Island, with all its fortifications, captured, 3,000 stand of small arms, 3,000 prisoners, 6 forts and large quantities of military supplies taken by Gen. BURNSIDE’s force. Capt. O. JENNINGS WISE mortally wounded.
• Rebel boats, the Sallie Wood and Muscle, captured at Chickasaw, Miss.; also, three steamboats burned at Florence, Ala.
February 9.
• Arrest of Gen. C.P. STONE. He was sent to Fort Lafayette.
February 10.
• The rebel squadron from Roanoke Island attacked and destroyed.
• Elizabeth City, N.C., surrendered.
• Martial law proclaimed in Kansas.
February 11.
• Bursting of the Sawyer gun at Newport’s News, Va.
February 12.
• Edenton, N.C., taken by Lieut. MAURY, U.S.N.
• Retreat of rebel Gen. PRICE from Springfield, Mo.
February 13.
• Springfield, Mo., occupied by the Union troops under Gen. CURTIS
• The rebel Gen. PRICE hastily evacuated the place in the morning.
• Expedition for the destruction of the Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal, N.C., accomplished the work.
February 14.
• The Secretary of War ordered the release of all political prisoners, on condition of their taking an oath not to aid the rebellion.
• Amnesty granted to such by the President.
• Return of Messrs. AMES and FISH from Fort Monroe. The rebels refused to allow them within their lines for the object on which they went, but agreed to exchange all the prisoners, releasing 300 Union prisoners more than we released rebels, on condition of the release of the next 300 falling into our hands.
• Cavalry reconnaisance to Blooming Gap, Va.
February 15.
• Bowling Green, Ky., evacuated by the rebels and occupied by Gen. BUELL’s army.
• Engagement between rebel gunboats and our batteries near Fort Pulaski, Georgia.
February 16.
• SURRENDER OF FORT DONELSON to Gen. GRANT. We captured from 12,000 to 15,000 prisoners and large quantities of stores and artillery. Gens. FLOYD and PILLOW, (rebels), escaped. Gens. BUCKNER and TILGHMAN captured.
February 17.
• Two rebel regiments, marching to reinforce Fort Donelson, captured.
• Battle at Sugar Creek, Arkansas.
February 18.
• Proclamation of Gen. BURNSIDE and Flag-Officer GOLDSBOROUGH in North Carolina issued.
• Skirmish at Independence, Mo.
• Rebel Congress met at Richmond.
February 19.
• Com. FOOTE took possession of Clarksville, Tenn.
February 20.
• Winton, N.C., burned by Gen. BURNSIDE’s troops.
• Gunboat Reconnaissance up the Occoquan Creek, Va.
February 21.
• Execution of Capt. NATHANIEL P. GORDON, a slave-trader, at New-York.
• National troops defeated on the Rio Grande, New-Mexico.
February 22.
• JEFF. DAVIS INAUGURATED AT RICHMOND, Va.
• Martial law proclaimed over West Tennessee.
• The day appointed by the President for a general movement of the land and naval forces.
February 23.
• The rebels evacuated Nashville, Tenn.
• Gen. CURTIS captured Fayetteville, Ark., the rebels fleeing in contusion.
• Gallatin, Tenn., occupied by Gen. BUELL.
February 24.
• Harper’s Ferry occupied by Gen. BANKS’ troops.
February 25.
• NASHVILLE, TENN., OCCUPIED BY THE UNION ARMY.
• Order issued by the War Department forbidding the publication of war news not authorized by the Government. The telegraph lines taken possession of the Government.
February 26.
• The Loan and Treasury Bill (legal tender) approved by the President.
February 27.
• The rebels began to evacuate Columbus, Ky.
• The Monitor sailed from New-York.
February 28.
• The steamer Nashville ran the blockade at Beaufort, N.C.
• Fast Day in the “Confederate” States.
• Skirmish at Sikeston, Mo.
• Charlestown, Va., occupied by the Union troops.
MARCH.
March 1.
• JOHN MINOR BOTTS arrested in Richmond, Va., for treason to the Confederacy.
• Schooner British Queen captured endeavoring to run the blockade at Wilmington, N.C.
March 2.
• Death of Gen. F.W. LANDER.
• Gunboat engagement with rebel batteries at Pittsburgh, Tenn.
March 3.
• COLUMBUS, KY., OCCUPIED BY OUR FORCES, the city having been deserted by the rebels.
• Martinsburgh, Va., occupied by Gen. BANKS’ forces.
• Gen. POPE’s forces engaged with the enemy near New-Madrid, Mo.
• Fernandina, Fla., surrendered to Com. DUPONT and Gen. WRIGHT, (Union.)
March 5.
• Our pickets at Columbus, Ky., driven in.
• Bunker Hill, Va., occupied by Union forces.
• Rebel schooner Wm. Mallory captured.
• BEAUREGARD assumed command of the rebel army of the Mississippi.
March 6.
• PRESIDENT LINCOLN’S EMANCIPATION MESSAGE sent to Congress.
• Smithfield, Va., occupied by our troops.
• Battle of Pea Ridge, Ark., commenced.
March 7.
• Battle of Pea Ridge continued. The rebels were under command of BEN MCCULLOCH, and our troops of Gen. CURTIS.
• The rebels commenced their retreat from Centreville, Va.
March 8.
• BATTLE OF PEA RIDGE ENDED, by the defeat and rout of the rebels.
• BEAUREGARD called on the planters to send their bells to depots, for conversion into cannon.
• The Army of the Potomac divided into five Corps d’Armee.
• THE MERRIMAC, FROM NORFOLK, ATTACKED OUR FLEET IN HAMPTON ROADS. She sunk the Cumberland. The Congress surrendered and was burned. The Minnesota grounded. The St. Lawrence was engaged. The gunboats Oregon and Zouave were badly damaged.
March 9.
• The Battle between the Merrimac and our Vessels continued. The Monitor, having arrived on the evening of the 8th, entered into the contest and fought the Merrimac, the two vessels touching each other part of the time. The Merrimac retired, the Monitor being undamaged. Lieut.-Commanding WORDEN, of the Monitor was injured. Cockpit Point, Va., occupied by our troops.
• The rebel steamer Geo. Page burned by the rebels.
• Point Pleasant, Mo., taken by a brigade of Union troops.
March 10.
• CENTREVILLE, Va., occupied by our forces.
• Gunboat Whitehall destroyed by fire in Hampton Roads.
• The last of the rebels left Manassas and our scouts approached the place.
March 11.
• Our troops entered the works at Manassas Junction.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN having taken the field with the Army of the Potomac, the President relieved him of the command of the other military Departments.
• Gen. HALLECK assigned to the command of the Department of the Mississippi.
• Gen. FREMONT placed in command of Mountain Department.
March 12.
• JACKSONVILLE, Fla., occupied by our troops.
• Winchester, Va., reached by BANKS’ forces.
• Forts in New York harbor garrisoned.
• Schooner Fair Play captured off South Carolina.
March 13.
• JOS. HOLT and ROBT. DALE OWEN appointed to audit claims against the United States.
March 14.
• BATTLE OF NEWBERN, N.C.
• The rebels evacuated New Madrid, Mo., leaving immense stores, & c., in our hands.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN issued an address to his army.
• Reconnaissance to Cedar Run. Va.
March 15.
• Naval expedition left Cairo for Hickman, Ky.
March 16.
• Rebels defeated by Gen. GARFIELD in the Cumberland Mountains, East Tenn.
March 17.
• Gunboat Cimerone launched.
March 18.
• Ship Emily St. Pierre captured near Charleston S.C.
• Steamer Nashville escaped from Beaufort N.C.
• Rebel gunboat sunk near New Madrid by a masked battery.
• Gen. DIX assigned to the command of the “Middle” Department.
• Aquia Creek, Va., evacuated by the rebels.
March 20.
• An expedition of engineers from Gen. POPE’s army, having reached Commodore FOOTE above Island No. 10, started on its return and commenced cutting the famous canal for the passage of gunboats to New Madrid.
March 21.
• Gen. BUTLER arrived at Ship Island.
• Washington, N.C., occupied by Gen. BURNSIDE’s troops.
• Departments of the Gulf and of the South constituted. Gen. BUTLER assigned to the former, and Gen. T.W. SHERMAN to the latter.
March 22.
• Reconnaissance in force to Cumberland Gap.
March 23.
• BATTLE OF WINCHESTER, VA. Rebels defeated, with a loss of 869 killed, wounded and missing. Union loss 115 killed, 450 wounded.
• Surrender of Fort Macon, North Carolina, demanded by our forces, which being refused, the fort was invested.
March 24.
• Engagement between the gunboats Tyler and Lexington and a rebel masked battery near Eastport, Tenn.
March 27.
• Schooner Julia Warden captured near Charleston, S.C.
March 28.
• Shipping Point, Va., occupied by Union troops.
• Reconnaissance beyond Warrenton, Va.
• Battle 20 miles from Santa Fe. New-Mexico.
March 29.
• “Middle” Department constituted.
• Charge through Middleburgh, Va., in pursuit of rebels fleeing from the place.
• Schooner Lydia and Mary captured.
March 31.
• Gen. HUNTER assumed command of the Department of the South.
APRIL.
April 2.
• Gen. BANKS’ force proceeded from Strasburgh to Woodstock, Va., and were engaged with the enemy at the latter place.
• The President’s Emancipation and Compensation resolutions passed the Senate.
• Thoroughfare Gap, Va., occupied by Gen. GEARY’s Union army.
• Early in the morning, Col. ROBERTS spiked the guns of the upper rebel battery at Island No. 10.
• The pioneer steamer passed through the newlyconstructed canal from above Island No. 10 to New-Madrid.
April 3.
• Bill for the abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia passed the Senate.
• Apalachicola, Fla., surrendered to our seamen.
April 4.
• Departments of the Shenandoah and of the Rappahannock constituted.
• The rebel floating battery at Island No. 10 again shelled.
• Our forces at Pittsburgh Landing, Tenn., attacked.
April 5.
• THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC ARRIVED IN FRONT OF THE ENEMY’s WORKS AT YORKTOWN. The rebels fired the first shot, after which the cannonading continued with but slight intermission until dark.
• The gunboat Carondelet arrived at New Madrid, Missouri, having run the rebel batteries in a terrible thunder storm.
April 6.
• BATTLE OF SHILOH, OR PITTSBURG LANDING, COMMENCED. The rebels outnumbered us, and on this day succeeded in driving our troops back to the protection of the gunboats.
• Gunboat Pittsburgh ran the batteries a Island No. 10 under a terrific fire from the rebel batteries.
• The Carondelet engaged with rebel batteries all day.
• Gen. MITCHEL reached Shelbyville, Tennessee.
April 7.
• SURRENDER OF ISLAND No. 10.
• Gen. POPE having crossed his army to the Tennessee shore below the Island.
• Battle of Pittsburgh Landing continued.
• Our troops, reinforced, retook the camp and batteries captured by the rebels on the 6th, and captured a large number of prisoners. The enemy put to a full retreat, and Gen. A.S. JOHNSTON (rebel) killed.
• The rebels were commanded by POLK and BEAUREGARD.
April 9.
• Great rejoicing throughout the loyal State over the Union victories. Congratulatory orders issued by Secretaries STANTON and WELLES.
• Gen. HALLECK left St. Louis to assume command of his department in the field.
April 10.
• Bombardment of Fort Pulaski commenced.
April 11.
• BOMBARDMENT OF FORT PULASKI CONTINUED. THE FORT SURRENDERED.
• The District of Columbia Emancipation Bill passed by the House of Representatives.
• Huntsville Ala., occupied by Gen. MITCHEL’s forces.
• SECOND APPEARANCE OF THE MERRIMAC and her consorts in Hampton Roads. She captured three small vessels and then returned.
• Gen. HALLECK arrived at Pittsburgh Landing.
April 12.
• Gen. HUNTER, at Fort Pulaski, declared free all slaves in the Fort and on Cockspur Island.
• Engagement at Monterey, Va.
• Expedition from Huntsville, Ala., seized the junction of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad.
• Another expedition from Huntsville arrived at Decatur in time to save the railroad bridge, which they found in flames.
April 13.
• Two bridges on the Mobile and Ohio Railroad destroyed by an expedition from Pittsburgh Landing.
April 14.
• Bombardment of Fort Pillow commenced.
• Gunboat expedition from the Potomac flotilla up the Rappahannock. The batteries at Lowry’s Point shelled out.
April 15.
• Our gunboats shelled the neighborhood of Gloucester, Va., near Yorktown.
• The rebels cut the levee on the Arkansas side of the Mississippi near Fort Wright. Immense destruction of property in consequence.
• Ex-Secretary CAMERON arrested on charge of falsely imprisoning PIERCE BUTLER.
April 16.
• THE PRESIDENT SIGNED THE BILL ABOLISHING SLAVERY IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
• M. MERCIER, French Minister, arrived in Richmond.
• Troops left Ship Island for New-Orleans.
• Spirited engagement at Lee’s Mills, near Yorktown.
April 17.
• Mount Jackson and Newmarket, Va., occupied by BANKS’ troops.
• A part of MCDOWELL’s force marched from Warrenton on Fredericksburgh.
• An expedition, under Gen. RENO, left Newbern, N.C., to attack a body of rebels near Elizabeth City.
April 18.
• BOMBARDMENT OF FORTS JACKSON AND ST. PHILIP, BELOW NEW-ORLEANS, COMMENCED.
• Gen. RENO’s expedition landed above Elizabeth City.
• The rebels at Yorktown repulsed in a night attack on our troops.
• Falmouth, opposite Fredericksburgh, Va., occupied by our troops.
April 19.
• BATTLE OF CAMDEN, (or South Mills,) N.C.
• Gen. BANKS’ advance occupied Sparta, Va.
• Gen. MITCHEL at Iuka, Miss.
• Bombardment of Fort Wright continued.
April 21.
• Ship R.C. Files captured at Mobile.
April 22.
• Gen. BANKS’ advance reached Harrisonburgh, Va.
• Bombardment of Fort Jackson continued.
• Rebel Congress at Richmond suddenly dispersed.
April 23.
• Gunboat Santiago de Cuba chased the Nashville unsuccessfully.
April 24.
• Destruction of the Dismal Swamp Canal, North Carolina, completed.
• Our fleet passed Forts Jackson and St. Philip below New-Orleans.
• United States Steamer Varuna sunk, after a most gallant action.
• Great destruction of property in New-Orleans, in anticipation of the approach of our forces.
• Rebels near Corinth attacked and driven back.
April 25.
• ARRIVAL OF OUR SQUADRON OFF NEW-ORLEANS.
• Surrender of Fort Macon, North Carolina, after a bombardment of ten and a half hours by our fleet and batteries.
• Death of Gen. C.F. SMITH.
April 26.
• Com. FARRAGUT demanded the surrender of New-Orleans. The Mayor replied that the city was at the mercy of our gunboats.
• Capture of a rebel outwork at Yorktown.
• Fort Macon occupied by our forces.
April 27.
• AMERICAN FLAG RAISED OVER THE MINT IN NEW-ORLEANS.
• Severe skirmish near Newbern, N.C.
• Gen. BUTLER landed his troops above Fort St. Philip.
April 28.
• Surrender of Forts Jackson and St. Philip.
• Rebel gunboats on the Warwick River shelled our encampments.
• Skirmish at Monterey, Tenn.
• Captured steamer Ella Warley arrived at Port Royal, S.C.
April 29.
• Gen. MITCHEL routed the rebels at Bridgeport, Ala.
• Successful skirmish near Corinth.
• Rebel battery near Port Royal captured.
April 30.
• Cannonading at Yorktown.
• The rebels cut the telegraph wire near Huntsville, Ala., and attacked one of our brigades.
MAY.
May 1.
• Huntsville, Ala., in possession of Gen. MITCHEL.
• Great rise in the Mississippi.
• Rebel battery at White Point, North Edisto Island, captured.
• Schooner Magnolia captured.
May 2.
• Rebel Gen. MORGAN captured some of our troops at Pulaski, Tenn.
• Gen. BUTLER took possession of the True Delta in New-Orleans.
May 3.
• Rebels near Farmington, Miss., attacked. The position carried and two bridges destroyed.
May 4.
• YORKTOWN EVACUATED BY THE REBELS early in the morning, and our troops occupied the works.
• Brisk fight between our cavalry and artillery and the rebels, from Yorktown near Williamsburgh.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN reported the capture of 71 heavy guns and large amount of ammunition, tents, & c.
• Gloucester taken.
• MORGAN’s rebel cavalry attacked at Lebanon, Tenn.
• English steamer Circassian captured near Havana.
May 5.
• BATTLE OF WILLIAMSBURGH, VA. After a hard-fought battle in which we came near being defeated, our forces were victorious, and the enemy abandoned their position in the night, leaving sick and wounded in our hands.
May 6.
• Williamsburgh occupied by our troops.
• The Merrimac moving and the Monitor and other vessels prepared for action.
• The rebels burned their gunboats on the York River.
May 7.
• BATTLE OF WEST POINT, VA. Gen. FRANKLIN’s division was engaged in a terrible conflict with the rebels under LEE, but succeeded in driving them back in the Chickahominy.
• The President visited Fort Monroe, the Galena, Monitor and Minnesota.
• The Merrimac appeared off Craney Island and returned to Norfolk.
• Gen. MILROY, in the Mountain Department, fell back after some skirmishing.
May 8.
• The iron clad Galena and gunboats Aroostook and Port Royal started up James River.
• Monitor, Naugatuck and several gunboats left for Sewell’s Point which place they attacked.
• Merrimac appeared but refused to fight.
May 9.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN effected a junction with FRANKLIN’s Corps at West Point.
• Monitor fired on the batteries at Sewell’s Point.
• Battle at Farmington, near Corinth, Miss. The rebels attacked our position, and though our forces were at first compelled to fall back, the fight resulted in a victory for our arms.
• Gen. HUNTER issued his order declaring free the slaves in Georgia, Florida and South Carolina.
• Evacuation of Pensacola by the rebels completed.
• Engagement at Slater’s Mills, Va.
• Gunboat fight at Fort Darling, on the James River.
May 10.
• SURRENDER OF NORFOLK.
• Gosport Navy-yard burned by the rebels.
• Victory on the Mississippi, near Fort Pillow, in a gunboat engagement between eight rebel iron-clads and six Union boats. Two of the rebel gunboats blown up and one sunk.
• Craney Island abandoned by the rebels.
• Gen. BUTLER seized $800,000 in the office of the Consul of the Netherlands, New-Orleans.
May 11.
• THE REBELS SET FIRE TO THE MERRIMAC. She blew up at 5 A.M.
• Monitor and other gunboats proceeded toward Norfolk.
May 12.
• Great destruction of tobacco on the Elizabeth River.
• Rebel steamer Gov. Morton captured.
May 13.
• MCCLELLAN’s advance guard at White House, Va.; Gen. MCCLELLAN’s Headquarters at Cumberland, near which was skirmishing with the enemy.
May 15.
• Dash of mounted guerrillas on our railroad guard beyond Front Royal, Va.
May 16.
• United States transport Oriental wrecked near Cape Hatteras.
May 17.
• The rebels driven across the Chickahominy at Bottom’s Bridge. The rebels burned the bridge, and obstructed the march of our troops.
May 19.
• The rebels attacked, killed and took prisoners a party of our men on the James River, landing under flag of truce.
• The President, by proclamation, repudiated the order of Gen. HUNTER liberating the slaves in his department.
May 20.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s advance reached New Bridge, 8 miles from Richmond.
• Advance of all his army.
May 23.
• TERRIFIC, FIGHTING BETWEEN GEN. BANKS’ ADVANCE UNDER COL. KENLEY AND THE REBELS AT FRONT ROYAL, VA.
• A portion of Gen. MCCLELLAN’s army crossed the Chickahominy.
• MCCLELLAN’s army engaged in three skirmishes the rebels driven from Mechanicsville.
• The rebels defeated at Lewisburgh, Va., in the Mountain Department.
May 24.
• Gen. BANKS’ column retreated from Strasburgh to Winchester, Va., fighting the rebels gallantly.
May 25.
• Gen. BANKS retreated from Winchester to Martinsburgh, Va., fighting as he went. Our troops were attacked early in the morning, and fought during most of the dry. Our baggage trains reached the Potomac.
May 26.
• THE CAPITAL SUPPOSED TO BE IN DANGER.
• Hanover, Courthouse, Va., captured by Gen. MCCLELLAN. The rebels completely routed.
• Gen. MORGAN ordered the Seventh Regiment to Washington. Other regiments to follow.
May 27.
• President LINCOLN delivers to Congress a message relative to Secretary CAMERON’s transactions.
• Steamer Patras captured.
May 28.
• RETREAT OF THE REBELS FROM CORINTH, Miss., COMMENCED.
• An expedition under Col. ELLIOTT, sent from Camp near Corinth to the Sashville and Ohio Railroad, was successful.
May 29.
• Evacuation of Corinth, by the rebels completed in the night.
• Bridge 500 feet long across South Anna Creek, Va., burned by our cavalry, who also captured Ashland, Va.
May 30.
• Front Royal occupied by our troops.
May 31.
• BATTLE OF FAIR OAKS, before Richmond, commenced. The result of the day’s fighting was unfavorable.
JUNE.
June 1.
• The battle of Fair Oaks continued. This day’s fight was very severe, and we regained our position of the day before. The Union loss in two days’ battles was, in killed, wounded and missing, 5,739
• The rebels driven out of Strasburgh, Va., and the town occupied by FREMONT’s army.
June 3.
• Landing of Union troops on James Island, S.C.
June 4.
• Gen. POPE 30 miles south of Corinth, pushing the enemy.
• Skirmish on James Island, S.C.
• The rebels burned their works near Fort Pillow.
June 5.
• Artillery battle at New Bridge, near Richmond.
• Fort Pillow evacuated after a siege of 52 days.
June 6.
• Memphis, Tenn., occupied by the Union army.
• Great gunboat battle opposite Memphis; 7 of the enemy’s gunboats and rams destroyed.
• Gen. FREMONT attacked the rebel rear guard near Harrisonburgh, Va.
June 7.
• Battle at Union Church near Harrisonburgh, Va. The rebels routed.
• Rebel batteries at Chattanooga silenced.
• WM. B. MUMFORD executed for tearing down the American flag from the mint at New-Orleans.
June 8.
• Battle of Cross Keys, Va. FREMONT’s army engaged.
June 9.
• Battle of Port Republic, Va., between SHIELDS’ and JACKSON’s forces.
June 10.
• Skirmish near James Island.
June 13.
• Our pickets driven in from Old Church before Richmond.
• The railroad behind MCCLELLAN’s army, four miles from White House, cut by the rebel cavalry.
June 15.
• Gen. WOOL visited Harper’s Ferry.
June 16.
• Battle of James Island, S.C.; our forces repulsed.
June 17.
• Battle between our gunboats and rebel batteries at St. Charles, Ark., on the White River.
June 18.
• Cumberland Gap occupied by Union Gen. MORGAN’s force.
June 20.
• Commodore PORTER arrived off Vicksburgh with ten mortar-boats.
• Free Territory act signed by the President.
• Holly Springs occupied by our forces.
June 21.
• Death of Col. ELLET, of the Mississippi ram fleet.
June 24.
• EVACUATION OF WHITE HOUSE LANDING by MCCLELLAN commenced. Gen. HOOKER’s Division attacked by the rebels, who were repulsed at the point of the bayonet.
• President LINCOLN at West Point, N.Y.
June 25.
• SEVERE AND SUCCESSFUL FIGHTING BEFORE RICHMOND. Reconnoitering expedition left Newbern, N.C.
• Gen. BUTLER ordered the seizure of the property of the traitor TWIGGS.
June 26.
• TERRIFIC FIGHTING BEFORE RICHMOND, the rebels having attacked our right wing when engaged in changing base from the Pamunkey to the James Rivers.
• The rebels destroyed their gunboats the Van Dorn, Polk and Livingston, on the Yazoo River.
• Gen. POPE assigned to the command of the Army of Virginia.
June 27.
• BATTLE OF GAINES’ HILL, near Richmond. Stonewall JACKSON and EWELL attempted to turn our right flank and were repulsed. The entire right wing of our army crossed the Chickahominy in the night in perfect order.
• Shelling of Vicksburgh.
• Gen. FREMONT relieved of the command of the Mountain Department.
June 28.
• BATTLES BEFORE RICHMOND CONTINUED.
• Evacuation of White House Landing completed.
June 29.
• BATTLE FOUGHT 1 1/2 MILES FROM SAVAGE’s STATION, near Richmond. At dark the rebels were repulsed, and forced to abandon their position.
• The crew of the steamer Kanawha cut out the English steamer Ann from under the guns of Fort Morgan, Mobile.
June 30.
• BATTLE OF CHARLES CITY CROSS ROADS, or White Oak Swamp, near Richmond. The rebels still held at bay. Loss very heavy on both sides.
JULY.
July 1.
• BATTLE OF MALVERN HILL, before Richmond. Our troops were more successful this day than on those preceding, having been victorious in every action.
• Brilliant cavalry engagement near Boonsville, Miss. The rebels attacked our forces, but were repulsed after seven hours’ hard fighting.
• The President announced his decision to call for 300,000 more volunteers.
• Tax Bill approved.
July 2.
• Gov. MORGAN appealed to the people of New-York to volunteer.
July 4.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN issued a congratulatory address to his army, in which he declared that it should enter Richmond.
July 5.
• Vigorous bombardment of Vicksburgh.
July 7.
• Gen. CURTIS’ advance in Arkansas attacked by the rebels, near Bayou Cache. The rebels repulsed and put to flight.
• Gen. BURNSIDE’s flagboat arrived at Fort Monroe.
July 8.
• President LINCOLN and Gen. BURNSIDE arrived at Fort Monroe. The President proceeded up the James River.
• An expedition up the Roanoke River started from Plymouth, N.C.
July 10.
• BURNSIDE’s force encamped at Newport’s News.
July 11.
• Gen. HALLECK assigned by the President to the command of the whole land forces of the United States, as General-in-Chief.
July 12.
• Gen. ALBERT PIKE resigned his command in the rebel army.
• Gen. CURTIS’ command arrived at Helena, Ark.
July 14.
• Gen. POPE assumed command of the Army of Virginia, and issued his famous order, discarding the idea of maintaining lines of retreat and bases of support.
• Battle at Fayetteville, Ark.
July 15.
• Gen. STEVENS’ division from South Carolina arrived in Hampton Roads to reinforce MCCLELLAN.
• Rebel iron-clad gunboat Arkansas run past our vessels and succeeded in reaching the rebel batteries at Vicksburgh, before reaching which she had a desperate fight with the Union iron-clad Carondelet.
July 17.
• Congress adjourned.
• CYNTHIANA, KY., taken by the rebels.
July 18.
• Death of the rebel Gen. D.E. TWIGGS.
July 19.
• Gen. BUTLER issued an order emancipating certain negroes.
July 20.
• The expedition from Fredericksburgh made a descent on the Virginia Central Railroad at Beaver Dam Creek; the railroad and telegraph lines for several miles were destroyed.
July 22.
• The President issued an order for the seizure of supplies needed by our armies; directing that negroes should be employed as laborers, giving them wages for their labor.
• The President ordered that foreigners should not be required by military commanders to take the oath of allegiance.
July 23.
• Gen. POPE ordered the arrest of all disloyal male citizens in the lines of his army.
• A cavalry expedition from Fredericksburgh met and defeated two bodies of rebel cavalry.
July 24.
• Gen. HALLECK left Washington for Fortress Monroe.
• British steamer Tubal Cain captured.
July 25.
• Steamer Cuba ran the blockade into Mobile.
• President issued a proclamation warning rebels of the provisions of the Confiscation act.
July 27.
• British steamer Memphis ran out of Charleston.
• Reconnaissance in force in direction of Kinston, N.C.
• Gen. POPE left Washington for his army.
July 30.
• A part of Com. PORTER’s mortar fleet arrived in Hampton Roads.
AUGUST.
August 1.
• Severe fight at Newark, Mo.
• Retaliatory order issued by the rebel Government. Gen. POPE and his officers declared not to be entitled to the privileges of prisoners of war.
August 2.
• Reconnoitering column from POPE’s army crossed the Rapidan and took Orange Courthouse, Va.
• Railroad and telegraph lines between Orange Court-house and Gordonsville destroyed.
• Brush with the rebels at Ozark, Mo.
August 3.
• Reconnoitering party from the Army of the Potomac advanced to within 14 miles of Petersburgh, Va.
• Steamer Columbia captured with a valuable cargo.
August 4.
• A DRAFT FOR 300,000 MEN FOR NINE MONTHS ORDERED.
August 5.
• BATTLE OF BATON ROUGE.
• Malvern Hill occupied by our troops after a right of 1 1/2 hours, our gunboats shelled a rebel encampment beyond Malvern Hill.
• Gen. ROBERT MCCOOK, assassinated by the rebels, near Salem, Tenn.
August 6.
• REBEL RAM ARKANSAS BLOWN UP.
• 3000 prisoners exchanged.
• Gen. HOOKER retired in the night from Malvern Hill.
• Death of Gen. ROBERT MCCOOK.
August 7.
• Guerrilla fight near Kirksville, Mo., the rebels defeated.
• English steamer Ladona captured. The rebels grossed the Ranidac and advanced toward Culpepper Court-house and Madison Court-house, Va.
August 8.
• POPE’s advance fell slowly back, our forces concentrating at Culpepper Court-house.
August 9.
• BATTLE OF CEDAR MOUNTAIN.
• Guerrilas at Stockton, Mo., defeated.
• Regulations for the enrollment and draft issued.
August 10.
• Slight skirmishing at Cedar Mountain, Va. The enemy fell back two miles from our front.
August 11.
• The enemy sent a flag of truce to Culpepper Courthouse, asking permission to bury their dead of the battle of Cedar Mountain. The day spent in burying the dead.
• Independence, Mo., captured by the rebels.
• Guerrilla fight near Williamsport, Tenn.
August 12.
• Reconnaissance in force from POPE’s army in the neighborhood of Slaughter Mountain.
August 13.
• Collision between the steamers Peabody and West Point on the Potomac; about 80 lives of convalescent soldiers lost.
August 14.
• Gen. BURNSIDE’s corps d’armee arrived at Fredericksburgh.
• The draft ordered to take place Sept. 1.
