Citation
Military history of Florida

Material Information

Title:
Military history of Florida
Series Title:
In Evans, C. A., ed. Confederate military history. Atlanta, 1899. v. 11
Creator:
Dickison, John Jackson, 1816-1902
Place of Publication:
[Atlanta
Publisher:
Confederate pub. co.
Publication Date:
Language:
English
Physical Description:
212 p. : front., port., maps (part fold.) ; 24cm.

Subjects

Subjects / Keywords:
History -- Florida -- Civil War, 1861-1865 ( lcsh )
Biography -- Florida ( lcsh )

Notes

Statement of Responsibility:
By Col. J. J. Dickison.

Record Information

Source Institution:
University of Florida
Holding Location:
University of Florida
Rights Management:
All applicable rights reserved by the source institution and holding location.
Resource Identifier:
024432631 ( ALEPH )
01690150 ( OCLC )
AAP8871 ( NOTIS )
02017145 ( LCCN )

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Full Text
















































J. J. DICKISON





















MILITARY


HISTORY


FLORIDA.


COL. J.


DICKISON.




a5 Y)







CONTENTS.


PAGU.
CHAPTER XV I. U Texa Ct ou station
as a Soldier-Idii in Tes and
Mezic-The It Tm]o M
Soldier-The Si tStae-
The Two Rhe Goven-
ment-How Anothw ar may be .............
APPENDIX ...
IAPPENDIX..... ............... .. ...... .... 1so
BIOGRAPHI A ........................................... a3


BAGBY, ARTHU P.


Bas Hamorox P


S0 *s.o a o go goo p .


DuBNAY, XAVlrk B................*
Ecro, MATTHEW D..................
GANO. RICHARD M..................
Ga.uNBY, HIRAM B......... .....
GRatN, THOMAS ..........*.. ... ..
GnzR ELKANAH...........
GNGG, JOHN........... ............
HAlDuMAN, W. P. ..............o
HARISON, JANms E.......... .
EAIAISON, THOMAS.......... ....
Hoo oL....... ....., ....
LAJ, WALTI P.................
MAxurv, S&MXu ......... ...
McCULLOc, BkN........ .... .....
McCuLoca, HuNR E.. ...........
Moors, JoHN C......,............
RomaRTs, OmN M.. ............
Roiisow, FLux ................
RomBiTso, Jalol B................
Ross.,LAwbwaa..................
SrTu, W4 00 ...................
ScUAIn WyA R................
TXAS AD is MIssassIPn (Map).
WArn O RICRAtD..............
WAU., ZaOAS N1..................
WHAKO, JoHN A.................
Wmi.n, JOHN W.................

Y o'WaU... ...... ......


/4



*.. .a0 .6 0 0
**S ******** ******
rl0 0 a 0 Ie I a a a

5 e S 0 a a* 0 a a a a
....9... .........


* *** S *...*.*** i
...e.............

S*****************








..Betwean pages


. .. a. .. a .0 ..


FrAIG PAGE.


ILLUSTRATIONS-TEXAS.


0












CONTENTS-FLORIDA.


SPAo.


CHAPTER L Secesson of the State-Proeedings of the Con.
vetion-Eary Event at Pensaa-Union with the Com-
federate States-First Praation for War...............
CHAPTER IL Federal Strin Florida-Reinforcement of
.ort Pickens-ConferadteTroops Called Out for Pen ola
-Destruction of the Judah-Fit on Santa Rosa .l d-
Bombardment of Port McRee-Evacuaton of Pensaco&lm
Other Events of the Period...... ............ .......
CHAPTER III. Organisation of Regiments-Secoqm
-Third Infantry-Foarth Infantry-Pirst Cavazry-wcsa
Cavalry-Marion Light Artillery-Events of M86s and ,it.
CHAPTER IV. The Olustee Campait-Formaida
Movement-Design to stabih a New State
--Con eatia d Confederate Forces-Crushb n a t
Sthe nmy-.Operations Following the Battle.. .........
CHAPTER V. Oranization of the District of Florida in the


at"tMl


er of 864-Palatk, Welaka


ad Port But


le&-Wthdrawal of Troop to Vi rgiia-Pight with Gin-
boats on the St. John's-d Federal Actvty-
of Pltka-Evacuation of Camp Milton and Bahdwin-Bat-
.tie Gamesvile..........................................
CHAPTER VL Further Ope on in the Fall of 1Fd-
wal hIunion- to Mwian-Gren Cove prind to
Mtoe-Pirif~ near Braddock Farm-Near Car Keme-
Natural Brig-The Coing....... ............
CHAPTER VII. Florida Trop in the Army of Northat Vir-
ginia-Secsd Regiment on thPePerry's Bm*^
-Bttle of ettI Sm-Pinegan's Brigad........* ...
CHAPTER Vm. lorida Troop in the Wom Arm-Ts
First Infan -Third Infantry-orth In try
Brigade at Chiamaga-irst
Seventh Infantry-Trig's Brigade at
ley's Brlde. ................ ...........................
APPENDIX..................................................
BIOGRAPHICAL.......,. ,,,,.. .... ....... .* *














ILLUSTRATIONS-FLORIDA.

FACING PAGE.


ANDZRON, J. PATTON..... ..
BnEVRD, THmODORE W... ..
BULLOCK, ROBERT ...........
DA W. G. M..............
DxICxSON, J. J..............
FINEGAN, JOSEPH..............
FnmxY. Jss J.............
FLORIDA, MAP oF...........
LORMEG WnuLIAM W.........
MITm, WILLIA............
OCzAN POND, BATTLEv LD OF (
PrRRY,. EDWARD. A...........
SHOuP, FRANC A...........
SmvTH, MARXTI LW....... ....
WALTER, WlLUA 68... .... ..


********* *** S******* *





....Betwese pages 19i sad
*I S II *t a a..II a* a aa
a. a.. S ae e*.. *.... ** *** *



a. *... aa a ..*..a a... a....




V





































































































*










CHAPTER I.

SECESSION OF THE STATE-PROCEEDINGS OF THE CON-
VENTION-EARLY EVENTS AT PENSACOLA-UNION
WITH THE CONFEDERATE STATES-FIRST PREPA-
RATIONS FOR WAR.
E are told by the historian of an earlier age that
whenever the renowned men of the Roman com-
monwealth looked upon the statues of their an-
cestry, they felt their minds vehemently excited to virtue.


It could not have been the bronze or
this power, but the recollection
kindled a generous flame in their s


marble that possessed
of great actions which
ouls, not to be quelled


until they also, by virtue and heroic deeds, had acquired
equal fame and glory. When a call to arms resounds
throughout the land and a people relinquish the pleasant
scenes of tranquil life and rally to their country's call,
such action is the result of an honest conviction that the
act is commendable. In recalling such an epoch, the wish
that a true record of the deeds done should be transmitted
to posterity must dominate every patriot heart. Loy-


alty to brave
ing war-years
and fought to
ism which char
from posterity
struggle. We


men, who for four long years of desolat-
of undimmed glory-stood by each other
the bitter end with the indomitable hero-
acterized the Confederate soldier, demands
a preservation of the memories of the great


cannot find in all the annals of history a


grander record or prouder roll of honor, nor more just
fame for bravery, patient endurance of hardships, and
sacrifices.
The noble chieftain, Robert E. Lee, said: "Judge your
enemy from his standpoint, if you would be just What-
ever may be said of the contention between the two great






CONFEDERATE MILITARY
f,


HISTORY.


sections of the Union, whether by arbitration of council
every issue might have been settled and a fratricidal war
averted, there will be but one unalterable decree of his-
tory respecting the Confederate soldier. His deeds of
heroism "are wreathed around with glory," and he will
be ever honored, because he was not only brave and hon-
orable, but true to his convictions. The sacrifices made
by our loyal defenders and their glorious deeds shall not
perish; but the pen of the historian shall hand them down
through the ages-a proud heritage to our race and to all
mankind. Now that the people who so grandly illus-
trated their loyalty to the Confederacy are passing away,
the South claims from them a truthful, dispassionate his-


tory of the causes leading to their wit
Union, and the subsequent events when
sounded throughout the land.
Religion and patriotism should domir


life,
legi
witl
The(
the
hist


hdrawal from the
the tocsin of war


late every human


and as love of country comes next to our love and al-
ance to God, it must follow that a people panoplied
h righteousness must be a highly patriotic people.
: memories of the heroic sufferings and sacrifices of
noble men .and women throughout the land make a
ory that will shine with imperishable luster, "idealij-


ing principle, strengthening character
love of country," proving to the world th
Noble souls through dust and heat
Rise from disaster and defeat
The stronger."
The grandest vindication of the South
Truth, no longer crushed to earth throu
edness and sectional prejudice, will write
acters a just tribute to every American
on either side. Let the record be: "He]
ican Hero, a Martyr to the Right as his
ceived it."
In x 86o the storm of political strife that
ily gathering for many years culminated


ind intensifying
at


will come when
gh narrowmind-
in golden char-
soldier who fell
re lies an Amer-
Conscience con-


had been stead-
with the election






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


of Abraham Lincoln, the Republican sectional candidate
for the presidency of the United States on an avowed sec-
tional policy. At the commencement of hostilities against
the South, in Charleston harbor, and especially on the
proclamation of President Lincoln calling for 75,ooo
troops to make an unconstitutional war on theseceded
States, the war-cloud darkened all Florida and every heart
burned with indignation. All former differences of opin-
ion, all past party prejudices, yielded to the mastery of a
just sense of impending danger; and, animated by their
spirit that had inspired their fathers in 1776, the people
of Florida resolved to unite in the patriotic effort to secure
for the South an independent government, as the Consti-
tution framed by their forefathers had been violated. With
a patriotic and heroic sense of their great duty, our brave
citizens throughout the State began to make preparations
to be in readiness to respond to their country's call, to
resist the wicked design of sectional partisans to wage a
cruel war of coercion against the seceded States. Com-
panies of cavalry, artillery and infantry were rapidly and
successfully organized. The formation of these splendid
organizations -was so rapid that Florida secured a proud
place when the time came for her troops to be received into
the service of the Confederate States arny.
The ablest jurists and statesmen of the country having
firmly asserted, clearly elucidated and bravely vindicated
the legal right of a State to secede from the general gov-
ernment, an intelligent, chivalrous people, prpudly as-
sured of the justice of their convictions, cduld not forswear
the great principlesof a lifetime. On the 3d of January,
1861, the people of Florida, through their delegates chosen
in pursuance of the act of the general assembly, approved
iNovember 30, 186o, assembled in convention in the hall of
the house of representatives in the capitol of the State,
at the city of Tallahassee. This honorable body, com-
posed of the best talent in the State, was temporarily or-
ganized with John C. Pelot, of Alachua, as chairman, and.







CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


B. G. Pringle, of Gadsden,


as secretary.


After


an ad-


dress by Mr. Pelot, the proceedings were opened with
prayer by Bishop Rutledge.
The names of the members of the convention, and the
counties and districts they represented, are here preserved:
John Morrison, A. L. McCaskill, of Walton; Freefan
B. Irwin,of Washington; Richard D.Jordan, R.R.Golden,
of Holmes; S. S. Alderman, Joseph A. Collier, of
J ckson; Adam McNealy, James L. G. Baker, of Jackson;
Simmons I. Baker, of Calhoun; McQueen McIntosh, of
Fifth senatorial district; Thomas F. Henry, E. C. Love,
of Gadsden; Abraham K. Allison, of Gadsden; John
Beard, James Kirksey, of Leon; G. W. Parkhill, G. T.
Ward, Wm. C. M. Davis, of Leon; Daniel Ladd, David
Lewis, of Wakulla; Thompson B. Lamar, Thomas M.
Palmer, of Jefferson; J. Patton Anderson, Wm. S. Dils-
worth, of Jefferson; John C. McGehee, A. I. Lea, of Mad-
ison; W. H. Lever, of Taylor; E. P. Barrington, of La-
fayette; Lewis A. Folsom, Joseph Thomas, of Hamilton;
Green H. Hunter, James A. Newmans, of Columbia;
A. J. T.Wright, unseated by John W. Jones, of Suwannec;
Isaac C. Coon, of New River; John J. Lamb, of Thir-
teenth senatorial district; Joseph Finegan, Jas. G. Cooper,
of Nassau; I. M. Daniel, of Duval; John P. Sanderson,
of Sixteenth senatorial district; Matthew Solana, of St.
John's; James O. Devall, of Putnam; Rhydon G. Mays,
of Seventeenth senatorial district; John C. Pelot, J. B.
Dawkins, of Alachua; James B. Owens, S. M. G. Gary,
of Marion; W. McGahagin, of Marion; James H. Chand-
ler, of Volusia; William W. Woodruff, of Orange; Wil-
liam B. Yates, of Brevard; David G. Leigh, of Sumter;
Q. N. Rutland, of Nineteenth senatorial district; James
Gettis, of Twentieth senatorial district; George Helvens-
ton, of Levy; Benjamin W. Saxon, of Hernando; Simon
Turman, of Hillsboro; Ezekiel Glazier, of Manatee;
Wm. Pinckney, Winer Bethel, of Monroe; Asa F. Tift, of
Dade; Jackson Morton, Wm. Simpson, of Santa Rosa;
a






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 7

Wm. Wright, Wm. Nicholson, of Escambia; T. J. Hen-
dricks, of Clay; Daniel D. McLean, of Fourth senatorial
district; Samuel B. Stephens, of Seventh senatorial dis-
trict; S. W. Spencer, of Franklin; W. S. Gregory, of Lib-
erty.
The permanent president then selected, Hon. John C.
McGehee, of Madison county, was sworn by Judge J. J.
Finley. His address, so ilear and dispassionate on this
momentous occasion,. is worthy of a record in these pages,
that the youth.of our land may better understand the lofty
spirit that characterized the men who were there as-
sembled.
Mr. McGehee said: "Gentlemen, I feel very sensibly
the honor you have done me in calling me to preside over
your deliberations. Such a manifestation of confidence
and respect by the assembled sovereignty of my State,
called together in such a crisis to consult together for the
general safety,.- deply affects my feelings, and in return
I offer all that is in my power togive-the homage ofa
grateful hedrt. The occasion on which we are called to-
gether is one of the most solemn and important,that ever
assembled a people. Our government, the inheritance
fromia noble ancestry-the greatest achievement of human
wisdom, made to secure to their posterity the rights and
liberties purchased with their blood, is crumbling into
ruins. Every day and almost every hour brings intel-
ligence confirming the opinion that its dissolution is at
hand.
"One State, one of the time-honored thirteen, has
withdrawn the powers granted in the Constitution which
constituted her a member of the Union, under the polit-
ical power of the government. All our sister States im-
mediately adjacent to us are at this moment moving in
the same direction, under circumstances that render their
action as certain as anything in the future. And as we
look farther and beyond we see the same swell of public
sentiment that a sense of wrong always inspires, agitating






CONFEDERA TE


MILITARY


HISTORY.


the great heart of the more distant States. And no rea-
sonable doubt can be entertained by the most hopeful and
sanguine that this excitement in public sentiment will
extend and increase and intensify until all the States that
are now known as the slaveholding States will withdraw
fheir political connection from the non-slaveholding
States, unite themselves in a common destiny and estab-
lish another constitution.
"Why all this? The stoQy is soon told. In the forma-
tion of the government of our fathers, the Constitution of
1787, the institution of domestic slavery is recognized
and the right of property in slaves is expressly guaran-
teed. The people of a portion of the States who were
parties in the government were early opposed to the in-
stitution. The feeling of opposition to it has been cher-


ished and fostered and inflamed
sion of the public mind at the
that it overwhelms every other
the political power, and now t
slavery throughout the Union.
our people, of course, slavery is
and a destruction of that dest
This party, now soon to take po
government, is sectional, irrespo


until it has taken posses-
North to such an extent
influence. It has seized
hreatens annihilation to
At the South and with
the element of all value,
roys all that is property.
session of the powers of
msible to us, and, driven


on by an infuriated, fanatical madness that defies all op-
position, must inevitably destroy every vestige of right
growing out of property in slaves. The State of Florida
is now a member of the Union, under the power of the
government soon to go into the hands of this party. As
we stand, our doom is decreed; and realizing an imperative
necessity thus forced upon them to take measures for
their safety, the people of Florida have clothed you with
supreme power and sent you here with the high and
solemn duty to devise the best possible means to insure
their safety, and have given you the charge to see that
their commonwealth suffers no detriment.
"Your presence at this capitol is the highest proof that






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


your people fear to remain under their government. With
poignant regret no doubt they leave it, but they have no
ground or hope of safety in it. What are we to do in ful-
fillment of our duty in this crisis? I will not presume to
indicate your course-your superior and collected wisdom
must decide. I cannot doubt, though, that our people are
safe in your hands, and that you will, in a manner becom-
ing the dignity of the high position you hold, and worthy
of the trust confided to you, promptly place them in a po-
sition of safety above the power and beyond.the reach of
their enemies. As one of you, representing a noble and
confiding constituency, I pledge to you and to them the
entire devotion-of the powers of my mind in the discharge
of this duty; and with my full heart, I ask you, each of
you, to forget all former differences of opinion, all past
party prejudices, and make now and here, on the altar of
your State, your country, for the sake of your people, a
sacrifice, an offering of all feeling, prepossession or pre-
judice that may stand in the way of perfect harmony and
concord; and may, the God of nations watch over us and
bless ourTabTos-and guide us into the haven of safety."
A communication was received from Gov. M. S. Perry
announcing that Hon. E. C. Bullock, commissioner from
Alabama, and Hon. Leonidas W. Spratt, commissioner
from Florida, were in waiting, and a committee composed
of Messrs. Ward, Baird and Lamar, was appointed to bring
the commissioners before the convention. The conven-
tion was addressed by these representatives of sister
States, also by Edmund Ruffin, of Virginia. On January
7th a resolution was adopted, affirming the right of a
State to withdraw from the Union, and a committee to
prepare an ordinance of secession for the consideration of
the convention was appointed. This committee was com-
posed of J. P. Sanderson of Duval, A. K. Allison of Gads-
den, McQueen McIntosh of Franklin, James Gettis of
Hillsboro, James B. Owens of Marion, James B. Daw-
kins of Alachua, Wright of Escambia, Jackson Morton of
K,






CONFEDERA TE


MILITARY HISTORY.


Santa Rosa, George T. Ward of Leon, James Patton An-
derson of Jefferson, David Ladd of Wakulla, and Sim-
mons J. Baker of Calhoun.
The committee, in the report accompanying the ordi-
nance which it recommended, alluded to the method of
formation of the Union and the right of withdrawal re-
served by the States, and said: "The inducements which
led Florida to become a member of the United States
were those Which should actuate every people in the form-
ation of a government, to secure to themselves and their
posterity the enjoyment of all the rights of life, liberty
and property, and the pursuit of happiness. Your com-
mittee fully concur in the opinion that the consideration
for which Florida gave her assent to become a member of
the Federal union has wholly failed; that she is not per-
mitted enjoyment of equal rights in the Union. The
compact is therefore willfully and materially broken."
The committee therefore recommended that the conven-
tion, called to protect the interests of the State, adopt an
ordinance of secession from the United States, and that
Florida declare-herself to be a sovereign and independent
State.
On the sixth day of the convention, January 1o, z86x,
the proposed ordinance was taken up, considered, and.


adopted by
ing cast by
McCaskill,
The text
"We, the
assembled,


a vote of yea 62, nay 7; the negative votes be.
Messrs. Baker of Jackson,Gregory, Hendricka,
Morrison, Rutland and Woodruff.
of the ordinance is as follows:


people of the
do solemnly


That the State of Florida
the Confederacy of States
United States of America,
ment of said States, and


State of Florida, in convention
ordain, publish and declare:
hereby withdraws herself from
existing under the name of the
and from the existing govern-
that all political connection be-


tween her and the government of said States ought to be,
and the same is hereby totally annulled, and said union
of States dissolved, and the State of Florida is hereby de-


e






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 11

dared a sovereign and independent nation, and that all
ordinances heretofore adopted, in so far as they create or
recognize said Union, are rescinded, and all laws or parts
of laws in force in this State, in so far as they recognize
or assent to said Union be, and they are hereby e ealed."
The president of the convention was then instructed to
inform the proper authorities of other Southern States of
the action which Florida had taken. The committee on
enrollment reported that in obedience to a resolution
adopted by the convention the enrollment of the ordi-
nance of secession had been properly and correctly made,
under the direction of the judges of the Supreme court of
the sovereign State of Florida, and the same was submit-
ted to the convention for signature. The following cor-
respondence between the judges and Miss Elizabeth
Eppes was presented and placed upon the minutes of the
convention:
Tallahassee, January o1, i861.
Miss Elizabeth Eppes:
By resolution of the Convention of the People of the
State of Florida, we, the judges comprising the Supreme
Court of this State, are appointed to direct the enrolling
of the Ordinance of Secession passed this day. In dis-
charging our duty, we have directed that the Ordinance
be enrolled on parchpient and bound with blue ribbon.
The honor of binding the same, we have with your per-.
mission intrusted to you, believing that you as one of the
native daughters of our beloved Florida and a.lineal de-
scendant of the immortal author of the first Declaration of
American Independence, will cheerfully lend your aid in
embellishing the parchment, which contains the Declara-
tion of the Independence of the Sovereign State of
Florida.
Yours with great respect,
CHARLES H. DUPONT,
WM. A. FORWARD,
D. S. WALKER.
-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


Tallahassee,
Hon. C. H. Dupont, Hon. Wm. A.
D. S. Walker, Associate Justices,
Florida.


