Franklin County: Diary of David W. Wagner (1864)
About David W. Wagner:
David Wagner was a 23-year-old farmer when he enlisted in the
107th
Pa. in 1862. In his diary he describes the movement of the
107th in
1864, and includes details about a Salisbury, North Carolina,
military
prison in which he was confined.
1864
January 1864
January 1 - Friday
The morning clear and windy and nothing to do in the fore- noon and nothing in the after as it was wet.
January 2 - Saturday
Changed our camp and began to construct our tents and mark off the ground.
January 3 - Sunday
Building commenced right this mornings rain.
January 4 - Monday
Building at our quarters. Snow and rain. Nothing new.
January 5 - Tuesday
A letter answered. Building at our houses. Wet and messy. Nothing new on this day.
January 6 - Wednesday Am
The whole Regiment on inner picket. Arms Stacked in front ready for an attack by the enemy.
January 7 - Thursday
Nothing of importance going on to day as it is cold and cloudy. It commenced to snow about 8 O'Clock in the evening.
January 8 - Friday Am
It snowed about three inches last night. I caught 3 Rabbits near Mitchells Station in the morning. Done nothing the balance of the day.
January 9 - Saturday
Nothing of importance going on to day as it is verry cold and windy.
January 10 - Sunday
Sunday morning all quiet in camp nothing going on of importance. The air cool with wind.
January 11 - Monday
Monday morning cool nothing going on in this part of the army. Five of Co. B went out on picket.
January 12 - Tuesday
A Splendid day in Camp. Nothing to do.
January 13 - Wednesday
Still nothing to do cold and windy. No drill since we came to this Camp.
January 14 - Thursday
No duty to do yet except Picket and Camp duty. Inspection tomorrow at 9 o'clock PM
January 15 - Friday
Nothing new, Captain Zeigler commanding the Regiment as Major H. J. Shafer is home on Furlough.
January 16 - Saturday
Done nothing a fine day warm and muddy.
January 17 - Sunday
Sunday morning. Inspection. Cold.
January 18 - Monday
Rained and muddy no Drill.
January 19 - Tuesday
Cleared off very muddy and windy. Pickets went out at 12 1/2 o'clock. 5 men of Co. B 107 P.V.
January 20 - Wednesday
Nothing to do to day. Clear and cold. A flag of Truce past threw our camp belonging to the enemy for what not knowing
January 21 - Thursday
The 107th on inline Picket to to be ready at anytime to strengthen the Picket line.
January 22 - Friday
Done nothing. Dress Parade at 4 O.C. at night.
January 23 - Saturday
The pickets came in and 4 of B went out. Nothing else of importance.
January 24 - Sunday
Sunday morning. Inspection. The weather fine and warm.
January 25 - Monday
A Splendid morning and nothing to do of account. Pickets went out in the afternoon 4 men out of Co. B.
January 26 - Tuesday
Done nothing. The day a fine one.
January 27 - Wednesday
All quiet and nothing going on. Pickets went out 4 men out of Co. B, and the rest came in.
January 28 - Thursday
The 107 Regt on inn line Picket armes stacked and ready to meet the enemy at any point they See proper to take us.
January 29 - Friday
Nothing this day a fine one. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
January 30 - Saturday
A wet dull day a detail 4 men was made and reported at 7 OC. this mornin not Knowing what for out of Co. B 107 Regt PV.
January 31 - Sunday
Nothing going on of importance to day. A Detail for Picket went out at 10 1/2 A. M. and the rest came in.
February 1864
February 1 - Monday
Nothing of much interest going on to day.
February 2
Reenlisting going on today in the Regt to see wheather 3/4 of the Regt will reenlist or not
February 3 - Wednesday
Done nothing of importance. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening. The Chaplain Delivered a prayer before the Regt.
February 4 - Thursday
The 107 Regt on inn line Picket by order of G. H. Lenard commanding the First Brig & Div First Corps Army of Po.
Dress Parade the Same.
February 5 - Friday
Came of inn line Picket at 11 OC. Nothing more of importance this day. Dress Parade at 4 at night.
February 6 - Saturday
Marching orders last night to Start at day light. Orders countermanded in the morning. Rain and muddy.
February 7 - Sunday
Orders to be ready to march at any moment. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening. The Chaplain gave us a short Sermon and delivered a prayer.
February 8 - Monday
Nothing of importance going on to day in this part of the army.
February 9 - Tuesday
All quiet about marching. The same duty as we have been doing for some time past.
February 10 - Wednesday
The 107th was on inline Picket by orders of G. H. Lenard commanding lst Brig.
February 11 - Thursday
Came of inn line Picket at 10 OC. A. M. Received to month pay in the morning.
February 12 - Friday
A fine day. Our Camp to be inspected by General Robinson commanding 2 Div.
February 13 - Saturday
The 107 Regt went out on Picket for a two days tour by command of G. H. Lenard commanding first Brig. 2nd Div Ist Corps.
February 14 - Sunday
The Regt still on Picket Duty. Nothing going on in Camp.
February 15 - Monday
The Regt still on Picket. Commenced to Snow in the evening at 6 o'clock turned into rain threw the night.
February 16 - Tuesday
The Regt came in off Picket at 10 o'clock in the forenoon. Rain.
February 17 - Wednesday
A cold day me and my tent mates cut a load of wood today. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
February 18 - Thursday
Nothing of importance goin on to day. The regular monthly inspection took place to day at 3 O.C. P.M. Cold.
February 19 - Friday
We wer sworn in for three years or during the war this morning by Capt D. S. Mathews Acting Adjutant.
February 20 - Saturday
The 107 Regt went out on Picket this morning by order of G. H. Lenard commanding lst Brigade 2nd Division lst Corps.
February 21 - Sunday
The Regt Still on Picket. Nothing new in Camp. Weather fine and warm.
February 22 - Monday
The Regt cam off Picket at 10 O.C. in the forenoon.
February 23 - Tuesday
Company & Battalion Drill. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening. A fine day.
February 24 - Wednesday
The 107th Regt was on inline Picket to day. Dress Parade in the evening at 4 o'clock.
