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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the war
+of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Eleven days in the militia during the war of the rebellion
+       A journal of the 'Emergency' campaign of 1862
+
+Author: A Militiaman
+
+Release Date: April 12, 2010 [EBook #31969]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Jeannie Howse and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+    ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA
+
+    DURING THE
+
+    WAR OF THE REBELLION;
+
+    BEING
+
+    A JOURNAL OF THE "EMERGENCY" CAMPAIGN
+    OF 1862.
+
+    BY A MILITIAMAN.
+
+    [Illustration]
+
+    COLLINS, PRINTER, PHILADELPHIA.
+    1883.
+
+
+
+
+    Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1883, by
+    THE COLLINS PRINTING HOUSE,
+    in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION.
+
+
+Twenty years have passed away since a band of hastily-gathered
+minute-men left their homes to defend the soil of Pennsylvania from
+the first threatened invasion of the State by the rebel army under
+General R.E. Lee. Viewed through the lapse of this long period,
+crowded as it has been with so many momentous events in the life of
+the nation, the incidents of that brief and comparatively unimportant
+campaign begin, nevertheless, from their increasing remoteness, to
+take upon themselves a degree of historic interest. In respect to both
+their significance and their adventure, they greatly exceed the
+occurrences which attended the march of the celebrated Advance Light
+Brigade to the defence of Philadelphia in the war of 1812-14, in which
+latter body of citizen soldiery the county of Berks had the honor to
+be liberally represented.
+
+With many of the participants in the movements of September, 1862,
+that minor undertaking comprises the sum total of their personal
+experience of military service during the entire ordeal of our
+country's conflict. To them, therefore, the memories of that period of
+excitement and alarm are invested with a peculiar interest--a
+sentiment which must to a degree continue to be shared by their
+descendants. In the belief that a narration of its details may serve
+to rekindle in the breasts of his surviving companions something of
+the enthusiasm which they originally inspired, the writer has been
+encouraged, after the lapse of nearly a generation, to undertake the
+pleasing and congenial task.
+
+Fidelity to fact is at the least claimed for the present performance,
+which, devoid as it is of literary pretensions, may nevertheless be
+deemed not unworthy of an humble place among the contributions to the
+history of a stirring epoch in the annals of our good old Commonwealth
+at the trying period of the nation's struggle. The basis of the
+narrative is a personal journal of the service to which it refers,
+kept at the time it transpired, the entries in which were dictated by
+the feelings and impressions of the moment. These impressions, it is
+to be remembered, were those of a simple civilian--one who felt little
+interest in the details of military service apart from the cause in
+which it is undertaken. Yet the relation may, from this very fact,
+commend itself the more to the friendly regard of his comrades, most
+of whom were at that period equally inexperienced in the proper
+discipline of the soldier. On the other hand, should it attract the
+notice of the veteran, it will doubtless serve to amuse him by
+comparison with his own experience amidst the greater perils of
+"grim-visaged war," which he is even yet so pardonably fond of
+recounting.
+
+From what has been already advanced, it will be unnecessary to place
+any special emphasis upon the disclaimer which it nevertheless remains
+to make, that any possible object of applause is sought to be
+associated with the expedition which it is purposed to record. Very
+distinctly is the impression made at the time in the mind of the
+writer, preserved to the present, that in promptly proceeding to the
+scene of danger, the Pennsylvania militia were confronted with a more
+urgent incentive than that which animated the legions of brave men who
+had already gone forth to face the enemy on the distant battle-fields
+of the South. Our homes were threatened--the horrors of desolating war
+seemed likely to be brought to our very doors. The instinct of
+self-preservation effectually appealed to even the most unpatriotic
+hearts. No other honorable alternative was left but to go out to meet
+the hostile invader. Alarms often repeated, by night and by day,
+suggested the imminence of the danger. Others, with a more deliberate
+devotion to their country's cause, had volunteered for long periods of
+service. To fail to rally for the protection of our own firesides,
+with all their consecrated associations, would have been unworthy of
+the very lowest requirements of patriotism. The most abiding sentiment
+of those who were called to no severer military duty than the militia
+campaign of 1862, or that of the following year, must always be a
+heartfelt appreciation of, and gratitude for, the services of the
+brave veterans of the War of the Rebellion, to whose heroic deeds we
+are indebted for the preservation of our liberties, and the blessings
+of a reunited country.
+
+But, justice to the minute-men of 1862 requires it to be said that,
+although in the light of subsequent events, the achievements of their
+brief campaign seem to sink into such comparative insignificance--so
+marked indeed that the very narration of them appears to savor more of
+humor than of valor--there were among their number multitudes who were
+animated by as warm a patriotism as that which burned in the breasts
+of their gallant comrades then already at the front--who were as ready
+as they to lay down their lives in defence of the dearest interests of
+freemen, and who, had the occasion presented itself, would have done
+equal honor to their country's service. It is not to be forgotten,
+moreover, that at the crisis when they marched to the rescue of the
+State, it could not be foreseen what was to be the issue of their
+mission, or how great the sacrifice which they might be called upon to
+make. It was cause for lasting gratification with them that their very
+presence upon the borders at the juncture when they appeared, and in
+the numbers in which they came, greatly contributed to encourage their
+brethren who were then passing through the heat and fire of the
+conflict, as well as to deter the progress of the invading foe. Raw
+and undisciplined as they undoubtedly were, who can now say that their
+prompt rendezvous at the centre of military operations did not
+signally aid the successful efforts of the army to turn backward the
+march of the enemy after the terrific shock which he received on the
+memorable field of Antietam?
+
+                                                             L.R.
+
+  READING, September, 1882.
+
+
+
+
+ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA.
+
+
+After the reverses to our arms at the disastrous battles of the Second
+Bull Run and Centreville, in the latter part of August, 1862, and the
+retrograde movements of the Union forces in Virginia in consequence,
+the purpose of the enemy to follow up his advantage by endeavoring to
+take the Capital, invade the Middle States, and thus strike terror
+into the hearts of the people of the North, became immediately
+apparent. In the early part of September, war meetings were being held
+in Pennsylvania to raise the quota of the State in lieu of the draft
+then impending, in pursuance of the requisition of the President of
+the United States for three hundred thousand men. The Reserves had
+been called away to succor the hard-pressed army of McClellan, and the
+borders were left wholly unprotected at the inviting season of
+harvest. As a measure of precaution against the impending danger,
+Governor Curtin on the 4th of September issued a proclamation
+recommending the immediate formation of volunteer companies
+throughout the State, in conformity with existing militia laws, for
+home defence, and suggesting the closing of all places of business at
+3 o'clock P.M. daily, in order to afford due opportunity for drill and
+preparation. On the next day, Mayor David McKnight of Reading, who was
+acting in that capacity in the place of Mayor Joel B. Wanner, then in
+the field as Major of the 128th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers,
+also issued a manifesto, in pursuance of the spirit of the Governor's
+proclamation, requiring the assemblage of the citizens at certain
+places designated within their respective wards, for the organization
+of companies, and also the holding of daily drills from 4 to 6 P.M.
+
+On the 5th, the rebel army under General Lee, comprising a force
+estimated at eighty thousand infantry, eight thousand cavalry, and one
+hundred and fifty pieces of artillery, crossed the Potomac at or near
+the Point of Rocks, and entered Frederick. Among its division
+commanders were Magruder, Walker, Anderson, A.P. Hill, Stuart,
+Longstreet, Ewell, and Stonewall Jackson. With the occupation of
+Maryland, matters reached an alarming crisis, and the imminent danger
+to Pennsylvania became at once evident. The boldness and celerity of
+the enemy's movements suggested the necessity for prompt action on the
+part of the State authorities. On the 10th of September, the
+Governor, acting under the direction of the President of the United
+States, issued another proclamation, as Commander-in-Chief of the
+militia, designated as General Order No. 35, calling on all the
+able-bodied men of the State to organize for its defence, and be ready
+to march to Harrisburg at an hour's notice, subject to his order. The
+companies were directed to be filled in accordance with the army
+standards of the United States, and as it was stated that the call
+might be sudden, the officers and men were required to provide
+themselves with the best arms they could procure, with at least sixty
+rounds of suitable ammunition, good stout clothing, uniform or
+otherwise; boots, blankets, and haversacks. The order further
+stipulated that the organizations would be held in service for such
+time only as the pressing emergency for the State defence might
+continue.
+
+On the morning of the 11th, the rebel cavalry under Stuart entered
+Hagerstown, the southern terminus of the Cumberland Valley Railroad,
+six miles from the Pennsylvania line, the main body being about
+two-and-a-half miles behind, at Funkstown. The army of McClellan had
+in the meantime advanced to Poolesville. As soon as this intelligence
+reached Harrisburg, the Governor at 4 o'clock on the afternoon of that
+day issued General Order No. 36, calling into immediate service fifty
+thousand of the freemen of Pennsylvania, under the terms of the
+proclamation of the previous day, to repel the rebel invasion.
+
+Immediately after the publication of the proclamation of Wednesday,
+September 10th, the work of forming militia companies in Reading was
+begun in earnest, the efforts that had been previously made in that
+direction not having been attended with much practical result. In the
+evening, the court-house bell was rung, and the building was rapidly
+filled. Mayor McKnight presided over the meeting. Dispatches were read
+indicating the approach of the enemy to the borders, and resolutions
+were adopted to organize companies forthwith in each of the wards.
+Many went directly from the meeting to the different places of
+rendezvous, and enrolled themselves for the State defence. There was
+not at the time a single full military company in Reading, all the
+troops enlisted for stated terms of service having already gone to the
+front. The night was one of much activity and excitement. Drilling was
+done in Penn Square to the inspiring accompaniment of fife and drum,
+which gave the town a decidedly warlike appearance. This exercise was
+continued daily and nightly until the militia had marched, and at no
+period during the entire war did the military enthusiasm of the people
+reach a greater height.
+
+In the instruction of the troops, the manual of arms had to be
+omitted, for there were no guns. Officers had been hastily selected,
+and the commands in most cases given to experienced soldiers, whose
+services were in sudden and great demand. The fidelity of the men was
+accepted without any suggestion of the test of an oath. The companies
+recruited rapidly, and were not long in filling up to the standard.
+Their evolutions, which were conducted to a large extent in the open
+square, under the cover of darkness, were at times edifying to
+witness. As the battalions marched with sturdy tread up and down on
+either side of the central market-houses, collisions would now and
+then derange the symmetry of the forces. Frequent resort to unmilitary
+language on the part of the commanders was necessary to bring up the
+laggard platoons, and movements were habitually executed for which no
+precedent could have been found in either Scott or Hardee. But it was
+patriotism and not tactics that was uppermost in the minds of all, and
+trifling imperfections of military discipline were, for the moment at
+least, sunk out of sight in the sense of common danger.
+
+Arms of all kinds were in urgent demand. Rifles and shot-guns, single
+and double-barreled, old and new; pistols of all designs, long and
+short, ancient and modern, together with some other unclassified
+implements of war, were brought out from their hiding-places, hastily
+cleaned and put in working order. Some of the men, when equipped for
+the march, were walking armories of miscellaneous weapons. The
+hardware stores were invaded in search of powder, shot, and ball. A
+gum blanket, with which in most cases an army blanket, or in default
+thereof, a pair of ordinary bed blankets, were rolled up; a haversack
+of canvas or oil-cloth, hastily put together at the saddler's, a tin
+cup, knife and fork and spoon, made up the rest of the equipment.
+
+But it was the composition of the forces which lent to them their
+chief dignity and formed their most notable feature. There was no
+volunteering by proxy. No one at all able to contemplate military
+service thought of stopping to suggest the duty of his neighbor. Each
+felt the personal application of the call, and even to doubt one's
+fitness for duty was to expose himself to suspicion. All claims of
+business, public or private responsibilities, or professional or
+official duty had to yield to the necessities of the hour. Every
+interest was alike threatened, and no balancing of individual excuses
+could for a moment be tolerated. The women nobly seconded the appeal
+to arms, and assisted in the work of preparation. Personal and social
+distinctions were levelled, and in response to roll-call there
+appeared the lawyer, the physician, the preacher, the magistrate, the
+banker, the merchant, the manufacturer, and the railway official in
+his multifarious forms, side by side with the humbler civilian--all
+animated with patriotic zeal in the common cause.
+
+Mayor McKnight, who subsequently himself joined a company named in his
+honor and commanded by Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, on the 11th sent
+William M. Baird, Esq., to Harrisburg to keep the home authorities
+informed as to the arrangements for the calling out and reception of
+the Reading militia. On the evening of the 12th, Mr. Baird telegraphed
+that the companies should hold themselves in readiness to march, and a
+little later communicated an order from headquarters to Captain
+Franklin S. Bickley, who was in charge of the first company organized,
+and the only one then ready, for his command to leave for Harrisburg
+the next morning by the first train.
+
+This company had its rendezvous in the second story of the building at
+the southwest corner of Fifth and Washington streets. Its roll
+originally contained 94 names, but the number of men who actually
+marched was but 64. Sergeant William H. Strickland was left behind to
+recruit the company up to the standard, and afterwards brought a few
+additional men to Chambersburg. The commanding officers were all of
+them men of some experience in military affairs, and proved themselves
+worthy of their positions. Captain Bickley had been a commissioned
+officer in the Pennsylvania Reserves; First Lieutenant Lewis H.
+Wunder was a veteran of the Mexican War; and Second Lieutenant Charles
+H. Richards, though never in actual service, had had a long connection
+with the militia before the war. In the ranks of the company were a
+few old soldiers, who were generally to be recognized by the coolness
+of their bearing.
+
+At this point it will be appropriate to give the names of the seven
+companies which were raised in Reading, or its immediate vicinity, and
+left in response to the Governor's call, with the dates of marching
+and their regimental assignments. Several other companies were in
+course of organization in the city and county, but the emergency had
+passed before they were ready to respond to the call:--
+
+Fifth Ward Guards, Captain F.S. Bickley, 70 men, Company G, 2d
+Regiment; September 13.
+
+Nicolls Guards, Captain Charles H. Hunter, 104 men, Company E, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.
+
+McKnight Guards, Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, 95 men, Company I, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.
+
+Liberty Fire Zouaves, Captain William Geiger, 70 men, Company G, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+M'Lean Guards, Captain Samuel Harner, 45 men, Company H, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+Halleck Infantry, Captain Frederick S. Boas, 92 men, Company I, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+Berks County Cavalry, Captain Samuel L. Young, 67 men, Independent;
+September 17.
+
+
+At a meeting of Captain Bickley's Company, held on the evening of the
+12th, the marching order was read, and it was directed that the
+company meet at the armory at 10 o'clock the next morning in readiness
+to leave. Its subsequent movements during the campaign are detailed in
+the journal which follows, and to which what has already preceded is
+but a necessary preliminary.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+_Saturday, September 13._ According to orders, the company met at the
+rendezvous at 10 o'clock A.M. equipped for the march. The morning had
+been busily occupied in getting ready for the departure. The
+leave-taking with our friends had not been unmingled with feelings of
+solemnity, in view of the possibility that we might never see them
+again. The day was fine, and a large crowd of people congregated in
+the streets to see us off. On Penn Square, in front of the Provost
+Marshal's office, at the old Bell mansion, the pavement was blocked,
+as it had been for several days past, with applicants for exemption
+from the draft. The medical examinations were then in progress. We
+marched to the lower depot, headed by a band, and accompanied by the
+crowd. The company itself was wholly unprovided with music of any
+sort. Left by the regular morning passenger train for Harrisburg. In
+another car there was also a militia company from Pottsville,
+commanded by Captain David A. Smith, which had left home the same
+morning. All the men were in good spirits. Some amusement was afforded
+by a comparison of our accoutrements. The majority of the company were
+unarmed, and the only insignia of a regular military organization were
+the swords and sashes of the officers. The news by the morning papers
+still continued exciting. The army was said to be preparing to engage
+the rebels in Maryland, as no time was to be lost in checking their
+advance.
+
+The trip was without incident. Arriving at Harrisburg at 1-½ P.M., we
+were formed and marched to the State Capitol grounds. A scene of great
+activity was here presented. The people seemed everywhere to be
+flocking to arms. The Governor and the Adjutant-General were
+personally superintending the organization of the militia. Secretary
+Slifer and Colonel A.K. McClure were also actively engaged in the same
+work. We were much relieved to find that we were to be furnished with
+arms and equipments by the State, as our force was far from effective
+in its present shape. At the State Arsenal, on the Capitol grounds, we
+were supplied with Springfield muskets, knapsacks, haversacks, and
+canteens. Delivered up our old guns to be returned home. The muskets
+and bayonets, on first introduction, were handled with some curiosity.
+As there were no scabbards provided for the latter, the bayonets had
+to be carried fixed to the pieces. Of ammunition there was none on
+hand at present, but it was stated that a supply would be sent after
+us. Nothing was said about swearing us into service. The day was
+likely to be consumed in regimental organization, and it was probable
+we should not get off before the morrow. Some of our men had expected
+to meet the rebels before night. Fortunately for us, we still had some
+eighty miles the advantage of them.
+
+The first charge was upon our bags of provisions. My haversack had
+been bountifully stocked by my good landlady at home, Mrs. B., whose
+liberality as a provider and kindness of heart will always be held in
+grateful remembrance by her guests. The foresight of the Governor in
+mentioning in his proclamation the subject of rations, was generally
+commended, as little or nothing eatable seemed to be obtainable in
+this town since its occupation as a militia camp.
+
+Our company was assigned quarters on the east side of the Capitol
+grounds, upon the lawn in the rear of the public buildings. Passed
+the afternoon in watching the arrival of several additional companies,
+strolling around the Park, and looking through the Capitol buildings.
+Several of us climbed the stairway to the dome. Another charge on the
+haversacks about 5 P.M. Began to wonder where or how we were to pass
+the night. Our efficient Quartermaster, L.M.; at length solved the
+problem. He procured a lot of shelter tents, which were distributed,
+and the work of setting them up commenced. A little straw was brought
+from somewhere and put in for a bottom. Took a stroll through the town
+in the evening with Messrs. G., E., S., and others, visiting the
+railroad depots, which were just then scenes of particular activity.
+Stopped on the way at a lager beer saloon, which powerfully recalled
+home associations. Returned to the grounds and answered to roll-call
+about 10 P.M. Crawled into a tent with Dr. B. and J.R.K. A regiment or
+two was encamped around us. No military rules were as yet promulgated,
+and it was very evident that none were to be observed that night.
+Chaos reigned supreme. Singing, speech-making, and practical jokes of
+all kinds filled in the hours usually devoted to sleep, while the
+arrival of fresh companies, from time to time, appeared to stimulate
+the orgies as the night advanced. Slept a couple of hours, and until 2
+A.M., when the general discomforts of the situation moved me to seek
+more desirable quarters. Reconnoitred the outskirts of the camp, and
+found a large covered coach just outside the grounds, which I got
+into, and having wrapped myself in my blanket, slept tolerably for
+several hours. The night was quite cool, and these new accommodations
+proved comfortable only by comparison. Got out at daylight, washed my
+face at a pump, answered to roll-call, and then consulted my bag of
+provisions. This first night's experience in "camp" suggests how few
+and simple are the wants of man in a military state.
+
+
+_Sunday, September 14._ Went down town with Dr. B. to look after
+something to replenish our depleted commissary stores. The Doctor was
+acquainted with a family named Feger, in Walnut Street, near the
+river, whose son was a student of medicine, and suggested a call. We
+accordingly visited them, and were kindly provided with a good meal
+and a quantity of cigars. The young student conducted us to a bakery,
+where we laid in a supply of crackers. Returned to camp. Our company
+had been attached to the Second Regiment of Militia, as Company "G."
+The Colonel was John L. Wright, of Columbia. There were ten companies,
+mostly full, from Columbia, West Chester, Reading, Pottsville, and
+Lancaster City and County. The First Regiment, commanded by Colonel
+Henry McCormick, and containing companies from Harrisburg,
+Philadelphia, and Chester and Lebanon counties, had already been sent
+off down the Cumberland Valley Railroad to Chambersburg. At 11 o'clock
+we received marching orders for the same place, and about 1-½ P.M. the
+regiment proceeded out to near Camp Curtin and got aboard a train of
+freight cars, which had been provided with seats for the
+transportation of troops. A long delay, with the explanation of which
+we were not furnished, ensued; but about 3 the train started. A halt
+of an hour or more was made in town. A tremendous and enthusiastic
+crowd was out to see us off. Moved over the Long Bridge and stopped
+another half hour west of the Susquehanna. Chambersburg, our
+destination, was fifty-two miles distant. Passed successively through
+Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and Shippensburg, at each of which places
+short stops were made. Were struck with the great natural beauty of
+the Cumberland Valley region. Crowds of people came out to the
+stations to meet us, and black and white, old and young, all joined in
+the heartiest demonstrations of welcome. Were also greeted from the
+houses and roadsides all along the line by people waving their
+handkerchiefs and swinging their hats. At Mechanicsburg a whole girls'
+school was out to see us. This was a specially engaging sight to some
+of our number, who thought that that village would be a good place to
+camp. At Carlisle I met Mr. R.S., whom I knew. The _elite_ of the town
+were at the station, and S. pointed out to me the leading beauties of
+the place--I mean the ladies. Soldiers of a day, we already began, in
+the midst of these inspiring scenes, to feel like real veterans.