August 16.
• UNION TROOPS EVACUATED HARRISON’s LANDING, Va. The rebels made a feint of an attempt to cross the Rapidan but were driven back.
• Fight in Charlton County, Mo.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s advance arrived at Williamsburgh.
August 17.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s advance from Harrison’s Landing reached Hampton.
August 18.
• The rear guard of MCCLELLAN’s army crossed the Chickahominy on its way toward Fort Monroe.
• Gen. POPE’s retreat commenced.
• The rebel Congress met.
August 20.
• The Sioux Indians attacked Fort Ridgely, Minn., and were repulsed.
• The rebels drove in our pickets between Culpepper Court-house and the Rappahannock.
August 21.
• Two rebel regiments crossed the Rappahannock in face of Gen. SIGEL’s batteries, which opened on them, killing many and driving the rest back in confusion.
August 22.
• STUART’s Cavalry attacked a train of sick and wounded at Catlett’s Station, Va.
• Reception of Gen. CORCORAN in New-York.
August 23.
• Early in the morning our artillery all along the line opened on the enemy from this side of the Rappahannock. For several hours a terrific artillery duel was kept up. Rappahannock Bridge blown up.
August 25.
• Sharp skirmish at Waterloo Bridge, Va.
• “Stonewall” JACKSON left the rebel army with his force, and took the direction of Manassas, which he approached through Thoroughfare Gap.
• The rebels were repulsed in an attack on Fort Donelson.
August 26.
• The rebel cavalry reached Manassas, having marched sixty-two miles in less than two days. From Manassas they advanced nearly to within cannon-shot of Washington.
August 28.
• Gen. POPE found Manassas Junction evacuated by the rebels.
• MCDOWELL’s column reached the rebels near Haymarket, and after a prolonged fight drove the entire force of JACKSON back.
• City Point, Va., entirely demolished by the Union gunboats.
August 29.
• BATTLE AT GROVETON, NEAR BULL RUN. The Corps of Gen. SIGEL engaged. The battle of this day ended in a victory for our arms, and at night our army rested near its dead and wounded. The engagement was furious, and the rebels were everywhere repulsed. Col. FLETCHER WEBSTER killed.
• Return of the Seventh Regiment to New-York.
August 30.
• SECOND BATTLE OF BULL RUN. Though our position was maintained during the day, Gen. POPE ordered, in the night, a general retreat. Our army fell back toward Centreville.
• Severe battle near Richmond. Ky. Our forces were outnumbered and fell back to Lexington.
• Fight at Bolivar, Tenn. Enemy repulsed.
SEPTEMBER.
September 1.
• Gens. KEARNY and I.S. STEVENS killed in a severe engagement near Chantilly, two miles from Fairfax Court-house, Va.
• Fredericksburgh evacuated by Gen. BURNSIDE’s army.
• Lexington, Ky., evacuated by our troops, who fell back on Covington. Great excitement in Louisville in anticipation of an attack.
• Battle of Button’s Lane, Tenn. The rebels, estimated to be 5,000 strong, were opposed to a Union force of only 800, under Col. DENNIS. After a fight of four hours, the rebels left Col. DENNIS in possession of the field.
September 2.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN assigned to the command of the fortifications of Washington and of the troops for the defence of the Capital.
• Business entirely suspended at Cincinnati and martial law proclaimed.
• Considerable fighting between Fairfax Courthouse and Washington; the rebels being held in check by Gens. HOOKER and FITZJOHN PORTER.
• Engagement at Plymouth, N.C., in which the rebels were thoroughly routed.
September 3.
• Gen. WHITE entered Harper’s Ferry with his force from Winchester, Va.
September 4.
• The rebel steamer Oreto ran the blockade into Mobile Bay, escaping the steamer Oneida in pursuit.
September 5.
• REBELS CROSSED THE POTOMAC INTO MARYLAND, near Point of Rocks, in the night, and marched to White Oak Springs, Md. Col. THOS. H. FORD took command of the forces on Maryland Heights. Forces were stationed at Solomon’s Gap and Sandy Hook, near Harper’s Ferry.
September 6.
• The rebels in Maryland. A force under Gen. HILL occupied Frederick City. BRADLEY T. JOHNSON was made rebel Provost-Marshal.
• Battle at Washington, N.C. Our troops captured four guns and many prisoners.
• The pirate Alabama captured and destroyed the whaler Ocmulgee.
September 7.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN left Washington, under orders to drive the enemy from Maryland, most of his force having preceded him. He established his headquarters at Rockville, Md.
• Schooner Starlight captured by the Alabama, near Flores.
• Bowling Green, Ky., occupied by our advance force under Gen. NEGLEY.
• Gen. POPE relieved of the command of the Army of Virginia, and assigned to that of the Northwest.
September 8.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN passed through Rockville. His main army followed him, his advance having preceded him some days.
• Fight at Poolesville, Md.
• Gen. LEE issued his celebrated proclamation to the people of Maryland.
• Gen. ROUSSEAU crossed the Cumberland River, moving North.
• Restrictions on travel rescinded, and arrests for disloyalty, & c., forbidden, except by direction of the Judge-Advocate at Washington.
September 9.
• Rebel cavalry attacked our force stationed at Williamsburgh, Va. We succeeded in holding the place.
• Evacuation of Fredericksburgh by the rebels commenced.
• The pirate Alabama captured the bark Ocean Rover and the schooner Weather Gauge, which, seeing the Ocean Rover in flames, had come to her assistance. She also captured and burned the bark Alert.
September 10.
• Gov. CURTIN issued an order calling on all able-bodied men in Pennsylvania to organize immediately for the defense of the State.
• Cavalry Reconnaissance in the direction of Sugar Loaf Mountain, Md.
• Large force of rebels at New-market, eight miles from Frederick, Md.
• Great excitement in Cincinnati; 3,000 laborers ordered to the trenches. The rebels, 10,000 strong, believed to be approaching the city.
• Attack by a rebel column on our troops near Gauley, Western Virginia.
• Stringent order against straggling issued.
• Skirmish near Covington, Ky.
September 11.
• Union troops occupied Newmarket, Md.
• Hagerstown occupied by the rebel troops, who capture a large quantity of flour and commence to tear up the railroad track.
• Gen. PLEASANTON’s Cavalry crossed the Monocacy near the Potomac, and found no enemy in force.
• Sugar-Loaf Mountain, Md., occupied by our forces.
• Rebels made a cavalry raid into Westminster.
• Gen. BUELL’s army hastening to the support of Nashville. The city being fortified.
• Bloomfield, Mo., captured by the rebels.
• Skirmishing along the entire line of the West Licking River.
• Maysville, Ky., taken by the rebel MORGAN.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN telegraphed from Rockville, Md., to Gen. HALLECK to have Col. MILES (at Harper’s Ferry) join him at once. Our forces stationed at Solomon’s Gap, near Harper’s Ferry, were driven in by the enemy. Col. FORD called on Col. MILES for reinforcements.
September 12.
• Gen. HOOKER’s forces arrived in Frederick, Md. They were received with the greatest enthusiasm by the inhabitants of the city.
• Gen. WHITE returned to Harper’s Ferry, where he remained till the surrender without taking command. Reinforcements sent to Col. FORD. Skirmishing commenced at Maryland Heights.
• Reconnaissances in force from Cincinnati found that the enemy had fallen back.
• Desperate fight on Elk River, Western Virginia.
September 13.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN reached Frederick.
• Further reinforcements sent to Col. FORD. The enemy made an attack on the crest of the hill (Maryland Heights.) Our troops retired to the breastworks. The One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Regiment N.Y.V. fled in confusion at the second attack. Col. MILES ordered Col. FORD to spike his guns and throw the heavy ones down the mountain in case he should be compelled to evacuate Maryland Heights. Gen. MCCLELLAN established his headquarters at Frederick City in the morning. Col. MILES sent to him informing him that he could not hold Harper’s Ferry more than forty-eight hours unless reinforced.
• The pirate Alabama captured and burned the whaler Benj. Tucker.
• Cavalry charge on the rebels near Middletown, Md. The rebel wagon train was so pushed that a large number were burned, to prevent their falling into our hands The rebel army threatening Cincinnati fell back beyond Florence.
September 14.
• BATTLE OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN, MD. After a very severe engagement, the corps of Gens. HOOKER and RENO carried Hagerstown Heights by storm. Gen. FRANKLIN’s Division engaged the enemy at Crampton’s Gap, and, after a hot contest, gained a complete success. Gen. RENO was killed. The rebels retreated in the night toward the Potomac, our army pressing them closely. Our loss in the battle of South Mountain was, in killed, wounded and missing, 2,325.
• Attack on Harper’s Ferry. At 2 o’clock A.M. Maryland Heights were abandoned. Col. D’UTASSY sent four companies to the Heights, who brought off four brass twelve-Sounders and a wagon-load of ammunition. Col. MILES’ message reached Gen. MCCLELLAN. The rebels attacked our extreme left on Bolivar Heights, and were repulsed by Gen. WHITE. In the night our cavalry escaped from Harper’s Ferry.
• At light the rebels attacked our forces at Munfordsville, Ky., with artillery. After a hard artillery fight, the rebel infantry attacked our troops, and were repulsed five successive times.
September 15.
• HARPER’s FERRY SURRENDERED by Col. MILES. The cavalry from Harper’s Ferry reached Greencastle, Penn., having captured an ammunition train belonging to the rebel Gen. LONGSTREET. Gen. PLEASANTON, of MCCLELLAN’s army, started after the enemy, and captured two of their guns. Gen. RICHARDSON’s Division came up with the enemy in large force near Sharpsburgh. During the night the greater part of our army arrived on the ground.
• Business in Cincinnati resumed.
September 16.
• BATTLE AT MUNFORDSVILLE, Ky., renewed; desperate fighting throughout the day.
• Terrific fighting near Sharpsburgh and Antietam Creek, Md. The day closed without any definite result.
September 17.
• BATTLE OF ANTIETAM. The fight of the previous day was renewed in the morning, and raged with the greatest fury. The battles of the 16th and 17th were the most furious and obstinate of the war, and the carnage on both sides was terrible. The rebels were defeated and our army left in possession of the field. Gen. MANSFIELD was killed and Gens. HOOKER and RICHARDSON (the latter mortally) wounded. Surgeon-Gen. HAMMOND telegraphed North for volunteer surgeons for the battle-field of Antietam. Our loss in the battle of Antietam was 12,469; estimated rebel loss in the battles of South Mountain and Antietam 25,542.
• Reconnaissance toward Leesburgh, Va. The rebel force driven back at the point of the bayonet.
• Cumberland Gap, Ky., evacuated by the Union forces under Gen. GEO. W. MORGAN, though almost completely surrounded by the enemy, he succeeded in saving his command, which reached Greenupsburgh, Oct. 3.
• At the time of the evacuation, the rebel Gen. STEVENSON was three miles in his rear; Gen. BRAGG on his left; MARSHALL on his right, and KIRBY SMITH in his front. Before leaving, MORGAN exploded the mines and magazines, and burned the store-houses at the Gap.
• A strong column of Gen. BRAGG’s force reinforced the rebels before Munfordsville, and the combined forces completely surrounded our troops. The latter, to the number of 4,600, were compelled to surrender at 6 A.M.
• Gen. MITCHEL took command of the Department of the South.
September 18.
• The rebels in front of Gen. MCCLELLAN abandoned their position in the night, leaving many of their dead and wounded on the field An expedition left Pensacola for Sabine Pass and Galveston.
• The rebel army from Maryland passed hastily through Sharpsburgh.
September 19.
• BATTLE OF IUKA, MISS. Gen. ROSENCRANS’ army marched 20 miles, driving in the rebel outposts for the last eight miles. He reached the front of Gen. PRICE’s army, advantageously posted in unknown woods, and opened the action at 4 P.M. The battle raged furiously till night closed in, when our army rested on the field from which the enemy retired during the night.
• A reconnoitering force from our army crossed the Potomac at Shepardstown, after a stout resistance on the part of the rebels. Four pieces of artillery were captured by our troops. By daylight the main body of rebels, with their artillery, had crossed the Potomac. Our cavalry entered Sharps burgh. The last of the rebels left Harper’s Ferry.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN reported that Gen. PLEASANTON was driving the enemy across the Potomac, and that our victory was complete.
September 20.
• A Reconnaissance in force across the Potomac, and though our forces were supported by artillery they were compelled to recross the Potomac after a stubborn resistance.
• The enemy crossed at Williamsport, but were driven back by the advance of our army and the town was afterwards occupied by us in strong force.
• Reconnaissance to Ashby’s Gap.
• Gov. CURTIN withdrew the Pennsylvania militia.
• Commander GEO. H. PREBLE, U.S.N., dismissed from the service for allowing the steamer Oreto to escape him at Mobile.
September 21.
• The armies of Gen. BUELL and Gen. BRAGG left Lebanon, Tenn., and Carthage respectively on their way toward Louisville. Our army traveled 361 miles; BRAGG’s army 206.
• BUELL’s army reached Northern Kentucky one day ahead of BRAGG’s.
• Arrival of the advance boats of of the expedition to Galveston off the bar of that city.
• The rebels driven out of Munfordsville, Ky.
• Raid of STEWART’s Cavalry in the direction of Williamsport.
• Reconnaissance beyond Chantilly, Va.
September 22.
• PRESIDENT LINCOLN’S EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION issued, declaring the slaves in any State in rebellion on Jan. 1, 1863, thenceforward and forever free.
• Battle of Wood Lake, Minnesota, with the Indians.
September 24.
• The Governors of the loyal States met in Convention at Altoona, Penn., seventeen States being represented.
• Great excitement in Louisville, Ky.; business suspended and all required to labor on the fortifications.
• Gen. BUELL arrived there at midnight.
• Engagement between the forces sent from New-Orleans and the rebels at Donaldsonville.
September 25.
• A portion of Commodore WILKES’ fleet arrived at St. George, Bermuda, and was notified to leave in twenty-four hours, which notice he disregarded, not leaving the port until Oct. 2.
• Reconnaissance to Warrenton Junction.
September 27.
• Augusta, Ky., 40 miles from Cincinnati, on the Ohio River, taken by rebel cavalry, who destroyed the place.
September 28.
• English steamer Sunbeam captured by the gunboats Stale of Georgia and Mystic while attempting to run the blockade at Wilmington, N.C.
September 29.
• Gen. BUELL ordered to turn over the command of his army to Maj. Gen. THOMAS.
• Maj. Gen. NELSON killed by Brig. Gen. JEFF. C. DAVIS, at the Galt House, Louisville, for an assault offered by the former.
• Gen. STAHL’s advance took Warrenton, Va.
• Death of Gen. I.P. RODMAN, wounded at Antietam.
• Retaliatory resolutions introduced in the rebel Congress, on account of the Emancipation Proclamation.
OCTOBER.
October 1.
• President LINCOLN arrived at Harper’s Ferry.
• Gen. HALLECK sent to Gen. MCCLELLAN, urging him to cross the Potomac at once, and give battle to the enemy.
• Gen. PLEASANTON crossed the Potomac on a Reconnaissance, near Shepherdstown. He met the rebels there, and drove them to Martinsburgh.
• Secretary STANTON transferred the Western gunboat fleet to the Navy Department.
• Gen. BUELL’s army left Louisville, Ky.
October 3.
• THE REBELS ATTACKED OUR ARMY NEAR CORINTH, MISS., early in the morning. The fight continued during the day, the rebels succeeding in capturing some of our guns, and driving our forces back three or four miles to the fortifications of the town.
• President LINCOLN reviewed the Army of the Potomac.
• Ship Brilliant, from New-York to London, burned by the pirate Alabama.
• Union Gen. GEO. W. MORGAN reached Greenupsburgh, Ky., 15 miles from Portsmouth, Ohio, with his forces from Cumberland Gap, having marched 219 miles in 16 days.
• Rebel Gen. JOHN MORGAN repulsed near Olive Hill, Ky.
October 4.
• After a quiet night, the attack on our troops at Corinth, Miss., was resumed early in the morning. The battle ended by a retreat of the whole rebel army. It was won with great loss on both sides.
• Gen. BUELL’s troops reached Bardstown, Ky., driving out the enemy’s rear guard of cavalry and artillery. The pursuit was continued toward Springfield.
October 5.
• Galveston, Texas, occupied by the Union forces.
• The rebels, retreating from Corinth, reached the Hatchee River, where they were attached and lost two batteries and some prisoners.
October 6.
• Gen. HALLECK peremptorily ordered Gen. MCCLELLAN “to cross the Potomac and give battle to the enemy, or drive him south. Your army must move now, while the roads are good.”
• English mail steamer Merlin brought to off the harbor of St. George, by a shot from one of Commodore WILKES’ fleet. Gunboat Tascarora sailed from Fayal, in search of the Alabama.
• Expedition to destroy the salt works of the rebels, on the coast of Florida.
October 7.
• Gen. BUELL’s army arrived within two miles of Perryville, Ky., where the enemy were found to be in force.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s order, calling attention to the President’s emancipation proclamation, and explaining the duties of the officers and soldiers.
• Reconnaissance to the Rappahannock, through Centreville and Manassas Junction.
October 8.
• BATTLE OF PERRYVILLE, KY. The battle was severe, commencing at 12 1/2 P.M. and continuing furiously until dark. The rebel army was under command of Gen. BRAGG, the different divisions being commanded by Gens. POLK, CHEATHAM, BUCKNER and ANDERSON. The battle was commenced by the rebels furiously assaulting our army. Gen. BRAGG styled it in his report the severest and most desperately contested engagement within his knowledge. He acknowledged a loss in killed, wounded and missing, of 2,500.
• Among his wounded were Brig.-Gens. WOOD, CLEBURN and BROWN. Gen. HARDEE was engaged in the battle, commanding the rebel left wing. The rebels were everywhere repulsed, but not without some momentary advantages on the left. The Union Gens. JACKSON and TERRELL were killed. Gen. ROUSSEAU was in the thickest of the fight and covered himself with glory. The battle did not accomplish what was hoped, as the enemy had escaped by the morning after the fight.
October 9.
• Gen. GRANT recalled Gen. ROSECRANS from the pursuit of the rebels defeated at Corinth.
• The rebel army under Gen. BRAGG, was attacked at Chaplin Creek on its retreat. A short but sharp fight ensued, when the rebels broke and fled.
• STUART’s cavalry started on their expedition to Pennsylvania. The force consisted of 1,800 cavalry, 4 pieces of horse artillery, under command of Gen. HAMPTON and Cols. W.H. LEE and JONES. The troops rendezvoused at Darksville at 12 M., marched thence to the vicinity of Hedgeville, where they encamped for the night.
October 10.
• REBEL INVASION OF PENNSYLVANIA. STUART’s rebel cavalry reached Chambersburgh Penn., about 6 P.M., having crossed the Potomac at McCoy’s, between Hancock and Williamsport.
• Gen. ROSECRANS returned from the pursuit of PRICE’s army, reporting it dispersed, demoralized, and incapable of further mischief.
• Ship Tonawanda captured by the pirate Alabama, and released on giving bonds for $80,000, payable to the President of the Confederate States thirty days after the declaration of peace. Ship Manchester and brig Dunkirk also captured.
October 11.
• The rebel STUART’s cavalry destroyed two warehouses at Chambersburgh, containing military stores; also the buildings of the Cumberland Valley Railroad, including the machine shops; the rolling stock collected there was also destroyed. They also burned the railroad bridge at Scotland, five miles from Chambersburgh.
• Gen. WOOL and staff arrived at Harrisburgh, Penn., and assumed the command and direction of the troops for the defence of the State.
• Rebels in large force near Nashville, Tenn. They sent a flag of truce, demanding the surrender of the city, which was refused by Gen. NEGLEY, in command of the post.
• Great battle between Harrisburgh and Danville, Ky., in which the rebels were defeated, after which they retreated to Camp Dick Robinson.
• The whole rebel army engaged in the battle of Perryville, reached Bryantsville, Ky., our army slowly following.
• Skirmish near Lagrange, Ark., the rebels defeated.
October 12.
• STUART’s rebel cavalry occupied Leesburgh, Va., returning from their raid into Pennsylvania. Gen. PLEASANTON passed through Frederick City, Md., in pursuit. The rebels passed a few miles from Frederick, and effected their escape by crossing the Potomac at White’s Ferry. Here the chase ended, our troops having met the rebels near the mouth of the Monocacy. The rebels were clothed in captured National uniforms, which misled our soldiers, who were received, when in close proximity, by a fire of carbines and pistols. Gen. PLEASANTON’s cavalry marched 90 miles in 24 hours.
October 13.
• Gen. BRAGG’s army evacuated Camp Dick Robinson, Ky.
October 14.
• Our whole force moved in pursuit of BRAGG’s army early in the morning. During the day some skirmishing took place.
• The first donation of $100,000 by San Francisco, received by the Sanitary Commission.
October 15.
• Gen. STAHL left Centreville, with cavalry and artillery, to find the rebel Gen. STUART. He had some skirmishes, but nothing decisive resulted there from.
• Heavy fight between Lexington and Richmond, Ky., in which the rebels were repulsed.
• Our army reached Crab Orchard, Ky., after severe skirmishing.
• Bark Lamplighter, of Boston, captured and burned by the pirate Alabama.
October 16.
• Advance of Gen. MCCLELLAN’s army from Harper’s Ferry.
• Pursuit of BRAGG’s army in Kentucky virtually abandoned.
• British steamer Wachuta captured, after an all-day’s chase, of the coast of North Carolina.
• A Reconnaissance up the Apalachicola River, Fla. The expedition captured a sloop laden with cotton.
October 17.
• Return of Gen. HANCOCK’s expedition to Boliver Heights. They found the enemy in force at Brucetown, 5 miles from Winchester, Va., and captured 1,500 bushels of wheat.
• HUMPHREY’s division, which crossed near Shepherdstown, returned after finding the enemy in considerable force and after some artillery skirmishing.
October 18.
• The guerrilla Chief MORGAN dashed into Lexington, Ky., at the head of 1,500 troops and took 125 prisoners, killing six of our men.
• Federal steamer fired into by the rebels thirty miles below Memphis.
• Steamer Gladiator also attacked 25 miles below and set on fire by the rebels; the flames were extinguished.
October 19.
• The rebel JOHN MORGAN, left Lawrenceburgh, Ky., with about 1,200 men, closely pursued by Gen. DUMONT.
• Col. MILLER, of Gen. NEGLEY’s army, had a brush with the enemy, near Nashville, Tenn., and captured several.
• On the 18th and 19th, a lage force of rebels under EWELL and JACKSON entered Martinsburgh, and completed the destruction of the railroad property there, including the depot and workshops.
• A powerful iron steamer ran the blockade at Charleston, S.C., (on the night of the 18th).
October 20.
• At 3 o’clock in the morning, 300 or 400 of MORGAN’s men, captured a Union train of 81 wagons, (51 of which were loaded,) near Bardstown, Ky. MORGAN then went toward Bardstown and captured another train at daylight.
October 21.
• Expedition from MCCLELLAN’s Army to intercept a force of rebel cavalry foraging in London County, Va. The Expedition was successful.
• Dashing Reconnaissance in the direction of Leesburgh, Va. Skirmishing with the rebel cavalry.
• Gen. JEFF. C. DAVIS released from arrest, and ordered to report for duty at Cincinnati.
• An expedition, consisting of 4,000 or 5,000 men, with artillery, and fifteen transports and gunboats, left Hilton Head for a Reconnaissance along the Charleston and Savannah Railroad.
• Successful attack on a rebel force near Nashville, Tenn.
October 22.
• The Governor of Kentucky called on the people of Louisville to rally for the defense of the city.
• HUMPHREY MARSHALL’s force retreated from Mount Stirling toward East Tennessee.
• Gen. BRAGG’s rebel army moved through Cumberland Gap.
• Our forces attacked Pocotaligo and Coosawhatchie, S.C. They succeeded in reaching the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, and did it some damage. The force was engaged in desperate fight with the rebels. The expedition was not entirely successful in accomplishing its mission.
• A force sent on a Reconnaissance in the neighborhood of Martinsburgh had some skirmishing with the enemy, and captured a few prisoners. Return of GEARY’s expedition, which left on the 21st, to Harper’s Ferry.
• Battle at Maysville, in the northwest corner of Arkansas, (second battle of Pea Ridge). Our forces, under Gen. BLUNT, attacked the enemy, supposed to be 6,000 to 7,000 strong, end after an hour of fighting totally routed them, with a loss on the part of the rebels of all their artillery, a battery of six pounders, a large number of horses and their equipments. By this battle all the organized forces of the enemy were driven back to the Valley of the Arkansas.
October 23.
• Dashing fight at Waverley, Tenn., between a small force of rebels and Union soldiers, in which the rebels were defeated and lost many more than we did.
• Skirmishing in Kentucky with MORGAN’s guerrillas.
• Ship Lafayette, of New-Haven, captured and burned by the pirate Alabama.
• English schooner Francis captured.
October 24.
• GEN. BUELL REMOVED FROM THE COMMAND OF THE ARMY IN KENTUCKY, and Gen. ROSECRANS assigned to the command.
• Gen. H.S. GRANT reported a skirmish at Brownsville, Tenn., in which the rebels were defeated with a loss of 40 prisoners and some property.
• Difficulty with the coal miners, in Pennsylvania, relative to the draft, adjusted.
• Skirmish with MORGAN’s guerrillas at Morgantown, Ky.; 16 rebels captured.
• English steamer Scolia, loaded with arms, powder, & c., captured at Bull’s Bay, S.C.
• Gen. WEITZEL’s Brigade, 5,000 strong, left Carrollton above New-Orleans. The expedition was made up of transports and gunboats.
October 25.
• Slight cavalry skirmishing at Manassas Junction and Bristol Station.
• Our forces routed the rebels at Greenville, Mo.
• Gen. SHERMAN issued a stringent order for the Government of Memphis.
October 26.
• Heavy rain, and rise in the Potomac.
• Advance of MCCLELLAN’s army commenced.
• Gen BURNSIDE’s Division crossed into Virginia.
• Gen. PLEASANTON’s cavalry reached Purcellsville.
• MCCLELLAN established his Headquarters in Virginia.
• Schooner Crenshaw, of New-York, captured and burned by the pirate Alabama.
• Gen. WEITZEL’s Expedition from New-Orleans landed at Donaldsonville, and his troops took up the line of march. A sharp engagement ensued, in which we took 268 prisoners and I piece of artillery.
October 27.
• Gen. JEFF. C. DAVIS indicted for killing Gen. NELSON.
• 1,500 rebels attacked and defeated at Putnam’s Ferry, Mo.
• English steamer Anglia, of Liverpool, captured four miles inside of Bull’s Bay, S.C. She was loaded with arms, ammunition’ and other contraband goods.
• Rebel army under Gens. ECHOLS, FLOYD and JENKINS retreated from Charlestown, Va.
• Battle at Labadieville, on Bayou La Fourohe, La. The rebels were put to flight after a short resistance.
October 28.
• Our troops occupied Halltown, Va., and our pickets extended beyond there.
• Gen. PRICE’s, pickets driven from Grand Junction.
• The Union troops, under Brig.-Gen. HERRON, attacked a rebel camp four miles, from Fayetteville, Ark. After a sharp engagement of an hour the enemy were completely routed, leaving all their camp equipage and a few wagons. Gen. HERRON pursued the rebels several miles into the Boston Mountains.
• Skirmish at Snicker’s Gap, Va.
• Bark Laurietta captured and burned by the pirate Alabama.
October 29.
• Skirmish between Gen. WALKER’s (rebel) force and Gen. BAYARD’s Cavalry, at Upperville and Paris, Va.
• Great fire at Harper’s Ferry; twenty-six cars loaded with hay were simultaneously in flames. A part of the railroad bridge was destroyed.
• Gen. U.S. GRANT reported that the guerrillas at Clarkson, Mo., had been attacked, routed, and utterly dispersed.
• Rebels at Snicker’s Gap, Va., in force.
• Gen. RICHARDSON’s Division, of MCCLELLAN’s army, passes Snicker’s Gap to Paris, Va.
• Brig Baron de Castine captured by the pirate Alabama, and released on giving bonds for $6,000, payable to the President of the Confederate States thirty days after peace shall be declared.
• The corps d’armee under Brig.-Gen. Cox reached Charlestown, Va. On their entrance they were greeted with cheers and other demonstrations of favor.
October 30.
• Gen. ROSECRANS and staff arrived at Louisville, Ky.
• Gen. O.M. MITCHELL, Commander of the Department of the South, died of yellow fever at Beaufort, S.C.
• English brig Hermasa captured.
October 31.
• Skirmish with STUART’s cavalry at Marysville, Va.
• The advance guard of the column for the relief of Nashville passed through Bowling Green, Ky.
NOVEMBER.
November 1.
• Artillery fight between Gen. PLEASONTON’s force and the rebels at Phillimont, Va., lasting five hours.
• Grand ovation to Gen. FREMONT in St. Louis.
• Rebel steamboat A.B. Ligur captured near New-Orleans.
November 2.
• The artillery fight at Phillimont renewed and the rebels fell back.
• Additional force of our troops took possession of Snicker’s Gap, Va.
• Gen. FOSTER’s expedition from Newbern took up its line of march.
• Schooner Alice captured by the Alabama.
November 3.
• Gen. PLEASONTON’s Cavalry occupied Upperville, Va., after a spirited engagement with the enemy of about four hours.
• Gen. STAHL’s Cavalry drove the enemy from Thoroughfare Gap, Va., which was afterward occupied by Gen. SCHURZ.
• Maj.-Gen. J.B. RICHARDSON died at Sharpsburgh, Md., from wounds received in the battle of Antietam.
• Commodore W.D. PORTER offered the merchants of New-York to take the clipper ship Dreadnought and pursue the pirate Alabama.
• Piedmont, Va., occupied by our cavalry, under Gens. PLEASANTON and AVERILL.
• Maj. REID SANDERS, C.S.A., captured on the coast of Virginia, endeavoring to escape with rebel dispatches.
• Reconnaissances through Snicker’s Gap, Va. The object fully accomplished, after some severe skirmishing and brave charges made by our troops.
November 4.
• Ashby’s Gap taken possession of by Union troops.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s headquarters at Upperville, Va.