February 25 - Thursday
Came off inline Picket at 10 o'clock in the mornin. Battalion Drill in the afternoon. Brigade Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
February 26 - Friday
The 107th Regt went on Picket this morning. So that there is no one of Co. B in except the Sick, Smith & myself.
February 27 - Saturday
The Regt Still on Picket duty. Weather fine nothing going on in camp of any importance.
February 28 - Sunday
The Regt came off Picket at 10 0 C A.M. Brigade Dress Parade at 4 in the evening. Weather fine & warm.
February 29 - Monday
Mustered for Pay and mustered out and in for three years longer by LieutenantLieut Meed of the 90th Pa Volunteers.
March 1864
March 1 - Tuesday
Done nothing as it rained all day.
March 2 - Wednesday
The 107 Regt on inline Picket by order G. H. Lenard commanding lst Brig 2nd Div 1st Corps.
March 3 - Thursday
Battalion Drill in the afternoon by Colonel McCoy commanding Rgt.
March 4 - Friday
Company Drill in the morning and Battalion in the after. Dress Parade in the evening at 5 O.C.
March 5 - Saturday
Nothing to day but prepared for Sunday morning inspection. Brigade Dress Parade in the evening at 5 O'clock.
March 6 - Sunday
Sunday morning inspection by Col. McCoy commanding the Regt. March the 6th 1864 the Regt went on Picket at 12 O.C.
March 7 - Monday
The Regt Still on Picket. Rain in the morning. Clear at night.
March 8 - Tuesday
The Regt Still on Picket. Weather fine and warm. Nothing of importance going on at Present in camp.
March 9 - Wednesday
The Regt came into day at 11 O'clock.
March 10 - Thursday
Wakened up at day light and Stacked arms as the rebs wer coming but all in vane as they did not come.
March 11 - Friday
All quiet to day and nothing new in camp So far.
March 12 - Saturday
The 107th Regt on inline Picket by order of Colonel McCoy commanding lst Brig 2 Div 1 Corps.
Dress Parade at 4 at night.
March 13 - Sunday
Sunday morning. Inspection by Major H. J. Shaefer Comn the Regt.
March 14 - Monday
Company & Battalion Drill. The weather cool. Nothing new to day. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
March 15 - Tuesday
The 107th Regt on inline Picket. Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
March 16 - Wednesday
Monthly inspection to day at 10 o'clock by Lieutenant Brady of the 13 Massachusetts Volunteers and acting inspection General.
March 17 - Thursday
Company & Battalion Dress Parade at 4 in the evening.
March 18 - Friday
The 107 o(n)Picket Duty for the turm of three days called into line at 2 in the after noon. The talk was that the rebs wer coming but the did not.
March 19 - Saturday
The Regt Still on Picket. Nothing new in camp to day.
March 20 - Sunday
The Regt Still on Picket duty done nothing today.
March 21 - Monday
The Regt came off Picket to day at 4 O.C. in the evening. nothing new in camp of importance.
March 22 - Tuesday
Company drill in the morning. Signed the Pay Rolls in the afternoon. Comenced to Snow at 2 O.C in the P.M.
March 23 - Wednesday
Got paid in the morning. Snowed all last night and had a big time moving it of the streets through the Regt. Dress Parade at 4 at night.
March 24 - Thursday
Relieved from inline Picket this morning as I forgot to mention in the 23rd no drills. Dress Parade at 4 P.M.
March 25 - Friday
Company drill in the morning and Battalion Drill in the afternoon. Snow and rain.
March 26 - Saturday
The 107th Regt on inline Picket by order of G. H. Lenard commanding First Brigade. I was in Culpepper to day very mudy.
March 27 - Sunday
Company Inspection in the morning. Dress Parade in the evening at 4 O'Clock.
March 28 - Monday
Company drill in the morning and Battalion in the afternoon. Dress Parade in the evening.
March 29 - Tuesday
Done nothing to day as it has bin raining since this morning and is getting wors & raining faster.
March 30 - Wednesday
No Drill. Company inspection at 1 O.C. P.M. Dress Parade at 4 P.M.
March 31 - Thursday
Done nothing. Got ready to go home. Dress Parade at 4 P.M.
April 1864
April 1 - Friday
Started for home at 8 O.C. in the morning. Arrived at Washington at 6 in the afternoon put up at the Soldiers rest for the night.
April 2 - Saturday
Left there at 8 at night for Baltimore arrived there at 4 in the morning. Rain.
April 3 - Sunday
Left Baltimore at 10 O.C. A.M. for Harrisburg. Arrived at Harrisburg 5 in the evening.
April 4 - Monday
Lay at Camp Curtain all day.
April 5 - Tuesday
Left Camp Curtain at 10 O.C. A.M. for home. At the theater at night.
April 6 - Wednesday
Left Harrisburg for home at 1 O.C., P.M. arrived at home at 8 O'Clock at night.
April 7 - Thursday
Roved arround home all day. Clear.
April 8 - Friday
Visited the town of Newburg to day. Clear.
April 9 - Saturday
Went to Sailhamers & Shoaps to Spend the day. Started home at sun set. Rain.
April 10 - Sunday
Went to Newburg to attend Divine Service in the Winebernerian Church.
April 11 - Monday
Around home all day. Visited Burkholders in the after- noon.
April 12 - Tuesday
Visited Simon Mowers in the forenoon and went to Newburg in the afternoon. Wrote by A. R. Miller & Remember me David.
April 13 - Wednesday
Ralied around home in the forenoon. Visited Geesamans in the after noon. Rainy.
April 14 - Thursday
Visited Bakers & Shoaps on this day by the risk of bullets. Clear. Cloudy.
April 15 - Friday1
Mr. David W. Wagner and Samuel Mitchel came to Soddom and they pitched horseshoes and at night we played Crossy Crown. Mr. William McNeal.
April 16 - Saturday2
Pitched two games of horse shoes in the morning It then commenced to rain went to Fousts then came back to Mitchels. Raining all day.
April 17 - Sunday3 (In David Wagner's handwriting again) Mr. S. H. Mitchells
Sunday morning wet and rain. Went to Clover Hill in the afternoon clear & and to the Brick Church at night.
April 18 - Monday
Visited Roxbury and Uncle Hugh to day a fine day. Stayed all night at Uncles.