+Between stops the men beguiled the time singing, jesting, smoking,
+etc., and every one was in the best possible humor. Private T.H.,
+among the rest, favored the company with a curious song in
+Pennsylvania Dutch called "Babbel Maul," which performance his
+delighted auditors compelled him frequently to repeat. It was
+generally agreed that the most desirable way of marching was by
+railroad. Dusk deepened into night, and at about 9 o'clock
+Chambersburg was reached. Proceeded a mile or two below the town, when
+the train halted in a wood brightly illuminated with camp-fires, and
+resonant with the cheers of soldiers. Disembarked and went into camp.
+Rigged the tents, built fires, mounted the large cooking kettles with
+which we had been furnished at Harrisburg, boiled coffee and got our
+supper--"grub" is the military term for it. No news of any account
+from Maryland. My two comrades of the night before and myself
+constructed a sort of crib with fence rails put up between adjoining
+trees, and, after a smoke, laid ourselves up in it to sleep. The
+arrangement worked well, and we slept comfortably in this rustic
+bedstead until 5 A.M.
+
+
+_Monday, September 15._ After roll-call wrote letters home, and
+carried some water for the cook. The latter, W.P.D., is a character in
+his way, and deserves mention. Under a rough exterior he carries a
+kindly heart. In his particular sphere, the importance of which we all
+recognize, he is somewhat of an autocrat. In the distribution of the
+eatables he is governed by the strictest principles of equity, and
+shows no favoritism. He is very often justly ruffled when his
+functions are usurped, or undue dictation is attempted on the part of
+those bearing higher official authority. He is specially incensed at
+times when stratagems are employed by the men to steal the sugar, over
+which latter article he finds it necessary to maintain a vigilant
+guard. We are now down to regular army fare, our bill consisting of
+rations of bread, meat, coffee, and that well-known item of camp
+necessaries called "hard tack," which is a host in itself, being made
+to go a great way by reason of the degree of mastication which it
+requires. There can be no complaint as to the strength of the coffee,
+since there is no milk to dilute it, but the color of the sugar might
+afford ground of exception on the part of the over-fastidious. Soups
+of rice, meat-bones, and occasionally poultry, when there happen to
+be any hen-roosts in close proximity, make a substantial dinner.
+Soldiers' appetites are uniformly good, and little defects in the
+system of cookery are not ordinarily closely criticised. Tobacco, in
+all its forms, seems indispensable, by reason of the moral courage
+with which it is supposed to inspire alike the soldier and the
+civilian. This article is laid in by the men whenever and as often as
+occasion presents. In our great country it has all sections for its
+own. It is certain that the war is going to give an immense permanent
+stimulus to the consumption of this standard narcotic. Alcoholic
+beverages also are stored away in flasks against cases of emergency,
+which, in military affairs, as is well known, are of constant
+occurrence.
+
+During the morning we were gratified with the first sight of the
+enemy's paraphernalia, consisting of a train of captured baggage
+wagons, taken from Longstreet, and which were being driven in the
+direction of Harrisburg, whither, it is said, some hundred or more of
+prisoners from the same corps are being conducted. With a view of the
+latter we were not rewarded. The curiosity of the men to see a live
+rebel--in a _captured_ condition--is very great. The wagons were
+guided by contra bands, who did not, however, look as if they belonged
+to the numerous class called "intelligent," who figure so largely as
+news-bearers in the army dispatches. The train, as well as the
+prisoners, was under the escort of the Anderson Cavalry, which was
+doing scout duty between the lines. A slight change in the position of
+our quarters was ordered during the day, and tents were struck about 4
+P.M. and the company marched about two miles further to the south,
+halting in a large stubble field west of the railroad, in a position
+which had been dignified by the title of "Camp McClure." Had an attack
+of my old adversary, the sick-headache, and was soon forced to
+surrender. Was very kindly waited upon by several of the men,
+especially P.E. and his brother D., who is a candidate at home for
+District Attorney, but not on that account any the less unselfish in
+his friendly offices on the present occasion. The former made me some
+tea from pennyroyal, gathered upon the ground, which shortly operated
+as an emetic. On a bed of blankets and straw, arranged by sympathetic
+hands, with my knapsack for a pillow, and the open vault of heaven for
+a canopy, I soon became, as is usual with sufferers from this severe
+complaint, utterly indifferent to surroundings. A good night's rest
+brought a happy relief.
+
+
+_Tuesday, September 16._ Part of the morning was devoted to foraging
+at the neighboring farmhouses, but little or nothing could be
+procured, the ground having already been pretty well covered by
+advance parties. Apples, however, were abundant, as there were many
+fine orchards in this vicinity. Was detailed to attend Dr. S., the
+Company Surgeon, who was sick, and had taken refuge in an adjoining
+wood, into which our quarters were presently moved. Here, under the
+direction of the Quartermaster, a sort of wigwam was constructed,
+built of fence-rails and cornstalks, and floored with straw. It was
+long enough to accommodate the entire company, and formed a very tight
+and really comfortable tenement. The Conococheague Creek ran within a
+few hundred yards of the camp, and the men had several good baths in
+it. Regiments were continually arriving from the railroad, and the
+shrieks of the steam-whistles, the blasts of bugles, clatter of drums,
+and the cheering of the troops enlivened the day. Among the accessions
+were the Blue Reserves, of Philadelphia, a uniformed organization,
+which made a handsome appearance. Before night there were said to be
+ten thousand men on the ground. A large force of militia was evidently
+intended to be concentrated at this point. Met a number of
+acquaintances among the new arrivals. Had several squad and company
+drills, and expected, from the arrangements we observed in progress,
+to remain some time in this situation. While out for exercise we could
+hear the noise of distant artillery proceeding from the direction of
+Sharpsburg and Harper's Ferry. The anxiety increased to hear
+something from the army. Occasionally a newspaper, a day or two out of
+date, was brought in from the railroad, and its contents eagerly
+devoured. It was said that Hagerstown had been abandoned by the
+rebels, and that telegraph and railroad communication had been
+re-established with that point. Reports circulated, which were
+afterwards verified, that fighting had commenced between the corps of
+Generals Hooker and Reno and the rebels, and that General Reno had
+been killed. When the camp-fires were lighted, after nightfall, the
+woods resounded with martial music, song, and cheers, and the scene
+was a highly animating and inspiring one. Such sights are seldom
+witnessed, and are not to be soon forgotten. Before turning into our
+hut, seated myself on a bank a little distance apart from the rest, in
+company with my friend K., and we took a quiet smoke and talked of
+home, whither our thoughts continually turned. Enjoyed the best
+night's rest of the campaign, owing to the comfort of our quarters.
+
+
+_Wednesday, September 17._ Drilled in the morning in the adjoining
+fields, and while thus engaged observed a renewal of the reports of
+artillery towards the south, heard on the day previous, and with still
+greater distinctness. These proceeded, as we afterwards learned, from
+the battle-field of Antietam, some thirty miles off. A dull gruff
+belch, at irregular intervals, accompanied by a sense of concussion,
+told the story of the distant conflict. This inspired strange and
+solemn feelings. Human lives were being offered up as a sacrifice upon
+the altar of our country, and thousands of homes would sit in dread
+suspense until it should be known upon whom the fatal blows had
+fallen. The result, too, was of great concern to us, who were mere
+auxiliaries in reserve against an untoward crisis. The evolutions now
+assumed a significance they had not heretofore possessed. Their object
+seemed no longer to be skill merely, but preparation. The zeal for
+duty was quickened, and it was the idea of responsibility which was
+uppermost in the minds of all. Additional regiments meanwhile arrived,
+among others two of the Gray Reserves and Home Guards of Philadelphia,
+which left Harrisburg yesterday. With drilling, guard mounting, and
+the usual routine of camp duties, the day wore slowly away. Another
+picturesque scene at night. After roll-call crawled again into our
+comfortable domicil of cornstalks, with every reason to expect another
+good night's sleep. This idea, however, was a grievous delusion, as
+the sequel will show.
+
+
+_Thursday, September 18._ About 11 o'clock last night the beating of
+the ominous long roll aroused us from our peaceful slumbers, and the
+word quickly passed that we had received marching orders for
+Hagerstown, and were to be ready to leave at 12. The accoutrements
+having been collected by the light of the fires, the regiment marched
+to the railroad, a mile off, where it was expected a train would be in
+waiting for us. Alas! we here received our first practical lesson of
+the great uncertainty of military movements, and the mechanical nature
+of the duties of the soldier, who must obey orders, simply, without
+inquiring for reasons. In the quality of civilians, which we could not
+altogether consent to drop, our sense of individual importance was
+frequently infringed upon in our new capacity. Each in his turn felt
+disposed to divide with his superiors the responsibility of the
+command. After waiting several hours in the crisp cool air of the
+autumn night, without any train appearing, we lost all patience and
+lay down on our blankets for temporary repose. As the dews of heaven
+gently distilled upon our unprotected forms, the memory of the
+comfortable quarters we had just left did not add to the feelings of
+reconciliation to our present miserable situation. Sundry imprecations
+were vented upon the unknown authority in charge of the department of
+transportation. Many went to sleep, from which they would be
+occasionally roused by the rapid passing of trains, but our own
+looked-for conveyance did not, nevertheless, arrive. Morning broke at
+length and breakfast was improvised by the cooks.
+
+We waited hour after hour for our train, but in vain. Wrote letters
+home beside the railroad track, on the ends of the sills. Various
+reports from the army were in circulation, respecting the result of
+the battle, and the movements of the enemy, subsequently found to be
+unreliable. After dinner had a battalion drill, and when all
+expectation of the train had been given up, between 3 and 4 o'clock it
+suddenly appeared. Cheers greeted its arrival. It consisted, like the
+one in which we had come down, of house cars adapted for the present
+purpose, and we boarded it just in time to escape a shower which began
+falling at this moment. Were off, at length, and after a short halt at
+Greencastle, where I laid in some provisions, arrived about 6 o'clock
+at Hagerstown, which we found occupied by a considerable militia force
+that had been pushed forward within the past two days. Were surprised
+to find the companies of Captains Hunter and Eisenhower, from Reading,
+already there, as they had started from home after we had. Were
+informed by them that they had left Harrisburg on Tuesday night, and
+arrived at Hagerstown on Wednesday morning. They had been attached to
+the 11th Regiment, to the command of which Charles A. Knoderer, a
+talented civil engineer of Reading, who went as a private of Captain
+Eisenhower's company, had been promoted. The regiment was encamped a
+short distance below town on the Williamsport pike. Heard more
+definite intelligence of the result of the great battle fought
+yesterday, which is claimed as a decided Union victory. Were informed
+of the death of Captain William H. Andrews, of the 128th Regiment, who
+fell in the battle, and also of its commander, Colonel Croasdale.
+Captain Andrews's body had already arrived in Hagerstown. Several
+other members of Reading companies had been killed.
+
+Our company was separated from the regiment and marched in the dusk of
+the evening into a narrow lane not far from the railroad depot, where
+we were told we were to pass the night. The ground was wet from the
+rain which had fallen, and a slight drizzle continuing, a most gloomy
+and uncomfortable aspect was imparted to the surroundings. The
+prospect for rest was extremely unpromising. There was nothing to lie
+upon except our gum blankets, and no better shelter than what could be
+improvised by stretching the tents--with which we were now temporarily
+provided--from the top of a fence to the ground. There appeared to be
+some confusion as to the arrangements for quarters, and we could not
+understand why a better situation had not been selected for the
+night's bivouac. After supper K. and myself went through the town to
+buy some lanterns and other things for the quartermaster. We were
+conducted by an old negro whom we picked up by the way, and obtained
+what we were in quest of, as well as a couple of bottles of good
+whiskey, procured at a grocery store, notwithstanding the fact that
+the town was under martial law, and the sale of liquor to soldiers had
+been prohibited.
+
+After having made a pretty thorough exploration of the place, we
+returned to quarters, where we found a sharp discussion going on as to
+the propriety of the Governor's sending us across the State line, the
+authority for which some of the men were disposed to question. The
+objection evidently proceeded from those who did not like our present
+proximity to the seat of war. The debate ended, however, in a tacit
+concurrence in the opinion of the majority that it was all right.
+Passed a miserable night in this uncomfortable situation. Slept but
+little, and caught a severe cold, from the effects of which I suffered
+for several weeks.
+
+
+_Friday, September 19._ Orders came about eight o'clock to go into
+camp at a place about a mile below town, on the Williamsport pike, and
+in the course of a couple of hours the scattered regiment had been
+collected and transferred to the point indicated. The spot was known
+as the old Washington County Agricultural Fair Ground, and but a few
+days previously had been occupied as a rebel camp. Its principal
+attraction was a large and fine spring of pure water. The 11th was in
+the same vicinity. Before the company moved from the lane, I had been
+detailed, with a squad, to go to a certain farm-house, about two miles
+out of town, for the purpose of impressing a team for the conveyance
+of the regimental luggage. Went to the place designated, but found
+that the farmer's wagons were already in service--at least he so
+informed us. Lieutenant William P. Brinton, of Company H, and myself
+then proceeded half a mile further upon the same errand, and found a
+man plowing in a field. Told him that we wanted his team, and he
+complied without protest. I rode one of the horses to his house, and
+during this time heard some pretty heavy artillery discharges in the
+direction of the Potomac, or rather to the eastward, apparently about
+six or eight miles off. This was occasioned, as it was afterwards
+developed, by the escape of the main body of the rebel army across the
+river, below Williamsport, under a fire from detachments of
+McClellan's forces. After we had been kindly treated to a good lunch
+by the farmer, the team was conducted off in the charge of the
+lieutenant, while I took the nearest course to the farm-house first
+visited, to bring back some men who had been left there. Finding that
+they had already gone, I walked into Hagerstown, where I had some
+difficulty in ascertaining the whereabouts of our regiment, the
+marching orders having been executed during my absence. Took the
+opportunity to reconnoitre through the town for the purpose of laying
+in some provisions. The great frequency with which that occupation is
+noted in this narrative need excite no undue wonder, since, as we were
+nearly always eating, our private supplies were in a continually
+deplenished state. Hagerstown is an antiquated looking place, and is,
+at the present time, the seat of unusual activity, owing to its
+proximity to the centre of military operations. The population was
+said to be about equally divided in its political sympathies. It had
+been held alternately by both sides, so that everybody had had in turn
+an opportunity of "giving aid and comfort to the enemy." At the
+present it was transformed, for the time being, into a vast hospital,
+many of its public buildings being occupied for this purpose. Governor
+Curtin was here looking after the welfare of the Pennsylvania troops.
+By the Williamsport pike, a number of our wounded soldiers were still
+being brought in from the battle-field, a distance of ten miles. The
+sight of these sufferers was touching. Some were in ambulances, while
+others lay in the bottoms of ordinary farm wagons, with little or no
+shelter from the hot sun. Their wounds had been dressed, and the
+heroic courage which they manifested was something inspiring to
+witness. Many bodies of the dead had been sent in for transportation.
+In a wheelwright shop to which my attention was attracted, I saw the
+lifeless forms of two officers in uniform--a major and a
+lieutenant--awaiting boxing. The faces were ghastly, and I turned from
+them with a feeling of pain as I thought of the hearts that even now,
+perhaps, were being torn with grief in the distant homes. These sights
+were realities, not pictures, and gave me a more vivid idea of the
+horrors of war than the most graphic pen descriptions I had ever read.
+Alas! I thought, to what extent is this slaughter to go on, and when
+will the sacrifice for patriotism's sake be complete?
+
+Came up with the camp at length, and found the men engaged in clearing
+the ground and pitching the tents, which work was continued until
+dinner time. Toward the middle of the afternoon, great interest began
+to centre upon the road, occasioned by the frequent and furious
+galloping up and down of cavalry pickets and aids, and the report
+spread that a considerable body of rebels was advancing up the pike in
+the direction of Hagerstown. The long roll was beat, and the command
+to fall in was given. We were now supplied with sixty rounds of
+ammunition per man--the first that we had received--and loaded our
+guns, which looked like business. In default of the usual appliances
+for that purpose, the cartridges were deposited in our overcoat
+pockets. Thus ballasted, we were marched down the road about a mile
+and a-half, and halted at a point where detached lines of battle were
+being formed. Our regiment was deployed in two ranks to the left of
+the great road, in a ploughed field, on rising ground, and was in the
+front line. The Gray and Blue Reserves of Philadelphia, supported by a
+battery, constituted a portion of the right wing on the other side of
+the road, and the Maryland Brigade, a uniformed body of three years'
+men, five thousand strong, commanded by General Kenley, were posted on
+our extreme left. A regiment of skirmishers were in a wood a little in
+advance of the brigade. Some twelve or fifteen thousand men were thus
+concentrated in several lines, and the whole force was so disposed as
+to afford a converging fire upon the road. Major-General John F.
+Reynolds, who we learned was in command, had his headquarters on a
+hill, to the right of the road, where the colors were planted, and at
+which point aids were observed to be constantly reporting.
+
+Things now began to wear a serious appearance. A number of farmers
+were noticed removing their household goods from our front, towards
+Hagerstown, by the road. They were evidently alarmed, and expected a
+battle. It was also remarked that portions of the fences along the
+pike had been torn down, and the rails piled up at different points in
+the road, by way of obstructions against the advance of an opposing
+force. We stood at a rest in the line, with guns half-cocked and
+bayonets fixed, momentarily awaiting the appearance of the foe. An
+incident occurred at this juncture which, though trifling, drew the
+attention of the entire force for the time being. The report of a
+musket was heard in the woods where the skirmishers were, followed by
+a loud shriek and audible groans. It was at once surmised that one of
+the militiamen had been accidentally shot. Presently, a crowd was
+observed conducting a man up the road toward the town, and it was then
+explained that this person was subject to attacks of mania-a-potu, and
+that the excitement of the moment had made him crazy. The occurrence
+could not but be suggestive of a similar catastrophe to the reason of
+some others of the force, who were just then exposed to the like
+danger.
+
+Our Colonel next rode along in front of the regiment, observing to us
+that we must not mind if we found a little hail coming over in our
+direction soon. The preparations were now complete, and the decisive
+moment seemed to be rapidly approaching. But--tamely enough to
+relate--hours were passed in the same situation without any further
+developments whatever. Meanwhile the beautiful autumnal afternoon
+wore gradually away, and the sun went down behind the Cumberland
+Mountains, throwing a flood of golden light over the really
+picturesque landscape. Virgil's charming line involuntarily crossed my
+mind:--
+
+        "Sol ruit interea, et montes umbrantur opaci."
+
+The singular beauty of the scene, and the absorbing interest of the
+situation, with its profound and alternating emotions of hope and
+apprehension, painted a picture upon the memory which time can never
+obliterate. Dusk thickened into night, and we remained in a standing
+posture until nine o'clock, when we were permitted to rest our pieces
+upon the ground and stealthily eat our rations. Some neighboring
+grain-stacks were invaded, and a few sheaves brought, which we unbound
+and strewed along the clods. Upon these we were at length allowed to
+lie down to rest--not to sleep--still grasping our cocked pieces, and
+ready for an instant alarm. About one o'clock the report was
+circulated, which proved to be the fact, that the forces of McClellan
+had driven the enemy across the Potomac into Virginia; but it was
+stated that some detached bodies of the latter had been cut off, and
+that the services of the militia were desired in order to capture
+them. The proposition was discussed--a debate being admissible under
+the peculiar circumstances, since it will be remembered we were not
+sworn into service--and it was resolved that we would go as far as the
+Potomac. Before we could move, however, the order was countermanded,
+and the summons was now suspected to be a stratagem to test our
+mettle. But contemporaneous events justify the conclusion that it was
+otherwise, and that no ruse was designed to be attempted in this
+affair, at the expense of the gallantry of Pennsylvania's home
+defenders.
+
+
+_Saturday, September 20._ At daylight we were allowed to break ranks
+and stack our arms. No very definite information could be obtained
+during the morning as to the probable developments of the day, but, so
+far as appearances indicated, the situation of affairs was unchanged.
+
+While in our present position I cannot restrain a feeling of
+admiration for the earnestness of many of the members of our
+organization. Among them are some of Reading's most considerable
+citizens, men who occupy important stations, and carry weighty
+responsibilities. Strange figures, indeed, they make here, in far-off
+Maryland, resting upon their arms, and keeping watch for the invading
+foe. Could their loved ones see them at this moment, what moral heroes
+would they appear in their eyes! I could not help observing how
+strikingly the predominant characteristics of men are developed in
+critical emergencies. In our mutual concern for the common safety, it
+is in the strongest characters that we feel our chief reliance is to
+be placed. Those who have the fairest reputations at stake, display
+the greatest degree of firmness, and _vice versa_. This criterion, it
+is evident, will hold good when the severest test shall be applied.
