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1. George H. Thomas
2. Ulysses S. Grant
3. Joseph Hooker
4. William T.
Sherman
5. Peter J.
Osterhaus
6. August Willich
7. Henry W. Halleck
------------
8. Braxton Bragg
9. Patrick R.
Cleburne
10. Alexander
P. Stewart ?
[ar55_90 con't]
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., November 24, 1863--12 m.
(Received 3.45 a.m., 25th.)
Yesterday at 12.30 o'clock Granger's and Palmer's corps, supported
by Howard's, were advanced directly in front of our fortifications, drove
in the enemy's pickets, and carried his first line of rifle-pits, between
Chattanooga and Citico Creeks. We captured 9 commissioned officers and
about 160 enlisted men. Our loss about 111. Today Hooker, in command of
Geary's division, Twelfth Corps, Osterhaus' division, Fifteenth Corps,
and two brigades, Fourth Corps, carried the north slope of Lookout Mountain,
with small loss on our :side, and a loss to the enemy of 500 or 600 prisoners.
Killed and wounded not reported. There has been continuous infantry fighting
from 12 o'clock until after night, but our troops gallantly repulsed every
attempt to retake the position. Sherman crossed the Tennessee before daylight
this morning, at the mouth of South Chickamauga, with three divisions of
the Fifteenth Corps and one division of the Fourteenth Corps, and carried
the northern extremity of Missionary Ridge. General Grant has ordered a
general advance in the morning. Our success so far has been complete, and
the behavior of the troops admirable.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
-----
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., November 25, 1863--12 p.m.
(Received 3.15 a.m., 26th.)
The operations of to-day have been more successful than yesterday,
having carried Missionary Ridge, from near Rossville to the railroad tunnel,
with a comparatively small loss on our side, capturing about forty pieces
of artillery, a large quantity of small-arms, camp and garrison equipage,
besides the arms in the hands of the prisoners. We captured 2,000 prisoners,
of whom 200 were officers, of all grades, from colonels down. Will pursue
the enemy in the morning. The <ar55_91> conduct of the officers and
troops was everything that could be expected. Missionary Ridge was carried
simultaneously at six different points.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
-----
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., November 26, 1863--11 p.m.
(Received 3.20 a.m., 27th.)
General Davis, commanding a division of the Fourteenth Corps, operating
with General Sherman, gained possession of the Chickamauga Depot at 12.30
o'clock to-day. My troops, having pursued by the Rossville and Graysville
road, came upon the enemy's cavalry at New Bridge, posted on the east side
of the creek. They retired on the approach of our troops. The column will
be detained for a few hours, to rebuild the bridge, but Hooker thinks he
can reach Graysville, and, perhaps, Ringgold, to-night. Many stragglers
have been picked up to-day--perhaps 2,000. Among the prisoners are many
who were paroled at Vicksburg. What shall I do with them?
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
-----
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., November 27, 1863--12 p.m.
(Received 4.50 p.m., 28th.)
General Palmer reports that Johnson's division, Fourteenth Corps, surprised
A. P. Stewart's division last night, taking four guns, two caissons, and
many prisoners. Hooker reports his arrival at Ringgold at 9 a.m. to-day.
Found the road strewn with caissons, limbers, and ambulances, and he commenced
skirmishing with the enemy at 11 a.m. in the railroad pass or gap, near
Ringgold. About half of Osterhaus' and third of Geary's divisions engaged
and forced the enemy to abandon the position he had taken in the passes.
Both divisions suffered severely, the enemy making obstinate resistance.
On the morning of the 24th, I sent Colonel Long, commanding Second
Brigade, Second Cavalry Division, across South Chickamauga, to make raids
on the East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad. He returned this evening, bringing
250 prisoners, and reports that he destroyed the railroad from Tyner's
Station to the Hiwassee and 10 miles southwest of Cleveland. He also destroyed
80 wagons, large quantities of commissary stores, and other supplies at
Cleveland. He attempted to destroy the pontoon across the Hiwassee, but
found it too strongly guarded for his force.
By direction of General Grant, I will send General Gordon Granger early
to-morrow up the Tennessee, to harass Longstreet as much as possible, and
draw him away from Knoxville. The prisoners we nave taken since the 23d
now sum up more than 5,000. I have three steam-boats running between Bridgeport
and this place. As soon as <ar55_92> repairs on the railroad are complete
we shall again be in good condition. Have been greatly embarrassed by the
condition of the means of transportation and the lines of communication.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, Commanding.
Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Chattanooga, December 1, 1863.
GENERAL: The following operations of the Army of the Cumberland since
October 31 are respectfully submitted to the General-in-Chief:
As soon as communications with Bridgeport had been made secure, and
the question of supplying the army at this point rendered certain, preparations
were at once commenced for driving the enemy from his position in our immediate
front on Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, and, if possible, to send
a force to the relief of Knoxville. To enable me to dislodge the enemy
from the threatening position he had assumed in our front guns of a heavier
caliber than those with the army were needed, also additional means for
crossing the Tennessee River. Brigadier-General Brannan, chief of artillery,
was directed to send for the necessary number of guns and ammunition, and
after consulting with Brig. Gen. W. F. Smith, chief engineer, to prepare
the batteries for the guns on their arrival. While awaiting the arrival
of the guns and ammunition, work was prosecuted on the fortifications around
the town. In addition to his duties of superintending the work on the fortifications,
General Smith pushed vigorously the construction of two pontoon bridges,
to be used in the execution of the movements which were determined upon
as necessary to a successful dislodgment of the enemy.
Guerrillas having become somewhat troublesome to the northeast of McMinnville
and east of the Caney Fork of the Cumberland, Brigadier-General Elliott,
chief of cavalry, was ordered, November 14, to establish his headquarters
with the First Division of Cavalry at or near Alexandria, and employ the
division in hunting up and exterminating these marauders. Elliott reached
Alexandria on the 18th, and on the 27th reports that his scouts met those
of Burnside on Flint Ridge, east of Sparta, and that Lieutenant-Colonel
Brownlow, with detachments from the First East Tennessee and Ninth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, attacked the rebel Colonel Murray on the 26th at Sparta, killing
1, wounding 2, and capturing 10 of the enemy, including a lieutenant of
Champ. Ferguson's; he also captured a few horses and some ammunition, and
destroyed extensive salt-works used by the rebels. A company of scouts,
under Captain Brixey, also encountered a party of guerrillas near Beersheba
Springs, capturing 15 or 20, and dispersing the rest.
Brig. Gen. R. S. Granger reports from Nashville, November 2, that--
A mixed command, under Lieutenant-Colonel Scully, First Middle Tennessee
Infantry, sent out from Nashville, attacked and defeated Hawkins and other
guerrilla chiefs, and pursued them to Centreville, Hickman County, where
Hawkins made another stand, attacking our forces while crossing the river.
Hawkins was again routed, and pursued until his forces dispersed. Rebel
loss from 15 to 20 killed and 6 prisoners; our loss 1 severely and several
slightly wounded. <ar55_93>
Again, on November 4, that--
Major Fitz Gibbon, Fourteenth Michigan Infantry, came upon the combined
forces of Cooper, Kirk, Williams, and Scott (guerrillas), at Lawrenceburg,
85 miles from Columbia, and after a severe hand-to-hand fight defeated
them, killing 8, wounding 7, and capturing 24 prisoners: among the latter,
1 captain and 2 lieutenants. Major Fitz Gibbon's loss, 3 men slightly wounded
and 8 horses killed. He reports the enemy 400 strong, and his force 120.
November 13:
Captain Cutler, with one company of mounted infantry and a portion
of Whittemore's battery (mounted), belonging to the garrison of Clarksville,
had a fight near Palmyra with Captain Grey's company of guerrillas, killing
2, wounding 5, and taking 1 prisoner; Cutler's loss, 1 lieutenant and 1
man wounded.
November 16:
Scout organized by Brigadier-General Paine, and sent out from Gallatin
and La Vergne, returned, and report having killed 5 and captured 26 guerrillas,
with horses, sheep, cattle, and hogs in their possession, collected for
the use of the rebel army.
Brigadier-General Crook, commanding Second Division of Cavalry, was
ordered, November 17, to concentrate his division at or near Huntsville,
Ala., and to patrol the north side of the Tennessee from Decatur to Bridgeport,
and to hunt up bands of guerrillas reported to be roaming about in that
region, arresting and robbing Union citizens. General Crook reports on
the 21st that an expedition sent down the Tennessee had destroyed nine
boats between Whitesburg and Decatur, some of them 60 feet long. The expedition
crossed the river and drove off the rebels, taking their boats. From the
best information to be obtained, there were two small regiments of cavalry
and one battery on the other side, doing picket duty. Lee and Roddey reported
as having gone to Mississippi. Major-General Sherman, commanding Army of
the Tennessee, having been ordered with the Fifteenth Corps to this point
to participate in the operations against the enemy, reached Bridgeport
with two divisions on the 15th. He came to the front himself, and having
examined the ground, expressed himself confident of his ability to execute
his share of the work. The plan of operations was then written out substantially
as follows: Sherman, with the Fifteenth Corps, strengthened with one division
from my command, was to effect a crossing of the Tennessee River just below
the mouth of the South Chickamauga, on Saturday, November 21, at daylight:
his crossing to be protected by artillery planted on the heights on the
north bank of the river. After crossing his force, he was to carry the
heights of Missionary Ridge from their northern extremity to about the
railroad tunnel before the enemy could concentrate a force against him.