April 19 - Tuesday
Startef for home at 8 O.C. in the morning. Arrived at home at 4 P.M. Took dinner at Jacob Millers.
April 20 - Wednesday
Visited Laughlins and Snoaks and went to Newburg & Barrs at night. Clear.
April 21 - Thursday
Visited Shipensburg to day and got home at 9 in the evening. Clear.
April 22 - Friday
At home in the forenoon. Started to Mrs. Millers in the afternoon. Went to Sirus Hazelets in the evening with Cousin Wm. Stevens. Examined Stevens at 8 O.C.
April 23 - Saturday
Started to Newburg. Went by the way of Bakers then to McLays Mill. Got back to town. Started to Zion at Sun Set. Got back at 10 O.C. Had a good tilme.
April 24 - Sunday
Started for Cousin Rosannas at 9 A.M. Arrived there at 12 M. & was sick. On the way left David Smiths About 5 Oclock P.M. & went to grandmothers for the night. Cousin Will went home. Clear. Wm. Stevens4.
April 25 - Monday
Left Grandmothers at 8 O.C. & went to Mr. Hemphills. Left there at 2 P.M. for Newburg. Stayed with Uncle James Reeder over night. Clear.
April 26 - Tuesday
I left Newburg this morning and came to Mr. Hollars Raising and what a fine lot of ladies was there. This was wrote at 12 O.C. by Ligan Mitchell.
April 27 - Wednesday
Left home for Mifflin at 8 O.C. in the morning. Took dinner with Geo. Geebys. Went to Uncles at 2 O.C. & stayed for the night to Mrs. McElwains in the afternoon.
April 28 - Thursday
Left Uncles at 8 in the morning took Dinner with Jacob Heberlings. Started for home at 2. Arrived at home at 4. Up along the mountain that night and had a good time.
April 29 - Friday
At home in the forenoon went to D. Bakers in the after. Took supper there and then went home & from that to M. Hoovers to spend the night.
April 30 - Saturday
Started for Sodom in the morning got there at 10 O.C. Took dinner at Rineharts took supper at Mitchells. Started for home at 4 O.C. got home at 2 OC. at night.
May 1864
May 1 - Sunday
Sunday Morning went to Clover Hill to Church at 10 went home for Diner and back for Sabbath School. Went to Newburg at night and had some fun.
May 2 - Monday
This day at home all the time James Laughlin came down in the evening. Rain.
May 3 - Tuesday
At home in the forenoon went to Hensels took Dinner. Came back home at 1 O.C. went to John Millers in the afternoon. Stayed for Super and a while after then went home.
May 4 - Wednesday
Started for Harrisburg at 8 from Home. Stoped at Carlisle for the night with Uncle Johns. Went to Town that night & had a time.
May 5 - Thursday
Left Carlisle at 2 P.M. for Harrisburg arrived 4 in the evening. Stayed there all night.
May 6 - Friday
Went out to Camp at 8 A.M. Got our arms at 12 O.C. Dress Parade at 5 O.C. Went to town and stayed there for the night.
May 7 - Saturday
A fine morning came to Camp at 8 A.M. Went to town at 2 P.M. & stayed to 11 at night then came out to Camp.
May 8 - Sunday
Sunday morning a fine morning went to Town at night. Came out to Camp at 12 O.C.
May 9 - Monday
Started for Baltimore at 10 A.M. Arrived there at 6 in the evening. Put up at the Soldiers Rest. A Shower as we came into town.
May 10 - Tuesday
In the Soldiers rest at 8 in the morning. No orders when to start. A fine morning. Started for Washington at 10 OC., A.M. arrived there at Sun Set. Stayed in the retreat.
May 11 - Wednesday
Still in the Rest at 8 A.M. Left there at 12 O.C. for Aquia Creak in a steam boat didn't get far that night. On the boat all night. Rain.
May 12 - Thursday
On the boat all day or Still on at 4 O.C., P.M. laying at anchor. Staid on that night. Heavy rain and thunder.
May 13 - Friday
Still on the River near the landing at anchor. There is 3 Boats in view up at the Landing at 10 A.M.. Got off at 5 in the evening & camped for the night. Rain.
May 14 - Saturday
Left there for Fredericksburg at 8 in the morning. Wounded passed us all day going back. Encamped.in a house all night near Fredericksburg. Thunder showers in the evening.
May 15 - Sunday
Left here and moved to the other side of Fredericksburg & Encamped for the night. Thundershower in the evening.
May 16 - Monday
Left here for the front at 6 O.C. in the morning got out I P.M. Cannonading on the right at 3 P.M. Encamped in a field over night. Cannonading ceased at 1. Rain.
May 17 - Tuesday
Moved to the right and threw up breast works at 4 O.C. in the evening. All quiet along the lines to day & at dark the same.
May 18 - Wednesday
Cannonading and Skirmishing commenced at day break. Moved to the left at 8 under a heavy cannonade at 10 a chance Shot. At 11 all quiet and moved to the right in a woods. Went to the right at 11 at night. Rain.
May 19 - Thursday
Lay in the brestworks all day. A fight on the right in the evening at 4 O.C. the Rebs drove back. All quiet at dark. In the Entrenchments all night. Rain in the afternoon.
May 20 - Friday
A shot or two at daylight of cannon & a chance Shot along the line. The same all day. A Chance Musket Shot. Very little Cannon in use today.
May 21 - Saturday
At ten moved to the left & lay in a field. The Rebs opened on us and we moved to the Right where we left & at 1 P.M. we moved to the enemys Left flank. About 12 N Passed Guinneys Station. At 4 crossed the Po River & Camped on a Hill.
May 22 - Sunday
Went on at 10 and moved to bulls Church & camped for the night. Some Cannon firing at 2 P.M. in front but soon ceased. The Rebs in full retreat. All quiet at dusk. Distance 10 m
May 23 - Monday
Moved to North Anny River Skirmishing commenced at 10 & Cannonading The Fifth Corps went 4 M to the right & crossed the River. Skirmishing in front at ox Ford & had a fight. Firin all night. 10 mi.
May 24 - Tuesday.
