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E4054
B93I
NARRATIVE
OF THE
CENTRAL DIVISION,
ARMY
OF.
CHIHUAHUA,
-m:\ian])ei)
BRIGA131EK
kv
GENERAL WOOL:
EMBRACING
TUUE WI*^
GEn'i.
AT CAJtARGO
f^it'NTRY
OF THB
BY JONATHAN W. BUHOUP,
LATE OF THE ARKANSAS CAVALRY.
1>1TT8BURGI1:
rUBLISHED BY
M. P.
MORSE,
85
FOURTH
1847.
PRICE-^^^i^iTcENTS.
ST.
NARRATIVE
OF THE
CENTRAL DIVISION
NARRATIVE
OF THE
CENTRAL DIVISION,
OR,
ARMY OF CHIHUAHUA,
#
COMMANDED BY
BY JONATHAN W. BUHOUP,
LATE OF THE ARKANSAS CAVALRY.
PIT TSBVROH:
PUBLISHED BY
M. P.
MORSE,
1847.
85
FOURTH
ST.
Entered according
to the
Act
of
Congress,
itj
the
Year 1847,
By Jonathan, W. Buhoup,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for thf
Western
Office.
CO.,
District of Pennsylvania.
PREFACE,
It
more
is
we
to
now
works
before
The
is
among
the
num-
ber,
known
as the
Central
Division, or
Army
of Chihuahua,
New
TV/^ies,
"
Taylor and
his
Generals."
The
plain
strictly to
its
final
its
rendezvous
disbandment
at
at
Camargo.
work of
this
the
it,
to obtain
stampedes^
etc.,
PREFACE.
VI
Being young
in years,
first
Should
critics find
employment
predominate
in
this
And he
in
commenting on
let
the labors
"
the " darling attribute
instance.
The
Public's most
humble
servant,
THE AUTHOR.
Pittsburgh, Oct. 20, 1847.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER
Not only
War
I.
was Judged
13
okee
CHAPTER II.
Numerous Wagon Train Bustle
Breaking up the Camp and Setting
Out Detailment of Army and Number of Officers and Men March
in
Wool
17
CHAPTER III.
Creek Almost Impassable The Cherokee
pursuit of Game False
Alarm and Confusion Facing Enemy and Discovery of Mistake
Rested
the Wagon Train Salt Licks Strictest Viglance and a
Stronger Guard Explanation of Grand Rounds The General Visits
in
for
the Grand
Rio Grande
The
Laugh
Army Marches
The
for
the
Indian
Headquarters.
22
CONTENTS.
VIII
CHAPTER
the River Enter
IV.
Presidio Description of
Pelonsellas and Backwoods Dance Return Tents
Senoritas and Fandango Explanation of Fandango Guard the
Ford News of the Battle of Monterey Arrival of Col. Hardin and
Major Beale's
Regiment Second Stampede Cause of
Cock Guns, &c. Drill
Adventure with Sentinel Orders not
Preparations to cross
it
Encampment
to
at
his
it
to
Orders
at
in
29
CHAPTER V.
A Mean Transaction Move, and
Come to a Swift Stream Another Stream, called Alamo View of
Mountains A Day of Rest The Days of the Month not forgotten
Col. Roane waiting them Alcalde and bare legged Mexicans
His Honor desires Peace Private Property Respected His DepartureThe Boys Charge the Sugar Cane Silver Mines of Dr. Long
40
Mexican Taste The Lasso Formidableness.
Encamp on
for
Its
CHAPTER
VI.
to
cer
45
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER
IX
YII.
The Boys
ment
Indian
use
The
to Scout,
CHAHTER
VIII.
The
Soil
Manner
of
Timber on the Mountains Country around Monclova City of Monclova Mills and Flour Stores Trade from St. Louis.
62
CHAPTER
IX.
Laws Steel Mills Delegates AssembledA Speech Made Order Commanded Speech Concluded
Committee Appears Resolutions Read The Indian Meeting Ad-
CHAPTER
Cavalry and Dragoons
to
X.
the
Wooden Leg-
Daylight Sufferings from the Cold Entire Force Rest and Draw
Ten Dollars Marched through Town Our Indian used up Lost his
Tobacco^Encamped at a Hacienda Capt, Davis not Massacred
CONTENTS.
mand-Ordered
to
March Destined
for
Reflections
76
CHAPTER
XI.
Washed Water Good
and Wood
Encamped where Gold had been
Plenty Loud Complaints March through a Barren Country Encamped in a Swamp--Travel Forty Miles without Water Troops
Anticipate SufTering SufTering from Thirst Hard Hearted Teamsters Arrive at Water The Famished Soldiers Supplied with it
Numbers Die Mules Die in their Harness Reflections Express
from Gen. Taylor Encamp in a Ditch, and the Mexicans stop the
Water Resume our March Palmetto, or Soap Plant High Banks
Travel
Large Fires
in the
83
CHAPTER
XII.
Town
obtained
Cavalry, &lc., go
in
Wood
Worth The Whole Army
is
in
Motion
Advance
CONTENTS.
XI
Companies
Captain
Started'
to
ic
Among
the Troops
General
Wool Removes
his
Camp
to
Agua
CHAPTER
XIII.
camped
at
Agua Nueva
it
it
at
to
at
CHAPTER
XIV.
Army
in
Col.
in the
McKee kept
Buena Vista Wagons to
Motion
at
Orders Given, but Helter Skelter was the Order Arrival at Buena
Vista Snugly in Blankets The Enemy in Sight The Gallant
Suckers The Army in Line to Meet the Foe Yankee Doodle
HI
Remarks Concerning the Battle Description of the Battle
CHAPTER XV.
Continued Loss of America's Bravest Sons The Troops
Suffer for Want of Fire -Despatch a Hasty Breakfast Retreat of
the Enemy Shocking Sight of the Dead, Dying and Wounded
The
Battle
HI
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XVI.
Rpport of the Number of Killed, Wounded and Missing Causes of
Troops remain at Buena Vista Mexicans LeavDifferent Reports
ing their
Day Again
Ingenuity of
lor's
130
Reply
The Time
CHAPTER
Going Home Great
XVII.
for
Sufferings of Col. Doniphan's
Troops lUinoisians start for New Orleans Gen. Wool's Parting
Address Reflections Forbearance of Gen. Wool His Courage and
Valor Remarks Anecdote of the Young Officer and his Dulcinea
Central Division about Breaking Up in Earnest The Parting Hand
Army of Chihuahua Regiment Proceeds Twelve
to Gen. Wool
Miles Our Indian Again Eacamped at Reconada Gen. Ampudia's Fortification
Reach Monterey The Black Fort and Bish-
op's Palace
Bodies of Col. Yell, Capt. Porter and Private Pelham Set out and
Arrive at Ceralvo Saw Massachusetts Volunteers Encamped at
Canales' Run The Town of Meir Reached Camargo on the Fif-
teenth
of Service
at
to
Himself Appeal
to the
Public
139
^tf''*^*^
NARRATIVE
OF THE
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
CHAPTER
Not only
War
I.
was judged
Design of the Wise Heads The Division to attack Chihuahua Division ordered to rendezvous March by land and voyage
by water Quarter Master's employment Military Academy Left,
right Strict Discipline very necessary, and orders issued Mexican
Fandango The Countersign, " Rackensack or Sucker" Orders
Issued to March Consternation about the "Haversack" Crowds
Collecting and some Deserting The Tall Cherokee.
advisable
After
United States,
it
to stand in
defence of our frontiers, but to push the war into the enemy's
country, and carry on a
powers of Mexico
ish
them
for
many
for the
war of
to a just
numerous
insults
to
pun-
citizens. &;c.
To
at
Washington
effect,
to enter
it
was designed by
Mexico
and
to attack
NARRATIVE OF THE
14
to attack
Chihuahua
shall
to,
Division.
to
command.