I was to co-operate with Sherman by concentrating my troops in Chattanooga
Valley, on my left flank, leaving only the necessary force to defend the
fortifications on the right and center, with a movable column of one division
in readiness to move wherever ordered. This division was to show itself
as threateningly as possible on the most practicable line for making an
attack up the valley. I was then to effect a junction with Sherman, making
my advance from the left, well toward the north end of Mission Ridge, and
moving as near simultaneously with Sherman as possible. The junction once
formed and the Ridge carried, communications would be at once established
between the two armies by roads running on the south bank of the river.
Further movements to depend on those of the enemy. Lookout Valley was to
be held by Geary's division of the Twelfth Corps, and the two <ar55_94>
brigades of the Fourth Corps ordered to co-operate with him; the whole
under command of Major-General Hooker. Howard's corps was to be held in
readiness to act either with my troops at Chattanooga or with General Sherman's,
and was ordered to take up a position on Friday night on the north side
of the Tennessee near the first pontoon bridge, and there held in readiness
for such orders as might become necessary. General Smith commenced at once
to collect his pontoons and materials for bridges in the North Chickamauga
Creek, preparatory to the crossing of Sherman's troops, proper precautions
being taken that the enemy should not discover the movement. General Sherman
then returned to Bridgeport to direct the movements of his troops. Colonel
Long (Fourth Ohio Cavalry), commanding Second Brigade, Second Division
Cavalry, was ordered on the 16th to report at Chattanooga on Saturday,
the 21st, by noon; the intention being for him to follow up the left flank
of Sherman's troops, and if not required by General Sherman, he was to
cross the Chickamauga, make a raid upon the enemy's communications, and
do as much damage as possible. Owing to a heavy rain-storm, commencing
on Friday (20th), and lasting all of the 21st, General Sherman was not
enabled to get his troops in position in time to commence operations on
Saturday morning, as he expected.
Learning that the enemy had discovered Sherman's movements across Lookout
Valley, it was thought best that General Howard should cross over into
Chattanooga, thus attracting the attention of the enemy, with the intention
of leading him to suppose that those troops he had observed moving were
re-enforcing Chattanooga, and thereby concealing the real movements of
Sherman. Accordingly, Howard's corps was crossed into Chattanooga on Sunday,
and took up a position in full view of the enemy. In consequence of the
bad condition of the roads General Sherman's troops were occupied all of
Sunday in getting into position. In the meantime, the river having risen,
both pontoon bridges were broken by rafts sent down the river by the enemy,
cutting off Osterhaus' division from the balance of Sherman's troops. It
was thought this would delay us another day, but during the night of the
22d, two deserters reported Bragg had fallen back, and that there was only
a strong picket line in our front. Early on the morning of the 23d, I received
a note from Major-General Grant, directing me to ascertain by a demonstration
the truth or falsity of this report.
Orders were accordingly given to General Granger, commanding the Fourth
Corps, to form his troops and to advance directly in front of Fort Wood,
and thus develop the strength of the enemy. General Palmer, commanding
the Fourteenth Corps, was directed to support General Granger's right,
with Baird's division refused and en echelon. Johnson's division, Fourteenth
Corps, to be held in readiness, under arms, in the intrenchments, to re-enforce
at any point. Howard's corps was formed en masse behind the center of Granger's
corps. The two divisions of Granger's corps (Sheridan's and Wood's) were
formed in front of Fort Wood; Sheridan on the right, Wood on the left,
with his left extending nearly to Citico Creek. The formation being completed
about 2 p.m. the troops were advanced steadily and with rapidity directly
to the front, driving before them first the rebel pickets, then their reserves,
and falling upon their grand guards stationed in their first line of rifle-pits,
captured something over 200 men, and secured themselves in their new positions
before the enemy had sufficiently recovered from his surprise to attempt
to send re-enforcements <ar55_95> from his main camp. Orders were then
given to General Granger to make his position secure by constructing temporary
breastworks and throwing out strong pickets to his front. Howard's corps
was moved up on the left of Granger, with the same instructions, and Bridges'
(Illinois) battery was placed in position on Orchard Knob. The troops remained
in that position for the night. The Tennessee River having risen considerably
from the effect of the previous heavy rain-storm, it was found difficult
to rebuild the pontoon bridge at Brown's Ferry. Therefore it was determined
that General Hooker should take Osterhaus' division, which was still in
Lookout Valley, and Geary's division, Whitaker's and Grose's brigades,
of the First Division, Fourth Corps, under Brigadier-General Cruft, and
make a strong demonstration on the western slope of Lookout Mountain, for
the purpose of attracting the enemy's attention in that direction and thus
withdrawing him from Sherman while crossing the river at the mouth of the
South Chickamauga.
General Hooker was instructed that in making this demonstration, if
he discovered the position and strength of the enemy would justify him
in attempting to carry the point of the mountain, to do so. By 4 a.m. on
the morning of the 24th, General Hooker reported his troops in position
and ready to advance.
Finding Lookout Creek so much swollen as to be impassable, he sent
Geary's division, supported by Cruft's two brigades, to cross the creek
at Wauhatchie, and work down on the right bank, while he employed the remainder
of his force in constructing temporary bridges across the creek on the
main road. The enemy, being attracted by the force on the road, did not
observe the movements of Geary until his column was directly on their left
and threatened their rear. Hooker's movements were facilitated by the heavy
mist which overhung the mountain, enabling Geary to get into position without
attracting attention.
Finding himself vigorously pushed by a strong column on his left and
rear, the enemy began to fall back with rapidity, but his resistance was
obstinate, and the entire point of the mountain was not gained until about
2 p.m., when General Hooker reported by telegraph that he had carried the
mountain as far as the road from Chattanooga Valley to the white house.
Soon after his main column, coming up, his line was extended to the
foot of the mountain, near the mouth of Chattanooga Creek. His right, being
still strongly resisted by the enemy, was re-enforced by Carlin's brigade,
First Division, Fourteenth Corps, which arrived at the white house about
5 p.m., in time to take part in the contest still going on at that point.
Continuous and heavy skirmishing was kept up in Hooker's front until 10
at night, after which there was an unusual quietness along our whole front.
With the aid of the steamer Dunbar, which had been put in condition
and sent up the river at daylight of the 24th, General Sherman by 11 a.m.
had crossed three divisions of the Fifteenth Corps, and was ready to advance
as soon as Davis' division of the Fourteenth Corps commenced crossing.
Colonel Long (Fourth Ohio Cavalry), commanding Second Brigade. Second Division
Cavalry, was then ordered to move up at once, follow Sherman's advance
closely, and to proceed to carry out his instructions of the day before,
if not required by General Sherman to support his left flank.
Howard's corps moved to the left about 9 a.m., and communicated with
Sherman about noon. Instructions were sent to General Hooker <ar55_96>
to be ready to advance on the morning of the 25th from his position on
the point of Lookout Mountain to the Summertown road, and endeavor to intercept
the enemy's retreat, if he had not already withdrawn, which he was to ascertain
by pushing a reconnaissance to the top of Lookout Mountain.
The reconnaissance was made as directed, and having ascertained that
the enemy had evacuated during the night, General Hooker was then directed
to move on the Rossville road with the troops under his command (except
Carlin's brigade, which was to rejoin its division), carry the pass at
Rossville, and operate upon the enemy's left and rear. Palmer's and Granger's
troops were held in readiness to advance directly on the rifle-pits in
their front as soon as Hooker could get into position at Rossville. In
retiring on the night of the 24th, the enemy had destroyed the bridges
over Chattanooga Creek on the road leading from Lookout Mountain to Rossville,
and, in consequence, General Hooker was delayed until after 2 p.m. in effecting
the crossing of the creek. About noon, General Sherman becoming heavily
engaged by the enemy, they having massed a strong force in his front, orders
were given for General Baird to march his division within supporting distance
of General Sherman. Moving his command promptly in the direction indicated,
he was placed in position to the left of Wood's division of Granger's corps.
Owing to the difficulties of the ground, his troops did not get in
line with Granger's until about 2.30 p.m. Orders were then given him, however,
to move forward on Granger's left, and within supporting distance, against
the enemy's rifle-pits on the slope and at the foot of Missionary Ridge.
The whole line then advanced against the breastworks, and soon became warmly
engaged with the enemy's skirmishers; these, giving way, retired upon their
reserves, posted within their works. Our troops advancing steadily in a
continuous line, the enemy, seized with panic, abandoned the works at the
foot of the hill and retreated precipitately to the crest, where they were
closely followed by our troops, who, apparently inspired by the impulse
of victory, carried the hill simultaneously at six different points, and
so closely upon the heels of the enemy that many of them were taken prisoners
in the trenches. We captured all their cannon and ammunition before they
could be removed or destroyed.