Drove the enemy off last night they are in full Retreat & all is quiet except on the left there is Cannon firing. We threw up works in the morning. All quiet at 3 O.C., P.M. it heavy fight on the Left at 3. Ceased at dusk. Rain at night.
May 25 - Wednesday
Moved to the Left at daylight a mile or two & met the Enemy in a woods when heavy skirmishing Commenced & kept up. Some wounded and killed out of the Regt. Skirmishing ceased at dusk. A thunder shower at dark.
May 26 - Thursday
Mail today. The Same skirmishing at daylight and is going on yet. A Thundershower in the evening. Fell back across the North Anna River at 10 at night & the Rebs never knew it till we were gone.
May 27 - Friday
Moved on towards the white house. Passed St. Pauls Church at 8 A.M. Stoped & Cooked coffee & had breakfast. Went on to Mangohick or near there & camped for the night rained at 4 O.C. Distance 20 mi.
May 28 - Saturday
Left here and' moved across the Po-Monkey River in the morning at 11 A.M. Went on the Heights & deployed in line of battle. Cannonading in front, the Corps throwing up Entrenchments. Our Regt in Reserve. The 107 on Picket at night. Distance 10 miles.
May 29 - Sunday
Came off Picket in the morning orders to march at 8 A.M. Left there & moved three miles to the Left & threw up Entrenchments. Skirmishing on our front in the evening there all night.
May 30 - Monday
Moved to the front about two miles & threw up Entrenchments under the fire of the Enemies Cannon & skirmishers two killed and 1 wounded in the Regt. Commenced at 3. Ceased at dark. Some heavy work today on the right of us.
May 31 - Tuesday
The Same as usual. Skirmishing in front. All quiet at noon. A heavy fight on the right at 1 O.C. to 3 Ceased to Skirmishing, A Sharp Cannonade to the left at 4 P.M. Quiet at dark except usual Skirmishing kept up all night.
June 1864
June 1 - Wednesday
The same as yesterday Skirmishing Quit using chewing Tobacco today June 1, 1864. Moved to the front at 11. We did not go far till a fight Commenced on the right. Threw up breast works.
June 2 - Thursday
The Some as yesterday. Canonading to our right at 9 O.C. A.M., Seased at 12 N. Quiet from 12 to three when a sharp fight took place on our right & we wer ordered down to take part in it. Seased at dark. Rain.
June 3 - Friday
A heavy Canonade Commenced at daylight. The Enemy quiet at first. Heavy work all fore noon. We went to the right Sharp Fiting along the line. Canonading Seased at Dusk. 1 man wounded to day out of B George Fry.
June 4 - Friday
Quiet this morning except Skremishing but two Canon Shots this morning. Some Canon firing in the afternoon to the left. We moved to the left at 1 O.C. & there for the fight
June 5 - Sunday
Up twice last night as the Rebs maid an atact on the Pickets. The forenoon Some Skirmishing & Canon Firing to our left. All quiet at 5 O.C. in the evening. Still some firing on the Skremish line at 8 Moved to near Coal Harbor & stoped for the night in a field.
June 6 - Monday
Lay still all day. Canon Firing in our front & to the left of us. Orders to move at 7 in the evening but was countermanded. Stayed there over night.
June 7 - Tuesday
Lay still all day. We had orders to pack up & then the the orders came to pitch tents & go into Camp which was dun at 4 P.M. Canon Firing in the front at times all day.
June 8 - Wednesday
Lay still all day the same Canon Firing in Front at times all day. No infantry to be hurd. The boys of the Regt are pitching Horshoes and all kinds of work going on in Camp. Heavy firing in front at dark of Canon.
June 9 - Thursday
There was very Heavy firing last night two heavy blasts of some kinds not known & firing at times all day in the Front. We are Still in Camp Cleaning up. All quiet at dark.
June 10 - Friday
This has bin the quietest day we had for some 36 1 burd but two Canon Shots to day. We are still in Camp. There was inspection at 9 O.C. this morning by Corp. Cornnelius.
June 11 - Saturday
Orders to move at 4 O.C. in the morning. Left & moved at 5 to near Bottom Bridge. We Stoped for the night in a field A few Cannon Shots in the morning to the left of our lines & a few in the evening towards the Bridge.
June 12 - Sunday
Sunday mornin inspection at 10 O.C. Orders to move at 5 in the evening. Left at Sun set & crossed the Chicahominy that night. Marched all night at 5 miles. Cavalry Skremishing at dusk & at midnight in front.
June 13 - Monday
Moved up the River about two miles when we met the Enemy & had a Fight. On Skremish lost one man out of Co. K wounded. Left there at 9 & moved towards James river. Dust a nuisance.
June 14 - Tuesday
Moved on towards the James river in the morning got into Camp at 10 O.C. near the River near Charles City Court House. Distance 7 miles. Encamped for the night in a field two miles from the James River.
June 15 - Wednesday
The morning pleasant & all quiet in Camp at 8 A.M. Some Firing in our rear at 12 M. All quiet in Camp at Sun Set. This has bin a day of rest to us which we enjoy verry well.
June 16 - Thursday
Orders to moove at 1 O.C. in the morning. Left at 4 & crossed the James River. Took the boat Called Governer Chace at Wilson's Landing & Crosset to the Sout Side marched on to near Petersburg
June 17 - Friday
Marched all last night. Stoped at 3 O.C. in the morning in a woods to rest. Left there at 9 O.C. A.M. & and moved to the Front. Firing and Fighting Comenced at Daylight. Kept up till night when the Enemy fell back & we mooved after & fighting all night no sleep.
June 18 - Saturday
This morning all quiet at day light. We moved to the Front or after the Enemy as they fell back 1 1/2 M. We met them at 1 O.C. when a Fighting Commenced. At 4 we moved across the Railroad. Moved back at 9 to threw up works. Lost too killed 1 wounded of Co B 107 Regt.
June 19 - Sunday
This morning Skremishing in front at 12 M. The same in the afternoon & Study canonade ceased at dark but Skirmishing. Regt up all night. We have lost 16 men out of the Regt since yesterday morning the 18 of June.
June 20 - Monday
Skremishing along the lines in our Front. Canonading tothe right, Heavy at 8 A.M. Seased at 12 M. Another at 8 O.C., P.M. to our right Skremishing continually along the lines. Canonading Seased at 4 in the evening.