The
different regular
is
that
rendezvous
Wool was
artillery
dragoons
selected
Company
two
last
Two
San
at
B, 4th
which we
to join
at
also,
The
General
San Antonio.
com-
The
Gulf of Mexico
was the
camp
latter part
troops arrived
the
to
fifty
Illinois
as fast as they
came
tiiey
Camp
were ordered
to
The
Salough.
is
from the
reason of
During
this
Alamo
in
time the Q.
obtaining stores
employed
a Military Academy.
It
Crockett,
there previous
commenced.
in drilling
Camp
encamped
1836.
and wagons
being termed
its
it
The
in
such a march as
different corps
were
was an amusing
tall
CENTRAL
Arkansawian,
athletic
rocked
hollow
in a
log,
15
DIVISION.
march
to
He
words, as follows
to
keep step
"Left, right!
right
left,
when he would
called
it
much
to the
It
to his old
was
until his
mind
his captain.
to
observe very
discipline.
tall
haunts in Rackensack, as he
annoyance of
The
left!"
Captain's
after the
strict
this effect,
that no one should be absent from cam.p after sunset, and for
purpose the
this
was
roll
at night.
But
extra duty.
manner
this
go
to
it
Immediately
they would.
o'clock, they
were not
the volunteers
would
to
morning
tercept
roll
them
The
call.
they had
their
its
be thwarted in
attractions,
after roll
and
nine
camp
strictest vigilance
own
call, at
to
countersign
to
be ready
in this
way
was
thus,
when
a soldier
comes there
.^"
off,
Things went on
when
the sentinel
at
"
Who
this
to
would
go on.
23d of September,
if
by magic, an order
v/as
NARRATIVE OF THE
16
march on
to
the
damper on
their
remain
silent, until
leetle
what
in the
11 is
Wool
says
to
Two
A
shall
to
tall
Wool was
that they
Cherokee belonging
have occasion
to
many
a deer
1 've
a haversackr'''^
Many
declared they
much astounded
deserted that
to the
same
regiment,
at the
night.
whom we
killed
Feller Sogers
of them were so
who
rest,
to
their eyes.
"
haversacks, and
So they had
it.
to carry
and cooked
any grub,
a piece of
it
for
with old
he had
ribs.
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
17
CHAPTER II.
Numeroas Wagon Train Bustle breaking up the Cannpand setting
out Detailment of Army, and number of Officers and Men March
on the morning of the 26th of September The next day orders
sued Beautiful Prairie, and Exploits of the Cherokee Indian Rest
in
is-
on
train
had been
collected,
morning
a numerous wag-
stores,
both provisions
to
for the
break of day
at
and the
we
march.
all
set off
we were
for
des-
camp
"
kettle?" or,
Who in
the h
many
exclaim, "
"Someone
11
What
up
camp
to mention.
out as follows
Colonel
to
W.
S.
Doctor
J.
Doctor
W.
set
;;
NARRATIVE OF THE
18
W.
Captain
W.
Captain G.
graphical Engineers.
First Lieutenant, L. Sitgreaves, United States corps of
Topographical Engineers.
Lieutenant,
W.
ographical Engineers.
Company
B. 4th
artillery,
commanded by Captain
J.
M.
Washington.
Subordinates: First Lieutenant J. P. J. O'Brien; First Lieutenant T. L. Brent; Second Lieutenant
H. M. Whiting.
The
in
95
aggregate 99.
ant, J.
Hill
Lieutenants, J.
The
118
First Lieuten-
M. Hawes and
J.
Second
Y. Bicknell.
non-commissioned
officers
aggregate of 123.
follows
A, Cady
The
ant,
W.
W. Hoffman
Captain,
First Lieutenant, E.
ant, L.
officers of the
H.
Captain, J. Williams
Fitzgerald, A. C. S.
Howe
First Lieuten-
Second Lieuten-
Lieutenant, E.
Second
W.
Rhea,
company, whose
The number
aggregate 265.
Captain,
of
men
reported
CENTRAL
Arkansas Cavalry.
Colonel, A. Yell
S. Borland
ant
DIVISION.
The
staff
19
was composed
as follows
G. Mears, Adjutant
First Lieuten-
J. J. Dillord.
W.
command
Antonio, under
Moffit,
Major Borland.
of
non-commissioned
Two
and privates
officers
companies of the
aggregate, 417.
commanded
men ag-
Two
gregate 156.
companies of the 2d
Illinois volunteers,
commanded by Captain Webb, numbering for duty 135 agOne company for the pioneer service, comgregate, 142.
f.ee, numbering 30 men.
Captain
manded by
The following
;
non-commissioned
officers,
the advance
officers
officers
army
and privates
73
officers
making an
aggregate of 1244.
With
An
this
v\'e
belonged
those that
Our
number
first
to
the
when we found
miles,
to
the
Chihuahua.
What do you
all
Buffalo dung?"
Rio Grande."
At
sal-
are,
think of trav-
went on
till
the sound of
NARRATIVE OF THE
20
the
On
the following
morning we
out at sunrise.
set
An
one fr'^m
''^aving the
commanding
the
We
camp
camp
too
fire
<jolumn.
left
or
also, to prohibit
day.
was
with
any
column
officer of the
The
ed hundreds of deer.
it
or
we do
not
know
fell
behind.
but
this
How
we do know,
that
it
would have
In the evening
it.
we have
neglected
when our
forgotten
it.
We
not
small
German
scarcely
with a
we
son.
slice,
we were
quence of presenting
to
at a
village
this
we encamped
his offence
favored
In conse-
forgiven, promising at
the
However, we
he kept
will see
his promise.
at the river
I.
McDowell,
Leon,
for the
1st Artillery A.
purpose
same day we
accompanied by First
CENTRAL
Lieut. F.
T. Bryan
sistant Adjt.
Quarter Master
try
General
Doct. C.
21
DIVISION.
Capt.
W. W. Chapman,
First Lieutenant
M. Hitchcock,
M. R.
Assistant
Patrick, 2d Infan-
Assistant Surgeon,
U.
S. A.;
Capt.
H.
W.
Eustace
Second Lieuten-
numbering
o 131 men.
Our
The
force
coo
aofs^reffate
was now
force
increas-
command.
NARRATIVE OF THE
22
CHAPTER III.
Pursuit of Game False
Creek Almost Impassable The Cherokee
Alarm and Confusion Facing Enemy and Discovery of Mistake
the Wagon Train Salt Licks Strictest Vigilance and a
Rested
Stronger Guard Explanation of Grand Rounds The General Visthe Grand Rounds The Old General ThunderstruckThe
German sentenced and the General's hearty laugh Army marches
the Rio Grande The arrival of the Alcalde of Presidio The
Indian scrutinizing
Honor's Blanket The Indian's ideas of the
Alcalde Orders issued from Headquarters.
We marched on the following morning. Nothing of
in
for
its
for
his
great
moment
Regiment being
Wool
in
wagon
a very
Gen.
Wool
During
deemed
beins^ about
it
in crossing, so
necessary to
camp
much
He
forthwith
commenced
by one
was continu-
of those
men
with
whom
unnecessary alarms.
by one of
those fractious-minded
covered.
He
men
it
was
was
dis-
Well,
"A
Mexican
spy."
wills
An
CENTRAL
23
DIVISION.
The
ex-
night.
Wool was
off,
or
thing
such
were sent up, the surrounding chaparalls had
screams as
Had
to.
On
eager
At
length, a
over the
tall
rest,
fellow,
own
troops,
formed
who
but
troops were
no one
sure
else but
men coming
Mexican charge.
When
the
up three cheers.
sent
Why
And
who had
Thus ended
the
first
stampede^ of
We
march about
It is
o'clock.
We
and encamped
camp
ing.
We
were
morning
at
break of day,
some
salt
licks,
An
alarm.
for six
that even-
we
passed
hundred yards
NARRATIVE OF THE
24
When we came
The
salt.
cavalry
within 25 miles
camp
Mexicans were
and intended
river,
to
fortified
An
express was
The
ed.
next
This
We
commanding view of
to point
the
this
Many look-
The
afternoon of
day was
Wool accompanied
For
fear
some
officers of the
day
of the sentinels.
may
of our readers
of "grand rounds,"
During
in all directions.
we
not
know
the meaning
the duty
it is
of the
nio^ht.