After halting for a few moments to reorganize the troops, who had Become
somewhat scattered in the assault of the hill, General Sheridan pushed
forward in pursuit, and drove those in his front who escaped capture across
Chickamauga Creek. Generals Wood and Baird, being obstinately resisted
by re-enforcements from the enemy's extreme right, continued fighting until
darkness set in, slowly but steadily driving the enemy before them. In
moving upon Rossville, General Hooker encountered Stewart's division and
other troops. Finding his left flank threatened, Stewart attempted to escape
by retreating toward Graysville, but some of his force, finding their retreat
threatened from that quarter, retired in disorder toward their right, along
the crest of the ridge, when they were met by another portion of General
Hooker's command, and were driven by these troops in the face of Johnson's
division of Palmer's corps, by whom they were nearly all made prisoners.
It will be perceived from the above report that the original plan
of operations was somewhat modified to meet and take the best advantage
of emergencies, which necessitated material modifications of that plan
[boldface mine]. It is believed, however, that the original plan, had it
been <ar55_97> carried out, could not possibly have led to more successful
results. The alacrity displayed by officers in executing their orders,
the enthusiasm and spirit displayed by the men who did the work, cannot
be too highly appreciated by the nation, for the defense of which they
have on so many other memorable occasions nobly and patriotically exposed
their lives in battle. Howard's corps (Eleventh) having joined Sherman
on the 24th, his operations from that date will be included in Sherman's
report; also those of Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis division, of the Fourteenth
Corps, who reported for duty to General Sherman on the 21st. General Granger's
command returned to Chattanooga, with instructions to prepare and hold
themselves in readiness for orders to re-enforce General Burnside at Knoxville.
On the 26th, the enemy were pursued by Hooker's and Palmer's commands,
surprising a portion of their rear guard near Graysville after nightfall,
capturing three pieces of artillery and several hundred prisoners. The
pursuit was continued on the 27th, capturing an additional piece of artillery
at Graysville. Hooker's advance encountered the enemy posted in the pass
through Taylor's Ridge, who, after an obstinate resistance of an hour,
were driven from the pass with considerable loss in killed, wounded, and
prisoners. Our loss was also heavy. A large quantity of forage and some
additional caissons and ammunition were captured at Ringgold. On the 28th,
Colonel Long (Fourth Ohio Cavalry) returned to Chattanooga from his expedition,
and reported verbally that on the 24th he reached Tyner's Station, destroying
the enemy's forage and rations at that place, also some cars, and doing
considerable injury to the railroad. He then proceeded to Ooltewah, where
he captured and destroyed some trains loaded with forage. From thence he
proceeded to Cleveland, remaining there one day, destroyed their cop-per-rolling
mill and a large depot of commissary and ordnance stores. Being informed
that a train of the enemy's wagons was near Charleston, on the Hiwassee,
and was probably unable to cross the river on account of the break in their
pontoon bridge, after a few hours rest he pushed forward with a hope of
being able to destroy them, but found, on reaching Charleston, that the
enemy had repaired their bridge and had crossed their trains safely, and
were prepared to defend the crossing with one or two pieces of artillery,
supported by an infantry force on the north bank. He then returned to Cleveland
and damaged the railroad for 5 or 6 miles in the direction of Dalton, and
then returned to Chattanooga.
On the 28th, General Hooker was ordered by General Grant to remain
at Ringgold until the 30th, and so employ his troops as to cover the movements
of General Sherman, who had received orders to march his force to the relief
of Burnside by way of Cleveland and Loudon. Palmer's corps was detached
from the force under General Hooker and returned to Chattanooga.
I have the honor to annex hereto consolidated returns of prisoners,
captured property, and casualties.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U. S. Vols., Commanding.
Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army.
«7 R R--VOL XXXI, PT II» <ar55_98>
[Inclosure No 1.]
Report of Casualties, Department of the Cumberland, during the battle
of Chattanooga, November, 1863.
O Officers. T Total Men. A Aggregate
FOURTH ARMY CORPS - Major General GRANGER
----Killed---- ---Wounded---- ---Missing---
| Command | O | M | T | O | M | T | O | M | T | A |
| First.Division,.Major-General.Stanley | 1 | 18 | 19 | 5 | 80 | 85 | .... | .... | .... | 104 |
| Second.Division,.Major-General.Sheridan | 12 | 123 | 135 | 105 | 1,046 | 1,151 | .... | .... | .... | 1,286 |
| Third.Division,.Brigadier-General.Wood | 14 | 136 | 150 | 59 | 792 | 851 | .... | .... | .... | 1,001 |
| Total | 27 | 277 | 304 | 169 | 1,918 | 2,087 | .... | .... | .... | (a)2,391 |
FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS.(b) Major-General PALMER.
| First.Division,.Brigadier-General.Johnson.(c) | .... | .... | 46 | .... | .... | 258 | .... | .... | .... | 304 |
| Second.Division,.Brigadier-General.Davis | .... | .... | .... | .... | .... | .... | .... | .... | .... | (d) |
| Third.Division,.Brigadier-General.Baird. | .... | .... | 97 | .... | .... | 461 | .... | .... | 7 | 565 |
| Total | .... | .... | 143 | .... | .... | 719 | .... | .... | 7 | 869 |
ELEVENTH ARMY CORPS - Major-General HOWARD.
| Second.Division,.Brigadier-General.von.Steinwehr | 3 | 22 | 25 | 14 | 162 | 176 | 8 | 116 | 124 | 325 |
| Third.Division,.Major-General.Schurz. | .... | 1 | 1 | 1 | 13 | 14 | .... | 10 | 10 | 25 |
| Total | 3 | 23 | 26 | 15 | 175 | 190 | 8 | 126 | 134 | 350 |
TWELFTH ARMY CORPS - Major-General SLOCUM.
| First.Division,.Brigadier-General.Williams.(e) | .... | .... | .... | .... | ........ | .... | .... | .... | .... | |
| Second.Division,.Brigadier-General.Geary | 7 | 49 | 56 | 33 | 252 | 285 | .... | 44 | 345 | |
| Total | 7 | 49 | 56 | 33 | 252 | 285 | .... | 4 | 4 | 345 |
| Grand.total(*) | 37 | 349 | 529 | 217 | 2,345 | 3,281 | 8 | 130 | 145 | 3,955 |
At least 225 rebels killed.
[Inclosure No. 2.]
The following is a copy of a telegram just received from Major-General
Granger at Knoxville. The list of casualties in the Fourth Army Corps on
the previous page [above] is compiled from the statements <ar55_99>
of staff officers at this place; the discrepancy cannot be explained until
General Granger's report is received.
STRAWBERRY PLAINS, VIA CALHOUN, TENN., January 16, 1864.
General GEORGE H. THOMAS,
Chattanooga, Tenn.:
Lost in Sheridan's and Wood's divisions, 2,544 men; in Stanley's, about
200.
G. GRANGER, Major-General.
[Inclosure No. 3.]
Report of rebel deserters and prisoners of war received and captured
October 20-December 1, 1863.
O Officers. T Total. M Men. A Aggregate.
---October.---- -----November.------ ---Total.----
| Command | O | M | T | O | M | T | O | M | A |
| Deserters | 1 | 40 | 41 | 2 | 530 | 532 | 3 | 570 | 573 |
| Prisoners.of.war | 6 | 92 | 98 | 230 | 5,241 | 5,471 | 236 | 5,333 | 5,569 |
| Total | 7 | 132 | 139 | 232 | 5,771 | 6,003 | 239 | 5,903 | 6,142 |
[lnclosure No. 4.]
ORDNANCE OFFICE, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn.,
January 16, 1864.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the
Cumberland:
SIR: I have the honor to transmit herewith a list of all ordnance and
ordnance stores captured from the enemy, together with a list of expenditures
and losses by our own troops, in the recent battle of Chattanooga:
Captured from the enemy.
FIELD GUNS AND HOWITZERS.
Smooth-bores:
6-pounder guns, 3.67-inch bore 8
12-pounder light guns, Confederate pattern, 4.62-inch bore 13
12-pounder light guns, model 1857, Leeds & Co., New Orleans
6
12-pounder field howitzers, 4.62-inch bore 3
Total smooth-bores 30
Rifled guns:
3-inch, Confederate pattern 1
10-pounder Parrott gun, model 1861, 2.9-inch bore 4
6-pounder field, 3.67-inch bore 2
6-pounder James, 3.80-inch bore 1
Total rifled guns 8
Siege, garrison, and sea coast guns: 24-pounder guns, 5.82-inch bore
2
Total pieces captured 40
<ar55_100>
ARTILLERY CARRIAGES.
Field carriages:
For field 12-pounder gun 13
For l2-pounder field guns (no limbers) 6
For 6-pounder field guns 5
For 6-pounder field guns (no limbers) 3
For 12-pounder field howitzers (no limbers) 3
For 10-pounder rifled guns 3
For 10-pounder rifled guns (no limbers) 1
For 6-pounder rifled guns (no limbers) 3
For 3-inch rifled guns 1
Caissons:
For 12-pounder light guns 18
For 12-pounder field howitzers 2
For 10-pounder rifled guns 3
For 6-pounder rifled guns 2
For 3-inch rifled guns 1
Battery wagons 4
Traveling forges 1
Artillery harness: A good many parts of harness were also captured,
but no complete sets.