+H.V.R., a member of the Bar, cares little for the details of military
+discipline, but is a model of fidelity to the idea of duty, as is also
+his brother J., who is a layman. Dr. M., a bank officer, is
+punctuality itself, probably from long force of habit, and shrinks
+from no service, even the humblest. His former connection with
+military companies makes him a highly intelligent soldier. Mr. G.,
+also a lawyer--I waive the military titles--moves cautiously,
+deliberates and debates, but perseveres. As a gigantic shooting
+excursion he is probably best reconciled to the present expedition,
+and since we have now secured our ammunition, is doubtless anxious to
+sight the game. L.B., a merchant, is a model civilian, and a man of
+recognized high character. He has left home with a purpose, which he
+will stand to, come what may. D.E., the candidate for office to whom I
+have before referred, was never born to be a willing subject of rules
+in any sphere of life, and makes an erratic soldier. He has become
+tired of the slow progress we have been making toward the
+battle-field, which, in a spectacular sense, he is impatient to look
+upon. J.W.B., a light-hearted old time captain of a troop of horse,
+is true game; and the same may be said of our Quartermaster, L.M., who
+keeps the command in good humor by the jokes which he is constantly
+bandying with the Captain. J.K.S., printer, is remarkable for his
+intelligence as to the object of those military manoeuvres which the
+rest of us regard as inexplicable. J.P. is a sturdy fellow, of clear
+grit, who would be a good neighbor in a perilous moment. B.O. is a
+serious man, distinguished for the quiet regularity of his bearing and
+steadiness of his movements. Not so Dr. B., a waggish apothecary,
+whose skill as a forager I have all along had occasion to mark, and
+who seems, when an advance is made, to be at all points of the camp at
+the same time. J.H.F., an ex-country justice of the peace, enjoys the
+distinction of being the only man in the company in regimentals,
+having donned a uniform made for him some years ago, when he was
+orderly sergeant of a company which belonged to the Kutztown
+battalion. His avoirdupois has greatly increased since the garments
+were made, and his harness is so tight that he finds marching very
+uncomfortable. He stands upright a large part of the time from force
+of circumstances, and sits down with caution. Our orderly, J.G.S., a
+harum-scarum young attorney, is a singular mixture of discipline and
+drollery. Lieutenant R. is an exceedingly modest man, who is not
+without knowledge and merit as an officer. Lieutenant W. is an old
+soldier, of quick eye and firm bearing. The utmost reliance can be
+placed in his intelligence and courage. Private K., bank teller,
+before mentioned, and myself, though separated in the ranks by reason
+of a difference in inches, have taken a liking to each other, and have
+formed a solemn league of mutual assistance when matters come to the
+worst. As he is armed with a pistol and a dirk, in addition to his
+musket, I feel that the advantage of the covenant is largely on my
+side.
+
+At 4 P.M. artillery firing was renewed in our front, and an hour or so
+later the long roll was again beat all along the line, and the command
+to fall in was given. A forward movement down the road had been
+ordered. The intelligence had been brought in that a body of the
+rebels had recrossed the river at Williamsport, and the subsequent
+official dispatches explained that this force was a detachment of
+Lee's cavalry under Stuart, with a regiment of infantry and some
+pieces of artillery, whose evident design was a raid upon Hagerstown,
+where a large quantity of military stores had been received for
+McClellan's army. General Couch's division had been sent up to drive
+him back, and it was the exchange of compliments between the two which
+we now heard, though of this explanation we were for the time being
+ignorant.
+
+In the march down the road, the cavalry took the advance, and were
+followed by the Maryland Brigade. The militia then closed in, and the
+successive lines gradually dissolved into a single column. The
+musicians were sent to the rear. After proceeding half a mile or so,
+the column was halted, and came to a rest in the road, in which
+position it remained for an hour or more. By this time it was dusk,
+and the artillery discharges in the front had become really
+formidable. The firing was principally from the rebel guns. Signal
+rockets now and then illuminated the sky, and a brilliant panorama was
+presented to the view, the complexion of which was decidedly warlike.
+Aids galloped up and down the column at a rattling pace, and things
+rapidly assumed an air of confusion. I draw a veil over the scenes
+presented at this juncture among a portion of the reserves of General
+Reynolds. It would take a better soldier than myself to tell what
+would have been the result of a serious collision at this moment, to
+the body of this force, whose chief misfortune was that it was
+entirely undisciplined. The plan agreed on was to receive the
+advancing enemy with the bayonet, in case a fire should be found
+ineffectual to check his progress. Many of our comrades made leagues
+with each other, offensive and defensive, and examples of coolness
+and determination inspired confidence in the main body of the men,
+who, I am satisfied, would have followed orders and done their duty.
+
+The firing presently ceased, and from some mounted officers the
+intelligence was communicated that General Couch's division was now
+immediately upon our front, and that our pickets were in
+correspondence with his. At about eight o'clock we were ordered to
+quarters in a stubble-field alongside the road, having been previously
+cautioned by the Colonel not to build large fires, which injunction,
+it is unnecessary to state, was faithfully obeyed. The roll was called
+by the orderly, and the guards posted for the night. Did guard duty
+from eight to ten, and from three to five. During the night, as the
+sequel showed, the enemy, finding their design anticipated, and
+perceiving the preparations on all sides to intercept them of so
+thorough a character, abandoned their project on Hagerstown, and,
+under the cover of darkness, quietly recrossed the Potomac, and
+escaped safely into Virginia--horse, foot, and dragoons! Thus
+virtually ended the militia campaign in Maryland.
+
+
+_Sunday, September 21._ Moved our camp into a very desirable location
+in the adjoining woods recently occupied by our skirmishers. As it
+was now generally understood that all immediate danger was at an end,
+signs of the relaxation of military discipline began to appear, and we
+returned to the easy habits which had characterized our band of
+civilian soldiery before it arrived in the vicinity of the late scene
+of conflict between the hostile armies. The tents were leisurely put
+up, and, the strain of the past two days being taken off, we prepared
+to spend a pleasant day of rest in the cool shade of the woods. Some
+of the members of an adjoining regiment began a promiscuous firing of
+their pieces, which it was said came very nearly drawing down the fire
+of General Couch's guns upon our peaceful camp, it being supposed for
+the time being that some straggling bands of the enemy might still be
+lurking in the neighborhood. The chaplain of the regiment held
+religious services, while some of the men stretched themselves under
+the trees, and others made haste to write letters home, giving
+accounts of the perilous scenes through which they had passed. These
+missives, as it turned out, they had the gratification of delivering
+in person. The Quartermaster, with his accustomed forethought, had
+made a requisition before daylight on a neighboring hen-roost, and
+preparations for serving dinner had already been begun, when, at
+eleven o'clock, marching orders for Greencastle, Pa., arrived. This
+was an agreeable surprise, as it suggested a homeward journey. The
+authorities evidently regarded the emergency for which we had been
+called out as at an end, and since this fact was assumed, a longer
+sojourn in Maryland appeared undesirable.
+
+We now packed up our traps and moved up to our former camping ground
+at the Agricultural Park, near Hagerstown, where the interrupted
+dinner of rice soup and chicken was most thoroughly appreciated. At
+two P.M. the regiment started off in light marching order, the baggage
+wagons following. We now took leave of the 11th, a portion of whom had
+been making themselves useful that morning in the town in unloading
+the military stores that had been sent here by rail for the army. As
+we passed through the streets, we put on our best appearance, the men
+struck up a song, and we were cheeringly greeted by the population.
+Reaching the open country, we marched at random. The afternoon was
+warm and the roads exceedingly dusty. About dusk, the line between
+Maryland and Pennsylvania was crossed, and three hearty cheers were
+given for the Keystone State. Stopped half an hour in the little
+village called Middleburg, or "State Line," at which point the
+Anderson Cavalry passed us on their way to Carlisle, raising a
+suffocating dust. At dark the march was resumed, and having proceeded
+a short distance, we were ordered to discharge our muskets, which had
+been loaded for the rebels. This made a continuous blaze of light
+along the whole line. Some of the men charged and fired again, to keep
+up the sport, but the Colonel put a stop to this. The road grew
+rougher as we advanced, and many of our comrades now and again
+stumbled and fell in the darkness. After having marched twelve miles,
+and arrived within some three miles of Greencastle, we were halted
+about half-past eight o'clock, and went into camp in the woods. Sleep
+came without courting. I had never before felt its influence so
+insinuating, so benumbing, so irresistible!
+
+
+_Monday, September 22._ The teams being now dismissed, each man
+shouldered his own luggage, and the march was resumed at eight
+o'clock. At Greencastle we found an encampment designated as "Camp
+M'Cormick," containing several thousand militia, which had not
+proceeded further south than this point, having been among the later
+organizations. With these was the 20th Regiment, containing the
+companies of Captains Boas, Geiger, and Harner, from Reading, with
+whom we exchanged friendly greetings as we passed. About a mile above
+Greencastle we were halted in a wood, and after considerable
+manoeuvring, the import of which we could not understand, and, being
+very tired, could not appreciate, we stacked arms and unslung
+knapsacks. Here we were rejoined by several of our men who had been
+down the day before to visit the battle-field, having been fortunate
+enough to secure passes from the military authorities for that
+purpose. They gave terrible descriptions of the scenes which they had
+witnessed, and exhibited a number of relics which they had brought
+away. It was understood that the parley at this juncture was with
+reference to the arrangements for transportation, a subject which, as
+usual, appeared to be involved in much intricacy. The period of our
+stay in this situation was therefore uncertain, and after dinner had
+been served, the remainder of the day was given up to relaxation and
+amusement. Under the latter head came in performances of
+blanket-tossing and elephant parades--tricks which most of us had
+never seen before, but which we learned were well known among old
+soldiers. The Sancho Panza of this occasion was a small boy, picked up
+by the Lancaster Company, and I dare say that, from the energy and
+perseverance with which the sport was conducted, the unfortunate lad
+got more of it than he bargained for. This company had among their
+number a comical genius named Gable, irreverently dubbed the
+"Chaplain," whose sallies afforded a never-ending source of amusement
+to his comrades, as well as to some of the field and staff officers,
+who frequently formed a portion of his admiring auditory. Most of the
+Chaplain's wit on this, as on other occasions, was of a character
+that would have far removed it from the test of refined criticism.
+Mirth and song filled in the waning hours of the day, and, all
+restraints being removed, the night was given up to general hilarity.
+
+
+_Tuesday, September 23._ Were aroused at 2 A.M. by the receipt of
+orders to proceed to the railroad, half a mile away, for
+transportation. Again we were the victims of an unfortunate bungle in
+the railway arrangements. The train which had been intended for our
+accommodation was appropriated by another regiment, whose triumphant
+departure up the valley we had the satisfaction of witnessing. Several
+other trains passed, and at daylight we were still in _statu quo_,
+worn out with fatigue, and vexed with disappointment. The entire day
+was passed in the same situation, and to add to our discomfiture, the
+rations had given out and the neighborhood was unpromising for forage
+of any kind. Was assigned for guard duty the ensuing night from ten to
+twelve, when lo! at about eleven, after the long expected event had
+ceased to be anticipated, it came to pass suddenly. The screech of a
+steam-whistle was heard alongside of us, which announced that our
+train was at last on hand. After the usual preparatory bustle, we were
+safely loaded up, and were presently whizzing off at a good speed
+toward Chambersburg. The dim light of the lanterns tied to the rods
+at the top of the cars, threw a gloomy air over the sleeping freight
+which they contained. At one o'clock a halt of an hour was made at
+Chambersburg, and by daylight Shippensburg was reached.
+
+
+_Wednesday, September 24._ At Carlisle another stop of half an hour.
+The morning was clear and bright, and the men in the most cheerful
+spirits. We arrived at Harrisburg at eleven o'clock, and were marched
+at once to the Capitol grounds, where we turned over our arms and
+accoutrements at the Arsenal. In company with K., I went to the United
+States Hotel, where we got a good dinner. I am inclined to think the
+landlord did not clear much on the meal which we laid in on that
+occasion. At 1.45 P.M. the company took the regular afternoon
+passenger train for Reading, our Pottsville friends being again with
+us. Reached home at 4.15, and found a concourse of citizens assembled
+at the depot with a band of music to receive us. After a short street
+parade, by way of exhibition, I presume, of the State's gallant
+defenders, we filed into our old mustering place, at Fifth and
+Washington Streets, where, with loud and hearty cheers for everybody
+concerned, we were dismissed, and thus our brief but memorable militia
+campaign of eleven days peacefully ended.
+
+The company of Captain Bickley, which had been the first to leave
+Reading, was also the first to reach home. On the day it arrived, a
+proclamation was issued by Governor Curtin, discharging the militia,
+with his grateful acknowledgments in the name of the State, and
+commending their bravery in passing the borders, although not required
+to do so by the terms of the call, holding Hagerstown against an
+advancing foe, and resisting the threatened movement of the rebels
+upon Williamsport until the United States troops arrived and relieved
+them. This timely and heroic action, the Governor said, saved the
+State from the tread of the invading enemy. He recommended that the
+militia organizations be preserved and perfected--a suggestion which
+was not generally followed.
+
+The only sad feature of the campaign was the dreadful accident which
+befel the company of Captain Boas, from Reading, of the 20th Regiment,
+on the Cumberland Valley Railroad, near Harrisburg, at an early hour
+on the morning of Friday, the 26th of September. The train on which
+they were returning collided with one going in the opposite direction,
+and four members of the company were killed and some thirty injured.
+
+General McClellan thanked Governor Curtin for the timely aid of the
+State militia, and the moral support thus rendered to the army.
+Governor Bradford, of Maryland, made a similar acknowledgment. Nearly
+fifty thousand Pennsylvania militia responded to the original call,
+about one-half of whom were in actual service on the border. The
+following year they were compensated by the State, the Legislature
+having made an appropriation for that purpose, allowing fifteen days'
+pay to each man, at the rate prescribed by Act of Congress for the
+payment of the regulars and volunteers in the United States service.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the
+war of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
+
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the war
+of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Eleven days in the militia during the war of the rebellion
+       A journal of the 'Emergency' campaign of 1862
+
+Author: A Militiaman
+
+Release Date: April 12, 2010 [EBook #31969]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Jeannie Howse and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
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+
+</pre>
+
+
+<br />
+<hr />
+<br />
+
+<h1 class="sc">Eleven Days in the Militia</h1>
+
+<h6 class="sc">During The</h6>
+
+<h2>WAR OF THE REBELLION;</h2>
+
+<h6>BEING</h6>
+
+<h4>A JOURNAL OF THE "EMERGENCY" CAMPAIGN OF 1862.</h4>
+
+<h4>BY A MILITIAMAN.</h4>
+
+<br />
+<br />
+
+<div class="img">
+<img border="0" src="images/deco.png" width="12%" alt="Publisher's Mark" />
+</div>
+
+<br />
+<br />
+
+<h5>COLLINS, PRINTER, PHILADELPHIA.<br />
+1883.</h5>
+
+<br />
+<hr />
+<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+
+<h4>Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1883, by<br />
+THE COLLINS PRINTING HOUSE,<br />
+in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.</h4>
+
+<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<hr />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span><br />
+
+<h3>INTRODUCTION.</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>Twenty years have passed away since a band of hastily-gathered
+minute-men left their homes to defend the soil of Pennsylvania from
+the first threatened invasion of the State by the rebel army under
+General R.E. Lee. Viewed through the lapse of this long period,
+crowded as it has been with so many momentous events in the life of
+the nation, the incidents of that brief and comparatively unimportant
+campaign begin, nevertheless, from their increasing remoteness, to
+take upon themselves a degree of historic interest. In respect to both
+their significance and their adventure, they greatly exceed the
+occurrences which attended the march of the celebrated Advance Light
+Brigade to the defence of Philadelphia in the war of 1812-14, in which
+latter body of citizen soldiery the county of Berks had the honor to
+be liberally represented.</p>
+
+<p>With many of the participants in the movements of September, 1862,
+that minor undertaking comprises the sum total of their personal
+experience of military service during the entire ordeal of our
+country's conflict. To them, therefore, the memories of that period of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span>
+excitement and alarm are invested with a peculiar interest&mdash;a
+sentiment which must to a degree continue to be shared by their
+descendants. In the belief that a narration of its details may serve
+to rekindle in the breasts of his surviving companions something of
+the enthusiasm which they originally inspired, the writer has been
+encouraged, after the lapse of nearly a generation, to undertake the
+pleasing and congenial task.</p>
+
+<p>Fidelity to fact is at the least claimed for the present performance,
+which, devoid as it is of literary pretensions, may nevertheless be
+deemed not unworthy of an humble place among the contributions to the
+history of a stirring epoch in the annals of our good old Commonwealth
+at the trying period of the nation's struggle. The basis of the
+narrative is a personal journal of the service to which it refers,
+kept at the time it transpired, the entries in which were dictated by
+the feelings and impressions of the moment. These impressions, it is
+to be remembered, were those of a simple civilian&mdash;one who felt little
+interest in the details of military service apart from the cause in
+which it is undertaken. Yet the relation may, from this very fact,
+commend itself the more to the friendly regard of his comrades, most
+of whom were at that period equally inexperienced in the proper<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span>
+discipline of the soldier. On the other hand, should it attract the
+notice of the veteran, it will doubtless serve to amuse him by
+comparison with his own experience amidst the greater perils of
+"grim-visaged war," which he is even yet so pardonably fond of
+recounting.</p>
+
+<p>From what has been already advanced, it will be unnecessary to place
+any special emphasis upon the disclaimer which it nevertheless remains
+to make, that any possible object of applause is sought to be
+associated with the expedition which it is purposed to record. Very
+distinctly is the impression made at the time in the mind of the
+writer, preserved to the present, that in promptly proceeding to the
+scene of danger, the Pennsylvania militia were confronted with a more
+urgent incentive than that which animated the legions of brave men who
+had already gone forth to face the enemy on the distant battle-fields
+of the South. Our homes were threatened&mdash;the horrors of desolating war
+seemed likely to be brought to our very doors. The instinct of
+self-preservation effectually appealed to even the most unpatriotic
+hearts. No other honorable alternative was left but to go out to meet
+the hostile invader. Alarms often repeated, by night and by day,
+suggested the imminence of the danger. Others, with a more deliberate
+devotion to their country's cause, had volunteered for long periods of
+service. To fail to rally for the protection of our own firesides,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span>
+with all their consecrated associations, would have been unworthy of
+the very lowest requirements of patriotism. The most abiding sentiment
+of those who were called to no severer military duty than the militia
+campaign of 1862, or that of the following year, must always be a
+heartfelt appreciation of, and gratitude for, the services of the
+brave veterans of the War of the Rebellion, to whose heroic deeds we
+are indebted for the preservation of our liberties, and the blessings
+of a reunited country.</p>
+
+<p>But, justice to the minute-men of 1862 requires it to be said that,
+although in the light of subsequent events, the achievements of their
+brief campaign seem to sink into such comparative insignificance&mdash;so
+marked indeed that the very narration of them appears to savor more of
+humor than of valor&mdash;there were among their number multitudes who were
+animated by as warm a patriotism as that which burned in the breasts
+of their gallant comrades then already at the front&mdash;who were as ready
+as they to lay down their lives in defence of the dearest interests of
+freemen, and who, had the occasion presented itself, would have done
+equal honor to their country's service. It is not to be forgotten,
+moreover, that at the crisis when they marched to the rescue of the
+State, it could not be foreseen what was to be the issue of their
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span>mission, or how great the sacrifice which they might be called upon to
+make. It was cause for lasting gratification with them that their very
+presence upon the borders at the juncture when they appeared, and in
+the numbers in which they came, greatly contributed to encourage their
+brethren who were then passing through the heat and fire of the
+conflict, as well as to deter the progress of the invading foe. Raw
+and undisciplined as they undoubtedly were, who can now say that their
+prompt rendezvous at the centre of military operations did not
+signally aid the successful efforts of the army to turn backward the
+march of the enemy after the terrific shock which he received on the
+memorable field of Antietam?</p>
+
+<p class="right">L.R.</p>
+
+<p><span class="sc">Reading</span>, September, 1882.</p>
+
+<br />
+<br />
+<br />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span><br />
+<hr />
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span><br />
+
+<h3>ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA.</h3>
+<br />
+
+<p>After the reverses to our arms at the disastrous battles of the Second
+Bull Run and Centreville, in the latter part of August, 1862, and the
+retrograde movements of the Union forces in Virginia in consequence,
+the purpose of the enemy to follow up his advantage by endeavoring to
+take the Capital, invade the Middle States, and thus strike terror
+into the hearts of the people of the North, became immediately
+apparent. In the early part of September, war meetings were being held
+in Pennsylvania to raise the quota of the State in lieu of the draft
+then impending, in pursuance of the requisition of the President of
+the United States for three hundred thousand men. The Reserves had
+been called away to succor the hard-pressed army of McClellan, and the
+borders were left wholly unprotected at the inviting season of
+harvest. As a measure of precaution against the impending danger,
+Governor Curtin on the 4th of September issued a proclamation
+recommending the immediate formation of volunteer <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span>companies
+throughout the State, in conformity with existing militia laws, for
+home defence, and suggesting the closing of all places of business at
+3 o'clock P.M. daily, in order to afford due opportunity for drill and
+preparation. On the next day, Mayor David McKnight of Reading, who was
+acting in that capacity in the place of Mayor Joel B. Wanner, then in
+the field as Major of the 128th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers,
+also issued a manifesto, in pursuance of the spirit of the Governor's
+proclamation, requiring the assemblage of the citizens at certain
+places designated within their respective wards, for the organization
+of companies, and also the holding of daily drills from 4 to 6 P.M.</p>
+
+<p>On the 5th, the rebel army under General Lee, comprising a force
+estimated at eighty thousand infantry, eight thousand cavalry, and one
+hundred and fifty pieces of artillery, crossed the Potomac at or near
+the Point of Rocks, and entered Frederick. Among its division
+commanders were Magruder, Walker, Anderson, A.P. Hill, Stuart,
+Longstreet, Ewell, and Stonewall Jackson. With the occupation of
+Maryland, matters reached an alarming crisis, and the imminent danger
+to Pennsylvania became at once evident. The boldness and celerity of
+the enemy's movements suggested the necessity for prompt action on the
+part of the State authorities. On the 10th of September, the
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span>Governor, acting under the direction of the President of the United
+States, issued another proclamation, as Commander-in-Chief of the
+militia, designated as General Order No. 35, calling on all the
+able-bodied men of the State to organize for its defence, and be ready
+to march to Harrisburg at an hour's notice, subject to his order. The
+companies were directed to be filled in accordance with the army
+standards of the United States, and as it was stated that the call
+might be sudden, the officers and men were required to provide
+themselves with the best arms they could procure, with at least sixty
+rounds of suitable ammunition, good stout clothing, uniform or
+otherwise; boots, blankets, and haversacks. The order further
+stipulated that the organizations would be held in service for such
+time only as the pressing emergency for the State defence might
+continue.</p>
+
+<p>On the morning of the 11th, the rebel cavalry under Stuart entered
+Hagerstown, the southern terminus of the Cumberland Valley Railroad,
+six miles from the Pennsylvania line, the main body being about
+two-and-a-half miles behind, at Funkstown. The army of McClellan had
+in the meantime advanced to Poolesville. As soon as this intelligence
+reached Harrisburg, the Governor at 4 o'clock on the afternoon of that
+day issued General Order No. 36, calling into immediate service fifty
+thousand of the freemen of Pennsylvania, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span>under the terms of the
+proclamation of the previous day, to repel the rebel invasion.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after the publication of the proclamation of Wednesday,
+September 10th, the work of forming militia companies in Reading was
+begun in earnest, the efforts that had been previously made in that
+direction not having been attended with much practical result. In the
+evening, the court-house bell was rung, and the building was rapidly
+filled. Mayor McKnight presided over the meeting. Dispatches were read
+indicating the approach of the enemy to the borders, and resolutions
+were adopted to organize companies forthwith in each of the wards.