Well,
it
was
in
company with
when he
sees
It is
swer,
Grand rounds."
Who
The
to hail,
comes there,"
sentinel
will
will an-
then
say,
proceeds on
It
General
man on
to the next.
happened
was somewhat
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
He
One
25
was
the relief.
The
be d
thought
was thunderstruck
was the
it
at
Who comes
relief."
such an answer.
"
there?"
Grand rounds
After standing
we have no doubt he
onds,
would
mute
reflected that he
for
was
some
sec-
a volunteer,
to
On coming up
the next.
of
it
to this
in future,
and passed
to
to get up.
at
till
Vel den,
I get a
shoot
it vash you."
Here
him how he knew him.
you come up on de wrong side, and
"
Vy
dat
it
you see
saw
dat
vash, too."
I tot dat it
it
The
had been
detailed,
to orders, viz
The
advance about one mile ahead of the column, the rear about
six
train,
side
NARRATIVE OF THE
^B
In this manner
of the road.
del Norte,
we commenced
o'clock,
The
men
river
battle.
endeavoring
to
About 4
o'clock, P.
and desired
flag,
beckoned across.
He
have an interview
to
Accordingly, he was
On reach-
it.
to,
parley.
by
to
requested
the boys to keep his lower limbs out of the water, for
fear
he
He
rniorht
catch cold.
by our son of
proached
the forest,
Having
us.
humbug
?"
"
a pretty
:
What humbug
good opinion of
What do you
What
mighty
did
you think of
fine ?"
We
he ap-
us, he con-
"
Wasn't
it
nodded assent.
to sort of skeer
you
to
as
it
being
him out of
the old
it,
provided
chap over
We
for
endeav-
CENTRAL
ored
to
ed
and the
off,
last
it,
but
it
27
was
all
in
in
it.
vain.
He
So he
start-
was
that anything
war.
fair in
The
them passable
was
DIVISION.
river,
wagons, and
for the
which read
issued,
as follows
in the evening
make
an order
October, 184.6.
you have
arri-
In the performance of
greatest pleasure
under
many
manner
and men.
officers
his staff,
duty, and in a
who have
to the service
From
actively
this
the
on both
To-morrow you
will
war upon
We
United States.
The
at their
homes,
to
make
people, therefore,
States,
who do
not take up
who
occupy
to
ful
and
all
those
is
NARRATIVE OF THE
28
rigid discipline
and subordination.
strictly
By command
(Signed.)
of General Wool.
Jidj.
Gen.
CENTRAL
29
DIVISION.
CHAPTEE IV.
Preparations
cross the River Enter Presidio Description of
Encampment Pelonsellas and Backwoods Dance Return
Tents Senoritas and Fandango Explanation of Fandango Guard
the Ford News of the Battle of Monterey Arrival of Colonel
Hardin and
Regiment Second Stampede Cause of Major
Beal's Adventure with a Sentinel Orders not
Cock Guns, &.c.
Drill Orders to March March and Encampment
a Hacienda
Arrival
San Fernando, and the Exploits of Captain Pike Encamp and Experience a Cold Night Soldier's Rations Encamp in
a Swampy Place Water Bad Express from General Taylor Dry
Grass on Fire Uncomfortable Travelling The Indian's Plan and
to
it
to
at
his
it
to
at
at
Success
On
Blanket.
the
Two
river.
the
San Antonio,
for
The
train
two
the
artillery
first,
above
pose us.
feet
wagon
for
it,
the carriage, in
The
to cross the
made
to
op-
his scanty
take the
Division.
wardrobe would
first
Mexican town
It is
situated
afford.
that
Thus we proceeded
was taken by
to
the Central
NARRATIVE OF THE
30
Just
we
ance of a
house of worship.
The
at
it
as a festival.
and saluted
be enjoying
to
built chiefly of
camp
some
before
We
it
into
classes
all
which
small loaf
latter article is a
On
we
discov-
it,
we saw
approaching
good old
backwoods dance, or as a volunteer would term it, a " stag
violin,
while
the
Did
break down."
ing
more
Our
this
like the
camp
Things went on
No,
it
did not."
It
looked
of an invading army.
in this
way
night,
until
first
well-known
when some
re-
time in an enemy's
Mexico,
at a
fandango.
will
fandango
celebrated dance
is
somewjiat similar
cities.
to
the
The fandango
remark
is
that
generally
CENTRAL
31
DIVISION.
purpose than
money.
It is
customary,
pose
so
five
cents, almost as
much
pay
as a soldier's
one dav.
for
After treating her to cakes, nuts, &c., (as for drinks, none
are kept
them;
but,
will
by watching her
two
you
public,)
you
closely,
consequently, you
or three times.
of the stratagems
may
made use
of to play
form an idea
volunteers.
The
place
this
The
fair,
many
who
this
Illinois
formed an
Many
undergo.
in
peace
Mexico.
Regiment of
in
On
to
But, alas!
Few
idea of the
1st
face.
Volunteers.
officers
His
field
Major Warren.
Captain R. H. Chilton, A. Q. M., U. S. A.
Dr. Herrick, Assistant Surgeon.
J.
Hardin's
and
staff
NARRATIVE or THE
32
Captains:
W. H.
Wallace, Adjutant.
The
total
of Colonel Hardin's
The
ond
Aggregate, 574.
officers.
we
At
bound, but
at
sounded
horse!
to
The
under arms.
were
were heard
firing
eight
in the direc-
still
as if spell-
was heard.
Harney and
gallant Colonel
battle
not come up
was about
It
was
All
in the saddle in a
Rackensacks.
Wool
first,
it.
us,
officers
at
off".
his
dragoons
Next came
the
But
the General
mounted
About
this
Now
open
every
word
met Colonel
use Colonel
to wait until
news came
the consequences.
all
time, a
Presently a
smart picking of
flints
to distin-
The
who forthwith galloped towards the lines.
man was looking, with eyes, ears and mouth
guish himself.
aid-de-camp,
(to
devils,
at the
their
left foot
CENTRAL
The
diiferent corps,
who commenced
It
concluded
to
The
commanders of
relating to their
burial of
who was
soldiers, in
the
commands
as a laundress.
to
at
33
DIVISION.
company
attached to the
honor
known
"rest"
in military tactics as a
and brought
came
who
by
threatened
soldier, they
more
their
little
was
rest,
Very
to that position
that
if
to
So we
re-
all
that
Happening
grand rounds.
upon one of
the sentinels
of resting.
The
"
Who
sentinel
comes there
that
to
be officer of
at
12 o'clock
who had
sat
jumped up
Stop
for
by
at night,
down
all at
the day,
for the
and
he came
purpose
once, exclaiming
Gd
she
cocked
's
I"
me."
The
The
terrified officer
that night.
NARRATIVE OF THE
34
the cocking of
The
arms previous
fire
hailing
to
three times.
draw
tt^
march
command
when
the
until
following
march
march
The
sick
the line of
who were
not able to
fifteen miles
evening,
up
the Rio
character,
train,
command
under the
to
Cavalry.
We
Our march,
16th of October.
this day,
We
of chaparal bushes.
cienda,*
nothing
the volunteers
occurring of
got hold of
some
We
some aguadienleA
/m-
some of
This soon
known
Sons of Temperance.
set out the following
state
difficulty in gaining
as the
camped
The Mexicans
by
the
name
of San Fer-
little
excitement.
A small village.
It
was
related to us
by one of
to
Plaza,:!:
Whiskey.
be drawn.
In this manner
Market
place, or square.
CENTRAL
35
DIVISION.
dren and dogs, and every thing alive within sight vamosed.