Gentlemen:


HISTORY.


January io, z861.
Forward and Hon.
Supreme Court of


Your honored and esteemed favor of this


evening just received, soliciting my aid in embellishing,
by your order, with blue ribbon the parchment containing
the Declaration of the Independence of the Sovereign
State of Florida. I thank you, gentlemen, for the honor
and the flattering terms in which your communication is
couched. With you, I glory in the solemn act of our own
State independence' and in behalf of the ladies of my na-.
tive State of Florida I assure you we go heart and hand ini
the cause and will do all in our feeble power to assist in
the maintenance of the proud Declaration of Independ-
ence. I cheerfully accept the portion of duty assigned
me and will embellish the immortal parchment as you
desire and request. I have the honor to be yours re-
spectfully,
E. M. EPPES.


The day following the passage of the ordinance of se-
cession, a committee was appointed to wait upo his ex-
cellency, Gov. M. S. Perry, both branches of the legis-
lature, and the judges of the Supreme court, and inform


them


that the convention was ready to ratify the ordi-


nance and invite their attendance;


Governor Perry, suf-


fering an attack of sickness, could not be present at the
signing of the ordinance, and his place was filled by the
Hon. John Milton, governor-elect. After prayer by Bishop


Rutledge the convention signed


the ordinance


before
I


the assembled citizens of Florida, after which the presi-
dent declared that the State of Florida was a free afd in-
dependent State, and that all political connection between
her and the existing government of the United States was
dissolved.
During the subsequent proceedings of the convention,


which


continued in session until the 2ist, the following


resolution was adopted:


"Whereas, the State of Florida


has severed her connection with the late Federal Union,






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 13

notice of that fact should be communicated to President
Buchanan; Resolved, that Hons. S. R. Mallory, D. L.
Yulee and George S. Hawkins, be and are hereby ap-
pointed commissioners for that purpose."
It was also resolved, "That this convention authorize
and empower the governor of this State to employ the
militia of this State, and such forces as may be tendered
to the State from the 'States of Alabama and Georgia to
defend and protect the State, and especially the forts and
public defenses of the State now in possession of the
State, and that the governor be authorized to make all
necessary arrangements for the support and maintenance
of such troops and carrying on the .public defenses; That
it is the sense of this convention that the governor should
not direct any assault to be made on any fort or military
post now occupied by Federal troops, unless the persons
in occupation of such forts and posts shall commit overt
acts of hostility against this State, its citizens or troops in
its service, unless directed by a vote of this convention."
It was on January x2th, two days after the passage
of the ordinance of secession, that the Federal troops at
Pensacola abandoned the navy yard and Fort Barrancas
and retired to Fort Pickens, removing the public stores
and spiking the guns at Barrancas and the navy yard.
The movement was a significant one, indicating that the
Federal garrison, anticipating a demand for the surrender
of the forts within the limits of the State, were preparing
to act on the defensive, by concentrating in this strong
fortress, on the extreme western part of Santa Rosa
island, commanding the entrance to Pensacola bay and
harbor. They could there sustain a siege without great
loss to their forces, and when eventually strengthened by
their navy, could' act on the aggressive and soon control
the city of Pensacola and the adjacent towns. The pos-
session of the fortification commanding the entrance to
the harbor of -Pensacola was of vital importance to the
safety, of the seceding States on the Gulf of Mexico. No






CONFEDERATE


other place on the Gulf wa
held Fort Pickens, an al
which could be taken onl
bold and skillful movemei
The importance of Pent


point
to aid
Colon
Atth


MILITARY HISTORY.

LS safe while the Federal troops
most impregnable stronghold,
ly by an effective force and by
it.
sacola to Alabama in a military


of view rendered it an imperative duty of that State
in its defense, and 225 gallant Alabamians under
el Lomax were immediately ordered to Pensacola.
e same time the governor of Mississippi, at the sug-


gestion of the governor of Alabama, ordered troops to re-
pair at once to Mobile and there await orders to. Pen-
sacola. In the course of a few weeks these troops, also
forces from Georgia, were encamped at Pensacola in read-
iness for action whenever it was deemed advisable by the
commanding general'to make an attack on Fort Pickens,
or on such troops as would be eventually landed on Santa
Rosa island to act in concert with the garrison. It was


necessary that a strong military
treated to prevent a great Federal
at this point, from which none


force should be concen-
depot being established
of the gulf ports would


have been free from annoyance or danger, especially
Mobile and New Orleans. If confined to Fort Pickens
the Federals could not concentrate any considerable body
of troops there, and even though the other forts and the
navy yard might be commanded by it, still they could not
venture to occupy them while our forces were present in


sufficient numbers, nor could
for operations on other points.


they fit out an expedition
Though these demonstra-


tions were apparently hostile, they were a necessary pre-
caution for protection to the people of the Gulf States;
and the unanimous feeling prevailed that no blood should
be shed in the present state of affairs; that a Southern
Confederacy must first be organized. During these excit-
ing events telegrams were received by Col. William H.
Chase, whom the governor appointed major-general com-
manding State troops, and by A. E. Maxwell, R. C. Camp-
bell and C. C. Jouge of Pensacola, from Senator S. R.






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY 15

Mallory, "that a collision should be avoided; that Fort
Pickens was not worth a drop of blood."' Governor Perry,
to co-operate with the troops from Alabama and other
States, had ordered a force to Pensacola, consisting of
two volunteer companies of infantry, one from Leon
county, under Capt. Perry A. Amaker, the other from Jef-
ferson county, commanded by Capt. James Patton Ander-
son.. On arriving in Tallahassee en route for Pensacola,
a request had been made by the latter company and ac-
ceded to by Captain Anderson, who was at the time a
member of the convention, that he would command the
company on this expedition. The troops failing to get
steamboat transportation at St. Marks, returned to Talla-
hassee and started overland via Quincy and Chattahoo-
chee. By urgent request of Captain Amaker, seconded by
Governor Perry, Captain Anderson assumed command of
both companies. On their arrival at Chattahoochee arsenal
a dispatch was received from the governor directing them
to remain there until further orders, but within about ten
days they were disbanded by order of the governor, it hav-
ing been decided not to attack Fort Pickens at.that time.
Before the disbandment of these companies the conven-
tion of Florida, still in session, determined to send dele-
gates to the Southern convention to be held at Montgom-
ery, in February, for the purpose of forming a provisional
government.- On the 17th day of January the Hons. Jack-
son Morton of Santa Rosa county, James B. Owens of
Marion, and James Patton Anderson of Jefferson, were
appointed such delegates.
A resolution was passed that the delegates from this
State to the convention "be instructed to oppose any at-
tempt on the part of said convention to legislate or trans-
act any business whatever other than the adoption of a
provisional government to be substantially on the basis
of the constitution of the late United States, and a per-
manent constitution for the Southern Confederacy upon
the same basis, and that in the event of the said conven-

S. a.






16 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

tion undertaking on any pretext whatever to exercise any
powers other than that above enumerated, that our dele-
gates are instructed to protest against the same and to de-
clare in behalf of the State of Florida that such acts will
not be deemed binding. "
Select committees having been appointed for the dis-
cussion of the adoption of proper methods in the forma-
tion of rules and regulations governing the judiciary,
civil, military and naval departments of the State, and
having satisfactorily accomplished this important work,
on the 2 st of January, 1861, a committee of three was ap-
pointed to wait on the governor and inform him that the
convention was ready to adjourn and to learn if he had
further communications to make. On the return of the
committee with report that the governor had no further
communications to make, resolutions of thanks were ten-
dered to the Hon. John C. McGehee, president of the con-
vention, for the impartial and dignified manner in which
he had discharged the duties of the position. The conven-
tion also adopted resolutions expressing fheir approval
and high appreciation of the acts of Major-General Chase,"'
as the same had been communicated by Colonels Hol-
land and Gee, aides to the governor, and thanks were ten-
dered to these officers, to the troops, and to Governor
Moore for "his promptness and patriotism."' It is worthy
of note that General Chase' in accepting the appointment
of military commander$informed Governor Perry that he
would serve without pay or any personal expense to the
State.
On the 4th of February, 1861, the delegates from the
seceding States met at Montgomery, Ala., and prepared a
provisional constitution for the new Confederacy. This
constitution was discussed in detail and was adopted on
the 8th of February, 1861. All the principal measures
of that body passed or proposed during its session, met
the approval and support of our delegates. The day fol-
lowing the adoption of the constitution, on February 9th;





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


an election was held for the selection of chief executive
officers. Mr. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, was elected
president, and Mr. Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia,
vice-president.
In assuming the grave responsibility of the laborious
work of chief executive of the provisional government,
Mr. Davis was sustained by the consciousness that the
South was justified by the absence of wrong-doing on her
part and by the wanton aggression on the part of the
North. His farewell speech before the United States
Senate possesses especial significance.and historical inter-
est. He said, "If I had not believed there was justifi-
able cause, if I had thought Mississippi was acting with-
out provocation, I should still have been bound by her
action." While many of our prominent leaders believed
that our right to secede would not be questioned Mr.
Davis felt assured that the North would not let the South
go; that she would endeavor to enforce by the sword the
obligations that she had broken in the political conditions
of peace. In entering upon his new duties, as soldier and
war minister he knew what war meant and was satisfied
that the South could achieve her independence only
through a long and sanguinary conflict. Thus wisely


forecasting results he could not be
-mising secessionist until assured tha
the freedom and the interests of the
be defended within the Union.
The first and second sessions of t


an ardent, uncompro-
t the honor. the right,
South could no longer


he p


ment were held in Montgomery, Ala.,
x861, to May 21, x86x; the third, fourth
mond, Va., from July 20 to November
19th of February, 1862, a permanent o
Confederate States was effected, the
president and vice-president cast by


. 4


provisional govern-
from February 4,
and fifth at Rich-
18, x86x. On the
organization of the
electoral vote for
the several States


being 1o9. The entire vote was cast for Jefferson Davis,
of Mississippi, for the office of president, and for Alexan-
der Stephens, of Georgia, for vice-president.
Fla 2


4
J





18 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

During the period of the Confederate government,
Florida's representatives in the Senate were James M.
Baker and Augustus E. Maxwell, and the members of
Congress successively elected during provisional and
later rule were J. P. Anderson, James B. Dawkins,
Robert B. Hilton, Jackson Morton, J. M. Martin, J. B.
Owens, St. George Rogers, G. T. Ward and J. P. Sander-
son. Florida's governors during the civil war were Mad-
ison S. Perry to November, 1861, John Milton from No-
vember, 1861, to April, x865. The latter dying before the
expiration of his term, A. K. Allison was acting governor
until the close of the war, when he was arrested with
other prominent officials, by military order, and impris-
oned in Fort Pulaski.
War having been begun against the seceded States soon
after the inauguration of President Lincoln, the governor
of Florida engaged in active preparations for the coming
conflict, now inevitable. This first movement was to is-
sue orders to the volunteer companies to organize into
battalions and regiments, and for all citizens subject to
military duty to make preparations at once for war and


be in readiness for such
the defense of the State
sive line of seacoast that
gunboats and transports
to blockade our ports..


service as would be required for
and the protection of the exten-
would be exposed to the enemy's
, which would very soon be sent
A prompt response was made to


the call, and companies were rapidly formed throughout
the State, and organized into battalions of infantry and
cavalry, resulting before many months in .the formation
of regimental organizations composed of the finest ma-
terial in the State. Four artillery companies were also
formed, nobly officered and well equipped, and under


such
they
ment
man;


admirable discipline that when called into service
soon won a proud name by the splendid manage-
of their guns, and their coolness and heroism. In
Instances they displayed a dauntless intrepidity on


the battlefield, not only in


the State, but while in the






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


army of Tennessee. These magnificent batteries are re-
corded on the muster-roll of Florida's defenders as
Abel's, Gamble's, Dunham's, and Martin's.
Revolutions develop the high qualities of the good and
the great, and Florida's loyal citizens proved their great-
ness when the alarm of war was given and the clash of
arms resounded throughout the land. Never has there
been recorded a more prompt- and unselfish spirit on the
part of any people. Although the State was sparsely
settled and the highest vote ever cast was 12,898, yet in


proportion


to her population


she furnished


as large a


quota to the Confederate army as her sister States. The
South has no prouder record of heroism and patriotic
bearing of citizens and soldiers than the beautiful Land
of Flowers. In the camps of instruction were gathered
all the elements of a chivalrous and dauntless soldiery-
brave men and beardless boys who were destined to stand
in the front during the four years' terrible struggle, and
come forth covered with scars, the soldier's badge of
honor; others destined to be stricken down by disease and
infdistant lands find premature graves; andthousands who
were to meet death-at the cannon's mouth or in loathsome
Northern prisons-whose names will be handed down, a
glorious heritage of loyalty and patriotism, "to be ever
honored by a proud and grateful people. Many of the
survivors of the cause, made glorious by its baptism of


fire and blood and held in sacred 1
began their career as privates, rose
duct to high rank and now occupy
the history of our State and country.
In obedience to the governor's
immediate service, to be in readiness


the commanding general at
advisable to make an attack


ving remembrance,
by meritorious con-
prominent places in

call for troops for
for action whenever


Pensacola' should deem it
,ten volunteer companies


reported for duty, two from Alachua county and. eight
from middle and west Florida. They were ordered to
the military rendezvous at Chattahoochee arsenal, which






20 CONFEDERA TE MILITA R Y HISTORY E

was in possession of the State, and reorganized into a
regiment to be mustered into the Confederate service as
the "First Florida infantry regiment." These companies
were respectively commanded by Captains Anderson,
Amaker, Cropp, Powell, Hilton, Baker, Bradford, Gee,
Myers, Lamar and Bright.
The organization of the regiment was effected and field
officers chosen. Capt. J. Patton Anderson was elected
colonel; William Beard of Tallahassee, lieutenant-col-
onel; and Thaddeus A. McDonell of Gainesville, major.
They were ordered to report at Pensacola to General
Bragg, who on the 8th of March, 186 had been appointed
brigadier-general in the provisional army and assigned
to duty in Florida, with headquarters at Pensacola.
On the 5th of April, x86x, they began their march, a dis-
patch being forwarded by Theodore W. Brevard, adju-
tant-general of Florida, that about 580 men belonging to
the counties east of the Chattahoochee river would take
steamers at that point for Columbus, where transportation
and subsistence would be expected. The companies on
the west side of the river would march through.










CHAPTER II.

FEDERAL STRENGTH IN FLORIDA-REINFORCEMENT
OF FORT PICKENS-CONFEDERATE TROOPS CALLED
OUT FOR PENSACOLA DESTRUCTION OF THE
JUDAH-FIGHT ON SANTA ROSA ISLAND-BOM-
BARDMENT OF FORT McREE EVACUATION OF
PANSACOLA-OTHER EVENTS OF THE PERIOD.
HEN on January sth Senator Yulee wrote from
Washington to Joseph Finegan at Tallahassee
the immediately important thing to be done is
the occupation of the forts and arsenals.in Florida," the
United States occupied the following places in the


State: the Apalachicola arsenal at Chattahoochee, where
there were stored a small number of arms, 5,0oo pounds
of powder and about 75,00ooo cartridges; Fort Barrancas,
with 44 cannon and ammunition; Barrancas barracks,
where there was a field battery; Fort Pickens, equipped
with 201 cannon with ammunition; Fort McRee, 125 sea-
coast and garrison cannon: Fort Taylor. Kev Weft with


60 cannon; K
6 field batted
ferson on the
As pointed
and forts at P
was then on


ey West barracks, 4 cannon; Fort Marion,
ries and some small arms; and Fort Jef-
Tortugas.
out by Senator Yulee, "the naval station
ensacola were first in consequence." There
the mainland one company of Federal ar-


tillery, commanded by John H. Winder,
general in the Confederate service, but


at a later date a.
on account of his


absence Lieut. A. J. Slemmer was in charge. On Janu-
ary 8th the latter removed a store of powder from the
Spanish fort to Fort Barrancas, where a guard was placed
with loaded muskets, one of which was fired on the same
night toward a party of citizens who approached the fort.

21






22 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

Slemmer moved his force over to Fort Pickens on one
of the vessels in the harbor under Commodore James
Armstrong, commandant at the navy yard, and on Janu-
ary 12, x86x, the flag was lowered at the navy yard,
which, with all the fortifications and munitions of war on
the mainland, went into the possession of the State. The
two vessels in the harbor, the Supply and Wyandotte,
steamed out, remaining in the possession of the United
States officers. The eighty men under Slemmer at Fort
Pickens maintained a defiant attitude. On the night of
the x1th a deputation went to the fort, consisting of Cap-
tain Randolph, Major Marks and Lieutenant Rutledge,
and demanded the peaceable surrender of Pickens to the
governors of Alabama and Florida, but Slemmer declined
to recognize the authority of those officials. On the next
night a small party of armed men from the mainland re-
connoitered on the island, and a few shots were fired from
the fort. On the x5th Col. W. H. Chase, who as an officer
of the United States army had built the forts and was
thoroughly familiar with all the defenses about Pensacola
bay, visited Pickens in company with Capt Ebenezer
Farrand, who had been second in command at the navy
yard, and renewed the request for surrender, but this
and a third demand a few days later were equally with-
out success. Nothing remained to the State forces except
to make an assault; but the Florida senators in Washington
and other representative men, including Senator Jeffer-
son Davis, telegraphed advising that no blood should be
shed. In the meantime the government at Washington
was sending reinforcements to Forts Taylor and Jefferson,
and on January sist Capt Israel Vogdes, with a -com-
pany of artillerymen, was ordered to sail on the sloop-of-
war Brooklyn to reinforce Fort Pickens. On being in-
formed of the latter overt act, Senator Mallory telegraphed
to Mr. Slidell that it would doubtless provoke an attack
upon the fort by the force of 1,700 men then assembled
at the land defenses under Colonel Chase, and he urged






CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


HISTORY .


that President Buchanan be informed that Fort Pickens
would not be molested if reinforcements werp not sent.
Vogdes was then instructed not to land his men unless
hostilities were begun.
Thus the situation remained, with Vogdes' men on ship'-
board off Santa Rosa island, and the Alabama and Flor-


ida volunteers on shore engaged in strengthening their
defenses. On February x ith Lieutenant Slemmer pro-
tested against the erection of a battery which he observed
the volunteers working at, and Colonel Chase made
prompt answer that, while he did not deem the erection
of batteries as aiming at an attack on Fort Pickens, yet
he would give orders for its discontinuance.
A few days after the inauguration of Mr. Lincoln, Cap-
tain Vogdes was ordered by General Winfield Scott to
land his company, "reinforce Fort Pickens, and hold the
same until further orders." Thus the conditions of exist-
ing peace were broken.
But when Captain Vogdes sought the co-operation of
Captain Adams, commanding the fleet, in making a land-
ing, the latter refused on the ground that his instructions


forbade such action sc
movement on the part
this was communicated
of the United States
mand of the Monitor at
the South to Pensacola
liver a verbal message
Adams; did so on Apri
But on the night of th
at Fort Pickens, and G


long as there was no aggressive
of the Confederate forces. When
to Washington Lieutenant Worden,
navy, later distinguished in com-
* Hampton Roads, was sent through
. He obtained permission to de-
of a ".pacific nature to Captain
il i2thfrQs started home by rail.
e 12th Vogdes' troops were landed
general Bragg, reasonably inferring


that Worden had brought orders to that effect, ordered
his arrest, and he was apprehended at Montgomery and
held for several months ps a prisoner.
On the other hand, after General Bragg took command
at Pensacola, March Ixth, he had ordered the resumption
of work on the batteries, and had informed the Federal


b
D





24 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

commander that such action seemed fully justified as a
means of defense, and especially so under the threats of
the new administration."
On April ist a second and more formidable Federal ex-
pedition was ordered to the Gulf coast under Colonel Har-
vey Brown, who was given command of Florida by the
Federal government and ordered to make Fort Jefferson
his main depot and base of operations. He sailed on the
ship Atlantic,' followed by the Illinois, carrying stores,
and the ships Sabine, St. Louis and Crusader were also
in the expedition, as well as the Powhatan under Lieut.
David D. Porter, all indicating the intention of the United
States to make a formidable effort to retain armed pos-
session of its strongholds at Key West, Dry Tortugas and
Santa Rosa island. The forces with Colonel Brown
landed April i8th, and troops continued to arrive, it being
the intention to put 3,000 men on the island.
Meanwhile the government of the Confederate States
was not idle. Provisional forces were called out for the
defense of Pensacola harbor: ,oo000 from.Georgia, x,ooo
from Alabama, 1,ooo from Louisiana, 1,5oo froti Mis-
sissippi, and 500 from Florida; in all 5,ooo infantry. Gen-
eral Bragg had an aggregate present on the last of March
of a little over I,ooo Confederate State troops, and rein-
forcements soon began to arrive, so that he had 5,ooo on
the i4th of April, and advices of 2,ooo more coming. On
the 2oth, the Federal expedition having arrived, affairs
grew more warlike along the lines of works frowning
across the bay. All intercourse with the Federals was
prohibited by General Bragg, and martial law was de-
clared at the Confederate position. But for some time
there were no active operations, and late in May some of
the troops at Pensacola were called to Virginia.
At other points the State of Florida had made warlike
preparations for defense against hostile invasion, although
it was realized that it was impossible to fortify the whole
coast. From Pensacola to St. Augustine, 1,400 miles