+Many went directly from the meeting to the different places of
+rendezvous, and enrolled themselves for the State defence. There was
+not at the time a single full military company in Reading, all the
+troops enlisted for stated terms of service having already gone to the
+front. The night was one of much activity and excitement. Drilling was
+done in Penn Square to the inspiring accompaniment of fife and drum,
+which gave the town a decidedly warlike appearance. This exercise was
+continued daily and nightly until the militia had marched, and at no
+period during the entire war did the military enthusiasm of the people
+reach a greater height.</p>
+
+<p>In the instruction of the troops, the manual of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span>arms had to be
+omitted, for there were no guns. Officers had been hastily selected,
+and the commands in most cases given to experienced soldiers, whose
+services were in sudden and great demand. The fidelity of the men was
+accepted without any suggestion of the test of an oath. The companies
+recruited rapidly, and were not long in filling up to the standard.
+Their evolutions, which were conducted to a large extent in the open
+square, under the cover of darkness, were at times edifying to
+witness. As the battalions marched with sturdy tread up and down on
+either side of the central market-houses, collisions would now and
+then derange the symmetry of the forces. Frequent resort to unmilitary
+language on the part of the commanders was necessary to bring up the
+laggard platoons, and movements were habitually executed for which no
+precedent could have been found in either Scott or Hardee. But it was
+patriotism and not tactics that was uppermost in the minds of all, and
+trifling imperfections of military discipline were, for the moment at
+least, sunk out of sight in the sense of common danger.</p>
+
+<p>Arms of all kinds were in urgent demand. Rifles and shot-guns, single
+and double-barreled, old and new; pistols of all designs, long and
+short, ancient and modern, together with some other unclassified
+implements of war, were brought out from their hiding-places, hastily
+cleaned and put <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span>in working order. Some of the men, when equipped for
+the march, were walking armories of miscellaneous weapons. The
+hardware stores were invaded in search of powder, shot, and ball. A
+gum blanket, with which in most cases an army blanket, or in default
+thereof, a pair of ordinary bed blankets, were rolled up; a haversack
+of canvas or oil-cloth, hastily put together at the saddler's, a tin
+cup, knife and fork and spoon, made up the rest of the equipment.</p>
+
+<p>But it was the composition of the forces which lent to them their
+chief dignity and formed their most notable feature. There was no
+volunteering by proxy. No one at all able to contemplate military
+service thought of stopping to suggest the duty of his neighbor. Each
+felt the personal application of the call, and even to doubt one's
+fitness for duty was to expose himself to suspicion. All claims of
+business, public or private responsibilities, or professional or
+official duty had to yield to the necessities of the hour. Every
+interest was alike threatened, and no balancing of individual excuses
+could for a moment be tolerated. The women nobly seconded the appeal
+to arms, and assisted in the work of preparation. Personal and social
+distinctions were levelled, and in response to roll-call there
+appeared the lawyer, the physician, the preacher, the magistrate, the
+banker, the merchant, the manufacturer, and the railway <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span>official in
+his multifarious forms, side by side with the humbler civilian&mdash;all
+animated with patriotic zeal in the common cause.</p>
+
+<p>Mayor McKnight, who subsequently himself joined a company named in his
+honor and commanded by Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, on the 11th sent
+William M. Baird, Esq., to Harrisburg to keep the home authorities
+informed as to the arrangements for the calling out and reception of
+the Reading militia. On the evening of the 12th, Mr. Baird telegraphed
+that the companies should hold themselves in readiness to march, and a
+little later communicated an order from headquarters to Captain
+Franklin S. Bickley, who was in charge of the first company organized,
+and the only one then ready, for his command to leave for Harrisburg
+the next morning by the first train.</p>
+
+<p>This company had its rendezvous in the second story of the building at
+the southwest corner of Fifth and Washington streets. Its roll
+originally contained 94 names, but the number of men who actually
+marched was but 64. Sergeant William H. Strickland was left behind to
+recruit the company up to the standard, and afterwards brought a few
+additional men to Chambersburg. The commanding officers were all of
+them men of some experience in military affairs, and proved themselves
+worthy of their positions. Captain Bickley had been a commissioned
+officer in the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span>Pennsylvania Reserves; First Lieutenant Lewis H.
+Wunder was a veteran of the Mexican War; and Second Lieutenant Charles
+H. Richards, though never in actual service, had had a long connection
+with the militia before the war. In the ranks of the company were a
+few old soldiers, who were generally to be recognized by the coolness
+of their bearing.</p>
+
+<p>At this point it will be appropriate to give the names of the seven
+companies which were raised in Reading, or its immediate vicinity, and
+left in response to the Governor's call, with the dates of marching
+and their regimental assignments. Several other companies were in
+course of organization in the city and county, but the emergency had
+passed before they were ready to respond to the call:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>Fifth Ward Guards, Captain F.S. Bickley, 70 men, Company G, 2d
+Regiment; September 13.</p>
+
+<p>Nicolls Guards, Captain Charles H. Hunter, 104 men, Company E, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.</p>
+
+<p>McKnight Guards, Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, 95 men, Company I, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.</p>
+
+<p>Liberty Fire Zouaves, Captain William Geiger, 70 men, Company G, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span>M'Lean Guards, Captain Samuel Harner, 45 men, Company H, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.</p>
+
+<p>Halleck Infantry, Captain Frederick S. Boas, 92 men, Company I, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.</p>
+
+<p>Berks County Cavalry, Captain Samuel L. Young, 67 men, Independent;
+September 17.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p>At a meeting of Captain Bickley's Company, held on the evening of the
+12th, the marching order was read, and it was directed that the
+company meet at the armory at 10 o'clock the next morning in readiness
+to leave. Its subsequent movements during the campaign are detailed in
+the journal which follows, and to which what has already preceded is
+but a necessary preliminary.</p>
+
+<br />
+<hr style="width: 15%;" />
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Saturday, September 13.</i> According to orders, the company met at the
+rendezvous at 10 o'clock A.M. equipped for the march. The morning had
+been busily occupied in getting ready for the departure. The
+leave-taking with our friends had not been unmingled with feelings of
+solemnity, in view of the possibility that we might never see them
+again. The day was fine, and a large crowd of people congregated in
+the streets to see us off. On Penn Square, in front of the Provost
+Marshal's office, at the old Bell mansion, the pavement was blocked,
+as it had been for several days past, with applicants for exemption
+from the draft. The <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span>medical examinations were then in progress. We
+marched to the lower depot, headed by a band, and accompanied by the
+crowd. The company itself was wholly unprovided with music of any
+sort. Left by the regular morning passenger train for Harrisburg. In
+another car there was also a militia company from Pottsville,
+commanded by Captain David A. Smith, which had left home the same
+morning. All the men were in good spirits. Some amusement was afforded
+by a comparison of our accoutrements. The majority of the company were
+unarmed, and the only insignia of a regular military organization were
+the swords and sashes of the officers. The news by the morning papers
+still continued exciting. The army was said to be preparing to engage
+the rebels in Maryland, as no time was to be lost in checking their
+advance.</p>
+
+<p>The trip was without incident. Arriving at Harrisburg at 1-&frac12; P.M., we
+were formed and marched to the State Capitol grounds. A scene of great
+activity was here presented. The people seemed everywhere to be
+flocking to arms. The Governor and the Adjutant-General were
+personally superintending the organization of the militia. Secretary
+Slifer and Colonel A.K. McClure were also actively engaged in the same
+work. We were much relieved to find that we were to be furnished with
+arms and equipments by the State, as our <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span>force was far from effective
+in its present shape. At the State Arsenal, on the Capitol grounds, we
+were supplied with Springfield muskets, knapsacks, haversacks, and
+canteens. Delivered up our old guns to be returned home. The muskets
+and bayonets, on first introduction, were handled with some curiosity.
+As there were no scabbards provided for the latter, the bayonets had
+to be carried fixed to the pieces. Of ammunition there was none on
+hand at present, but it was stated that a supply would be sent after
+us. Nothing was said about swearing us into service. The day was
+likely to be consumed in regimental organization, and it was probable
+we should not get off before the morrow. Some of our men had expected
+to meet the rebels before night. Fortunately for us, we still had some
+eighty miles the advantage of them.</p>
+
+<p>The first charge was upon our bags of provisions. My haversack had
+been bountifully stocked by my good landlady at home, Mrs. B., whose
+liberality as a provider and kindness of heart will always be held in
+grateful remembrance by her guests. The foresight of the Governor in
+mentioning in his proclamation the subject of rations, was generally
+commended, as little or nothing eatable seemed to be obtainable in
+this town since its occupation as a militia camp.</p>
+
+<p>Our company was assigned quarters on the east side of the Capitol
+grounds, upon the lawn in the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span>rear of the public buildings. Passed
+the afternoon in watching the arrival of several additional companies,
+strolling around the Park, and looking through the Capitol buildings.
+Several of us climbed the stairway to the dome. Another charge on the
+haversacks about 5 P.M. Began to wonder where or how we were to pass
+the night. Our efficient Quartermaster, L.M.; at length solved the
+problem. He procured a lot of shelter tents, which were distributed,
+and the work of setting them up commenced. A little straw was brought
+from somewhere and put in for a bottom. Took a stroll through the town
+in the evening with Messrs. G., E., S., and others, visiting the
+railroad depots, which were just then scenes of particular activity.
+Stopped on the way at a lager beer saloon, which powerfully recalled
+home associations. Returned to the grounds and answered to roll-call
+about 10 P.M. Crawled into a tent with Dr. B. and J.R.K. A regiment or
+two was encamped around us. No military rules were as yet promulgated,
+and it was very evident that none were to be observed that night.
+Chaos reigned supreme. Singing, speech-making, and practical jokes of
+all kinds filled in the hours usually devoted to sleep, while the
+arrival of fresh companies, from time to time, appeared to stimulate
+the orgies as the night advanced. Slept a couple of hours, and until 2
+A.M., when the general <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span>discomforts of the situation moved me to seek
+more desirable quarters. Reconnoitred the outskirts of the camp, and
+found a large covered coach just outside the grounds, which I got
+into, and having wrapped myself in my blanket, slept tolerably for
+several hours. The night was quite cool, and these new accommodations
+proved comfortable only by comparison. Got out at daylight, washed my
+face at a pump, answered to roll-call, and then consulted my bag of
+provisions. This first night's experience in "camp" suggests how few
+and simple are the wants of man in a military state.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Sunday, September 14.</i> Went down town with Dr. B. to look after
+something to replenish our depleted commissary stores. The Doctor was
+acquainted with a family named Feger, in Walnut Street, near the
+river, whose son was a student of medicine, and suggested a call. We
+accordingly visited them, and were kindly provided with a good meal
+and a quantity of cigars. The young student conducted us to a bakery,
+where we laid in a supply of crackers. Returned to camp. Our company
+had been attached to the Second Regiment of Militia, as Company "G."
+The Colonel was John L. Wright, of Columbia. There were ten companies,
+mostly full, from Columbia, West Chester, Reading, Pottsville, and
+Lancaster City <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span>and County. The First Regiment, commanded by Colonel
+Henry McCormick, and containing companies from Harrisburg,
+Philadelphia, and Chester and Lebanon counties, had already been sent
+off down the Cumberland Valley Railroad to Chambersburg. At 11 o'clock
+we received marching orders for the same place, and about 1-&frac12; P.M. the
+regiment proceeded out to near Camp Curtin and got aboard a train of
+freight cars, which had been provided with seats for the
+transportation of troops. A long delay, with the explanation of which
+we were not furnished, ensued; but about 3 the train started. A halt
+of an hour or more was made in town. A tremendous and enthusiastic
+crowd was out to see us off. Moved over the Long Bridge and stopped
+another half hour west of the Susquehanna. Chambersburg, our
+destination, was fifty-two miles distant. Passed successively through
+Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and Shippensburg, at each of which places
+short stops were made. Were struck with the great natural beauty of
+the Cumberland Valley region. Crowds of people came out to the
+stations to meet us, and black and white, old and young, all joined in
+the heartiest demonstrations of welcome. Were also greeted from the
+houses and roadsides all along the line by people waving their
+handkerchiefs and swinging their hats. At Mechanicsburg a whole girls'
+school was out to see us. This was a <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span>specially engaging sight to some
+of our number, who thought that that village would be a good place to
+camp. At Carlisle I met Mr. R.S., whom I knew. The <i>elite</i> of the town
+were at the station, and S. pointed out to me the leading beauties of
+the place&mdash;I mean the ladies. Soldiers of a day, we already began, in
+the midst of these inspiring scenes, to feel like real veterans.
+Between stops the men beguiled the time singing, jesting, smoking,
+etc., and every one was in the best possible humor. Private T.H.,
+among the rest, favored the company with a curious song in
+Pennsylvania Dutch called "Babbel Maul," which performance his
+delighted auditors compelled him frequently to repeat. It was
+generally agreed that the most desirable way of marching was by
+railroad. Dusk deepened into night, and at about 9 o'clock
+Chambersburg was reached. Proceeded a mile or two below the town, when
+the train halted in a wood brightly illuminated with camp-fires, and
+resonant with the cheers of soldiers. Disembarked and went into camp.
+Rigged the tents, built fires, mounted the large cooking kettles with
+which we had been furnished at Harrisburg, boiled coffee and got our
+supper&mdash;"grub" is the military term for it. No news of any account
+from Maryland. My two comrades of the night before and myself
+constructed a sort of crib with fence rails put up between adjoining
+trees, and, after a smoke, laid <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span>ourselves up in it to sleep. The
+arrangement worked well, and we slept comfortably in this rustic
+bedstead until 5 A.M.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Monday, September 15.</i> After roll-call wrote letters home, and
+carried some water for the cook. The latter, W.P.D., is a character in
+his way, and deserves mention. Under a rough exterior he carries a
+kindly heart. In his particular sphere, the importance of which we all
+recognize, he is somewhat of an autocrat. In the distribution of the
+eatables he is governed by the strictest principles of equity, and
+shows no favoritism. He is very often justly ruffled when his
+functions are usurped, or undue dictation is attempted on the part of
+those bearing higher official authority. He is specially incensed at
+times when stratagems are employed by the men to steal the sugar, over
+which latter article he finds it necessary to maintain a vigilant
+guard. We are now down to regular army fare, our bill consisting of
+rations of bread, meat, coffee, and that well-known item of camp
+necessaries called "hard tack," which is a host in itself, being made
+to go a great way by reason of the degree of mastication which it
+requires. There can be no complaint as to the strength of the coffee,
+since there is no milk to dilute it, but the color of the sugar might
+afford ground of exception on the part of the over-fastidious. Soups
+of rice, meat-bones, and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span>occasionally poultry, when there happen to
+be any hen-roosts in close proximity, make a substantial dinner.
+Soldiers' appetites are uniformly good, and little defects in the
+system of cookery are not ordinarily closely criticised. Tobacco, in
+all its forms, seems indispensable, by reason of the moral courage
+with which it is supposed to inspire alike the soldier and the
+civilian. This article is laid in by the men whenever and as often as
+occasion presents. In our great country it has all sections for its
+own. It is certain that the war is going to give an immense permanent
+stimulus to the consumption of this standard narcotic. Alcoholic
+beverages also are stored away in flasks against cases of emergency,
+which, in military affairs, as is well known, are of constant
+occurrence.</p>
+
+<p>During the morning we were gratified with the first sight of the
+enemy's paraphernalia, consisting of a train of captured baggage
+wagons, taken from Longstreet, and which were being driven in the
+direction of Harrisburg, whither, it is said, some hundred or more of
+prisoners from the same corps are being conducted. With a view of the
+latter we were not rewarded. The curiosity of the men to see a live
+rebel&mdash;in a <i>captured</i> condition&mdash;is very great. The wagons were
+guided by contra bands, who did not, however, look as if they belonged
+to the numerous class called "intelligent," who figure so largely as
+news-bearers in the army <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span>dispatches. The train, as well as the
+prisoners, was under the escort of the Anderson Cavalry, which was
+doing scout duty between the lines. A slight change in the position of
+our quarters was ordered during the day, and tents were struck about 4
+P.M. and the company marched about two miles further to the south,
+halting in a large stubble field west of the railroad, in a position
+which had been dignified by the title of "Camp McClure." Had an attack
+of my old adversary, the sick-headache, and was soon forced to
+surrender. Was very kindly waited upon by several of the men,
+especially P.E. and his brother D., who is a candidate at home for
+District Attorney, but not on that account any the less unselfish in
+his friendly offices on the present occasion. The former made me some
+tea from pennyroyal, gathered upon the ground, which shortly operated
+as an emetic. On a bed of blankets and straw, arranged by sympathetic
+hands, with my knapsack for a pillow, and the open vault of heaven for
+a canopy, I soon became, as is usual with sufferers from this severe
+complaint, utterly indifferent to surroundings. A good night's rest
+brought a happy relief.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Tuesday, September 16.</i> Part of the morning was devoted to foraging
+at the neighboring farmhouses, but little or nothing could be
+procured, the ground having already been pretty well covered <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span>by
+advance parties. Apples, however, were abundant, as there were many
+fine orchards in this vicinity. Was detailed to attend Dr. S., the
+Company Surgeon, who was sick, and had taken refuge in an adjoining
+wood, into which our quarters were presently moved. Here, under the
+direction of the Quartermaster, a sort of wigwam was constructed,
+built of fence-rails and cornstalks, and floored with straw. It was
+long enough to accommodate the entire company, and formed a very tight
+and really comfortable tenement. The Conococheague Creek ran within a
+few hundred yards of the camp, and the men had several good baths in
+it. Regiments were continually arriving from the railroad, and the
+shrieks of the steam-whistles, the blasts of bugles, clatter of drums,
+and the cheering of the troops enlivened the day. Among the accessions
+were the Blue Reserves, of Philadelphia, a uniformed organization,
+which made a handsome appearance. Before night there were said to be
+ten thousand men on the ground. A large force of militia was evidently
+intended to be concentrated at this point. Met a number of
+acquaintances among the new arrivals. Had several squad and company
+drills, and expected, from the arrangements we observed in progress,
+to remain some time in this situation. While out for exercise we could
+hear the noise of distant artillery proceeding from the direction of
+Sharpsburg and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span>Harper's Ferry. The anxiety increased to hear
+something from the army. Occasionally a newspaper, a day or two out of
+date, was brought in from the railroad, and its contents eagerly
+devoured. It was said that Hagerstown had been abandoned by the
+rebels, and that telegraph and railroad communication had been
+re-established with that point. Reports circulated, which were
+afterwards verified, that fighting had commenced between the corps of
+Generals Hooker and Reno and the rebels, and that General Reno had
+been killed. When the camp-fires were lighted, after nightfall, the
+woods resounded with martial music, song, and cheers, and the scene
+was a highly animating and inspiring one. Such sights are seldom
+witnessed, and are not to be soon forgotten. Before turning into our
+hut, seated myself on a bank a little distance apart from the rest, in
+company with my friend K., and we took a quiet smoke and talked of
+home, whither our thoughts continually turned. Enjoyed the best
+night's rest of the campaign, owing to the comfort of our quarters.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Wednesday, September 17.</i> Drilled in the morning in the adjoining
+fields, and while thus engaged observed a renewal of the reports of
+artillery towards the south, heard on the day previous, and with still
+greater distinctness. These proceeded, as we afterwards learned, from
+the battle-field of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span>Antietam, some thirty miles off. A dull gruff
+belch, at irregular intervals, accompanied by a sense of concussion,
+told the story of the distant conflict. This inspired strange and
+solemn feelings. Human lives were being offered up as a sacrifice upon
+the altar of our country, and thousands of homes would sit in dread
+suspense until it should be known upon whom the fatal blows had
+fallen. The result, too, was of great concern to us, who were mere
+auxiliaries in reserve against an untoward crisis. The evolutions now
+assumed a significance they had not heretofore possessed. Their object
+seemed no longer to be skill merely, but preparation. The zeal for
+duty was quickened, and it was the idea of responsibility which was
+uppermost in the minds of all. Additional regiments meanwhile arrived,
+among others two of the Gray Reserves and Home Guards of Philadelphia,
+which left Harrisburg yesterday. With drilling, guard mounting, and
+the usual routine of camp duties, the day wore slowly away. Another
+picturesque scene at night. After roll-call crawled again into our
+comfortable domicil of cornstalks, with every reason to expect another
+good night's sleep. This idea, however, was a grievous delusion, as
+the sequel will show.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Thursday, September 18.</i> About 11 o'clock last night the beating of
+the ominous long roll aroused <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span>us from our peaceful slumbers, and the
+word quickly passed that we had received marching orders for
+Hagerstown, and were to be ready to leave at 12. The accoutrements
+having been collected by the light of the fires, the regiment marched
+to the railroad, a mile off, where it was expected a train would be in
+waiting for us. Alas! we here received our first practical lesson of
+the great uncertainty of military movements, and the mechanical nature
+of the duties of the soldier, who must obey orders, simply, without
+inquiring for reasons. In the quality of civilians, which we could not
+altogether consent to drop, our sense of individual importance was
+frequently infringed upon in our new capacity. Each in his turn felt
+disposed to divide with his superiors the responsibility of the
+command. After waiting several hours in the crisp cool air of the
+autumn night, without any train appearing, we lost all patience and
+lay down on our blankets for temporary repose. As the dews of heaven
+gently distilled upon our unprotected forms, the memory of the
+comfortable quarters we had just left did not add to the feelings of
+reconciliation to our present miserable situation. Sundry imprecations
+were vented upon the unknown authority in charge of the department of
+transportation. Many went to sleep, from which they would be
+occasionally roused by the rapid passing of trains, but our own
+looked-for <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span>conveyance did not, nevertheless, arrive. Morning broke at
+length and breakfast was improvised by the cooks.</p>
+
+<p>We waited hour after hour for our train, but in vain. Wrote letters
+home beside the railroad track, on the ends of the sills. Various
+reports from the army were in circulation, respecting the result of
+the battle, and the movements of the enemy, subsequently found to be
+unreliable. After dinner had a battalion drill, and when all
+expectation of the train had been given up, between 3 and 4 o'clock it
+suddenly appeared. Cheers greeted its arrival. It consisted, like the
+one in which we had come down, of house cars adapted for the present
+purpose, and we boarded it just in time to escape a shower which began
+falling at this moment. Were off, at length, and after a short halt at
+Greencastle, where I laid in some provisions, arrived about 6 o'clock
+at Hagerstown, which we found occupied by a considerable militia force
+that had been pushed forward within the past two days. Were surprised
+to find the companies of Captains Hunter and Eisenhower, from Reading,
+already there, as they had started from home after we had. Were
+informed by them that they had left Harrisburg on Tuesday night, and
+arrived at Hagerstown on Wednesday morning. They had been attached to
+the 11th Regiment, to the command of which Charles A. Knoderer, a
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span>talented civil engineer of Reading, who went as a private of Captain
+Eisenhower's company, had been promoted. The regiment was encamped a
+short distance below town on the Williamsport pike. Heard more
+definite intelligence of the result of the great battle fought
+yesterday, which is claimed as a decided Union victory. Were informed
+of the death of Captain William H. Andrews, of the 128th Regiment, who
+fell in the battle, and also of its commander, Colonel Croasdale.