After reaching the Plaza, he
march
"
commanded,
old
woman
At
commenced
belles,
door
last a
after a
qiiere
iiearing this
to
address
crivinor
him
in
Spanish
her a
San Antonio by
civil
answer.
own
city
" Buenos
After
buena.''^
even
human.
lonsellas.
dias
"By fours,
Thus ended
the capture of
command
We
the town,
where
there
felt
the severity of
some
what
is
diers' language,
by bunking
together,
we were
able to get a
we were off.
of those who know not what a soldier's
we will state that we here received three
For
the benefit
pound of pork, bacon or beef per day. Generally, about the same time, we got one pound of beef per day
for four days, and three fourths of a pound of pork or bacon
quarters of a
against a
flour,
smooth plank
it
and
would
stick.
to
cof-
receiv-
throw
NARRATIVE OF THE
36
this
the day,
which was
However,
of Monterey.
it
that night
every
hence, there was considerable uneasiness manifested
but
particulars
they
were
held
in
man anxious to learn the
;
pond
side of a large
We had
wood
the
ed on both sides
on.
when we encamped by
enemy
capitulated
for peace
were very
Zack and
his
flattering,
sent
up three cheers
for old
men.
was
to
arms
they were
to
in
No
minute.
have a chance
to
doubt
show
every
many
man
thought
as
Mexican
more
The
made
it
next morning
it
commenced
own
quarters.
a drizzling rain,
which
As we were passing
CENTRAL
marched out
in the
at the
Our curiosity
for some time,
manner
company with
it.
it
how to gel
when a
it
knew
my
mind
would
that I
to
found a
him whether
peared
So,
could speak to
be afraid, but
to
when
wished
heard
this,
desert
to
him
At
alone.
him
I told
he ap-
lirst
would not
that I
them d
When
Americans.
all
am
'
de greatest
when
feller to
same
ole feller,
darkest places
massa had
shinin ob
" After
come
my
I
why,
and
it
dar,
massa
ole
ole
if
in
Texas,
massa was
after
here,
went
of de
'cept
if
ole
by de
eyes.'
heard
this, I
me to the house
On entering the
low began
see,
come
me
he
me,
me in one
am myself
he couldn't a found
then
you
he didn't hide
he
measure, and
asked him
began
not, hence, I
trying,
the Indian
for the
keep
to
on
led us to ride in
in
promise
let
37
to see
identical blanket
but
DIVISION.
our surprise
to bustle
around mightily
he took
me
into a
fel-
back
NARRATIVE OF THE
38
me
alone
saw
a sort of chest
but
opened
it
and looked
However,
was
np nice
I to eet
awav
Sunday.
on going
back door,
to the
with a bar.
took
took
out,
it
found
up some old
enough
1
there
knew
was,
how
the nenot.
But
it
it
out, but
it
fastened
do
to
to
room
but could
in,
I lifted
folded
had no time
out,
in the
lose, so I
a sort
went
old fellow
in
The
front room.
this
However, the
of a Sunday blanket.
leaving
faster than
If I didn't
horse, then I
a quarter
am no
Ingin.
' However,
past the guard
I hallooed
It
*'
when
all I
could do.
I tried
was bound
Ingin skeered,
it
was
I.
nigfit,
The
it
go.
you saw an
wolves seemed to be
and
'tarnal
was no
Here, then,
'tarnal regulars.
if
ever
fighting for the rights of their country and the old Alcalde's
blanket
try does, to
light
them squares
horse and
went
it's
come
to
camp, got
to
my
for
it.
But he did
Of course we had
Finally, day-
this
"
1
CENTRAL
bleness
39
DIVISION.
endeavored
to point out to
him the
evil that
it,
we
use,
in
however;
is fair
in
his
rate.
It
was no
last
speech
had given
we had
comply with
to
at this
it.
we
left
him, and, as
"
we
NARRATIVE OF THE
40
CHAPTER V.
Encamp on the River Sabinass A Mean Transaction Move, and
a Swift Stream Another Stream, called Alamo View
Come
of Mountains A Day of Rest The Days of the Month not
them Alcalde and bare-legged
gotten Colonel Roane waiting
Mexicans His Honor desires Peace Private Property Respected
His Departure The Boys Charge the Sugar Cane Silver Mines
Formidableness.
of Dr. Long Mexican Taste The Lasso
to
for-
for
Its
The
They were
We
we had met
since
good
sale,
it
was none of
it
San Fer-
confident that
left
we would
we
selling pelonsellas
met
latter article
the
if
think that at this time they had not forgotten the injunction
zens
erate
nor do
enemy
we
as to be guilty of such a
dark
citi-
we found
that four
Mexicans had
purpose of encamping
act.
About
retired to the
bank of
They
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
requested to see
ceeded
to
seized by
fires,
41
called,)
show.
When
some of
the party,
Mexicans pro-
the
who began
carry them
off.
they
their
to
pelonseUas and
money
readers
in their
may
some of our
power.
make more
We do
river.
taken,
This we admit
Had
pretensions to civilization.
Mexicans
the
would agree,
murder them,
We
stamp
it
with
sum of
most
the
is
we
few
dollars,
unqualified
was
brutal.
disapprobation.
Could he have
it.
made
we
cross
The
difficult.
the
foot
river,
which
men moved
off
extremely
tleep.
It
difficult,
alry
would take
of a long rope,
side,
it
in this
back.
to
to
work
which was
the
manner by men
that the
its
manner we worked
until
almost night.
After this the infantry and dragoons
4*
marched about
five
NAKRATIVE OF THU
42
miles, to
called the
Alamo.
For
fast as
encamped on
The
tains.
following morning
As they arose
in
we had
the
view of moun-
first
were made on
Next
many
morning, the
wagons being
all
strip of rising
yards from the river, the train and troops having forded two
We
For
we
Alamo on
the
on the 24th.
We
forgot-
advance
25th,
rest,
22d day
we
rested
Rosallia.
We
On
calde,
whom
once belonging
to a
gentleman
in the
his master
commenced by
CENTRAL
saying
"
Our
desire
we
peace, and
for
is
43
DIVISION.
A man
Honor
ranks said,
in the
ty,
'
the pri-
You have
to give
it
up with-
No unfendeP^
to interfere,
needless to
Captain had
Now,
(it is
'*
"
bowing about
provided,
respected."
is
The
The
of that found,)
little
are willing to
after
fear of
precedented havoc
among
remembering the
trea-
their eyes,
No
set of
field
Here we
visited a silver
From
merly of Pennsylvania.
appearances
He
ratives."
'*
for-
opine that
The
silver
dies
and ornamenting
and also
produced here
is
after
it
bridles, for
mented
for, to
we
dis-
Give
Mexican
is
then
at the
The
lasso
is
of the Prairies,'^
hood.
it
noticing, for
we have
44
NARRATIVE OF THE
to
throw
We
to
it
it
is
to death.
We
fore
we come
use
it
country
lasso
to the
as a deadly
weapon
but we have
is.
said
in
which they
enough
to let
CENTRAL
CHAPTER
A
45
DIVISION.
YI.
Dilemma of a Colonel
March Pass through a Miry Place Several Ranches
An Officer Commits a Mean Action Arrived in Camp in Good
Time Evidently among the Mountains Travels of a Gentleman
Journey through Sandy Plains Unfeelingness of some of the
Wagoners Cold Consolation for Poor Footmen Wagon Masters
Their Authority Offset to the Above Hospital Wagons Encamp Good Water, but no Wood The General receives Information of a Fortification March All Ready for a Brush No
Mexican Soldiers, but a Dozen of Apple Carts The Boys Charge
on the Apples The Indian again Busy The " Sucker's" MisWitness a Specifortune Encampment, and Visit to the Rancho
men of Mexican Slavery Hot Spring Cross several Streams
A Dragoon almost Drowned The Indian and the Kid Monclova
Place of Chaparals and Prickly Pears
Ready
to
Surrender by the
Its
miles of Monclova
The
place where
Alcalde
we may
be allowed
pricks referred
to in the
good book,
But
to
it
our narrative.
happened
to
he happened
pears.
when
to
Just
to get
at this critical
doubt be diverting
to the
rather blasphemous.
it
is
We
give
it,
how-
NARRATIVE OF THE
46
verbatim^ merely
ever,
Rackensacker
Sentinel.
is
to
show what
sort of an animal a
Just at this
concluding the
last
.*J_s
The
word.
knee
was
he cried out
C t!"