ARTILLERY AMMUNITION.
Rounds.
For light 12-pounder gun 1,137
For 12-pounder field howitzer 320
For 6-pounder field gun 347
For 10-pounder rifled gun 324
For 3-inch rifled gun 57
For 3.8-inch rifled gun 151
MISCELLANEOUS.
Rounds.
Small-arms:
Stand of small-arms, mostly Enfield 6,175
Cavalry sabers 28
Infantry accouterments:
Bayonet scabbards 547
Cap pouches 511
Cartridge boxes 1,911
Cartridge-box plates 439
Cartridge-box belts 149
Waist belts 165
Waist-belt plates 149
Infantry ammunition rounds 55,000
Expended and lost by our own troops.
Small-arms stand 211
Infantry accouterments sets.. 171
Artillery ammunition rounds 1,977
Infantry ammunition do 1,460,125
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. G. BAYLOR, Captain, and Chief of Ordnance, Dept. of the Cumberland.
ADDENDA.
SOUTH CHICKAMAUGA SIGNAL STATION, November 22, 1863.
Captain MERRILL, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of the Cumberland:
CAPTAIN: A heavy body of troops are moving in direction of our left
on crest of Missionary Ridge. One portion of them are northeast <ar55_101>
of the tunnel on the crest of the ridge, their train being directly above
the tunnel. Another portion of them are on the crest of the ridge and side,
also near the farthest log fortifications on their right. I think they
are moving down the east side of Missionary Ridge.
DE MOTTE, Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
SIGNAL STATION OPPOSITE SOUTH CHICKAMAUGA, November 22, 1863--10 a.m.
Captain MERRILL:
Column of infantry--at least one division--moving to our left from
rebel center along the base of Missionary Ridge.
QUINTON, Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
MOCCASIN POINT SIGNAL STATION, November 22, 1863. (Received 11.55 a.m.)
Captain LEONARD:
Can see artillery and long train of wagons going up the road on Mission
Ridge, eight degrees east of south from this station.
WOOD, Captain, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
BALD MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, November 22, 1863--4 p.m.
Captain MERRILL, Chief Signal Officer :
The enemy are stirring; moving toward our right.
QUINTON, Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Caldwell's Ferry, Tenn.,
November 22, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
GENERAL: A few moments after the first guns of artillery were fired
at Chattanooga this morning, the enemy's infantry was discovered moving
rapidly up the hill a little below and opposite this point. A column of
a brigade has passed since first discovered. The column is still moving
on. They seem to be moving for action. No wagons are to be seen with it.
I send this by my medical director, Surgeon Payne, who can give particulars.
Very respectfully,
JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
P. S.--Since writing the above the column is seen going up the river,
and a large train is also seen moving up the river some distance above
this point.
<ar55_102>
NOVEMBER 22, 1863-1.50 p.m.
Major-General THOMAS:
All the enemy's camps upon his right look like they are deserted. The
troops are evidently out of them for some purpose or other.
JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier-General.
-----
SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS No. 313.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 22, 1863.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
II. In accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 272 (current series),
from these headquarters, Brig. Gen. Jeff. C. Davis, commanding Second Division,
Fourteenth Army Corps, is hereby detailed as general officer of the day
for to-morrow, November 23, 1863. He will report at these headquarters
at 8 a.m. to-morrow for instructions.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
By command of Major-General Thomas:
WILLIAM McMICHAEL, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, November 23, 1863.
Lieutenant QUINTON:
General Thomas wants to know whether in your dispatch of yesterday
the rebels were moving toward our right or toward Rossville. You must be
more particular.
JESSE MERRILL, Captain, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
STATION OPPOSITE SOUTH CHICKAMAUGA, November 23, 1863. (Received 10
a.m.)
Captain MERRILL:
They were moving toward Rossville; came out of their camps by company,
formed on their color line, and moved off by regiments. I counted ten regiments.
QUINTON, Lieutenant, Acting Signal Officer.
-----
NOVEMBER 23, 1863.
General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
I send you the following rebel message. It is not quite complete:
11 p.m.
HARDEE:
Enemy all north of east. Troops were massed from left to center. Those
on the right moved to center. South from Raccoon, on mountain, were in
line in full sight, east. If they intend to attack, I think it will be
on our left. Bridges gone.
C. L. STEVENSON.
Respectfully submitted.
JESSE MERRILL, Captain, and Chief Signal Officer.
<ar55_103>
NOVEMBER 23, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS,
Chief of Staff:
GENERAL: I send two more rebel messages, the first one taken from Lookout
and the other from Missionary Ridge :(*)
HARDEE:
I observed from this point the movements of the enemy until --. The
object seemed to be to attract our attention. The troops in sight were
formed from center to left. Those on the right moved to center. Troops
from Raccoon were in line in full sight. If they intend to attack my opinion
is it will be upon our left. Both of their bridges are gone.
S[TEVENSON],
General.
On whose left did General S. think your attack would be made? Respectfully
submitted.
JESSE MERRILL, Captain, and Chief Signal Officer.
-----
ORCHARD KNOB, November 23, 1863--3 p.m.
General THOMAS:
The enemy's rifle-pits in front, 1,200 yards, very strong and filled
with rebels. They cannot be carried without heavy loss.
G. GRANGER, Major-General.
-----
NOVEMBER 23, 1863--4.15 p.m.
General THOMAS:
Heavy columns are passing to our left to the front of Howard. They
have double lines of rifle-pits in his front.
G. GRANGER, Major-General.
-----
CHATTANOOGA, November 23, 1863--6.40 p.m.
Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General:
GENERAL: An order has just been handed me directed to Brigadier-General
Baird, directing him to "close to the left on Sheridan." Is it intended
that he shall advance so as to connect with Sheridan's line?
JOHN M. PALMER, Major-general, Commanding.
-----
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, November 23, 1863--6.30 p.m.
Major-General PALMER, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps:
The general commanding directs that General Baird's troops move to
the left and connect with General Sheridan. The troops need not <ar55_104>
move farther to the front than is necessary to connect, and only those
on the extreme left.
By command of Major-General Thomas:
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-general. and Chief of Staff.
-----
NOVEMBER 23, 1863.
General GRANGER:
Hold and strengthen your position. General Howard's corps is taking
position on your left.
By order of Major-General Thomas:
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 23,
1863.
Major-General GRANGER, Commanding Fourth Army Corps:
The general commanding department directs that you throw one division
of the Fourth Corps forward in the direction of Orchard Knob, and hold
a second division in supporting distance, to disclose the position of the
enemy, if he still remain in the vicinity of his old camp. Howard's and
Baird's commands will be ready to co-operate if needed.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
[Indorsement.]
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, November 23, 1863.
Brigadier-General Wood, with his division, will, as soon as possible,
carry out the foregoing instructions, and he will be supported by General
Sheridan's division, to be posted along near the line of railroad, its
right resting about midway between Moore's road and the Brush Knob, in
front of Lunette Palmer.
G. GRANGER, Major-General.
-----
NOVEMBER 23, 1863--9 p.m.
Major-General THOMAS, Commanding:
GENERAL: They signaled from Lookout Mountain that both our pontoons
were broken. This was only the latter portion of the message; all that
could be caught. All quiet except a few shots on Sheridan's right. From
the exclamations, I think probably some deserters coming in.
Respectfully,
J. C. McKIBBIN, Colonel.
<ar55_105>
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
INSPECTOR GENERAL'S OFFICE, November 20, 1863--10 p.m.
GENERAL: Nothing of importance except heavy camp fires in Chattanooga
Valley, extending clear back to the Nickajack road, as if troops had come
down the mountain.
The following was signaled from Lookout Mountain:
Maj. D. H POOLE:
What is the position of things on the right
JACKSON.
J. C. McKIBBIN, Colonel.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 23,
1863--10 p.m.
Major-General HOOKER,
Lookout Valley:
If Woods' division does not get across the river by daybreak, he is
ordered to report to you, and in that event the general commanding department
directs that you endeavor to take the point of Lookout Mountain.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November
23, 1863--10.50 p.m.
Maj. Gen. JOSEPH J. REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Department of the
Cumberland:
GENERAL: The firing heard when I left headquarters was only a few shots
on Baird's front. Baird informed me that before receiving the order to
close to the left on Sheridan, he was in that position. After leaving him
I rode around the line of pickets on my front. The officer in command of
the advance post immediately to right of Rossville road reports the movement
of wagons on his front, but could give no information as to the direction
they were moving. He said, "They are massing troops on our front; I heard
distinctly the order, 'close in mass.'" The officer in command of a detachment
of the Sixteenth and Nineteenth Regulars reports the felling of trees by
the enemy near the base of Lookout Mountain. From the direction he pointed
in giving the information, they may be blocking the road around the point
of the mountain.
Very respectfully,
JOHN M. PALMER, Major-General, Commanding'.