+Captain Andrews's body had already arrived in Hagerstown. Several
+other members of Reading companies had been killed.</p>
+
+<p>Our company was separated from the regiment and marched in the dusk of
+the evening into a narrow lane not far from the railroad depot, where
+we were told we were to pass the night. The ground was wet from the
+rain which had fallen, and a slight drizzle continuing, a most gloomy
+and uncomfortable aspect was imparted to the surroundings. The
+prospect for rest was extremely unpromising. There was nothing to lie
+upon except our gum blankets, and no better shelter than what could be
+improvised by stretching the tents&mdash;with which we were now temporarily
+provided&mdash;from the top of a fence to the ground. There appeared to be
+some confusion as to the arrangements for quarters, and we could not
+understand why a better situation had not been selected for <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span>the
+night's bivouac. After supper K. and myself went through the town to
+buy some lanterns and other things for the quartermaster. We were
+conducted by an old negro whom we picked up by the way, and obtained
+what we were in quest of, as well as a couple of bottles of good
+whiskey, procured at a grocery store, notwithstanding the fact that
+the town was under martial law, and the sale of liquor to soldiers had
+been prohibited.</p>
+
+<p>After having made a pretty thorough exploration of the place, we
+returned to quarters, where we found a sharp discussion going on as to
+the propriety of the Governor's sending us across the State line, the
+authority for which some of the men were disposed to question. The
+objection evidently proceeded from those who did not like our present
+proximity to the seat of war. The debate ended, however, in a tacit
+concurrence in the opinion of the majority that it was all right.
+Passed a miserable night in this uncomfortable situation. Slept but
+little, and caught a severe cold, from the effects of which I suffered
+for several weeks.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Friday, September 19.</i> Orders came about eight o'clock to go into
+camp at a place about a mile below town, on the Williamsport pike, and
+in the course of a couple of hours the scattered regiment had been
+collected and transferred to the point indicated. The spot was known
+as the old <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span>Washington County Agricultural Fair Ground, and but a few
+days previously had been occupied as a rebel camp. Its principal
+attraction was a large and fine spring of pure water. The 11th was in
+the same vicinity. Before the company moved from the lane, I had been
+detailed, with a squad, to go to a certain farm-house, about two miles
+out of town, for the purpose of impressing a team for the conveyance
+of the regimental luggage. Went to the place designated, but found
+that the farmer's wagons were already in service&mdash;at least he so
+informed us. Lieutenant William P. Brinton, of Company H, and myself
+then proceeded half a mile further upon the same errand, and found a
+man plowing in a field. Told him that we wanted his team, and he
+complied without protest. I rode one of the horses to his house, and
+during this time heard some pretty heavy artillery discharges in the
+direction of the Potomac, or rather to the eastward, apparently about
+six or eight miles off. This was occasioned, as it was afterwards
+developed, by the escape of the main body of the rebel army across the
+river, below Williamsport, under a fire from detachments of
+McClellan's forces. After we had been kindly treated to a good lunch
+by the farmer, the team was conducted off in the charge of the
+lieutenant, while I took the nearest course to the farm-house first
+visited, to bring back some men who had been left there. Finding that
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span>they had already gone, I walked into Hagerstown, where I had some
+difficulty in ascertaining the whereabouts of our regiment, the
+marching orders having been executed during my absence. Took the
+opportunity to reconnoitre through the town for the purpose of laying
+in some provisions. The great frequency with which that occupation is
+noted in this narrative need excite no undue wonder, since, as we were
+nearly always eating, our private supplies were in a continually
+deplenished state. Hagerstown is an antiquated looking place, and is,
+at the present time, the seat of unusual activity, owing to its
+proximity to the centre of military operations. The population was
+said to be about equally divided in its political sympathies. It had
+been held alternately by both sides, so that everybody had had in turn
+an opportunity of "giving aid and comfort to the enemy." At the
+present it was transformed, for the time being, into a vast hospital,
+many of its public buildings being occupied for this purpose. Governor
+Curtin was here looking after the welfare of the Pennsylvania troops.
+By the Williamsport pike, a number of our wounded soldiers were still
+being brought in from the battle-field, a distance of ten miles. The
+sight of these sufferers was touching. Some were in ambulances, while
+others lay in the bottoms of ordinary farm wagons, with little or no
+shelter from the hot sun. Their wounds had been dressed, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span>and the
+heroic courage which they manifested was something inspiring to
+witness. Many bodies of the dead had been sent in for transportation.
+In a wheelwright shop to which my attention was attracted, I saw the
+lifeless forms of two officers in uniform&mdash;a major and a
+lieutenant&mdash;awaiting boxing. The faces were ghastly, and I turned from
+them with a feeling of pain as I thought of the hearts that even now,
+perhaps, were being torn with grief in the distant homes. These sights
+were realities, not pictures, and gave me a more vivid idea of the
+horrors of war than the most graphic pen descriptions I had ever read.
+Alas! I thought, to what extent is this slaughter to go on, and when
+will the sacrifice for patriotism's sake be complete?</p>
+
+<p>Came up with the camp at length, and found the men engaged in clearing
+the ground and pitching the tents, which work was continued until
+dinner time. Toward the middle of the afternoon, great interest began
+to centre upon the road, occasioned by the frequent and furious
+galloping up and down of cavalry pickets and aids, and the report
+spread that a considerable body of rebels was advancing up the pike in
+the direction of Hagerstown. The long roll was beat, and the command
+to fall in was given. We were now supplied with sixty rounds of
+ammunition per man&mdash;the first that we had received&mdash;and loaded our
+guns, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span>which looked like business. In default of the usual appliances
+for that purpose, the cartridges were deposited in our overcoat
+pockets. Thus ballasted, we were marched down the road about a mile
+and a-half, and halted at a point where detached lines of battle were
+being formed. Our regiment was deployed in two ranks to the left of
+the great road, in a ploughed field, on rising ground, and was in the
+front line. The Gray and Blue Reserves of Philadelphia, supported by a
+battery, constituted a portion of the right wing on the other side of
+the road, and the Maryland Brigade, a uniformed body of three years'
+men, five thousand strong, commanded by General Kenley, were posted on
+our extreme left. A regiment of skirmishers were in a wood a little in
+advance of the brigade. Some twelve or fifteen thousand men were thus
+concentrated in several lines, and the whole force was so disposed as
+to afford a converging fire upon the road. Major-General John F.
+Reynolds, who we learned was in command, had his headquarters on a
+hill, to the right of the road, where the colors were planted, and at
+which point aids were observed to be constantly reporting.</p>
+
+<p>Things now began to wear a serious appearance. A number of farmers
+were noticed removing their household goods from our front, towards
+Hagerstown, by the road. They were evidently alarmed, and expected a
+battle. It was also remarked that <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span>portions of the fences along the
+pike had been torn down, and the rails piled up at different points in
+the road, by way of obstructions against the advance of an opposing
+force. We stood at a rest in the line, with guns half-cocked and
+bayonets fixed, momentarily awaiting the appearance of the foe. An
+incident occurred at this juncture which, though trifling, drew the
+attention of the entire force for the time being. The report of a
+musket was heard in the woods where the skirmishers were, followed by
+a loud shriek and audible groans. It was at once surmised that one of
+the militiamen had been accidentally shot. Presently, a crowd was
+observed conducting a man up the road toward the town, and it was then
+explained that this person was subject to attacks of mania-a-potu, and
+that the excitement of the moment had made him crazy. The occurrence
+could not but be suggestive of a similar catastrophe to the reason of
+some others of the force, who were just then exposed to the like
+danger.</p>
+
+<p>Our Colonel next rode along in front of the regiment, observing to us
+that we must not mind if we found a little hail coming over in our
+direction soon. The preparations were now complete, and the decisive
+moment seemed to be rapidly approaching. But&mdash;tamely enough to
+relate&mdash;hours were passed in the same situation without any further
+developments whatever. Meanwhile the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span>beautiful autumnal afternoon
+wore gradually away, and the sun went down behind the Cumberland
+Mountains, throwing a flood of golden light over the really
+picturesque landscape. Virgil's charming line involuntarily crossed my
+mind:&mdash;</p>
+
+<h4>"Sol ruit interea, et montes umbrantur opaci."</h4>
+
+<p>The singular beauty of the scene, and the absorbing interest of the
+situation, with its profound and alternating emotions of hope and
+apprehension, painted a picture upon the memory which time can never
+obliterate. Dusk thickened into night, and we remained in a standing
+posture until nine o'clock, when we were permitted to rest our pieces
+upon the ground and stealthily eat our rations. Some neighboring
+grain-stacks were invaded, and a few sheaves brought, which we unbound
+and strewed along the clods. Upon these we were at length allowed to
+lie down to rest&mdash;not to sleep&mdash;still grasping our cocked pieces, and
+ready for an instant alarm. About one o'clock the report was
+circulated, which proved to be the fact, that the forces of McClellan
+had driven the enemy across the Potomac into Virginia; but it was
+stated that some detached bodies of the latter had been cut off, and
+that the services of the militia were desired in order to capture
+them. The proposition was discussed&mdash;a debate being admissible under
+the peculiar circumstances, since it will <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span>be remembered we were not
+sworn into service&mdash;and it was resolved that we would go as far as the
+Potomac. Before we could move, however, the order was countermanded,
+and the summons was now suspected to be a stratagem to test our
+mettle. But contemporaneous events justify the conclusion that it was
+otherwise, and that no ruse was designed to be attempted in this
+affair, at the expense of the gallantry of Pennsylvania's home
+defenders.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Saturday, September 20.</i> At daylight we were allowed to break ranks
+and stack our arms. No very definite information could be obtained
+during the morning as to the probable developments of the day, but, so
+far as appearances indicated, the situation of affairs was unchanged.</p>
+
+<p>While in our present position I cannot restrain a feeling of
+admiration for the earnestness of many of the members of our
+organization. Among them are some of Reading's most considerable
+citizens, men who occupy important stations, and carry weighty
+responsibilities. Strange figures, indeed, they make here, in far-off
+Maryland, resting upon their arms, and keeping watch for the invading
+foe. Could their loved ones see them at this moment, what moral heroes
+would they appear in their eyes! I could not help observing how
+strikingly the predominant characteristics of men are developed in
+critical emergencies. In our mutual concern for <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span>the common safety, it
+is in the strongest characters that we feel our chief reliance is to
+be placed. Those who have the fairest reputations at stake, display
+the greatest degree of firmness, and <i>vice versa</i>. This criterion, it
+is evident, will hold good when the severest test shall be applied.
+H.V.R., a member of the Bar, cares little for the details of military
+discipline, but is a model of fidelity to the idea of duty, as is also
+his brother J., who is a layman. Dr. M., a bank officer, is
+punctuality itself, probably from long force of habit, and shrinks
+from no service, even the humblest. His former connection with
+military companies makes him a highly intelligent soldier. Mr. G.,
+also a lawyer&mdash;I waive the military titles&mdash;moves cautiously,
+deliberates and debates, but perseveres. As a gigantic shooting
+excursion he is probably best reconciled to the present expedition,
+and since we have now secured our ammunition, is doubtless anxious to
+sight the game. L.B., a merchant, is a model civilian, and a man of
+recognized high character. He has left home with a purpose, which he
+will stand to, come what may. D.E., the candidate for office to whom I
+have before referred, was never born to be a willing subject of rules
+in any sphere of life, and makes an erratic soldier. He has become
+tired of the slow progress we have been making toward the
+battle-field, which, in a spectacular sense, he is impatient to look
+upon. <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span>J.W.B., a light-hearted old time captain of a troop of horse,
+is true game; and the same may be said of our Quartermaster, L.M., who
+keeps the command in good humor by the jokes which he is constantly
+bandying with the Captain. J.K.S., printer, is remarkable for his
+intelligence as to the object of those military man&oelig;uvres which the
+rest of us regard as inexplicable. J.P. is a sturdy fellow, of clear
+grit, who would be a good neighbor in a perilous moment. B.O. is a
+serious man, distinguished for the quiet regularity of his bearing and
+steadiness of his movements. Not so Dr. B., a waggish apothecary,
+whose skill as a forager I have all along had occasion to mark, and
+who seems, when an advance is made, to be at all points of the camp at
+the same time. J.H.F., an ex-country justice of the peace, enjoys the
+distinction of being the only man in the company in regimentals,
+having donned a uniform made for him some years ago, when he was
+orderly sergeant of a company which belonged to the Kutztown
+battalion. His avoirdupois has greatly increased since the garments
+were made, and his harness is so tight that he finds marching very
+uncomfortable. He stands upright a large part of the time from force
+of circumstances, and sits down with caution. Our orderly, J.G.S., a
+harum-scarum young attorney, is a singular mixture of discipline and
+drollery. Lieutenant R. is an exceedingly modest <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span>man, who is not
+without knowledge and merit as an officer. Lieutenant W. is an old
+soldier, of quick eye and firm bearing. The utmost reliance can be
+placed in his intelligence and courage. Private K., bank teller,
+before mentioned, and myself, though separated in the ranks by reason
+of a difference in inches, have taken a liking to each other, and have
+formed a solemn league of mutual assistance when matters come to the
+worst. As he is armed with a pistol and a dirk, in addition to his
+musket, I feel that the advantage of the covenant is largely on my
+side.</p>
+
+<p>At 4 P.M. artillery firing was renewed in our front, and an hour or so
+later the long roll was again beat all along the line, and the command
+to fall in was given. A forward movement down the road had been
+ordered. The intelligence had been brought in that a body of the
+rebels had recrossed the river at Williamsport, and the subsequent
+official dispatches explained that this force was a detachment of
+Lee's cavalry under Stuart, with a regiment of infantry and some
+pieces of artillery, whose evident design was a raid upon Hagerstown,
+where a large quantity of military stores had been received for
+McClellan's army. General Couch's division had been sent up to drive
+him back, and it was the exchange of compliments between the two which
+we now heard, though of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span>this explanation we were for the time being
+ignorant.</p>
+
+<p>In the march down the road, the cavalry took the advance, and were
+followed by the Maryland Brigade. The militia then closed in, and the
+successive lines gradually dissolved into a single column. The
+musicians were sent to the rear. After proceeding half a mile or so,
+the column was halted, and came to a rest in the road, in which
+position it remained for an hour or more. By this time it was dusk,
+and the artillery discharges in the front had become really
+formidable. The firing was principally from the rebel guns. Signal
+rockets now and then illuminated the sky, and a brilliant panorama was
+presented to the view, the complexion of which was decidedly warlike.
+Aids galloped up and down the column at a rattling pace, and things
+rapidly assumed an air of confusion. I draw a veil over the scenes
+presented at this juncture among a portion of the reserves of General
+Reynolds. It would take a better soldier than myself to tell what
+would have been the result of a serious collision at this moment, to
+the body of this force, whose chief misfortune was that it was
+entirely undisciplined. The plan agreed on was to receive the
+advancing enemy with the bayonet, in case a fire should be found
+ineffectual to check his progress. Many of our comrades made leagues
+with each other, offensive and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span>defensive, and examples of coolness
+and determination inspired confidence in the main body of the men,
+who, I am satisfied, would have followed orders and done their duty.</p>
+
+<p>The firing presently ceased, and from some mounted officers the
+intelligence was communicated that General Couch's division was now
+immediately upon our front, and that our pickets were in
+correspondence with his. At about eight o'clock we were ordered to
+quarters in a stubble-field alongside the road, having been previously
+cautioned by the Colonel not to build large fires, which injunction,
+it is unnecessary to state, was faithfully obeyed. The roll was called
+by the orderly, and the guards posted for the night. Did guard duty
+from eight to ten, and from three to five. During the night, as the
+sequel showed, the enemy, finding their design anticipated, and
+perceiving the preparations on all sides to intercept them of so
+thorough a character, abandoned their project on Hagerstown, and,
+under the cover of darkness, quietly recrossed the Potomac, and
+escaped safely into Virginia&mdash;horse, foot, and dragoons! Thus
+virtually ended the militia campaign in Maryland.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Sunday, September 21.</i> Moved our camp into a very desirable location
+in the adjoining woods recently occupied by our skirmishers. As it
+was <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span>now generally understood that all immediate danger was at an end,
+signs of the relaxation of military discipline began to appear, and we
+returned to the easy habits which had characterized our band of
+civilian soldiery before it arrived in the vicinity of the late scene
+of conflict between the hostile armies. The tents were leisurely put
+up, and, the strain of the past two days being taken off, we prepared
+to spend a pleasant day of rest in the cool shade of the woods. Some
+of the members of an adjoining regiment began a promiscuous firing of
+their pieces, which it was said came very nearly drawing down the fire
+of General Couch's guns upon our peaceful camp, it being supposed for
+the time being that some straggling bands of the enemy might still be
+lurking in the neighborhood. The chaplain of the regiment held
+religious services, while some of the men stretched themselves under
+the trees, and others made haste to write letters home, giving
+accounts of the perilous scenes through which they had passed. These
+missives, as it turned out, they had the gratification of delivering
+in person. The Quartermaster, with his accustomed forethought, had
+made a requisition before daylight on a neighboring hen-roost, and
+preparations for serving dinner had already been begun, when, at
+eleven o'clock, marching orders for Greencastle, Pa., arrived. This
+was an agreeable surprise, as it suggested a homeward journey. <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span>The
+authorities evidently regarded the emergency for which we had been
+called out as at an end, and since this fact was assumed, a longer
+sojourn in Maryland appeared undesirable.</p>
+
+<p>We now packed up our traps and moved up to our former camping ground
+at the Agricultural Park, near Hagerstown, where the interrupted
+dinner of rice soup and chicken was most thoroughly appreciated. At
+two P.M. the regiment started off in light marching order, the baggage
+wagons following. We now took leave of the 11th, a portion of whom had
+been making themselves useful that morning in the town in unloading
+the military stores that had been sent here by rail for the army. As
+we passed through the streets, we put on our best appearance, the men
+struck up a song, and we were cheeringly greeted by the population.