Sentinel.
"Halt! J C
s
and
t!
send
twelve
the
The Colonel
after this
pretty dark
atories.
we
As we marched on
were
in the
cane.
During
this
act
committed by an
officer,
rode up,
took one of the finest of them, and handed the old lady (apparently the
doubt the
like this.
owner
woman
which
judged
never had, in
all
her
life,
to
make
hands, in order
senting
to let
him know
to
so, for
him, or
sum
of
mean
at all events a
money
No
that she
change
was
it,
pre-
off,
minus her
CENTRAL
obtain
act,
it
it,
and the
trick
Had we
for nothing.
we would
where
it
the
name, but
We
remember
camp
arrived in
ever
if
in
is
The
was done.
injustice
to
offi-
how he
beautiful gourd.
came by
47
DIVISION.
meet
should
these lines
it.
We
good time.
were encamped
now
reduced
readers, or
undertook
a
to a
.^uch a campaicfn,
how
that portion of
at least
thirst
We
tlie
But
after
enough
marching 15 or 20
to set fire
the dry
to
twigs,
We
seem
to
be from them
gentleman
say that
is
the distance
when he came
to
We
you
heard a
camp he intended
to
He
started
and walked
when upon
look-
as
the
camp.
It is
needless to
to
camp,
fears
having
-was fully
The
after
20 miles
to
We
dark some
known now
every
man
belonging to
NARRATIVE OF THE
48
The
Central Division.
the
suffering for
beyond
is
all
want of water
in
We
who
belonged
However, we have
no doubt
that
it
turned
it
into a speculation
authorities for
but
the wagoners
to suffer
fill
water
it
to the
it
out,
We
for sale.
had known
it,
if
foul proceedings.
We
who were
down by
and wait
They
In this condi-
There were
with
about as
of soldiers.
red,
much
When
authority
|i^
a corporal of a
circumstances similar
to the
company
above occur-
few curses.
By
this author-
camp
fall
fall,
lariette or lasso of
As an
till
after night-
we could make some few honwe have known some who would assist
CENTRAL
49
DIVISION.
there
true
It is
were
or totally un-
move.
here
fortifying a
that the
The
march
4 o'clock
at
Mexicans
cav-
out, before
According
der
command
officer could
and
of Colonel
Harney
and
un-
more appropriate
When we
had pro-
escort joined the advance, for the old hero could not think
of remaining behind,
We
finally arrived
when
column
was
sent to the
by the
summit of
aid of a telescope.
that he
to their
now looked as
man examined
no Mexicans
consequently the
halted,
the Prairies,''''
preter,
if
we were
to
have a
to
make
it
Things
out.
and
all
Every
seemed
wil-
On coming
to the left of
it,
we
could see
NARRATIVE OF TH
5^
we
peared
oppose us,
to
camp
we
us,
of
apin-
terruption.
around
Mexican
carts, laden
soldiers,
way
San Rosallia.
to
It
halted,
This
and presently
we had
seen
Camanche
The
Indians.
cluding that they had been fooled once more, and that they
ought
to
but those
who had
medium
of trade,
did not just exactly steal them, but as the volunteers say,
We
friend
who
imagined
that
it
was no
illegal
good
Thus our
pretty
We
encamped here
for those
by
we
The
late
made upon
back.
price, viz
to fall
readers,
to
them,
in
they
after
The Mexicans
manner.
They had
lose much
to eat
sin
could
However, we
who
twelve-and-a-half
did
so
the
the evening
charge
CENTRAL
resting.
As
a matter of course^
We
we had an
paid a
51
we had
a chance of recon-
visit to
the rancho.
Here
We
slavery.
DIVISION.
we
beheld
about one hundred small huts, and in these there were indeed
objects of pity, living, or rather staying, in
filth
imaginable.
conjecture that
was
some of our
if
anti-slavery lecturers
there, they
at least
It
all
a subject
A German
we do
had been
expatiate on for
to
who had
blacksmith,
how
these folks
were reduced
it
for debt,
and held
to,
in slavery.
It
was impossible
extricate
to
themselves
was
In this
paid.
way
from two
to four
dollars per
Such wages
this
kind
Contiguous
to this
place
is
invalids resort
its
medi-
The
following
One
The
down
and
fell
in,
It
was exceed-
current
to the
oflf
was with
the
edge
bank,
the greatest
NARRATIVE OF THE
52
The
he was rescued.
difficulty that
Our march
this
we marched
in safety.
We
very early.
ed
down two
horse floated
and
this evening,
We
morning
in the
going ahead
we saw our
We enquired
worthy of
of
had an
old load in
in possession of
my
gun, and
it.
wanted
to discharge
my
young
We
told
him we had no
we
Finally
this distance
The column
to
come
goat.
a piece of
was not
visible,
being surrounded by
his,
hills.
city,
with
to-night?*'
it
it.
However,
just as
on
objection.
Captain
it.
sight
hills
which overlook
for him,
he arrived
come
He
to parley.
politely requested
him
him
to deliver
that
up
he would
To
Honor
to agree.
General
Wool
that evening;
did not
deem
consequently
it
necessary
we encamped
We
had depart-
line of
making
march,
CENTRAL
till
we reached Monclova
53
DIVISION.
travelling
distance of
417
miles.
On
the ensuing
mand
man
should be
shaved, and have his hair cut, and clean himself up in the
best
manner
possible.
54
NARRATIVE OF THE
CHAPTER
The Boys
VII.
IVIexican
Camp
the
Volunteers
to
forcement
regular
The
orders
we had
hair-cutling business
man
to
shave,
Division,
who
otherwise
stood
ranks
in
with
whiskered
thought themselves
tive
men
too.
It
wounded
their
very sensi-
fore.
drums
him
to
beat,
man
should be
CENTRAL
55
DIVISION.
and
thus they had to abide the consequences of appearing without being shaved.
We
ment
to
who,
in compli-
is a
young
and
We
had forgot
had taken up
to
to this
General Wool
ney.
companies of the
Morgan and
1st
Volunteers, under
Illinois
Captains
Here we had
all its
delicacies, but
mode
many
ered
how
at all
to
purchase anything.
We
by
the
Mexicans
You
easy matter.
start for
home.
along.
Then
that he
of mus-
I
I
"
O,"
said he,
then
lie in
and
be discov-
to
" that
when
a very
is
the
my
asked him
Mexicans
man comes
tlien I
have nothing
to
do but
help myself."
skeer the old
and said
we were
men
He
On
the 3d of
W. G.
command
squadron of
Preston's
company
of First Lieutenant
NARRATIVE OF THE
SQ
for
the
be ready for a
to
move
new
we
city.
not
because
it
would
were formed
the
As
w^e entered
we had
manner we entered
row
large
the city.
On
of seats
in a
In this
to
who
Accord-
line,
was
as white as alabaster,
was a
either side
and
at
inscription on
its
import.
On
arriving
it
roll
of the
drum.
The plaza
vault.
was crowded with Mexicans of all classes, from the aristocratic caballero down to the humble pion.
The cathedral,
which stands
in
piece of architecture
we
think
we
never saw.
It is
a better
equal, if
church
at
Saltillo,
of which so
much
we
CENTRAL
57
DIVISION.
tant,
of wood
trees,
On
visible,
for
a general rush,
this
Thus, from
fig
there.
made
molished them,
particle
sum
of $400.
who brought
wood
about ten
it
The consequence was that not a few fights came off in the
morning, because, as we have before said, money was somewhat scarce with some of the boys. They had, therefore^
to
come
The
us
to
where
we knew
to,
fifteen or
Wool and
It
this
to
this
to
be
ill
in the
make
to
march by
was very
afflictive for
Some went
little
its
so far as to sav
frictions
be dissatisfied.
army,
for
minded.
way through
very
Ii
{q\^^
the camp-,
is
truly dis-
whose disease
this
no
we
very tired.
be a
to
to
caused numbers
couraging
reaches
him
now began
Sickness
received orders to
the line of
and
not.
we
up
take
to
This
is
The
following day
Central Division.
names
The
we were
following
is
list
of the officers'
NARRATIVE OF THE
58
manding.