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY


and more, there was nothing approaching a forti-
fication except the works-at Key West and Tortugas,
and those posts, the keys to the Gulf, were held by the
enemy. There were a few cannon mounted at St. Au-
gustine, at Fort Clinch on Amelia island, at the moutJof
St. John's river, at Fernandina, Cedar Keys, St. Marks,
Apalachicola and Tallahassee; but there were only two
guns at each of the gulf points, and St. Augustine had
but eleven. At this time (May) it was estimated that
Florida had 700 men in the field at Pensacola, and nearly
2,000 more, organized under the last call of the President
and equipped by the State, ready to march where ordered.
On May ioth the Confederate steamer Spray captured
off Cedar Keys the United States schooner William C.
Atwater, with thirty-one men. The boat was taken to
Apalachicola and converted into a blockade runner, but
was recaptured off the same port in January following by
the Federal steamer Itasca. Tampa bay was blockaded
in July, and in August the port of St. Marks was covered
by the steamer Mohawk, whose crew also obstructed the
channel by sinking a captured sloop. In July the Fed-


eral steame
sent them a.
they were
Federal in
The Fede
tant ports, a


r Massachusetts captured four schooners and
s prizes to Key West, but when off Cedar Keys
recaptured by the Florida forces and the
charge were sent to Tallahassee as prisoners.
ral blockade was established at all the impor-
and the sight of the enemy's war vessels was a


common occurrence to
Milton sought to have
the important one of
from Secretary Walker


the troops on the coast. Governor
the harbors protected, especially
Apalachicola, and received notice
, August 3oth, that Brigadier:Gen-


eral Grayson of the Confederate army had been assigned
to the military command of Middle and East Florida.
He was succeeded by Gen. James H. Trapier in Oc-
tober, and early in November the east coast was included
in the new department of South Carolina, Georgia and
Florida, first under command of Gen. Robert E. Lee.





26 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

General Grayson, reaching Fernandina early in Septem-
ber, found a circular posted, warning all loyal citizens of
the United States to assemble on the south end of the
island to escape the "vengeance of an outraged govern-
ment, as the Federal troops were about to take posses-
sion; and he reported that "as sure as the sun rises" if war
munitions were not sent in thirty days Florida would fall
into the hands of the North. But he did not reckon as
fully as he might upon the indomitable courage of her
people. Florida did not at once become a "Yankee prov-
ince," as he expressed it.
General Grayson was in infirm health and died soon after
his arrival, being temporarily succeeded in command by
Col. W. S. Dilworth, Third regiment Florida volunteers,
at Fernandina. On the ioth and ixth of October Maj.
W. L. L. Bowen, commanding at Tampa bay, captured
two sloops carrying the United States flag with thirteen
men.
'The quiet which had reigned for some time at Pensacola
harbor was disturbed on the early morning of September
14, i86i, by an attack upon the Confederate schooner
Judah, which had been fitted out with a pivot and four
broadside guns. She was moored to the wharf at the navy
yard, under the protection of artillery on shore, when as-
sailed by ioo men from the Federal fleet, in four launches.
The Federals boarded the schooner and a fiercely con-
tested fight resulted, in which the crew displayed great
courage, but were finally driven to the wharf, where they
rallied and, joined by the guard, kept up a continuous fire
on the vessel. The Federals had promptly applied the
torch to the Judah, and as the flames shot up the alarm
roll was sounded along the shore and signal rockets as-
cended. The Judah burned to the water's edge and sank,
and with this achievement the Federal party withdrew,
after losing 3 killed and 13 wounded. This is deserv-
ing of remembrance as the first encounter of armed
forces in the State during the Confederate war, in which






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY 27

there was a loss of life. It did not provoke General Bragg
into opening fire with his batteries, but he planned an ex-
pedition against the outposts on Santa Rosa island which
should avenge the enemy's annoyances. About z, ooo men
were detailed for this duty, under the command of Brig. -
Gen. R. H. Anderson, whose official report which follows
affords a graphic account of this celebrated affair:
I have the honor," said General Anderson, to sub-
mit the following report of the affair on Santa Rosa island
on the night of the 8th and the morning of the 9th of Oc-
tober. The detachments which had been ordered to as-
semble at the navy yard arrived at the hour appointed
and were embarked in good order on the steamer Time.
Whilst proceeding from the navy yard to Pensacola the
troops were divided into battalions, as follows: The First
battalion, 350 strong, to the command of which CoL James
R. Chalmers, Ninth Mississippi regiment, was assigned,
was composed of detachments from the Ninth and Tenth
Mississippi and First Alabama regiments. Three com-
panies of the Seventh regiment Alabama volunteers, two
companies of Louisiana infantry, and two companies of
the First regiment of Florida volunteers, composed the
Second battalion, 400 strong, to the command of which
Col. J. Patton Anderson, First regiment Florida volun-
teers, was assigned. The Third battalion, 26o strong,
under command of Cot John K. Jackson, Fifth regiment
Georgia volunteers, was composed of detachments from
the Fifth Georgia regiment and the Georgia battalion.
An independent company of 53 men, selected from the
Fifth Georgia regiment, and Captain Homer's company
of artillery, lightly armed with pistols and knives, carry-
ing material for spiking cannon, burning and destroying
buildings, gun carriages, etc., were placed under com-
mand of Lieutenant Hallonquist, acting ordnance officer.
Lieutenant Nelms, adjutant Fifth Georgia regiment, was
attached to this command. The medical officers -who ac-
companied the expedition were: Dr. Micks of the Louis-






28 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

iana infantry; Dr. Tompkins of the Fifth Georgia reg-
iment; Dr. Gholson of the Ninth Mississippi regiment;
Dr. Lipscomb of the Tefith Mississippi regiment, and Dr.
Gamble of the First Florida regiment, and a detail of 2o
men was made to attend on and assist them.
Arriving at Pensacola at about io o'clock p. m. the
transfer of the troops to the steamer Ewing and the barges
and flats which had been provided was pushed on as
rapidly as possible, but not without some unavoidable de-
lay. It was found absolutely necessary to employ the
Neaffie to assist in towing, and at length, all preparations
having been completed, the boats departed from Pensa-
cola at a little after 12 o'clock, crossed the bay, and effected
a landing at the point which had been indicated by in-
structions. Disembarkation was rapidly executed in good
order and silence, and the battalions were formed upon
the beach at a little after a o'clock a. m.
To effectually accomplish the object of the expedition
Colonel Chalmers was directed to advance rapidly along
the north beach, Colonel Anderson along the south beach,
and Colonel Jackson, following a few hundred yards in
the rear of Colonel Chalmers, was to push his command to
the middle of the island, and deploy it as soon as he should
hear firing from either of the other battalions or should
perceive from any other indications that the enemy's camp
was approached or assailed by the other columns. Col-
onels Chalmers and Anderson had been further directed
to endeavor to restrain their men from firing, to capture
guards and sentinels, and to place their commands, if pos-
sible, between Fort Pickens and the camp of the enemy.
Lieutenant Hallonquist followed in rear of Colonel Jack-
son's battalion, with orders to do whatever damage he
could to the batteries, buildings and camps from which
the enemy might be driven.
"After a march of 3 or 4 miles, rendered toilsome and
fatiguing by the nature of the ground, the head of Colonel
Chalmers' column came suddenly upon a sentinel, who






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


fired ineffectually at our troops, and was himself instantly
shot down. The alarm having been thus given, and it
becoming impossible to conceal our advance further from
the enemy, I ordered Colonel Jackson to push his way
through the thickets to the middle of the island, and ad-
vance as rapidly as possible. The guards and outposts of
the Zouaves were now rapidly driven in or shot down, and
the progress of a few hundred yards, quickly accomplished
by Colonel Jackson, brought him upon the camp of the
enemy in advance of either of the other battalions. With-
out a moment's delay he charged it with the bayonet, but


met with no resistance.


The camp was almost entirely


deserted, and our troops speedily applied the torch to the
tents, storehouses and sheds of Wilson's Zouaves.
"In the meantime Colonels Chalmers and Anderson, ad-
vancing along the shores of the island, encountered pick-
ets and outposts, with which they had some sharp skir-
mishing, but quickly beat them off and joined in the work
of destroying the camp. This having been most thor-
oughly executed, the troops were reassembled, with a view


to proceeding against
lay between the camp


and destroying the batteries which
and Fort Pickens; but daylight ap-


pearing, and there being no longer a possibility of a sur-
prise of the batteries, I directed the signal for retiring to
be sounded and the troops to be put in march for the
boats. At about half way between the Zouave camp and
the point of embarkation of our troops'we encountered
two companies of United States regulars, which had passed
us under the cover of the darkness and posted themselves
behind a dense thicket to intercept our retiring column,
and a very sharp but short skirmish ensued. The enemy
was speedily driven off, and our troops resumed their
march. The re-embarkation was successfully accom-
plished, and the order given to the steamers to steer for
Pensacola, when it was discovered that a hawser had be-
come entangled in the propeller of the Neaffie, and that
she could not move.






CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


HISTORY.


After some delay, from ineffectual
tricate the propeller, she and the large fl
in tow were made fast to the Ewing. It
however, that with this incumbrance tl
not obey her helm, and a change in the n
the Neaffie was necessary. While atte
this change the flats and barges which tl


attempts to ex-
at which she had
was soon found,
he Ewing would
manner of towing
tempting to make
he Ewing had in


tow became detached from her, and still further delay was
occasioned in recovering them. By the time this had
been done the hawser was cut away from the propeller and
the Neaffe proceeded on her way. The enemy, taking ad-
vantage of these circumstances, appeared among the sand
hills along the beach and opened a fire upon the masses
of our troops densely crowded upon our transports, but
without doing much execution, and we were soon out of
the range of their rifles. The necessity of using the Neaffie
as a tug, and the accident which for some time disabled
her, prevented her guns from being brought into play,
otherwise she might have rendered effectual service in
driving back the enemy who harassed us from the beach.
Our loss in this affair was as follows: Killed, 2 com-
missioned officers, 4 non-commissioned officers, x i privates
and i citizen volunteer; wounded, 2 commissioned officers,
5 non-commissioned officers, and 32 privates; taken pris-
oners, 5 commissioned officers, 2 non-commissioned offi-
cers, and 23 privates. The larger portion of the officers,
non-commissioned officers and privates captured by the
enemy were the guard left for the protection of their hos-
pital and sick and the medical officers who had remained
in the building to attend to such of our wounded as might
be carried there. Notwithstanding that I caused the sig-
nal for retiring to be repeatedly sounded during the return
of the troops, it was not heard at the hospital, and the
guard and medical officers were cut off and taken prisoners.
The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded has
not been precisely ascertained, but is certainly known to
have much exceeded our own. From such imperfect ob-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


servation as I made in passing over parts of the ground I
will estimate his loss at o5 or 60 killed and' oo wounded.
Twenty prisoners were taken, among them Maj. Israel
Vogdes, of the United States artillery. The destruction
of property in the conflagration was.very great. Large
stores of provisions, supplies of clothing, camp and garri-
son equipage, arms and ammunition, were entirely con-
sumed. Some arms were brought away by our men, and
in a few instances money and clothing, as will be seen by
the report of Colonel Jackson, and I would specially rec-
ommend that the captors be permitted to retain whatever
private property they have taken.
It is with pride and pleasure that I bear testimony to
and call to the notice of the general commanding the ad-
mirable conduct of the troops throughout the expedition


and conflict.
ited by them
give assurance


The alacrity, courage and discipline exhib-
merit the highest recommendation, and
of success in any future encounters which


they may have with the enemies of our country. .
The members of my staff, Capt. T. S. Mills, assistant
adjutant-general, and Capt. Hugh M. King, Fifth regi-
ment Georgia volunteers; Lieuts. Calvin L. Sayre and
Wilber Johnson, C. S. marines, who volunteered their
services and acted as my aides, rendered me active and ef-
ficient assistance throughout the whole of the operations.
Captain Mills, who was with Colonel Anderson's battalion
in its first encounter with the enemy, received a severe
contusion in the chest from a partially spent ball, but never-
theless continued energetically to perform his duties, and
Lieutenant Sayre, while fearlessly using his revolver with
effect, had his thigh bone shattered just above the right
knee by a musket ball, and being left upon the ground,
fell into the hands of the enemy. Capt. Hugh M.
King, in conveying orders and superintending the destruc-
tion of the camp, displayed commendable zealand activity,
and the ardor andintrepidity of Lieutenant Johnson, while
deserving especial notice, give promise of this young of-






32 CONFEDERATE MILITARY

ficer's future success and distinction.
medical staff rendered to the wounded
under the circumstances was possible.
and Jackson pay graceful tribute to
tain Bradford and Lieutenant Nelms,
to which I desire to add my respectful
and for every brave patriot who fell
country's liberties."


HISTORY.

The officers of the
every service which
Colonels Anderson
the memory of Cap-
of their regiments,
admiration for them
with them for their


Col. J. P. Anderson,


in a letter to Governor


of this engagement: "You will have heard
on Santa Rosa island on the morning of the 9th
object of the expedition was fully and con
complished, though the loss of such men as Ca
ford of Florida; Lieutenant Nelms of Georgia
Routh of Tallahassee; Private Tillinghast,
not be compensated for, in my opinion, by the
hilation of Billy Wilson and his whole band of
cut-throats. The Florida regiment had only
the expedition, out of x,o6o, and lost 6 killed,
and I2 prisoners, as follows: Killed: Captai
Sergeant Routh, Privates Tillinghast, Hale,


Milton, said
of the affair
Sinst. The
ipletely ac-
Lptain Brad-
a; Sergeant
etc., would
total anni-
thieves and
xoo men in
8 wounded,
n Bradford,
Thompson


of Apalachicola, and Smith. Wounded: Corporal Lanier,
Privates Echols, McCorkle, Sims, William Denham, Hicks,
Sharrit and O'Neal (Peter, of Pensacola). These are do-
ing well and will recover. Prisoners: Hale and Bond,
Company A; Mahoney and Nichols, Company B; Bev.
Parker and Finley, Company E; Holliman, Godlie, John
Jarvis, M. Mosely, and Batterson, of Company F; also
Lieutenant Parley, Company E. I deeply regret that such
men as Lieutenants Farley, Parker and Finley should
have fallen into the enemy's hands. However, they write
to us that they are well treated, but destiny unknown.
By any civilized nation in the world most of these pris-
oners would be promptly delivered up, for they were taken
while standing as a safeguard over the enemy's hospital
to prevent it from sharing the fate of the balance of the
camp. They protected it from flame and sword most






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 3

scrupulously, but failing to hear the signal to retire, only
remained too faithful to their trust, and have fallen into the
hands of the enemy by so doing. Their names should
illustrate one of the brightest pages of Florida's history."
General Bragg well said of this expedition that it was
a -most daring and successful feat of arms. Landing
from steamers and flats on the enemy's shore within sight
of his fleet, marching some three or four miles in the dark-
ness of night over an unknown and almost impassable
ground under his guns, killing his pickets, storming his
intrenched camp of 6oo or 700 men, driving the enemy off
in utter confusion and dismay, and burning every vestige
of clothing, equipage and provisions, leaving them indi-
vidually in a state of destitution, and this under the close
range of his stronghold, Fort Pickens, without his discov-
ering our object or firing a gun, is an achievement worthy
of the gallant men w o executed it."
Capt Richard Bradford, the highest in rank of those
who fell among the Florida volunteers, was a noble and
chivalrous young man, whose death was deeply mourned
throughout the State. To him and other noble martyrs
sacrificed, on their country's altar, their grateful country-
women have erected a monument on the grounds of the
capitol at Tallahassee, inscribed as follows:
To rescue from Oblivion
And perpetuate in the Memory of succeeding Generations
The heroic Patriotism of the Men
Who perished in the Civil War from i861 to z865.
FLORIDA BATTLES:
Pensacola, Olustee, Natural Bridge, etc.
VIRGINIA BATTLES:
Williamsburg. Seven Pines, Richmond, Cold Harbor, Mannssna
Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Chancellorsville,
Wilderness, Yorktown, etc.
WESTERN BATTLES:
Richmond, Ky., Farmington. Shiloh, Corinth, Green River, Perry-
ville, Chickamauga. Missionary Ridge, Resaca, Gilgal
Church, Cassville. Kenesaw Mountain, Decatur,
Jonesboro, Franklin, etc.
Pla






84 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

The situation at this time outside of the Pensacola re-
gion is described in a letter of October 29th from Gov-
ernor Milton to President Davis, in which he said thai the
Third regiment, commanded by Col. W. S. Dilworth, was
scattered from Fernandina to the mouth of the St. John's,
while the Fourth, composed of eight companies, com-
manded by Col. Edward Hopkins, was stationed part at
St. Vincent's island, part at St. Marks under Captain
Dial, and at the lighthouse near there, and part at Cedar
Keys. The State troops (5oo or 6oo) at Apalachicola were
under command of the governor's aide-de-camp, Col.
Richard F. Floyd.
On the morning of November 2sd began the most im-
posing military demonstration in the history of Florida, the
artillery battle between Fort Pickens-assisted by the men-
of-war Niagara and Richmond, and Fort McRee and other
Confederate batteries. The thunder of the guns contin-,
ned through two days, and considerable damage was done
to the works on each side, the Federal commander testify-
ing that the Confederate fire was "heavy and well direct-
ed." The loss of life was small and the result indecisive,
except as it indicated that the batteries which had been
erected along the coast fronting Pickens could not be
expected to do much more against her than maintain the
defensive.
General Bragg reported that the enemy opened fire
about 9:30 a. m. from Fort Pickens and all his outer
batteries without the slightest warning. His first shots
were directed principally upon the navy yard and Fort
McRee; the former known to be occupied by women and
children and non-combatants, and used by us for defensive
purposes only. In less than half an hour we were re-
sponding, and the enemy distributed his fire on our
"whole line. Soon after Fort Pickens opened two large
naval steamers, supposed to be the Niagara and Hartford,
took position due west from Fort McRee and within good
range, from whence they poured in broadsides of the heav.






CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


HISTORY.


iest metal throughout the day.


ure of Fort McRee it was unable
fire with any effect.
"Assailed at the same time fr
Pickens and its outer batteries, t
this confined work, under the galls
Georgia and Mississippi regiments,


From the defective struct-


to return this terrific

om the south by Fort
he devoted garrison of
mt Colonel Villepigue,
seemed to be destined


to destruction. Three times was the woodwork of the
fort on fire, threatening to expel its occupants, and as
often extinguished. The magazines were laid bare to the
enemy's shells, which constantly exploded around them,
and a wooden building to the windward on the outside
of ,te fort taking fire, showers of live cinders were driven
constantly through the broken doors of one of the mag-
azines, threatening destruction to the whole garrison. In
the midst of this terrible ordeal the coolness and self-pos-
session of the commander inspired all with confidence,
and enabled him to hold a position which seemed to others
utterly untenable. S
"Toward evening our sand batteries appeared to have
crippled the Hartford [Richmond], and she drew off and
did not again join in the combat. Darkness closed the
contest, which had lasted more than eight hours without
an intermission. For the number and caliber of guns-and
weight of metal brought into action it will rank with the
heaviest bombardment in the world. It was grand and
sublime. The houses in Pensacola, o miles off, trembled
from the effect, and immense quantities of dead fish floated
to the surface in the bay and lagoon, stunned by the con-
cussion. Our troops behaved with the greatest coolness
and gallantry, and surprised me by the regularity and
accuracy of their firing, a result which would have been
creditable to veterans.
"A dark cloud, accompanied by rain and wind, at 6
o'clock so obscured the night as to enable us to withdraw
in safety our transport steamers, which had been caught
at the navy yard. The gunboat Nelms, Lieutenant Man-





CONFEDERATE MILITARY
CONFEDERA TE MILITARY


HISTORY.


ston, Louisiana infantry, commanding, was also at the
yard when the firing commenced; but she was gallantly
backed out, and proceeded to Pensacola unharmed. The fire
of the enemy, though terrific in sound and fury, proved to
have been only slightly damaging, except to McRee. From
Fort Pickens and the sand batteries we sustained very
little injury. From the shipping,'which fired with much
greater accuracy, the fort and garrison of McRee suffered
more.
"Our loss from the enemy's shot was a2 wounded-
i mortally, who died that night; 12 of the others so
slightly as not to take them from duty. By an unfortunate
accident-the caving in of a defective magazine badly


planned and constructed-we
smothered, who died calling on
up the fort. Our women and -
shower of balls without an acci<
in during the night by my staff


had 6 other gallant men
their comrades never to give
children escaped through a


lent. The reports
officers, dispatched


point, were very satisfactory and encouraging
from Fort McRee. Exposed in front, flank and
with half its armament disabled and magazines
without the ability to return the enemy's fire, it
posed to blow it up and abandon it. Upon matul
tion as to the effect this would have on the mora
own troops as well as the enemy, I determined t


to the last extremity. An engineer
Working party were dispatched to Colod
the decision. Though suffering from


brought
to every
,except
reverse,
exposed,
was pro-


re
le
,o


r
hc


officer and 1
el Villepigue
a painful wo


flec-
f my
ld it
arge
with
und,


he devoted the entire nightto the necessary repairs. It
was not our policy to keep up this unequal contest at long
range, so we waited the enemy's fire the next morning.
"At about 10:30 he again opened, though much more
slowly, and with only one ship. We responded, as before,
with caution and deliberation. Their fire was so much
slackened that our apprehension about McRee was greatly
relieved, and our sand batteries played with a better
prospect of success against the remaining ship. Toward





CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 37
evening the enemy finding all his efforts foiled that our
guns were not silenced and McRee not reduced as he
had predicted, turned upon the hospital and put several
shots idto the empty building (the sick having all been
removed in anticipation of this barbarous act). The evac-
uation, however, was not known to them. All the ap-
pearance of occupation was kept up; the yellow flag was
still flying. After this he poured hot shot into the dwell-
ings of non-combatants in the village of Warrington and
Woolsey, by which considerable portions of each were
burned. The navy yard, too, received a large supply of
these shot and a shower of mortar shells until past mid-
night, but only one unimportant building was fired, though
many houses were struck and more or less damaged.
Notwithstanding thousands of shot and shell fell in and
around our positions, not a casualty occurred in the whole
army for the day. Our fire ceased at dark, except an
occasional shell as a warning that we were on the alert,
the last shot being ours, about 4 a. m. on the 24th.
"We had fired about x,ooo shots, the enemy not less
than 5, ooo. There are no means of knowing or conjectur-
ing the loss or damage inflicted on them, but we believe
it to have been very considerable. They certainly did
not accomplish the object they had in view nor fulfill the
expectations of their government. The injury to our side
was the loss in killed and wounded given above; a few
hundred dollars' damage.done to the navy yard; the burn-
ing of two churches surmounted by the holy cross-the first
buildings fired-and. ome twenty humble habitations of
poor laboring men and women, mostly emigrants from
the North; and finally, a violation of our hospital flag, in
accordance with a previous threat. This last act stamps its
author with infamy and places him beyond the pale of
civilized commanders. As they did not renew the action,
and drew off with their ships in a crippled condition, our
fire was not reopened on Fort Pickens, to damage which is
not our object A fair challenge, however, was offered






38 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

them on the 27th, when a small rowboat attempting to
"enter the harbor was fired on by us and abandoned by
them. Several of our shots necessarily passed very near
their works, but they declined our invitation. .
"This would seem not an improper occasion to place on
record an expression of the admiration and gratitude I
feel for the noble, self-sacrificing spirit which has ever
pervaded the whole of this gallant little army. Called
suddenly from home, without preparation, to serve an
unorganized government, in the midst of country destitute
of supplies, it has patiently and without a murmur sub-
mitted to privations and borne labors which can never be
appreciated. Consigned by fate to inactivity when their
brothers elsewhere, later in entering the service, were
reaping a harvest of glory, they have still nobly sustained
their commander and maintained a well-deserved reputa-
tion for discipline rarely equaled, never surpassed. With
a people capable of such sacrifices we may defy the
world in arms. But in giving this praise to human virtue
let us not be unmindful of an invisible Power which has
ruledallthingsforour good. The hand of disease and death
has been lightly laid upon us at a place and in a season
when we had reason to expect much suffering and great
mortality. And in the hour of our trial the missiles of
death, showered upon us by an infuriated enemy, respect-
ing neither women, children nor the sick, have been so
directed as to cause us to laugh at their impotent rage.
Verily, 'Except the Lord keep the city, the watchman
walketh but in vain.' "
After this great artillery demonstration all was compar-
atively quiet at Pensacola harbor until the afternoon of
January x, i86a, when the Federals opened fire on a small
private steamer that had imprudently run to the navy
yard. In the absence of General Bragg the Confederate bat-
teries returned the fire, and a brisk cannonade was kept up
until dark. The main damage done on shore was the burn-
ing of a large and valuable storehouse in the navy yard.






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 9
Late in February the disasters in Tennessee and Ken-
tucky persuaded the war department to authorize the
abandonment ofthe Florida ports, and General Bragg, who
had been transferred to Mobile, ordered General Samuel
Jones, then in charge at Pensacola, to make dispositions
at the earliest moment, working night and day, to aban-
don the works, removing the heavy guns with ammuni-
tion to Mobile, and other supplies to Montgomery. His
instructions were: "I desire you particularly to leave
nothing the enemy can use; burn all from Fort McRee
to the junction with the Mobile road. Save the guns,
and if necessary destroy our gunboats and other boats.
They might be used against us. Destroy all machinery,
etc., public and private, which could be useful to the
enemy; especially disable the sawmills in and around the
bay, and burn the lumber. Break up the railroad from
Pensacola to the junction, carrying the iron up to a safe
point."
General Jones immediately afterward succeeded Bragg
in department command, and his plan of evacuation, as he
stated, differed from Bragg's only in this: that he would
detail Col T. M. Jones and a few hundred men to ac-
complish the destruction as soon as an overpowering attack
was made. Colonel Jones, left in command, sent out the
valuable property as rapidly as possible until he was in-
formed of the fall of New Orleans, when he removed the
remaining heavy guns and ammunition, leaving the forti-
fications practically defenseless. On May 7th he was in-
formed of Federal demonstrations at Mobile harbor, and
determined to evacuate at once. All the sick and baggage
were sent out on the 8th, and on the night of the 9th the
infantry marched out toward Oakfield, leaving several
companies of cavalry to begin the necessary destruction
at a given signal. Precisely at 11:30 two blue lights
were set off by Colonel Jones at the hospital, and
were promptly answered with similar lights at the navy
yard, Barrancas and Fort McRee, and scarcely had the






40 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.

signals disappeared," said Colonel Jones, ere the public
buildings, camp tents, and every other combustible thing
from the navy yard to Fort McRee were enveloped in a
sheet of flames, and in a few minutes the flames of the
public property could be distinctly seen at Pensacola.
The custom house and commissary storehouses were not
destroyed for fear of endangering private property, a
thing I scrupulously avoided.
"As soon as the enemy could possibly man his guns
and load them, he opened upon us with the greatest fury,
and seemed to increase his charges as his anger increased.
But in spite of bursting shell, which were thrown with
great rapidity and in every direction, the cavalry pro-
ceeded with the greatest coolness to make the work of
destruction thorough and complete, and see that all orders
were implicitly obeyed. Their orders were to destroy all
the camp tents, Fort McRee and Fort Barrancas as far
as possible, the hospital, the houses in the navy yard, the
steamer Fulton, the coal left in the yard, all the machin-
ery for drawing out ships, the trays, shears-in fact every-
thing which could be made useful to the enemy. .
All the powder and most of the large shot and shell
were removed; the small-sized shot were buried. I suc-
ceeded in getting away all the most valuable machinery,
besides large quantities of copper, lead, brass and iron;
even the gutters, lightning rods, window weights, bells,
pipes, and everything maje of these valuable metals were
removed." At Pensacola an oil factory was burned, the
quartermaster's storehouses, some small boats, and three
small steamers used as guard boats, and transports. The
Federal troops took possession of the ruins of the navy
yard and forts the next day, and on May 12, i86a, a force
marched to Pensacola and raised the United States flag,
beginning a hostile occupation which continued without
interruption during the remainder of the war.
The presence of the Federal forces was soon made
forcibly apparent to the people of the surrounding coun-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY 41

try. Reconnoitering parties were sent out toward the
positions of the Confederate troops -t Bluff Springs and
Pollard, Ala. About the middle of May some Confeder-
ate cavalrymen in Milton were assailed by a force sent to
that village by boat, and a brisk fight occurred in the
town. Three cavalrymen, three citizens of Milton and two
negroes were carried away by the enemy.
The general plan of abandoning the coast involved
other Florida points in addition to Pensacola. Fernandina
was evacuated in March, x862, and the well-constructed
defenses abandoned. The town of St. Augustine was sur-
rendered on March x i,'x862,to Commander Rodgers,of the
Federal flag-ship Wabash, and on the next day Jackson-
ville peacefully capitulated.










CHAPTER III.

ORGANIZATION OP REGIMENTS-SECOND INFANTRY-
THIRD INFANTRY-FOURTH INFANTRV-FIRST CAV-
ALRY-SECOND CAVALRY-MARION LIGHT ARTIL-
LERY-EVENTS OF x862 AND z863.
DURING the operations about Pensacola narrated
in the previous chapter, the organization of troops
continued throughout the State. Simultaneous
with the formation of the First Florida regiment there
was a gathering of the clans from all quarters; company
after company organizing and forming into.battalions of
infantry to be eventually consolidated into regiments anid
brigades. Before the expiration of two years after the
State had seceded, there were eight infantry and two cav-
airy regiments, besides independent companies enough to
form two.regiments of infantry that had been ordered by
the secretary of war to other States, where-they remained
in active service until the close of the war. When the
armies of Lee and Johnston surrendered the survivors of
thousands of Florida's valiant sons were paroled who,
through all the battles of the army of Tennessee and in
all the Virginia campaigns after thd first battle of Manas-
sas, had fought with a gallantry and unfaltering fidelity
that will ever reflect luster upon their State's proud roll
of honor.
On account of the heavy demand for troops made by
the war department, the State forces were comparatively
weak for the protection of her territory with its extended
line of seacoast. From accounts given by veterans
who were identified with these forces we learn that they
consisted of one battalion of cavalry, eight companies of
independent cavalry, two battalions of infantry, three in.
42






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 4
dependent companies of infantry and two artillery com-
panies. The aggregate was not more than x,8oo effective
men, scarcely one man to every mile of coast exposed to
the power of the enemy.
The second regimental organization of infantry, de-
signed for service in Virginia, was begun early in April,
1861, soon making tip the complement of ten companies
which were destined to win a name and fame for their
State on the fields of the Old Dominion. The Second
infantry went into encampment near the "Brick church,"
about a mile from Jacksonville, almost exactly where
La Villa junction now stands, until the x3th of July,
x86j, when they were mustered into the Confederate
States service by Maj. -Wm. T. Stockton. On Monday,
the i5th of July, they left Jacksonville by rail for Vir-
ginia, arriving in Richmond on Sunday afternoon, the
memorable 2ist of July, just as the wires were flashing
the news of the great victory achieved by the Confeder-
ates at Manassas.
Next in readiness for service was the Third Florita
regiment of infantry, organized early in August, z86i,
under a call from President Davis for two additional
regiments to assist in the defense of the Florida coast.
It was composed of ten companies of the most prominent
citizens from counties in south, east, middle and west
Florida, some of them having formed part of the volun-
teer militia of the State before the war. Among them
were the Jacksonville Light infantry, St. Augustine Blues
and Jefferson Rifles Others of the companies had been
organized under the State law after the war became im-
minent, and many of them had been called out for tem-
porary service before they were accepted to be mustered
in as a part of the provisional army of the Confederate
States. For this latter purpose they were rendezvoused
on Amelia island, except the companies from Duval and
St. John's, which were on duty in their own counties. The
regiment saw little active service during the first year of






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


its organization, b
formed by them
up sand batteries
strengthening th4


rut a great
and other
on Amelia
e eastern


deal of hard labor was per-
volunteer troops in throwing
and Talbot islands, and thus
part of the State. But one


skirmish was had with the enemy in that section, which
resulted in the loss of their noble lieutenant, Thomas
Strange, a veteran of the Mexican war and a gallant and
efficient officer. He had been sent with a small recon-
noitering party to the vicinity of Jacksonville, and was
killed after capturing a Federal post. The two Jefferson
companies, under Capt. D. B. Bird, were ordered during
the winter of x861-62 to New Smyrna, to protect the gov-
ernment stores which were brought into Halifax river
from Nassau.
On March 26, i862, a detachment made up mostly from
these two companies, while on duty at the beach on
Amelia island, under Captain Strain, who had succeeded
Captain Girardeau in command of Company H, attacked
some launches which were attempting to land from the
blockading fleet to destroy our stores. The fight resulted
in the loss of several of the boats, and most of the occu-
pants were killed, wounded or captured. After the'evac-
uation of Pernandina the companies not engaged in the
Smyrna expedition were stationed at Cedar Keys, where,
by their experience in the hardships and discipline of camp
life, they were prepared for the arduous service which
awaited them later in the war when assigned to duty in the
army of Tennessee. During the operations of this com-
mand in Florida, the field officers were Wm. S. Dilworth,
colonel; Arthur T. Wright, lieutenant-colonel; and Lu-
cius S. Church, major. Colonel Dilworth had enlisted as
a private in the Jefferson Beauregards, Lieutenant-Col-
onel Wright had been in command of the Columbia and
Suwannee Guards, and Major Church was a lieutenant in
the Madison Grey Eagles.
Early in the spring of 186i ten more companies of vol-
unteers were organized as the Fourth Florida regiment





CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 45

of infantry, and at once assigned to duty in the State,
where they showed a devotion and daring that entitled
them to the highest commendation. Company F, Cap-
tain Williams, from Bradford county, was sent to Cedar
Keys in June, where Company C, of the Second Florida,
under Capt. Walter R. Moore, was stationed. On the
4th of July, i86i, details from these two companies went
aboard the steamer Madison to make an attack on certain
vessels lying out in the gulf, and captured three schoon-
ers Companies D, E and K of the regiment were sta-
tioned on the coast of Tampa bay, a very isolated and un-
protected part of the country, having no railroad commu-
nication with the interior of the State; Companies B, C
and I at St. Marks, a very important fishing point and
port for shipping lumber and other stores; Company F at
Cedar Keys, and H and G at Fernandina until the evac-
uation of that place in March, I862, when they were or-
dered to Camp Langford in the vicinity of Jacksonville.
The enemy having landed at Jacksonville soon after the
occupation of Fernandina by the Federal forces about the
x2th of March, on the night of the 24th Lieutenant
Strange of Company H, and C. H. Ross and Frank Ross
of Company I, Third Florida regiment, with ten volun,
teers, attacked the Federal picket at the "Brick Church,"
killing four and capturing three. In this skirmish Lieu-
tenant Strange was mortally wounded. Soon after this
event the Fourth Florida was ordered to Corinth, Miss.
.While these organizations of infantry were being
effected, other volunteer companies were formed of men
who desired to enlist in another and very essential branch
of the service in a country so open to invasion, and they
were soon ready to be united into independent battalions
and regiments of cavalry. In a State whose line of sea-
coast, washed by the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico,
was more than 1,2oo miles in extent-with no gunboats
and cruisers to protect her seaport towns, neither ade-
quate shore batteries-the defense of the territory required






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


great skill and sagacity in the disposition of our military
forces at or near these exposed points and great activity
in the troops, and for this purpose our cavalry was espe-


cially fitted, as they could bear up
marches through forests and swamps
During the latter part of the terrible
a great bulwark of protection to our


better under long
than the infantry.
e conflict they were
homes from large


invading forces that would attempt to march into the
interior. Constantly were they on the alert, continuously
engaged in scouting and skirmishing, bearing a valuable
part in the defense of the most important sections of
the State, moving with a rapidity and accuracy which
seemed incredible to the enemy. Many of their brilliant
exploits are vividly remembered with a thrill of pride:
such as their defeat and capture of large bodies of infantry,
cavalry and artillery, and their occasional capture of posts
on the east side of the St. John's river, which portion of
the State had been in possession of the Federals since our
evacuation of Fernandina and St. John's bluff.
The companies forming the First Florida cavalry, com-
manded by Cot G. W. M. Davis at its first organization,
were encamped for several months at Camp Davis, about
six miles from Tallahassee, performing all the duties
necessary for military training, by which discipline they
were admirably fitted for the perilous services assigned
to them in the army of Tennessee, where they were dis-
tinguished for their intrepid gallantry and fortitude in the
battles of Richmond, Perryville, Chickamauga and Mis-
sionary Ridge. After the abandonment of the coast de-
fenses early in z862, several gunboats passed the fortifi-
cations at the mouth of the St. Tohn's river and Yellow


bluff, anchored in front of Jacksonville and landed a
considerable force. Colonel Davis was ordered to send a
detachment of his cavalry to Camp Langford, near the
city, to aid in meeting this emergency. He sent Lieut -
CoL George Troupe Maxwell, with the greater part of the
regiment, to- take part in the anticipated conflict. They





CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 47

were soon on the line of march for the first time to meet
the invaders of Florida soil. On their arrival scouts were
sent out to reconnoiter, who reported that a strong picket-
guard was stationed at the "Brick church." A small
command under Lieutenant Strange of the Third Florida
was ordered to capture the guard,-if possible without
bloodshed. Thus began the first encounter in which this
regiment engaged. The Federal picket guard, though
about half our number, wounded several of our men be-
fore they gave up the post It was in this engagement
that Lieutenant Strange was mortally wounded. Soon
after the enemy retired to the gunboats and Jacksonville
was evacuated. It would have been of no advantage to
the Confederates to occupy the town, as the gunboats
could have at any time shelled- the place and destroyed
many homes of helpless citizens who were unable to
leave. The regiment soon returned to its encampment
near Tallahassee, remaining there a short time, when it
was ordered to Chattanooga to join the army of Tennes-
see under Gen. Braxton Bragg.
The Second Florida cavalry, made up of prominent cit-
izens from all parts of the State, was not organized into
a regiment until after the evacuation of Fernandina. As
independent companies they had been doing valuable
service in defense of the middle, western and eastern
portions of the State. Prominent among the squadrons
operating in west and middle Florida, supporting Dun-
ham's, Abel's and Gamble's artillery, was CoL George
W. Scott's battalion. Two companies had been detached
and assigned to duty on the west side of the Chattahoo-
chee river to protect the country lying between that point
and Pensacola from raiding expeditions. Independent
companies under Captains Thigpen, Smith, Blocker,
Milton, with Partridge's, Leigh's, Smith's, Turner's and
Pickett's independent cavalry, assisted by several other
independent companies, were employed for the protection
of other important points lying on the west side of the






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Suwannee river. The counties lying between and be-
yond these rivers possessed great productive capacity,
and the character of their supplies made them of inesti-
mable value to the State and to the Confederacy; there-
fore the occupation of this territory was greatly desired
by the enemy, and only by a judicious disposition of our
forces could there be any security against the advance of
raiding parties guided by deserters who were familiar
with the country round. Many important points on the
Gulf coast, Pensacola, Apalachicola, St. Joseph's and St.
Andrew's bays, were blockaded and unprotected.
On the west side of the Chattahoochee river our forces,
though 'comparatively small for the duty required, were
able to keep the enemy at bay for a long period, no dem-
onstrations being made to call them into any serious con-
flict with .the Federal troops, then in safe possession of
Pensacola, the most valuable stronghold on the extreme
western coast.
Dunham's battery, which had been received into the
service in March, 1862, and was at this time stationed
near the Chattahoochee river, prevented the enemy from
ascending the river to effect a landing, but as soon as the


water
its na
river,


fell in the Apalachicola river so low as to prevent
vigation, the battery was removed to the St. John's
where the enemy was in large force, and used to


cover the erection of a battery on St. John's bluff, five
miles from the bar, to prevent the enemy ascending the
river higher than that point. This movement was suc-
cessfully accomplished and the enemy repulsed after four
hours' hard fighting, the Confederates holding for a time
possession of the river from that point up. Captain Dun-
ham, by his admirable management of his splendid bat-
tery, performed an important part in the engagement.
Gen. William A. Owens, who had some years previous
moved from South Carolina, and was an honored citizen
of Marion county and one of the largest planters in the
State, organized in 1861 the first volunteer independent





CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


company of cavalry in Marion
Marion Dragoons, composed of


HIS


county,
material


TORY 49

known as the
not surpassed


in any part of the Confederate States. Their personnel
was so superb, their horsemanship so splendid, and their
equipment of such superior quality, that Gen. R. E.
Lee, while on a visit of inspection to the troops and for-
tifications on the island of Fernandina, paid them a high
compliment, saying that "they were the finest looking
and most superbly mounted company he had seen, not
excepting the Black Horse cavalry of Virginia." This
command was enrolled in the Confederate States army
and assigned to duty in the summer of 1861 at Fernan-
dina. The officers in command were Wm. A. Owens,
captain; Wm. C. Chambers, first lieutenant; Samuel
Ross, second lieutenant; and A. McCormick, third lieuten-
ant. The company remained on duty until the evacuation
of the island. Owing to impaired health Captain Owens
resigned the command and retired to his plantation home
to begin another work essential to the well-being of a
community: devoting his time and energies to the mate-
rial support of the cause,' the protection of the neighbor-
hoods around, and caring for the helpless families whose
protectors were in the field. His nobly generous soul
ever cherished a patriotic pride in the career of the gal-
lant men who had once formed his military family, and
who were greatly endeared to him by the warm friendship
existing and their high estimate of him as a true patriot
and noble gentleman. The Dragoons, after the resigna-
tion of their beloved commander, were divided into two
companies, Lieutenant Chambers being appointed cap-
tain of one command and Lieutenant Rou captain of the
other. By this arrangement there were nine independ-
ent companies of cavalry, and the tenth was formed by
special order of General Finegan, authorizing Capt. J. J.
Dickison to raise a company of cavalry to make up the
complement for a regiment to be mustered into the Con-


la 4






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


federate States army for three years or the war, as the
Second Florida regiment of cavalry.
Some time previous to this, Maj. J. J. Dickison, a cit-
izen of Marion county, fitted for cavalry service as a staff
oftier of General Hardee while a citizen of South Caro-
lina, had engaged in recruiting soldiers for independent
cavalry service in the Confederate army. Before his
company was complete a proposition was made by Capt.
J. M. Martin, a graduate of the Charleston military
school, who preferred artillery service, that the company
be changed to artillery. This was agreed to, provided
he would accept the position of captain, to which proposal
he assented. It was then organized at Ocala as the
Marion Light Artillery, with John M. Martin, cap-
tain; J. J. Dickison, first lieutenant; R. P. McCants,
second lieutenant, and Wm. Tidwell, third lieutenant
On the 4th of November, x861, the company was.or-
dered by Governor Milton to Fernandina, and instructed
to call on Col. D. P. Holland for the battery of field
pieces in his possession belonging to the State of Florida,
with all its equipment, and to report to Brigadier-General
Trapier, commanding district of Florida. In the absence
of Captain Martin, Lieutenant Dickison reported the
command to Col. Charles Hopkins, then in command of
the, post, and was received by him into the Colifederate
States army. On the 21St of November Lieutenant


Dickison reported first and second lieutenants
with 6 non-commissioned officers, 45 privates
horses, with certainty of 29 additional privates
requisite number of horses, the remaining officers
in a few days with a roll of xo6 men. He was
dered by Colonel Dilworth, commanding the dep
to make requisition on the quartermaster and


sary, the company having been
erate service as field artillery
regiment of Florida volunteers.


present
and 26
with the
toarrive
then or-
artment,
commis-


received into the Confed-
and attached to the Third


The company remained on Amelia island about five






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 51

months. On the concentration of the enemy's gunboats
in good view of the island, General Trapier deemed it
advisable to remove his forces to the mainland, as our
defensive works, consisting mostly of sand batteries, were
not impregnable. During the evacuation of the island
the gunboats came up and shelled the trains as they were
moving freighted with our troops and many citizens who
sought refuge in the interior. The only casualties were
the killing of two worthy and prominent citizens, As
couriers were continually coming in with reports that the
enemy were landing, the artillery was kept ready for any
emergency and was ordered from place to place to inter-
cept the invaders. For a short time this command en-
camped near the St. Mary's river and thence were ordered
to Sanderson, where, from the unprecedented severity of
the weather, they suffered privation and much sickness,
which resulted in several deaths from measles and pneu-
monia. From this point they were ordered to Camp
Langford, thence to Three-mile branch in the vicinity
of Jacksonville, where they remained faithful sentinels
on the outpost until the latter part of May, at which time
the company was reorganized.
In June, x862, a telegram was received from the war
department ordering Captain Martin to proceed to Dalton
in supporting distance of Chattanooga. On their arrival
they did not long remain inactive, being soon ordered to
join Gen. Kirby Smith, and doing most effective service
in their first and most important fight at Richmond, Ky.
On this memorable occasion the gallant and heroic Martin
was seriously and at the time feared to be mortally
wounded. Our brave Johnson, Tidwell, Boring and Hols-
houser were killed early in the engagement, nobly dis-
playing the valor and chivalry of men devoted to a sacred
cause. At this battle, the Marion light artillery was
the only corps from Florida present, and was placed in a
most conspicuous position. Gen. Kirby Smith briefly ad-
dressed them just as the fight commenced, and in his own





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


eloquent manner appealed to the corps to maintain the
honor of their State in the coming fight, and nobly did
they respond to the appeal. The battery was immedi-
ately moved forward into the hottest part of the battle,
and by its efficiency contributed in no small degree to the
glorious achievements of that memorable day.
How fiercely that battery was hurled on the foe
Where the minie ball hissed and where hurtled the shell;
Too severe was our fire-the foe are in flight-
And our noble chief said, with voice clear and loud,
'You have won us the fight, our Florida's proud.' "


On recovering from his wound,


Captain Martin


turned to his command in the West and remained at his
post until elected a member of Congress. After serving
two terms he desired to engage again in active service in
the field and was assigned to duty in Florida, with a com-
mand of six independent companies of infantry, which
were eventually consolidated into the Ninth Florida
regiment and ordered to Virginia, where they were des-
tined to pass through many sanguinary conflicts, coming


forth from their baptism of
honor andidistinction that c<
federate soldier-the highest
At the reorganization of
Lieutenant Dickison, prefer
drqw from the command, and
the order, previously mention
to raise a cavalry company to


fire and blood with all the
would be desired by the Con-
type of a patriot in arms.
the Marion light artillery
ing cavalry service, with-
it was then that he received
ed, from General Finegan,
complete the Second Flor-


ida cavalry regiment, to be mustered into the Confederate
State's service for three years or for the war. The new com-
pany which he formed was composed of citizens from the
counties of Marion, Alachua, St. John, Putnam, Brad-
ford, Duval, Columbia, Clay, Volusia, Sumter, Hillsboro,
Nassau and Madison. It was organized in August,
1862, at Flotard pond and mustered in by Maj. R. B.
Thomas, adjutant and inspector-general on General Fin-


egan's staff,


electing


as its officers J. J.


Dickison,






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 58

tain; W. H. McCardell, first lieutenant; D. S. Brantly,
second lieutenant; M. J. McEaddy, third lieutenant;
with 5 sergeants, 4 corporal afnd 63 privates. During the
period 1862-63 the roll was increased to 70 privates and
changes made in rank of officers. Dr. J. A. Williams
held the position of surgeon until the close of the war.
From Flotard pond they moved toGainesville, remaining
there a week, procuring arms and ammunition, the horses
being private property; thence to Jacksonville, where
they did picket and other duty for several weeks, and
later were ordered to, Yellow bluff, and thence to Camp
Finegan.
After the enemy began demonstrations o4 the St.
John's the command was ordered to Palatka, 75 miles
from Jacksonville. While dn the march they captured a
large number of negroes who were endeavoring to escape
to the enemy, and by this timely capture discovered a
plot which had been set on foot to drain that part of the
country of slaves. They also captured a number of de-
serters. A small scouting party was sent from Palatka
in the direction of St. Augustine, where they captured
i lieutenant, 2 non-commissioned officers and 2 privates.
Information being received that the Federal troops
were in the habit of visiting at the Fairbank place,
about one and a half miles from St. Augustine, Captain
Dickison crossed the San Sebastian river early in Octo-
ber, x862, and proceeded to the point where it was ex-
pected the enemy would appear. Theydid not come out
in usual force or at the usual time. Six companies, about
350 strong, had crossed the San Sebastian river four miles
below the point at which our forces had crossed, to cap-
ture our wagon train and cut off the escape of our forces.
A detachment of our command held them in check until
the train was drawn off, when Captain Dickisoil came
up with his detachment and captured their rear guard of
1 officer and 26 men. The enemy held their position for
several hours, then fell back in the direction of St. Au-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


gustine, without doing any injury to the Confederates, 43
in number, who had so gallantly repulsed them. The
next night our command returned to\Palatka and was
ordered to Jacksonville where they engaged in several
hot skirmishes. Soon afterward being sent back to
Palatka, they engaged the transport Mary Benton, with
500 negro troops under Lieutenant-Colonel Billings,
March 27, i863. This officer was wounded and about 75
killed and wounded, without loss on our side. The fol-
lowing day Jacksonville was evacuated. For several
months afterward the company guarded all the country
from St. Augustine to Smyrna. This duty being too
heavy the command was reinforced by Company C, Capt.
Wm. C. Chambers, and did good work protecting the
landing of supplies from our blockade runners.
In the meantime the enemy's gunboats were concen-
trating in the St. John's river, and the Confederates, hav-
ing neither naval forces nor batteries at the time on the
river, could make no resistance. Jacksonville was in
possession of the enemy, affording opportunity to land at
pleasure a large army. Fernandina was held by them,
a valuable stronghold, where they could concentrate
troops and at any time advance with a force of 15,ooo to
20,ooo troops into the heart of the country, our forces
having been greatly depleted by the call of troops to
Virginia and the western army.
In the winter of 1863 Captain Dickison was ordered
to Fort Meade to act in concert with Colonel Brevard,
who was sent to take command of a battalion near that
point as the enemy was in considerable force in the
neighborhood of Fort Myers. At this critical time the
enemy, learning of the scattered state of our troops and
being strongly' fortified by reinforcements from Hilton
Head, made rapid preparations for an invasion of the
State, anticipating an easy capture of Lake City, a per-
manent occupation of that region and a triumphant march
on to Tallahassee, the capital, where they could be in






CONFEDERATE MILITARY
% &I


HISTORY.


communication with the Federal forces at the Gulf ports.
With such co-operation the whole State would be occu-
pied by the Federal army.
Before reaching Fort Meade Colonel Brevard was or-
dered to return with his troops, in anticipation of the bat-
tle of Olustee. After a march day and night of 575
miles with little rest, they were too late by twelve hours
to take part in the battle.
A frightful disaster which signalized the spring of x863
in west Florida was the explosion of the boilers of the.
gunboat Chattahoochee. This vessel, carrying six guns,
had been built for the protection of the river whose name
she bore, and at the time of the accident was lying at an-
chor 25 miles above Apalachicola. On May 3oth Com-
mander John J. Guthrie was informed that nine Federal
launches had come up the river and captured the schooner
Fashion, loading with cotton, and he immediately or-
dered steam up to go to the assistance of the schooner.
In a few moments the boilers of the gunboat exploded,
sinking the vessel, killing if, persons and severely scald-
ing many others. Among those who lost their lives
was Midshipman Mallory, who had distinguished himself
by pushing his way first aboard the frigate Congress at
Hampton Roads, after she had struck her colors to the
Virginia. The guns of the Chattahoochee were taken
off and mounted in battery on the shore, and reinforce-
ments being sent down by General Cobb, then in com-
mand in that district, the enemy was prevented from tak-


ing advantage of the disaster. In a
boat was raised and repaired so that
thereafter in defending the river,


ort time the gun-
he was of service











CHAPTER IV.
THE OLUSTEE CAMPAIGN -FORMIDABLE FEDERAL
MOVEMENT-DESIGN TO ESTABLISH A NEW STATE
GOVERNMENT-CONCENTRATION OF CONFEDERATE
FORCES-CRUSHING DEFEAT OF THE' ENEMY-
OPERATIONS FOLLOWING THE BATTLE.
N the winter of 1863-64 Florida was an inviting field
to Federal aggression. The few Confederate troops
left in the State were scattered over the vast extent
of territory they gallantly sought to defend, and it ap-
peared that a strong body of Federal soldiers could with
little opposition advance into the center of the heart of
the State, expel the regularly constituted authorities
from the capital, and organize a quasi-State government
which should recognize the supremacy of the United
States. In a letter to General Gilmore, commanding on
the coast, dated January 13, 1864, President Lincoln
authorized such a proceeding on the ground that "an
effort is being made by some worthy gentlemen to recon-
struct a loyal State government in Florida," and he sent
his private secretary, Mr. John Hay, with "some blank
books and other blanks to aid in the reconstruction."
Accordingly General Gilmore, on February 5th, ordered
Gen. Truman Seymour to proceed with a division of
troops from Hilton Head to Jacksonville. Admiral Dahl-
gren sailed with a squadron of five gunboats to escort the
transports, and the expedition of about 7,ooo men, includ-
ing cavalry, infantry and artillery, was landed at Jackson-
ville on February 7, 1864. On the receipt of this intelli-
gence, General Finegan, then in command of the forces,
immediately notified Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick,
who had an effective force of near 350 men of all arms at
Camp Finegan, to guard against a surprise.
56






. CONFEDERA TE MILITARY HISTORY.


"On the night of the 8th," General Finegan reported,
"the enemy advanced from Jacksonville with great rapid-
ity in three columns, cavalry in the advance, artillery and
infantry following, under command of Brigadier-General
Seymour. They approached Camp Finegan as the com-
mand there were in the act of retiring. Their largely
superior numbers deterred Lieutenant-Colonel Mc-
Cormick from attacking them, and in the darkness of


the nigh
address
Ocean p
enemy v
ing on 1
Milton


t he
and
ond
vith
the
lighl


Baldwin. T
continuing tl


At this
under
whom
lantry
Mary's
erable


withdrew his command
joined me at Camp
on the Olustee, on the
celerity pressed on to
way five guns of Com
t artillery, which had
hey remained at Baldw
heir march on to Barber'


point they
Maj. Robert
I had ordered'
checked the
crossing wi
loss to the e


government stores
of corn, which was


were met by
Harrison,


two co
Second


with caution and
Beauregard, near
13th inst. The
Baldwin, captur-
panies A and B,
been ordered to


in a short time,
s the same night.
npanies of cavalry
Florida cavalry,


d to join me, and who with much gal-
ir progress for several hours at St.
th but small loss to us and a consid-
enemy. On the 9th I removed all the
from Sanderson except I,5oo bushels
burned under my orders.


"On the ioth the enemy reached Sanderson.
xzth they were within 3 miles of Lake City. I
had hastily collected, principally from the district o
die Florida, a small force of 490 infantry, io c
and two pieces of artillery. On the night of the
placed this force in a favorable position two and


)n the
lere I
if mid-
avalry
ioth I
a half


miles from Lake City, in the direction of the enemy. At
9:30 the enemy advanced upon us with a force estimated
to be 1,400 mounted infantry and five pieces of artery.
Here they opened upon us,fighting as infantry, and skir-
mished heavily with my advance line. Discovering my
position and its strength and probably presuming my
force larger than it was, they retreated to Sanderson,






58 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY

thence to Barber's on the east side of the St Mary's
river, where they constructed field works and concen-
trated their whole force for a final movement on Lake City.
In the meantime I used every possible effort to gather
reinforcements, and on the x3th moved to Ocean Pond on
Olustee."
On the x3th General Finegan reported that the cavalry
command of Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick, which
was charged upon by the enemy and dispersed at Camp
Finegan on the night of the 8th inst., had nearly all
reached him. He also said:
"This expedition is really formidable, and, organized as


it is with so large a
threatens disastrous
sufficient force. Th
position on the St.
cavalry to prevent


force of cavalry or mounted infantry,
results unless checked at once by a
ey are now fortifying Baldwin and a
Mary's river. I should have more
their superior mounted force from


making raids into the rich counties of Alachua and Ma-
rion and destroying the large amount of sugar and syrup
which has not yet been sent to market. The supply of
beef will now be suspended until the enemy has been
driven out. I am intrenched at the Olustee to-night,
and have about x,8oo infantry, 450 cavalry, and two bat-
.teries and one section of artillery. It is hardly prudent
to move forward against so large a cavalry force, which
can operate by forced marches in the night on my line of
communication and perhaps cut me off from middle Flor-
ida by making a detour through the country and a sud-
den descent on the bridge over the Suwannee, where
I have but 30 men. I will act cautiously until the
plans of the enemy are more fully developed. They are
piloted by traitors familiar with every portion of the
country, and, knowing the position and strength of my
command, the whole district will be ruined unless timely
reinforcements are sent forward. Their cavalry and ar-
tillery are at this time at Sanderson, xo miles from Olus-
tee, and their infantry about 5 miles in the rear. They






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 59

credit me with a much larger force than I have. At Lake
City they skirmished heavily with my forces for several
hours, till they discovered my works and artillery, when
they withdrew and retreated to Sanderson. I was not in
a position to follow."
After the main body of the Federal force had reached
Barber's plantation, the advance was delayed for want of
transportation. General Gilmore, who had accompanied
the expedition, returned from Baldwin to Jacksonville and
thence sailed for Hilton Head, where he issued a proc-
lamation, announcing that he had occupied Florida, and
calling on the people of the State to take the oath of alle-
giance to the United States. Before leaving he instructed
Seymour to hold Baldwin and the south fork of the St.
Mary's as his outposts from Jacksonville, and occupy
Palatka and Magnolia, on the St. John's. But on the
x 7th, Seymour informed him that he was advancing toward
the Suwannee river, though without supplies. Gilmore
answered hastily, complaining that Seynmour was not fol-
lowing instructions and repeating that the objects of the?
Florida expedition were as follows: First, to bring Florida
into the Union; second, to revive the trade on the St.
John's river; third, to recruit the negro regiments and
organize a regiment of Florida white troops; fourth, to
cut off in part the Confederate supplies drawn from Flor-
ida. On the morning of February soth, General Seymour
moved out from Barber's, with all the disposable force at
his control, "with the intention," he afterward reported,
"of meeting the enemy at or near Lake City, and of then
pushing the mounted force to the Suwannee river, to de-
stroy if possible the railroad bridge at that stream."
By the i3th of February there was concentrated
near Lake City a Confederate force of 4,6oo infantry,
6oo cavalry and three field batteries, 12 guns. This
force was organized into two brigades. The First bri-
gade, Col. A. H. Colquitt, included the Sixth, Nine-
teenth, Twenty-third, Twenty-seventh and Twenty-eighth






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


Georgia regiments;


HISTORY.


the Sixth Florida battalion and the


Chatham battery of Georgia artillery. The Second bri-
gade was composed of the Thirty-second and Sixty-fourth
Georgia volunteers, First regiment Georgia regulars,
First Florida battalion, Bonaud's battalion infantry and
Guerard's light battery, Col. George P. Harrison com-
manding the brigade. The cavalry was commanded by
Col. Caraway Smith, and the Florida light artillery was
unattached, in reserve.
General Finegan encamped his little army on a line


between Ocean pond and a cypress pond, a po
met the approval of Lieut. M. B. Grant, w
from Savannah to act as engineer officer of th
The country along the line of the railroad ea
wannee is exceedingly low and flat, with suc
would be of little assistance to a defense.
selected by General Finegan was, in fact,
the engineer "the only point offering any
whatever between Lake City and the south


sition which
rho was sent
le command.
st of the Su-
h streams as
The position
according to
advantages
prong of the


St. Mary's,


the latter


being in posses


Before the arrival of Lieutenant Gran


had been thrown up under
Second Florida battalion.
upon Ocean pond, a shee
by two, while in front of
railroad was an open pond,
extending to within 300 y
right of the railroad and
yards in advance of the li


direction
The left
t of water
the line an
averaging
ards of Oc
at an aver
ne there e


sion of the enemy.
t two small works
of Major Bonaud,
of the line rested
some four miles
d to the left of the
250 yards in width,
ean pond. To the
ige distance of 400
extended "a thick


bay," impassable except within 200 yards on the ri
the railroad. Intervening between this bay and oi
was an open field over which the enemy would h
advance in approaching the works. Major Clarke,
engineer corps, arrived, and the fortification of this
line continued under his direction until the soth,


ght of
ur line
ave to
of the
strong
when


the battle was brought on unexpectedly in advance of the
fortified line. The enemy advanced that morning early,





CONFEDERATE


MILITARY HISTORY.


in two columns, one by the railroad and the other by the
Lake, City and Jacksonville road, and they pushed for-
ward rapidly, supposing they had only to contend with
the forces they had previously met, and unaware of the
reinforcements concentrated at Olustee.
As soon as General Finegan was advised of this move-
ment he sent forward Colonel Smith with the cavalry,
who found the enemy three or four miles east of the Con-
federate position, and reporting that fact engaged in skir-


mishing with the Federal advance guard.