-----
HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., SECOND DIV., 14TH ARMY CORPS, North Chickamauga
Creek, Tenn., November 23, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
SIR: I have the honor to report that a rebel picket, on the opposite
side of the river, called across to one of my pickets, and asked <ar55_106>
when we would be ready to move our pontoon-boats out of the creek. And
also said, "You Yankees think you will take us by surprise." From this
it seems that the rebels have become acquainted with our movements; this
is nothing more than I anticipated, for on last Tuesday, before I myself
was fully advised of the plan, and before a single pontoon had reached
this point, and even before the road was cut to convey them hither, a citizen
fully detailed the plan to one of my captains, stationed at Moccasin Gap.
On the morning the pontoons left Chattanooga, at least 20 citizens were
allowed to pass them unmolested and unarrested, before the pontoons had
left the Poe road to come to this point.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DANL. McCOOK.
-----
SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS No. 314.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 23, 1863.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
II. In accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 272, current series,
from these headquarters, Brig. Gen. R. W. Johnson, commanding First Division,
Fourteenth Army Corps, is hereby detailed as general officer of the day
for to-morrow, November 24, 1863. He will report at these headquarters
at 8 a.m. to-morrow for instructions.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
By command of Major-General Thomas:
WILLIAM McMICHAEL, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 24,
1863--12.30 a.m.
Major-General HOOKER,
Lookout Valley:
Intercepted rebel dispatch is to the effect that rebels expect us to
attack them on their left in the morning. General commanding desires that
you make demonstrations early as possible after daybreak on point of Lookout
Mountain. General Grant still hopes Woods division will get across to join
Sherman, in which case your demonstration will aid Sherman's crossing.
If Woods can't cross you can take the point of Lookout if your demonstration
develops its practicability.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
HOOKER'S HEADQUARTERS, November 24, 1863--2 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
I am just informed that Woods' division will not be able to cross the
river for twelve hours, and in consequence have given directions <ar55_107>
for it to take position for an advance on Lookout Nose, to be there at
sunrise. That there may be no mistake as to the crossing, I will send a
staff officer to ascertain positively.
HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
LOOKOUT VALLEY, November 24, 1863--3.15 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
I now have information that the bridge will not be completed today,
and I have made preparations accordingly. I will make my demonstrations
as soon after daylight as practicable.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
LOOKOUT VALLEY, November 24, 1863--7.30 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
My troops are all in position, but in consequence of the swollen state
of the creek the crossing will be delayed an hour or so.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
LOOKOUT VALLEY, November 24, 1863--8 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
I have sent Geary, supported by Whitaker, to cross the creek at Wauhatchie,
and work down on the right bank of it.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
BALD MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, November 24, 1863--8 a.m.
Captain MERRILL:
One division of infantry is now moving toward our left on Missionary
Ridge.
J. H. CONNELLY, Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.
-----
OPPOSITE SOUTH CHICKAMAUGA, November 24, 1863--11 a.m. (Received 12
m.)
Captain MERRILL:
Sherman has three divisions across and four guns. Rebels moving heavy
force to our left. They have a battery at Tunnel bridge. Bridge laid; steamer
ferrying.
QUINTON, Signal Officer.
<ar55_108>
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
INSPECTOR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT, Fort Wood, [November] 24, 1863--11
a.m.
Major-General THOMAS:
GENERAL: The enemy are moving by flank to our left on Missionary Ridge.
(Signal from Colonel Barnett's battery, opposite side of river.)
G. M. L. JOHNSON, Captain, and Acting Assistant Inspector-General.
-----
LOOKOUT VALLEY, November 24, 1863--11 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
I am in condition to cross the creek, but as it will be attended with
some considerable loss, I have deemed it advisable to await the arrival
of Geary's command down its right bank before doing so. I think that he
will be up as early as 12 o'clock.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
LOOKOUT VALLEY, November 24, 1863--12.15 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
The valley is now clear. General Geary's division is on the crest of
the slope of Lookout Mountain.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
BALD MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, November 24, 1863--12.20 p.m.
Major-General THOMAS:
General Howard's column has formed junction with Sherman.
C. A. DANA.
-----
SIGNAL STATION OPPOSITE SIDE OF RIVER, November 24, [1863]--12.30 p.m.
General THOMAS:
Bridge completed.
DANA.
-----
CAMERON HILL SIGNAL STATION, November 24, [1863.]
(Received 12.30 p.m.)
Captain MERRILL:
Our forces have carried the works near white house, on Lookout.
HOWGATE.
<ar55_109>
FORT WOOD (FROM SIGNAL STATION OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE RIVER), November
24--1 p.m.
General THOMAS:
Woods is about to cross.
DANA.
-----
HOOKER'S HEADQUARTERS, November 24, [1863]--1.25 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
In announcing the fact of our great success this morning I had no time
to state its results. The conduct of all the troops has been brilliant,
and the success has far exceeded my expectations. Our loss has not been
severe, and of prisoners I should judge that we had not less than 2,000.
The bulk of my infantry is now assembling on the east side of Lookout Mountain.
Of course the routes do not admit of the passage of artillery.
HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST DIV., FOURTH ARMY CORPS, White House, Lookout
Mountain, Nov. 24, [1863]--2 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
I have established my headquarters in the white house, on Lookout Mountain.
The enemy are massing rapidly on my right. Support me. Have taken two guns.
Respectfully,
W. C. WHITAKER, Brigadier-General.
-----
HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST DIV., 4TH ARMY CORPS, White House, on Lookout,
November 24, [1863]--2 p.m.
Lieutenant-Colonel FULLERTON, Chief Of Staff:
I am in possession of the white house, on Lookout Mountain, and if
I get ammunition I can hold it. The enemy are massing on my right.
Respectfully,
W. C. WHITAKER, Brigadier-General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Chattanooga, Tenn., November 24, 1863.
CAPTAIN: Can you let General Whitaker have ammunition? We have no ordnance
officer, and General Granger is in the front.
Very respectfully,
J. S. FULLERTON, Lieutenant-Colonel, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
<ar55_110>
HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 24, 1863.
Major-General HOOKER:
General Thomas has just ordered the Moccasin Point battery to open
on the Summertown road. Order sent by courier.
J. P. WILLARD, Captain, and Aide-de-Camp.
-----
HDQRS. SIGNAL CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, November 24, 1863.
Captain WILLARD, Aide-de-Camp:
CAPTAIN: The order from General Thomas to batteries on Moccasin Point,
directing them to open on Summertown road, cannot be sent just now, on
account of mist and rain. I will send it as soon as possible, unless otherwise
directed.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JESSE MERRILL, Captain, and Chief Signal Officer.
-----
Captain MERRILL:
Please send me a copy of the order.
J. P. W[ILLARD].
-----
NOVEMBER 24, 1863--2.35 p.m.
WOOD:
General Thomas directs that the battery on [Moccasin] Point open on
the Summertown road immediately.
MERRILL.
-----
NOVEMBER 24, 1863. (Received 3.10.)
Captain LEONARD:
Naylor's and Aleshire's batteries are firing at enemy in line of battle
on our right, beyond rolling mills.
WOOD, Lieutenant, and Signal Officer.
-----
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, November 24, 1863--3.45 p.m.
General HOOKER:
Hold position until you can replenish ammunition. Brigade getting across
Chattanooga Creek to support you.
By command of Major-General Thomas:
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General.
<ar55_111>
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 24,
1863.
Major-General HOOKER:
Your success is glorious. Resupply ammunition if possible. We are crossing
a brigade to connect with you. Send prisoners to Kelley's Ferry to be guarded.
Take accurate list.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff:
-----
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, November 24, 1863--4 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
It is so dark in Chattanooga Valley that it is impossible for me to
see the position of the enemy or his numbers, and I deem it very imprudent
to descend into it to-night. I hold the line from the white house to the
point where the railroad passes beneath the mountain down the river on
the Chattanooga side.
We have smart skirmishing along the line, particularly the upper part
of it, but my troops are unflinching, and cannot be driven from their position,
which they are strengthening every moment. The enemy continue to hold the
top of Lookout Mountain, and I cannot prevent it until I can move around
and take possession of the Summertown road, which, as I am informed, requires
me to descend into the valley.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, November 24, 1863--5.15 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
General Carlin's brigade has just reported to me. I have sent it to
the right of my line, resting on the white house, as this was held by troops
exhausted from the labors of to-day. At this point they will be in position
to threaten the enemy's rear, if he does not retire before morning.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, November 24, 1863--6.40 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
I am all right for to-night. In the morning I shall be short of batteries,
though I hope to have the road and the bridges in condition to enable me
to bring forward some of mine by the time I shall require them. The enemy
had felled trees across the Chattanooga road over the mountain, and a slide
in the road made it necessary to expend a good deal of labor upon it. From
the dense fog to-day I have not been able to learn much of the topography
of Chattanooga Valley in my front. For this reason I suggest that the operations
<ar55_112> of to-morrow be suspended until the fog lifts, if it should
not require too much detention. I request that General Smith will forward
me the map of which he spoke a day or two since.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 24,
1863--9.30 p.m.