First Lientenant J. H.Carlton, 1st Dragoons, Aid-de-camp.
S. A.
J.
H. White,
do.
J.
W.
Captain
W. H.
Colonel
Bissel,
commanding 2d
Major
2d
Trail,
Illinois
Volunteers.
Volunteers.
Illinois
do.
do.
Volunteers,
Illinois
Captains
strong, and
Wheeler,
Miller,
Baker,
Coffee,
Lott,
Arm-
Lemon.
Texas Volunteers.
Captain Hunter's company of Arkansas Volunteers came
Moore, of the
The detachment
that
left
724
but in conse-
660 joined
us.
With
tliis
reinforcement,
We
we deemed
our-
any emergency.
into a regular
CENTRAL
guards were as follows
One main
5&
DIVISION.
There was
also
The
is,
were brought up
this
above punishment
to
Frequently
for trial.
to
fifteen or
after
twenty
for
without leave.
Thus our
However,
to
Mexicans, but
use his
own
provement of
his health
very sick, or
at least
when
appeared
so.
there, he
The
was generally
fact is,
we never
much work
trial.
would not
to serve
for the
Sergeant
but he would
said he
make
it
up
off the
Mexicans.
as long as
for
for
work, he
to do.
As
arrived, but no
marching.
prepara-
NAURATIVE OF THE
60
ready
was passable
for
rations,
They were
proceed on a scout.
to
Chihuahua,
to
and
be
to
also to reconnoitre
to ascertain if
wagons.
We
now commenced
American
and such
to
draw Mexican
wav
In the
stuff"!
flour, instead of
of making bread,
it
Was
Such food
used
in
our
was made up
into
of
And
friends,
left all
this stuff"
the delicacies
and everything
is
else, to
go and contend
for their
termed
to
American camp.
into the
and crackers
it
It
we do
not believe.
General was
in
to
to
impossible
to
blame
some Mexican
that
had necessarily
it
flour,
opportunity of slipping
once in a while.
supplies
It
was next
to
from
eur depots.
Had
a few
more
guerrilla
About
began
to get
CENTRAL
were issued
rations only
61
DIVISION.
to the troops.
caused
feel
still
what
it
more complaints.
was
to
to
them on
It
that
was
that
asserted
by
to
keep up,
a correspondent of a certain
to furnish
General refused
to
who
it
newspaper
we
cannot vouch.
As
If the
it
re-
brought
a hospital in town.
We
still
at least
for the
beginning to
to
which
be soldiers.
Sickness prevailed
mained
time,
had been
in operation,
we
What
NARRATIVE OF THE
62
CHAPTER
YIII.
The
Soil
Manner
of
Cultivation of Corn Indolence of the Inhabitants Manner of Conveying Water Farms without Enclosures Agricultural
Productions Sheep, Goats, Swine and Neat Cattle Mode of Cooking Victuals Higher Class Condition of Neat Cattle Sheep inferior Timber on the Mountains Country around Monclova City
of Monclova Mills and Flour Stores Trade from St. Louis.
Ditching
As nothing
this
time,
is
we
transpiring in
will
camp worthy of
note, just at
and Monclova.
We
so
much
has been
left.
so great between
it
us,
char-
The
what may
is
for the
contrast
hardly appropriate.
On
the
latter,
on streams.
As
inferior
for timber,
quality of musquit
none
is
is
to be found, save a
very
some
tolerably good
little
use
to
the
CENTRAL
63
DIVISION.
be of
growing on the
feet.
which
plains,
is
attains
the
height of twenty
It is
doors, &c.,
but
soil
Therefore
we
cannot
call
it
wood.
is
where there
making
for
is
course of a year.
The
There
or no service.
little
is
water;
in
such places
it is
is
so broken
it
holds out no
duces well.
It is
inducements
for emigration.
The
land which
is fertile
by
has
to
from August
last
time, and
what
to
little
there
It rains
is, is
of
little
of ditching and
By
this
way water
this plan, a
day.
We
consequence
flooding the
is
conveyed
farms
some stream
and in
rains continually.
it
The manner
June.
to
by
is
or spring,
and through
a ranoho.
to
some ha-
cienda or village.
The
want of
American farmer
is
attention,
in the
worth both.
very indolent.
They
for the
The
soil,
by shepherds or herdsmen.
Very
little
trouble
To
is
pre-
vent their intrusion, small huts are built around the farm, at
the distance of one-fourth of a mile, or less, according to the
NARRATIVE OF THE
64
man
is
stationed,
Mexico, are commonly nothing more than corn and red pep-
The
use
in everything.
of
it
They
pers.
latter is
We
chili,
tortil-
In the
Goat
cattle.
flesh
mostly broiled
smell and
it is
in this
which makes
it^
it is
which
taste,
cooked
table,
to a
When
all
peculiar to goats,
is
it
is
removed. After
We
in their opinion, a
This
is
of an
inferior
latter root
grows
quality), the
to
mon very
cattle are
meagre.
cabbage,
onions, &c.
it
is
classes.
Notwith-
We
trade or sell
could
feet.
call
If
you ask
"no
buenaj'*
inferior to the
at least
wool
is
American sheep
in
it,
so
fine'^
CENTRAL
that
fifty to
the Sabinass to
Timber
is
from
sell for
When
Monclova
uncom-
is
The summits
very scarce.
is
it.
6^'
sixty dollars.
monly mountainous.
it
DIVISION,
to the difficulty of
reaching
The
of
rolled off,
Sometimes
mountain.
it is
is
litlle
it
and then
falls to
There
fall
that
are a
few
we
opine, have
we have
thither, for
The
in
stale.
Monclova are
similar to
The
Sabinass.
those
soil fertile.
It
likewise seen
some
we suppose
We
want of attention.
ly attended
to,
it
It
We
produces equal
to
have
was owing
it
is
We
produces well.
to
imported
it is
to a
right-
However, unless land can be obtained in the neighborhood of water, we do not think it would produce at all,
on account of its being of a dry and sandy nature. Around
States.
Monclova, water
is
We
plenty.
must say
The
is
city
situated
previously seen.
between and
we had
in the
is
midst of small
hills
and ridges,
6*
We
its
way among
noticed several
NARRATIVE OF THE
66
make
good
We
flour.
There
are
some very
sell
there.
"that
is
woman
I did,
and
so
fortably."
We
asked him
ing there.
He
produce
as to their
it
how
manage
never could do
to live pretty
much
to the
camp-
Americans
not doubt.
country than
We
com-
money was
the
yellow fellows
"Like
money by marrying
saw
residing
have
intended at
We
something
kept by
We
goods high.
trader
The
quality.
but
its
about 10,000.
is
is
going on there^
we had
in
sus-
our steps to
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
67
CHAPTER IX.
General Melee about the Corn Laws Steel Mills Delegates Assembled A Speech made Order Commanded Speech Concluded
Committee Appears Resolutions Read The Indian Meeting Adjourns The Regular Insulted Officer forms a Guard Something
about Corn Prayer Meeting Officer's Plan frustrated Desired
of the Corn Meeting A Rumor Express
General Taylor
Trick played on an Officer Dialogue Lariat and SpurDischarged with an Admonition Nine Ears of Corn.
to
effect
It
was now
the 11th of
November.
general melee
come
into vogue,
already heard
of.
at
having
company of the
command)
was
San Antonio,
arise.
The General
making
in case
an emergency should
Mexican
flour,
own
had concluded
flour.
Accord-
The
They needed
a Sir
efi'ect
was
Robert Peel
so distinguished a
man
One evening
in his place.
after
nightfall delegates
from the
difl*erent
between the
from
either, so as
NARRATIVE OF THE
68
the camp.
in
corn
After appoint-
necessary
officers, ihey
meeting, by appointing
committee
to draft resolutions.
passed
He
Fellow citizens
have said
diers, as I should
tion to
me,
ble body
and
to
excuse me,
or,
if
you
It is a
In the
occasion.
plare, gentlemen, I
first
Volunteers as
Illinois
to
to
presume you
for.
all
here in order to
now
force,
in
one of them
witli
all-fired,
to
infernal, flam-
Perhaps
of corn.
ground,
fellow
it
Samson
that
citizens
hem
horrible
is
unable
to get
gentlemen, look
Just think of a
out of bed,
man
Now
at
the
being
out of his blankets, having to grind nine ears of corn for his
subsistence; isn't the idea shocking beyond anticipation?