+Reaching the open country, we marched at random. The afternoon was
+warm and the roads exceedingly dusty. About dusk, the line between
+Maryland and Pennsylvania was crossed, and three hearty cheers were
+given for the Keystone State. Stopped half an hour in the little
+village called Middleburg, or "State Line," at which point the
+Anderson Cavalry passed us on their way to Carlisle, raising a
+suffocating dust. At dark the march was resumed, and having proceeded
+a short distance, we were ordered to discharge our muskets, which had
+been loaded for the rebels. This made a continuous <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span>blaze of light
+along the whole line. Some of the men charged and fired again, to keep
+up the sport, but the Colonel put a stop to this. The road grew
+rougher as we advanced, and many of our comrades now and again
+stumbled and fell in the darkness. After having marched twelve miles,
+and arrived within some three miles of Greencastle, we were halted
+about half-past eight o'clock, and went into camp in the woods. Sleep
+came without courting. I had never before felt its influence so
+insinuating, so benumbing, so irresistible!</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Monday, September 22.</i> The teams being now dismissed, each man
+shouldered his own luggage, and the march was resumed at eight
+o'clock. At Greencastle we found an encampment designated as "Camp
+M'Cormick," containing several thousand militia, which had not
+proceeded further south than this point, having been among the later
+organizations. With these was the 20th Regiment, containing the
+companies of Captains Boas, Geiger, and Harner, from Reading, with
+whom we exchanged friendly greetings as we passed. About a mile above
+Greencastle we were halted in a wood, and after considerable
+man&oelig;uvring, the import of which we could not understand, and, being
+very tired, could not appreciate, we stacked arms and unslung
+knapsacks. Here we were rejoined by several of our men who had been
+down <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span>the day before to visit the battle-field, having been fortunate
+enough to secure passes from the military authorities for that
+purpose. They gave terrible descriptions of the scenes which they had
+witnessed, and exhibited a number of relics which they had brought
+away. It was understood that the parley at this juncture was with
+reference to the arrangements for transportation, a subject which, as
+usual, appeared to be involved in much intricacy. The period of our
+stay in this situation was therefore uncertain, and after dinner had
+been served, the remainder of the day was given up to relaxation and
+amusement. Under the latter head came in performances of
+blanket-tossing and elephant parades&mdash;tricks which most of us had
+never seen before, but which we learned were well known among old
+soldiers. The Sancho Panza of this occasion was a small boy, picked up
+by the Lancaster Company, and I dare say that, from the energy and
+perseverance with which the sport was conducted, the unfortunate lad
+got more of it than he bargained for. This company had among their
+number a comical genius named Gable, irreverently dubbed the
+"Chaplain," whose sallies afforded a never-ending source of amusement
+to his comrades, as well as to some of the field and staff officers,
+who frequently formed a portion of his admiring auditory. Most of the
+Chaplain's wit on this, as on other occasions, was of a character
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span>that would have far removed it from the test of refined criticism.
+Mirth and song filled in the waning hours of the day, and, all
+restraints being removed, the night was given up to general hilarity.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Tuesday, September 23.</i> Were aroused at 2 A.M. by the receipt of
+orders to proceed to the railroad, half a mile away, for
+transportation. Again we were the victims of an unfortunate bungle in
+the railway arrangements. The train which had been intended for our
+accommodation was appropriated by another regiment, whose triumphant
+departure up the valley we had the satisfaction of witnessing. Several
+other trains passed, and at daylight we were still in <i>statu quo</i>,
+worn out with fatigue, and vexed with disappointment. The entire day
+was passed in the same situation, and to add to our discomfiture, the
+rations had given out and the neighborhood was unpromising for forage
+of any kind. Was assigned for guard duty the ensuing night from ten to
+twelve, when lo! at about eleven, after the long expected event had
+ceased to be anticipated, it came to pass suddenly. The screech of a
+steam-whistle was heard alongside of us, which announced that our
+train was at last on hand. After the usual preparatory bustle, we were
+safely loaded up, and were presently whizzing off at a good speed
+toward Chambersburg. The dim light of the lanterns tied to the rods
+at <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span>the top of the cars, threw a gloomy air over the sleeping freight
+which they contained. At one o'clock a halt of an hour was made at
+Chambersburg, and by daylight Shippensburg was reached.</p>
+
+<br />
+
+<p><i>Wednesday, September 24.</i> At Carlisle another stop of half an hour.
+The morning was clear and bright, and the men in the most cheerful
+spirits. We arrived at Harrisburg at eleven o'clock, and were marched
+at once to the Capitol grounds, where we turned over our arms and
+accoutrements at the Arsenal. In company with K., I went to the United
+States Hotel, where we got a good dinner. I am inclined to think the
+landlord did not clear much on the meal which we laid in on that
+occasion. At 1.45 P.M. the company took the regular afternoon
+passenger train for Reading, our Pottsville friends being again with
+us. Reached home at 4.15, and found a concourse of citizens assembled
+at the depot with a band of music to receive us. After a short street
+parade, by way of exhibition, I presume, of the State's gallant
+defenders, we filed into our old mustering place, at Fifth and
+Washington Streets, where, with loud and hearty cheers for everybody
+concerned, we were dismissed, and thus our brief but memorable militia
+campaign of eleven days peacefully ended.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span>The company of Captain Bickley, which had been the first to leave
+Reading, was also the first to reach home. On the day it arrived, a
+proclamation was issued by Governor Curtin, discharging the militia,
+with his grateful acknowledgments in the name of the State, and
+commending their bravery in passing the borders, although not required
+to do so by the terms of the call, holding Hagerstown against an
+advancing foe, and resisting the threatened movement of the rebels
+upon Williamsport until the United States troops arrived and relieved
+them. This timely and heroic action, the Governor said, saved the
+State from the tread of the invading enemy. He recommended that the
+militia organizations be preserved and perfected&mdash;a suggestion which
+was not generally followed.</p>
+
+<p>The only sad feature of the campaign was the dreadful accident which
+befel the company of Captain Boas, from Reading, of the 20th Regiment,
+on the Cumberland Valley Railroad, near Harrisburg, at an early hour
+on the morning of Friday, the 26th of September. The train on which
+they were returning collided with one going in the opposite direction,
+and four members of the company were killed and some thirty injured.</p>
+
+<p>General McClellan thanked Governor Curtin for the timely aid of the
+State militia, and the moral support thus rendered to the army.
+Governor Bradford, of Maryland, made a similar <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span>acknowledgment. Nearly
+fifty thousand Pennsylvania militia responded to the original call,
+about one-half of whom were in actual service on the border. The
+following year they were compensated by the State, the Legislature
+having made an appropriation for that purpose, allowing fifteen days'
+pay to each man, at the rate prescribed by Act of Congress for the
+payment of the regulars and volunteers in the United States service.</p>
+
+<br />
+<hr />
+<br />
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the
+war of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the war
+of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Eleven days in the militia during the war of the rebellion
+       A journal of the 'Emergency' campaign of 1862
+
+Author: A Militiaman
+
+Release Date: April 12, 2010 [EBook #31969]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Jeannie Howse and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+    ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA
+
+    DURING THE
+
+    WAR OF THE REBELLION;
+
+    BEING
+
+    A JOURNAL OF THE "EMERGENCY" CAMPAIGN
+    OF 1862.
+
+    BY A MILITIAMAN.
+
+    [Illustration]
+
+    COLLINS, PRINTER, PHILADELPHIA.
+    1883.
+
+
+
+
+    Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1883, by
+    THE COLLINS PRINTING HOUSE,
+    in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION.
+
+
+Twenty years have passed away since a band of hastily-gathered
+minute-men left their homes to defend the soil of Pennsylvania from
+the first threatened invasion of the State by the rebel army under
+General R.E. Lee. Viewed through the lapse of this long period,
+crowded as it has been with so many momentous events in the life of
+the nation, the incidents of that brief and comparatively unimportant
+campaign begin, nevertheless, from their increasing remoteness, to
+take upon themselves a degree of historic interest. In respect to both
+their significance and their adventure, they greatly exceed the
+occurrences which attended the march of the celebrated Advance Light
+Brigade to the defence of Philadelphia in the war of 1812-14, in which
+latter body of citizen soldiery the county of Berks had the honor to
+be liberally represented.
+
+With many of the participants in the movements of September, 1862,
+that minor undertaking comprises the sum total of their personal
+experience of military service during the entire ordeal of our
+country's conflict. To them, therefore, the memories of that period of
+excitement and alarm are invested with a peculiar interest--a
+sentiment which must to a degree continue to be shared by their
+descendants. In the belief that a narration of its details may serve
+to rekindle in the breasts of his surviving companions something of
+the enthusiasm which they originally inspired, the writer has been
+encouraged, after the lapse of nearly a generation, to undertake the
+pleasing and congenial task.
+
+Fidelity to fact is at the least claimed for the present performance,
+which, devoid as it is of literary pretensions, may nevertheless be
+deemed not unworthy of an humble place among the contributions to the
+history of a stirring epoch in the annals of our good old Commonwealth
+at the trying period of the nation's struggle. The basis of the
+narrative is a personal journal of the service to which it refers,
+kept at the time it transpired, the entries in which were dictated by
+the feelings and impressions of the moment. These impressions, it is
+to be remembered, were those of a simple civilian--one who felt little
+interest in the details of military service apart from the cause in
+which it is undertaken. Yet the relation may, from this very fact,
+commend itself the more to the friendly regard of his comrades, most
+of whom were at that period equally inexperienced in the proper
+discipline of the soldier. On the other hand, should it attract the
+notice of the veteran, it will doubtless serve to amuse him by
+comparison with his own experience amidst the greater perils of
+"grim-visaged war," which he is even yet so pardonably fond of
+recounting.
+
+From what has been already advanced, it will be unnecessary to place
+any special emphasis upon the disclaimer which it nevertheless remains
+to make, that any possible object of applause is sought to be
+associated with the expedition which it is purposed to record. Very
+distinctly is the impression made at the time in the mind of the
+writer, preserved to the present, that in promptly proceeding to the
+scene of danger, the Pennsylvania militia were confronted with a more
+urgent incentive than that which animated the legions of brave men who
+had already gone forth to face the enemy on the distant battle-fields
+of the South. Our homes were threatened--the horrors of desolating war
+seemed likely to be brought to our very doors. The instinct of
+self-preservation effectually appealed to even the most unpatriotic
+hearts. No other honorable alternative was left but to go out to meet
+the hostile invader. Alarms often repeated, by night and by day,
+suggested the imminence of the danger. Others, with a more deliberate
+devotion to their country's cause, had volunteered for long periods of
+service. To fail to rally for the protection of our own firesides,
+with all their consecrated associations, would have been unworthy of
+the very lowest requirements of patriotism. The most abiding sentiment
+of those who were called to no severer military duty than the militia
+campaign of 1862, or that of the following year, must always be a
+heartfelt appreciation of, and gratitude for, the services of the
+brave veterans of the War of the Rebellion, to whose heroic deeds we
+are indebted for the preservation of our liberties, and the blessings
+of a reunited country.
+
+But, justice to the minute-men of 1862 requires it to be said that,
+although in the light of subsequent events, the achievements of their
+brief campaign seem to sink into such comparative insignificance--so
+marked indeed that the very narration of them appears to savor more of
+humor than of valor--there were among their number multitudes who were
+animated by as warm a patriotism as that which burned in the breasts
+of their gallant comrades then already at the front--who were as ready
+as they to lay down their lives in defence of the dearest interests of
+freemen, and who, had the occasion presented itself, would have done
+equal honor to their country's service. It is not to be forgotten,
+moreover, that at the crisis when they marched to the rescue of the
+State, it could not be foreseen what was to be the issue of their
+mission, or how great the sacrifice which they might be called upon to
+make. It was cause for lasting gratification with them that their very
+presence upon the borders at the juncture when they appeared, and in
+the numbers in which they came, greatly contributed to encourage their
+brethren who were then passing through the heat and fire of the
+conflict, as well as to deter the progress of the invading foe. Raw
+and undisciplined as they undoubtedly were, who can now say that their
+prompt rendezvous at the centre of military operations did not
+signally aid the successful efforts of the army to turn backward the
+march of the enemy after the terrific shock which he received on the
+memorable field of Antietam?
+
+                                                             L.R.
+
+  READING, September, 1882.
+
+
+
+
+ELEVEN DAYS IN THE MILITIA.
+
+
+After the reverses to our arms at the disastrous battles of the Second
+Bull Run and Centreville, in the latter part of August, 1862, and the
+retrograde movements of the Union forces in Virginia in consequence,
+the purpose of the enemy to follow up his advantage by endeavoring to
+take the Capital, invade the Middle States, and thus strike terror
+into the hearts of the people of the North, became immediately
+apparent. In the early part of September, war meetings were being held
+in Pennsylvania to raise the quota of the State in lieu of the draft
+then impending, in pursuance of the requisition of the President of
+the United States for three hundred thousand men. The Reserves had
+been called away to succor the hard-pressed army of McClellan, and the
+borders were left wholly unprotected at the inviting season of
+harvest. As a measure of precaution against the impending danger,
+Governor Curtin on the 4th of September issued a proclamation
+recommending the immediate formation of volunteer companies
+throughout the State, in conformity with existing militia laws, for
+home defence, and suggesting the closing of all places of business at
+3 o'clock P.M. daily, in order to afford due opportunity for drill and
+preparation. On the next day, Mayor David McKnight of Reading, who was
+acting in that capacity in the place of Mayor Joel B. Wanner, then in
+the field as Major of the 128th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers,
+also issued a manifesto, in pursuance of the spirit of the Governor's
+proclamation, requiring the assemblage of the citizens at certain
+places designated within their respective wards, for the organization
+of companies, and also the holding of daily drills from 4 to 6 P.M.
+
+On the 5th, the rebel army under General Lee, comprising a force
+estimated at eighty thousand infantry, eight thousand cavalry, and one
+hundred and fifty pieces of artillery, crossed the Potomac at or near
+the Point of Rocks, and entered Frederick. Among its division
+commanders were Magruder, Walker, Anderson, A.P. Hill, Stuart,
+Longstreet, Ewell, and Stonewall Jackson. With the occupation of
+Maryland, matters reached an alarming crisis, and the imminent danger
+to Pennsylvania became at once evident. The boldness and celerity of
+the enemy's movements suggested the necessity for prompt action on the
+part of the State authorities. On the 10th of September, the
+Governor, acting under the direction of the President of the United
+States, issued another proclamation, as Commander-in-Chief of the
+militia, designated as General Order No. 35, calling on all the
+able-bodied men of the State to organize for its defence, and be ready
+to march to Harrisburg at an hour's notice, subject to his order. The
+companies were directed to be filled in accordance with the army
+standards of the United States, and as it was stated that the call
+might be sudden, the officers and men were required to provide
+themselves with the best arms they could procure, with at least sixty
+rounds of suitable ammunition, good stout clothing, uniform or
+otherwise; boots, blankets, and haversacks. The order further
+stipulated that the organizations would be held in service for such
+time only as the pressing emergency for the State defence might
+continue.
+
+On the morning of the 11th, the rebel cavalry under Stuart entered
+Hagerstown, the southern terminus of the Cumberland Valley Railroad,
+six miles from the Pennsylvania line, the main body being about
+two-and-a-half miles behind, at Funkstown. The army of McClellan had
+in the meantime advanced to Poolesville. As soon as this intelligence
+reached Harrisburg, the Governor at 4 o'clock on the afternoon of that
+day issued General Order No. 36, calling into immediate service fifty
+thousand of the freemen of Pennsylvania, under the terms of the
+proclamation of the previous day, to repel the rebel invasion.
+
+Immediately after the publication of the proclamation of Wednesday,
+September 10th, the work of forming militia companies in Reading was
+begun in earnest, the efforts that had been previously made in that
+direction not having been attended with much practical result. In the
+evening, the court-house bell was rung, and the building was rapidly
+filled. Mayor McKnight presided over the meeting. Dispatches were read
+indicating the approach of the enemy to the borders, and resolutions
+were adopted to organize companies forthwith in each of the wards.
+Many went directly from the meeting to the different places of
+rendezvous, and enrolled themselves for the State defence. There was
+not at the time a single full military company in Reading, all the
+troops enlisted for stated terms of service having already gone to the
+front. The night was one of much activity and excitement. Drilling was
+done in Penn Square to the inspiring accompaniment of fife and drum,
+which gave the town a decidedly warlike appearance. This exercise was
+continued daily and nightly until the militia had marched, and at no
+period during the entire war did the military enthusiasm of the people
+reach a greater height.
+
+In the instruction of the troops, the manual of arms had to be
+omitted, for there were no guns. Officers had been hastily selected,
+and the commands in most cases given to experienced soldiers, whose
+services were in sudden and great demand. The fidelity of the men was
+accepted without any suggestion of the test of an oath. The companies
+recruited rapidly, and were not long in filling up to the standard.
+Their evolutions, which were conducted to a large extent in the open
+square, under the cover of darkness, were at times edifying to
+witness. As the battalions marched with sturdy tread up and down on
+either side of the central market-houses, collisions would now and
+then derange the symmetry of the forces. Frequent resort to unmilitary
+language on the part of the commanders was necessary to bring up the
+laggard platoons, and movements were habitually executed for which no
+precedent could have been found in either Scott or Hardee. But it was
+patriotism and not tactics that was uppermost in the minds of all, and
+trifling imperfections of military discipline were, for the moment at
+least, sunk out of sight in the sense of common danger.
+
+Arms of all kinds were in urgent demand. Rifles and shot-guns, single
+and double-barreled, old and new; pistols of all designs, long and
+short, ancient and modern, together with some other unclassified
+implements of war, were brought out from their hiding-places, hastily
+cleaned and put in working order. Some of the men, when equipped for
+the march, were walking armories of miscellaneous weapons. The
+hardware stores were invaded in search of powder, shot, and ball. A
+gum blanket, with which in most cases an army blanket, or in default
+thereof, a pair of ordinary bed blankets, were rolled up; a haversack
+of canvas or oil-cloth, hastily put together at the saddler's, a tin
+cup, knife and fork and spoon, made up the rest of the equipment.
+
+But it was the composition of the forces which lent to them their
+chief dignity and formed their most notable feature. There was no
+volunteering by proxy. No one at all able to contemplate military
+service thought of stopping to suggest the duty of his neighbor. Each
+felt the personal application of the call, and even to doubt one's
+fitness for duty was to expose himself to suspicion. All claims of
+business, public or private responsibilities, or professional or
+official duty had to yield to the necessities of the hour. Every
+interest was alike threatened, and no balancing of individual excuses
+could for a moment be tolerated. The women nobly seconded the appeal
+to arms, and assisted in the work of preparation. Personal and social
+distinctions were levelled, and in response to roll-call there
+appeared the lawyer, the physician, the preacher, the magistrate, the
+banker, the merchant, the manufacturer, and the railway official in
+his multifarious forms, side by side with the humbler civilian--all
+animated with patriotic zeal in the common cause.
+
+Mayor McKnight, who subsequently himself joined a company named in his
+honor and commanded by Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, on the 11th sent
+William M. Baird, Esq., to Harrisburg to keep the home authorities
+informed as to the arrangements for the calling out and reception of
+the Reading militia. On the evening of the 12th, Mr. Baird telegraphed
+that the companies should hold themselves in readiness to march, and a
+little later communicated an order from headquarters to Captain
+Franklin S. Bickley, who was in charge of the first company organized,
+and the only one then ready, for his command to leave for Harrisburg
+the next morning by the first train.
+
+This company had its rendezvous in the second story of the building at
+the southwest corner of Fifth and Washington streets. Its roll
+originally contained 94 names, but the number of men who actually
+marched was but 64. Sergeant William H. Strickland was left behind to
+recruit the company up to the standard, and afterwards brought a few
+additional men to Chambersburg. The commanding officers were all of
+them men of some experience in military affairs, and proved themselves
+worthy of their positions. Captain Bickley had been a commissioned
+officer in the Pennsylvania Reserves; First Lieutenant Lewis H.
+Wunder was a veteran of the Mexican War; and Second Lieutenant Charles
+H. Richards, though never in actual service, had had a long connection
+with the militia before the war. In the ranks of the company were a
+few old soldiers, who were generally to be recognized by the coolness
+of their bearing.
