Franklin: Franklin Rosenbery to John Abraham
Rosenbery, March 4, 1864
Summary:
Rosenbery recounts what he knows of an operation against the Confederates and
notes that war is a "reality" where he is but a mere "report" at home.
March 4, 1864
Camp Near Stephensburg, Virginia
2nd Corps-1st Division
Dear Father-
This evening I seat myself with pen in hand to inform you that your kind letter of the 27th came to hand this morning.
I was much rejoiced to know that you were all well. Through the Mercy and Goodness of God, I can thank that I am well-both in Soul and body. Hoping that these few imperfect lines may find you all enjoying the same blessings of health.
We are still in Camp yet, not knowing how soon we may get orders to go out on a reconnoiter. I do not think that we will make a general move till, May as we cannot move our artillery before that time through the swamps of Virginia. Although at this time the weather is very pleasant and has been for some five weeks.
We had some rain and a few pretty cold days. A few days ago it commenced to snow. The snow only fell about 1 inch deep. The weather here changes very soon. And it does not take very much snow or rain to make it very muddy.
I have not heard whether General Kilpatrick has returned to camp or not. I will know 'ere long if I live.
While the weather is pleasant no doubt the cavalry may make some raids; if they do then we will be very apt to support them. The raid that was made the 6th day of February, we supported them or as I say our Corps will support this present raids. The 6th Corps supports them while we are kept in readiness. We got orders to prepare 3 days rations last Sunday Morning at 7 O'clock and to be ready to march at a moment's warning.
On the 6th of February the time we marched to the Rapidan, General Warren, Our Corps Commander-while General Hancock is not here Warren is in his place, to make this plain as I can to you in my ignorant way of writing. General Caldwell commands the first Division.
Now, this is our Division. General Hays did command or was commander of the 3rd Division at that time. Well, General Warren, acting Corps Commander, while General Hancock is at home recruiting for our Corps. Warren told Hays to advance to the Rapidan and not to cross or attack the enemy. But him having his senses deranged with whiskey took the 3rd Division across. Made his men wade the river; Some of the men got drowned while crossing. Then he had to march by the flank in front of the enemy's artillery while they showered with grape and shell into the ranks of the 3rd Division. The report was 250 killed, wounded and missing. But I do not believe it.
The 3rd Division was not all across. Well, then, our Division stayed on this side of the river from where we stayed we could not stop the rebels. The object was to draw the rebels attention there while Kilpatrick would make a raid. You will understand there was only 2 Divisions on that reconnoiter here.
I will tell you how a Corps is divided. There is 4 Regiments in 1 Brigade. 4 Brigades in 1 Division and 4 Divisions in a Corps.
I cannot think but there was more men killed than was reported. I hope there was not that many killed.
Well, at home the war is only a matter of report but here it is a reality.
I have not heard from A. and Ashway for some time.
I sent a memorial of Our Company to Rachel some time ago. But I expect that it got lost, well, I think that the rebellion must soon totter and fall to rise no more. May the Lord hasten the time.
Well, I must close. You will soon here from me again. Rachel sent me some post stamps but they all are gone. If you can handily send me some you may send some.
Write soon. Give my respect to all inquiring friends.
My love I send to you all. Hoping if it is the Will of God to meet you all again on earth and if not His Will I hope to meet you all in Heaven.
Farewell for this time,
Franklin Rosenbery