I
wonder
of
if
these
humbug
officers"
in
[here
a quick turning
to ascer-
CENTRAL
tain if
we
any of those
DIVISION.
dignitaries
69
were present]
"think
that
we
people
The
idea
is
by grinding corn
preposterous.
you
I tell
that
By
upon."
we
please,
ular,
are
Vice President
When
crowd.
he heard the
last sentence,
"
order !"
say, order
it
Some
otherwise
made himself
it
of the
'tarnal regulars, as
imposed
You
he exclaimed, "
when we
this
ed
it all
for
to
beat
He
him.
"
am
the middle of
many
gendemen,
sorry,
my
discourse.
obstacles before
we
Just think
was no
We
have
to
how
meet with
that I
we
feel-
better
comes next
Why
and we are
told to
have
to eat hulls
About
this
and
lime
we
all."
thi?
NARRATIVE OF THE
70
concluded by saying
"
hope
to
such nefarious
my
you
return to
committee
sincere
The
was making
President
now
down, not on
on the
a chair, but
to
That
Resolved,
measures
for
existing,
much
the object of
to the
annoyance of the
was
to
is,
take
now
soldier.
who was
keep
meeting
this
law
in
to
" Gentlemen,
order."
by
is
way
of feeding volunteers on
nine
civilized people.
Indian.
" I suppose
it
is
be tolerated by Ingins."
to
" Order
I say,
we
General, in order
upon them
to effect
to
to
our respective
law.
Resolved,
be taken
until
we
Wool
to
use his
or Shields, his
we
name
him,
CENTRAL
man
him
to give
life.
Indian.
if
71
the all-firedest
"Yes and
President.
DIVISION.
one can
whip him,
't
TJl help."
"li"
Resolved, That
if
a*hem,
'11
his
in
to
you
camp."
orra-
ciousiy repeal the existing corn laws, this body shall meet
him
a vote of thanks.
laws
in
The
by
regular, stung
the insult he
tent
was
it
He
him
told
mutiny
who was
diately,
and marched
arrived
just in
time
particularly the
word
" What
President. "
Officer.
to
every day,
try to
do a
had met
camp, and
for
that they
last
resolution,
corn.
is all
this
crowd
thought
leetle better
Officer.-^'' I
the
in
Seeing
many dying
we would hold a prayer meeting, and
than we have done heretofore."
is
we
the
to the
off.
a regular,
off,
It is
that sickness
in
the
at
whose duty
had received
meantime went
purpose of raising
The
the
10 disperse all
camp.
the
in
" O,
that
a-hem.
prayers.
He was
who was
It
was
just at
let
us have plenty of corn for our horses, and that our nine ears=
NARRATIVE OF THE
72
The
was not
officer
manded
to
He com-
The
Thus
When
a general
the
officer
to the
guard
tent,
all
The
its
till
man
to
it,
the
farthest
said
"
waited
He
up with
prepare to throw
throw
and
line,
man who
Away
!"
we
to
met
camp
Wool
General Canales.
This caused
all,
by
was now
tain Porter's
ed
to
eight
Cap-
detail-
men.
to
go so
CENTRAL
great a distance through an
73
DIVISION.
the
rumor
that besides,
that
one party
to pieces.
honor
in
On
it.
them
This morning
night
upon
into
a Sergeant of the
After patrolling
stragglers.
all
played off
a trick
last
Arkansas
ing out
by
looked on them
was informed of
a regular officer,
The
Cavalry.
Many
as an escort.
F.
company with
across an officer, in
purpose of
some
time, he
start-
came
at
a great
rate.
Officer.
the orders of a
acting
Lieutenant."
" What
Officer.
does he order
Sergeant.
he
told
town ?"
officers out of
"
am
me
to take
officers out of
town,
do not know,
I will,"
will
Officer,
Now
sabre
you
you had
we
don't,
'II
'
I,
for if
Upon
his
is
have
to
do something
to
any
you
draw
trouble,
that
you
" Do
going to go now.
You had
'11
at the plaza.^*
this,
74
NARRATIVE OF THE
a lariat,
that
which he had
it
him
catch
to tie his
in a noose.
in
though
it
effect the
was
Sergeant.
Bill,
to
*'
He
he
"
said,
him
to slip yet, so
was not
mouth,
for his
He now saw
told the
The
deemed necessary.
if
that
Sergeant that
if
He was
along in peace.
willing to permit
men with
formed around
in a threaten-
walked
distant.
It is
needless
rated.
came within
until they
precaution
officer
through the
sight of the
not to go within
Xo
camp
yourself.
you have us
in
You
regulars
your power
great
so
you can
pop
it
to
town or
we
us every time
have popped
it
to
you
to the
this
camp.
CENTRAL
just as
you please
gallop
march
!"
75
DIVISION.
in
this.
And away
mortified officer to do as
right
in
turn
he pleased, either
Mexican guide.
to
go
to
camp,
However, we opine
Our
readers
will recognize
one
who
for
the nine ears of corn to be of the largest size and very best
quality.
NARRATIVE OF THE
76
CHAPTER X.
Cavalry and Dragoons to march Pelonselas and the Wooden Leg
Norther Joined by Major Borland Ordered up by
Experience
Daylight Sufierings from the Cold Entire Force Rest and Draw
Ten Dollars Marched through Town Our Indian used up Lost
a Hacienda Captain Davis not Massahis Tobacco Encamped
cred A Charming Place Intense Heat Food Improving Fare
tolerably well Poor Beef Troops Encamped and daily Drilled
Took up a small Cannon General Shields and Colonel Harney
Sad Parting Harney's Brass Band Auld Lang Syne Joined by
Paras Six
the whole Command Ordered to march Destined
Month's Spent Failure of the Project Reflections.
a
at
for
march on
be ready
Wagons were
everything appeared
we were
to
when
to
be in a bustle.
destined to go.
No
Anna had been in our camp, selling pelonEvery iNIexican huckster was closely
sellaSf in disguise.
scrutinized, to see if he had the appearance of having a wooden
notion that Santa
leg.
On
very dusty
eral tents
to the
Boreas,
in
camp
we experienced
the blow on us
were blown
in
a norther.
Being
was tremendous.
Sev-
left
CENTRAL
On
urvisio??.
the
at
77
4 o'clock,
W.
we were
joined
Glenn, Assistant
The
command, amounted
in this
to 164.
some
and who now came
at the
hot springs,
at
them up by daylight
the
next morning.
No
wind and
cold.
San Antonio,
pany of
to
The
now
troops were
at
pany of the
1st Illinois
Rio Grande,
for the
purpose of constructing a
in the field,
list,
fort,
at the
of which
left
com-
scout did
accompany
us,)
under
alry,
command
each
man
troops
to
to
to
march
come up
draw
whole
were ordered
command,
the
ten dollars.
and
their
wages here.
The
Dragoons and Infantry two months', and the Arkansas Regiments ten dollars
to
each man.
NARRATIVE OV THE
78
We
to get
work
difficult
some
they wanted a
little
of which they
knew
But
nothing.
Being attached
was very
it
to this
town
regiment, of course
to accompany it.
Marching onward, we observed our Indian,
we
had
camp
not seen in
Why, you
we were
go
to a
Monclova
in
so
We
show me where
there
from what
to
was
match
fellow took
my
it,
sin to General
we
entered
my
The
first
pockets.
I
over
it
threw
me
this
time.
over a fence, to
it
Wool.
because
We
came
if
as
you
tell
it
though.
and
felt
to talk,
hold of me.
laid
all
knife, but he
have seen
last
myself
for four
was a
Three
began
it
started,
One
would just
keep
we
off
me up
took
some Mexicans
got
So
was one.