• Gen. GRANT, with several divisions of the army from Bolivar, Tenn., and Corinth, Miss., marched into Lagrange, Miss., the rebels, under Gen. EARL VAN DORN, being in large force at Holly Springs, Miss.
• Spirited engagement, at Markham, Va.
• Salt works at Kingsbury, Ga. destroyed, in effecting which our forces were attacked.
November 5.
• Gen. PLEASANTON reached a point near Chester Gap, Va., before reaching which he routed STUART’s cavalry.
• Engagement at New-Baltimore, Va.
• Two vessels laden with cotton captured in Nassau River.
• Skirmishing near Nashville, Tenn.
November 6.
• Death of Brig.-Gen. CHAS. D. JAMESON.
• Warrenton, Va., occupied by advance of the Army of the Potomac.
• Death of Commodore G.J. PENDERGRAST, U.S.N.
• Advance of Gen. MCCOOK’s corps arrived at Nashville.
• English schooner Dart captured.
November 7.
• GEN. MCCLELLAN REMOVED FROM THE COMMAND OF THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, AND THE COMMAND TURNED OVER TO GEN. BURNSIDE.
• Gen. BAYARD attacked at Rappahannock Station, Va.
• Expedition up Sapelo Sound, Ga., partly made up of negro troops.
November 8.
• Gen. PLEASANTON engaged in a skirmish near Little Washington, Va.
• Gen. BAYARD held the railroad bridge across the Rappahannock.
• Cavalry charge on the rebels near Gaines’ Cross Roads.
• Ship T.B. Wales captured by the Alabama.
November 9.
• Gen. BUTLER sequestered the property in the district of La Fourche, La., and declared all sales made by disloyal persons, since Sept. 18, void.
• Brilliant cavalry dash of BAYARD’s men at Fredericksburgh.
November 10.
• Gen. ROSECRANS arrived at Nashville.
• Gen. HALLECK ordered to their regiments all absent officers.
• Gen. PLEASANTON’s pickets attacked near Amosville, Va.
• Great Union demonstration in Memphis.
November 11.
• Gen. GRANT reported a victory at Garrettsburgh, Ky.
• Gen. ROSECRANS’ command arrived at Fort Donelson.
November 12.
• Gen. HALLECK visited the Army of the Potomac.
• Gen. GRANT’s advance reached Holly Springs.
November 13.
• Skirmish near White Sulphur Springs, Va.
• Holly Springs occupied by the Union troops, after a slight skirmish.
November 15.
• A.J. HAMILTON appointed Military Governor of Texas.
• Artillery fight near Fayetteville, Va.
• Warrenton, Va., evacuated by our troops.
November 16.
• Gen. BURNSIDE’s headquarters moved to Catlett’s Station, Va.
November 17.
• Artillery engagement near Fredericksburgh, Va.
• JEFF. DAVIS ordered retaliation for the execution of 10 rebels in Missouri.
• The Alabama arrived at Martinique. The United States frigate San Jacinto arrived at the same place, but immediately went outside the harbor, to await the appearance of the Alabama.
November 18.
• The Army of the Potomac reached Falmouth, opposite Fredericksburgh, Va.
• Skirmish at Rural Hill, Va.
• Escape of the Alabama from Martinique.
November 19.
• Stuart’s rebel cavalry near Warrenton Junction.
• Our pickets driven in at Suffolk, Va.
November 20.
• Skirmish at Charlestown, Va.
November 21.
• Gen. SUMNER demands the surrender of Fredericksburgh.
November 22.
• The War Department issued an order releasing persons who had been imprisoned for resisting the draft, discouraging enlistments, & c., and also paroling persons who had been sent from the rebel States by the Military Commanders or Governors.
• Suicide of Brig.-Gen. FRANCIS E. PATTERSON.
November 24.
• Scouting parties left camp near Charlestown, Va., and marched 210 miles in 70 hours.
November 25.
• Rebel raid into Poolesville, Md.
• Attack of the rebels on Newbern, N.C.
November 26.
• The President visited Gen. BURNSIDE at Belleplaine, Va. Successful Reconnaissance from Bolivar Heights.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s force left Memphis.
• The rebel camp at Cold Knob, Va., surprised.
November 27.
• Skirmish near Nashville, Tenn.
• Railroad from Aquia Creek to Falmouth, Va., completed.
• Reconnaissance in force by General STAHL’s troops.
November 28.
• BATTLE OF CANE HILL, ARKANSAS. Gen. STAHL’s force drove in the rebel pickets at Ashby’s Gap.
• Gen. BURNSIDE arrived in Washington from the Army of the Potomac.
• General GRANT’s army struck their tents and marched in in the direction of Holly Springs.
November 29.
• Gen. STAHL’s force reached Perryville, Va., via Snicker’s Gap, where they had a skirmish with the enemy, whom they completely routed.
November 30.
• Steamer Vanderbilt returned from a cruise after the Alabama.
DECEMBER.
December 1.
• Tallahatchie, Miss., evacuated by the rebels.
December 2.
• Party of Union cavalry surprised and captured at King George Court-house, Va.
• Fight at Suffolk, Va.
• The rebels desert their fortifications at Abbeville, Miss., and the place was occupied by the cavalry of Gen. GRANT’s army.
December 3.
• Surrender, of Winchester, Va., to Gen. GEARY; the place occupied.
December 4.
• Gen. BANKS and part of his expedition sailed from New-York.
December 5.
• Cavalry engagement near Coffeeville, Miss.
December 6.
• Attack on our force at Cane Hill, Ark. the rebels repulsed.
December 7.
• BATTLE OF FAYETTESVILLE OR PRAIRIE GROVE, ARK., Union victory.
• Battle with MORGAN’s force at Hartsville, Tenn. A Union brigade captured by the rebels, who were afterward put to flight.
• Capture of the California steamer Ariel by the pirate Alabama. The Ariel was released on giving bonds for $228,000, payable 30 days after the recognition of the Southern Confederacy.
December 8.
• The President ordered the execution of thirty-nine Indians in Minnesota, to take place of Dec. 19.
• Steamer Lake City destroyed by the rebels at Concordia, Ark.
December 9.
• Sharp fight at Lavergne, Tenn.
December 10.
• The rebels appeared in force near Nashville, driving in our pickets.
• Gunboat fight at Port Royal, Va.
• Plymouth, N.C. destroyed by the rebels.
December 11.
• SHELLING OF FREDERICKSBURGH. The place occupied by our troops, who crossed in the face of a terrible fire. The city partially destroyed.
• Successful Reconnaissance from Nashville.
• Arrival of two of Gen. BANKS’ vessels, disabled, at Port Royal, S.C.
December 12.
• Crossing of our army at Fredericksburgh continued. Artillery duel between the two forces.
• Skirmish near Suffolk, Va.
• Destruction of the gunboat Cuiro on the Yazoo River by a rebel torpedo.
December 13.
• BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURGH, fought back of the town. Gen. BAYARD killed.
• Battle of Zuni, N.C.
• Gen. FOSTER attacked Kinston, N.C.
December 14.
• Another raid of rebel cavalry into Poolesville, Md.
• Firing on the rebel pickets or James Island, N.C.
• Kinston, N.C., occupied by Gen. FOSTER’s Army.
• Rebel Saltworks at Yellville, Ark., destroyed by Capt. BIRCH.
• Gen. N.P. BANKS arrived at New-Orleans with his Expedition.
December 15.
• FREDERICKSBURGH EVACUATED BY OUR ARMY in the night. BURNSIDE’s Army crossed to Falmouth.
• Gen, BUTLER issued his farewell address to his army.
December 16.
• Letter of Gen. BURNSIDE, assuming the responsibility of the defeat at Fredericksburgh, written.
• Rebel raid on Occoquan, Va.
• Gen. BUTLER transferred the command of the Department of the Gulf to Gen. BANKS. Gen. BANKS issued his General Order assuming command of the Department of the Gulf, including Texas.
• An expedition left New-Orleans for Baton Rouge, La.
December 17.
• Baton Rouge recaptured.
December 22.
• Address of the President to the Army of the Potomac in regard to the occurrences at Fredericksburgh.
December 23.
• Report of the Congressional Committee, on the battle of Fredericksburgh.
• Gen. BURNSIDE returned to his army, from Washington.
• Winchester, Va., reoccupied by Union forces under Col. KEYES.
• JEFF. DAVIS issued a Retaliatory Proclamation, especially directed against Gen. BUTLER and his officers.
December 24.
• Severe skirmish on the Blackwater.
December 25.
• The Rebels, under Gens. FLOYD and MARSHALL, reported to have reentered Eastern Kentucky through Pound Gap.
• Glasgow, Ky., captured by the rebel MORGAN.
December 26.
• Execution of 38 Indians in Minnesota.
December 27.
• A party of rebel cavalry repulsed at Dumfries, Va.
• JOHN MORGAN and his guerrillas attacked a Union force at Elizabethtown, Ky.
December 28.
• Bridge on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad destroyed by MORGAN.
• New-Madrid evacuated.
• Unsuccessful attempt of the rebel Gen. STUART to capture the depot of stores at Fairfax Station, Va.
• Van Buren, Ark., captured and the rebels put to flight.
1863
BATTLE RECORD FOR 1863.
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE OF THE EVENTS OF THE YEAR.
OUR VICTORIES AND DEFEATS BY LAND AND SEA.
THE GREAT BATTLES AND EVENTS OF THE YEAR.
DECEMBER 31, 1863
JANUARY.
January 1.
• THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION OF PRESDENT LINCOLN, DECLARING SLAVES IN THE INSURRECTIONARY STATES AND DISTRICTS FOREVER AND HENCEFORWARD FREE, issued.
• The battle of Murfreesboro, Tenn., commenced Dec. 31, 1862, continued. The engagement opened at dawn by Gen. ROSECRANS. The battle was hotly contested, and the losses great on both sides.
• The rebel guerrilla MORGAN defeated in Kentucky.
• Emancipation Jubilee of the negroes at Hilton Head, S.C.
• The rebel Gen. FORREST defeated at Hunt’s Cross Roads, Tenn., by Gen. SULLIVAN.
• Galveston, Texas, recaptured by the rebels, who also took the steamer Harriet Lane. The steamer Westfield was blown up by its commander to prevent it from falling into the hands of the rebels.
• Gen. BUTLER and Staff arrived in New-York City from New-Orleans.
• Charges preferred against the New-York Police Commissioners for illegal action in making arrests for treason, & c.
January 2.
• Battle of Murfreesboro, Tenn., continued, the rebels being repulsed in an attack on our left wing.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s force, operating against Vicksburgh, was withdrawn from the Yazoo River.
• Dumfries entered by STUART’s cavalry, who captured some public stores, & c.
• Gen. BURNSIDE returned to the Army of the Potomac from Washington.
January 3.
• The rebels retreated from the battle-field of Murfreesboro.
• Gov. SEYMOUR, of New-York, appointed this day for the trial of the New-York Police Commissioners.
• Arrest of ISAAC N. COOK, in Cincinnati, as a defaulting Paymaster.
• Arrival in New-York of a cavalry company from California.
• Our forces at Moorefield, West Va., attacked.
• The boat containing a missing portion of the Monitor’s crew picked up on Hatteras Shoals.
• Department of the East, including the New-England States and the State of New-York, created, and Gen. JOHN E. WOOL assigned to its command.
January 5.
• Murfreesboro, Tenn., occupied by a National force.
• J.P. USHER, of Indiana, nominated as Secretary of the Interior.
• Gen. MILROY, in Western Virginia, issued a proclamation notifying the people of Winchester and neighborhood of the provisions of the President’s Emancipation Proclamation.
January 6.
• Gen. CARTER’s Union force reached Manchester, Ky., on its return from a raid into East Tennessee, where they destroyed bridges and took a number of prisoners.
January 7.
• Successful reconnaissance of Union troops from Yorktown in the neighborhood of West Point, Va.
January 8.
• Springfield, Mo., attacked by the rebels.
• Rebel camp at Huntoon’s Mills, near Fort Pillow, surprised.
• Steamer Mussulman burned by guerrillas near Memphis, Tenn.
January 9.
• Order issued by Gen. HALLECK, thanking Gen. ROSECRANS and his army for the victory of Murfreesboro.
• Return of the reconnoitering expedition from West Point, Va., to Fort Monroe.
• The rebels repulsed at Providence Church, on the Blackwater, Va.
January 10.
• Cavalry skirmish at Catlett’s Station, Va.
• Battle at Arkansas Post commenced.
• English steamer Rising Dawn captured.
• Brig J.P. Ellicott captured by the privateer Retribution.
January 11.
• Fort Hindman and Arkansas, forts on the Arkansas River, surrendered by the rebels.
• Fight at Huntsville, Mo.
• Union gunboat Hatteras sunk by the Alabama, on the coast of Texas.
• Gen. WEITZEL crossed Berwick Bay and attacked the rebel gunboat Cotton in the Bayou Teche.
January 12.
• Gen. JOHN E. WOOL assumed command of the Department of the East headquarters at New-York City.
• JEFF. DAVIS’ Message sent to the rebel Congress.
• Gen. JOHN A. MCCLERNAND congratulated his army on the capture of Arkansas Post.
January 13.
• Peace resolutions introduced into the New-Jersey Legislature.
January 14.
• Col. JAMES W. WALL elected United States Senator from New-Jersey.
• Engagement at the Bayou Teche, La.
• Lieut.-Commander (Union) THOS. MCKEON BUCHANAN killed.
January 15.
• Union gunboat Columbia destroyed by rebels near Wilmington, N.C.
January 16.
• Rebel privateer Oreto ran the blockade out of Mobile.
January 17.
• Steamer Vanderbilt arrived at Fortress Monroe after an unsuccessful cruise after the Alabama.
• Rebel privateer Oreto destroyed the brig Estelle.
January 18.
• Gen. HUNTER arrived at Hilton Head to take command of the Department of the South.
• A large fleet sailed from Napoleon and Memphis for Young’s Point and Milliken’s Bend, near Vicksburgh, on this and the following days.
January 20.
• Gen. BURNSIDE announced to the Army of the Potomac that it was about to meet the enemy again.
• Gen. HUNTER assumed command of the Department of the South.
• The rebel privateer Alabama arrived at Jamaica.
January 21.
• The expedition under Gen. GRANT, from Napoleon, arrived at Young’s Point, nine miles from Vicksburgh.
• Engagement near Sabine Pass, Galveston, Texas.
• Gunboat Morning Light and the bark Velocity, captured by the rebels off Sabine Pass, Texas.
January 24.
• Gen. BURNSIDE relieved of the command of the Army of the Potomac, and the command assigned to Gen. HOOKER.
January 25.
• Cars on the railroad, between Nashville and Franklin, Tenn., destroyed by rebels.
• The iron-clad Montauk arrived off Fort McAllister, Ga.
January 26.
• Gen. BURNSIDE turned over the command of the Army of the Potomac to Gen. HOOKER.
• Gen. HOOKER, in general orders, assumed command.
• Gen. W.B. FRANKLIN, having been relieved of his command in the Army of the Potomac, took leave of his division.
• Gen. SUMNER relieved of his command.
• Bark Golden Rule burned by the Alabama.
• Ship Washington captured by the Alabama.
January 27.
• Gen. HOOKER visited Washington.
• THURLOW WEED took leave of the Albany Evening Journal.
• Cavalry skirmish at Middleburgh, Va.
• Gen. BURNSIDE arrived in New-York.
• A.D. BOILEAU, proprietor of the Philadelphia Evening Journal, arrested by order of the Government.
• Bombardment of Fort McAllister, on the Ogeechee River, Ga., by the Montauk.
• Brig Chastelaine burned by the Alabama.
January 29.
• Excitement in Philadelphia over the arrest of the editor of the Evening Journal.
• Charge of Judge LUDLOW to the Grand Jury on the subject.
• English steamer Princess Royal captured off Charleston, S.C.
January 30.
• Victory of Gen. CORCORAN over the rebel Gen. ROGER A. PRYOR’s force near the Blackwater, the engagement being called the Battle of the Deserted House.
• Union gunboat Isaac Smith, captured by the rebels in the Stono River, S.C.
January 31.
• The fleet blockading Charleston, S.C., attacked by the rebel iron-clads Chicora and Palmetto State.
• Gen. BEAUREGARD and Flag-Officer D.N. INGRAHAM (rebel), formally declared by proclamation that the blockade of Charleston, S.C., was raised.
• Union gunboat Mercedita surrendered.
• J.P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of State of the Confederate States, gave official notice that the blockade was broken.
• Schooner Hanover destroyed by the Retribution.
FEBRUARY.
February 1.
• Franklin, Tenn., occupied by Federal forces.
• A.J. BOILEAU, editor of the Philadelphia Evening Journal, released from Fort McHenry.
• Fort McAllister, Ga., again attacked.
• Gunboat New Era attacked Island No. 10.
February 2.
• A bill providing for the employment of negro soldiers passed the United States House of Representatives.
• Rebel camp at Middletown, Tenn., surprised.
• Department of Washington, under command of Gen. HEINTZELMAN, constituted.
• The Union ram Queen of the West ran past the rebel batteries at Vicksburgh, and attacked the rebel steamer City of Vicksburgh.
February 3.
• The rebels repulsed in an attack on our forces at Dover, Tenn., by Union gunboats.
• Fort Donelson, Tenn., invested by the rebels.
February 4.
• Engagement at Fort McAllister, Ga.
February 5.
• Our forces repulsed a rebel attack on Fort Donelson, Tenn.
• Union ram Queen of the West returned from her expedition past the batteries of Vicksburgh, having destroyed three rebel transports and an immense quantity of rebel stores.
February 6.
• Raid of Union cavalry to Middleburgh and Aldie, Va.
February 7.
• Reconnaissance from the right wing of the Army of the Potomac.
• Engagement near Williamsburgh, Va.
February 8.
• Our forces entered Lebanon, Tenn., capturing a number of rebels.
February 9.
• Collision between the transport North Star and the steamer Ella Warley near Sandy Hook.
• Reconnoitering expedition, under Col. WYNDHAM, left Centreville, Va.
February 10.
• Gen. ROSECRANS issued an order declaring that all rebel soldiers found in National uniforms should not be treated as prisoners of war, or receive quarter in battle.
• Official denial that the blockade at Charleston, S.C., had been raised.
February 11.
• Secretary SEWARD transmitted to the Senate a communication relative to the visit of the French Minister to Richmond.
February 12.
• Passage of the National Currency bill by the Senate.
• Slight skirmish near Smithfield, Va.
• Great fire at Norfolk, Va.
• Ship Jacob Bell, from China, captured and burned by the Florida.
• Rebel fort on Pelican Island, near Galveston, Texas, shelled by the Brooklyn.
February 13.
• A Court of Inquiry, relative to cotton and other traffic on the Mississippi River, instituted.
• Skirmish near Bolivar, Tenn.
• Gunboat Indianola ran the blockade at Vicksburgh.
February 15.
• Slight skirmish near Nolinsville, Ky.
February 16.
• The Conscription bill passed by the United States Senate.
• Brig.-Gen. THOS. G. STEVENSON placed in arrest by Gen. HUNTER, at Port Royal, for objecting to fight in company with negroes.
February 18.
• Gen. BEAUREGARD issued a proclamation announcing that an attack on Charleston and Savannah would probably soon be made.
• Bombardment of Vicksburgh, Miss.
February 19.
• Brig Emily Fisher captured and bonded by the privateer Retribution.
February 20.
• The National Currency Bill passed the House of Representatives.
• United States steamer Alabama left St. Thomas in search of the Florida.
• The Vanderbilt left St. Thomas on a cruise for privateers.
February 21.
• The pirate Alabama burned the bark Olive Jane.
February 22.
• Richmond, Ky., occupied by rebel cavalry.
• Tuscumbia, Ala., reached by a Union cavalry force.
• Ship Golden Eagle destroyed by the Alabama.
February 23.
• Bill authorizing the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus passed by the United States Senate.
February 24.
• The iron-clad gunboat Indianola captured by the rebels near Vicksburgh.
• Some shells thrown into Galveston, Texas, by the Brooklyn.
February 25.
• Cavalry skirmish at Piedants Farm, Va.
• Cavalry fight near Strasburgh, Va. Our forces defeated.
• Privateer Retribution arrived at Nassau.
• Capture of the Anglo-rebel steamer Peterhoff by the Vanderbilt, near St. Thomas.
• An expedition through Yazoo Pass, near Vicksburgh, left Moon Lake.
February 26.
• Death of Col. D.D. TOMPKINS.
February 27.
• Col. WYNDHAM’s cavalry left Centreville, Va., on a reconnaissance, afterward reaching Falmouth, Va.
• Brig.-Gen. JOHN COCHRANE, having resigned his commission, took leave of his corps of the Army of the Potomac.
• JEFF. DAVIS issued a proclamation appointing March 27 as Fast Day in the Confederate States.
• Gen. STEVENSON released from arrest by Gen. HUNTER.
• Three Anglo-rebel steamers, the Georgiana, the Britinnia and the Gertrude, arrived at Nassau.
• A sham monitor sent by Admiral PORTER past the rebel batteries at Vicksburgh.
• Schooner Palmetto captured by the Alabama.
February 28.
• President LINCOLN called an extra session of the Senate.
• Col. WYNDHAM’s cavalry arrived at Falmouth, Va.
• The rebel steamer Nashville destroyed by the Montauk in Ogeechee River, Ga.
• The Yazoo Pass expedition reached the Coldwater River, twelve miles from Moon Lake, through Yazoo Pass.
MARCH.
March 1.
• Rebels defeated at Bradyville, Tenn.
March 2.
• Ship John A. Park captured and burned by the Alabama.
March 3.
• Act amendatory to the Tax Law passed both Houses of Congress, as amended by a Conference Committee.
• An expedition left Belle Blain, Va., for Northumberland County, Va.
• Gunboat Indianola destroyed by the rebels.
March 4.
• Congress adjourned.
• Skirmish near Franklin, Tenn.
• Skirmish at “Skeet,” N.C.
March 5.
• Severe engagement near Springville, Tenn.
• Brig.-Gen. H.M. NAGLEE relieved of his command by Gen. HUNTER.
• Gen. HALLECK addressed a letter to Gen. ROSECRANS, relative to the treatment of disloyal persons.
• Col. COLBURN’s force (Union) captured at Thompson’s Station, Tenn.
March 7.
• The Union expedition into Northumberland County, Va., returned to the headquarters of the Army of the Potomac from a very successful reconnoitering expedition, during which large captures of provisions, & c., were made.
• Cavalry engagement at Unionville, Tenn., near Murfreesboro.
• The Yazoo Pass expedition arrived in the Tallahatchie.
March 8.
• Schooner Enterprise captured off the coast of Florida.
March 9.
• The rebels entered Fairfax Court House, Va., and captured Brig.-Gen. E.H. STOUGHTON and his guard.
• Anglo-rebel steamer Douro captured by the Quaker City.
March 10.
• President LINCOLN issued a Proclamation ordering soldiers absent from their regiments to return immediately.
• Skirmishing at Rutherford’s Creek, near Columbia, Tenn.
• Gen. VAN DORN’s force retreated toward Shelbyville, Tenn.
• Rebel steamer Parallel burned on the Tallahatchie.
March 12.
• Successful rebel raid to Hilton Head Island, S.C., in the night.
• Gunboat Chilticothe attacked at the town of Greenwood, near Vicksburgh.
March 13.
• The rebels attacked Newbern, N.C.
• Fight between the Union gunboat Chillicothe and the rebel Fort Pemberton, near Vicksburgh, at the mouth of the Tallahatchie River.
• Affair at Deep Gully, N.C., between Union and rebel forces.
• VAN DORN’s forces escape from before Gen. ROSECRANS at Duck River, Tenn.
March 14.
• Port Hudson attacked by Admiral FARRAGUT.
• The steamer Mississippi ran aground, and was burned.
• Gen. FITZHUGH LEE made an advance on our lines at Gloucester, Va., but retired on learning that we had been reinforced.
• Engagement at Deep Gully, N.C., continued.
• Ship Punjaub captured Tay the Alabama.
March 15.
• Schooner Chapman taken possession of at San Francisco as privateer.
• The Jefferson newspaper office destroyed at Richmond, Ind.
March 16.
• Great Union meeting in Brooklyn.
• Gen. ROSECRANS reported the exploits of his cavalry.
• Water admitted into the canal at Lake Providence, near Vicksburgh.
March 17.
• Col. JAMES B. FRY appointed Provost-Marshal General.
• Spirited fighting on the Blackwater.
• Unsuccessful attempt to carry the rebel breastworks.
• Brilliant cavalry fight at Kelly’s Ford on the Rappahannock.
• Steamer Calypso arrived at Charleston, S.C., having run the blockade.
March 19.
• The rebel cavalry crossed Duck River, advancing toward Franklin, Tenn., but were driven back by Union cavalry.
• Rebel guerrillas attacked a railroad train near Richland, Ky.
• Anglo rebel steamer Georgiana ran ashore near Charleston.
March 20.
• Engagement at Milton, Tenn.
• Two of Commodore FARRAGUT’s vessels arrived at the mouth of the canal opposite Vicksburgh.
• Fight at Auburn, Tenn.
March 21.
• Steamer Nicholas I. captured off Wilmington, N.C.
• Steamer Aries captured off Charleston.
• Death of Gen. E.V. SUMNER.
March 22.
• Gen. WOOL, commanding the Department of the East, issued an order relative to deserters.
• Capture of Mount Sterling, Ky., by rebels, who burned the town.
• Steamer Granite City captured off the Bahamas.
• Steamer Bio Bio burned at New-Orleans.
March 23.
• Our pickets at Chantilly attacked.
• A portion of Pensacola, Fla., destroyed by Union troops.
March 24.
• Capture of a guerrilla party near Stafford Courthouse, Va.
• Our fleet commenced entering the Yazoo Pass near Vicksburgh.
March 25.
• Capture of Union troops at Brentwood, Tenn.
• Union rams Lancaster and Switzerland attempted to run past the batteries at Vicksburgh, the former being sunk and the latter captured.
• JEFF. DAVIS signed a bill for the impressment of property.
March 26.
• Skirmish near Camp Dick Robinson, Ky.
• Orange Grove, Fla., Occupied by a Union regiment of colored soldiers.
March 27.
• Fast day in the Confederate States.
• Deserter shot at Indianapolis, Ind.
• Arrest of the rebel Col. TALCOTT in New-York.
• Palatka, Fla., occupied by a Union regiment of colored troops.
• Admiral FARRAGUT engaged the rebel batteries at Warrenton, three miles below Vicksburgh.
• Bark Lapwing and M.J. Colcord taken by the Florida.
• United States troops landed at Cole’s Island near Charleston, S.C.
• Bombardment of Fort Pemberton, Vicksburgh, commenced.
March 28.
• Danville, Ky., recaptured by Union troops.
• A Union train captured between Memphis, Tenn., and Grand Junction.
• Cole’s Island, nine miles from Charleston, S.C., taken possession of by Union troops.
• Steamer Aries captured running the blockade at Charleston, S.C.
• Union gunboat Diana captured by rebels in Louisiana.
• Our pickets at Washington, N.C., driven in.
• Our fleet reached the Coldwater River, near Vicksburgh, by the Yazoo Pass.
March 29.
• Williamsburgh, Va., attacked by the rebels.
March 30.
• Point Pleasant, Va., captured by rebels, but subsequently recaptured.
• Commencement of the investment of Washington, N.C.
• Richmond, near Vicksburgh, taken possession of by our forces.
March 31.
• Great Union meeting in Washington.
• Sharp battle near Somerset, Ky.
• The rebels defeated.
• Jacksonville, Fla., evacuated by Union troops, the town having been burned by them.
• Union gunboat St. Clair attacked by the rebels on the Cumberland.
• Woods near Washington, N.C., shelled by Union gunboats.
• The rebels opened fire on the fort back of Washington, N.C., the place being closely invested by the rebels.
• The rebel batteries at Grand Gulf on the Mississippi attacked.
• Schooner Antelope captured off Charleston, S.C.
APRIL.
April 1.
• Sharp cavalry fight at Broad Run, Va., near Drainesville, Va.
April 2.
• Grand reception of Gen. BUTLER at the New-York Academy of Music.
• Rebel attack on our iron-clads at Tuscumbia, Ala.
• Serious bread riot in Richmond, Va. A large number of women attacked the storehouses.
April 3.
• The rebel Gen. MORGAN defeated at Liberty, Tenn.
April 4.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN’s report of his campaign, dated Oct. 15, 1862, made public.
• Town of Palmyra, on the Cumberland, destroyed by our forces, in retaliation for the attack on the gunboat St. Clair.
• The rebels repulsed at Woodbury, Tenn.
• The Yazoo Pass expedition operating against Vicksburgh, returning, left Fort Greenwood.
April 5.
• A force left Newbern, N.C., to rescue Gen. FOSTER’s army besieged at Washington, N.C.
• Iron-clad fleet armed at Charleston Bar.
April 6.
• Report of the Committee on the Conduct of the War made public.
• Gen. MITCHELL dashed into a rebel camp at Green Hill, Tenn.
• Visit of the President and his family to the Army of the Potomac.
• The expedition against Charleston, S.C. started for that city.
April 7.
• ATTACK ON FORT SUMTER, CHARLESON HARBOR, BY OUR MONITORS, AND OUR FORCES REPULSED.
• An additional force left Newbern, N.C., to aid Gen. FOSTER at Washington, N.C.
April 8.
• The Army of the Potomac, reviewed by the President.
• The Keokuk, monitor, sank in Charleston harbor from the shots received in bombarding Fort Sumter.
• Arrival of the Yazoo Pass expedition, operating against Vicksburgh, at Helena, Ark.
• Ship Morning Star captured by the Alabama.
April 9.
• Fight at Blount’s Bridge, N.C. and at Kuff’s Mills, N.C.
April 10.
• Gen. GRANGER attacked by the rebel VAN DORN’s army at Franklin, Tenn.
• A passenger train near Lavergne, Tenn., attacked by a rebel force.
• Address of JEFF. DAVIS to the rebel States issued.
April 11.
• Great meeting in New-York in commemoration of the attack on Fort Sumter in 1864.
• Skirmishing at Williamsburgh, Va.
April 12.
• Col. E.A. KIMBALL killed by Gen. CORCORAN.
• Battle between Gen. BANKS’ army and the rebels in the Teche country, La.
• Steamer Stonewall Jackson destroyed off Charleston. Our iron-clads left Charleston Harbor.