Harrison, commanding
instructed to send forv
two companies of the
going forward from th
structed to engage the
a view of drawing him
ordered forward to sun


Col. George P.


the Second brigade, was then
rard the Sixty-fourth Georgia and
Thirty-second, and these troops,
e intrenchments at noon, were in-
enemy lightly and fall back with
to the works. Next, Colquitt was


ort the cavalry and infantry


next the remainder of Harrison's brigade. Thus the
battle was brought on some distance to the east of the
line selected for defense. Said Colonel Harrison in his
report:
"I had scarcely put my command in the double-quick
when the report of artillery in my front indicated that
the fight had opened. Quickening our pace we moved on
until within a few hundred yards of the place where the
road we were upon crossed the railroad. Here I halted
for a moment, but observing General Colquitt forming
his line, and seeing the position across the railroad of
the enemy, then sweeping the front of my column with
a battery in position near the cross-roads, I moved to the
left in double-quick, crossed the" railroad and formed
line of battle upon the left of that just established by
General Colquitt. About this time the action became
general. Being now at long range I advanced in con-
junction with the right of the line to within about 200oo
yards of the enemy, who stubbornly stood his ground.
In about this position the field was hotly contested by


t






CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


both parties for about an hour,


whe


HISTORY.

n the enemy gave


way slowly before the close pressure of our gallant men;
but soon a new line of the enemy appeared and our ad-
vance was checked. His resistance now seemed more
stubborn than before for more than twenty minutes,
when the enemy sullenly gave back a little, apparently to
seek a better position, but still held us at bay. Now the
results of the day seemed doubtful. It was whispered
down the line, particularly in the Sixth and Thirty-sec-
ond Georgia regiments, that our ammunition was failing
and no ordnance train in sight. This I immediately re-
ported to General Colquitt, who urged that we hold our
ground, stating that ammunition would certainly reach
us directly. This, I am proud to say, was heroically com-
plied with by my command, many of them for fifteen or
twenty minutes standing their ground without a round of
ammunition. Seeing the critical position of affairs I
dismounted, placed one of my staff whose horse had been
disabled upon mine, and he, with the remainder of
my staff and couriers, was employed in conveying ammu-
nition from a train of cars some half mile or more distant.
By several trips they succeeded in supplying sufficient am-
munition to our line to enable the reopening of a rapid
and effective fire, before which the enemy had com-
menced to retire slowly, still keeping up his fire upon


us, when the First Florida battalion, under
Lieut.-Col C. F. Hopkins, and a section
battery, under Lieut. W. Robert Gignilliat
the intrenchments. I at once ordered the
support of the Sixty-fourth Georgia, whose
was nearly exhausted, and the latter to tak
open fire near the left center. These re
together with some that arrived upon the


r command of
of Guerard's
Arrived from
former to the
e ammunition
e position and
inforcements,
right, served


to embolden our men and intimidate the enemy, for their
retreat now became more hurried and their fire less
rapid and effective. Under instruction from General
Colquitt I now threw forward the Sixth and Thirty-sec-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY


ond Georgia to flank the enemy upon their right, which
movement succeeded admirably, for soon their right was
exposed to a cross fire, which told upon their ranks with
fine effect. A general advance of our line now drove the
enemy, who retreated, at first sullenly, but now precipi-
tately, before our victorious arms for some miles, when
night came on, and by order of General Colquitt we
ceased firing and our line halted."
Colonel Caraway Smith, commanding cavalry, gave the
following account of the service of his troops: "On the
morning of the 2oth, it being reported that the enemy
were advancing from the direction of Sanderson, I re-


ceived orders from
advance and meet
their position and
with all the cavalry
of 25o men, Fourth
manding, and 202


the brigadier-general commanding to
them for the purpose ,o ascertaining
number. I accordingly moved out
force then available, which consisted
Georgia cavalry, Colonel Clinch corn-


men of


under Lieutenant-Colonel


enemy about
occupying in
from Olustee
and directed
mishers from
which he did


four miles dj
force the se
. I reported
Colonel Clin
his regiment
promptly and


nestly when they were mel


the Second Florida cavalry,
McCormick. I discovered the
distant from our encampment,
cond crossing of the railroad
the fact to you immediately
ch to advance a body of skir-
to attack the enemy's pickets,
was pushing the attack ear-
t by a much larger force from


the enemy, which compelled them
horses. This they did in good order
moved forward with his whole force,
rear, which we resisted with our rear 8


to retire to their
The enemy then
skirmishing on our
guard, keeping him


in check, while the cavalry retired in line and in perfect
order. This skirmishing was kept up until we reached
the first crossing of the railroad from Olustee. There I
found our infantry and artillery under the command of
Brigadier-General Colquitt, from whom I received orders
to dispose of the cavalry on the right and left wings of
oar army, to prevent any flank movement of the enemy.






64 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY

I accordingly ordered Colonel Clinch to occupy the left
with his regiment and Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick
with the Second Florida cavalry to take position on the
right. Early in the action Colonel Clinch received a se-
vere wound in the leg which made it necessary for him
to retire from the field and the command of his regiment
then devolved upon Captain Brown, who kept an efficient
guard on the left flank while Lieutenant-Colonel McCor-
mick protected the right. On two occasions I discovered
that the enemy was attempting to cross the railroad on
the right of our infantry, evidently for the purpose of
turning that wing, when I directed Lieutenant-Colonel
McCormick to dismount a portion of his regiment and
drive him back, which he did effectually. Thus by the
vigilance of the cavalry on the right and left, the enemy
was prevented from deploying his large force so as to
turn either flank. The Fifth Florida cavalry battalion,
commanded by Maj. G. W. Scott, was not brought upon
the field until late in the evening, in consequence of the
jaded condition of the men and horses from hard service
for the twenty hours preceding. He, however, joined
Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick on the right, about the
middle of the contest, and rendered him prompt assist-
ance. The fight terminating at night and our infantry
lines not being perceptible to me through the woods, and
the face of the country being cut up by swamps, making
it very favorable for ambushing under cover of night, I
deemed it inadvisable to push forward with the whole
cavalry force until further information could be had of
the position of affairs. In addition to this, after the or-
der to move forward was being executed, another order
was received to the effect that we were getting under the
fire of our men and also that I should beware of an am-
bush. I attached the more importance to this order be-
cause it had already been discovered that a large body of
the enemy's cavalry were resting on the opposite side of
a swamp from us. The cavalry, however, as soon as










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POND


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r. fA


a..


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.
I *
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i ~ y-
i e
*


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y1


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SKETCH
Or TEE
BATTLE-FIELD
OF


OCEAN


S ~Jkm therb Featu
flmpth rooA not
The i 3 = c s 1mr mf AdbmUpoawm a er piL
by M4Je antf flwj whkc &'ws dirm g.
r.e .... m...... wt... m tta monmwane yray*inwi
ltna onp paiton to aaohr.t
O-r frve a n Amr ta MLaF tha lir I na pewmrsona
wnAtW a yecup ecS,#o *e And-5wsint a1rdM 4
Auht qpmedte w"a the AmvyS nTewgnud movnens beqa:
gem. tAhs p hin ou.r .rAoI Ln. admwncat pi imfa.


-Q p~
r~f ~


PON DFLA.


,Feblnuaiy 20 ,
1864
Scale of Feet
*** h-^ an**k^


M.B. GRAST


fs





CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY 65

possible followed up the enemy and gathered a number
of prisoners, amounting to about -So. In addition to
this, several prisoners were taken by Lieutenant-Colonel
McCormick and Major Scott while protecting the right
flank.
"I have to report that Colonel Clinch and three men
of the Fourth Georgia cavalry were wounded. One of
the wounded men is missing and supposed to be dead.
It is due to the companies of Captains Stephens and Max-
well, of the Second Florida cavalry, to state that the con-
duct of the men and officers while acting as the rear
guard of the cavalry, as we were falling back before the
enemy, was highly satisfactory. They behaved with the
coolness and deliberation of veterans."
Brig.-Gen. Alfred H. Colquitt, commanding First bri-
gade, in his account.of the battle, said:
"Intelligence having been received of the approach of
the enemy, I was instructed to take three regiments of
my own brigade, with a section of Gamble's artillery, and
proceed to the front and assume command of all the
forces which had preceded me, consisting of two regi-
ments of cavalry under command of Colonel Smith; the
Sixty-fourth Georgia regiment and two companies of the
Thirty-second Georgia. Subsequently other troops were
sent forward and I was directed to call for such reinforce-
ments as might be needed. About two miles from Olus-
tee station I found the enemy advancing rapidly-and our
cavalry retiring before them. I threw forward a party
of skirmishers and hastily formed line of battle under a
brisk fire from the enemy's advance. The Nineteenth
Georgia was placed on the right and the Twenty-eighth
Georgia on the left, with a section of Captain Gamble's
artillery in the center. The Sixty-fourth and the two
companies of the Thirty-second were formed on the left
of the Twenty-eighth and the Sixth Georgia regiment
was sent still farther to the left to prevent a flank move-
ment in that direction. Instructions were sent to Colonel
Pla 5






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Smith, commanding cavalry, to place his regiments on
the extreme flanks and to guard against any movement
of the enemy from either side.
"The line of infantry was then ordered to advance,
which was gallantly done, the enemy contesting the
ground and giving way slowly. Perceiving that the en-
emy were in strong force, I sent back for reinforcements
and a fresh supply of ammunition. The Sixth Florida
battalion and Twenty-third Georgia regiment soon ar-
rived for my support. The Florida battalion was formed
on the right of the Nineteenth Georgia and in such posi-
.tion as to come in on the left flank of the enemy. The
Twenty-third was put on the left of the Sixty-fourth.
Colonel Harrison coming up with the Thirty-second and
First Georgia regulars took position on the left between
the Twenty-third and Sixth, and was instructed to as-
sume the general direction of the left of the line. The
section of Gamble's artillery in the center having been
disabled by the loss of horses and injury to limber, Cap-
tain Wheaton, who had early arrived upon the field with
the Chatham artillery and had taken position on the


right, was ordered to the center to relieve Captain Gam-
ble. This battery moved forward and took position un-
der a heavy fire and continued to advance with the line
of infantry until the close of the action. Toward night,
when Captain Wheaton's ammunition was almost ex-
pended, a section of Guerard's battery, of Harrison's bri-
gade, moved up under Lieutenant Gignilliat, and opened
fire on the enemy, furnishing Captain Wheaton with part
of his ammunition.
"After our line had advanced about one-quarter of a
mile, the engagement became general and the ground


was stubbornly contested. With two batteries of artil-
lery immediately in our front and a long line of infantry
strongly supported, the enemy stood their ground for
some time, until the Sixth Florida battalion on the right
flank and all the troops in front passing steadily for-


[






CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


HISTORY.


ward, compelled them to fall back and leave five pieces
of artillery in our possession. At this time, the ammuni-
tion beginning to fail, I ordered the commanding officers
to halt their regiments and hold their respective posi-
tions until a fresh supply could be brought from the ord-
nance wagons which, after much delay, had arrived upon
the field. Major Bonaud's battalion came upon the field,


followed soon after by
the First Florida batta


the Twenty-seventh Georgia and
lion. These troops were put in


position near the 'center of the line and a little in advance,
to hold the enemy in check until the other commands
could be supplied with cartridges. As soon as this was
accomplished I ordered a general advance, at the same
time sending instructions to Colonel Harrison to move the
Sixth and Thirty-second regiments around on the right
flank of the enemy. The Twenty-seventh, under Col-
onel Zachry, pushing forward with great vigor upon the
center, and the whole line moving as directed, the enemy
gave way in confusion. We continued the pursuit for
several miles, when night put an end to the conflict In-
structions were given to the cavalry to follow close upon
the enemy and seize every opportunity to strike a favor-
able blow.
"The results of the engagement in the killed and
wounded and prisoners of the enemy, and our own loss,
will be found in the reports rendered directly to you.
The gallantry and steady courage of officers and men
during the engagement are beyond all praise. For more
than four hours they struggled with unflinching firmness
against superior numbers until they drove them in con-
fusion and panic to seek safety in flight.
Col. George P. Harrison, who commanded on the left,
displayed skill, coolness and gallantry. The officers
commanding the various regiments did their duty nobly.
Colonel Evans, commanding the Sixty-fourth Georgia, and
Captain Crawford, commanding Twenty-eighth Georgia,
both gallant officers, were wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Barrow of the Sixty-fourth Georgia, a brave and gallant
officer, received a fatal shot while gallantly attempting
to rally his men. CaptAin Wheaton and the officers and
men of his battery are entitled to special commendation
for their courage, coolness and efficiency. Captain Grat-
tan, assistant adjutant-general, Lieutenant Colquitt, aide-
de-camp, Major Ely and Lieutenant Estill of my staff,
were active and conspicuous in every part of the field.
My thanks are due Lieutenant Thompson, Second Florida
regiment, and Mr. Sterling Turner, volunteer aides, for
their gallant services. The names of those in the ranks
entitled to be particularly mentioned may be furnished
in a subsequent report."
The service of the artillery is appropriately mentioned
in the reports of several officers. Capt. Robert H. Gam-
ble, commanding Leon light artillery, said that in the
action of the 2oth inst. 77 enlisted men, with all the
officers of the company, were engaged. "The total num-
ber of casualties were as follows: Gun-Corporal Craven
Atkinson and Private M. B. Smith, killed; A. C. Mc-
Cants struck by a fragment of shell and J. B. Lynn
struck by a spent ball and B. Bishop wounded in hand,
since returned to duty; J. D. Sauls and Wm. Bishop in-
jured by gun carriage. I desire to commend specially
for their coolness during the engagement Sergt. R. F.
Phillips, Corporals J. R. Lewis and A. W. Mason, Pri-
vates James Lee, A. D. Cone, Thomas Neary, Dennis
O'Connor, A. M. May, J. J. Smith and Brickle. Lieu-


tenants Dyke and Gamble, chiefs of sections, and Lieut.
J. N. Whitner, chief of the line caissons, rendered all the
assistance in their power in handling the guns. First-
Sergt. F. B. Papy was also active in the discharge of
his duty. Two battery horses were killed and seven
wounded. These accidents among the horses threw sev-
eral teams into confusion, during which two limbers were
badly injured. The trail of the 12-pounder howitzer was
crushed during the action by the recoil of the gun,, but






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY


firing was continued from the piece until the broken end
of the trail was so deeply imbedded in the earth as to
render the gun no longer serviceable, when it was carried
off the field."
To these reports may be added the more comprehen-
sive account of General Finegan, commanding the heroic
little army. He said:
"On the 2oth inst. the enemy advanced in three col-
umns, since ascertained to have been twelve regiments of
infantry, nine of white and three of black, estimated at
8,ooo, and some artillery, number of guqs unknown, and
1,400 cavalry. At noon the enemy were within 3
miles of my position. I ordered.the cavalry under Col-
onel Smith, Second Florida cavalry, supported by the
Sixty-fourth Georgia, Colonel Evans commanding, and
two companies of the Thirty-second Georgia, to advance
and skirmish with the enemy and draw them to our
works. The remaining force was placed under arms and
prepared for action. Apprehending that the enemy was
too cautious to approach our works, I ordered Brigadier-
General Colquitt, commanding First brigade, to advance
with three of his regiments and a section of Gamble's
artillery and assume command of the entire force then
ordered to the front, and feel the enemy by skirmishing,
and if he was not in too heavy force to press him heavily.
I had previously instructed Colonel Smith, commanding
cavalry, to fall back as our infantry advanced and pro-
tect their flanks. This movement was predicated on the
information that the enemy had only three regiments, of
infantry, with some cavalry and artillery. Perceiving
that in this movement the force under Brigadier-General
Colquitt's command might become too heavily engaged
to withdraw without a large supporting force, and intend-
ing that if the enemy should prove to be in not too great
strength to engage them, I ordered in quick succession,
within the space of an hour, the whole command to ad-
vance to the front as a supporting force, and myself went






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


upon the field. These reinforcements were pushed rap-
idly forward and, as I anticipated, reached the field at the
moment when the line was most heavily pressed, and at a
time when their presence gave confidence to our men
and discouragement to the enemy. I directed Lieuten-
ant-Colonel Hopkins, commanding First Florida battalion,
and Major Bonaud, commanding Bonaud's battalion, to
fall into line on the left in the direction of the enemy's
heaviest firing. After I had ordered these reinforce-
ments and they were some distance on the way to the
front, and while I was on the way to the front, I received
from Brigadier-General Colquitt, commanding in front,
a request for the reinforcements which had already
been ordered. The engagement became general very


soon after it con
heavy force: theii


lines, their art
and rear. I o0
A4. -- **<


ille
rde


them wilt vigor,
gallantry. They
the battle lasted
of this time, the
reformed several
xo-pounder Parrc
from them, they


pressed for 3
adier-General
ing to occupy
his suggestion
advantages of
quence of a r
that the enemy
position whici
correct, I witi
of the battle,
sent repeated
ing cavalry, t


imenced. The enemy were found in
r infantry drawn up in three supporting
.ry' in position, cavalry on three flanks
red Brigadier-General Colquitt to press
which he did with much judgment and
contested the ground stubbornly and
for four and a half hours. At the end
enemy's lines having been broken and
times, and two fine Napoleon and three
itt guns and one set of 'colors captured
gave way entirely and were closely


miles until nightfall. I directed Brig-
Colquitt to continue the pursuit, intend-
Sanderson that night, but in deference to
Sof the fatigue of the troops and the dis-
f the pursuit in the dark, and in conse-
:eport from an advanced cavalry picket
ly had halted for the night and taken a
h was subsequently ascertained to be in-
idrew the order. During the continuance
also after the enemy had given way, I
orders to Col. Caraway Smith, command-


o press the enemy on his


flanks


and to





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


continue in the pursuit. But through some misapprehen-
sion these orders failed to be executed by him, and only
two small companies on the left, and these but for a short
distance, followed the enemy.
"The enemy retreated that night hastily and in some
confusion to Sanderson, leaving a large number of their
killed and wounded in our possession on the field. Their
loss in killed, both officers and privates, was large. Four
hundred and eighteen of their wounded were removed by
us from the field, and 4oo or near that number were buried
by us; also 200 prisoners were captured, several officers
of high rank were killed and others severely wounded.
Their loss cannot be less than 2,000 or 2,5oo men, 5
superior guns, I set of colors captured, and i,6oo stand
of arms; also 130,ooo rounds of cartridges, as appears
from the report of the ordnance officer herewith enclosed.
The victory was complete and the enemy retired in rapid
retreat, evacuating in quick succession Barber's and Bald-
win and falling back on Jacksonville. The enemy's
forces were under command of Brigadier-General Sey-
mour, who was present on the field.


"Th
him to
format
enemy
George
exhibit
and efl


e conduct of Brigadier-General Colquitt entitles
high commendation. He exhibited ability in the
ion of his line and gallantry in his advance on the
I have also to speak most favorably of Col.
e P. Harrison, commanding Second brigade, who
ted in the engagement all the qualities of a capable
icient officer. Col. R. B. Thomas, as chief of ar-


tillery, likewise
Colonel Evans,
teers, and Col.
Georgia cavalry


rendered efficient service on the field.
commanding Sixty-fourth Georgia volun-
Duncan L. Clinch, commanding Fourth
,were wounded while bravely performing


their duty. Lieutenant-Colonel Barrow, Sixty-fourth
Georgia volunteers, and Captain Cannon, commanding,
and Lieutenant Daney, of the First Georgia regulars, also
Lieutenant Holland, commanding detachment from con-
script camp, all officers of high promise, were killed.