Major-General HOOKER, Lookout Valley:
The general commanding the department congratulates you most heartily
upon your glorious success to-day, and desires that you convey his warmest
thanks to the troops under your command for their valorous conduct. General
Grant has just directed that General Sherman move along Missionary Ridge
to-morrow with his force, while our force advances to the front, co-operating
with Sherman and compelling the enemy to show whether he occupies his rifle-pits
in our front. Be in readiness to advance as early as possible in the morning
into Chattanooga Valley and seize and hold the Summertown road and co-operate
with the Fourteenth Corps by supporting its right. Map sent by courier
at 8 o'clock this evening.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS No. 315.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 24, 1863.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
II. In accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 272, current series,
from these headquarters, Maj. Gen. P. H. Sheridan, commanding Second Division,
Fourth Army Corps, is hereby detailed as general officer of the day for
to-morrow, November 25, 1863. He will report at these headquarters at 8
a.m. to-morrow for instructions.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
By command of Major-General Thomas:
WILLIAM McMICHAEL, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, November 25, [1863. ]
General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff:
I had the flag of our country unfurled on Lookout's bold front at sunrise
this morning, and have possession of the point. Have skirmished it for
a mile on top. Saw only 6 rebels.
Respectfully,
W. C. WHITAKER, Brigadier-General.
<ar55_113>
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, White House, Lookout Mountain,
November 25, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
I have the honor to report that we have possession of the peak of Lookout
Mountain. Present indications point to the enemy's having abandoned our
front; prisoners think they have abandoned the valley entirely. Have ordered
a reconnaissance to get some information, and will know more presently.
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
NOVEMBER 25, [1863]--7 a.m.
Major-General HOOKER:
The general commanding desires that you immediately move forward, in
accordance with instructions of last evening.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, and Chief of Staff.
-----
[Captain WILLARD,
Aide-de-Camp:]
CAPTAIN: We have no communication with General Hooker. The two officers
were ordered to join General Hooker on the mountain, and are on their way
there now. Will have communication very soon, I think. I will send message
as soon as open.
Respectfully, JESSE MERRILL.
-----
WHITE HOUSE, LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, November 25, 1863--8.15 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
Column of troops passing along Mission Ridge to our left; been moving
for some little time.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, November 25, 1863--8.45
a.m.
(Received 9.45 a.m.)
Major-General HOWARD:
The general commanding department directs that you move your force
toward General Sherman's, looking well to your right flank «8 R R--VOL
XXXI, PT II» <ar55_114> and in readiness to form line on your
right in case you should be attacked on the march.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, and Chief of Staff.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, White House, Lookout Mountain,
November 25, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
Upon the clearing up of the fog, since dispatch at sunrise, we can
see the enemy's camps over on the slope of Missionary Ridge and in the
valley near there. Our glasses are not strong enough to detect how thickly
they are filled. I failed to inform you yesterday that we captured two
pieces of artillery and about two thousand stand of small-arms; the latter
are scattered over the whole field of yesterday.
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
SIGNAL STATION OPPOSITE SOUTH CHICKAMAUGA, November 25, 1863--9 a.m.
Captain MERRILL:
One division infantry is now moving toward our left on Missionary Ridge.
CONNELLY, Signal Officer.
[Indorsement.]
Communication has just been opened with Lookout, and message to General
Hooker sent.
MERRILL.
-----
ORCHARD KNOB, November 25, 1863--9 a.m.
COMMANDING OFFICER,
Fort Wood:
Do not fire any more from Fort Wood, except an occasional shot into
the enemy's rifle-pits on their extreme right, and on top of the ridge,
when the enemy show themselves in force.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
-----
WHITE HOUSE, LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, November 25, 1863--9.20 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
Have regiment on Summertown road; one on summit of Lookout. Enemy reported
picketing Chattanooga Creek. They appear to be burning camps in valley.
I await orders.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
<ar55_115>
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, November 25, 1863--10.10 a.m.
Major-General HOOKER:
Leave Carlin's brigade at Summertown road, to rejoin Palmer. Move with
the remainder of your force, except two regiments to hold Lookout Mountain,
on the Rossville road toward Missionary Ridge, looking well to your right
flank.
By order Major-General Thomas:
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General.
-----
ORCHARD KNOB, November 25, 1863--10.30 a.m.
COMMANDING OFFICER,
Fort Wood:
The enemy is in force in farther edge of woods below their camp to
left of Orchard Knob. Put a few shells in there.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
-----
ORCHARD KNOB, November 25, 1863--10.45 a.m.
Battery North Side of River:
Your elevation is too small. Shells fall just in front of our troops.
Fire at enemy's camp and top of ridge.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
-----
MOCCASIN POINT SIGNAL STATION, November 25, [1863]--10.45 a.m.
[Captain LEONARD :]
CAPTAIN: Fifty degrees east of south, and about 2 miles distant, heavy
column of rebels moving toward Missionary Ridge.
WOOD, Signal Officer.
-----
ORCHARD KNOB, November 25, 1863--11 a.m.
COMMANDING OFFICER,
Fort Wood:
You are firing in the wrong direction. Fire near the tunnel north of
Orchard Knob.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
<ar55_116>
NOVEMBER 25, 1863--12 m.
Major-General HOOKER:
I wish you and General Palmer to move forward firmly and steadily upon
the enemy's works in front of Missionary Ridge, using General Sheridan
as a pivot.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General.
-----
NEAR CHATTANOOGA CREEK, TENN., November 25, 1863--1.25 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
I have been delayed preparing crossing at Chattanooga Creek. Bridges
are destroyed. Shall be stopped perhaps an hour. The advance are skirmishing
with the enemy across the creek, probably rear guard.
The bearer will return with any dispatches.
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
MISSIONARY RIDGE, November 25, 1863--1.35 p.m.
General REYNOLDS:
Have you seen General Hooker? Failed to find him. Established no headquarters.
Reported gone to Chattanooga. His forces gone to Carlin's brigade on ridge.
Granger, Sheridan, and Hazen at Bragg's headquarters.
JOHNSON, Captain, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
MISSIONARY RIDGE, November 25, 1863--6 p.m.
General THOMAS:
I think we have them, but I want a battery.
Respectfully,
GRANGER, General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, BRAGG'S VACATED HEADQUARTERS,
Missionary Ridge, November 25, 1863--7.15 p.m.
Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Department of the Cumberland:
GENERAL: It is probable that we can cut off a large number of the enemy
by making a bold dash upon the Chickamauga, either <ar55_117> upon the
Rossville road or the one to the north of it, or upon all of the roads
leading from our present front to the Chickamauga. The enemy are evidently
badly demoralized. Our men are in great courage and in spirits. I am ready
for any orders or dispositions you may be pleased to make.
We have captured about forty pieces of artillery and about 2,000 prisoners,
small-arms, &c., in proportion, besides 50 wagon loads of forage.
G. GRANGER, Major-General, Commanding.
P. S.--The enemy's loss in killed, wounded, and prisoners is very heavy.
-----
DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS,
Chattanooga, November 25, 1863--12 m.
Major-General GRANGER, Missionary Ridge:
Your dispatch of 7.15 p.m. was duly received. Please accept my hearty
congratulations on the splendid success of your troops, and convey to them
my cordial thanks for the brilliant style in which they carried the enemy's
works. Their conduct cannot be too highly appreciated. I have just seen
General Grant, who desires that you make preparations to move up the river
as soon as possible.
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U.S. Vols., Commanding.
[Indorsement.]
This message was sent to Missionary Ridge, but as messages came from
there, I concluded he is in town.
SHERIDAN, U.S. Army.
-----
SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS No. 316.
HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 25, 1863.
I. In accordance with Special Field Orders, No. 272, current series,
from these headquarters, Brig. Gen. A. Baird, commanding Third Division,
Fourteenth Army Corps, is hereby detailed as general officer of the day
for to-morrow, November 26, 1863. He will report at these headquarters
at 8 a.m. to-morrow for instructions.
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
By command of Major-General Thomas:
WILLIAM McMICHAEL, Major, and Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
GENERAL ORDERS No. 7.
HDQRS. ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, Lookout Mountain, Tenn., Nov. 25,
1863.
The splendid achievements of the troops engaged in the assault and
capture of Lookout Mountain have elicited from the general commanding the
department his warmest congratulations, and it is <ar55_118> with the
highest satisfaction they are communicated to the command. The triumphs
of yesterday, the successive gallant charges up the mountain side over
the enemy's intrenchment, with the successful results, will be remembered
as long as the giant peak of Lookout shall be their mute but eloquent monument.
No words of the major-general commanding can express his admiration for
the conduct and valor displayed during the operations of yesterday by the
troops engaged, including the First Division of the Fourth Corps; the First
Division, Fifteenth Corps; the First Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth
Corps, and the Second Division, Twelfth Corps.
The following extract from a telegram received is promulgated in compliance
with orders:
CHATTANOOGA, TENN., November 24, 1863.
Major-General HOOKER:
The general commanding the department congratulates you most heartily
upon your glorious success to-day, and desires that you convey his warmest
thanks to the troops under your command for their valorous conduct.
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
By command of Major-General Hooker:
DANL. BUTTERFIELD, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, November 26, 1863--10 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
From the best information I have been able to obtain from the reconnaissance
of my own command and from those of others, and after giving the subject
my best reflection, I am already of the opinion that my column should move
to Graysville via Rossville. In suggesting this, it is with the impression
that the entire force of the enemy is falling back with all possible rapidity.