June 21 - Tuesday
Firing all night along the lines. Canonading at 8 A.M. which lasted till 10. Canonading Commenced at 1 O.C., P.M. kept up till 4 when it ceased. We lost one man out of Co. B 107 Pa. to day.
June 22 - Wednesday
Skreminsing all night in Front. Canonading at intervals all day. A Sharp Canonade at 5 P.M. which ceased at 6. A sharp Fight to our left at 9 O.C. Seased about 10 or 12 at night.
June 23 - Thursday
A heavy Fight to the right at 2 or 3 O.C. this morning with what success not known. Skremishing All day a barn burnt in our Front at 4 P.M. A fight to our right at 8 in the evening.
June 24 - Friday
This morning at 4 O.C. we moved to the left & at 10 we were Shelled by the Enemy. Lost one man out of Co B 107. A heavy fight to our right at 10 which ceased at 12 M. 8 took our place in line of Battle for the night.
June 25 - Saturday
Verry little Skremishing in our front. Heavy Canonading to our right all day Seased for the day at 8 in the evening. This is a verry hot day.
June 26 - Sunday
This morning they are Fighting on our right at daylight. Canonading to our right all day. Seased at dark. We are laying in line of Battle along the Jeruselum plank road. A shour in the evening.
June 27 - Monday
This morning every thing is quiet in our front as our boys and the Rebe have agreed not to shoot at one another. Canonading to our right at intervals day & night in front of the 1st Corps which is on our left. A shour in the evening.
June 28 - Tuesday
The morning is very quiet in our Front. But the Canonading is still kept up to our left. Quiet all day in our Front. The same on the left. We moved to the right at 7 O.C. in the evening.
June 29 - Wednesday
This morning every thing is quiet along the lines at 8 O.C. in the morning There is very heavy Canonading to our right so far that it can just be hurd. At 8 all quiet in our Front & to the right. I had my tent up to night for the first time since the 16 of June.
June 30 - Thursday
This morning there has bin some Firing along the lines but it soon got quiet. We wer Mustered for pay at 10 O.C., A. M. The remainder of the day all quiet except on the right of our lines there has bin some Canonading.
July 1864
July 1 - Friday
This morning things are quiet with us. They are still at work to our right. All quiet at 8 O.C. in the evening except to the right the same.
July 2 - Saturday
At 8 O.C. in the morning everything is quiet in our Front. The same as usual to the right at 4 P.M. the same. We Recd a male two day for the first we had since the 20th of June.
July 3 - Sunday
All quiet in our front the same to the right. Inspection at 9 A.M. At 4 in the evening of importance nothing but Canonading to our right in front of 9 Army Corps.
July 4 - Monday
This morning quiet except Skirmishing along the the lines. I solemly Sware of using intoxicating Drinks from this day 1864. All quiet this day. Some firing to our right at times.
July 5 - Tuesday
This day has bin quiet with us but the same to our right. To day we have Strengthened our works & started to dig a well in front of our Comp(any). We have it ten feet deep this evening. Every thing is quiet at 8 O.C. in the evening.
July 6 - Wednesday
This morning is quiet along the lines as far as I can hear from. Canonading to the right in the afternoon. The boys of the Company & Regt are detailed to work on a Fort. They are at work this evening. Quiet in front.
July 7 - Thursday
The same detail for work this morning at 4 O.C. Canonading to our right at 6 O.C., A.M. Nothing new in the after part of the day. The same details for work, Canonading to the right.
July 8 - Friday
There was some Sharp firing along the lines last night of musketry & Artilary & this morning the Same & Sharp Artilary Dewel at 4 O.C. in the evening.
July 9 - Saturday
This morning all quiet along the lines. Cannons opened at 10 O.C. & kept up to 12 M. Canon firing to our right at 2 O.C. regular firing all afternoon.
July 10 Sunday
This morning there is heavy firing to our right in the direction of Petersburg. Kept up to towards mid day. All quiet at night along the right.
July 11 - Monday
This morning things are quiet in our front. Some firing to our right in the Direction of Town. We were shelled by the Rebs in the evening at 4 O.C. Col. Davis of the 39 Mass. was wounded Sessed at 9 O.C.
July 12 - Tuesday
This morning firing to our right. The same all day. Shelling in our front at 4 O.C. Ceased at dark. Still working on the fort. We moved into the fort last night at midnight.
July 13 - Wednesday
Still in the Fort at work. Canonading toour right all forenoon. At 2 P.M. all is quiet along the lines. Some shelling in the evening but it was not such.
July 14 - Thursday
There was some sharp firing along the lines last night of musketry & Artilary & this morning the same Artilary firing all day at intervals to the right. Three rockets went up out of the fort at 8 in the evening. All quiet in front os us.
July 15 - Friday
This morning all is quiet along the lines at 9 0C, A. M. Canonading in the evening at 4 O.C. to the right. Our felows blew up one of there Casons which ended the fun for the time.
July 16 - Saturday
This morning everything is quiet along the lines except to the right there is Canonading at 10 A. M. Seased at 4 in the evening. Quiet at 10 at night.
July 17 - Sunday
This is a quiet morning along the lines. Orders for Inspection at 10 A. M.. Inspected by one of the Staff oficers. from Brig. H. Qr. Canonading to the right in the afternoon. Quiet at 6 in the evening.
July 18 - Monday
This morning everything is quiet along the lines except the usual Canonading to the right. All quiet at 6 in the evening. Still in the Fort.
July 19- Tuesday
This morning every thing is quiet as it is raining. At 7 O.C., A. M. 2 O.C. Canonading to our right. Seased raining at I P.M. Everything quiet at dark.
July 20 - Wednesday
Still in the Fort. All quiet on our front in the morning & till 2 P.M. when Canonading was heard to our right. Kept up till dark. Some Skremishing in our front at 9 O.C. in the evening.
July 21 - Thursday
This morning all in quiet except to the right the usual canonading which ceased at 1 O.C. for a Short time. Nothing till 4 when a heavy Artilary dual comenced to the right.
July 22 - Friday
Last night there was heavy Firing to the right. The same this morning. Some heavy Guns in side. Kept up all day, ceased at dark. Skremishing the same to the right.