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Among the killed and wounded were many other officers
and men who had distinguished themselves on other
fields, for a detailed statement of whom and for instances,
of individual merit I refer to the reports of brigade com-
manders, Our loss in the engagement was 93 killed and
841 wounded, a large proportion very slightly. In the
opening of the engagement the cavalry, under command
of Colonel Smith, skirmished with the enemy.with spirit
and retired to the flanks in obedience to their orders.
"On the 22d inst., having repaired the railroad so as to
secure my supplies, I advanced the command to Sander-
son, pushing the cavalry rapidly in the direction of the
enemy; and from Sanderson to Barber's and thence to
Baldwin and to a point 12 miles from Jacksonville, where


my further progress was arrested by order
dier-General Gardner, who had been direct
command."
Lieutenant Drury Rambo, Company A,
artillery, was ordered to the front about i
-a Parrott gun forward by rail, but was info
piece could not be used. After the enemy
threw a few shells into their ranks.
1n General Harrison's report he mention
ing casualties in the First Florida battalion
C. F. Hopkins, wounded in arm and tl


s from Briga-
ted to assume

Milton light
p. m., taking
rmed that the
gave way he


ed the follow-
i: Lieut.-CoL
igh, slightly;


Lieut.
slightly;
wounded
casualtie
7 officer
wounded
Florida


K. Collins, Company E, won
Lieut. Theophilus Williams,
in breast, slightly. The official
showed a total loss in the Confed
and 86 men killed; 49 officers
and 6 missing: aggregate. o16


battalion


nded in face,
Company F,
statement of


lerate
and
. Th


lost i offer, Lieut. Thomas
lost x officer, Lieut. Thomas


and 8 men, killed, and' 4 officers and 69 men w
the First Florida battalion lost 3 men killed


ranks of
798 men
e Sixth
J. Hill,
wounded;
and 47


wounded, and the Second Florida battalion (Twenty-
eighth Georgia) lost Lieut. W. W. Holland, and x men
killed, and 2 officers and 93 men wounded.
t


I





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Under date of February 2ad Gene;al Beauregard, at
Charleston, sent the following congratulatory message to


General Finegan: "I


congratulate you and your brave


officers and their commands on your brilliant victory over


enemy


cheered


on the


by this timely


Your


success,


country


and I trust it is but the


earnest of heavier and crushing blows which shall destroy
our enemy on the soil of Florida."
Commendation from still higher sources also came to
cheer the hearts of the defenders of Florida, in the fol-
lowing joint resolution of thanks to General Finegan and
the officers and men of his command:


Resolved
of America,
are hereby t
the officers
gallantry di


by the Congress of the Confederate States
That the thanks of Congress are due, and
endered, to Brig.-Gen. Joseph Finegan and
and men of his command, for the skill and
splayed in achieving the signal victory of


Ocean Pond, Fla., on the 2oth of February, last.
T. S. BococK,
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
R. M. T. HUNTER,
President pro tempore of the Senate.
Approved May 17, 1864.
JEFFERSON DAVIS.
The prominent officers engaged on the Federal side in
this memorable battle under Gen. Truman Seymour were
Colonels William B. Barton, Joseph R. Hawley, J. Mont-


gomery and


Capt.
three


V. Henry, commanding brigades, and


John Hamilton, commanding artillery battalion of


batteries.


official reports, was x


Federal
officers


loss, according


to their


and 192 men killed; 42


officers and 1,1 o men wounded; 2 officers and 504 men
missing; an aggregate of 1,861.
.While our victory was complete at Olustee, the Feder-
als had the vantage ground in that we were not in suffi-


client force with


ously,


thus giving


persistent troops to pursue them vigor-
g them time to fall back to their in-


trenchments and with their rapid extension of field works


|







CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY Y


render their position almost impregnable to such force as
we could array. After their defeat in a battle where the
opposing forces were nearly equal, the Federals fell back
to the 2,ooo retained in rear near Jacksonville to guard
their line of communication, and received not less
than 5,ooo reinforcements, the estimate of troops con-
centrated in and around Jacksonville being not less
than 12,ooo, probably from that number to 15,ooo. Thus
strongly intrenched and supported by not less than four
gunboats, it was not advisable for the Confederates to


attempt an
led them t(
Jacksonvill
of life and
controlled i
ness of the
the only m
their base
available f
be best for
This could


attack. The spirit of our troops would have
Make an attempt to carry the works around
e, but it would have been at a great sacrifice
to no purpose, as the gunboats would have
t. As there was no reason to doubt the correct-
estimate made of the strength of the enemy,
measures to be adopted for expelling them from
of operations was the concentration of all
forces at our command at such places as would
a successful operation against their approach.
only be done by placing troops at favorable


points on the St. John's, and so fortifying them as to pre-
vent such an invasion as the one attempted by them, which
had ended so disastrously. It was, therefore, absolutely
necessary for the protection of the State that our Florida
forces should still have the support of the troops that had
come to their assistance at the battle of Olustee.
Menaced by a formidable army not twenty miles dis-
tant it was truly a momentous crisis, and our command-
ing generals, deeply impressed by the gravity of the re-
sponsibility, moved their headquarters to Baldwin to be
nearer the field of action and in readiness for any emer-
gency. The opportune arrival of General Beauregard
was hailed as a harbinger of relief. His presence in-
fused new life into the army, and the confidence in his
generalship and strategic ability inspired a stronger lope
of ultimate success. For nearly two weeks he remained





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


at Baldwin, making such judicious disposition of the
troops as would be most advantageous in the event of a
defensive or aggressive movement. The same forces that
were engaged in the battle of Olustee were retained:
Colquitt's brigade: Sixth, Nineteenth, Twenty-third,
Twenty-seventh and Twenty-eighth Georgia regiments
and Chatham artillery. Harrison's brigade: First Georgia
regulars, Thirty-second and Sixty-fourth Georgia regi-
ments, Bonaud's battalion, Fourth Georgia cavalry, and
Guerard's battery.
District of East Florida, Brig.-Gen. Joseph Finegan:
First Florida battalion infantry, Col. Chas. A. Hopkins;
Second Florida battalion infantry, Col. Theodore Bre-
vard; Sixth Florida battalion infantry, Col. John M. Mar-
tin; independent company Florida infantry, Capt. J. C.
Eichelberger; independent company Florida infantry,
Capt. B. L. Reynolds; independent company Florida
infantry, Capt. John McNeill; five companies Second


Florida cavalry, Lieut.
independent cavalry, C
independent cavalry, Ca
tillery, Company A, C
light artillery, Company
District of Middle Flo
five companies Second
Smith; Fifth battalion I
Fourth battalion Florid
Clellan; Florida partisan


-Col. A. McCormick;
apt. James D. Starke;
pt. W. H. Cone; Milton
apt. Joseph L. Dunham
B, Capt. H. F. Abell.
rida, Brig.-Gen. W. M.
Florida cavalry, Col.
rlorida cavalry, Col. G.
a infantry, Maj. James
1 rangers, Capt. W. J. R


company
company
light ar-
;Milton

Gardner:
Caraway
V. Scott;
F. Mc-
.obinson;


Florida light artillery, Capt. Robert H. Gamble.
Having satisfactorily arranged matters in Florida and
instructed the major-general in command as to the mode
of operations decided upon, General Beauregard returned
to South Carolina.. On his arrival at Charleston he sent
the following report, March 25th, to Gen. Samuel Cooper,
at Richmond:
S. On February 7th Brigadier-General Finegan
reported by telegraph that five gunboats and two trans-


v


v






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


ports of the enemy had made their appearance in the St.
John's within 5 miles of Jacksonville; and on the next
day announced the arrival of eighteen vessels (gunboats
and transports), the landing of the enemy in large force,
and an immediate advance on the night of February 7th.
General Gilmer was at once directed to put in motion
and to report to General Finegan all the troops he had
been previously ordered to hold in readiness for such an
emergency. General Gardner, commanding in middle
Florida, was telegraphed to send to the imperiled quarter,
with all possible celerity, every soldier .he could spare.
Colquitt's brigade was ordered from James island to Sa-
vannah with alight battery. General Finegan was advised
of what was done and instructed to do what he could with
his means to hold the enemy at bay and to prevent the
capture of slaves; and at the same time I reported to you
this hostile movement and my intention to repel it as far
as practicable with infantry to be withdrawn from Charles-
ton and Savannah, but requested in consequence of the
very recent discharge of some 5,000 South Carolina mili-
tia, that other troops should be sent to take their place
and avoid danger to Charleston and Savannah. Scarcely
had Colquitt's brigade begun to move when the enemy,
in anticipation, doubtless, of my attempt to reinforce Fin-
egan, made a strong demonstration on St. John's island.
Though assured of the purpose of this movement it as-
sumed, however, so serious a form as to compel me to di-
vert temporarily General Colquitt and three and a half
regiments of his brigade to reinforce General Wise, then
confronted by at least two brigades of the enemy, about
4,500 strong, pushed forward in advance of the bridge-
way between St. John's and Seabrook islands, and in ad-
dition several regiments of infantry were detached from
Sullivan's and James islands to be in readiness for the de-
velopment of the enemy's purposes.
On the night of the ith of February I ordered all
our batteries bearing on Morris island to open a heavy
simultaneous fire on that position, as if a cover for an as-
sault, and with the hope of forcing the enemy to with-
draw from St. John's island to the protection of his own
works. This stratagem seemed to have produced the de-
sired effect, or assisted to make him abandon the
movement on St. John's island and withdraw hastily be-
fore daybreak, thus releasing and enabling Colquitt's





CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY 77

command to meet and defeat the enemy at Ocean Pond,
some 13 miles in advance of Lake City.
In the meanwhile other troops had been dispatched to
the theater of war from the works around Charleston
and Savannah and the positions covering the Savannah
railroad. This was done, indeed, to a hazardous degree,
but as I informed the secretary of war by telegraph on
the 9th ult., I regarded it as imperative to attempt to
secure the subsistence resources of Florida. General
Finegan was also apprised of these reinforcements on
February x th, and instructed to maneuver meantime to
check or delay the enemy, but to avoid close quarters and
unnecessary loss of men. While these reinforcements
were en route the enemy again attempted to delay them
by a movement against Whitemarsh island near Savan-
nah, and it became a measure-of proper precaution to halt
at Savannah two of the regiments on their way to Gen-
eral Finegan for the development of the enemy's plans,
one of which regiments I felt it prudent to detain there
to the present.
The want of adequate rolling stock on the Georgia &
Florida railroad and the existence of the gap of some 26
miles between the two roads, subjected the concentration
of my forces to a delay which deprived my efforts to that
end of full effect. The absence of General Hill making
it injudicious for me to leave this State, I directed Brig-
adier-General Taliaferro to proceed to Florida and assume
the command, not knowing at the time that Brigadier-
General Gardner, commandingin middle Florida, his sen-
ior, had returned from sick leave and was fit for field
service. Apprised of this, I directed General Gardner,
on the xast ult., to assume command and organize for a
vigorous offensive movement preliminary to the arrival
of General Taliferro; but subsequently, the victory at
Ocean Pond having taken place in which I supposed
General Gardner, though not in immediate command,
had taken an active part, I directed that officer to as-
sume chief command and, dividing his forces into divi-
sions, to assign General Taliaferro to one of them; soon
after which I was advised by the war department of the
assignment of Maj.-Gen. James Patton Anderson to the
command of the forces in the State of Florida.
Gen. D. H. Hill.having arrived at these headquarters
on the 28th of February, I left for Florida the same






78 CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY

evening. On the 2d inst., I reached Camp Milton, Gen-
eral Gardner's headquarters, in rear of McGirt's creek,
12 or 13 miles distant from Jacksonville, where I found
our troops in position. The day preceding our advance
pickets had been thrown forward to Cedar creek, within
6 or 7 miles of Jacksonville.
On the 3d inst. Maj.-Gen. J. Patton Anderson also
arrived at Camp Milton and assumed command on the
6th inst. of the forces, now about 8,000 effective of all
arms. In the meantime it had been ascertained from re-
liable sources that the enemy occupied Jacksonville with
at least 12,000 men; that the position, naturally strong,
had been much strengthened since the battle of the 2oth
ult., and that four or five gunboats in the St. John's
effectually commanded the approaches to the place. Un-
der these circumstances it was determined not to attempt
to carry the position by assault, as in effect instructed by
your telegram of the 4th inst.
Everything indicates that the rout of the enemy at
Ocean Pond was complete; nevertheless the fruits of the
victory were comparatively insignificant, mainly because
of the inefficiency of the officer commanding the cavalry
at the time, no serious attempt being made to pursue
with his command, while the exhaustion of the infantry,
so gallantly and effectively handled and engaged, and our
want of subsistence supplies and ammunition, made an
immediate pursuit by them impracticable.
Unless our present forces should be considerably in-
creased and amply supplied with means for a regular
siege of Jacksonville, our operations in this quarter must
be confined to the defensive-that is, to prevent the pene-
tration of the enemy into the interior, on the line toward
Lake City or into the lower portion of the State, to
which end a position has been selected on the St. John's
a few miles above Jacksonville for a battery of one rifled
32-pounder, three rifled 30-pounders, one 2o-pounder and
one ro-pounder (Parrotts) and two 8-inch siege howit-
zers, by which, with torpedoes in the river, it is expected
transports at least can be obstructed from passing with
troops beyond Jacksonville. Cavalry pickets have also
been established for the protection of the railroad to
Cedar Keys from injury by raiding parties set on foot
from the west bank of the St. John's.
I have for the present organized the forces under Gen-





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


eral Anderson into three brigades, commanded respective-
ly by Brigadier-Generals Finegan and Colquitt and Col.
George P. Harrison, Jr., three meritorious officers, the
last two of whom have won promotion by their active
participation in the combat of the 2oth ult, at which it is
proper to say Brigadier-General Colquitt commanded on
the immediate field of battle. He has seen much service
likewise in the army of Northern Virginia
The cavalry has also been organized into a brigade


under Col. Robert H. Anderson.
ies of four pieces each were pl
Lieut. -Col. Charles C. Jones, an


The four light batter-
aced under command of
d two batteries of siege


guns (six pieces), present on the field under Maj. George
L. Buist. It is hoped this arrangement will enhance the
efficiency of the troops, who are in fine spirits and good
condition.
Too much praise cannot be awarded to the brave
officers and men who encountered and defeated twice
their number at Ocean Pond, and I commend them to
the notice of the government. They are in all respects
worthy comrades of those who on other fields have done
honor to Southern manhood.
After the battle of Olustee the Second Florida cavalry,
Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick, skirmished in the vicin-


of McGirt's


creek and Ten-mile station,


dri


the enemy's pickets and preventing their advance.


ving in
While


it was deemed hazardous to venture on any decided


sault,


the general commanding, appreciating the spirit


which animated our troops, pho were growing impatient


at the inactivity forced upon


them,


making an advance upon the enemy's


determined upon
outposts to ascer-


tain his position and strength and, if advisable, make an
attack. For this purpose a reconnoitering party was sent


forward, consisting of Scott's


battalion of cavalry, under


Major Scott, and Company H, Captain


Florida cavalry.


Dickison, Second


They soon came up with the advanced


force of the enemy, who was also reconnoitering, consist-


ing of infantry, cavalry and artillery.


Our troops imme-


diately charged, and the enemy stubbornly resisted, while


falling


back,


until they reached Cedar creek,


within 6





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


miles of Jacksonville. A large number
having concealed themselves in a thick j
opened fire from their ambush upon a
about 8o of our cavalry while crossing t
way, instantly killing Captain Stephens,
cavalry, a splendid young officer greatly
command, and wounding several others.
time our main force of four regiments o
cavalry and three pieces of artillery, came u
over the causeway, and the fight became g


miles of ground being contested,


the sk


of the enemy,
)almetto scrub,
detachment of
he long cause-
Second Florida
beloved by his
At this critical
of infantry, 2oo
Ip and advanced
general, about 5
irmishing and


general engagement lasting from i a. m. to 3 p. m.
Our forces having effected a crossing on the enemy's right,
intending to turn their flank, they hastily retired, falling
back to the Three-mile run, where they halted and were
reinforced by cavalry and artillery. This vigorous repulse
of a force numbering about 3,ooo00 infantry, 500 cavalry
and a pieces of artillery, after contesting our advance step
by step, attested the bravery with which they fought
against superior numbers. Our loss was 7 killed
and 12 wounded. The enemy acknowledged a loss


2 killed, 4
ter information
out 40. To ha
ratified position
ous consequence


founded and 5 taken prisoners, but
gave the number of their wounded at
ve advanced upon the enemy in their
would have been attended with disas-
es.


The defensive campaign now entered u
great activity. The troops, divided into
infantry, cavalry and sections of artillery,
at such points as were most exposed and
enemy was expected to make an early adv
security was in untiring vigilance, and
cqnmpanies were deployed for outpost


among them Col.


G. W. Scott


battalion


ipon was one of
detachments of
were quartered
upon which the
ance. The only
several cavalry
Sduty, notably
of cavalry, and


Company H, Second Florida cavalry, commanded by Capt.
J. J. Dickison; Lieutenant-Colonel McCormick with the
remaining companies of the Second Florida cavalry com-


of
lal
ab
foL
tri






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 81

mand being stationed in the vicinity of McGirt's creek,
about Is miles from Jacksonville. The infantry was
placed on the entire line of railroad from McGirt's creek
to Waldo, and through the unprotected country lying be-
tween the railroad and the Ocklawaha river. Detach-
ments from the Fourth Georgia cavalry were on duty in
this locality to strike the enemy in an advance from Pal-
atka to Orange Springs, at that time a "city of refuge"
for families who had been driven from their homes on the
St. John's river.
Captain Pearson, while en route for Tampa, was or-
dered to repair to Orange Springs, as the enemy was sup-
posed to be advancing up the Ocklawaha river in barges
from Welaka. At the same time an order was given to
send a train down toward Cedar Keys to bring back
Captain McNeill's company to the point nearest Orange
Springs, to co-operate with Capt. John W. Pearson of the
Sixth Florida battalion, and others. Thus every necessary
precaution was taken to prevent the enemy from pene-
trating the country.
The Fourth Georgia cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel
Harris, was quartered at Waldo, to be ready when neces-
sary to unite with the cavalry force under Col. R. H.
Anderson, who was to operate upon the right flank of the
enemy in case of a general advance of the enemy upon
the front. While these preparations were under way, a
request was made by General Gardner for Colonel Scott's
battalion, but the exigencies of the service did not admit
of compliance. No troops could be spared from the
seat of war. therefore a detachment of the siege train
was ordered to guard the Aucilla trestle, and Caper's bat-
talion, Wimberly's compan3tand two infantry companies
were posted at the Suwannee bridge to prevent depreda-
tions in middle Florida.


Fla .6









CHAPTER


ORGANIZATION OF THE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA IN
THE SPRING AND SUMMER OF I864-PALATKA, WE-
LAKA AND FORT BUTLER-WITHDRAWAL OF
TROOPS TO VIRGINIA-FIGHTS WITH GUNBOATS
ON THE ST. JOHN'S-RENEWED FEDERAL ACTIV.
ITY-BATTLE OF PALATKA EVACUATION OF
CAMP MILTON AND BALDWIN-BATTLE OF GAINES.
VILLE.
THE districts of Middle and East Florida having
been united in the district of Florida and embraced


in
Florida,
command
4, 1864.
x, embra
tawatch


the department of
Maj.-Gen. Patton
d of the district.
His territory wa
cing all that portion
e river and bay


I South Carolina, Georgia and
Anderson was assigned to the
He assumed control March
s divided into sub-district No.
Sof Florida between the Choc-
(in west Florida) and the


Suwannee river, commanded
Gardner; and sub-district No.
east of the Suwannee river,
commanding.
General Beauregard issued
tion of forces March 5, 1864
sixth Virginia regiment front


by Brig.-Gen. William M.
2, embracing all of Florida
Brig. -Gen. Joseph Finegan


I special orders for disposi-
,transferring the Twenty-
1 Finegan's brigade to that


commanded by Col. George P. Harrison, Jr.; the Fifty-
ninth Virginia regiment from Harrison's brigade to Fine-
gan's; the First Georgia regulars from Finegan's brigade
to Colquitt's; and Capt. J. J. Dickison was ordered to
proceed at once with his company to Palatka and resume
his post there, and the commanding officer of the Fourth
Georgia cavalry was directed to hold himself in readiness
to support him with his whole command if necessary.
Brigadier-General Gardner was ordered to establish the

82






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


military posts from Clay landing on the Suwannee river
to Tampa, garrisoning the post with the troops previously
occupying them, under the order of General Finegan.
Major Buist, commanding heavy artillery, was directed
by Major-General Anderson to order a detachment of 85
men under his command at Madison to be armed with
small-arms and posted at the Aucilla bridge as a guard for
its defense, leaving the siege pieces and a sufficient guard
at Madison. Col. John M. Martin was directed to proceed
with troops detached from the Sixth Florida battalion to
the point nearest Orange Springs, and thence by forced
marches to the most favorable locality for intercepting


the boat expedition of the


enemy, now supposed


operating on the Ocklawaha river, Pearson's, Wes
and McNeill's companies to co-operate. Colonel I
commanding at Waldo, was directed in the event
onel Anderson falling back from his position to jo:
with all the cavalry under his command, including
tain Dickison's company. In this disposition of our:
the most advantageous positions were taken, with
to be ready for an immediate concentration in any
agency.
At the time Maior-General Andersnn a sinmpre


to be
tcott's
larris,
of Col-
in him
g Cap-
forces,
a view
emer-


A h m G rn s s coin


mand the enemy occupied Jacksonville with a force esti-
mated at about 12,ooo, having strong fortifications on the
land side of the place and the additional defense of gun-
boats in the St. John's river. The Florida troops, with
reinforcements from other States, numbering about 8,ooo
of all arms, had taken position on the west side of Mc-
Girt's creek, 12 miles from Jacksonville. Under the su-
pervision and direction of Generals Beauregard and An-
derson, breastworks and stockades were constructed at
this position, and similar fortifications of a more permanent
character were thrown up at Baldwin, 8 miles in the
rear of McGirt's creek, and at the intersection of the rail-
roads running from Fernandina to Cedar Keys and from


Jacksonville to Lake City.