+
+At this point it will be appropriate to give the names of the seven
+companies which were raised in Reading, or its immediate vicinity, and
+left in response to the Governor's call, with the dates of marching
+and their regimental assignments. Several other companies were in
+course of organization in the city and county, but the emergency had
+passed before they were ready to respond to the call:--
+
+Fifth Ward Guards, Captain F.S. Bickley, 70 men, Company G, 2d
+Regiment; September 13.
+
+Nicolls Guards, Captain Charles H. Hunter, 104 men, Company E, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.
+
+McKnight Guards, Captain Nathan M. Eisenhower, 95 men, Company I, 11th
+Regiment; September 15.
+
+Liberty Fire Zouaves, Captain William Geiger, 70 men, Company G, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+M'Lean Guards, Captain Samuel Harner, 45 men, Company H, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+Halleck Infantry, Captain Frederick S. Boas, 92 men, Company I, 20th
+Regiment; September 17.
+
+Berks County Cavalry, Captain Samuel L. Young, 67 men, Independent;
+September 17.
+
+
+At a meeting of Captain Bickley's Company, held on the evening of the
+12th, the marching order was read, and it was directed that the
+company meet at the armory at 10 o'clock the next morning in readiness
+to leave. Its subsequent movements during the campaign are detailed in
+the journal which follows, and to which what has already preceded is
+but a necessary preliminary.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+_Saturday, September 13._ According to orders, the company met at the
+rendezvous at 10 o'clock A.M. equipped for the march. The morning had
+been busily occupied in getting ready for the departure. The
+leave-taking with our friends had not been unmingled with feelings of
+solemnity, in view of the possibility that we might never see them
+again. The day was fine, and a large crowd of people congregated in
+the streets to see us off. On Penn Square, in front of the Provost
+Marshal's office, at the old Bell mansion, the pavement was blocked,
+as it had been for several days past, with applicants for exemption
+from the draft. The medical examinations were then in progress. We
+marched to the lower depot, headed by a band, and accompanied by the
+crowd. The company itself was wholly unprovided with music of any
+sort. Left by the regular morning passenger train for Harrisburg. In
+another car there was also a militia company from Pottsville,
+commanded by Captain David A. Smith, which had left home the same
+morning. All the men were in good spirits. Some amusement was afforded
+by a comparison of our accoutrements. The majority of the company were
+unarmed, and the only insignia of a regular military organization were
+the swords and sashes of the officers. The news by the morning papers
+still continued exciting. The army was said to be preparing to engage
+the rebels in Maryland, as no time was to be lost in checking their
+advance.
+
+The trip was without incident. Arriving at Harrisburg at 1-1/2 P.M., we
+were formed and marched to the State Capitol grounds. A scene of great
+activity was here presented. The people seemed everywhere to be
+flocking to arms. The Governor and the Adjutant-General were
+personally superintending the organization of the militia. Secretary
+Slifer and Colonel A.K. McClure were also actively engaged in the same
+work. We were much relieved to find that we were to be furnished with
+arms and equipments by the State, as our force was far from effective
+in its present shape. At the State Arsenal, on the Capitol grounds, we
+were supplied with Springfield muskets, knapsacks, haversacks, and
+canteens. Delivered up our old guns to be returned home. The muskets
+and bayonets, on first introduction, were handled with some curiosity.
+As there were no scabbards provided for the latter, the bayonets had
+to be carried fixed to the pieces. Of ammunition there was none on
+hand at present, but it was stated that a supply would be sent after
+us. Nothing was said about swearing us into service. The day was
+likely to be consumed in regimental organization, and it was probable
+we should not get off before the morrow. Some of our men had expected
+to meet the rebels before night. Fortunately for us, we still had some
+eighty miles the advantage of them.
+
+The first charge was upon our bags of provisions. My haversack had
+been bountifully stocked by my good landlady at home, Mrs. B., whose
+liberality as a provider and kindness of heart will always be held in
+grateful remembrance by her guests. The foresight of the Governor in
+mentioning in his proclamation the subject of rations, was generally
+commended, as little or nothing eatable seemed to be obtainable in
+this town since its occupation as a militia camp.
+
+Our company was assigned quarters on the east side of the Capitol
+grounds, upon the lawn in the rear of the public buildings. Passed
+the afternoon in watching the arrival of several additional companies,
+strolling around the Park, and looking through the Capitol buildings.
+Several of us climbed the stairway to the dome. Another charge on the
+haversacks about 5 P.M. Began to wonder where or how we were to pass
+the night. Our efficient Quartermaster, L.M.; at length solved the
+problem. He procured a lot of shelter tents, which were distributed,
+and the work of setting them up commenced. A little straw was brought
+from somewhere and put in for a bottom. Took a stroll through the town
+in the evening with Messrs. G., E., S., and others, visiting the
+railroad depots, which were just then scenes of particular activity.
+Stopped on the way at a lager beer saloon, which powerfully recalled
+home associations. Returned to the grounds and answered to roll-call
+about 10 P.M. Crawled into a tent with Dr. B. and J.R.K. A regiment or
+two was encamped around us. No military rules were as yet promulgated,
+and it was very evident that none were to be observed that night.
+Chaos reigned supreme. Singing, speech-making, and practical jokes of
+all kinds filled in the hours usually devoted to sleep, while the
+arrival of fresh companies, from time to time, appeared to stimulate
+the orgies as the night advanced. Slept a couple of hours, and until 2
+A.M., when the general discomforts of the situation moved me to seek
+more desirable quarters. Reconnoitred the outskirts of the camp, and
+found a large covered coach just outside the grounds, which I got
+into, and having wrapped myself in my blanket, slept tolerably for
+several hours. The night was quite cool, and these new accommodations
+proved comfortable only by comparison. Got out at daylight, washed my
+face at a pump, answered to roll-call, and then consulted my bag of
+provisions. This first night's experience in "camp" suggests how few
+and simple are the wants of man in a military state.
+
+
+_Sunday, September 14._ Went down town with Dr. B. to look after
+something to replenish our depleted commissary stores. The Doctor was
+acquainted with a family named Feger, in Walnut Street, near the
+river, whose son was a student of medicine, and suggested a call. We
+accordingly visited them, and were kindly provided with a good meal
+and a quantity of cigars. The young student conducted us to a bakery,
+where we laid in a supply of crackers. Returned to camp. Our company
+had been attached to the Second Regiment of Militia, as Company "G."
+The Colonel was John L. Wright, of Columbia. There were ten companies,
+mostly full, from Columbia, West Chester, Reading, Pottsville, and
+Lancaster City and County. The First Regiment, commanded by Colonel
+Henry McCormick, and containing companies from Harrisburg,
+Philadelphia, and Chester and Lebanon counties, had already been sent
+off down the Cumberland Valley Railroad to Chambersburg. At 11 o'clock
+we received marching orders for the same place, and about 1-1/2 P.M. the
+regiment proceeded out to near Camp Curtin and got aboard a train of
+freight cars, which had been provided with seats for the
+transportation of troops. A long delay, with the explanation of which
+we were not furnished, ensued; but about 3 the train started. A halt
+of an hour or more was made in town. A tremendous and enthusiastic
+crowd was out to see us off. Moved over the Long Bridge and stopped
+another half hour west of the Susquehanna. Chambersburg, our
+destination, was fifty-two miles distant. Passed successively through
+Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and Shippensburg, at each of which places
+short stops were made. Were struck with the great natural beauty of
+the Cumberland Valley region. Crowds of people came out to the
+stations to meet us, and black and white, old and young, all joined in
+the heartiest demonstrations of welcome. Were also greeted from the
+houses and roadsides all along the line by people waving their
+handkerchiefs and swinging their hats. At Mechanicsburg a whole girls'
+school was out to see us. This was a specially engaging sight to some
+of our number, who thought that that village would be a good place to
+camp. At Carlisle I met Mr. R.S., whom I knew. The _elite_ of the town
+were at the station, and S. pointed out to me the leading beauties of
+the place--I mean the ladies. Soldiers of a day, we already began, in
+the midst of these inspiring scenes, to feel like real veterans.
+Between stops the men beguiled the time singing, jesting, smoking,
+etc., and every one was in the best possible humor. Private T.H.,
+among the rest, favored the company with a curious song in
+Pennsylvania Dutch called "Babbel Maul," which performance his
+delighted auditors compelled him frequently to repeat. It was
+generally agreed that the most desirable way of marching was by
+railroad. Dusk deepened into night, and at about 9 o'clock
+Chambersburg was reached. Proceeded a mile or two below the town, when
+the train halted in a wood brightly illuminated with camp-fires, and
+resonant with the cheers of soldiers. Disembarked and went into camp.
+Rigged the tents, built fires, mounted the large cooking kettles with
+which we had been furnished at Harrisburg, boiled coffee and got our
+supper--"grub" is the military term for it. No news of any account
+from Maryland. My two comrades of the night before and myself
+constructed a sort of crib with fence rails put up between adjoining
+trees, and, after a smoke, laid ourselves up in it to sleep. The
+arrangement worked well, and we slept comfortably in this rustic
+bedstead until 5 A.M.
+
+
+_Monday, September 15._ After roll-call wrote letters home, and
+carried some water for the cook. The latter, W.P.D., is a character in
+his way, and deserves mention. Under a rough exterior he carries a
+kindly heart. In his particular sphere, the importance of which we all
+recognize, he is somewhat of an autocrat. In the distribution of the
+eatables he is governed by the strictest principles of equity, and
+shows no favoritism. He is very often justly ruffled when his
+functions are usurped, or undue dictation is attempted on the part of
+those bearing higher official authority. He is specially incensed at
+times when stratagems are employed by the men to steal the sugar, over
+which latter article he finds it necessary to maintain a vigilant
+guard. We are now down to regular army fare, our bill consisting of
+rations of bread, meat, coffee, and that well-known item of camp
+necessaries called "hard tack," which is a host in itself, being made
+to go a great way by reason of the degree of mastication which it
+requires. There can be no complaint as to the strength of the coffee,
+since there is no milk to dilute it, but the color of the sugar might
+afford ground of exception on the part of the over-fastidious. Soups
+of rice, meat-bones, and occasionally poultry, when there happen to
+be any hen-roosts in close proximity, make a substantial dinner.
+Soldiers' appetites are uniformly good, and little defects in the
+system of cookery are not ordinarily closely criticised. Tobacco, in
+all its forms, seems indispensable, by reason of the moral courage
+with which it is supposed to inspire alike the soldier and the
+civilian. This article is laid in by the men whenever and as often as
+occasion presents. In our great country it has all sections for its
+own. It is certain that the war is going to give an immense permanent
+stimulus to the consumption of this standard narcotic. Alcoholic
+beverages also are stored away in flasks against cases of emergency,
+which, in military affairs, as is well known, are of constant
+occurrence.
+
+During the morning we were gratified with the first sight of the
+enemy's paraphernalia, consisting of a train of captured baggage
+wagons, taken from Longstreet, and which were being driven in the
+direction of Harrisburg, whither, it is said, some hundred or more of
+prisoners from the same corps are being conducted. With a view of the
+latter we were not rewarded. The curiosity of the men to see a live
+rebel--in a _captured_ condition--is very great. The wagons were
+guided by contra bands, who did not, however, look as if they belonged
+to the numerous class called "intelligent," who figure so largely as
+news-bearers in the army dispatches. The train, as well as the
+prisoners, was under the escort of the Anderson Cavalry, which was
+doing scout duty between the lines. A slight change in the position of
+our quarters was ordered during the day, and tents were struck about 4
+P.M. and the company marched about two miles further to the south,
+halting in a large stubble field west of the railroad, in a position
+which had been dignified by the title of "Camp McClure." Had an attack
+of my old adversary, the sick-headache, and was soon forced to
+surrender. Was very kindly waited upon by several of the men,
+especially P.E. and his brother D., who is a candidate at home for
+District Attorney, but not on that account any the less unselfish in
+his friendly offices on the present occasion. The former made me some
+tea from pennyroyal, gathered upon the ground, which shortly operated
+as an emetic. On a bed of blankets and straw, arranged by sympathetic
+hands, with my knapsack for a pillow, and the open vault of heaven for
+a canopy, I soon became, as is usual with sufferers from this severe
+complaint, utterly indifferent to surroundings. A good night's rest
+brought a happy relief.
+
+
+_Tuesday, September 16._ Part of the morning was devoted to foraging
+at the neighboring farmhouses, but little or nothing could be
+procured, the ground having already been pretty well covered by
+advance parties. Apples, however, were abundant, as there were many
+fine orchards in this vicinity. Was detailed to attend Dr. S., the
+Company Surgeon, who was sick, and had taken refuge in an adjoining
+wood, into which our quarters were presently moved. Here, under the
+direction of the Quartermaster, a sort of wigwam was constructed,
+built of fence-rails and cornstalks, and floored with straw. It was
+long enough to accommodate the entire company, and formed a very tight
+and really comfortable tenement. The Conococheague Creek ran within a
+few hundred yards of the camp, and the men had several good baths in
+it. Regiments were continually arriving from the railroad, and the
+shrieks of the steam-whistles, the blasts of bugles, clatter of drums,
+and the cheering of the troops enlivened the day. Among the accessions
+were the Blue Reserves, of Philadelphia, a uniformed organization,
+which made a handsome appearance. Before night there were said to be
+ten thousand men on the ground. A large force of militia was evidently
+intended to be concentrated at this point. Met a number of
+acquaintances among the new arrivals. Had several squad and company
+drills, and expected, from the arrangements we observed in progress,
+to remain some time in this situation. While out for exercise we could
+hear the noise of distant artillery proceeding from the direction of
+Sharpsburg and Harper's Ferry. The anxiety increased to hear
+something from the army. Occasionally a newspaper, a day or two out of
+date, was brought in from the railroad, and its contents eagerly
+devoured. It was said that Hagerstown had been abandoned by the
+rebels, and that telegraph and railroad communication had been
+re-established with that point. Reports circulated, which were
+afterwards verified, that fighting had commenced between the corps of
+Generals Hooker and Reno and the rebels, and that General Reno had
+been killed. When the camp-fires were lighted, after nightfall, the
+woods resounded with martial music, song, and cheers, and the scene
+was a highly animating and inspiring one. Such sights are seldom
+witnessed, and are not to be soon forgotten. Before turning into our
+hut, seated myself on a bank a little distance apart from the rest, in
+company with my friend K., and we took a quiet smoke and talked of
+home, whither our thoughts continually turned. Enjoyed the best
+night's rest of the campaign, owing to the comfort of our quarters.
+
+
+_Wednesday, September 17._ Drilled in the morning in the adjoining
+fields, and while thus engaged observed a renewal of the reports of
+artillery towards the south, heard on the day previous, and with still
+greater distinctness. These proceeded, as we afterwards learned, from
+the battle-field of Antietam, some thirty miles off. A dull gruff
+belch, at irregular intervals, accompanied by a sense of concussion,
+told the story of the distant conflict. This inspired strange and
+solemn feelings. Human lives were being offered up as a sacrifice upon
+the altar of our country, and thousands of homes would sit in dread
+suspense until it should be known upon whom the fatal blows had
+fallen. The result, too, was of great concern to us, who were mere
+auxiliaries in reserve against an untoward crisis. The evolutions now
+assumed a significance they had not heretofore possessed. Their object
+seemed no longer to be skill merely, but preparation. The zeal for
+duty was quickened, and it was the idea of responsibility which was
+uppermost in the minds of all. Additional regiments meanwhile arrived,
+among others two of the Gray Reserves and Home Guards of Philadelphia,
+which left Harrisburg yesterday. With drilling, guard mounting, and
+the usual routine of camp duties, the day wore slowly away. Another
+picturesque scene at night. After roll-call crawled again into our
+comfortable domicil of cornstalks, with every reason to expect another
+good night's sleep. This idea, however, was a grievous delusion, as
+the sequel will show.
+
+
+_Thursday, September 18._ About 11 o'clock last night the beating of
+the ominous long roll aroused us from our peaceful slumbers, and the
+word quickly passed that we had received marching orders for
+Hagerstown, and were to be ready to leave at 12. The accoutrements
+having been collected by the light of the fires, the regiment marched
+to the railroad, a mile off, where it was expected a train would be in
+waiting for us. Alas! we here received our first practical lesson of
+the great uncertainty of military movements, and the mechanical nature
+of the duties of the soldier, who must obey orders, simply, without
+inquiring for reasons. In the quality of civilians, which we could not
+altogether consent to drop, our sense of individual importance was
+frequently infringed upon in our new capacity. Each in his turn felt
+disposed to divide with his superiors the responsibility of the
+command. After waiting several hours in the crisp cool air of the
+autumn night, without any train appearing, we lost all patience and
+lay down on our blankets for temporary repose. As the dews of heaven
+gently distilled upon our unprotected forms, the memory of the
+comfortable quarters we had just left did not add to the feelings of
+reconciliation to our present miserable situation. Sundry imprecations
+were vented upon the unknown authority in charge of the department of
+transportation. Many went to sleep, from which they would be
+occasionally roused by the rapid passing of trains, but our own
+looked-for conveyance did not, nevertheless, arrive. Morning broke at
+length and breakfast was improvised by the cooks.
+
+We waited hour after hour for our train, but in vain. Wrote letters
+home beside the railroad track, on the ends of the sills. Various
+reports from the army were in circulation, respecting the result of
+the battle, and the movements of the enemy, subsequently found to be
+unreliable. After dinner had a battalion drill, and when all
+expectation of the train had been given up, between 3 and 4 o'clock it
+suddenly appeared. Cheers greeted its arrival. It consisted, like the
+one in which we had come down, of house cars adapted for the present
+purpose, and we boarded it just in time to escape a shower which began
+falling at this moment. Were off, at length, and after a short halt at
+Greencastle, where I laid in some provisions, arrived about 6 o'clock
+at Hagerstown, which we found occupied by a considerable militia force
+that had been pushed forward within the past two days. Were surprised
+to find the companies of Captains Hunter and Eisenhower, from Reading,
+already there, as they had started from home after we had. Were
+informed by them that they had left Harrisburg on Tuesday night, and
+arrived at Hagerstown on Wednesday morning. They had been attached to
+the 11th Regiment, to the command of which Charles A. Knoderer, a
+talented civil engineer of Reading, who went as a private of Captain
+Eisenhower's company, had been promoted. The regiment was encamped a
+short distance below town on the Williamsport pike. Heard more
+definite intelligence of the result of the great battle fought
+yesterday, which is claimed as a decided Union victory. Were informed
+of the death of Captain William H. Andrews, of the 128th Regiment, who
+fell in the battle, and also of its commander, Colonel Croasdale.
+Captain Andrews's body had already arrived in Hagerstown. Several
+other members of Reading companies had been killed.
+
+Our company was separated from the regiment and marched in the dusk of
+the evening into a narrow lane not far from the railroad depot, where
+we were told we were to pass the night. The ground was wet from the
+rain which had fallen, and a slight drizzle continuing, a most gloomy
+and uncomfortable aspect was imparted to the surroundings. The
+prospect for rest was extremely unpromising. There was nothing to lie
+upon except our gum blankets, and no better shelter than what could be
+improvised by stretching the tents--with which we were now temporarily
+provided--from the top of a fence to the ground. There appeared to be
+some confusion as to the arrangements for quarters, and we could not
+understand why a better situation had not been selected for the
+night's bivouac. After supper K. and myself went through the town to
+buy some lanterns and other things for the quartermaster. We were
+conducted by an old negro whom we picked up by the way, and obtained
+what we were in quest of, as well as a couple of bottles of good
+whiskey, procured at a grocery store, notwithstanding the fact that
+the town was under martial law, and the sale of liquor to soldiers had
+been prohibited.
+
+After having made a pretty thorough exploration of the place, we
+returned to quarters, where we found a sharp discussion going on as to
+the propriety of the Governor's sending us across the State line, the
+authority for which some of the men were disposed to question. The
+objection evidently proceeded from those who did not like our present
+proximity to the seat of war. The debate ended, however, in a tacit
+concurrence in the opinion of the majority that it was all right.
+Passed a miserable night in this uncomfortable situation. Slept but
+little, and caught a severe cold, from the effects of which I suffered
+for several weeks.
+
+
+_Friday, September 19._ Orders came about eight o'clock to go into
+camp at a place about a mile below town, on the Williamsport pike, and
+in the course of a couple of hours the scattered regiment had been
+collected and transferred to the point indicated. The spot was known
+as the old Washington County Agricultural Fair Ground, and but a few
+days previously had been occupied as a rebel camp. Its principal
+attraction was a large and fine spring of pure water. The 11th was in
+the same vicinity. Before the company moved from the lane, I had been
+detailed, with a squad, to go to a certain farm-house, about two miles
+out of town, for the purpose of impressing a team for the conveyance
+of the regimental luggage. Went to the place designated, but found
+that the farmer's wagons were already in service--at least he so
+informed us. Lieutenant William P. Brinton, of Company H, and myself
+then proceeded half a mile further upon the same errand, and found a
+man plowing in a field. Told him that we wanted his team, and he
+complied without protest. I rode one of the horses to his house, and
+during this time heard some pretty heavy artillery discharges in the
+direction of the Potomac, or rather to the eastward, apparently about
+six or eight miles off. This was occasioned, as it was afterwards
+developed, by the escape of the main body of the rebel army across the
+river, below Williamsport, under a fire from detachments of
+McClellan's forces. After we had been kindly treated to a good lunch
+by the farmer, the team was conducted off in the charge of the
+lieutenant, while I took the nearest course to the farm-house first
+visited, to bring back some men who had been left there. Finding that
+they had already gone, I walked into Hagerstown, where I had some
+difficulty in ascertaining the whereabouts of our regiment, the
+marching orders having been executed during my absence. Took the
+opportunity to reconnoitre through the town for the purpose of laying
+in some provisions. The great frequency with which that occupation is
+noted in this narrative need excite no undue wonder, since, as we were
+nearly always eating, our private supplies were in a continually
+deplenished state. Hagerstown is an antiquated looking place, and is,
+at the present time, the seat of unusual activity, owing to its
+proximity to the centre of military operations. The population was
+said to be about equally divided in its political sympathies. It had
+been held alternately by both sides, so that everybody had had in turn
+an opportunity of "giving aid and comfort to the enemy." At the
+present it was transformed, for the time being, into a vast hospital,
+many of its public buildings being occupied for this purpose. Governor
+Curtin was here looking after the welfare of the Pennsylvania troops.