April 13.
• Riot between black and white laborers in South street, N.Y.
• The rebels evacuated their works at Centreville, La., in the night.
• The fighting in the Teche country, Louisiana, continued.
April 14.
• Fight near Suffolk, Va.
• Aid reached Gen. FOSTER, at Washington, N.C.
• Repulse of the rebels in the Nansemond River, Va.
• The ram Queen of the West recaptured from the rebels in Grand Lake, La.
• The final action between Gen. BANKS’ army and the rebels in the Teche country.
• Fight at Kelly’s Ford, near Fredericksburgh.
April 15.
• A rebel battery near Suffolk, Va., silenced.
• Gen. FOSTER arrived at Newbern, N.C., from Washington, N.C., where his army was besieged.
April 16.
• FEDERAL GUNBOATS BENTON, TUSCUMBIA, LAFAYETTE, PITTSBURGH, CARONDELET, GEN. PRICE AND THREE TRANSPORTS RAN PAST THE REBEL BATTERIES AT VICKSBURGH IN THE NIGHT.
April 17.
• Engagement at Vermillion Bayou, La., resulting in success for our troops.
• Col. GRIERSON started on his great cavalry expedition for Baton Rouge, La.
April 18.
• Fayetteville, Ark., attacked by the rebels, who were repulsed.
• Skirmish near Ceclina, Tenn.
• Fighting near Memphis, Tenn.
• Steamer St. John’s captured off Charleston, S.C.
April 19.
• Rebel battery at the West Branch, Nansemond River, near Suffolk, Va., captured.
• Our forces landed at Eastport.
• Sloop Neptune captured off Charleston, S.C.
• Steamer Norseman destroyed off Charleston.
April 20.
• Great mass meeting in New-York in commemoration of the grand, uprising of the people in 1861.
• Opelousas and Washington, La., occupied by Gen. BANKS.
• Rebel fort at Butte a la Rose, La., captured.
April 21.
• Visit of Gen. HALLECK to Suffolk, Va.
April 22.
• McMinnville, Tenn., taken by our troops, and the rebel stores there destroy ed.
• Tompkinsville, Ky., destroyed by our troops.
• A LARGE FORCE WITH GUNBOATS RAN PAST THE REBEL BATTERIES AT VICKSBURGH.
• Union raid on Middleton, Tenn.
April 23.
• Gen. HUNTER addressed a letter to JEFF. DAVIS, threatening retaliation for the execution of negro soldiers and their officers.
April 25.
• Tuscumbia, Ala., occupied by our cavalry.
• Ship Dictator destroyed by the Georgia.
April 26.
• The rebels at Cape Girardeau, Mo., routed.
• Schooner Clarinda, blockade runner, captured.
April 27.
• Scouting expedition under Gen. STAHL left Fairfax Court-house, Va.
• Fighting near Kinston, N.C.s
• STONEMAN’s cavalry expedition left Warrenton Junction, Va.
• U.S. sloop-of-war Preble destroyed by fire.
April 28.
• Skirmish near Kinston, N.C., continued.
• STONEMAN’s cavalry crossed the Rappahannock at Kelley’s Ford.
April 29.
• The Rappahannock crossed by Gen. HOOKER at Kelley’s Ford in the advance upon Fredericksburgh.
• Attack on the rebel batteries at Grand Gulf, Miss. Haines’ Bluff near Vicksburgh, bombarded.
• Orange Springs reached by, Gen. STONEMAN’s cavalry.
• Louisa Court-House, Va., reached by STONEMAN’s cavalry in the light.
• Ship Oneida destroyed by the. Florida. The bark Henrietta also destroyed.
April 30.
• Fast day in the United States.
• Chancellorsville, Va., occupied by Gen. HOOKER’s army.
• Withdrawal of the rebel Gen. LONGSTREET’s army from the south side of the James River commenced.
• Cavalry fight at Dayton’s Gap, Ala.
• Gen. GRANT’s army landed at Bruinsburg, Miss.
MAY.
May 1.
• BATTLE OF CHANCELLORSVILLE COMMENCED.
• Cavalry engagement at Blountsville; Ala.
• Battle of Thompson’s Hills, Miss., or Port Gibson.
• Port Gibson occupied.
May 2.
• Battle of Chancellorsville continued.
• Culpepper Court-house, Va., fell in our hands.
• BIG BLACK RIVER, MISS., REACHED BY OUR FORCES.
• COL. GRIERSON’s CAVALRY FORCE reached BATON ROUGE, LA., FROM TENNESSEE.
May 3.
• BATTLE OF CHANCELLORSVILLE, VA., CONTINUED. TERRIFIC FIGHTING. The Chancellor mansion shelled and burned by the rebels. Gen. BERRY killed. “Stonewall” JACKSON mortally wounded. Attack on Fredericksburg by Gen. SEDGWICK. Storming of Mary’s Hill.
• Great panic in Richmond, Va., on the approach of STONEMAN’s cavalry.
• Columbia, Va., on the James River, reached by our cavalry, who destroyed the canal there. Goochland, Va., visited by our cavalry.
• Fight near Suffolk, Va.
• Fighting near Warrenton Junction, Va.
• Capture of Grand Gulf, Miss., by Admiral PORTER’s fleet.
• Battle of Salem Heights, near Fredericksburgh, Va.
• Beaver Dam, Ashland and Hanover Court-house, Va., reached by Gen. STONEHAN’s cavalry.
• Capture of newspaper correspondents running past the rebel batteries at Vicksburgh.
• Col. KILPATRICK’s cavalry left Louisa Court-house, Va.
• Capture of Col. STREIGHT’s Union cavalry, near Rome, Ga.
May 4.
• Panic in Richmond, Va., on the approach of STONEMAN’s cavalry.
• STONEMAN’s cavalry within two miles of Richmond, Va.
• He reached Chickahominy Bridge.
• Hungary, Va., reached by Col. KILPATRICK.
• Meadow Bridge, on the Chickahominy, destroyed by Col. KILPATRICK.
• Schooner Juniper, blockade-runner, captured.
May 5.
• HON. C.L. VALLANDIGHAM ARRESTED AT DAYTON, OHIO, FOR TREASON.
• Riot and attempt to rescue him at Dayton.
• RETURN OF THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC FROM CHANCELLORSVILLE, ACROSS THE RAPPAHANNOCK, COMMENCED.
• Col. KILPATRICK surprised some rebel cavalry at Aylett’s, Va.
• The Governor of Mississippi called on the people of the State to arouse for its defence.
May 6.
• Trial of VALLANDIGHAM at Cincinnati commenced.
• Return of the Army of the Potomac across the Rappahannock continued.
• Gen. HOOKER issued an address to his army in respect to the battles at Chancellorsville.
• Severe battle at Clinton, Miss.
• Steamer Eugenie captured off Mobile Bay, by a Union gunboat.
• Battle of Fourteen-Mile Creek, near Vicksburgh.
May 7.
• President LINCOLN and Gen. HALLECK visited the Army of the Potomac at Falmouth, Va.
• Arrival of Col. KILPATRICK, with a force of cavalry, at Gloucester Point, Va.
• Death of Gen. WHIPPLE.
• Trial of C.L. VALLANDIGHAM concluded.
• West Point, Va., occupied by our forces.
• Bridges, & c., near White House, Va., destroyed by our troops.
• Gen. LEE issued a congratulatory address to his army.
• Steamer Cherokee captured off Charleston, S.C.
May 8.
• Proclamation of President LINCOLN in relation to the draft, defining, the duties, of persons of foreign birth.
• Gen. T.F. MEAGHER resigned his commission.
• Gen. BANKS reached Alexandria, La., having captured in his expedition 2,000 prisoners, 20 pieces of artillery, 2 transports, and a large amount of property.
May 9.
• Rebel guerrillas attacked at Horseshoe Bend, on the Cumberland River, Tenn.
• Schooner Sea Lion captured off Mobile Bay.
May 10.
• Death of Stonewall JACKSON.
May 12.
• Union victory at Raymond, Miss.
May 13.
• The rebels defeated at Mississippi Spring, Miss.
• Gen. JOE JOHNSTON arrived at Jackson, Miss.
• A large amount of rebel property destroyed at Yazoo City.
• Schooner A.J. Hodge captured.
• Ship Crown Point burned by the Florida.
May 14.
• JACKSON, MISS., TAKEN BY GEN. GRANT.
• Resignation of Gen. THOS. F. MEAGHER accepted.
• Schooner Sea Bird captured.
• Clinton, Miss., occupied by our troops.
May 15.
• Capture of a company of United States cavalry at Charlestown, Md.
• Destruction of rebel stores at York River, Va.
• Fight at Carrsville, Va.
• Jackson, Miss.
• Evacuation of by Union troops commenced.
• British brigantine Cornet captured.
• Ship Byzantium burned by the Tacony.
May 16.
• Recapture of the cavalry taken by the rebels at Charlestown, Md.
• Rebels under Gen. PEMBERTON defeated at Edward’s Station, Miss.
• GREAT BATTLE AT BAKER’s CREEK, NEAR VICKSBURGH, CALLED THE BATTLE OF CHAMPION’s HILL.
• Engagement at Berry’s Ferry, Va.
May 17.
• Steamer Cuba pursued and destroyed, and schooner Hunter captured.
• Battle of Big Black River Bridge, Miss.
May 18.
• Meeting to express sympathy with VALLANDIGHAM held in New-York.
• VALLANDIGHAM sentenced to confinement in Fort Warren.
• Union victory on the Big Black River, Miss.
• Capture of Haines’ Bluff, near Vicksburgh, by Admiral PORTER.
• Schooner Isabel destroyed off Mobile Bay.
• Schooner Ripple captured off Mobile Bay.
May 19.
• Gen. MEAGHER took leave of his troops.
• Richmond, Mo., sacked by guerrillas.
• Vicksburgh fortifications assaulted.
• Blockade runner steamer Union captured.
May 20.
• Steamer Stono, late United States gunboat Isaac Smith, destroyed off Charleston.
• Bark Goodspeed destroyed by the Tacony.
• VICKSBURGH INVESTED.
May 21.
• Assault on the rebel works at Vicksburgh, Miss. Our forces repulsed with severe loss.
May 22.
• The sentence of VALLANDIGHAM changed to banishment.
• Blockade runner Eagle captured.
• Assault on Vicksburgh continued.
• Battle at Gum Swamp, N.C.
• Engagement at Port Hudson Plains.
May 23.
• Battle at Gum Swamp, N.C., continued.
• Junction of Gen. BANKS’ forces with those of Gen. AUGUR at Bayou Sara.
May 24.
• Capture of schooners Gen. Prim and Rapid and sloops Jane, Adelie and Bright.
May 27.
• Presentation of Kearney medals to the Third army corps.
• Rebels defeated at Florence, Ala.
• Attack on Port Hudson commenced.
• Union gunboat Cincinnati sunk by rebel batteries at Vicksburgh.
May 28.
• Attack on Port Hudson continued. Our forces repulsed.
• Blockade runner Victoria captured.
May 29.
• Skirmish near Thoroughfare Gap, Va.
• Gen. KILPATRICK left Yorktown on a raid up the Peninsula, which resulted very successfully.
May 30.
• Attack on a train of cars near Catlett’s Station, Va., by MOSEBY’s rebel cavalry.
• MOSEBY’s force defeated near Greenwich, Va.
• Train of cars destroyed near Kettle Run, Va.
May 31.
• Skirmishing near Monticelio, Ky.
• Schooner Echo captured.
JUNE.
June 1.
• Meeting of sympathizers with VALLANDIGHAM at Philadelphia.
• James Island evacuated by the Union troops.
June 2.
• Gen. BURNSIDE suppressed the circulation of the New-York World and Chicago Times in his department.
June 3.
• Great Peace meeting in New-York.
• Gen. LEE broke up camp at Fredericksburgh, Va.
June 4.
• Our force at Franklin, Tenn., attacked.
• Gen. BURNSIDE revoked his order suppressing the New-York World and Chicago Times, by order of the President.
• Departure of an expedition into King William County, Va. from Yorktown, which was highly successful in its results.
• Brisk fight at Sataria, on the Yazoo.
June 6.
• Bark Whistling Wind destroyed by a privateer.
• Rebels attacked Milliken’s Bend and Young’s Point, near Vicksburgh, but were repulsed.
• Shawneetown, Kan., destroyed by guerrillas.
June 7.
• Battle of Milliken’s Bend concluded.
June 9.
• Severe cavalry engagement at Brandy Station or Beverly’s Ford, Va., on the Rappahannock.
• The rebels driven from Monticelio, Ky.
• Departments of the Monongahela and Susquehanna created.
• Execution of two spies by Gen. ROSECRANS.
June 10.
• The draft in Indiana resisted.
• Engagement near Monticelio, Ky.
• Lake Providence attacked by rebels and successfully defended by negro troops.
• The Havelock sunk off Charleston bar.
June 11.
• C.L. VALLANDIGHAM nominated for Governor of Ohio.
• Darien, Ga., destroyed by our forces.
• The Herald destroyed by Union gunboats, Charleston Harbor.
• Steamer Calypso captured.
• Gen. HALLECK directed the Garrtsons at Martinsburgh and Winchester, Va., to retire to Harper’s Ferry.s
• Triune, Tenn., attacked by the rebels.
June 12.
• Gov. CURTIN, of Pennsylvania issued a proclamation calling for volunteers to repel the anticipated invasion of that State by the rebels.
• Gen. COUCH assumed command of the Department of the Susquehanna.
• President LINCOLN addressed a letter to ERASTUS CORNING and others, in relation to the arrest of VALLANDIGHAM, & c.
• Gen. HUNTER left the Department of the South.
• Gen. Q.A. GILLMORE assumed command.
• Brisk engagement, between Union batteries on Folly Island and the rebel batteries on Morris Island, Charleston Harbor.
June 13.
• Town of Eunice, near Vicksburgh, destroyed by our gunboats.s
• Winchester, Va., attacked and its armament and a part, of its garrison captured.
June 14.
• Skirmish at State Creek, Ky.
• Berryville and Martinsburgh occupied by the rebels.
• THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC LEFT FALMOUTH FOR PENNSYLVANIA IN PURSUIT OF LEE.
• Port Hudson assaulted.
• Our forces repulsed with heavy loss.
• Gen. ROSECRANS commenced a forward movement.
June 15.
• The President called for 100,000 volunteers to repel the invasion of Pennsylvania.
• Gov. CURTIN, of Pennsylvania, called on the people of the State to enroll themselves for its defence.
• Chambersburgh, Penn., occupied by the rebels.
• Winchester, Va., evacuated by Gen. MILROY, at 1 o’clock, A.M., after which he was pursued and engaged in a severe battle.
June 16.
• Harper’s Ferry reached by MILROY’s army.
• Gov. CURTIN appealed to the people of Philadelphia to rise.
• Gov. PARKER, of New-Jersey, called for volunteers to repel the invasion of Pennsylvania.
• Harper’s Ferry invested and attacked. Our forces retired to Maryland Heights and shelled the rebels out.
• Brig Umpire captured by the Tacony.
• Gen. MEAGHER tendered the hospitalities of New-York City.
June 17.
• Great excitement over the invasion of Pennsylvania.
• Spirited cavalry engagement at Aldie, Va.
• Draft in Ohio resisted.
• Capture of the rebel steamer Atlanta, late the Fingal, near Savannah, Ga.
June 19.
• The rebels crossed the Ohio River into Indiana.
• Skirmish at Orleans, Ind.
June 20.
• Ship Isaac Webb captured and bonded by the Tacony.
• Frederick, Md., occupied by the rebels.
June 21.
• Great cavalry engagement near Middleburgh and Upperville, Va.
• The rebels driven from Frederick, Md.
June 22.
• Millerstown, eight miles from Gettysburgh, Penn., occupied by the rebels.
• Greencastle reoccupied by the rebels. The portion of EWELL’s corps which had not yet arrived in Pennsylvania crossed the Potomac and moved up the valley.
• The rebels driven from Cumberland, Md.
• Brashear City, La., captured by the rebels.
June 23.
• Chambersburgh, Penn., reoccupied by the rebels.
June 24.
• Shippensburgh, Penn., reached by a portion of the rebel army.
• Severe skirmish of Gen. ROSECRANS’ army at Hoover’s Gap, Tenn., successful to our arms in its results.
• The rebels driven from Liberty Gap, near Murfreesboro.
• Heavy skirmishing near Murfreesboro, Tenn.
• The main body of LEE’s army entered Maryland, crossing the Potomac at Shepperdstown and Williamsport, instead of east of the Blue Ridge, as had been the intention.
June 25.
• Fairfax Court-house, Va., occupied by the rebels.
• Skirmish at Marysrille, Penn., near Harrisburgh.
• Another engagement at Liberty Gap, Tenn.
• An expedition left West Point, Va., for the interior.
• Destruction of one of the rebel forts at Vicksburgh by the explosion of one of our mines.
• Ship Constitution captured by the privateer Georgia.
• The Union army crossed the Potomac at Edwards’ Ferry.
• Gen. ROSECRANS resumed his march.
June 26.
• Gettysburgh, Penn., occupied by the rebels.
• Gov. CURTIN issued another proclamation to the people of Pennsylvania.
• Rebel privateer Archer (with the crew of the Tacony) entered Portland harbor, and captured the revenue cutter Caleb Cushing, which enterprise resulted in the capture of the Archer.
• White House, Va., occupied by our troops.
June 27.
• The advance of Gen. ROSECRANS’ army arrived at Manchester, Tenn.
• Kingston, Penn., occupied by the rebels.
• York, Penn., also occupied.
• Chambersburgh, Penn., occupied by the divisions of the rebel army under Gens. LONGSTREET and HILL.
• The whole rebel army consisting of 90,000 infantry, upward of 10,000 cavalry and 4,000 or 5,000 artillery.
June 28.
• Gen. HOOKER relieved of the command of the Army of the Potomac and Gen. MEADE appointed in his place.
• The rebels within four miles of Harrisburgh, Penn.
• Bridge over the Susquehanna at Columbia, Penn., burned.
• Mechanicsburgh surrendered to the rebels.
• Brookville, Md., occupied by the rebels.
• Attempt of the rebels to take our fort at Donaldsonville, La.
June 29.
• Wrightsville, Penn., evacuated by the rebels.
• Fight at McConnellsburgh, Penn.
• Gen. MEADE’s army put in motion and at night was put in position, its left at Emmettsburgh and its right at New-Windsor.
June 30.
• York, Penn., evacuated by the rebels.
• Martial law proclaimed in Baltimore.
• Skirmish at Sporting Hill, Penn., near Oyster Point.
• Cavalry battle at Hanover Junction, Penn.
• Skirmish near Mechanicsburgh, Penn.
• Gen. BUFORD passed through Gettysburgh on a reconnaissance in force.
• At nightfall the greater part of the rebel force was concentrated in the immediate vicinity of two corps of the Union army.
JULY.
July 1.
• FIRST DAY OF THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURGH.
• The First and Eleventh army corps engaged. Gen. REYNOLDS killed.
• Large losses on both sides.
• Brilliant fight at Carlisle between the rebel cavalry and artillery of Gen. FITZHUGH LEE, and our forces, under Gen. W.F. SMITH.
July 2.
• SECOND DAY OF THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURGH. The rebels attacked our forces in large numbers, but were repulsed. Gens. WEED and ZOOK killed, and Gen. SICKLES wounded. The rebel Gen. BARKSDALE, of Mississippi, killed. Chambersburgh and Shippensburgh, Penn., evacuated by the rebels.
• Skirmish near Bottom’s Bridge, Va.
• Tullahoma, Tenn., occupied by our forces.
July 3.
• THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURGH CONCLUDED. Heavy losses on both sides. A great victory gained by the Union army, and the rebels compelled to retreat.
• Rebel pontoon bridge over the Potomac near Williamsport, Md., destroyed.
• Departure of a cavalry expedition from Newbern, N.C., into the interior.
• Conference of Union and rebel commanders at Vicksburgh, Miss., relative to the surrender of the city to our forces.
July 4.
• SURRENDER OF VICKSBURGH, MISS., WITH 31,000 TROOPS, 220 GUNS AND 70,009 SMALL ARMS, TO Gen. U.S. GRANT.
• Union victory at Helena, Ark.
• The retreat of the rebels from the battle-field of Gettysburgh, Penn., commenced.
• Proclamation of President LINCOLN announcing a victory at Gettysburgh.
• Gen. MEADE issued a congratulatory address to his army on the victory at Gettysburgh.
• ALEXANDER H. STEPHENS, Vice-President of the Confederate States, applied for permission to visit Washington as bearer of a letter from JEFF. DAVIS to President LINCOLN. He was refused.
July 5.
• The day occupied by Gen. MEADE in succoring the wounded and burying the dead left on the field of Gettysburgh.
July 6.
• Defeat of the rebel Gen. JOHNSTON on the Big Black. His rear-guard captured at Bolton.
• The rebel army from Gettysburgh arrived at Hagerstown, Md.
• Defeat of STUART by BUFORD, at Hanover.
July 7.
• Battle at Williamsport, Md.
• The rebel Gen. MORGAN’s force at Bardstown, Ky.
• RETREAT OF BRAGG’s ARMY ACROSS THE TENNESSEE RIVER.
• Gen. MEADE started in pursuit of LEE, by a flank movement on Middletown.
July 8.
• SURRENDER OF PORT HUDSON, with 7,000 prisoners, and a large number of cannon and small arms, to Gen. BANKS.
• The rebel Gen. MORGAN crossed into Indiana, and captured the town of Corydon.
• Gen. GILLMORE issued orders for an attack on Morris Island, Charleston harbor.
July 9.
• Port Hudson taken possession of by our army.
• Victory of our cavalry under BUFORD and KILPATRICK at Boonsboro.
July 10.
• Gen. GILLMORE commenced operations against the rebel batteries on Morris Island, Charleston harbor.
• Gen. STRONG took possession of several of the rebel works.
• Martial law declared in Louisville, Ky.
• Engagement at Jackson, Miss.
• Engagement at Sharpsburgh, Md.
• Skirmish near Funkstown.
July 11.
• BRILLIANT Engagement on MORRIS ISLAND. All the batteries evacuated by the rebels, who defended themselves in Fort Wagner.
• Commencement of the Draft in New-York City.
July 12.
• Our forces entered Hagerstown, Md., the rebels having evacuated the town in the night.
• Our forces having passed through South Mountain, came up with the rebel army of Gen. LEE, securely posted on the heights of Marsh’s Run.
July 13.
• COMMENCEMENT OF THE GREAT DRAFT RIOT IN NEW-YORK CITY.
• The drafting office in Third-avenue destroyed; a negro hung, and public and private property destroyed.
• Gen. LEE’s army escaped across the Potomac River in the night.
• Gen. MEADE reconnoitered the rebel position, and made preparations for an attack.
• Engagement at Jackson, Tenn.
• Capture of Yazoo City by our troops.
July 14.
• The Draft Riot in New-York City continued; business, suspended; negroes hung; Col. O’BRIEN killed; conflict between the mob and soldiers; Proclamation of Gov. SEYMOUR; Postmaster WAKEMAN’s house destroyed; speech of GOV. SEYMOUR to “his friends.”
• Riot in Boston.
• Advance of Gen. MEADE.
• Our cavalry occupied Falling Waters, on the Potomac, and captured a brigade of rebels.
• Williamsport, Md., occupied by our forces.
• Admiral LEE captured Fort Powhattan, on the James River.
July 15.
• The Draft Riot in New-York continued; the military routed! more negroes hung; terrible excitement in New-York and neighborhood; Proclamation of Mayor OPDYKE.
• Gen. DIX ordered to New-York, and Gen. J.G. FOSTER to Fort Monroe.
• Proclamation of the President issued appointing Aug. 6 for a National Thanksgiving for our great victories.
• A mob in Troy destroyed the Times office and other property.
• Arrival of VALLANDIGHAM at Niagara Falls, Canada, from his journey through the Southern States.
• Jackson, Miss., shelled by our forces.
• JEFF. DAVIS ISSUED A PROCLAMATION IMMEDIATELY CONSCRIPTING EVERY ABLE-BODIED MAN between the ages of 18 and 45.
• Gen. BLUNT crossed the Arkansas River.
July 16.
• The draft riot in New-York continued; Archbishop HUGHES invited the mob to visit him at his residence on the following day.
• Arrival of Seventh regiment in New-York.
• Gen. JOE JOHNSTON evacuated Jackson, Miss., in the night.
• The rebels routed in the Indian Country.
• Brisk engagement on James Island, S.C.
• Victory of Gen. BLUNT at Elk Creek over 5,000 rebels.
• Jackson, Miss., taken by our army.
July 17.
• Quiet restored in New-York; the Draft Riot suppressed; Gen. BROWN succeeded by Gen. CANBY in command of the troops in New-York; speech of Archbishop HUGHES to the mob.
• Battle with the rebel Gen. MORGAN at Berlin, Ohio.
• Two expeditions — one up the Red River and one to Natchez — made large captures of arms, ammunition and cattle.
July 18.
• STORMING OF FORT WAGNER, CHARLESTON HARBOR.
• Arrival of Gen. FOSTER at Fort Monroe.
• Gen. LEE’s rear-guard left Martinsburgh. Va.
• MORGAN’s force dispersed and a large number of his men captured.
• Fight with MORGAN’s men at Buffington, Ohio.
• Admiral PORTER reported the complete success of the Red River expedition.
• Bombardment of Fort Wagner, Charleston Harbor; the fort stormed and our troops repulsed.
July 19.
• The rebel MORGAN made an unsuccessful attempt to cross the Ohio River; more of his men captured.
• Two companies of rebels and an ammunition train captured at Jackson, Tenn.
July 20.
• Gov. SEYMOUR ordered the return of the State arms used against the rioters in New-York City.
• Cavalry reconnaissance to Front Royal, Va..
• Sharp fight with the rebel guerrilla MORGAN, and capture of a large portion of his force at George’s Creek.
• Destruction of railroad and other property at Rocky Mount, N.C., by an expedition of Union troops.
July 22.
• Railroad bridge, 350 feet long, over Tar River, at Rocky Mount, N.C., destroyed by a cavalry expedition from Newbern, which also destroyed a large amount of property.
• Recapture of Brashear City, La., by our troops.
July 23.
• Sharp fight near Front Royal, Va.
July 24.
• Col. TOLAND attacked the enerny at Wytheville, on the East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad, capturing two pieces of artillery, 700 muskets and 125 prisoners.
July 25.
• Steamer Merrimac captured, running the blockade at Wilmington, N.C.
July 26.
• Death of Hon. JOHN J. CRITTENDEN.
• MORGAN AND THE REMAINDER OF HIS BAND CAPTURED NEAR NEW-LISBON, OHIO.
July 27.
• The rebel pirate Alabama arrived off the coast of Africa near Cape of Good Hope.
July 28.
• Death of WILLIAM L. YANCEY, of Alabama.
• The rebels defeated at Lexington, Tenn.
July 29.
• Repulse of the rebels at Paris, Ky.
July 30.
• Proclamation of President LINCOLN in regard to rebel treatment of colored troops, issued.
• Cummings Point rebel battery, Charleston harbor bombarded.
• Rebels defeated at Winchester, Ky.
July 31.
• Heavy bombardment of our works on Morris Island, Charleston harbor, from Fort Wagner.
• Successful attack on the rebels at Lancaster, Ky.
• Reconnaissance to Sperryville, Va.
AUGUST.
August 1.
• Battle between the cavalry of the two armies near Culpepper, Va.
• JEFF. DAVIS appealed to the deserters from the rebel army to return, offering them pardon and amnesty.
August 3.
• Gov. SEYMOUR indited a letter, to the President, remonstrating against the enforcement of the draft in New-York City because of unfair enrollment, & c.
August 4.
• Engagement neat Brandy Station, Va.
• Steamer Ruth, with $2,500,000 in Government funds, burned on the Mississippi River.
• Reconnaissance of Fort Darling on the James River.
August 6.
• Ship Francis B. Cutting captured and bonded by the Florida.
• National Thanksgiving Day.
August 7.
• Reply of President LINCOLN to Gov. SEYMOUR’s letter of remonstrance against the draft, in which he asserted that the draft should proceed.
August 8.
• Gov. SEYMOUR replied to President LINCOLN’s letter relative to the draft.
August 11.
• President LINCOLN ended the correspondence with Gov. SEYMOUR relative to the draft.
August 12.
• Fort Sumter, Charleston harbor, battered by our shot.
• The rebels opened on our works near Charleston with grape and canister.
August 13.
• An expedition left Lagrange, Tenn., for Central Mississippi.
August 14.
• Death of Commodore MORRIS.
August 15.
• The authorities of the City of New-York appropriated $3,000,000 to pay for substitutes.
August 16.
• Steamer Alice Vivian captured running out of Mobile.
• GEN. ROSECRANS COMMENCED HIS ADVANCE ACROSS THE CUMBERLAND MOUNTAINS.
August 17.
• Great distruction of rebel property at Grenada by our troops from Tennessee.
• COMMENCEMENT OF THE GRAND ATTACK ON FORT SUMTER, CHARLESTON HARBOR. The iron-clad fleet and the land batteries attacked the fort.
• Explosion of the steamer City of Madison on the Mississippi.
• Address of Gen. DIX to the citizens of New-York relative to the draft.
• Reconnaissance in force from the rebel army in Virginia.
• Steamer Nita captured running out of Mobile.
August 18.
• Bombardment of Fort Sumter continued.
August 19.
• Draft in New-York City recommenced.
• Bombardment of Fort Sumter continued.
August 20.
• Bombardment of Fort Sumter continued.
• The Tennessee River reached by Gen. ROSECRANS.
August 21.
• Lawrence, Kan., pillaged and burned by guerrillas.
• Gen. GILLMORE demanded the surrender of Morris Island and Fort Sumter, and threatened to shell Charleston in case of non-compliance with his demand.
• Our batteries opened on Charleston, S.C., in the night.
• The advance of the Army of the Cumberland appeared before Chattanooga, Tenn., and opened fire on the city.
August 22.
• Gen. BEAUREGARD protested against the shelling of the City of Charleston.
August 23.
• Fort Fisher, near Wilmington, N.C., bombarded by the frigate Minnesota.
• Capture of JEFF. THOMPSON.
August 24.