July 23 - Saturday
This morning things are quiet. Skremishing is kept up to our right. There has been but little Canon Firing to day along the lines. There was a few guns fired this morning to the right.
July 24 - Sunday
It is quiet except to the right. Sunday morning Inspection.at 9 O.C. A. M. Artilary firing to the right at intervals all day. Quiet in our front at 6 in the evening.
July 25 - Monday
This morning there is a big noise to the right of Artilary & Infantry. The Rebs shelled our fort at 2 & 8 O.C., P. M. to day. One man wounded out of Co. B. Quiet at 10 P.M.
July 26 - Tuesday
This morning all is quiet with us but there is heavy firing to our right since daylight with Artllary & Infantry. In the evening the Enemy opened with artilary on the Fort & threw some 8 to 10 shells & Seased. Done no harm to my knowledge.
July 27 - Wednesday
This morning all is quiet in front. There is some firing to our right in the forenoon. We had orders at 2 P.M. to ready for an atact by the Enemy but it was all in vane. They Shelled the Pickets in our Front. It amounted to but little. All quiet at 8 P.M.
July 28 - Thursday
This Morning all is quiet in our front. There is Still Some firing to our right at 4 O.C. the Enemy Shelled our Picket line & threw a few this way. No harm done as far as hurd from.
July 29 - Friday
Still in the Fort work everything is quiet in our front. Some Artilary firing to the right in the morning. All quiet at 3 P.M. At 6 in the evening all quiet along the lines right & left as far as can be hurd from.
July 30 - Saturday
Some firing last night to the right at day light the thing broke loos along the lines right & left with musketry & Artilary. Ceased at 10 O.C. All quiet in the afternoon. Some few Canon Shots in the evening to the right.
July 31 - Sunday
This Morning all quiet along the lines. Inspection at 10 O.C. by Companys. Some firing to our right in the evening still quiet in our front.
August 1864
August 1 - Monday
This has been a quiet day with us as there is nothing going on. There is some firing to the right at long intervills. All quiet in our front at 6 O.C. P. M.
August 2 - Tuesday
Still in the Fort Called Fort Warren. At work. Everything is quiet along the lines to day as far as can be hurd from. This is a warm day & everything is dull & quiet at 6 O.C., P. M.
August 3 - Wednesday
There was some Sharp firing last night to our right. Kept up till morning when it ceased. All quiet today along the lines. Some firing to the right at 8 in the evening.
August 4 - Thursday
This morning all is quiet in our front. Some Artilary firing to the right in the afternoon. The Same Artilary firing at dark.
August 5 - Friday
This morning everything is quiet along the line in front of us. There is some firing to the right in the evening at 4 O.C. all quiet at 8 in the evening in our front.
August 6 - Saturday
This morning the usual firing to the right. All quiet in our front. The Sane in the evening nothing new at 8 P.M.
August 7 - Sunday
This is a pleasant morning & all is quiet along the lines. Inspection at 10 O.C. by Company. Some Artilary firing to the right in the afternoon. Seased at dark all quiet at 8 in the evening.
August 8 - Monday
This morning there is some firing our right between the Artilary kept up all day or to Sun Set when it Seased all quiet at 6 in the evening.
August 9 - Tuesday
To day all is quiet except a few Cannon Shots to our right all quiet at 6 OI.C. in the evening
August 10 - Wednesday
This Morning all is quiet in our front. Some firing to our right at 6 in the evening. The Enemy threw 4 Shells at Fort Warren. All quiet at 8 P.M.
August 11 - Thursday
The Same as usual firing to our right. All quiet in front of the Fifth Corps. All quiet at 8 in the evening along the lines in front of Petersburg.
August 12 Friday
This morning Some firing to the right. All quiet-the Remainder of the day the Same in the evening.
August 13 - Saturday
There was some heavy firing last ninght to our right. Some few Shots in our front. The Cannon are Still roaring to the right. All quiet at 8 in the evening.
August 14 - Sunday
Sunday Morning Inspection by Company. all quiet along the lines in the fore-noon. Some firing to the ringht in the after-noon quiet at dark.
August 15 - Monday
Left the Fort at 6 O.C. in the morning to the right. Stoped in a woods & put up a Camp. Rain in the evening. Some firing in our front at 8 at night.
August 16 - Tuesday
Still in the woods. Orders to be ready to move in Short notice. Firing in our front in the afternoon all quiet in the evening. Orders to moove at 2 O.C. at night.
August 17 - Wednesday
This morning we packed up at 2 O.C. for to march. Still in Camp at 8 A.M. Orders Countermanded at 10. Put up for the night. Firing in our front at 6 in the evening the same at 8 Still firing.
August 18 - Thursday
Heavy firing in our front at mid night. All quiet in the morning. We moved to the left to Reams Station where we met the enemy & drove them & took the Road.
August 19 - Friday
This morning we are in line of Battle. Some Skremishing in our front. A fight in the evening in which I was taken prisner by the Enemy and taken to Petersburg that night. Stoped out Side of Town over night.
August 20 - Saturday
This morning we were moved to the other Side of the Appomatox & Stayed all night. Rain in the evening and at night.
August 21 - Sunday
Left there at 2 O.C. for Richmond. Walked 3 miles & took the Cars Passed Clover Hill St. & Half Way St. arived at Richmond at daylight.
August 22 - Monday
Arrived in the City of Richmond this morning as a Prisner of war. Searched to day in Liby Prison naked except Shirt. There all night rain in the evening.
August 23 - Tuesday
This day we drew the First to eat to day at 10 A.M. Then taken to Bell Island in the afternoon. Now hear I am to have a squad of 50 men to attend to in rations.
August 24 - Wednesday
This morning we drew Rations for the first on Belle Island at 10 O.C. in the morning and at 6 in the evening. Clear.
August 25 - Thursday
(The diary had been written in ink up to this date. is in pencil. S.D.) The same on Belle Island the same as yesterday. There was a nock down in the afternoon between a Johny & a Yank.
August 26 - Friday
Last night two men (were) shot one for disobeying orders & the other for trying to make his escape from the Island. No Rations today on the account of one man. (This last remark is crossed out. S.D.)