+By the Williamsport pike, a number of our wounded soldiers were still
+being brought in from the battle-field, a distance of ten miles. The
+sight of these sufferers was touching. Some were in ambulances, while
+others lay in the bottoms of ordinary farm wagons, with little or no
+shelter from the hot sun. Their wounds had been dressed, and the
+heroic courage which they manifested was something inspiring to
+witness. Many bodies of the dead had been sent in for transportation.
+In a wheelwright shop to which my attention was attracted, I saw the
+lifeless forms of two officers in uniform--a major and a
+lieutenant--awaiting boxing. The faces were ghastly, and I turned from
+them with a feeling of pain as I thought of the hearts that even now,
+perhaps, were being torn with grief in the distant homes. These sights
+were realities, not pictures, and gave me a more vivid idea of the
+horrors of war than the most graphic pen descriptions I had ever read.
+Alas! I thought, to what extent is this slaughter to go on, and when
+will the sacrifice for patriotism's sake be complete?
+
+Came up with the camp at length, and found the men engaged in clearing
+the ground and pitching the tents, which work was continued until
+dinner time. Toward the middle of the afternoon, great interest began
+to centre upon the road, occasioned by the frequent and furious
+galloping up and down of cavalry pickets and aids, and the report
+spread that a considerable body of rebels was advancing up the pike in
+the direction of Hagerstown. The long roll was beat, and the command
+to fall in was given. We were now supplied with sixty rounds of
+ammunition per man--the first that we had received--and loaded our
+guns, which looked like business. In default of the usual appliances
+for that purpose, the cartridges were deposited in our overcoat
+pockets. Thus ballasted, we were marched down the road about a mile
+and a-half, and halted at a point where detached lines of battle were
+being formed. Our regiment was deployed in two ranks to the left of
+the great road, in a ploughed field, on rising ground, and was in the
+front line. The Gray and Blue Reserves of Philadelphia, supported by a
+battery, constituted a portion of the right wing on the other side of
+the road, and the Maryland Brigade, a uniformed body of three years'
+men, five thousand strong, commanded by General Kenley, were posted on
+our extreme left. A regiment of skirmishers were in a wood a little in
+advance of the brigade. Some twelve or fifteen thousand men were thus
+concentrated in several lines, and the whole force was so disposed as
+to afford a converging fire upon the road. Major-General John F.
+Reynolds, who we learned was in command, had his headquarters on a
+hill, to the right of the road, where the colors were planted, and at
+which point aids were observed to be constantly reporting.
+
+Things now began to wear a serious appearance. A number of farmers
+were noticed removing their household goods from our front, towards
+Hagerstown, by the road. They were evidently alarmed, and expected a
+battle. It was also remarked that portions of the fences along the
+pike had been torn down, and the rails piled up at different points in
+the road, by way of obstructions against the advance of an opposing
+force. We stood at a rest in the line, with guns half-cocked and
+bayonets fixed, momentarily awaiting the appearance of the foe. An
+incident occurred at this juncture which, though trifling, drew the
+attention of the entire force for the time being. The report of a
+musket was heard in the woods where the skirmishers were, followed by
+a loud shriek and audible groans. It was at once surmised that one of
+the militiamen had been accidentally shot. Presently, a crowd was
+observed conducting a man up the road toward the town, and it was then
+explained that this person was subject to attacks of mania-a-potu, and
+that the excitement of the moment had made him crazy. The occurrence
+could not but be suggestive of a similar catastrophe to the reason of
+some others of the force, who were just then exposed to the like
+danger.
+
+Our Colonel next rode along in front of the regiment, observing to us
+that we must not mind if we found a little hail coming over in our
+direction soon. The preparations were now complete, and the decisive
+moment seemed to be rapidly approaching. But--tamely enough to
+relate--hours were passed in the same situation without any further
+developments whatever. Meanwhile the beautiful autumnal afternoon
+wore gradually away, and the sun went down behind the Cumberland
+Mountains, throwing a flood of golden light over the really
+picturesque landscape. Virgil's charming line involuntarily crossed my
+mind:--
+
+        "Sol ruit interea, et montes umbrantur opaci."
+
+The singular beauty of the scene, and the absorbing interest of the
+situation, with its profound and alternating emotions of hope and
+apprehension, painted a picture upon the memory which time can never
+obliterate. Dusk thickened into night, and we remained in a standing
+posture until nine o'clock, when we were permitted to rest our pieces
+upon the ground and stealthily eat our rations. Some neighboring
+grain-stacks were invaded, and a few sheaves brought, which we unbound
+and strewed along the clods. Upon these we were at length allowed to
+lie down to rest--not to sleep--still grasping our cocked pieces, and
+ready for an instant alarm. About one o'clock the report was
+circulated, which proved to be the fact, that the forces of McClellan
+had driven the enemy across the Potomac into Virginia; but it was
+stated that some detached bodies of the latter had been cut off, and
+that the services of the militia were desired in order to capture
+them. The proposition was discussed--a debate being admissible under
+the peculiar circumstances, since it will be remembered we were not
+sworn into service--and it was resolved that we would go as far as the
+Potomac. Before we could move, however, the order was countermanded,
+and the summons was now suspected to be a stratagem to test our
+mettle. But contemporaneous events justify the conclusion that it was
+otherwise, and that no ruse was designed to be attempted in this
+affair, at the expense of the gallantry of Pennsylvania's home
+defenders.
+
+
+_Saturday, September 20._ At daylight we were allowed to break ranks
+and stack our arms. No very definite information could be obtained
+during the morning as to the probable developments of the day, but, so
+far as appearances indicated, the situation of affairs was unchanged.
+
+While in our present position I cannot restrain a feeling of
+admiration for the earnestness of many of the members of our
+organization. Among them are some of Reading's most considerable
+citizens, men who occupy important stations, and carry weighty
+responsibilities. Strange figures, indeed, they make here, in far-off
+Maryland, resting upon their arms, and keeping watch for the invading
+foe. Could their loved ones see them at this moment, what moral heroes
+would they appear in their eyes! I could not help observing how
+strikingly the predominant characteristics of men are developed in
+critical emergencies. In our mutual concern for the common safety, it
+is in the strongest characters that we feel our chief reliance is to
+be placed. Those who have the fairest reputations at stake, display
+the greatest degree of firmness, and _vice versa_. This criterion, it
+is evident, will hold good when the severest test shall be applied.
+H.V.R., a member of the Bar, cares little for the details of military
+discipline, but is a model of fidelity to the idea of duty, as is also
+his brother J., who is a layman. Dr. M., a bank officer, is
+punctuality itself, probably from long force of habit, and shrinks
+from no service, even the humblest. His former connection with
+military companies makes him a highly intelligent soldier. Mr. G.,
+also a lawyer--I waive the military titles--moves cautiously,
+deliberates and debates, but perseveres. As a gigantic shooting
+excursion he is probably best reconciled to the present expedition,
+and since we have now secured our ammunition, is doubtless anxious to
+sight the game. L.B., a merchant, is a model civilian, and a man of
+recognized high character. He has left home with a purpose, which he
+will stand to, come what may. D.E., the candidate for office to whom I
+have before referred, was never born to be a willing subject of rules
+in any sphere of life, and makes an erratic soldier. He has become
+tired of the slow progress we have been making toward the
+battle-field, which, in a spectacular sense, he is impatient to look
+upon. J.W.B., a light-hearted old time captain of a troop of horse,
+is true game; and the same may be said of our Quartermaster, L.M., who
+keeps the command in good humor by the jokes which he is constantly
+bandying with the Captain. J.K.S., printer, is remarkable for his
+intelligence as to the object of those military manoeuvres which the
+rest of us regard as inexplicable. J.P. is a sturdy fellow, of clear
+grit, who would be a good neighbor in a perilous moment. B.O. is a
+serious man, distinguished for the quiet regularity of his bearing and
+steadiness of his movements. Not so Dr. B., a waggish apothecary,
+whose skill as a forager I have all along had occasion to mark, and
+who seems, when an advance is made, to be at all points of the camp at
+the same time. J.H.F., an ex-country justice of the peace, enjoys the
+distinction of being the only man in the company in regimentals,
+having donned a uniform made for him some years ago, when he was
+orderly sergeant of a company which belonged to the Kutztown
+battalion. His avoirdupois has greatly increased since the garments
+were made, and his harness is so tight that he finds marching very
+uncomfortable. He stands upright a large part of the time from force
+of circumstances, and sits down with caution. Our orderly, J.G.S., a
+harum-scarum young attorney, is a singular mixture of discipline and
+drollery. Lieutenant R. is an exceedingly modest man, who is not
+without knowledge and merit as an officer. Lieutenant W. is an old
+soldier, of quick eye and firm bearing. The utmost reliance can be
+placed in his intelligence and courage. Private K., bank teller,
+before mentioned, and myself, though separated in the ranks by reason
+of a difference in inches, have taken a liking to each other, and have
+formed a solemn league of mutual assistance when matters come to the
+worst. As he is armed with a pistol and a dirk, in addition to his
+musket, I feel that the advantage of the covenant is largely on my
+side.
+
+At 4 P.M. artillery firing was renewed in our front, and an hour or so
+later the long roll was again beat all along the line, and the command
+to fall in was given. A forward movement down the road had been
+ordered. The intelligence had been brought in that a body of the
+rebels had recrossed the river at Williamsport, and the subsequent
+official dispatches explained that this force was a detachment of
+Lee's cavalry under Stuart, with a regiment of infantry and some
+pieces of artillery, whose evident design was a raid upon Hagerstown,
+where a large quantity of military stores had been received for
+McClellan's army. General Couch's division had been sent up to drive
+him back, and it was the exchange of compliments between the two which
+we now heard, though of this explanation we were for the time being
+ignorant.
+
+In the march down the road, the cavalry took the advance, and were
+followed by the Maryland Brigade. The militia then closed in, and the
+successive lines gradually dissolved into a single column. The
+musicians were sent to the rear. After proceeding half a mile or so,
+the column was halted, and came to a rest in the road, in which
+position it remained for an hour or more. By this time it was dusk,
+and the artillery discharges in the front had become really
+formidable. The firing was principally from the rebel guns. Signal
+rockets now and then illuminated the sky, and a brilliant panorama was
+presented to the view, the complexion of which was decidedly warlike.
+Aids galloped up and down the column at a rattling pace, and things
+rapidly assumed an air of confusion. I draw a veil over the scenes
+presented at this juncture among a portion of the reserves of General
+Reynolds. It would take a better soldier than myself to tell what
+would have been the result of a serious collision at this moment, to
+the body of this force, whose chief misfortune was that it was
+entirely undisciplined. The plan agreed on was to receive the
+advancing enemy with the bayonet, in case a fire should be found
+ineffectual to check his progress. Many of our comrades made leagues
+with each other, offensive and defensive, and examples of coolness
+and determination inspired confidence in the main body of the men,
+who, I am satisfied, would have followed orders and done their duty.
+
+The firing presently ceased, and from some mounted officers the
+intelligence was communicated that General Couch's division was now
+immediately upon our front, and that our pickets were in
+correspondence with his. At about eight o'clock we were ordered to
+quarters in a stubble-field alongside the road, having been previously
+cautioned by the Colonel not to build large fires, which injunction,
+it is unnecessary to state, was faithfully obeyed. The roll was called
+by the orderly, and the guards posted for the night. Did guard duty
+from eight to ten, and from three to five. During the night, as the
+sequel showed, the enemy, finding their design anticipated, and
+perceiving the preparations on all sides to intercept them of so
+thorough a character, abandoned their project on Hagerstown, and,
+under the cover of darkness, quietly recrossed the Potomac, and
+escaped safely into Virginia--horse, foot, and dragoons! Thus
+virtually ended the militia campaign in Maryland.
+
+
+_Sunday, September 21._ Moved our camp into a very desirable location
+in the adjoining woods recently occupied by our skirmishers. As it
+was now generally understood that all immediate danger was at an end,
+signs of the relaxation of military discipline began to appear, and we
+returned to the easy habits which had characterized our band of
+civilian soldiery before it arrived in the vicinity of the late scene
+of conflict between the hostile armies. The tents were leisurely put
+up, and, the strain of the past two days being taken off, we prepared
+to spend a pleasant day of rest in the cool shade of the woods. Some
+of the members of an adjoining regiment began a promiscuous firing of
+their pieces, which it was said came very nearly drawing down the fire
+of General Couch's guns upon our peaceful camp, it being supposed for
+the time being that some straggling bands of the enemy might still be
+lurking in the neighborhood. The chaplain of the regiment held
+religious services, while some of the men stretched themselves under
+the trees, and others made haste to write letters home, giving
+accounts of the perilous scenes through which they had passed. These
+missives, as it turned out, they had the gratification of delivering
+in person. The Quartermaster, with his accustomed forethought, had
+made a requisition before daylight on a neighboring hen-roost, and
+preparations for serving dinner had already been begun, when, at
+eleven o'clock, marching orders for Greencastle, Pa., arrived. This
+was an agreeable surprise, as it suggested a homeward journey. The
+authorities evidently regarded the emergency for which we had been
+called out as at an end, and since this fact was assumed, a longer
+sojourn in Maryland appeared undesirable.
+
+We now packed up our traps and moved up to our former camping ground
+at the Agricultural Park, near Hagerstown, where the interrupted
+dinner of rice soup and chicken was most thoroughly appreciated. At
+two P.M. the regiment started off in light marching order, the baggage
+wagons following. We now took leave of the 11th, a portion of whom had
+been making themselves useful that morning in the town in unloading
+the military stores that had been sent here by rail for the army. As
+we passed through the streets, we put on our best appearance, the men
+struck up a song, and we were cheeringly greeted by the population.
+Reaching the open country, we marched at random. The afternoon was
+warm and the roads exceedingly dusty. About dusk, the line between
+Maryland and Pennsylvania was crossed, and three hearty cheers were
+given for the Keystone State. Stopped half an hour in the little
+village called Middleburg, or "State Line," at which point the
+Anderson Cavalry passed us on their way to Carlisle, raising a
+suffocating dust. At dark the march was resumed, and having proceeded
+a short distance, we were ordered to discharge our muskets, which had
+been loaded for the rebels. This made a continuous blaze of light
+along the whole line. Some of the men charged and fired again, to keep
+up the sport, but the Colonel put a stop to this. The road grew
+rougher as we advanced, and many of our comrades now and again
+stumbled and fell in the darkness. After having marched twelve miles,
+and arrived within some three miles of Greencastle, we were halted
+about half-past eight o'clock, and went into camp in the woods. Sleep
+came without courting. I had never before felt its influence so
+insinuating, so benumbing, so irresistible!
+
+
+_Monday, September 22._ The teams being now dismissed, each man
+shouldered his own luggage, and the march was resumed at eight
+o'clock. At Greencastle we found an encampment designated as "Camp
+M'Cormick," containing several thousand militia, which had not
+proceeded further south than this point, having been among the later
+organizations. With these was the 20th Regiment, containing the
+companies of Captains Boas, Geiger, and Harner, from Reading, with
+whom we exchanged friendly greetings as we passed. About a mile above
+Greencastle we were halted in a wood, and after considerable
+manoeuvring, the import of which we could not understand, and, being
+very tired, could not appreciate, we stacked arms and unslung
+knapsacks. Here we were rejoined by several of our men who had been
+down the day before to visit the battle-field, having been fortunate
+enough to secure passes from the military authorities for that
+purpose. They gave terrible descriptions of the scenes which they had
+witnessed, and exhibited a number of relics which they had brought
+away. It was understood that the parley at this juncture was with
+reference to the arrangements for transportation, a subject which, as
+usual, appeared to be involved in much intricacy. The period of our
+stay in this situation was therefore uncertain, and after dinner had
+been served, the remainder of the day was given up to relaxation and
+amusement. Under the latter head came in performances of
+blanket-tossing and elephant parades--tricks which most of us had
+never seen before, but which we learned were well known among old
+soldiers. The Sancho Panza of this occasion was a small boy, picked up
+by the Lancaster Company, and I dare say that, from the energy and
+perseverance with which the sport was conducted, the unfortunate lad
+got more of it than he bargained for. This company had among their
+number a comical genius named Gable, irreverently dubbed the
+"Chaplain," whose sallies afforded a never-ending source of amusement
+to his comrades, as well as to some of the field and staff officers,
+who frequently formed a portion of his admiring auditory. Most of the
+Chaplain's wit on this, as on other occasions, was of a character
+that would have far removed it from the test of refined criticism.
+Mirth and song filled in the waning hours of the day, and, all
+restraints being removed, the night was given up to general hilarity.
+
+
+_Tuesday, September 23._ Were aroused at 2 A.M. by the receipt of
+orders to proceed to the railroad, half a mile away, for
+transportation. Again we were the victims of an unfortunate bungle in
+the railway arrangements. The train which had been intended for our
+accommodation was appropriated by another regiment, whose triumphant
+departure up the valley we had the satisfaction of witnessing. Several
+other trains passed, and at daylight we were still in _statu quo_,
+worn out with fatigue, and vexed with disappointment. The entire day
+was passed in the same situation, and to add to our discomfiture, the
+rations had given out and the neighborhood was unpromising for forage
+of any kind. Was assigned for guard duty the ensuing night from ten to
+twelve, when lo! at about eleven, after the long expected event had
+ceased to be anticipated, it came to pass suddenly. The screech of a
+steam-whistle was heard alongside of us, which announced that our
+train was at last on hand. After the usual preparatory bustle, we were
+safely loaded up, and were presently whizzing off at a good speed
+toward Chambersburg. The dim light of the lanterns tied to the rods
+at the top of the cars, threw a gloomy air over the sleeping freight
+which they contained. At one o'clock a halt of an hour was made at
+Chambersburg, and by daylight Shippensburg was reached.
+
+
+_Wednesday, September 24._ At Carlisle another stop of half an hour.
+The morning was clear and bright, and the men in the most cheerful
+spirits. We arrived at Harrisburg at eleven o'clock, and were marched
+at once to the Capitol grounds, where we turned over our arms and
+accoutrements at the Arsenal. In company with K., I went to the United
+States Hotel, where we got a good dinner. I am inclined to think the
+landlord did not clear much on the meal which we laid in on that
+occasion. At 1.45 P.M. the company took the regular afternoon
+passenger train for Reading, our Pottsville friends being again with
+us. Reached home at 4.15, and found a concourse of citizens assembled
+at the depot with a band of music to receive us. After a short street
+parade, by way of exhibition, I presume, of the State's gallant
+defenders, we filed into our old mustering place, at Fifth and
+Washington Streets, where, with loud and hearty cheers for everybody
+concerned, we were dismissed, and thus our brief but memorable militia
+campaign of eleven days peacefully ended.
+
+The company of Captain Bickley, which had been the first to leave
+Reading, was also the first to reach home. On the day it arrived, a
+proclamation was issued by Governor Curtin, discharging the militia,
+with his grateful acknowledgments in the name of the State, and
+commending their bravery in passing the borders, although not required
+to do so by the terms of the call, holding Hagerstown against an
+advancing foe, and resisting the threatened movement of the rebels
+upon Williamsport until the United States troops arrived and relieved
+them. This timely and heroic action, the Governor said, saved the
+State from the tread of the invading enemy. He recommended that the
+militia organizations be preserved and perfected--a suggestion which
+was not generally followed.
+
+The only sad feature of the campaign was the dreadful accident which
+befel the company of Captain Boas, from Reading, of the 20th Regiment,
+on the Cumberland Valley Railroad, near Harrisburg, at an early hour
+on the morning of Friday, the 26th of September. The train on which
+they were returning collided with one going in the opposite direction,
+and four members of the company were killed and some thirty injured.
+
+General McClellan thanked Governor Curtin for the timely aid of the
+State militia, and the moral support thus rendered to the army.
+Governor Bradford, of Maryland, made a similar acknowledgment. Nearly
+fifty thousand Pennsylvania militia responded to the original call,
+about one-half of whom were in actual service on the border. The
+following year they were compensated by the State, the Legislature
+having made an appropriation for that purpose, allowing fifteen days'
+pay to each man, at the rate prescribed by Act of Congress for the
+payment of the regulars and volunteers in the United States service.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Eleven days in the militia during the
+war of the rebellion, by A Militiaman
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