• Charleston, S.C., again shelled by Gen. GILLMORE.
August 26.
• An expedition left Williamsburgh, Va., for Bottom’s Bridge, Va.
• Attack on the rebel riflepits near Fort Wagner.
August 27.
• Death of the rebel JOHN B. FLOYD.
August 28.
• The rebels driven across Bayou Metairie Bridge, Ark., with considerable loss.
August 30.
• The Army of the Cumberland crossed the Tennessee River.
August 31.
• Fourt Moultrie, Charleston harbor, attacked.
SEPTEMBER.
September 1.
• Fierce artillery fight at Port Royal, Va.
• KNOXVILLE, TENN., CAPTURED by Gen. FOSTER, of BURNSIDE’s army.
• Fort Smith, Ark., occupied by our forces.
September 2.
• Kingston, Tenn., captured by Gen. BURNSIDE.
September 3.
• Battle with the Indians at Whitestone Hall.
September 4.
• Bread riot in Mobile, Ala.
• An expedition left New-Orleans, La., for Texas, under Gen. FRANKLIN.
September 5.
• Furious bombardment of Forts Wagner and Gregg, Charleston harbor.
September 6.
• THE REBELS EVACUATED FORTS WAGNER AND GREGG, CHARLESTON HARBOR, AT NIGHT.
September 7.
• Gen. GILLMORE took possession of Fort Wagner and Battery Gregg in the morning, having captured 36 pieces of artillery and a large amount of ammunition.
September 8.
• Our forces at Bath, Va., attacked.
• Unsuccessful naval assault on Fort Sumter.
• Bombardment of Fort Moultrie. One of its magazines exploded.
• Unsuccessful attack on the rebel fortifications at Sabine Pass, Texas.
September 9.
• Gen. CRITTENDEN took possession of Chattanooga, Tenn.
• Cumberland Gap taken by our army.
• Bombardment of Fort Moultrie continued.
• Skirmish at Telford, East Tennessee.
September 10.
• Little Rock, Ark., occupied by our forces.
September 11.
• Arrival at New-York of the first vessel of the Russian fleet.
• IMBODEN attacked a small force of our troops at Moorefield, wounding 15 and capturing about 150.
September 13.
• Brilliant cavalry fight at Culpepper, Va..
• Gen. ROSECRANS’ army attacked at Bird’s Gap.
September 15.
• Proclamation of the President, suspending the writ of habeas corpus in certain cases.
• Order of Gen. GILLMORE congratulating his troops on their success in Charleston Harbor.
September 16.
• Skirmish at Raccoon Ford on the Rapidan.
September 19.
• COMMENCEMENT OF THE GREAT BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA. Our army attacked in large force by the rebels under Gen. BRAGG, who had been reinforced by Gen. LONGSTREET’s corps from Virginia.
• Defeat of the rebels in the Indian Country.
September 20.
• The great battle at Chickamauga, Ga., continued.
• Union attack on Zollicoffer, Tenn.
September 21.
• Gen. THOMAS repelled the assault of the rebels on his corps at Rossville.
• Conclusion of the great battte, which resulted in our forces falling back to Chattanooga after a gallant fight by Gen. THOMAS’ corps. The battle commenced on the Chickamauga Creek, and was waged from that point to Chattanooga. Gen. THOMAS’ corps displayed great gallantry, and by its bravery saved the army from great disaster. The rebels acknowledged very heavy loss in officers and men.
September 22.
• Gallant cavalry action near Madison Court-house, Va.
• Skirmish near Rockville, Md.
September 24.
• Alexandria, Va., opened to trade by Proclamation of the President.
September 28.
• The Army of the Potomac reviewed by Gen. CORTEZ.
September 29.
• Engagement near Morganzia, La.
OCTOBER
October 1.
• Reception of the officers of the Russian fleet by the military and civil authorities of New-York.
October 2.
• Successful cavalry engagement at Anderson’s Cross-roads, Ky.
October 3.
• Proclamation of the President issued, appointing Nov. 26 as Thanksgiving Day.
• McMinnville attacked by rebels.
October 5.
• Railroad bridge south of Murfreesboro’, Tenn., destroyed by the rebels.
• The rebel batteries opened on ROSECRANS at Chattanooga.
• Frigate Ironsides attacked by a rebel vessel and torpedo in Charleston Harbor in the night.
• Engagement at Blue Springs, Tenn.
October 8.
• The rebel rams in the Mersey placed under the supervision of English officials.
October 10.
• Sharp fight with the rebel STUART’s cavalry at Robertson’s River.
• Skirmish between the rebels and Gen. BURNSIDE’s forces at Blue Springs, Tenn.
• Engagement at James City, Va..
• Commencement of the strategical movements of the Army of the Potomac and that of Gen. LEE.
• JEFF. DAVIS reviewed the rebel army before Chattanooga.
October 11.
• The Army of the Potomac withdrew to the north side of the Rappahannock.
• Attack on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, near Germantown, Tenn.
October 12.
• The rebels driven to Brandy Station, Va.
October 13.
• Defeat of VALLANDIGHAM, the Copperhead candidate for Governor of Ohio.
• Reelection of Gov. CURTIN of Pennsylvania.
October 14.
• Battle of Broad River or Bristoe Station, Va.
October 16.
• Gen. GRANT ordered to the command of the Departments of the Ohio, the Cumberland, and the Tennessee.
• Rebel raid into Brownsville, Mo.
October 17.
• Spirited engagement at Manassas Junction.
• The President called for 300,000 volunteers to be raised before the 5th of January, stating that a draft would then take place for any deficiency in the quotas ot the States existing at that time.
October 18.
• Gen. GRANT ASSUMED COMMAND OF THE DEPARTMENTS OF THE OHIO, CUMBERLAND, AND TENNESSEE.
• Charlestown, Va., attacked by the rebels.
• Arrival of Secretary STANTON in Louisville, Ky.
October 19.
• Gen. ROSECRANS relinquishes the command of the Army of the Cumberland.
October 20.
• Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS assumed command of the Army of the Cumberland.
• Gov. SEYMOUR issued a Proclamation in response to that of the President calling for troops.
October 21.
• Battle near Tuscumbia, Ala.
• Fight near Philadelphia, Tenn.
• Cavalry skirmish near Sulphur Springs, Va.
October 22.
• Cavalry skirmish near Fayetteville, Va.
October 23.
• Execution of Dr. WRIGHT at Norfolk, Va.
October 26.
• Skirmishing along the lines of the Army of the Potomac.
• Bombardment of Fort Sumter renewed.
• Gen. HOOKER moved from Bridgeport, Tenn.
October 27.
• Shells thrown into Charleston, S.C., by Gen. GILLMORE.
October 28.
• Gen. HOOKER’s division of the army at Chattanooga repulsed an attack of the enemy.
• Battle near Lookout Mountain, important in its result of reestablishing our communications with the army at Chattanooga.
• The rebels repulsed at Pine Bluff, Ark.
• Our troops occupied Arkadelphia.
October 29.
• Furious bombardment of Fort Sumter.
October 30.
• Union meeting at Little Rock, Ark.
NOVEMBER.
November 1.
• Discovery of a plot to liberate the rebel prisoners in Ohio.
November 2.
• OCCUPATION OF BRAZOS ISLAND, TEXAS, and capture of Boca Chica by Gen. BANKS’ army.
November 3.
• ELECTION IN NEW-YORK, NEW-JERSEY, MASSACHUSETTS, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI and WISCONSIN.
• Success of the Union ticket in all the States but one.
• Reconnaissance to Falmouth, Va.
• Repulse of the rebels at Colliersville, Tenn.
• Battle of Bayou Coteau in the Teche country, La.
November 4.
• Capture of Brownsville, Texas, by Gen. BANKS’ army.
November 5.
• Ball in New-York in honor of the Russians.
• Skirmish at Metley’s Ford, Tenn.
• Capture of the steamer Margaret and Jessie by the Fulton.
• Gen. AVERILL attacked and defeated the enemy near Lewisburgh, capturing three pieces of artillery, 100 prisoners, and a large number of small arms, wagons, and a large quantity of camp equipage. The enemy’s loss in killed and wounded estimated at 300.
November 6.
• Engagement in West Virginia.
• Reconnaissance of the Chowan River, N.C., to near the mouth of the Blackwater.
November 7.
• Battle on the banks of the Rappahannock, near Rappahannock Station; our army very successful; rebel redoubts and 2,000 prisoners taken in West Virginia.
• Continuation of the reconnaissance of the Chowan River, N.C.
November 8.
• Cavalry, fight at Hazel Run, Va.
• Gen. MEADE reported that on advancing from Kelly’s Ford, in the morning, it was discovered that the rebels had evacuated their position on the Rappahannock. Our army was put in motion and the pursuit of the rebels continued by the infantry to Brandy Station, and by the cavalry beyond. Our captures in the fight at Rappahannock were four guns, eight battle-flags, and over 1,900 prisoners.
• Capture of the rebel steamer Cornubia at Wilmington, N.C.
November 9.
• Reconnaissance to Culpepper, Va.
• Gen. MEADE issued a congratulatory order to his troops on their successful passage of the Rappahannock.
November 11.
• Formal presentation to Gen. MEADE of the battleflags captured in the battle on the evening of the 7th.
• Lord LYONS officially informed the Government at Washington that he had received information from the Governor-General of Canada of a plot to invade the United States from Canada, destroy the City of Buffalo and liberate the rebel prisoners on Johnson’s Island in Lake Erie.
• Gen. BUTLER assumed command of the Departments of Eastern Virginia and North Carolina, headquarters at Fortress Monroe
• Gen. FOSTER took leave of his command at Fort Monroe.
November 12.
• Strikes of the laborers, car-drivers and conductors in New-York City-stoppage of the cars on some of the City railroads.
• Gen. KILPATRICK’s camp, near Stevensburgh, Va., shelled by the rebels.
• A body of rebel cavalry crossed the Tennessee River and destroyed two railroad bridges near Lynnville.
November 14.
• Gen. LONGSTREET crossed the Tennessee River in his march against Knoxville, Tenn.
November 15.
• Reconnaissance of our forces along the Rapidan at Raccoon Ford.
• Advance in force of Gen. LONGSTREET on BURNSIDE’s ‘ force. Commencement of the retreat of our forces to Knoxville, Tenn.
• Capture of Corpus Christi, Texas, by Gen. BANKS’ troops.
November 16.
• The rebel battery on Lookout Mountain, near Chattanooga, was quite, vigorously worked, and HOOKER’s camp, Mocassin Point, and the Chattanooga camps shelted.
• Gen. BURNSIDE evacuated Lenoir.
• Our outposts near Knoxville attacked by the rebel advanced guard.
November 17.
• Enthusiastic reception of HENRY WARD BEECHER at his church in Brooklyn on his return from Europe.
• One of our camps near Chattanooga shelled by a rebel battery.
• Our troops, falling back before Gen. LONGSTREET’s army, reached Knoxville, Tenn.
• Attack of the rebels on our forces.
• COMMENCEMENT OF THE SIEGE OF KNOXVILLE, TENN., BY LONGSTREET’s ARMY.
• Shell thrown into Charleston from Fort Gregg.
• Schooner Jas. L. Gerety, from Matamoras, seized by rebel passengers.
• Cavalry fight near Strausburgh, Va..
• Capture of Aranzas, Texas, by Gen. BANKS’ troops.
November 19.
• The Gettysburgh battle-field consecrated as a National Cemetery for the Union soldiers who fell in the July battles at that place. Addresses by President LINCOLN and EDWARD EVERETT.
• Attack on a rebel camp at New Iberia, La.
November 23.
• THE BATTLE OF CHATTANOOGA COMMENCED.
• Our forces advanced directly in front of the fortifications, drove in the enemy’s pickets, and carried his first line of rifle-pits. Gen. HOOKER carried the northern slope of Lookout Mountain.
November 24.
• Gen. SHERMAN crossed the Tennessee River before daylight, at the mouth of the South Chickamauga, and carried the northern extremity of Missionary Ridge.
• Battle of Lookout Mountain.
November 25.
• Brisk engagement near Chattanooga. The rebels driven entirely off Lookout Mountain. Missionary Ridge taken from the rebels. Battle of Tunnel Hill. Gen. GRANT announced a complete victory over BRAGG.
• The rebels repulsed at Kingston, Tenn.
November 26.
• Thanksgiving Day. Advance of the Army of the Potomac. Crossing of the Rapidan.
• Severe cavalry battle near the Rapidan, in which the rebels were driven back.
• Our forces left their camps near Missionary Rhine, and marched toward Chickamauga, which they reached at 10 A.M., finding that the rebels had left the place, after destroying a large quantity of stores, & c. HOOKER’s column engaged in skirmishing.
November 27.
• Gen. GRANT reported, that the route of the rebels was most complete, and that BRAGG’s loss would fully reach 60 pieces of artillery.
• Gen. HOOKER’s, PALMER’s and SHERMAN’s commands reported ten miles beyond Chickamauga Creek, in pursuit of the rebels.
• Fight near Germanna Ford, on the south side of the Rapidan. The rebels fell back to a stronger position.
• HOOKER’s corps engaged near Ringgold, Ga.
• Battle of Ringgold.
• Escape of the rebel Gen. JOHN MORGAN and six of his officers, from the Ohio Penitentiary, in the night.
November 28.
• The rebels made an attack in force upon a large portion of our line, at Knoxville, Tenn., the attack being a feint to cover the real point of attack.
November 29.
• THE REBELS IN FRONT OF KNOXVILLE REPULSED WITH HEAVY LOSS.
November 30.
• The rebels blew up the magazines of Fort Esperanza, Matagorda Bay, Texas.
DECEMBER.
December 1.
• The Army of the Potomac commenced falling back, and at night crossed the Rapidan in safety.
December 2.
• The rebel cavalry repulsed at Clinch River, Tenn.
December 4.
• Rebel cavalry attack on our forage wagons near Harrison, twelve miles from Chattanooga.
December 5.
• Destruction of the steamer Isaac Newton.
• The rebels threatened our forces near the Rapidan.
• Gen. BUTLER issued an important order relative to colored troops.
December 6.
• The advance-guard of Gen. SHERMAN’s force, sent to the relief of BURNSIDE, arrived at Knoxville.
• Steamer Chesapeake taken possession of, in the night, by sixteen rebel passengers, near Cape Cod.
• The monitor Weehawken foundered at her anchors inside Charleston (S.C.) harbor.
• Rebel attack on Union troops garrisoning Natchez, Miss.
December 7.
• Meeting of Congress. Election of SCHUYLER COLFAX, Speaker of the House of Representatives. President LINCOLN issued a proclamation, recommending that all loyal people assemble at their places of worship and give thanks for our great victories.
• Gen. FOSTER reported LONGSTREET in full retreat.
• A division of Gen. KELLY’s troops moved from Beverly, Va., to cooperate with Gen. AVERILL’a expedition.
December 8.
• The House of Representatives unanimously passed a vote of thanks to Gen. U.S. GRANT and his army, and ordered that a medal be struck in his honor, in the name of the people of the United States.
• PROCLAMATION OF AMNESTY ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENT.
• Gen. AVERILL’s expedition moved to cut the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad.
December 9.
• The President’s Message transmitted to Congress.
• The Captain and crew of the Chesapeake landed at St. John.
December 10.
• Shells thrown into Charleston, S.C., in the night.
December 11.
• Fort Sumter on fire.
December 12.
• Gen. BUTLER gave notice that the rebel authorities had refused to receive more supplies for the Union prisoners in Richmond.
• The rebel General JOHN MORGAN escaped across the Tennessee River at Gillespie’s Landing, 60 miles from Chattanooga.
December 14.
• A portion of Gen. LONGSTREET’s army made a descent from Rogersville and engaged the advance of our forces near Bean’s Station.
• Gen. LONGSTREET divided his army and made, with one portion, an attack on Bean’s Station, and with the other an attack on Kelly’s Ford.
December 16.
• The Virginia and Tennessee Railroad cut at Salem by Gen. AVERILL’s cavalry expedition. Three depots were destroyed, containing 2,000 barrels of flour, 10,000 bushels of wheat, 100,000 bushels of shelled corn, 50,000 bushels of oats, 2,000 barrels of meat, and many other articles.
December 17.
• The steamer Chesapeake, captured by rebel passengers on Dec. 6, retaken by the Elia and Annie in Sambro Harbor, near Halifax.
• Raid of STUART’s rebel cavalry on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad.
December 18.
• Explanations made between Lord LYONS and Secretary SEWARD relative to the capture of the Chesapeake.
December 19.
• The Chesapeake delivered over to British authorities at Halifax. The prisoners, on landing, were rescued by the citizens.
December 22.
• Death of Gen. MICHAEL CORCORAN.
December 24.
• Vigorous bombardment of the city of Charleston, S.C. in the night.
December 25.
• The shelling of Charleston, S.C., continued; ten or twelve buildings destroyed by fire.
December 27.
• Obsequies of Gen. CORCORAN.
December 29.
• Return to Harper’s Ferry of an expedition sent to cooperate with that of Gen. AVERILL.
1864
CHRONOLOGICAL RECORD OF THE MILITARY, NAVAL AND POLITICAL EVENTS OF THE YEAR.
A YEAR OF GREAT EVENTS, GREAT BATTLES, GREAT TRIUMPHS AND GREAT RESULTS.
DECEMBER 31, 1864
JANUARY
January 1.
• Discovery in New-York of a portion of the machinery, consisting of a geometrical lathe and a large number of dies and plates, used by a contractor with the Confederate States in making Confederate bonds and Treasury Notes. Arrest of the contractor, and seizure of about $6,000,000 in Confederate bonds and $1,000,000 in Confederate Treasury Notes.
• Emancipation jubilee of the colored inhabitants of Norfolk, Va., and vicinity, on the anniversary of the issuing of the President’s Proclamation of Freedom.
• The State officers of New-York, elected in November, sworn in at Albany.
• Departure of a cavalry reconnaissance to Front Royal, Va.
January 2.
• Seizure of more machinery used by the contractors with the rebels in making Confederate bonds and Treasury Notes.
• The Police Commissioners of New-York, who had been removed from office by Gov. SEYMOUR, on Dec. 31, replied to the Governor’s communication, declining to relinquish their offices until they had been accorded a trial on the charges preferred against them.
January 3.
• Death of Archbishop HUGHES.
• Three hundred of our troops at Jonesville, Va., attacked by an overwhelming force of rebels. After a desperate resistance, our forces surrendered, losing thirty killed, thirty wounded, one gun, and two small howitzers.
January 4.
• Inauguration of C. GODFREY GUNTHER, Mayor of New-York.
• Return to the Army of the Potomac of the cavalry reconnaissance sent on the 1st to Front Royal, Va.
January 6.
• Skirmish at Newtown, West Virginia.
January 7.
• Obsequies of Archbishop HUGHES.
• Arrest of A.M. PALMER, Private Secretary of Collector BARNEY, for complicity in shipping goods to the rebels. He was sent to Fort Lafayette.
• Death of Judge CALEB B. SMITH, late Secretary of the Interior.
January 8.
• Our garrison at Petersburgh, West Virginia, surrounded by the rebels.
• Chase and destruction of the Anglo-rebel steamer Dare.
January 10.
• A heavy fight occurred near Strawberry Plains, East Tennessee. The rebels repulsed with heavy loss.
• A battalion of Maryland cavalry attacked by the rebel guerrilla MOSBY, in London County, Va.
January 12.
• An expedition left Point Lookout on a raid through Westmoreland, Northumberland and Richmond Counties, Va. The force succeeded in destroying a large amount of property.
January 14.
• Our pickets at Three Mile Station, Va., attacked by rebel cavalry.
• Return to Point Lookout of a force of Union troops from a raid in Virginia.
• The rebels under Gen. VANCE made a raid toward Tenisville, Tenn., and captured a train of 23 wagons. He was promptly pursued by Col. PALMER, who recaptured the wagons and took an ambulance loaded with medicines, 150 saddle-horses, and 100 stand of arms. Gen. VANCE, together with his Adjutant-General and Inspector-General, was captured.
• The rebel steamer Mayflower captured in Sarasote Pass, Fla.
January 19.
• An unsuccessful attempt was made to burn JEFF. DAVIS’ house at Richmond.
January 21.
• Extensive conflagration of hospital buildings at Camp Winder, near Richmond.
January 23.
• Two Mississippi regiments attempted to fight their way out of the rebel lines, for the purpose of taking the oath of allegiance to the United States.
January 24.
• Gen. BUTLER issued an order forbidding the passage through our lines of white women and children from the South.
January 26.
• Senator BAYARD, of Delaware, announced his determination to resign his office, and delivered his valedictory.
• Athens, Ala., taken by the rebels.
• Gen. PALMER sent an expedition into Jones and Ouslow Counties, N.C., which succeeded in destroying large quantities of stores.
January 28.
• The resolution in the Senate, to expel Senator DAVIS withdrawn.
• Gen. PALMER made a reconnaissance to Tunnel Hill, Ga. The rebels retreated in the night.
January 29.
• Three brigades of a cavalry corps, about 1,600 strong, skirmished with the rebels under Gen. JONES on the Virginia road, 13 miles from Cumberland Gap. The skirmishing lasted three hours. Our forces held their position until dark, though they were attacked by a superior force, when they withdrew to their camps, three miles in the rear.
January 30.
• A supply train captured by the rebels near Petersburgh, West Virginia. The garrison of Petersburgh, West Virginia, evacuated the place in the night.
• The engagement with the rebels endeavoring to retake Cumberland Gap, continued.
January 31.
• An expedition went up the James River to Smithfield to destroy provisions, &c., of the rebels.
• Engagement at Smithfield, Va.
• Final repulse of the rebels endeavoring to retake Cumberland Gap.
FEBRUARY
February 1.
• Advance of the rebels in Western Virginia, Burlington occupied by them.
• Fighting in the New Creek, Va., valley.
• Engagement at Smithfield, Va., continued.
• Our outposts at Bachelor’s Creek driven in by a strong force of rebels threatening Newbern, N.C.
• The President ordered that a draft for 500,000 men, to serve for three years or during the war, be made on the 10th day of March, for military service of the United States, crediting and deducting therefrom so many as may have been enlisted or drafted into the service prior to the first day of March, and not heretofore credited.
• Our outposts at Bachelor’s Creek driven in by a strong force of rebels threatening Newbern, N.C.
• Engagement at Smithfield, Va., continued.
February 2.
• A portion of our forces encountered a large force of rebels in Mechanicsburgh Gap, near Romney, West Va. We succeeded in forcing the rebels to retreat.
• A guard posted at Patterson’s Creek bridge, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, attacked by rebel cavalry. The rebels fired the bridge, which was not consumed. The rebels were driven back from the railroad at all points.
• A vessel which had run into Charleston Harbor was destroyed by shot from our vessels.
February 3.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s expedition left Vickburgh, Miss.
• The rebels threatening Newbern, N.C., retired to Kingston, and Newbern was relieved from danger of attack.
• An expedition left Newport for White Oak River on a reconnaissance.
February 4.
• Col. MULLIGAN drove the rebels from Morefield, West Va., after six hours’ hard fighting.
• The expedition to White Oak River came on a body of rebel cavalry about five miles from Young’s Cross Roads, capturing the entire party.
• Skirmishing of Gen. SHERMAN’s forces near Champion Hill.
February 5.
• A formidable expedition left Port Royal, S.C., under command of Gen. SEYMOUR, for Jacksonville, Fla.
• Gen. SHERMAN entered Jackson, Miss., the rebels offering but little resistance.
• Engagement between Gen. SHERMAN’s forces and the rebels at Bear Creek, near Clinton, Miss.
February 6.
• The expedition sent out by Gen. BUTLER with the object of liberating our troops held as prisoners at Richmond, made a demonstration at Bottom’s Bridge and drove in the rebel pickets. Great excitement in Richmond.
• A portion of the Army of the Potomac engaged.
February 7
• The portion of the Army of the Potomac which had been sent out on a reconnaissance, returned to its old quarters.
• The rebels driven across the Rapidan.
• Great excitement in Richmond in expectation of the approach of Gen. BUTLER’s force.
• An expedition sent from Knoxville, Tenn., returned, having surprised a body of rebels, killed and wounded 215, taken 50 prisoners, and dispersed the remainder of the band.
February 8.
• A band of rebel guerrillas crossed from Missouri into Kansas, near Aubrey.
• The Florida expedition reached Jacksonville, Fla.
February 9.
• The rebel MOSBY appeared with 300 men on the old Bull Run battle-field.
February 11.
• Gen. W.L. SMITH’s cavalry expedition started in the direction of Collersville, Tenn.
February 12.
• Passage of the Enrollment Bill by the House of Representatives.
February 13.
• The entire line of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad evacuated by our forces.
February 14.
• Meridian evacuated by the rebels.
• Guerrilla attack at Tecumseh Landing, Miss.
February 16.
• The Governor of Alabama issued a proclamation to the citizens of Mobile, informing them that the city was about to be attacked, and exhorting noncombatants to leave.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s expedition reached Meridian.
February 18.
• Gen. SEYMOUR left Jacksonville, Fla., and established a depot of supplies at Baldwin.
• Gen. SMITH’s Union expedition reached Okolona, 75 miles south of Corinth, Miss.
February 19.
• Gen. SEYMOUR’s forces advanced to Barber’s Station, a distance of 12 miles.
February 20.
• Skirmish with MOSBY’s cavalry at Piedmont Station, Va.
• BATTLE of OLUSTEE, FLA. Our troops under Gen. SEYMOUR met 15,000 rebels, 55 miles beyond Jacksonville. The battle was desperately fought during three hours, and at sunset our forces retired, overpowered, to Sanderson.
February 21.
• A force of troops left Hilton Head and proceeded up the Savannah River.
• Heavy fighting at Pontotoc, Miss.
February 22.
• Gen. PALMER’s forces occupied Ringgold, Ga.
• The expedition up the Savannah River withdrew.
• Loss of the steamer Bohemian off Cape Elizabeth.
• Opening of the great Sanitary Fair in Brooklyn.
• Call of the Republican National Committee, appointing June 17, as the day for the convention to meet at Baltimore.
February 23.
• Bombardment of Fort Powell, Mobile Bay, by our mortars.
• Desperate charge on the rear-guard of Gen. SMITH’s cavalry force.
• Skirmish near Tunnel Hill, Ga. In the afternoon a contest for its possession commenced.
February 24.
• Engagement at Tunnel Hill, Ga.
• Passage by the Senate of a bill authorizing the appointment of a Lieutenant-General.
February 25.
• Gen. KILPATRICK’s FORCES COMMENCED MOVING ON AN EXPEDITION TO RICHMOND.
• Skirmish at Bean Station.
• Our army in front of Dalton, Ga. TUNNEL HILL CARRIED BY OUR FORCES AFTER CONSIDERABLE FIGHTING.
• Rebel raid on Maysville, Ky.
February 26.
• Gen. SMITH’s expedition arrived in the vicinity of Memphis, Tenn.
February 27
• General movement of KILPATRICK’s forces on the expedition toward Richmond. They left camp near Culpepper Court-house and encamped eight miles south of the Rapidan.
February 28.
• Gen. KILPATRICK’s forces made demonstrations in front of the rebel works at Mine Run. Gen. CUSTER started on a reconnaissance toward Gordonsville, in cooperation with Gen. KILPATRICK.
• Arrival of Gen. SHERMAN at Vicksburgh, Miss., on his return from his great raid through Mississippi.
February 29.
• At 8 o’clock A.M., Gen. KILPATRICK’s forces took up their line of march along the road to Spottsylvania Court-house, Va., en route for the junction of the Virginia Central and the Richmond and Fredericksburgh Railroad. The command arrived at Spottsylvania Court-house. Col. DAHLGREN’s command attacked. Great destruction of bridges, railroad track, & c., KILPATRICK reached and destroyed a portion of the Richmond and Fredericksburgh Railroad. His forces left Frederickshall for Richmond.
• Gen. BUTLER ordered to send out a force to meet KILPATRICK.
MARCH
March 1.
• KILPATRICK’s EXPEDITION REACHED THE OUTER FORTIFICATIONS OF RICHMOND early in the morning; carried the outer line of works, but was repulsed from the next.
• KILPATRICK’s and BUTLER’s forces met in the night.
• Arrival of Gen. SHERMAN and his Staff in New-Orleans.
• Return of Gen. CUSTER’s cavalry expedition to Culpepper.
• Election in Louisiana.
March 2.
• Uniting of KILPATRICK’s and BUTLER’s forces.
• Provost-Marshal-General FRY ordered the draft to take place on the 10th inst. in all sub-districts which had not filled their quotas on the 1st inst.
March 3.
• Gen. KILPATRICK arrived within the lines of BUTLER’s army.
March 4.
• Gen. CUSTER made a reconnoissance to Ely’s Ford on the Rapidan.
• SHERMAN’s army reached Vicksburgh, returning from their raid through Mississippi.
• Inauguration of Gov. HAHN, of Louisiana.
• Death of THOS. STARR KING.
March 5.
• Secretary CHASE, in a letter to Hon. JAS. C. HULL, of Ohio, withdrew his name as a Presidential candidate.
March 8.
• Special election in New-York State, resulting in allowing soldiers to vote.
• Election in New-Hampshire.
• Gen. GRANT visited Washington.
March 9.
• Formal presentation of the Lieutenant-General’s commission to Gen. GRANT by the President.
• A skirmish took place near Suffolk, Va., in which colored troops were engaged.
• An expedition from Yorktown, Va., to the vicinity of Kings and Queens Court-house met and dispersed a body of rebels.
March 10.
• Gen. GRANT arrived at the headquarters of the Army of the Potomac.
• Pilatka, Fla., occupied by our troops.
• An expedition left Vicksburgh, Miss., for Fort De Russey, La.
• Emancipation Report adopted by the Virginia Constitutional Convention at Alexandria.
March 11.
• Fight with guerrillas on the Atchafalaya River, La.
March 13.
• A portion of our fleet arrived before Alexandria, La., and demanded its surrender, which was complied with.
March 14.
• FORT DE RUSSEY, ON THE RED RIVER, LA., ATTACKED AND CAPTURED by Union forces under Gen. SMITH.
March 15.
• Official order issued, promulgating the President’s call for 200,000 more troops and ordering a draft for any deficiency, on the 15th of April.
• Gov. SEYMOUR signed the Police Bill and the Commissioners were sworn in.