If I am not prevented from making this movement rapidly, I think there
is good reason to suppose that a portion of the enemy’s retreating column
may be intercepted. The general can judge whether or not my column should
be supported by that of General Palmer. Permit me to suggest that the troops
of General Sheridan, now at Mission Mills, be instructed to destroy the
railroad bridge across Chickamauga River.
HOOKER, Major-general.
-----
ROSSVILLE, November 26, 1863--11 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS:
Colonel Simmons, instead of sending the rations, sends a note to me,
ordering me to direct the commissary of Eleventh and Twelfth Corps to apply
at Chattanooga for commissary stores, and returns the guide sent down to
conduct the train. Perhaps you can comprehend this; I cannot. We shall
rely upon your having some one execute your orders to place 20,000 rations
and forage at Rossville as soon as possible. The guide will show them out.
Very respectfully,
DANL. BUTTERFIELD.
<ar55_119>
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, November 26, 1863--1 p.m.
Major-General HOOKER:
General Thomas approves your suggestions, and directs that you push
on to Graysville. General Palmer is ordered to report to you and support
you.
Very respectfully,
J. J. R[EYNOLDS].
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, November 26, 1863--1 p.m.
Major-General PALMER:
You will report to General Hooker, and co-operate with him in his movement
on Graysville. You will move with Baird's division and Johnson's, except
the brigade in the fort.
By command of General Thomas:
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
-----
NOVEMBER 26, 1863--1.45 p.m.
General GRANGER:
The general commanding directs me to say to you that it is General
Grant's order that you complete your preparations for the Knoxville expedition
as soon as possible.
WM. D. WHIPPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, Near Pea Vine Creek, Ga.,
November 26, 1863---10 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
We have reached a ridge said to be 2 ½ miles from Ringgold.
General Palmer led the column, and captured three pieces of artillery complete
near the ridge, where we now are, where we struck the rear of enemy's column.
His (Pallher's) advance is at Graysville. We are informed that it was the
rear of Hardee's command, composing the Left Wing of Bragg's army. If not
otherwise directed, I shall move on Ringgold at daylight. Subsequent movements
will depend upon what I learn there.
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Graysville, November 27, 1863--6.30
a.m.
General JOSEPH J. REYNOLDS:
With Johnson's division last night surprised General Stewart, took
three guns (Napoleon), two caissons, and many prisoners. Surprise complete.
I send prisoners and artillery in this morning. Here we took an additional
gun.
J. M. PALMER, Major-General,
<ar55_120>
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--9 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
Our column has arrived at this point. Some skirmishing now in front
in the gap through which the railroad passes to Dalton. We had skirmishing
(light) along the road this morning, and picked up some prisoners. The
town is pretty much cleaned out. The road was strewn with caissons, limbers,
ambulances, &c.; every evidence that the retreat is precipitate and
disorderly. Our provisions have not arrived, and as the men have been without
food for twenty-four hours I shall be compelled to return for supplies.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--10.45 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
GENERAL: In compliance with the instructions sent direct to General
Palmer, I have directed him to return to Chattanooga with his command.
I send with him about 200 prisoners, in addition to those sent in yesterday
and last evening.
I inclose herewith copy of a letter(*) captured here, written by staff
officer of General Hardee's to his wife, as it will inform the general
of rebel views of our recent operations.
Of the rations forwarded yesterday there was a great deal of flour,
which cannot be used in consequence of the absence of means to make bread.
The general will observe, from my instructions from General Grant (copy
forwarded last evening), that I am not permitted to advance unless I do
so without fighting a battle. This puts me in the condition of the boy
who was permitted to learn to swim provided he would not go near the water.
I have information, which I deem reliable, that the enemy are preparing
defenses to make a determined resistance at Tunnel Hill.
Under orders of General Grant, I have destroyed the bridge and 2 miles
of railroad yesterday, and am prepared to burn the depots, mills, and tanneries
before my departure.
Under my present orders, I am required to remain here until the 30th.
I request orders for my movements after that time.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--11.30 a.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
The enemy makes a stand determinedly in the position where the railroad
passes through the gap here. I have not yet been able to drive him from
it or to turn it. There is still skirmishing going on, but I have given
directions for the firing to cease.
My artillery has but now arrived. I shall try the effect of that as
soon as it can be got in position. None of Palmer's has been engaged. <ar55_121>
About one-half of my original command (Osterhaus' and one-third of Geary's)
have been engaged. My loss has been quite heavy. I shall not persist in
the attack unless it is to my advantage.
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--12.45 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
GENERAL: The enemy have been forced to abandon the position he held
on the ridge reported in my last.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--3 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
GENERAL: By direction of General Grant, I have sent a brigade in the
direction of Tunnel Hill. This force is sent not so much to fight as for
making captures of trains reported stalled and to convey the impression
of pursuit of the enemy.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, Ringgold, Ga., November 27,
1863--4 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
The summary of operations to-day thus far is: Our march here, driving
the enemy from his camp on Chickamauga and here, and finally driving him
from his position in the gap, heretofore reported. Our captures will be
probably 150 or 200 prisoners; the number cannot be accurately given, as
they were sent to the rear in different parties from different commands;
a store-house at the depot, with a large quantity of forage; four or five
caissons, partially filled with ammunition. General Palmer captured another
piece of artillery at Graysville, making four in all since we left Rossville,
coming this way. Nothing yet from the brigade sent toward Tunnel Hill.
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-general, Commanding.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
I have not been able heretofore to send a memorandum of the operations
of the 25th on Missionary Ridge.
As soon as the bridge over Chattanooga Creek could be completed we
advanced along the ridge in three columns, capturing one piece <ar55_122>
of artillery and several hundred prisoners from Stewart's division, opposing
us. The balance of the enemy that maintained any organization were driven
in and captured by General Johnson's division. We captured a large quantity
of flour at Rossville, 50 or 60 boxes artillery ammunition, large quantities
of small-arms, among them many new ones in boxes unopened. Our loss in
killed and wounded was slight, and did not compare with that inflicted
upon the enemy.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
RINGGOLD, GA., November 27, 1863--6 p.m.
Major-General REYNOLDS,
Chattanooga :
I cannot leave here until my wounded are all removed. If the ambulances
sent for arrive, I shall probably be able to get them off to-morrow. General
Palmer's command might be withdrawn from here.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, Ringgold, Ga., November 28,
1863--12 m.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga:
Two musicians, deserters from the enemy, came in this morning. They
state that Bragg's army was pretty fairly concentrated at Tunnel Hill,
about 8 miles from here, the object being to cover their trains, baggage,
&c. Their pickets were this side, within 3 or 4 miles from here. They
thought no stand would be made this side of Atlanta. They state that the
woods and ravines are full of deserters who were determined to leave the
enemy now, but did not like to come into our lines, and would try to get
into Kentucky and Tennessee (their homes) around our lines. The musicians
were from a Kentucky regiment, and brought in their instruments with them.
We have taken 70 barrels of flour, which is ordered to Chattanooga, to
be delivered to the chief commissary.
Our exact casualties, as reported, of yesterday, are:
| Command | Killed. | Wounded. | Missing. | Total |
| General.Geary | 22 | 179 | 4 | 205 |
| General.Osterhaus | 43 | 245 | 16 | 304 |
| Total | 65 | 424 | 20 | (a)509 |
Very respectfully,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
<ar55_123>
RINGGOLD, GA., November 28, 1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chattanooga:
GENERAL: Under the orders I now have (but just received from General
Grant), I shall need 50,000 rations, to be sent out as soon as possible.
From information I have that the enemy are re-enforcing their troops
at Tunnel Hill, said to be from Johnston's command, I have taken the liberty
of retaining General Palmer's command until I can satisfy myself with regard
to the accuracy of the report.
I inclose copy of General Grant's order.(*)
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
P. S.--Of the order to General Palmer I only learned by chance. I have
to request that all orders affecting my command may be sent through me.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, November 29, 1863--4 p.m.
Major-General PALMER:
The general commanding department directs that your troops resume their
camps at Chattanooga. You will throw out a proper picket on our old front
line. Starkweather's brigade has just started on an expedition on the top
of Lookout Mountain.
Very respectfully,
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, Chief of Staff.
From railroad crossing on Citico Creek to the Chimneys on Chattanooga
Creek.
-----
HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH AND TWELFTH CORPS, Ringgold, Ga., November 30,
1863.
Major-General REYNOLDS, Chief of Staff, Chattanooga :
Two contrabands, just arrived from Dalton, report the main force of
the enemy gone beyond Dalton, about 300 men at Tunnel Hill, and the enemy's
cavalry this side. The rations requested to be sent out yesterday morning
have not arrived. I am without provisions for one brigade, and shall be
compelled to return for them. The non-arrival of the train will, I now
fear, compel me to leave some machinery, which I hoped to take back with
me in the emptied wagons.
Very respectfully, &c.,
JOSEPH HOOKER, Major-General, Commanding.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, November 30,
1863--9 a.m.
Maj. Gen. JOSEPH HOOKER:
GENERAL: The general commanding department directs that you leave Ringgold
with the forces under your command, starting <ar55_124> shortly after
the moon rises to-night, and move toward Chattanooga.
The troops of the Twelfth Corps and those of the Fourth Corps will
resume their original positions west of Lookout Mountain and on the road
to Bridgeport.