For a time there were many


-- v m m


I mm.






84 CONFEDERATE


MILITARY


HISTORY.


indications which gave promise of an advance of the
Federal, and every preparation was made to meet them at
McGirt's creek in the first place, or in the event they
should turn that position, then at Baldwin, where it was
believed a successful defense might be made against a
superior force.
Our effective force operating near Jacksonville was, in-
fantry 6,290, cavalry 1,568, artillery 487. Brigadier-Gen-
eral Gardner, by vigorous measures with the limited force
at his command, assisted by civilians, had by this time
succeeded to a great extent in suppressing the lawlessness
of the bands of deserters and disloyal persons, restoring
quiet and establishing a sense of security within the
threatened settlements. Preparations were also made for
similar measures against such bands in south Florida,
whenever a sufficient force could be safely detached from
our main force, then confronting superior numbers at
Jacksonville.
To prevent the enemy's gunboats from so defiantly navi-
gating the St. John's a number of torpedoes were planted
in the channel of the river, z5 miles above Jacksonville,
through the skill and energy of Capt. E. Pliny Bryan,
of General Beauregaid's staff, and the enemy's communi-
cation with the garrison at Palatka was rendered precari-
ous. Therefore, another advance not being probable, it
was deemed practicable to make a vigorous assault upon
Palatka, the movement being greatly encouraged by the
fact that one of the largest transports, while descending
the river from Palatka, exploded a torpedo and sunk in
three fathoms of water. A section of artillery, under
Lieutenant Gamble, supported by infantry under Captain
Grieve, First Georgia regulars, was sent to complete the
wreck, and firing a few rounds at that portion above water,
Captain Bryan with two men boarded her and set fire to
her upper works. She proved to be the steamer Maple
Leaf with the camp and garrison equipage of three regi-
ments, recently arrived at Jacksonville and hurried up to





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Palatka. A few weeks later the transport Hunter, on a
return trip from Picolata, having on board quartermaster
supplies, was also destroyed by a torpedo near the wreck
of the Maple Leaf.
An aggressive movement being determined upon, Gen-
eral Finegan was directed to proceed by rail from Baldwin
to Waldo with about 2,5oo infantry and six pieces of ar-
tillery; thence by nearest route to Palatka, which place
he was to attack and carry, after which he was to be
governed by circumstances and await further orders.
Between Waldo and Palatka he was to be joined by
Colonel Martin, Sixth Florida battalion, with about 450
infantry, and Lieutenant-Colonel Harris, Fourth Georgia
cavalry, with the same number of cavalry. On account


of the condition
to Waldo, he was


of transportation by rail from Baldwin
provokingly detained, consuming more


hours than miles traveled, so that when he was to have
begun the assault at Palatka he had not been able to
move his command from Waldo, 38 miles distant. Our
scout on the river bringing in information that a large
reinforcement of infantry and cavalry had arrived at
Jacksonville, it was deemed prudent to recall General
Finegan and hold all our available force to meet any at-
tempt on the part of the enemy. On April x3th Lieu-
tenant-Colonel McCormick was ordered to scout the
country on his left and front, round Broward's neck and


Yellow bluff, with the view of discovering if the
making any movement from that quarter; and
Anderson, commanding the cavalry force in


enemy was
Col R. H.
front, was


directed to send Captain Dickison's company immediately
to Palatka and take position as formerly and report to
Lieutenant-Colonel Harris, Fourth Georgia cavalry, at
Waldo. Under this special order and information that
the enemy had passed up the river toward Palatka,
Company H, Second Florida cavalry, 145 strong, was sent
with all haste to that point. On their arrival they ascer-
tained that the enemy had landed with 5,ooo men. Cap-





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


tain Dickison reported to Colonel Harris asking for rein-
forcements, and the latter move his command, about
125 effective men, to Sweetwate branch, 12 miles from
Palatka. Scouts were sent out and reported that the
enemy occupied the town. A d tachment of the Fourth
Georgia cavalry was ordered to s pport Captain Dickison
in driving in the pickets and as ertaining their position
and strength, which was soon accomplished, and three
pickets with their horses captured. Simple as was this


capture, the event was marked by a daring that gave
luster to the heroic deed.
The enemy were strongly f rtified and remained in
Palatka nearly six weeks. Duri g this occupation of the
town our cavalry frequently sk rmished with them, and
with untiring vigilance awaite results. A detachment
of x6 men under Captain Dicki n, on one occasion was
met by a superior force of the en my, and after a hot skir-
mish which lasted forty minut s, holding their position
without giving an inch, the ene y was reinforced and our
men fell back in good order with ut loss. The enemy's loss
was 5 killed and 8 wounded. few days after we drove
in their pickets and took positi n on the hill overlooking
the town. Lieutenant McEad y was sent to ascertain
the true position of the ene 's pickets, and a secret
night expedition was planned o capture the post, which
proved successful, the entire guard of 8 men being cap-
tured. Subsequently Colonel abb, now in command at
Waldo, ordered Captain Dickiso to make a reconnaissance.
This was done and the enemy opened fire on our advance
guard. The firing soon beca e general; the enemy sent
forward two regiments, one w te and one colored, which
were held in check for about our hours. Night coming
on, the enemy withdrew, wi h a loss of 1 killed and 22
captured. Our troops then ret, red in good order without
any loss, though the enemy outnumbered them eight to
one. On April 22d, in cony ying notice of his relief by
Col. J. M. Martin, Sixth Floo a battalion, Colonel Tabb


0





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY


expressed to Captain Dickison "the high appreciation in


which you and your command are held.


The faithfulness,


promptness and superior judgment which you have at all
times manifested, give assurance of those soldierly qual-
ities which inspire confidence and command respect and
admiration everywhere. "
The following communications from Adjutant-General
Barth to Captain Dickison commanding, will give a clearer
idea of the stirring events that followed and the oper-
ations of this gallant command:
"April 3oth-The enemy, about a regiment strong,
are reported as being at Fort Butler in Volusia county on
the evening of the 28th inst. The major-general com-
manding desires that you be on your guard and ready for
any emergency."
"May 3d-Your dispatch of the 3oth ult relative to
the enemy being at Fort Butler was received last evening,
and the major-general commanding directs me to say that
your dispositions as detailed therein are fully ap-
proved. '
"May Ixth-Another company is ordered to report
to you. Major-General Anderson approves your sugges-
tions and directs that you strike the enemy whenever you
have an opportunity of doing so to advantage.'
May x1th-Capt. J. W. Pearson's company is ordered to
leave Orange Springs. This change will render it neces-
sary for you to watch the approaches to Marion and Sum-
ter counties."
In obedience to these instructions Captain Dickison, ac-
companied by two of his men, reconnoitered near the en-


emy's


post on the river side opposite


Welaka; and the


next day at sundown,


with a detachment of 35 men of his


command, accompanied by Capt. H. A. Gray, Second
Florida cavalry, with 25 of his command, marched 9 miles


before reaching the St


John's river.


Under cover of


night they crossed the river in their small boats,


marched


7 miles


to reach the


enemy


's post.


then


At day-


break they arrived at Welaka. Placing two detachments
on the flank of the enemy, Dickison moved in on the cen-


ter with a detachment,


capturing the pickets and com-





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


pletely surprising the enemy.
mand to the officer commanding
surrender, which was complied wit]
a large cavalry force was not far di
in returning to the boats and recr(
capture of 62 men, x captain and
having fired a gun. After crossing
sured all was safe, a needed rest w
Having planned another exped


river to Fort Butler, and
more than 25 men, he set
and his gallant Lieutenant
Lake George and, leaving


'boats, marched
capture, Captain


a short dJ
Dickison


having
out witt
McEad
a guard
distance.
wrote


der of the Federal command. Whi
alryman rode from a farmhouse r
50 yards of our men before he i
The men were ordered not to fire


HISTORY.


le then sent in a de-
for an unconditional
i. Being advised that
stant, no time was lost
,ssing the river, with a
i lieutenant, without
g the river, feeling as-
as taken.
ition, 15 miles up the
transportation for not
This heroic little band
dy. He crossed little
of three men with the
Anticipating another
demanding the surren-
le thus engaged, a cav-
ear by and was within
as seen by our picket.
and a vigorous pursuit


was made, one detachment of 1 2 mn under Sergt. Charles.
Dickison-son of the captain-foll wing in the direction
of the house, while the other detachment under Captain
Dickison pursued the horseman 'down the road, but he
succeeded in making his escape. Captain Dickison then
made a rapid advance with his detachment on the enemy's
post, 2 miles distant, the location being shown by a
bright camp fire. Moving cautiously within two hundred
yards Lieutenant McEaddy was sent forward with a de-
mand for surrender. The captain in command held a
short parley, and very reluctantly complied.


Apprehending the possibility
erals should see that they had
26 infantry and 6 cavalry to a
federates without firing a gur
secured and given in charge c
push off without delay. By 1
a farm wagons were recover


of a revolt when the Fed-
surrendered a garrison of
small detachment of Con-
1, the captured arms were
of two men, with orders to
this capture 12 slaves and
d. Captain Dickison re-






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY.


crossed the river and arrived at headquarters at zo o'clock


the next morning.


The detachment under Sergeant Dick-


ison marched x5 miles down the swamp to avoid the Fed-
eral cavalry, and reached the camp next evening, shouts
of welcome greeting them on their safe return from their


perilous and tiresome march.


The following announce-


ment of this spirited exploit was made by General Ander-
son:

"The major-general commanding has great pleas-
ure in announcing to the troops under his command the


result
posts,


of a gallant expedition against the enemy's detached
undertaken on the x9th inst. by Capt. J. J. Dick-


ison, Second Florida cavalry. Crossing the St John's
river in small boats, Captain Dickison surprised and cap-
tured the enemy's garrisons at Welaka and Fort Butler,
taking 88 infantry and 6 cavalry, with the arms and equip-
ments, and returning with his brave command safely to
their camp, bringing in the whole capture, after an ab-
sence of forty-four hours, during which time they traveled
85 miles and effected the results herein detailed without
the loss of a man. Such an exploit attests more emphat-
ically the soldierly qualities of the gallant men and their
skillful leader who achieved it than any commendation it
would be possible to give. The major-general command-
ing feels, however, that his thanks are due them, and,


while
indulge
soldier
and d


mand."


thus publicly rendering the tribute so justly due,
es in the confident hope that every officer and
in his district will emulate the patriotic endurance
ring displayed by Captain Dickison and his com-


On May 24th General Anderson assigned still more ex-
tended duties to this command, advising Captain Dickison
of "inability to picket Green Cove Springs and Bayard with


any other forces than those you command.


He therefore


directs that youpicket these points."
The withdrawal of a large number of troops from Jack-
sonville to join the Federal forces concentrating in South
Carolina and Virginia, afforded Major-General Anderson
the opportunity so long desired of sending a command






CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


Sto south Florida to the support of the few scattered com-
panies who were so bravely defending the wide extent of
country along the Gulf coast against the destructive raid-
ing parties that were continually alarming the citizens by
ruthless invasion of their homes-plundering the planta-
tions, carrying off slaves and destroying valuable property.
On account of the difficult access of our troops to this
more distant part of the State, without railroad facilities,
an expedition to that field was one attended with great
inconvenience and fatigue, and could not have been un-
dertaken while threatened by so formidable a force of the
enemy in front. But the time for action in this depart-
ment had come,' and for such purpose the Sixty-fourth
regiment Georgia volunteers was detached. Lieut. -CoL
Theodore Brevard, of the Second Florida battalion, fa-
miliar with the country and citizens, and upon whose
judgment, skill and courage reliance could be placed,
was assigned to the command of the expedition. His in-
structions were of a general character-to repel the
advance of raiding parties, arrest deserters, punish and
drive out plunderers, and to afford every assistance in
his power to the agents of the government whose duty it
was to collect beef cattle for the army.


He had proceeded only a little over
the borders of the field of operations,
reached headquarters which caused t
of the regiment for service in South


however, as
portation ob
was sent to
Brevard. M
generally by
agents of th
plies for the


zoo miles, reaching
when urgent orders
he immediate recall
Carolina. As soon,


new dispositions could be made and trans-
tainqd, another force-Bonaud's battalion-
the same quarter under Lieutenant-Colonel
uch good was derived from the expedition,
reason of the protection afforded by it to the
le commissary department, in collecting sup-
army, as well as the confidence its presence


inspired in loyal citizens and planters, whose property
was in constant danger from lawless bands.
On the 15th of April, 1864, the enemy began sending






CONFEDERATE MILITARY HISTORY. 91

troops away by sea to Hilton Head, and continued to do
so until the izth of May, when it was estimated that 8,ooo
Federal soldiers had been withdrawn from Jacksonville.
Meanwhile, Major-General Anderson was directed by
the commanding general at Charleston to transfer to
Savannah the Eleventh and Eighteenth South Carolina
volunteers, Twenty-sixth and Fifty-ninth Virginia and
Sixty-fourth Georgia regiments, this depletion of or
forces being unavoidable in consequence of orders from
the war department transferring a large number of troops
from South Carolina to Wilmington, N. C. Owing to the
continued call for troops for the army in Virginia, other
orders rapidly followed, and by May 8, 1864, nearly
all the troops that had been sent to reinforce our Florida
forces had been sent away. All the cavalry and part of
the infantry and artillery marched across the country
from Camp Milton through Georgia, by the most expedi-
tious route to Savannah under the circumstances. On
account of the removal of these troops from the State, the
most vigorous preparations were made to so dispose of
our forces that the middle and eastern portions of the
State could be guarded and protected against raiding ex-
peditions.
Orders were issued to every department to be on guard
and ready for every hostile demonstration. Lieut. C. B.
Dyke was ordered to report at Camp Milton without
delay with the section of Gamble's battery under
his command, and Lieut Mortimer Bates, with one
section of artillery from Captain Dunham's battery,
was ordered to report to Captain Dickison. Our
forces at this crisis were scarcely sufficient for a vig-
orous defense against a large invading force, and the
utmost caution and vigilance were required. Sec-
tions of Gamble's and. Abell's batteries were held in
middle Florida awaiting the attacks which from indica-
tions were imminent. On the west side of the Chatta-
hoochee river the country was guarded by two detach-







CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


ments from Scott's battalion of cavalry, one independent
company of cavalry and a few independent companies of
infantry, assisted in every emergency by civilians, who
were ever ready to fall into line.
After the bombardment of Pensacola and its subsequent
evacuation, the Confederate forces, consisting of Alabama
and Georgia regiments and a detachment of Florida
troops, had taken strong positions a few miles from Pensa-
cola at Pollard, Blakely and Gonzales, guarding all ap-
proaches to Mobile, Montgomery and Tallahassee against
any expedition that might advance from Pensacola. Vigi-
lance at every point was our only security at this trying
crisis-one that indicated that the great conflict was rapidly
determining to a momentous issue. Even in the darkest
hour hope lured us on. God, the Creator and Supreme
Ruler of the Universe, alone governs the destiny of na-
tions. To man-the master work of His hand-is given
dominion over earthly things, subject to His gracious
overruling and by Him led to carry out His deep designs
and work His will. What God has wrought let no one
make the impious attempt to destroy. "He is His own
interpreter."
The principal problem in the summer of 1864 was to
cover with the forces at our command the large area of
country lying between the St. Mary's and the St. John's


rivers, and 1
the rivers an
force at Ja
boats, could
practicable
a rapid con
positions of
check and
airy formed
Scott's batt
ant-Colonel


the more thickly populated counties between
id the Gulf coast. The Federals, still in strong
cksonville under the protection of their gun-
advance at will into the county. Our only
preparation was in providing all facilities for
centration of our forces and making such dis-
detachments of infantry and cavalry as would
harass the enemy in his approach. The cav-
a valuable adjunctin such operations. Colonel
alion was in position at Camp Milton; Lieuten-
McCormick, Second Florida cavalry, in the


neighborhood of Cedar creek and Front creek, with





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY


tions of Dunham's and Gamble's artillery near Baldwin.
Company H, Captain Dickison, and Company B, Captain
Gray, were on the outposts between Green Cove Spring,
Palatka and Welaka, and other exposed points along the
river, with one section of Dunham's artillery. The Sixth
battalion of infantry, with detachments of the First,
Second and Fourth, were at and near Waldo, commanded
by Colonels Hopkins, Brevard and Martin.
Lieut. Mortimer Bates, with one 12-pound howitzer arid
one Napoleon gun and 25 men, reported to Captain Dicki-
son at his headquarters near Palatka, and on the next day
while these officers were looking for the most favorable
point on the river to engage the enemy's gunboats should
they make their appearance, a courier came up in great
haste from our pickets on the river below Palatka, with
the exciting report that "the river was full of gunboats


coming up." Our headquarters b
from the river, Lieutenant Bates was
with all possible speed to the camp, I
and report to Captain Dickison on
Palatka and the river. Captain Gray
report with all the cavalry at the sam
the full command reported. Bv thi


and four transport
Dickison dismount


eing some 3 miles
s directed to proceed
ring up his battery,
the hill overlooking
was also directed to
e place. Very soon
s time two Punboats


ts were sighted coming up. Captain
ted the cavalry, marched into Palatka


and took position in the well-arranged intrenchments made
by the enemy during their occupation of the town a short
time previous. They were scarcely concealed in the
breastworks when the transports moved to the east side
of the river and commenced landing troops. Two regi-
ments landed, moved out into the field, formed and marched
off in full view of our men. Very soon one of the gun-
boats loaded with troops passed by, going up the river.
Not being near enough to engage her with small-arms,
every man was ordered to be quiet until she passed. This
boat proved to be the Columbine. Captain Dickison then
mounted o5 men and taking the artillery, Captain Gray





CONFEDERATE MILITARY


HISTORY.


remaining in command in the breastworks, endeavored
to intercept the gunboat at Brown's landing, about 3
miles distant, but was too late by five minutes to engage
the boat, which continued on her way. Returning to
Palatka he met a courier sent by Captain Gray with in-
formation that the gunboat Ottawa, the largest boat on
the river, carrying 13 guns,two of them 2oo-pounder rifled
guns, and one of the transports that had landed troops on
the east bank, were then on their way up the river. He at
once ordered his command to follow and press on rapidly
to meet the boats at Brown's landing. At sundown a halt
was ordered, and Lieutenant Bates unlimbered his guns
and moved cautiously to the landing. The men were
dismounted and ordered to take position in the swamp,
to protect the artillery. At dusk they reached the wharf
at the landing and the two guns were put in position.
The boats were anchored not more than 200 yardstfrom
the landing. Just as we were ready to fire the enemy
lighted up their boats, making them a fine target for our
little battery, whose fire created great confusion on board.
The admirable management of our guns gave us the ad-
vantage of 28 rounds before the enemy responded. The
transport, as soon as she hoisted anchor (being badly
crippled) left without firing a gun, but the Ottawa at each
round poured into us a heavy broadside, aiming in the
darkness at the flash of our guns. This made necessary
the removal of our guns, which was done in the best or-
der and with admirable coolness. The injury to the Ot-


tawa was such that she did not move off for thi
The report of her loss showed several killed and
Not a man was hurt on our side.
The following day, the 23d of May, 1864
Dickison, with Lieutenant Bates' battery a
tachment of sharpshooters from his cavalry, n
Horse landing, 6 miles distant from the pla
engagement with the Ottawa and transport the
vious. The runs were put in position on th


rty hours.
wounded.


[, Captain
nd a de-
larched to
rce of his
night pre-
e wharf at