March 16.
• Rebel guerrillas attacked a train from Nashville, near Estelle Springs, Tenn.
• The rebels shelled from a camp, near Bennett’s Ferry, on the Cumberland.
• Rebel attack on our forces at Skull Creek, near Hilton Head, frustrated.
March 17
• Rebel night raid on Magnolia, Fla.
March 19.
• Attempt of a body of rebels to land near Port Royal Ferry, S.C.
March 20.
• Rebel attack on Jenkins’ Island and Spanish Wells, Hilton Head, S.C. frustrated.
March 21.
• Engagement near Teachoes, La.
• The rebels defeated at Nachitoches, on the Red River, La.
March 22.
• Gen. THAYER, with an army of 5,500 men, left Fort Smith, Arkansas, to cooperate with Gen. STEELE’s army.
March 23.
• Gen. STEELE’s army left Little Rock, Arkansas.
• Order reorganizing the Army of the Potomac.
March 24.
• Surrender of the Union garrison at Union City, East Tennessee, after repulsing the rebels, 2,000 strong, three times.
March 25.
• Attack on Paducah, Ky., by the rebels. The city partially fired.
• Death of Hon. OWEN LOVEJOY.
March 26.
• President LINCOLN issued a proclamation defining the Amnesty Proclamation. Gen. FRANKLIN’s forces reached Alexandria, La.
March 28.
• The advance of Gen. BANKS’ army left Alexandria, La.
• Copperhead riot at Charleston, Ill.
• Battle on Cane River, La., thirty-five miles above Alexandria. The rebels defeated.
March 29.
• A rebel force crossed the Cumberland River at Eddyville.
March 30.
• Engagement in Arkansas with 1,200 rebels, who were routed and pursued ten miles.
March 31.
• An expedition to Mount Elba and Longview, Ark., returned to Pine Bluff, having destroyed a large amount of rebel property.
APRIL.
April 1.
• Gen. GRANT visited Fort Monroe.
• Fight near Snyder’s Bluff, on the Yazoo.
April 2.
• Fight between GRIERSON’s and the rebel FORREST’s cavalry, near Summerville, Tenn.
April 4.
• Fight at Roseville, Ark.
• Gunboat expedition up the Chickahominy.
• Gen. GRANT returned to Washington.
• Opening of the great Sanitary Fair in New-York.
April 5.
• Fight between gunboats and guerrillas at Hickman, Ky.
• Gen. GRANT left Washington for the Army of the Potomac.
April 7
• Brisk fighting in Louisiana.
April 8.
• The Senate passed a resolution to submit to the Legislatures of the States an amendment of the Constitution, abolishing slavery.
• BATTLE NEAR MANSFIELD, LA. The rebel Gen. TAYLOR attacked. Our army, unexpectedly, came on the rebels in full force. Our troops were entrapped, surrounded and flanked. They fell back, but their retreat was impeded by wagons, and the retreat became a rout.
April 9.
• BATTLE OF PLEASANT HILL, LA. A severe battle, our troops falling back in the night.
• The rebels attempted to blow up the United States steam frigate Minnesota before light in the morning.
April 10.
• Death of Hon. W.S. THAYER, Consul-General to Egypt.
April 11.
• Gen. BANKS’ army all reached Grand Ecore, La.
• The rebels repulsed in an attack on Roseville, Ark.
April 12.
• MASSACRE OF NEGRO SOLDIERS AT FORT PILLOW, TENN. The rebels drove in our pickets just before sunrise. In the afternoon, a flag of truce was sent by the rebels, with a demand to surrender in twenty minutes. This being refused, the rebels rushed from positions treacherously gained, and carried the fort, after which they slaughtered, indiscriminately, men and women, white and black.
April 13.
• Rebel Gen. BUFORD appeared before Columbus, Ky., and demanded its unconditional surrender, threatening, in case of refusal, to give no quarter to negro soldiers. The enemy retired without an attack.
• A portion of BANKS’ army attacked near Blair’s Landing, La. The rebels repulsed with slaughter.
April 14.
• The surrender of Paducah, Ky., again demanded by the rebels.
• Skirmish and defeat of the rebels in Kentucky.
April 15.
• Gen. MOSBY’s force suddenly appeared near Bristow Station, Ga.
April 16.
• Gen. THAYER’s force from Fort Smith, Ark., joined the main army at Prairie d’Anne.
April 17
• Bread riot by females in Savannan, Ga.
• The rebels in force assaulted Plymouth, N.C., but were repulsed with considerable loss.
April 18.
• A rebel ram came to within a few miles of Plymouth, N.C., and attacked our fleet, sinking the Smithfield and another gunboat.
• The rebels attempted to blow up the frigate Wabash, blockading Charleston, N.C.
April 19.
• Fort Wessels, Plymouth, N.C., evacuated by our troops.
April 20.
• Gen. STEELE’s army entered Camden, Ark.
• The rebels stormed Fort Williams, Plymouth, N.C., carrying it, and capturing Gen. WESSELS and 2,500 men. Massacre of negro troops.
• PLYMOUTH SURRENDERED TO THE REBELS.
April 21.
• Successful expedition to Hasonborough, N.C.
April 22.
• The rebels captured the gunboat Petrel on the Zazoo River.
• Our troops left Nachitoches and Grand Ecore for Alexandria, by land.
April 23.
• Sharp fight on Cane River, La., near Chetersville.
• BRISK ENGAGEMENT NEAR CAMDEN, ARK.
• The rebels were several times repulsed, but carried the day.
April 24.
• The rebels made an impetuous charge on the rear of BANKS’ army in Louisiana. They were repulsed, but made another charge, and, after a two hours’ battle, were driven back at all points.
April 25.
• A train of 240 wagons, of Gen. STEELE’s army, captured by the rebels while on its way to Pine Bluff, Ark.
• Gen. BANKS’ army reached Alexandria on its retreat.
April 26.
• Gen. STEELE left Camden for Little Rock, Ark.
• The rebels in strong force attacked our gunboats in Louisiana.
April 28.
• Little Washington, N.C., evacuated by our troops.
April 30.
• The President approved a joint resolution raising duties on imports 50 per cent.
• Gen. STEELE’s army in Arkansas crossed the Saline River, after a fight with the rebels.
MAY
May 1.
• Death of Commodore W.D. PORTER.
• A cavalry expedition returned to Vienna, Virginia, after having an encounter with MOSBY’s guerrillas, and after destroying Madison Court-house, Virginia.
• Gen. STEELE’s army forty miles from Little Rock, Arkansas. His cavalry reached that city.
May 2.
• ADVANCE OF THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC COMMENCED.
• Gen. MEADE issued an order regarding soldiers who claimed that their time of enlistment had expired, announcing the penalty of mutiny as instant death.
• WEST POINT, VIRGINIA, OCCUPIED BY OUR FORCES. Gen. STURGIS’ cavalry encountered a band of the rebel FORREST’s men near Bolivar, Tennessee, and after a severe fight defeated them.
May 3.
• THE CROSSING OF THE RAPIDAN OF THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC EFFECTED, without opposition, at Culpepper, Germania and Ely’s fords.
• The Secretary of the Navy sentenced Admiral WILKES to be reprimanded and suspended for three years for insubordination, & c.
May 4.
• The crossing of the Rapidan by the Army of the Potomac continued.
• Gen. MEADE issued an address to the Army of the Potomac on the commencement of their march. Gen. WARREN’s headquarters at the Wilderness.
• A fleet of transports on Hampton Roads commenced embarking troops.
• Rebel raid into Princeton, Kentucky.
May 5.
• BATTLE OF THE WILDERNESS COMMENCED.
• A day of terrific fighting on most difficult ground in the Wilderness, near Chancellorsville, Va. Night closed in without any definite result. Gen. HAYS killed.
• Gen. BUTLER’s army passed Fortress Monroe in transports on their way up the James River.
• Gen. KAUTZ forced the Blackwater, burnt the railroad bridge at Stony Creek, cutting BEAUREGARD’s forces in two.
• Naval engagement between the rebel ram Albermarle and our fleet near the mouth of the Roanoke River.
• Skirmish at Thoroughfare Gap, Va. BURNSIDE’s cavalry attacked the enemy on their passage through the Gap.
May 6.
• BATTLE OF THE WILDERNESS CONTINUED.
• Another day of terrible fighting, resulting in the falling back of LEE’s army. Gen. WADSWORTH killed. The rebel Gen. LONGSTREET wounded. Our wounded, who had been removed to Fredericksburgh, fired on by citizens.
• Gen. BUTLER’s forces effected a successful landing without resistance.
May 7
• GEN. GRANT’s ARMY IN PURSUIT OF LEE.
• Having marched fifteen miles in the night of the 6th, it was, in the morning, in position at Todd’s Tavern.
• Battle near Petersburgh, Va., between Gen. BUTLER’s army and the rebels.
• GEN. SHERMAN REPORTED THAT GEN. THOMAS HAD OCCUPIED TUNNEL HILL, GA., and that the rebels had taken position at Buzzards’ Roost Pass, north of Dalton, Ga.
May 8.
• Gen. HANCOCK’s corps passed through Spottsylvania Court-house at daylight, and at noon our headquarters were twenty miles south of the battlefield of the 6th.
• BATTLE OF SPOTTSYLVANIA COURT-HOUSE, VA., COMMENCED. The armies near Spottsylvania Court-House, engaged from 8 to 12 M., at which time our forces gained the point for which they contended. At 6 P.M., two fresh divisions were thrown in, and after a severe engagement of an hour and a-half, the rebel position was carried and their first line of breastworks occupied.
• General engagement at Mill Creek Gap, Ga.
• Our troops held possession of Fredericksburgh, Va.
May 9.
• BATTLE OF SPOTTSYLVANIA COURT-HOUSE, VA., CONTINUED.
• LEE’s army made a stand, but no general engagement occurred in the morning. Maj.-Gen. SEDGWICK killed. The fight in the evening was brought on by HANCOCK, who crossed the River Po, and established himself on the south bank. President LINCOLN issued a proclamation, announcing that enough was known respecting the success of GRANT’s army to claim especial gratitude to God, and recommending that all patriots unite in thanksgiving and prayer. Gen. BUTLER reported that his army had landed at Bermuda Landing, and was in a strong position. HIS FORCES DEFEATED A PORTION OF BEAUREGARD’s ARMY UNDER GEN. HILL. The fight commenced at noon and continued till night. The rebels driven back three miles.
• The railroad between Richmond and Petersburgh in our possession.
• Night attack on Gen. BUTLER’s lines. The rebels repulsed.
• Gen. SHERIDAN marched around the rebel right flank, and reached the North Anna River in safety in the evening. In the night he destroyed a great quantity of rebel stores, & c.
May 10.
• BATTLE OF SPOTTSYLVANIA COURT-HOUSE CONTINUED. A general advance of our army ordered at 5 A.M. A tremendous conflict ensued. In the afternoon an attack was made on the rebel batteries. After the assault had continued some time it was found that the rebel batteries could not be carried without great loss, and the effort for the time was abandoned. The battle ceased about 9 P.M., and was one of the most terrible and bloody of the war.
• Gen. SHERIDAN reported that he had turned the rebel right, reached their rear, and destroyed from eight to ten miles of railroad, and other property.
• Gen. SHERIDAN crossed the South Anna River.
• Gen. AVERILL’s force fought a battle near Wytheville, Va.
• Secretary STANTON reported that Gen. MCPHIRSON was within seven miles of Resaca, Ga.
• Gen. SHERMAN in front of Buzzard Roost Gap, Ga.
May 11.
• The armies under GRANT and LEE engaged with varied success until 11 A.M., when our line was somewhat advanced. Gen. LEE proposed a cessation of hostilities for 48 hours, to bury the dead, which Gen. GRANT refused. Gen. GRANT reported to the War Department, that after six days’ fighting the result was much in our favor, declaring that he intended “to fight it out on this line if it took all Summer”.
• After three days of skirmishing we drove the rebels back to Rocky Ridge and Buzzard Roost Mountain, Ga.
• Gen. SHERIDAN captured Ashland Station, destroying a large amount of stores. HE ATTACKED GEN. STEWART AT YELLOW TAVERN, NEAR RICHMOND AND PENETRATED THE FIRST AND SECOND LINES OF THE REBEL DEFENCES.
May 12.
• THE BATTLE BETWEEN GRANT’s AND LEE’s ARMY RENEWED FIVE MILES BELOW SPOTTSYLVANIA COURT-HOUSE, VA. Gen. HANCOCK opened the battle and made a brilliant assault on A.P. HILL’s division, which he routed. Gen. GRANT reported that the day closed leaving between 3,000 and 4,000 prisoners in our hands for the day’s work, including two general officers and over thirty pieces of artillery. This day’s battle was a decided Union success. In the night LEE abandoned his position.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s army encamped at Walnut Grove and Gaine’s Mills.
• Gen. BUTLER’s army engaged.
May 13.
• GEN. BUTLER’s ARMY ADVANCED TOWARD PETERSBURGH, VA.
• Skirmishing with the rebels in the afternoon.
• Gen. MEADE issued a congratulatory address to his army. The rebels in his front fell back early in the morning, our troops following.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s forces encamped at Bottom’s Bridge.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army in line of battle in Sugar Valley.
May 14.
• GEN. “Baldy” SMITH CARRIED THE FIRST LINE OF REBEL WORKS AT PETERSBURGH, VA. The rebels attacked the Fifth Corps, Army of the Potomac, but were finally driven back with severe loss, after a furious cannonade. Our forces then charged the rebel lines.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s FORCES ACTIVELY ENGAGED. Gen. HOOKER’s corps attacked by the rebel Gen. HOOD’s division. The rebels repulsed. General battle, which lasted till midnight, each party holding its respective position.
May 15.
• BATTLE OF RESACA, GA. An all-day battle, in which we were successful. The rebels forced to evacuate Resaca. Gen. JOHNSTON retreated from our front in the night.
• Gen. SIGEL fought a battle at Newmarket, Va. The rebels successful. Our forces fell back to Strasburgh, Va. Gen. BANKS’ gunboats arrived at Fort de Russey, La.
May 16.
• The rebel army encamped around Spottsylvania Court-house, Va.
• The rebels in force attacked Gen. “Baldy” SMITH’s lines, and forced them back with considerable loss.
• GEN. BUTLER’s FORCE ATTACKED BY TROOPS FROM PETERSBURGH. Furious fighting. The rebels made a desperate onslaught in a fog, but were repulsed.
• Resaca, Ga., occupied by Gen. SHERMAN.
May 17
• Gen. KAUTZ reached City Point, Va., returning from his raid on the Danville Railroad.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army at Colburn, Ga.
• Gen. BANKS’ forces reached Semmesport, La.
May 18.
• HEAVY ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN THE ARMIES IN VIRGINIA. Gen. HANCOCK charged the enemy and carried the first line of rebel intrenchments.
• Gen. SHERMAN reached Adairsville, Ga., where he was engaged in skirmishes.
• Secretary STANTON announced that a draft would be ordered to take place July 1.
• A pretended proclamation of the President, calling for 400,000 men, and announcing the Spring campaign closed, published in the Journal of Commerce and the World.
• The two papers suppressed.
• Gen. A.J. SMITH’s army had a spirited engagement.
May 19.
• Gen. EWELL attempted to turn GRANT’s right, but was repulsed.
• Gen. SHERMAN advanced on the enemy, who retreated.
• Kingston, Ga., reached.
• Gen. SHERMAN pushed a column as far as Casville, Ga.
May 20.
• Gen. BUTLER’s forces engaged.
• Gen. GRANT commenced a new flank movement.
• Gen. HUNTER placed in command of the Department of West Virginia.
• Arrest of HOWARD, the forger of the bogus proclamation.
May 21.
• Gen. HANCOCK’s forces entered Bowling Green, Va. Milford reached by our troops.
May 22.
• ROME, GA., OCCUPIED BY GEN. SHERMAN without opposition.
May 23.
• Gen. GRANT’s army moved to the North Anna, closely following LEE’s army. The rebels attacked but were repulsed.
May 24.
• Gen. GRANT’s army at Mount Carmel Church, Va. Our army engaged, and 1,000 prisoners taken. Gen. BUTLER’s position at Wilson’s Wharf attacked, but the rebels repulsed. Gen. SHERMAN resumed his march from Kingston, Ga.
May 25.
• BATTLE OF DALLAS, GA., COMMENCED.
• A sharp a bloody fight between HOOKER’s corps of SHERMAN’s army and HOOD’s rebel division. Our army gained two miles and a favorable position. A reconnoissance up the Ashepoo River. Department of the South.
May 26.
• BATTLE OF DALLAS, GA., CONTINUED. Our army withdrawn to the north side of the North Anna River, Va., in the night, and moved toward Hanovertown. Secretary STANTON reported that the rebels held a strong position between the North and South Anna Rivers. Gen. J.G. FOSTER assumed command of the Department of the South.
May 27
• Gen. GRANT’s army all in motion. THE BATTLE OF DALLAS, GA., CONTINUED. Severe fighting on SHERMAN’s left. SHERMAN’s headquarters at Dallas.
• Gen. SHERIDAN took possession of Hanover Ferry and Hanoverton, Va.
May 28.
• BATTLE OF DALLAS, GA., CONCLUDED. The rebels suffered severely, leaving 2,000 dead and wounded in our hands. Gen. MCPHERSON’s corps drove back the rebels with great loss.
• TWO DIVISIONS OF GEN. GRANT’s ARMY HAD A SEVERE ENGAGEMENT.
May 29.
• The rebels made a night attack on SHERMAN, but were repulsed.
• Gen. “Baldy” SMITH’s command arrived at Fortress Monroe from Bermuda Hundreds on its way to join Gen. GRANT.
May 30.
• The rebels attacked the left wing of GRANT’s army but were easily repulsed with considerable slaughter. Gen. HANCOCK’s division attacked the rebels and drove them from their intrenched skirmish line. At midnight, the rebels attacked HANCOCK, but were repulsed. Gen. WARREN’s corps engaged, near Bethesda Church, Va. Gen. GRANT reported that his army had successfully crossed the Pamunkey River.
• The rebels repulsed in an attack on Gen. BUTLER’s line. Gen. SMITH’s corps occupied White House, Va.
• Heavy skirmishing with SHERMAN’s army.
May 31.
• The rebels attacked Gen. SHERMAN’s army, but were repulsed after a three hours’ flight. Our left reached the railroad near Marietta, Ga.
• A hard fight near Hanover Court-house, Va.
• Battle between SHERIDAN’s and FITZ-HUGH LEE’s cavalry at Cold Harbor, Va. The rebels defeated, and SHERIDAN retained possession of the place.
• Another artillery attack on BUTLER’s forces.
• Nomination of JOHN C. FREMONT and JOHN COCHRANE for President and Vice-President, by the Cleveland Convention.
JUNE
June 1.
• BATTLE OF COLD HARBOR, VA.
• Our corps at Cold Harbor attacked the rebels at 5 P.M., and carried the enemy’s works on the right. The rebels attacked the corps not engaged in the assault, but were repulsed.
• BURNSIDE’s advance a mile and a half from Mechanicsville, Va.
• Gen. MCPHERSON’s corps of SHERMAN’s army moved to the front of the rebels at New Hope Church. The rebels shelled our hospitals.
• Gen. BUTLER’s left wing attacked. Spirited fight resulting in a rebel repulse.
• Steamer Pocahontas sunk at sea by collision, and 40 lives lost.
June 2.
• Gen. SCHOFIELD’s and HOOKER’s corps of SHERMAN’s army pushed forward toward Marietta, Ga.
• Our cavalry took possession of Allatoona Pass, Ga.
June 3.
• BATTLE OF THE CHICAHOMINY.
• A short but terrible battle. Gen. GRANT assaulted the rebels at 4:30 A.M., driving them from their intrenchments at all points, but without gaining any decisive advantage. At 7 P.M. the rebels attacked. The battle lasted with great fury half an hour, at the expiration of which the rebels were repulsed. The blockader Water Witch captured by the rebels in Warsaw Sound.
June 4.
• Gen. SHERMAN thirteen miles from Marietta, Ga. The rebels, discovering our forces moving around their right flank, abandoned their position. Considerable skirmishing.
June 5.
• The rebels attacked our forces after dark, near Coal Harbor, in a fog, but were disastrously repulsed.
• BATTLE OF PIEDMONT, WEST VIRGINIA. Our forces under Gen. HUNTER came on the rebels in force at Piedmont, 15 miles north of Staunton, Va., and after a brief and spirited fight, whipped them.
• The rebels before SHERMAN evacuated their position.
June 6.
• An assault at midnight on BURNSIDE’s corps repulsed.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army moved toward Marietta, Ga.
• Gen. HUNTER pursued the rebels through Staunton, West Virginia.
June 7
• Gen. SHERIDAN crossed the Pamunkey.
• Engagement between our torts and the rebel batteries on Sullivan and James Islands, S.C.
• Assembling of the National Union Convention at Baltimore.
June 8.
• Nomination of ABRAHAM LINCOLN and ANDREW JOHNSON by the Union Convention for President and Vice President of the United States.
• Capture of Mount Stirling, Ky., by the rebel JOHN MORGAN. MORGAN entered Paris, Ky.
• Burning of the steamer Berkshire on the Hudson.
June 9.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s cavalry developed the position of the enemy in a line along the hills from Kenesaw to Lost Mountain.
• SHERIDAN’s cavalry started on a raid.
• MORGAN’s guerrillas whipped at Mt. Stirling, Ky.
• President LINCOLN informally accepted a renomination.
June 10.
• Lexington, Ky., entered by Morgan’s forces.
• Attack on Cynthiana, Ky., commenced.
• Gen. STURGIS’ expedition defeated by the rebels at Guntown, south of Corinth, Miss.
• Gen. HUNTER’s army advanced from Staunton, Va.
• GEN. KAUTZ CHARGED THE REBEL WORKS AT PETERSBURGH and carried them, penetrating to near the town, but, supporters not coming up, withdrew.
June 11.
• Cynthiana, Ky., captured by the rebel Gen. JOHN MORGAN, after a pretty severe fight. Gen. BURBRIDGE attacked and totally defeated the rebels.
• THE MOVEMENT OF GRANT’s ARMY TO THE SOUTH SIDE OF RICHMOND COMMENCED.
• Gen. SMITH’s corps marched to White House and embarked for Bermuda Hundreds. The other corps crossed the Chickahominy.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s forces had an obstinate engagement at Trevilian Station near Richmond.
• They drove the rebels from successive lines of earthworks.
• Gen. HUNTER’s army reached Lexington, Va.
June 12.
• Gov. LETCHER’s house burned by HUNTER’s troops.
June 13.
• Gen. SHERIDAN destroyed the railroad from Trevillon Station to Lorraine Court-house, near Richmond.
June 14.
• Very heavy skirmishing between SHERMAN’s army and the rebels; the position of our army changed in the night.
June 15.
• GEN. SMITH ASSAULTED AND CARRIED THE PRINCIPAL LINE OF THE ENEMY BEFORE PETERSBURGH.
• Gen. FOSTER reported that five general officers of the United States had been placed under fire at Charleston, S.C., by the rebels, asking an equal number of rebel officers to place under fire in retaliation.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army engaged all day in skirmishing.
June 16.
• CANNONADING ALONG THE WHOLE OF SHERMAN’s LINE.
• The greater portion of both armies were engaged before noon. The rebels compelled to evacuate a splendid position near the base of Lost Mountain.
• Heavy firing at night, between GRANT’s and LEE’s armies.
• Gen. HUNTER’s army entered Liberty.
• The Cummings’ Point, S.C., (Union) batteries shelled by rebel batteries.
June 17
• THE NINTH CORPS CARRIED TWO MORE REDOUBTS AT PETERSBURGH, VA.
• Gen. HUNTER’s forces engaged at Quaker Church, Va.
June 18.
• SEVERE BATTLE NEAR LYNCHBURGH, VA.
• Our forces charged, were repulsed, and charged again. Finding the enemy’s position too strong, and numbers too great, our forces commenced falling back. Our forces advanced close to Petersburg Va.
• The rebels before Gen. SHERMAN gave way at night, abandoning their works in front of Kenesaw Mt.
June 19.
• GREAT NAVAL BATTLE BETWEEN THE ALABAMA AND KEARSARGE, OFF THE HARBOR OF CHERBOURG, FRANCE. The Alabama sunk and Capt. SEMMES saved by an English yacth.
June 20.
• THE REBELS MADE SEVEN DISTINCT ASSAULTS ON SHERMAN’s LINES in a desperate attempt to take the position at Kenesaw Mountain, which they had lost the day before.
• A rebel force attacked our troops at White House, Va., but were repulsed.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s advance arrived at White House, Va.
June 21.
• THE REBELS MADE A FIERCE ATTACK ON GEN. HUNTER’s REAR.
• SKIRMISHING near White House, Va.
• Manoeuvring of GRANT’s army.
• Lively skirmishing. Our advance interrupted.
• A cavalry expedition under Gen. WILSON, left Bermuda Hundreds.
June 22.
• THE SECOND CORPS ATTACKED NEAR THE WELDON RAILROAD. A severe engagement. The rebels forced back in a charge by the Sixth Corps. Our forces not successful in the day’s battle.
• Gen. WILSON’s cavalry crossed the Weldon Railroad at Ream’s Station, and commenced destroying the track and other property there.
• SEVERE ENGAGEMENT IN SHERMAN’s ADVANCE. A victory won by his army.
• Arrest of ISAAC HENDERSON, Navy Agent at New-York.
June 23.
• At daylight an advance of our whole line near the track of the Petersburgh and Weldon Railroad, was ordered.
• A part of our cavalry reached the junction of the Lynchburgh and Danville Railroad, and destroyed the track.
• The rebels assaulted Gens. SCHOFIELD’s and HOOKER’s Corps of SHERMAN’s army. Our advance pressed forward. NIGHT ATTACK ON THE REBEL WORKS AT KENESAW MOUNTAIN, GA.
June 24.
• Batteries of the Eighteenth, Fifth and Second Corps opened on Petersburgh, Va. Gen. BURNSIDE’s Corps attacked. The attack a failure. Our lines advanced half a mile. TERRIBLE ARTILLERY ATTACK ON THE RIGHT FLANK OF THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.
• Gen. PILLOW demanded the surrender of Lafayette, which was refused and the rebels repulsed.
• Severe skirmishing before Kenesaw Mountain, Ga.
June 25.
• An attack on BURNSIDE’s line at 11 P.M. Pretty severe engagement between our cavalry and the rebels at the Chickahominy River. Raid on SHERMAN’s rear by 2,000 rebels.
• Destruction of railroad by WILSON’s cavalry continued at Drake’s Station.
• Engagement at Roanoke Station.
June 27
• BATTLE OF KENESAW MOUNTAIN, GA. An unsuccessful attack made by our forces on the rebels. Gen. MCPHERSON’s corps attacked the rebels at the southwest end of Kenesaw Mountain. Gen. THOMAS also attacked further south. Firing along the whole line. Neither attack succeeded. Formal acceptance of a renomination by President LINCOLN.
June 30.
• Hon. SALMON P. CHASE resigned his position as Secretary of the Treasury. President LINCOLN sent to the Senate the nomination of DAVID TOD, of Ohio, as Secretary of the Treasury.
• Gen. KAUTZ’s division of WILSON’s cavalry force re-entered our lines, returning from their great raid.
JULY
July 1.
• Gov. TOD having declined the appointment as Secretary of the Treasury, his nomination was withdrawn, and that of WM. PITT FESSENDEN substituted.
• An expedition left Hilton Head, S.C., in the direction of North Edisto River.
• The southern end of James Island, S.C., occupied by our forces.
July 2.
• The expedition from Hilton Head disembarked at Seabrook Island.
• An unsuccessful attempt to take the rebel Fort Johnson on the north end of James Island.
July 3.
• Our army entered Marietta, Ga.
• A rebel force appeared near Martinsburgh, Va.
• A part of the expedition from Hilton Head repulsed.
• The rebels overtaken by SHERMAN, two miles south of Marietta, Ga.
July 4.
• The rebels took possession of Bolivar City, half a mile from Harper’s Ferry, on their advance into Maryland, where they were attacked. Gen. SIGEL arrived at Sandy Hook. Gen. MULLIGAN evacuated Bolivar Heights.
• The rebels made a raid on Point of Rocks, Md.
• Naval operations in Stono River.
July 5.
• The President issued a proclamation declaring martial law in Kentucky and suspending the action of the writ of habeas corpus.
• Secretary FESSENDEN sworn in.
• An expedition started from Lagrange, Tenn., in pursuit of the rebel FORREST.
July 6.
• Secretary WELLES addressed a dispatch to Capt. WINSLOW, of the Kearsarge, in recognition of his services in the destruction of the pirate Alabama.
July 7
• Our forces ordered to evacuate Harper’s Ferry by Gen. SIGEL. Rebel raiders near Frederick, Md. The rebels checked at Monocacy Bridge.
• Proclamation issued by President Lincoln appointing the first Thursday in August as a Fast Day.
July 8.
• Harper’s Ferry reoccupied by our forces.
• The rebel pirate Florida, on our coast, captured the bark Golconda.
• Capture of Platte City, Mo., by guerrillas.
July 9.
• BATTLE AT MONOCACY, Md., lasting from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Our forces overpowered and forced to retreat in disorder.
• Proclamation issued by President LINCOLN giving his views on reconstruction and his reasons for not signing a bill passed by Congress providing for the same.
• The Florida, continued her depredations on our coast.
• Our forces on John’s Island, S.C., twice repelled a rebel assault.
• Gen. SHERMAN reached the Chattahoochee.
• Gov. BROWN, of Georgia, ordered all the militia of the State into active service.
July 10.
• A portion of the rebels encamped at Rockville, Md.
• A Union cavalry expedition left Decatur.
July 11.
• THE REBELS NEAR WASHINGTON, D.C. Capture by the rebels of a railroad train at Magnolia Station, between Philadelphia and Baltimore. The rebels captured Maj.-Gen. FRANKLIN, who was on the train. Burning of Gunpowder Bridge by the rebels.
• Mayor GUNTHER protested against sending the militia from New-York City, in response to a call from the President.
July 12.
• ENGAGEMENT NEAR FORT STEVENS, ONE OF THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. The rebels driven off.