Osterhaus' division will be halted at a convenient point between Chattanooga
and Rossville, and the commanding officer will report to General Grant
for instructions. Execute the orders received from General Grant in reference
to the destruction of property at Ringgold. It is reported, on what seems
good authority, that some of our dead lie unburied on the battle-field
of Chickamauga. Order a detail from the command of General Cruft, or the
whole command if necessary, to return via Chickamauga and bury them.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. J. REYNOLDS, Major-General, and Chief of Staff.
-----
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Chattanooga, January 15,
1864.
GENERAL: I have the honor to report the operations of my command from
December 1 to 31, 1863, as follows:
December 1, General Hooker returned to Chattanooga from Ringgold with
Geary's division, of the Twelfth Corps, and Osterhaus' division, of the
Fifteenth Corps. Cruft's two brigades, of the First Division, Fourth Corps,
were ordered to proceed to Chickamauga battle-field and bury such of our
dead as still remained unburied by the rebels. This duty finished, they
were to return to their former positions on the Nashville and Chattanooga
Railroad, between Whiteside's and Bridgeport. General Hooker, on evacuating
Ringgold, destroyed the railroad depot and other buildings, as well as
such captured property as could not be removed. General Granger's corps
marched to the relief of Knoxville, acting in connection with General Sherman's
command, which was also moving toward that place. Third Brigade, First
Division of Cavalry, Colonel Watkins, of the Sixth Kentucky, commanding,
was stationed at Rossville, with an infantry support of two regiments,
to guard our south front. General Elliott, with the First Cavalry Division,
was ordered to proceed from his position, in the vicinity of Sparta, to
Kingston, East Tennessee. He received later instructions, to the effect
that in case he did not reach that place in time to participate in the
pursuit of Longstreet, he was to establish his headquarters at Athens,
and throw out posts as far as possible to the southeast to observe the
movements of the enemy in that direction.
Information given by deserters from the enemy places the rebel army
in our front as follows: Cleburne's division is at Tunnel Hill, and the
balance of the army is stationed between there and Dalton. They state that
the troops are very much demoralized, the men being very much scattered
from their regiments, and desertions are numerous. Buckner's corps was
not in the battles in front of Chattanooga, it having gone to the assistance
of Longstreet seven or eight days previous.
December 3, Col. George P. Buell, Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers,
commanding Pioneer Brigade, commenced constructing a double-track wagon
road over the nose of Lookout Mountain.
December 13, General Gillem reports from Nashville that he had <ar55_125>
just returned to that place from the Tennessee River. The work on the Northwestern
railroad was progressing. Guerrillas between the Cumberland and Duck Rivers
broken up. Perkins and Ray were disposed of, the former having been killed
and the latter captured. Refugees and conscripts from the south side of
the river report that Forrest and Pillow are at Jackson, West Tennessee,
with about 4,000 men, 1,000 of whom are well mounted and organized.
December 15, a small party of rebels, under Maj. Joe Fontaine, Roddey's
adjutant, was captured by General Dodge near Pulaski. They had been on
a reconnaissance along the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad and the Nashville
and Decatur Railroad. Measures were immediately taken to guard against
an attack on either railroad.
On the 17th, Howard's corps returned to Chattanooga from Knoxville;
also Davis' division, of the Fourteenth Corps. The latter was posted along
Spring Creek, south of Missionary Ridge, and the former returned to its
position in Lookout Valley.
Through scouts we learn that the enemy is strengthening his position
between Tunnel Hill and Dalton; also at Resaca, near the Coosa River, and
at Allatoona Mountains, the last named place being a formidable position.
Information from various sources leads to the belief that Hardee is making
the Oostenaula River his front, defended by rifle-pits and fortifications;
also the Etowah River. All deserters and scouts agree in their statements
that the rebels in our front are disheartened and demoralized. President
Lincoln's amnesty proclamation was having a good effect in encouraging
desertions, and movements have been taken to circulate it quite extensively
within the enemy's lines. The cavalry command, under General Elliott, having
been detained by General Foster for duty in his department, Col. Eli Long,
Fourth Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade, Second Division Cavalry,
was stationed at Calhoun, on the Hiwassee River, for the purpose of watching
the movements of the enemy in that vicinity. The balance of the Second
Division, under command of General Crook, was ordered by General Grant,
on the 20th, to move from Huntsville, where it then was, to Prospect, with
a view to operate against Forrest. General W. S. Smith, chief of cavalry
of the Military Division of the Mississippi, with the Third, Fifth, and
Seventh Kentucky, Second and Fourth Tennessee, and Eighth Iowa Cavalry
Regiments, started for Savannah on the 20th, to cross the Tennessee, and
operate on the flank and rear of Forrest and drive him from West Tennessee.
The operations of the cavalry have been quite brilliant during the month.
Col. L. D. Watkins, commanding Third Brigade, First Division, from his
position at Rossville: has made several successful raids into the enemy's
lines. On the 5th, a reconnaissance sent by him proceeded as far as Ringgold
without finding any signs of the enemy, except stragglers and deserters.
Again on the 14th, with detachments of the Fourth and Sixth Kentucky Cavalry,
numbering about 250 men, he made a reconnaissance toward La Fayette, surprised
that town, capturing a colonel of the Georgia Home Guards, 6 officers of
the rebel signal corps, and about 38 horses and mules; our loss, none.
On the 23d he sent out a scout of 150 men from Fourth and Sixth Kentucky
Regiments, under command of Major Welling, of the Fourth Kentucky, which
proceeded as far as La Fayette, capturing at that place 1 commissioned
officer, 16 non-commissioned and privates. 10 citizens (said to be violent
rebels), and 38 horses and mules. <ar55_126>
On the 22d, a party of Wheeler's cavalry, numbering about 75 men, attacked
a small party of the Fourth Michigan Cavalry, stationed at Cleveland. Our
loss was 1 or 2 captured, some property lost, consisting of overcoats,
saddles, &c., but the enemy were finally driven off.
On the 23d, Geary's division, of the Twelfth Corps, left their camp
at Lookout Valley to take up a position along the Nashville and Chattanooga
Railroad, one brigade to be stationed at Bridgeport and the other at Stevenson.
On the 28th, Colonel Bernard Laiboldt, Second Missouri Infantry, in
charge of a train and escort, principally of convalescents belonging to
the Fourth Corps, proceeding from Chattanooga to Knoxville, was attacked
by a force of Wheeler's cavalry, numbering between 1,200 and 1,500, as
he was crossing the Hiwassee River at Charleston. He immediately formed
his guard in line of battle on the south side of the river, succeeded in
crossing all his train in safety, and then charged the astonished rebels
and drove them in confusion. He then called upon Col. Eli Long for cavalry
co-operation, who sent all the force he then had in camp, numbering 150
men. With this small force Colonel Long charged the enemy with sabers and
drove him 5 miles, capturing 130 prisoners, including 5 commissioned officers.
Our loss was 2 killed and 15 wounded. The enemy left his dead and wounded,
as well as quite a number of small-arms, &c., upon the field. Both
Colonels Laiboldt and Long are entitled to great credit for the manner
in which they repelled this attack. I earnestly recommend them to favorable
consideration for promotion; Colonel Laiboldt, for his executive ability
and efficiency as a brigade commander of the Second Division, Twentieth
Army Corps; Col. Eli Long, for the valuable service he rendered during
the recent battles in front of Chattanooga and for many instances of previous
good conduct.
Provost-Marshal-General Wiles reports that 1,080 deserters from the
enemy have come into the lines of this army between the 19th of October
and December 31.
Twenty regiments had reorganized as veteran volunteers on the 1st of
January, 1864, as follows:
Command Brigade Division Army Corps
29th Pennsylvania Infantry 2 2 12
28th Pennsylvania Infantry 1 2 12
111th Pennsylvania Infantry 2 2 12
147th Pennsylvania Infantry 1 2 12
26th Battery, Pennsylvania Artillery 1 3 4
66th Ohio Infantry 1 2 12
29th Ohio Infantry 1 2 12
14th Ohio Infantry 3 3 14
38th Ohio Infantry 3 3 14
6th Ohio Light Battery 2 3 4
17th Ohio Infantry 1 3 14
3d Wisconsin Infantry 3 1 12
35th Indiana Infantry 2 1 4
9th Indiana Infantry 3 1 4
29th Indiana Infantry 1 1 4
38th Indiana Infantry 1 1 14
60th New York Infantry 3 2 12
78th New York Infantry 3 2 12
102 New York Infantry 3 2 12
9th Michigan Infantry (a) 14
16th Illinois Infantry 1 2 14
<ar55_127>
The above regiments had left their divisions on the 1st of January,
1864; a great many others were preparing to reorganize as veterans.
I have the honor to annex hereto(*) the official report of the operations
of the Second Brigade, Second Division Cavalry, Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio
Cavalry, commanding; also that of Col. Bernard Laiboldt, Second Missouri,
concerning the repulse of Wheeler's cavalry at Charleston, and copies of
the official reports of the cavalry force under General Elliott at the
engagement at Mossy Creek, E. Tenn.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General, U.S. Vols., Commanding.
Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U.S. Army.
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