August 27 - Saturday
One man Shot last night for disobeying orders. Some rain last night. To day some of the Squads are drawing tents.
August 28 - Sunday
Still on the Island & nothing new as far as I can hear. We draw Rations twice a day - half loaf of corn bread a day & one pot of bean Soup & a peas of pork.
August 29 - Monday
Two days we wer reenforced by 2000 more prisners. The Same in camp. A Fight between our men in the afternoon of the 107th Regt all over in a Short time.
August 30 - Tuesday
All quiet on the Island to day. A train of Care came from Petersburg in the evening with Women & Children. Canonading down by the River at
August 31 - Wednesday
There was a fire in Richmond last night. Commenced early in the evening & burnt till morning. The day the same as usual no news of importance that we can hear of. Still on the Island of Belle.
September 1864
September 1 - Thursday
The First of the month a beautiful morning on Belle Island. Nothing new in forenoon. A fire in Richmond in the afternoon. In the evening all quiet as far as can be Seen.
September 2 - Friday
Last night at 12 O.C. there was quite a fire in the direction of Petersburg & cannon firing & another in Richmond. All quiet on the Island & nothing new.
September 3 - Saturday
Another fire last night in Richmond. This morning it is cloudy and raining. Nothing new in the afternoon. Cloudy in the evening as if it might rain before morning.
September 4 - Sunday
Sunday all quiet on Belle Island. The day a fine one warm & dry. Rumers plenty of all kinds & Sorts amungst the prisners.
September 5 - Monday
Last night two fiers in the City of Richmond. The News this morning is that Sherman has Atlanta by the Richmond Enquire. (Atlanta was evacuated by the Confederates on September 1. S.D.)
September 6 - Tuesday
Another fire in Richmond last night. This morning rain. We wer counted this morning. The Sergts of the Squads drew an extra ration today. All quiet in the evening rain.
September 7 - Wednesday
This morning clear & warm on the Island. A fire in Richmond in the afternoon. There has bin a Fight every day amungst the men on the Island Since the 23rd of August 64.
September 8 - Thursday
This morning a fine one. Everything quiet on the Island. No news to be heard. We can hear Grants guns this evening but to what effect not known.
September 9 - Friday
This day we wer taken off the Island & the camp was arranged into Streets & tents into line. Came in at night and we got into other tents. All quiet to day.
September 10 - Saturday
This day we wer taken out again So that they could fix the ground & put the tents in order. All quiet in the evening.
September 11 - Sunday
This Morning we wer counted then drew Grub. Rain & hail in the evening about 4 0 C All quiet in the evening. At 8 0 C rain.
September 12 - Monday
This morning the working hands are at work & we are taken out of Camp. We have bin Drawing wheat bread Since the 10th of August. All quiet in the evening on the Island.
September 13 - Tuesday
This is a fine morning & appears like fall. All Quiet to day. The Sun warm & the sky clear, in the evening. A great Rumor of Paroling.
September 14 - Wednesday
This day a fine one. All quiet on the Island. Heavy firing in the afternoon & in the evening at Sun Set. The Same News.
September 15 - Thursday
On the Island the Same as before. Nothing new to be heard frum.
September 16 - Friday
The Same as before nothing new & nothing to do but to attend to drawing our rations which we draw twice a day wheat bread & soup & meat.
September 17 - Saturday
This is a fine warm day. We wer taken out & counted in the morning. All quiet in the evening.
September 18 - Sunday
This morning Cloudy. Taken out of Camp in the morning to be counted. In the evening at 4 0 C could hear Canonading towards Petersburg. Rain.
September 19 - Monday
This morning we wer taken out & counted. All quiet in the afternoon & in the evening on the Island. No news to be heard of any kind.
September 20 - Tuesday
This morning we were taken off the Island & counted in the morning we could hear Grants Cannon & in the evening it can be heard.
September 21 - Wednesday
This morning we wer taken out & counted. Then drew rations. All quiet in the evening. Cloudy and has the appearance of rain.
September 22 - Thursday
This morning taken out & counted. Rain last night Canonading this morning. All quiet in the evening. Cloudy & looks very much like rain.
September 23 - Friday
This morning counted comenced raining at 10 0C AM All quiet in the forenoon & in the evening. Rain.
September 24 - Saturday
This morning showers & the Sound of heavy guns towards Petersburg. Counted this morning. Rain. Cleared off in the fore noon & the Sun came out. All quiet in the evening.
September 25 - Sunday
This morning cool. Counted in the morning then drew rations. All quiet the remainder of the day. The evening cool and windy.
September 26 - Monday
This morning counted. The Sound of cannons reach our ears from Petersburg. A report that Sheridan is near the city of Richmond. All quiet in the evening.
September 27 - Tuesday
This morning fine. We wer counted in the morning. The roar of heavy guns reaches our ears. The Rebs news is the Jefferson Davis mooved his cabinet to Macon Ga., Sept 22, 64. All quiet in the evening.
September 28 - Wednesday
This morning Clear. Counted in the morning. Cloudy in the evening & comenced to rain at 4 0 C , P M Heavy canonading in the evening towards Petersburg.
September 29 - Thursday
This morning clear. Counted in the morning. The hands are at work putting up tents. Heavy canonading all day towards Petersburg.
September 30 - Friday
This morning we wer counted. Heavy cannonading 7 Hundred more Prisoners came on the Island in the afternoon. Rain in the evening at 4 P.M. Still Heavy cannonading down the James R.
October 1864
October 1 - Saturday
October the first rain. Counted in the morning. Heavy canonading down the river in the forenoon. Very Heavy canonading down the river Rain all day.
October 2 - Sunday
This morning cloudy. Counted in the forenoon. All quiet to day So far. All quiet in the evening. Corn bread to day beef twice & bean soup.
October 3 - Monday
Last night one man Shot dead. Counted in the forenoon. The morning Cloudy & all quiet. Canonading in the afternoon & in the evening. Comenced to rain at 4 0 C in the evening.
October 4 - Tuesday
This morning counted. Cleared of in the forenoon. All quiet So far. Hard times on the Island amongst prisoners. One Thousand left the Island to day. All quiet in the evening.