• Gov. SEYMOUR issued a general order, directing the Commanders of regiments of the National Guards to hold themselves in readiness for immediate service.
• Gov. PARKER, of New-Jersey, issued a proclamation calling on the people of his State to organize for 30 days’ service.
July 13.
• Battle at Tapaluci, Tenn.
July 14.
• Arrival of Maj.-Gen. FRANKLIN in Baltimore, having escaped from the rebel raiders.
July 15.
• Engagement with the rebel FORREST in Tennessee.
July 16.
• A rebel force captured the Federal stockade at Brownsboro, on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad.
July 17
• Gen. SHERMAN’s command moved forward to within five miles of Atlanta, Ga. His advance crossed the Chattahoochie River.
• Gen. JOS. E. JOHNSTON turned over the command of the rebel army at Atlanta to Gen. J.B. HOOD.
• Severe fight near Grand Gulf.
• Indian raid on our post at Fort Larned.
July 18.
• Gen. J.B. HOOD assumed command of the rebel army at Atlanta, Ga.
• Decatur, Ga., occupied by our forces.
• President LINCOLN issued an order for a draft of 500,000 men to take place immediately after Sept. 5, the term of service to be one year, volunteers to be credited till Sept. 5.
• HORACE GREELEY reached Niagara Falls to hold a conference with some self-constituted Confederate Commissioners in Canada. The President sent his famous “To whom it may concern” dispatch.
• Fights at Snicker’s Gap.
• Attack by Indians on a train near Fort Larned.
July 19.
• Our forces reached Peachtree Creek, four miles north of Atlanta, Ga. They were attacked by HOOD’s troops.
July 20.
• THE REBELS ASSAULTED SHERMAN’s ARMY THREE TIMES — each time being repulsed. Our army was engaged all day and drove the rebels steady on into their intrenchments.
• Gen. SMITH’s forces reached La Grange, Tenn.
• Gen. “Baldy” SMITH took leave of his command before Petersburgh, Va., and Gen. MARTINDALE assumed command.
• Gen. AVERILL attacked and dafeated the rebel EARLY in front of Winchester, Va.
July 21.
• The rebel lines contracted close to Atlanta.
• Skirmishing on the James River.
July 22.
• GREAT BATTLE BEFORE ATLANTA.
• The rebels assaulted our lines near Atlanta with great fury seven times, and were as often repulsed after a terrible struggle. Our loss was 3,521; the rebel loss estimated at 10,000.
• Gen. MCPHERSON was killed.
• Skirmishing in front of BURNSIDE’s corps of the Army of the Potomac.
July 23.
• Burial of the dead before Atlanta.
• Atlanta shelled.
• Heavy fighting in the Shenandoah Valley.
July 24.
• The cavalry expedition which left Decatur July 10, arrived at Marietta, Ga., having been completely successful in a raid on the Montgomery and West Point Railroad.
• Fighting in the Shenandoah Valley.
July 25.
• The rebels again occupied Martinsburgh, Va.
• A reconnaissance of our forces near Helena, Ark.
July 26.
• BATTLE NEAR HELENA, ARK.
• Our forces at first were unsuccessful, but afterward repulsed the enemy and charged through their lines.
• Engagement at Point of Rocks, Md.
• The rebels made an attempt to flank Gen. BUTLER’s position.
• Gen. THOMAS issued a congratulatory address to his army.
• Gen. STONEMAN dispatched a cavalry force to destroy the Macon and Western Railroad. They succeeded in destroying 18 miles of track, and in inflicting other damage.
• Our gunboats went on an expedition up Grand Lake, La., and destroyed a number of rebel flatboats.
July 27
• Our army attacked while crossing James River.
• A spirited engagement, in which the rebels were driven back. Our troops attacked and carried their position.
• Gen. O.O. HOWARD assumed command of the Department and Army of the Tennessee, lately commanded by Gen. MCPHERSON.
• Our cavalry, under Gens. STONEMAN and MCCOOK, started on a raid on the communications of the rebel army in Georgia.
July 28.
• THE SIEGE OF ATLANTA COMMENCED.
• The Fifteenth Corps of SHERMAN’s army assaulted the rebels in force and defeated them. The rebel army under HOOD was repeatedly hurled against SHERMAN’s army. The rebels suffered severely without gaining any advantage.
• An expedition sent into North Carolina.
• Gen. HOOKER relieved of his command at his own request.
• Our gunboats in Louisiana destroyed a large amount of rebel lumber and two saw-mills.
July 29.
• The rebels crossed the Potomac on their raid into Maryland and Pennsylvania.
• Our cavalry occupied Fayetteville, Ga.
• They cut the Atlanta and Macon Railroad.
• Fights with the rebels near Morganzia, La.
July 30.
• EXPLOSION OF AN IMMENSE MINE BY OUR TROOPS IN FRONT OF BURNSIDE’s POSITION BEFORE PETERSBURGH. Its explosion was the signal for the discharge of every piece of artillery on our line from the Appomatox to the extreme left. After the discharge of the artillery our army advanced and assaulted the rebel works, but after a desperate attempt to carry them was repulsed.
• THE REBELS ENTERED CHAMBERSBURGH, PENN., where the rebel Commander demanded $500,000 under threat of burning the city. His demand not being complied with, the city was burned.
• Our cavalry cut off, 40 miles from Atlanta.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s celebrated letter on the recruiting of negroes in rebel States.
July 31.
• Gen. STONEMAN and part of his command captured by the rebels.
• The rebels occupied Frederick, Md.
AUGUST
August 2.
• Gen. BANKS issued an order enlisting all able-bodied colored men between 18 and 40 years of age.
August 3.
• Return to Norfolk, Va., of a cavalry expedition sent into North Carolina, July 28, after having visited five counties and captured considerable property.
• Gov. SEYMOUR addressed Secretary STANTON, complaining of an excessive quota for New-York City.
August 4.
• Fast Day.
• A Government transport fired on by rebel batteries on the James River.
• Exchange of the Union and rebel officers under fire at Charleston, S.C.
• Gen. KELLY repulsed the rebels at New-Creek, Md. The fight continued until after dark, the rebels retiring in the night.
August 5.
• GREAT BATTLE AT THE ENTRANCE OF MOBILE BAY. Fort Gaines opened on our fleet at about 7 A.M., the monitor Tecumseh having opened the attack a short time before. The rebel ram Tennessee captured after one of the fiercest naval battles on record. In the night the rebels evacuated and blew up Fort Powell. The monitor Tecumseh was blown up by a rebel torpedo.
• Explosion of a rebel mine near Petersburgh, Va.; but little damage done. A TERRIFIC FIGHT IN FRONT OF PETERSBURGH, lasting from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. It commenced by a charge of the enemy, which was repulsed with slaughter.
• Gov. CURTIN, of Pennsylvania, issued a proclamation, announcing that the rebel army had again crossed the Potomac, and occupied Hagerstown, Md.
August 6.
• COMMODORE FARRAGUT SHELLED FORT GAINES, MOBILE HARBOR. He issued a congratulatory order to his command.
• Battle of Atlanta. The rebels made a demonstration on the Sixteenth Corps, and were heavily punished, and driven back.
• Indian massacre near Beaver Creek.
August 7
• BOMBARDMENT OF FORT GAINES CONTINUED. The rebels proposed to surrender.
• Gen. AVERILL overtook the rebels near Moorefield, in the Shenandoah Valley, and attacked them with great success, routing the rebels, capturing their artillery, a large number of prisoners, horses and arms.
August 8.
• SURRENDER OF FORT GAINES TO COMMODORE FARRAGUT.
• Gen. SHERIDAN assigned to the command of the troops in the Shenandoah Valley.
• Steamboat Vanderbilt sunk in the Hudson.
August 9.
• Terrible explosion of a boat loaded with ammunition at City Point, Va.
• Heavy shelling of Atlanta.
August 10.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s army skirmishing near Winchester, Va. Sharp fight near Martinsburgh.
• Steamer Empress fired into by rebel batteries on the banks of the Mississippi.
• Sharp skirmish near Abbeyville, Miss.
August 11.
• Secretary STANTON replied to Gov. SEYMOUR alleging that his claim of an excessive enrollment in New-York was not well founded.
August 12.
• The Tallahassee bonded the bark Fuliote, burnt the schooner Spokelane and ship Adriatic, scuttled the brig Billow, bonded for $30,000 the schooner Robert E Pecker.
• Attack of guerrillas on the gunboat Reliance, in Northumberland County, Va.
August 13.
• Gen. GRANT threw a powerful force, under Gen. HANCOCK, across the river at Deep Bottom. HANCOCK took position 10 miles from Richmond. Gen. BIRNEY assaulted the rebel was works in his front.
• Gen. BURNSIDE relieved.
• Guerrillas attacked Selma, Ky.
• Gen. SMITH attacked the rebels at Hurricane Creek, Miss., and defeated them.
• The Tallahassee scuttled the bark Glavomore, and burned the schooner Lamot Dupont.
August 14.
• Fighting near Richmond.
• The rebel Gen. WHEELER demanded the surrender of Dalton, Ga. which was refused. The rebels entered the town, but were kept at bay by the garrison.
• The Tallahassee scuttled the ship James Littlefield.
August 15.
• Fighting near Richmond.
• Our garrison at Dalton, Ga., was reinforced, and the rebels driven off in confusion.
• The Tallahassee scuttled schooners M.A. Howe, Howard, Floral Wreath, Restless, Etta Caroline, and bonded schooner S.K. Harris.
August 16.
• Fighting on the north bank of the James. The engagement resulted favorably, though not decisively, for us. The enemy somewhat driven back from their position.
• Cavalry fight between a division of SHERIDAN’s army and the rebels, near Front Royal, Va.
• Fight near Chattanooga.
• The Tallahassee scuttled the bark P.C. Alexander, and burned the schooners Leopold, Pearl, Sarah Louisa and Magnolia.
August 17
• The Tallahassee scuttled the schooner North American, and bonded the brig Neva for $17,500.
August 18.
• A FURIOUS ATTACK ON BURNSIDE’s CORPS, NEAR PETERSBURGH, which was repulsed with great loss to the rebels.
• Gen. WARREN moved his corps across the Weldon Railroad, in doing which he was engaged in considerable fighting.
• The Tallahassee arrived at Halifax after having burned the schooners Josiah Acorn, Diadem, Sea Flower and brig Roan.
August 19.
• THE REBELS DROVE IN WARREN’s PICKETS AND FORCED BACK TWO DIVISIONS OF OUR ARMY. A heavy fight took place, resulting in reestablishing our lines and capturing many prisoners. Our troops were surprised, but recovered their lost ground.
August 20.
• The Tallahassee sailed from Halifax.
• Surg.-Gen. HAMMOND dismissed from the service and disqualified from holding office.
August 21.
• THE REBELS MADE THREE DESPERATE CHARGES ON OUR LINES ON THE WELDON RAILROAD, but were repulsed with heavy loss.
• Brisk engagement near Charlestown, Va. The rebels charged on our lines, and after a sharp struggle our skirmishers gave way.
• ATTACK ON MEMPHIS, TENN. The city entered by rebel cavalry.
August 22.
• CANNONADE OF OUR WORKS NEAR PETERSBURGH. The rebels charged, but finding themselves in a trap, retreated in confusion. The rebels disappeared from our front on the Weldon Railroad.
• Return of KILPATRICK to SHERMAN’s lines from a successful raid.
August 23.
• Gen. WARREN advanced his line one mile toward Petersburgh.
• FORT MORGAN, MOBILE BAY, SURRENDERED UNCONDITIONALLY. By its surrender we captured 200 prisoners, 60 pieces of artillery and a large quantity of material.
August 24.
• Skirmish on SHERIDAN’s left.
• Reconnaissance of Gen. CROOK’s command in the Shenandoah Valley.
August 25.
• SEVERE BATTLE ON THE WELDON RAILROAD, NEAR REAM’s STATION. A desperate attempt of the rebels to retake the road. HANCOCK’s corps was several times attacked, the enemy being each time repulsed. At 5:30 P.M. a combined attack on his centre and left was repulsed after one of the most desperate battles of the war, the enemy withdrawing, leaving their dead and wounded on the field. Our forces afterward fell back.
• Gen. BUTLER’s picket-line driven in, but re-established.
• Severe battle with SHERIDAN’s army.
August 26.
• The rebel Gen. EARLY attempted to cross the Potomac, but was driven back by AVERILL.
• The rebels in SHERIDAN’s front fall back.
August 27
• Guerrillas defeated at Shelbyville, Ky.
August 28.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army reached the West Point Railroad at Red Oak, thirteen miles from Atlanta, and began the destruction of the road from that point.
• Advance of our army in pursuit of EARLY.
August 29.
• Meeting of the Democratic Nominating Convention at Chicago.
August 30.
• The Army of the Tennessee skirmished considerably with rebel cavalry.
August 31.
• GREAT BATTLE NEAR ATLANTA.
• During the forenoon, our artillery kept up a cannonade to provoke the rebels to an assault. In the afternoon the rebels assaulted our lines, but were repulsed with great loss. The rebel loss in the attack on RAMSOM’s and LOGAN’s lines estimated at 3,000.
• In the evening the Fourteenth Corps struck the railroad, five miles south of Jonesboro. The work of destruction commenced immediately.
• GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN and GEORGE H. PENDLETON nominated by the Chicago Convention for President and Vice President.
SEPTEMBER
September 1.
• THE BATTLE OF ATLANTA CONTINUED.
• A brilliant charge was made at 5 P.M. by Gen. DAVIS’ force, resulting in the discomfiture of the rebels and surrender of a large number. Great destruction by the rebels of large magazines of stores accumulated at Atlanta. They blew up, in addition to other things, 80 car-loads of ammunition. Gen. SLOCUM’s corps assaulted the enemy’s works around the city in the afternoon. Panic and evacuation of the city.
September 2.
• ATLANTA, GA., OCCUPIED BY SHERMAN’s ARMY AT 11 A.M.
• Sharp fighting near Martinsburg, Va.
September 3.
• Gen. SHERMAN issued a congratulatory order on the occupation of Atlanta.
• The rebels handsomely beaten near Berryville, Va.
• Rebel cavalry attacked by Gen. MILROY near Murfreesboro, Tenn.
September 4.
• Gen. GILLEM SURPRISED JNO. MORGAN’s BAND, AND KILLED MORGAN AT GREENVILLE, TENN.
• The rebels near Murfreesboro retreated.
September 5.
• Steamer Elsie captured in running the blockade at Wilmington.
• The President issued a proclamation, recommending that Sunday, Sept. 11, be observed as a day of Thanksgiving.
September 6.
• During a battle between the French and CORTINAS and Mexican forces, near Brownsville, Texas, Col. FORD, the rebel Commander at that point, came down from Texas, on the Rio Grande, with a large drove of cattle for the French, and seeing that they were engaged with CORTINAS, opened on the Mexican rear.
• The rebels and French repulsed CORTINAS. CORTINAS afterward crossed the Rio Grande, into Texas, and raised the American flag.
September 7
• The rebels routed at Readyville, Tenn.
• Hon. REUBEN E. FENTON nominated for Governor of New-York.
September 8.
• Brownsville, Texas, attacked by CORTINAS, and the rebels driven from the town.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN accepted the nomination for the Presidency.
• Gen. SHERMAN ordered the removal of the inhabitants of Atlanta, and proposed a truce of ten days.
September 9.
• Spirited attack on the rebel pickets near Petersburgh, in the night.
September 10.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s forces in the Shenandoah Valley attacked at Darksville, Va.
• Gov. BROWN, of Georgia, recalled the militia of the State from HOOD’s army.
• Gen. SHERMAN replied to a communication from HOOD, charging him with “studied and ungenerous cruelty” in ordering the evacuation of the city by its inhabitants. A truce for ten days declared by Gen. SHERMAN.
September 11.
• An expedition left Fort Morgan, near Mobile, and proceeded up White River, destroying a large amount of lumber at Smith’s Mills.
September 12.
• Gen. SHERMAN replied to a remonstrance of the Mayor of Atlanta against removing all the inhabitants of the city.
September 13.
• Attack on the rebels near Occoquan Creek by some of SHERIDAN’s forces. A South Carolina regiment captured.
September 14.
• Secretary STANTON ordered the draft to be commenced Sept. 19.
• Gen. SHERMAN ordered the people of Atlanta to evacuate the city.
September 16.
• A large body of rebel cavalry made a raid on our reserve cattle herd, opposite Harrison’s Landing, and succeeded in carrying off the entire herd.
• Departure of an expedition under Gen. ASBOTH on a raid into Western Virginia.
September 19.
• BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL, VA. A great battle fought by SHERIDAN in the Shenandoah Valley. SHERIDAN made the attack and won a splendid victory, capturing over 2,500 prisoners, together with nine battle-flags, and five pieces of artillery. The rebel Gens. GORDON and RHODES were killed, and three other general officers wounded. All of the rebel killed and most of the wounded fell into our hands.
• The steamers Philo Parsons and Island Queen seized by a band of rebels on the Canadian frontier.
September 20.
• Gen. SHERIDAN crossed Cedar Creek, having pursued the rebels thirty miles.
September 21.
• Gen. SHERIDAN attacked the rebels beyond Strasburgh, Va., ard carried and held the crest of the hill occupied by them.
• FREMONT and COCHRANE withdrew their names as candidates for President and Vice-President.
September 22.
• BATTLE OF FISHER’s HILL, VA., in the Shenandoah Valley. Gen. SHERIDAN found the rebel army occupying a position which appeared almost impregnable. His forces, however, attacked and drove the rebels in the utmost confusion, capturing twenty pieces of artillery and a large number of caissons, artillery, horses, & c.
September 23.
• MONTGOMERY BLAIR resigned his office of Postmaster-General.
• A part of the rebel Gen. FORREST’s force, about four hundred strong, crossed the Tennessee River at Bates’ Landing.
• Our garrison at Athens, Ala., compelled to surrender.
September 25.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s advance passed beyond New-Market. His forces drove the enemy from Mount Jackson.
• The rebels at Luray, attacked.
• A force of rebel cavalry occupied Frederickstown, Mo., twenty miles east of Pilot Knob.
• Athens, Ala., occupted by the rebel Gen. FORREST’s troops.
September 26.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s headquarters at Harrisonburgh, Va.
• Our cavalry entered Stanton, Va., and destroyed a large quantity of rebel government property. They then proceeded to Waynesboro’, destroying an iron bridge over the Shenandoah and a large amount of property. Gen. EARLY’s rebel army routed and demoralized, fled through Brown’s Gap toward Gordonsville.
September 27
• Skirmish with FORREST’s troops in Tennessee.
• The rebels attacked our forces at Mineral Point, Mo.
September 28.
• The rebel Gen. FORREST at Fayetteville, on his way to intercept SHERMAN’s communications.
• Admiral PORTER issued his farewell order to the Mississippi Squadron.
September 29.
• Gen. ORD’s CORPS OF GRANT’s ARMY ADVANCED AND CARRIED A VERY STRONG FORTIFICATION AND LINE OF INTOENCHMENER BELOW CHAPIN’s FARM, taking fifteen pieces of artillery and 200 or 300 prisoners.
• Gen. BARNEY advanced from Deep Bottom and carried the New-Market Road.
• Mayor GUNTHER vetoed a resolution of the Common Council, to illuminate the city in celebration of our victories.
September 30.
• Gen. WARREN attacked and carried the rebel line on their extreme right, capturing a number of prisoners.
• Gen. MEADE moved from his left and carried the enemy’s line near Poplin Grove Church.
OCTOBER
• Gen. BUTLER’s forces assaulted the rebels in three columns near Chapin’s Farm.
October 2.
• The rebels attacked at Saltville, Va.
October 6.
• Gen. SHERMAN commenced moving back from Port Republic, Mount Crawford and Harrisonburgh, Va....the whole country from the Blue Ridge to the North Mountain was made untenable for the rebel army by destroying an immense quantity of stores, grain, & c.
• Clinton, La., taken by our troops.
October 7
• Gen. KAUTZ’ cavalry attacked by the rebels who suffered considerably. They afterward attacked BIRNEY’s division, who also repulsed them with very heavy loss. In the afternoon, Gen. BUTLER took the offensive and recaptured some intrenchments which had been taken from KAUTZ.
• The rebels appeared before Jefferson City, Mo.
• The advance of the rebels from the Osage River, Mo., spiritedly contested by our cavalry.
• Gen. SHERIDAN’s forces reached Woodstock, Va.
• CAPTURE OF THE PIRATE FLORIDA BY THE STEAMER WACHUSETT, in the Bay of St. Salvador, Brazil.
• A band of 200 rebels captured a steamboat and crossed into Kentucky.
October 8.
• The Fifth and Ninth Corps, Army of the Potomac, advanced their lines half a mile, driving the rebel skirmishers into their breastworks.
• The rebels drew up in line of battle near Jefferson City, Mo., but afterward moved off toward the west.
October 9.
• An engagement took place near Fisher’s Hill, Va., in which the rebels were defeated, leaving eleven pieces of artillery and other munitions of war.
October 10.
• Engagement with the rebel Gen. FORREST at East Point, Tenn.
• Reconnaissance to within three miles of Mobile.
October 11.
• Gen. CURTIS drove the rebels out of Independence, Mo.
• Skirmish near Fort Wilson, Tenn.
• The rebel Gen. BUFORD crossed the Cumberland River with 1,200 mounted men.
• Bloody fight with guerrillas near Winchester, Va.
• Successful reconnaissance from the Army of the Potomac to Stony Creek.
October 12.
• Death of Chief-Justice ROGER B. TANEY.
• Gen. HOOD demanded the surrender of Resaca, Ga., threatening, in case of resistance, to take no prisoners.
October 13.
• Reconnaissance in force from the Army of the James.
• Attack on Resaca, Ga. The rebels repulsed.
• Engagement at Greenville, East Tennessee.
October 15.
• The rebel army under LONGSTREET having appeared near Strasburgh, Va., Gen. SHERIDAN advanced and found them drawn up in four lines of battle, but, on charging, the rebels fled.
October 16.
• HOOD’s army at Lafayette.
• Gen. SHERMAN took Ship’s Gap.
October 17
• The rear of Gen. HOOD’s army left Lafayette, going South. The Secretary of War telegraphed that Gen. HOOD, after striking the railroad near Dalton and Resaca, had fallen back before SHERMAN without fighting, abandoning his movement on our line of communication.
• Arrest in Baltimore of a number of merchants, charged with contraband trade with the rebels.
October 18.
• Gen. BLUNT, with 2,000 cavalry and four howitzers, entered Lexington, Mo.
• Death of Major-Gen. D.B. BIRNEY.
October 19.
• BATTLE OF CEDAR CREEK, SHENANDOAH VALLEY. Gen. SHERIDAN’s army was attacked before daylight and its left turned and driven in confusion, with a loss of twenty pieces of artillery. Gen. SHERIDAN afterward arrived on the field and drove the rebels, taking 48 pieces of artillery and many prisoners, gaining a great victory. SHERIDAN pursued the rebels to Mount Jackson, which he reached in the night.
• The rebel Gen. PRICE attacked Gen. BLUNT at Lexington, Mo., with an overwhelming force, and after a sharp fight drove him from the city. Gen. BLUNT fell back to the Little Blue River, fighting desperately, and retarding the advance of the enemy.
• The rebels entered Mayfield, Ky.
October 20.
• Capture of the St. Albans robbers.
• Skirmishing between the Little and Big Blue River, Mo.
October 21.
• A very gallant fight between Little Blue River and Independence, Mo. Our troops fought PRICE’s entire army five hours. The Union forces evacuated Independence, falling back on the Big Blue.
October 22.
• Gen. CURTIS telegraphed from Kansas, Mo., that he had been pressed all day, and that in the afternoon the rebels passed around his flank, when CURTIS gave him heavy blows for several hours.
• Col. JAMIESON was attacked at Bryan Ford, Mo., by a heavy column of rebels, at 10 A.M. At 3 P.M., the rebels forced the ford. Our troops fought the rebels until after dark, driving them four miles. Gen. PLEASONTON pursued PRICE, with 2,000 men, fought him on the battle-field of the day before, drove him from Independence, and pursued him sharply. PLEASONTON captured a large number of prisoners and three pieces of artillery.
• The President issued an order thanking Gen. SHERIDAN for gaining the victories in the Shenandoah.
October 25.
• Fighting in Missouri. The rebels badly whipped.
October 26.
• Gen. DOUBLEDAY’s Court-martial ordered to Baltimore to try the soldiers’ voting fraud cases.
October 27.
• An advance in force, on a reconnaissance, made by WARREN’s Corps of GRANT’s army. In the evening the enemy attacked HANCOCK’s Corps vigorously, but were repulsed. The purpose being accomplished, our troops were withdrawn to nearer their former lines.
• The rebel ram Albemarle sunk by Lieut. CUSHING, in the Roanoke River.
• Arrest of Col. NORTH on charges of fraud in the matter of soldiers’ votes.
October 28.
• Gen. DIX issued an order requiring all refugees from the South to register their names, declaring that those who refused or neglected to obey the order, should be treated as spies.
• Gen. GILLEM had a fight with the rebels at Norristown, East Tenn., completely routing them, and capturing a number of prisoners and pieces of artillery.
• Gen. GRANT’s army returned to its old quarters.
• Fight with the rebel Gen. PRICE at Newtonia, Mo.
• A rebel force of 2,500 attacked Fayetteville, Ark., but was repulsed with heavy loss.
October 29.
• Maryland proclaimed a Free State by Gov. BRADFORD.
October 30.
• Our fleet shelled Plymouth, N.C.
October 31.
• Nevada admitted as a State by proclamation of the President.
• The commissioners appointed by Gov. SEYMOUR to investigate the soldier voting frauds, had an interview with the President and Secretary of War.
• Capture of the rebel batteries, and their ordnance and ordnance stores, at Plymouth, N.C.
NOVEMBER
November 2.
• Gov. SEYMOUR issued a proclamation relative to the election.
• Gen. DIX issued an order concerning fraudulent voting.
November 3.
• The rebel army under HOOD attempted to cross the Tennessee, near the mouth of the Blue Water, and were repulsed by Gen. SHERMAN.
• The rebels bombarded Fayetteville, Ark.
• Commencement of Col. NORTH’s trial.
November 4.
• Engagement on the Tennessee River.
• The siege of Fayetteville, Ark., by the rebels, raised.
• Revelation by one of the conspirators of a plot to overthrow the Government, release and arm the rebel prisoners, and kill Gov. MORTON, of Indiana.
November 5.
• A midnight attack by the rebels on our works southeast of Petersburgh, Va. A brisk fight and temporary success on the part of the rebels.
• Gen. BUTLER assumed command of the troops arrived and to arrive in New-York City to protect the city during election.
November 6.
• Attack on our pickets before Richmond.
• Gen. CANBY wounded in Louisiana.
November 7
• A rebel attack on our pickets south of Atlanta.
November 8.
• Presidential election. RE-ELECTION OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN AS PRESIDENT, AND ELECTION OF ANDREW JOHNSON AS VICE-PRESIDENT.
• Gen. MCCLELLAN resigned his commission in the United States Army.
• Atlanta attacked by the rebels under Gen. IVERSON.
November 9.
• Gen. SHERMAN issued his orders regulating the march of his army through Georgia, commanding his troops to forage on the country, to abstain from trespassing except when molested by guerrillas, & c., when corps commanders were authorized to devastate the surrounding country.
• Advance and repulse of a small rebel force near Fort Steadman, army of the Potomac.
November 10.
• Arrest on board of the vessel, of a party of rebels, conspiring to seize the Panama Railroad Co.’s steamship Salvador, on the Pacific.
November 11.
• Reconnaissance by the rebels in the Shenandoah Valley.
• Commencement of the burning of Atlanta, Ga.
November 12.
• The rebels in the Shenandoah Valley attacked our forces but were disastrously repulsed.
• Burning of Atlanta continued. The public buildings destroyed.
November 13.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s right wing, under Gen. HOWARD, moved out of Atlanta and began its march through Georgia.
November 14.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s left wing left Atlanta.
• Union reverse at Bull’s Gap.
• A division of PRICE’s rebel army assaulted the works at Fayetteville, Ark., but were repulsed.
November 15.
• The last of SHERMAN’s forces left Atlanta.
November 16.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s right wing passed through Jonesboro, Ga.
• The rebel cavalry, under WHEELER, engaged our cavalry at Bear Creek Station.
• Jackson, Ga., reached by SHERMAN’s right wing.
November 17
• A night attack on our lines near Richmond.
• A column of SHERMAN’s army occupied McDonough, Ga.
• Out cavalry occupied Griffin, Ga.
• SHERMAN’s left wing reached Covington, Ga., the cavalry pushing on to Social Circle.
November 18.
• SHERMAN’s cavalry drove WHEELER out of Barnesville, Ga.
• Gov. BROWN and the Georgia Legislature fled from Milledgeville, Ga.
• Gen. BUTLER rejoined the Army of the James.
• Exchange of prisoners at Savannah; commencement of the reception of our men.
November 19.
• Gov. BROWN, of Georgia, issued a proclamation, ordering a levy en masse to oppose SHERMAN.
• The advance of BEAUREGARD’s army at Waynesboro, Tenn. BEAUREGARD’s headquarters at Corinth, Miss., and HOOD’s at Florence.
• MOSBY’s force captured a party of Union cavalry.
November 20.
• Gen. SHERMAN ATTACKED EAST MACON, Ga. His troops crossed the Ocmulgee River, and his cavalry advanced to Griswoldville, eight miles east of Macon, Ga.
November 21.
• Heavy skirmishing near Cumberland Gap.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s RIGHT WING CAPTURED MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. Gordon, Ga., occupied. SLOCUM’s column reached Etonville, Ga.
November 22.
• BATTLE OF ROOD’s HILL, Va., between SHERIDAN’s and EARLY’s forces. The rebels being found in superior force, our troops retired.
• The rebel armies under HOOD and BEAUREGARD, having been reinforced by 9,000 men, advanced and encamped 20 miles from Pulaski, Tenn.
• SHERMAN’s rear guard at Griswoldville attacked. Gen. SLOCUM’s column reached Milledgeville, Ga., where both wings united.
November 23.
• Our forces withdrew from Pulaski, Tenn.
• SHERMAN’s cavalry occupied Toomsboro, on the Georgia Central Railroad.
• Fight near Griswoldville, Ga.