October 5 - Wednesday
This morning at 3 O.C. there was 5 Hundred taken South from the Island. Counted in the forenoon. All quiet. 450 more Left in the afternoon. All quiet at Dusk.
October 6 - Thursday
This morning 900 Left the Island at 3 O.C. Southward. Counted in the forenoon. My Squad left at 2 P.M. 450 left at the time. Cloudy & some rain at the time we left. Took the Cars at 4 O.C.
October 7 - Friday
On the way to Danville all night. Arrived there at 5 O.C. this morning. Changed cars & on out to Greensboro. Distance from Richmond to Danville 139 M. Arrived at Greensboro at 4. Distance 48 M. There all night.
October 8 - Saturday
Took the cars for Salisbury at 10 A. arrived there at 4 P.M. Put in there for good. Dist 55 M Cold.
October 9 - Sunday
This morning all quiet. The air cold. Drew rations at 7 O.C., A. M. bread & beef.
October 10 - Monday
A fine morning. The Sun warm. I was Shot at to day as I walked over a guards beet before I knew it but as luck would have it it missed me.
October 11 - Tuesday
This has been a fine day & the news is good that we will be Paroled but whether true or not time will Show. Geo. Toyer died this morning.
October 12 - Wednesday
This is fine warm day at Salisbury a prisoner of war.
October 13 - Thursday
This has another good appearance of a fine day. The Sun Shoes out bright in the forenoon. The after the Same & The news the Same as yesterday or the 11.
October 14 - Friday
The Same as before. We drew meat twice since we wer here. Every thing is quiet to day.
October 15 - Saturday
This morning is fair & warm. Everything is quiet amongst the prisoners.
October 16 - Sunday
Sunday a fine warm day. Everything quiet at Salisbury, N.C.
October 17 - Monday
This is a fine day & times are rough. A prisoner of war at Salisbury N.C. today. Drew bread, Soup & Molasses. More news of paroling.
October 18 - Tuesday
To day cloudy. Everything quiet amongst the prisoners at Salisbury. There is near 6 Thousand at this place. Average 5 ot 6 deaths every 24 hours.
October 19 - Wednesday
This is a fine day down South. The news are this morning that Petersburg is taken amongst the prisners. 5 Hundred more came & the officers left to day.
October 20 - Thursday
The air cool to day. Everything quiet as far as I can hear. There was one man Shot last night by the guard. 47 made their escape last night.
October 21 - Friday
This day a fine one, everything quiet. We draw bread, Molases & Soup as our ration for the last few days.
October 22 - Saturday
This is a cool & windy day. Every thing is quiet as far as we can hear from.
October 23 - Sunday
Sunday - a fine day. The Sun is warm. No news. 32 deaths in the last 24 hours.
October 24 - Monday
This is a fine day after the morning being cool. Commenced to cloud up about 4 O.C. in the evening.
October 25 - Tuesday
This has been a fine day. The weather fine & warm. For the last two days we draw nothing but flour, molasses & rice Soup.
October 26 - Wednesday
To day Cloudy with everything quiet as far as can be heard from. More news of exchange.
October 27 - Thursday
This is a cloudy day. Commenced to rain at 9 A. M. Rained all day.
October 28 Friday
Cleared off last night. The Sun warm to day. I have not drew no rations since last evening at 9 O.C. I feel discouraged this evening.
October 29 - Saturday
This is a fine day, the are cool. No bread to day. Nothing but meat & Soup rice.
October 30 - Sunday
The morning fine. Every thing quiet as far as can be heard from. Drew bread at 1 O.C.
October 31 - Monday
This is a fine day. The Sky is very hazy. We drew bread & Soup to day. Every thing quiet. I hope the last night of the next month will find me out of this.
November 1864
November 1 - Tuesday
Still at Salisbury, N.C. Drew 7 crackers apiece & 1/2 Pint rice Soup for the days ration. A fine warm day.
November 2 - Wednesday
This has been a wet day, Since 6 O.C. this morning & we have had nothing to eat but a Small piece of beef & a pint of rice Soup to day & it is now 4 0 C , P.M. Drew a pint of flour at 6 & raining.
November 3 - Thursday
This has been a cold misty & cloudy day. Everything is dull. Drew Soup Rice at 10 0 A M & 7 crackers to the man in the evening at at 6 O.C. Still wet.
November 4 - Friday
This morning clear & windy & very muddy. Drew 1/2 Pint Rice soup at 1 P.M. Nothing more this day. Rain in the evening.
November 5 - Saturday
This morning clear & the are cool. Drew 1/2 Pint Rice Soup at 12 M. No bread yet. Meat in the morning, flour in the evening.
November 6 - Sunday
This is a fine day. We drew tripe, Rice Soup & a pint corn meal.
November 7 - Monday
This is a clear day. Our Rations to day is 1/2 Pint rice Soup half loaf corn bread.
November 8 - Tuesday
This is a cloudy day with some rain. No ration to day but a Pint rice Soup.
November 9 - Wednesday
This has been a wet night. Cloudy this morning.5
Drew 1/2 loaf Corn Bread & pint of rice Soup.
David Wagner took sick.
November 10 - Thursday
This is a fine day. Drawed 1/2 loaf of Corn Bread, 1 pint of rice Soup and 1/2 pound of beef.
November 11 - Friday
This is A fine day. Drawed 1/2 loaf of corn bread, 1 Pint of rice soup.
David W. Wagner is very sick and he gave me his diary to keep for him.
November 12 - Saturday
This is a fine day. Drawed 1/2 loaf of Corn Bread, 1/2 pound of beef, 1 pint of rice Soup.
He is no better to day. Very poorly not expected to live.
November 13 - Sunday
A warm day.
David W. Wagner died at half past nine o clock.
Notes
{1} Transcriber of typescript copy of diary made the notation in the date heading that the entry for April 15 was written in another person's handwriting.
{2} Also in same handwriting of April 15 entry.
{3} Transcriber noted that this entry was once again in David Wagner's handwriting.
{4} Transcriber noted that Wm. Stevens probably wrote the entry for April 24.
{5} Transcriber noted that this entry was the last to be written in David Wagner's handwriting and that the remaining diary entries were written by some other person.