• HOOD’s infantry at Waynesboro and Lawrenceburgh.
• Fight at the Oconee River, Ga.
November 24.
• Second day of fighting up the Oconee River, Ga.
• Severe skirmishing near Columbia, Tenn.
• SHERMAN’s rear guard left Milledgeville, Ga.
• SLOCUM’s column at Devereaux, Ga.
• Our troops made a flank Movement on Jackson, Miss. Thanksgiving Day.
November 25.
• ATTEMPTED BURNING OF A LARGE NUMBER OF HOTELS IN NEW-YORK CITY, BY REBEL SPIES.
• Severe fighting west of Columbia, Tenn., between HOOD’s and THOMAS’ armies.
• A large number of Federal prisoners continued at Saulsbury, N.C., attempted to escape, but were overpowered by the guard, who opened upon them with grape and canister.
• Cavalry battle at Sandersville, Ga.
• The Mayor of Milledgeville, Ga., sent a dispatch to Macon for provisions, as the citizens were utterly destitute.
November 26.
• Columbia, Tenn., evacuated by Gen. THOMAS’ army.
• Gen. SLOCUM’s column of SHERMAN’s army at Warrenton, Ga.
• Gen. HOWARD’s column reached Sandersville, Ga., and cut the railroad.
• Gen. DIX issues an order, declaring those engaged in the attempt to burn New-York spies, and that in case of capture they should be tried by court-martial, and on conviction be executed “without the delay of a single day.”
November 27
• Our stores and sick and wounded removed from Columbia, Tenn., to Nashville.
• Capture of ROGER A. PEYOR near Petersburg, Va.
• Gen. CANBY’s troops reached and destroyed Big Black Bridge on the Mississippi Central Railroad.
November 28.
• Our forces evacuated Columbia, Tenn.
• The rebels surprised and captured Fort Kelly on New-Creek, Va.
November 29.
• Sharp fight at Spring Hill, 12 miles south of Franklin, Tenn.
• Our cavalry were driven back on the infantry, who checked the progress of the rebels.
• Gen. FOSTER’s expedition, cooperating with SHERMAN, landed at Broad River.
November 30.
• BATTLE OF FRANKLIN, TENN.
• The rebels attacked THOMAS’ army at Franklin, but were repulsed at all points with heavy loss. The rebels commenced advancing on our lines at 4 P.M. They charged furiously on our lines, but were driven back and a great victory gained. Gen. A.J. SMITH’s army passed through Nashville and reinforced THOMAS.
• Battle of Grahamsville, on the Charleston and Savannah Railroad.
• HOWARD’s column of SHERMAN’s army passed through Louisville, Ga.
• A cavalry expedition arrived at Tangipahoe, La.
• Hon. JOS. HOLT appointed Attorney-General.
DECEMBER
December 1.
• The armies near Nashville engaged in heavy skirmishing.
• Reconnaissance by Gen. GREGG from the Army of the Potomac. He captured Stony Creek Station and destroyed a considerable amount of stores.
• Rebel pickets attacked our lines at Bermuda Hundreds.
• Death of Hon. WM.L. DAYTON, United States Minister to France.
December 2.
• Gen. BRECKINRIDGE issued an order to husband arms, & c., and to glean lead from battle-fields.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s army passed through Millen, Ga., and encamped in its vicinity.
December 3.
• WHEELER’s cavalry attacked SHERMAN’s force on the Savannah Railroad, a few miles below Haynesboro.
• An expedition sent from Roanoke Island, N.C., which met with perfect success in destroying rebel property.
• Heavy skirmishing before Nashville, Tenn.
December 4.
• Lieut.-Com. FITCH defeated and drove the left wing of HOOD’s army on the Cumberland River, with heavy loss to the rebels. He also recaptured two transports.
• Capture of rebel works and cannon near Pocotaligo, S.C., by Gen. FOSTER’s troops.
• Cavalry battle in Georgia. SHERMAN’s army started for Savannah.
• Gen. DIX caused the arrest of sixty persons who were under suspicion of being connected with the attempt to burn New-York.
December 5.
• Meeting of Congress.
December 6.
• Heavy skirmishing near Nashville, Tenn.
• Rebels defeated near the Charleston and Savannah Railroad.
• Destruction of Pocotaligo Bridge on the same road.
December 7
• A cavalry expedition started South from the Army of the Potomac.
• Engagement near Murfreesboro, Tenn.
December 8.
• A cavalry force sent out on the left of the Army of the Potomac engaged in skirmishing.
December 9.
• Gen. HOWARD, of SHERMAN’s army, reported that the army had met with perfect success.
• Reconnaissance from the Army of the Potomac toward Hatcher’s Run.
• Charge on the rebel works at Jarrett’s Station, Va.
December 10.
• Gen. SHERMAN’s troops five miles from Savannah.
• Rebel reconnaissance toward the Army of the Potomac.
December 11.
• A messenger from SHERMAN’s army reached our fleet.
December 12.
• Arrival of Gen. HOWARD’s messengers at Hilton Head, S.C.
• Sailing from Fortress Monroe, in the night, of the transports of PORTER’s and BUTLER’s expedition for North Carolina.
December 13.
• DEPARTURE OF THE GREAT NAVAL EXPEDITION FROM FORTRESS MONROE.
• Fort McAllister, Savannah, carried by assault, with its garrison and stores.
• Sharp skirmishing near Nashville.
• The St. Albans robbers released by the Canadian Judge COURSOL.
• The rebels routed at Kingsport, Tenn.
• Gen. SHERMAN reported his arrived before Savannah without the loss of a wagon.
December 14.
• Gen. DIX issued an order on the occasion of the release of the St. Albans robbers, directing military commanders on the frontier to shoot down rebel marauders, and, if necessary, to pursue them into Canada.
• Interview between Gens. FOSTER and SHERMAN.
• An expedition threatening Mobile reached Pascagoula.
December 15.
• BATTLE OF NASHVILLE COMMENCED. General THOMAS attacked HOOD’s army at 9 A.M. Our lines advanced on the right five miles. The rebels were driven from the river, from their intrenchments, from a range of hills, on which their left rested, and forced back upon the right and centre. The rebels lost much artillery, many prisoners, and a whole line of earth works. In the night HOOD withdrew his right from the river.
• The rebel Gen. FORREST attacked Murfreesboro, Tenn.
• Our forces surprised the rebels at Glades’ Spring, Va., in BRECKINRIDGE’s rear.
December 16.
• BATTLE OF NASHVILLE CONTINUED. Our army again gained a brilliant victory, and put HOOD’s army to flight, with a loss in the two days estimated at 17,000 men and 51 cannon.
• A Union force occupied Pollard, 70 miles north of Mobile, and burned the Government and railroad buildings.
• Secretary STANTON announced that Gen. CANBY’s two expeditions cooperating with SHERMAN, had met with perfect success.
• The rebels attacked and defeated 16 miles from Wytheville, Southwestern Virginia.
December 17
• Gen. MCCOOK defeated the rebel Gen. LYON in a sharp fight at Ashbvville, Ky.
• Gen. THOMAS reported continued success in the pursuit of HOOD. An engagement six miles beyond Franklin, Tenn.
• Our troops entered Wytheville, Southwestern Virginia, destroyed the depot and other buildings, and injured the lead mines in the vicinity.
• A detachment of Union artillery cut up near Millwood, Va.
December 18.
• Gen. THOMAS reported that the enemy had been vigorously pursued, but had studiously avoided attack. A few additional prisoners captured.
• Gen. E.D. MCCOOK defeated a part of the rebel Gen. LYON’s force at Hopkinsville, Ky.
December 19.
• Gen. THOMAS reported that little additional progress had been made, on account of stormy weather. Cavalry skirmish and capture of three guns at Spring Hill.
• The President issued a proclamation calling for 300,000 troops to fill deficiencies in the last draft, and ordering a draft in all districts which had not filled their quotas on February 15.
• Gen. CUSTER’s Cavalry started on an expedition up the Shenandoah Valley.
December 20.
• Rearrest of one of the St. Albans robbers.
• Gen. SHERMAN demanded the surrender of Savannah. The city was evacuated by HARDEE’s army in the night. The rebels blew up their rams at Savannah.
• Capture of rebel salt works at Saltville, Va.
December 21.
• CAPTURE OF SAVANNAH, GA., BY GEN. SHERMAN, with 25,000 bales of cotton, a large amount of stores, and 150 cannon.
• Recapture of two of the St. Albans robbers.
• Admiral FARRAGUT appointed Vice-Admiral.
• Admiral PORTER’s fleet appeared before Wilmington.
• Gen. CUSTER’s force in the Shenandoah Valley engaged with rebel cavalry. The rebels drove in our men, but were afterward defeated.
December 22.
• Fighting near Gordonsville, Va.
• Loss of the United States transport North American, by foundering at sea. 194 lives lost.
December 23.
• Fight near Gordonsville, Va.
December 24.
• ATTACK ON FORT FISHER, WILMINGTON, BY PORTER’s FLEET. The bombardment lasted from 1 P.M. till night. A furious cannonade.
December 25.
• ATTACK ON FORT FISHER CONTINUED. Our troops landed under cover of the fire from the fleet, and were immediately engaged. In the night our infantry attacked the fort, but were repulsed. The land force reembarked.
• Gen. THOMAS’ army 21 miles south of Columbia.
December 26.
• Heavy cannonading on Broad River, between SHERMAN’s and HARDEE’s forces.
December 27
• Destruction of a fort and artillery at Chicasaw, Ala. The means of crossing the Tennessee River, below Florence, by Gen. HOOD, destroyed.
1865
CHRONOLOGICAL RECORD OF THE MILITARY, NAVAL AND POLITICAL EVENTS OF THE YEAR.
A YEAR OF VICTORY AND MOURNING.
JANUARY.
January 1.
• The City of New York awarded DAVID G. FARRAGUT a $50,000 gift in thanks for his victory at Mobile.
January 2.
• ABRAHAM LINCOLN held his annual reception for government workers and members of the diplomatic corps.
January 4.
• Federal troops under Major General ALFRED H. TERRY embarked on transports for a second attempt to capture Fort Fisher at the mouth of the Cape Fear River below Wilmington, N.C.
• REUBEN E. FENTON was inaugurated governor of New York.
• G. G. HASKINS was elected Speaker of the New York Legislature.
January 6.
• The House of Representatives opened debate on the passage of the Thirteenth Amending to the Constitution abolishing slavery. It had previously passed the Senate.
January 7.
• Navy Secretary GIDEON WELLES and Admiral FARRAGUT met with President LINCOLN in the White House to discuss the Battle of Mobile Bay.
• ULYSSES S. GRANT relieved BENJAMIN BUTLER of his command of the Army of the James. GRANT was concerned because BUTLER is the most senior Major General in the army, he would assume command in GRANT’s absence.
January 9.
• A Constitutional Convention in Tennessee adopted an amendment abolishing slavery in the State pending a vote by the citizens.
January 10.
• Debate over the Thirteenth Amendment continued in House of Representatives.
January 11.
• The Missouri Constitutional Convention accepted the abolition of slavery.
January 12.
• The “great armada” of DAVID DIXON PORTER with eight thousand soldiers under Major General TERRY got underway from Beaufort, North Carolina and arrived off the mouth of the Cape Fear River for a second attempt to capture Fort Fisher.
• FRANCIS P. BLAIR, Sr. met with JEFFERSON DAVIS in Richmond on a peace mission.
January 13.
• The second attack on Fort Fisher below Wilmington, N.C. began. Fifty nine ships in the fleet commanded by DAVID DIXON PORTER fired some 20,000 shells into the fort.
• Following his disastrous invasion of Tennessee and repulse from Nashville, Confederate Lieutenant General JOHN BELL HOOD offered his resignation, which was accepted.
January 15.
• Federal troops under TERRY captured Fort Fisher. Following a lengthy bombardment by the ships of Rear Admiral PORTER’s fleet, TERRY’s soldiers attacked the northwest salient while a party of sailors and Marines attacked the northeast corner. The sailors and Marines were repulsed, but they allowed the soldiers to get inside the fort where, after severe hand-to-hand fighting, the Union prevailed.
January 16.
• BRAXTON BRAGG ordered the evacuation of the river forts below Wilmington.
• FRANCIS P. BLAIR, Sr. reported to Lincoln the results of his mission to Richmond, and gave LINCOLN a letter from DAVIS suggesting negotiations but which made a pointed reference to securing peace “to the two countries.”
• The Confederate Congress made ROBERT E. LEE commander-in-chief of all Confederate armies.
January 18.
• LINCOLN replied to DAVIS’s letter with one of his own in which he conspicuously referred to “our one common country” making it clear that negotiations for a separation are unacceptable.
January 19.
• WILLIAM T. SHERMAN ordered his army to march northward from Savannah, Georgia, into South Carolina.
• LINCOLN asked GRANT if he could find a place for ROBERT LINCOLN as a volunteer officer in his “military family.” Robert subsequently became a captain on Grant’s staff.
January 23.
• The Confederate James River Squadron under Flag Officer JOHN K. MITCHELL got underway in an effort to drive Union forces away from Richmond.
January 25.
• The CSS SHENANDOAH under the command of Confederate Navy Captain JAMES I. WADDELL put into Melbourne, Australia en route to its cruising ground in the North Pacific. It was received with great enthusiasm.
January 28.
• LINCOLN met with GRANT, SHERMAN, AND PORTER on board the steamer RIVER QUEEN on the James River. They discussed the war, and LINCOLN expressed his desire to shed as little blood as possible.
• In consequence of FRANCIS P. BLAIR’s mission, JEFFERSON DAVIS named commissioners to meet with Federal representatives for informal talks.
January 30.
• LINCOLN approved giving a pass to the Confederate commissioners to allow them to go to Fort Monroe for negotiations.
January 31.
• House of Representatives passed the Thirteenth Amendment. Having previously been passed by the Senate, it still had to be ratified by the States.
• ROBERT E. LEE was formally named commander-in-chief of the Confederate armies.
FEBRUARY.
February 1.
• Illinois was the first State to ratify the Thirteenth Amendment.
• SHERMAN’s army continued its campaign in South Carolina.
February 2.
• LINCOLN left Washington for a trip by sea to the front in Virginia.
February 3.
• In Hampton Roads, LINCOLN met with the Confederate commissioners on board the RIVER QUEEN. As the diminutive Confederate Vice President ALEXANDER STEPHENS took off one heavy coat after another, LINCOLN quipped that he had never seen so small a cob emerge from so large a husk. The Confederate emissaries ask for an armistice, but LINCOLN told them that all that is necessary to achieve peace is for the rebel armies to stop fighting.
• Three more States (Maryland, New York, and West Virginia) ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
• SHERMAN’s army crossed the Salkahatchie River in South Carolina.
February 4.
• LINCOLN returned to Washington after the Hampton Roads Conference.
February 5.
• Outside Petersburg, Virginia, Union forces of the II and V Corps assailled Confederate positions near Hatcher’s Run.
February 6.
• President DAVIS appointed former U.S. Vice President JOHN C. BRECKINRIDGE as Secretary of War to replace JAMES SEDDON.
• Fighting continues near Hatcher’s Run.
February 7.
• Maine and Kansas ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
• The fighting near Hatcher’s Run ended with Federals digging in at a new position. Active operations on the Richmond-Petersburg front ended for the winter.
February 8.
• In South Carolina, there was fighting along the Edisto River.
• Massachusetts and Pennsylvania ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
February 9.
• The unionist Virginia State government (in northern Virginia) ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
February 10.
• LINCOLN reported to Congress on the failure of the Hampton Roads peace conference.
• Confederate Navy Captain RAPHAEL SEMMES was promoted to Rear Admiral and put in charge of the James River flotilla.
• Ohio and Missouri ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
February 12.
• The official Electoral College vote gave LINCOLN 212 votes to GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN’s 21, and LINCOLN was re-elected President for a second term.
• Skirmishing continued in South Carolina as SHERMAN’s troops, moving on a wide front, continued their march northward.
February 14.
• SHERMAN’s troops crossed the Congaree River in South Carolina and moved toward the State capital at Columbia.
February 17.
• SHERMAN’s army occupied Columbia. That night, stockpiled cotton that had been set afire by evacuating Confederate cavalry under JOSEPH WHEELER, flamed up and started a conflagration that left much of the city in ashes. Confederates blamed Sherman; Sherman blamed the Confederate cavalry that initially set the fire. Some Union troops tried to put out the fires; others hindered their efforts. Some Union troops found liquor and become drunk. The entire episode became controversial on both sides.
February 18.
• SHERMAN added to the destruction of Columbia, S.C. by deliberately destroying the railroads, supply dumps, machine shops, and public buildings used by the Confederate government.
• The Confederates evacuated Charleston, South Carolina.
February 20.
• Union forces closed in on Wilmington, North Carolina after working their way up the Cape Fear River from Fort Fisher.
• The Confederate House of Representatives approved the enlistment of slaves in the army. They would earn their freedom only after the war, assuming a Confederate victory. The bill then went to the Senate.
February 22.
• Union soldiers captured the city of Wilmington, N.C.
• ROBERT E. LEE named JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON to command the Department of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida as well as Tennessee and Georgia, effectively giving him command of all units east of the Mississippi that were not in LEE’s army. JOHNSTON’s orders were to unify his troops and “drive back Sherman.”
• Tennessee voters approved a new State constitution abolishing slavery.
February 25.
• JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON assumed command of the remnants of the Army of Tennessee at Charlotte, N.C. His force numbered some 20,000 men, but they were scattered over a wide area. JOHNSTON wrote, “it would scarcely have been possible to disperse a force more effectually.”
February 26.
• SHERMAN’s army reached Hanging Rock, N.C.
February 27.
• In Virginia, Major General PHILIP SHERIDAN began his campaign to render the Shenandoah Valley incapable of providing support to Lee’s army.
• There was nearly constant skirmishing as SHERMAN’s army continued its northward march; JOHNSTON tried to unify his scattered forces.
MARCH.
March 1.
• SHERIDAN skirmished with Confederate forces under JUBAL EARLY in the Shenandoah Valley.
• SHERMAN’s forces skirmished with Confederates near Wilson’s Store, N.C.
• Wisconsin ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
March 2.
• SHERIDAN’s army won a skirmish at Waynesborough, Virginia. EARLY’s army was nearly destroyed.
March 3.
• On the last day of the lame duck Congress, the House passed the Freedman’s Bureau Bill.
• LINCOLN wrote GRANT telling him “to have no conference with General Lee unless it be for the capitulation of Gen. Lee’s army.”
March 4.
• LINCOLN was inaugurated for a second term as President. In his inaugural address, he closed with the stirring lines: “With malice toward none, with charity toward all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve a just and lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.”
• ANDREW JOHNSON was inaugurated Vice President.
March 7.
• SHERMAN’s army entered North Carolina.
• Union forces under JACOB D. COX took control of New Berne, North Carolina to use it as a base to supply SHERMAN’s army.
March 8.
• A Confederate force under BRAXTON BRAGG that had evacuated Wilmington, N.C., attacked JACOB COX’s force at Kinston, N. C. Though BRAGG’s force achieved some initial success, it failed to halt or slow the Federal advance.
• The Confederate Senate approved the enlistment of slaves in the Confederate army.
March 9.
• Fighting continued in the Battle of Kinston.
• Confederate cavalry under WADE HAMPTON and JOE WHEELER surprised Federal cavalry under JUDSON KILPATRICK near Monroe’s Cross Roads, and KILPATRICK had to escape in his underwear.
• Vermont ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
March 10.
• LEE writes DAVIS that he intended to implement the new law authorizing the enlistment of slaves as soon as possible.
March 11.
• SHERMAN’s army occupied Fayetteville, North Carolina, where it remained until March 14.
• Aware that JOHNSTON was in command of the Confederate troops in North Carolina, and anticipating greater resistance, he moved to bring his own scattered columns together.
March 13.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS signed the law authorizing black soldiers.
March 15.
• SHERMAN’s army moved from Fayetteville toward Averasboro, N.C.
March 16.
• In the Battle of Averasboro, SHERMAN’s left wing under Major General HENRY W. SLOCUM attacked the army of Confederate Lieutenant General WILLIAM HARDEE. HARDEE fell back toward Smithfield; his assignment had been to slow the Federal advance, and he moved to rejoin JOHNSTON’s main force.
March 18.
• The Confederate Congress adjourned its session, despite a plea from JEFFERSON DAVIS to remain in session.
• Elements of JOHNSTON’s army skirmished with SHERMAN’s forces as they approached Bentonville, N.C.
March 19.
• The Battle of Bentonville was the last major engagement between armies during the Civil War. JOHNSTON’s plan was to ambush the column commanded by HENRY SLOCUM. He blocked the road with BRAXTON BRAGG’s small army, and when SLOCUM’s men deployed to attack it, the forces of HARDEE and ALEXANDER STEWART assailed them in the flank. Though the Confederates achieved some initial success, Federal reinforcements soon turned the tide, and it was the Confederate army that had to give way. JOHNSTON himself called it a southern victory, but it had little impact on collapsing Confederate fortunes.
March 20.
• Federal cavalry commander GEORGE STONEMAN left with four thousand troopers on an extended raid through Tennessee, Virginia, and the Carolinas.
March 21.
• JOHNSTON, hemmed in on three sides by the growing Federal army, retreated northward from the Battlefield at Bentonville.
March 22.
• Union Major General JAMES HENRY WILSON began a cavalry raid through Alabama and Georgia, that included the capture of Selma, Alabama.
• SHERMAN ordered his army to concentrate on Goldsboro, N. C.
March 24.
• LEE prepared to try to break the Federal grip on Richmond and Petersburg by attacking a Federal strong point in the encircling line at Fort Stedman.
• LINCOLN, accompanied by his wife and son TAD, arrived by sea at Fort Monroe near Hampton Roads on another trip to the front. They then ascended the James River to Grant’s supply base at City Point, Virginia.
March 25.
• Lee launched an all-out assault on Fort Stedman, one of the strong points in the Federal line, in the hope of breaking the siege. The attack was led by Major General JOHN B. GORDON and though it was successful in taking the fort, GORDON’s outnumbered men could not hold it against a strong Federal counterattack. Worse, the Confederates lost four thousand men they could not afford, against Federal casualties of only 1,500.
• The failure of the assault exposed the weakness of Lee’s army, and GRANT determined to apply pressure all along the line.
• In Alabama, a Federal army under EDWARD CANBY, closed in on the forts defending the city of Mobile.
• LINCOLN visited GRANT’s headquarters, and Fort Stedman.
March 26.
• PHIL SHERIDAN’s army crossed the James River and achieved a junction with GRANT.
March 27.
• LINCOLN met with GRANT and SHERMAN on board the RIVER QUEEN in Hampton Roads, Virginia. They talked for two days, planning the final phase of the war.
March 28.
• DAVID DIXON PORTER joined the conference on board the RIVER QUEEN.
March 29.
• There was heavy skirmishing south of Richmond as GRANT tried to move around LEE’s right. A fight near Gravelly Run again exposed the weakness of LEE’s lines.
• STONEMAN’s cavalry raid continued; his troopers fought a skirmish near Wilkesboro, N.C.
• The USS OSAGE hits a “torpedo” or mine in the Blakely River, Alabama, and is sunk.
• LINCOLN remains at City Point, Virginia.
March 30.
• More skirmishing south of Petersburg at Gravelly Run and Hatcher’s Run near Dinwiddie Court House. LEE sent GEORGE PICKETT and his own nephew FITZHUGH LEE to a crossroads called Five Forks to halt the Federal advance.
• The cavalry raid of JAMES WILSON continued in Alabama.
March 31.
• More battles occurred south of Petersburg: At Dinwiddie Court House, fifty thousand Union soldiers under SHERIDAN assailed ten thousand Confederates. The Confederate line held, but that night, PICKETT pulled back toward Five Forks.
• WILSON’s cavalry wrecked the iron foundry at Montevallo, Alabama.
APRIL.
April 1.
• In the Battle of Five Forks, Federal infantry finally broke through the Confederate lines south of Petersburg. SHERIDAN believed that WARREN’s V Corps had been tardy in the attack and relieved him of his command (WARREN was subsequently exonerated). Nevertheless, the assault was successful and forced LEE to plan an immediate evacuation of Richmond and Petersburg.
• SHERMAN continued his advance northward in North Carolina.
• In Alabama, WILSON pursued NATHAN BEDFORD FORREST’s cavalry toward Selma.
April 2.
• The Confederate government evacuated Richmond.
• LEE’s army evacuated the city, too, with the men marching westward toward Lynchburg.
• Confederate Secretary of the Navy STEPHEN MALLORY ordered the destruction of the James River Squadron and directed its men to join General LEE’s army. The sailors were formed into a “naval brigade” commanded by Rear Admiral RAPHAEL SEMMES.
• In Alabama, WILSON’s cavalry defeated FORREST’s men in a series of small skirmishes and the Federals captured Selma.
April 3.
• Union troops entered Richmond. Regimental bands competed with one another to play various patriotic airs. The black residents of the city “danced and shouted” and hugged one another; the while citizens mostly stayed indoors.
• LEE’s army continued to march westward, with elements of GRANT’s army in pursuit.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS and his party headed south by rail to Danville, Virginia.
April 4.
• LINCOLN entered Richmond, walked its streets, and visited the Confederate White House where he briefly sat at JEFFERSON DAVIS’s desk. During the visit, the former slaves joyfully welcomed him and they fell to their kneews. The President told them “That is not right. You must kneel to God only.”
• LEE’s retreating army skirmished with its pursuers at Amelia Court House.
• In Alabama, WILSON’s cavalry occupied Tuscaloosa.
April 5.
• After a short rest, LEE’s army continued west toward Appomattox.
April 6.
• In an engagement at Saylor’s Creek, LEE’s army demonstrated confusion and perhaps a collapse of morale as some eight thousand men surrendered. With perhaps sixteen thousand men left, LEE continued his westward retreat.
April 7.
• GRANT wrote to LEE inviting him to consider a capitulation. LEE was cautious in his reply asking GRANT what terms he would consider on the “occasion of its surrender.”
• WILSON’s cavalry skirmished with FORREST in Alabama.
• Tennessee ratified the Thirteenth Amendment.
April 8.
• LEE found Federal forces blocking the road west to Lynchburg. Surrounded on both flanks with a large army in close pursuit, LEE held a council of war. It was agreed that they would test the strength of the enemy line to the west to see if they could break out of the encirclement. If it was only cavalry to their front, they might still escape.
April 9.
• A force of Confederates attacked the Federal position west of Appomattox Court House, and were repulsed by Union infantry. LEE wrote to GRANT to request “a suspension of hostilities pending adjustment of the terms of the surrender of this army.”
• GRANT and LEE met in the parlor of WILMER McLEAN’s house at Appomattox and agreed to terms of surrender.
April 10.
• LINCOLN was serenaded by crowds of citizens in Washington. When a band asked him for his choice of music, he requested “Dixie.”
April 11.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS arrived in Greensboro, North Carolina by rail.
• In Washington, LINCOLN addressed a cheering crowd, and suggested that the elective franchise might be extended to some Negroes, “the very intelligent” and those who had served in the army. Listening to him was the actor John Wilkes Booth, who was horrified by the thought of black voters, and vowed to “put him through.”
April 12.
• Mobile, Alabama surrendered.
• WILSON’s cavalry occupied Montgomery, Alabama.
• At Appomattox, there was a formal surrender ceremony as the Confederate troops lay down their arms.
• In Greensboro, DAVIS met with JOSEPH E. JOHNSTON and urged him to fight on, but JOHNSTON pressed him for authority to begin negotiations, and DAVIS agreed.
April 14.
• The same flag that Major ROBERT ANDERSON had lowered when he surrendered Fort Sumter four years earlier, was re-hoisted there during a formal ceremony in Charleston Harbor.
• ABRAHAM LINCOLN was fatally shot by John Wilkes Booth in Ford’s Theater.
April 15.
• LINCOLN died at 7:20 A.M.
• ANDREW JOHNSON was sworn in as President.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS headed south from Greensboro on horseback with a small cavalry escort.
April 17.
• SHERMAN and JOHNSTON met at the Bennett House near Durham, N. C. to begin negotiations. SHERMAN informed JOHNSTON of LINCOLN’s assassination. They discussed a surrender not merely of JOHNSTON’s army, but of all Confederate armies.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS arrived at Salisbury, N.C.
April 18.
• SHERMAN and JOHNSTON sign an agreement ending the war; it was subsequently disavowed by the national government in Washington, which was still reeling from the news of LINCOLN’s assassination.
April 21.
• LINCOLN’s body began its journey from Washington to Springfield for burial. En route, there were mourning ceremonies in most northern cities.
April 24.
• SHERMAN learned that the government had disavowed his initial agreement and informed JOHNSTON that he will resume hostilities. JOHNSTON asked for another meeting at the Bennett House.
April 25.
• JOHN WILKES BOOTH, fleeing southward, stops at the farm of RICHARD H. GARRETT near Port Royal, Virginia.
April 26.
• SHERMAN and JOHNSTON met for the second time at the Bennett House, and this time JOHNSTON surrendered his army, which, in the interim, had all but evaporated.
• Federal cavalry find JOHN WILKES BOOTH hiding in the barn at the Garrett Farm. When he refused to surrender, Sergeant BOSTON CORBETT shot him. BOOTH died a few hours later.
MAY.
May 10.
• JEFFERSON DAVIS was captured by Federal cavalry near Irwinville, Georgia. Surprised in the middle of the night, he threw on a cloak in the dark as he ran from his tent. It turned out to be his wife’s cloak, which led to stories later that he was caught wearing women’s clothes.
May 23-24.
• Washington D.C. hosted a huge parade honoring the Grand Army of the Republic: soldiers from both the eastern and western armies who paraded through the streets of the national capital in a celebration of victory and peace.
May 26.
• General EDMUND KIRBY SMITH formally surrendered all Confederate armies west of the Mississippi River.
JULY.
July 7.
• The surviving convicted conspirators of the LINCOLN assassination, MARY SURRATT, LEWIS POWELL, DAVID HEROLD, and GEORGE ATZERODT were hanged in the Old Arsenal Penitentiary in Washington D.C.
NOVEMBER.
November 6.
• The CSS SHENANDOAH dropped anchor in Liverpool, England, after a round-the-world cruise and hauled down its flag. It was the last Confederate surrender of the war.