They
my
was
the city.
supposed
thought
be so badly hurt.
to
remain
to
had
wonderfully
that
whom we
water
I left.
came
They had
across, I
"
It is
At
CENTRAL
get out here
We
he said
sir,"
it
the last
get
In the evening
miles
was
him he might
told
79
DIVISION.
we encamped
'm
used up Ingin."
at a
situated on the
worthy of
bank of
a small stream.
Nothing occurred
an express arrived
command, and
morning.
tain
to halt his
report at
This,
we presume, was
he was,
the
to
where
place.
shade of which the sick remained during the heat of the day.
We may
this season, is
impossible
can
lie
to
is
P. M.,it
warm
endure
it.
comfortable
is
From
to 3 o'clock, P. M.,
so intense that
3 o'clock,
and from
it
is
P.M., to 10
that time
till
sun-rise,
Thus our
some
to
improve
Mexican
also
to
flour.
draw one
Our
in quality, a train
half
having come
We now
rations of cofl^ee
was amusing,
idea
There
commenced
we
you
least inconvenience.
to
almost
o'clock,
we
men
practising
It
economy,
NARRATIVE OF THE
80
endeavoring
make
to
their small
They
far as possible.
its
flavor,
we
here
received, in
it
order to
at the
in drilling
on horse-
We
men having
rogated about
to
it,
the
Mexicans replied
we were
it
covered up,
On
being inter-
discovered
that they
Camanche
had
it
there
we do
ing in
It
its
was now
It
so
it
the 19th.
On
Col.
be of small
up with lead
filled
we
this
us,
left.
and
it
that Capt. Davis had really arrived and brought with him
orders for those two officers to join Gen. Taylor, and they
were then on
their
way, accompanied by
a detachment of
mand
It
was indeed
this
the
whole command.
man and
Har-
sented.
dif-
He was
man-
CENTRAL
ners, and
of a noble and
endeared him
to
81
DIVISION.
He was
every man.
never once
command,
until
known to
we reach-
when
teers,
was
it
needed.
He
Dragoons,
and,
to his
call his
allied,
hill
we had marched
soldiers were worn down
unfrequently, after
not
lively air, as he
squadron of Second
to
revive
spirits, for,
a double echo,
it
as
spirits.
it
sounded through
it
would
Indeed
call
us back to the
start
We
him
for
to
to
mented
The
But
la-
when we were
22d,
we had
lose Col.
left
until
command except
We
Regiment.
march on
the
the following
wind blew
\vere
the
all
to
morning
at four o'clock.
a perfect iuirricane.
The
next morning
knew where,
That night
We
set off,
we
no one
were, however,
NARRATIVE OF THE
82
point.
to that
we were
Chihuahua,
to
for
we were
not
to
await orders
immense wagon
train
soil
is
marched through
is
now
revealed to our
at
looking
eyes
Why,
the
the
good
great
town hardly
an inland
attainable,
we
army would now have more foot hold in Mexico than it has
because, they would have reached the field in time to have
;
participated in
Gen. Taylor
could then have advanced with more speed than he has done.
But, as
it is,
ing that the troops of Gen. Taylor's Division did, and travelled about four times as far
nine hundred
men
more expense
to the
But we
will not
finally
all, all to
say
which
division.
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
CHAPTER
83
XI.
Encamped where Gold had been Washed Water Good and Wood
Plenty Loud Complahits Marched through a Barren Country
Encamped in a Swamp Travelled Forty Miles Without Water^^
Troops Anticipate Suffering Suffering from Thirst Hard Heartedness of Teamsters Arrive at Water The Famished Soldiers
Treated with it Numbers Died Mules Died in their Harness
Express
Advantage over
Infantry Large
March
On
this
The house
tain
still
remains and
is
a place for
an
ariicle
arrival at
the
The
and washed.
The water
washing gold.
moun-
place for
which the
While the
off".
wood was
plenty
Monclova
until
now.
NARRATIVE OF THE
84
Many were
were destined
going
We
Paras.
to
many were
to go, for
The
where we
to
we were
Chihuahua, that
certain.
next morning
we were
we encamped on a sort of
water arose in a muddy or high
swamp
grass
near
spring,
swamp.
where
It
on account of
it
tlie
was exceedingly
it
difficult
being so boggy.
some
to get
horses
Wood was
very
Large
fires
extent.
in the
tance,
it
had
murmur
at the
submitted
in this last
to
But
his fate,
some sense
man
in
officer,
would curse
such a scrape.
There was
expression.
in
motion.
when
on us with
all its
now began
to suffer
from
thirst.
falling
back
ed wagoners,
it
for sale.
who had
way of
the sun
beamed
The
soldiers
be seen
We moved
Some
could
now
CENTRAL
85
DIVISION.
We
were
by one
told
Many became
worn
so
down
lie
in the
possible, then
till
the troops
all
at
rushed
to
to
it
quench
their
burning
We
mules were
water,
and drank
worse condition.
fed,
After the
wagons
arrived,
who were
down
this
and
worn
We
in despair.
in
such
to
out soldiers
selves
in a
Many
was good.
it
thirst,
but
when
lying, apparently
Numbers
to
died from
camp.
tiie
march.
It
was admitted by men who had been accustomed to the country, and who had travelled that same road before, that it was
the hottest
down
in their harness
We
memory
of
all
who
yet live,
who were
concerned
in the
86
NARRATIVE OF THE
adventures thereof.
It
man
will
be remembered as long as a
On
the 26th
toils
we were
that
is,
by any who
and privations.
who
for
we
left
Monclova.
We
received
some
letters
when they
and papers by
on
Saltillo.
The
ditch,
place where
a canal or
a large stream.
Some
of
Wool
structions
soon.
Had
the
course, they, in
Mexicans refused
this
day again.
Gen.
all
down
to let the
water have
its
headache."
it
it.
it,
feet high,
of a bayonet
applied the
The roots
The women will
Mexicans
hardly curable.
washing.
told
by a Spanish lady
for
We
CENTRAL
equal,
But
if
we have
enough
said
would
refer
where
it
We
87
DIVISION.
is
soap plant
to
to
Prairies,''^
described at length.
height of
inform
it is.
them
in regard to the
its
to
from the
We
about 25 miles.
would
liave
We had
this day.
prevented us
camp
for
which
a shorter distance.
at
Our
corn, to feed
gone
it is
readers will no
wagons with
corn, and
The
some of them.
a hard lot to
travelling
is
concerned
The
heaviest share.
necessary duties
their
horses,
and
coming
infantry, on
own
into
camp, have
to
duties.
The
in
next day
some
we
fires
in
the
the cause
to
camp
us.
mountains.
was explained
to receive
They
pay-
NARRATIVE OF THE
Sd
Here
Antonio.
rumor was
several
However,
that
some
there,
ference of
Mexicans had
who
assured them
The boys on
catastrophe."
trouble, and as
recompense
his
for
scarce, of course
it
came
good.
We
morning tolerably
known
so well
The
to the soldiers.
early.
Our
deserts,
now
suffering for
want of
The
we encamped
place where
what
side of
is
in the
dug
for the
commonly dug
more
or
We
tank
is
in
to cross
purpose
them.
was
a tank
on
on some other
subject.
he part of the
we
did
better for
It
As
them
readers
may
to
Our
to
think,
were justifiable
in
what ihey
CI:NTftAL DIVISION.
89
our object
is,
We
sides.
as
will
we have
now give
all
it,
But
judge
to
for themselves.
left
a stream, fronting
encampment would be on
towards
it,
the rioht
their horses,
it
was very
unpalatable, indeed.
The
impression
left,
filthy as
He
would be
it
came
the
officers
into
rectified
it
to
usuaL
this
no longer.
on the other
right,
side, so that
pitched
when
camp back
to the
Immediately
and
one
for
his
However,
that
longer.
after this
also
remove
arrest,
to
his
under the
Lieut. Colonel
its
original posi-
to
do
so.
if
He also
8*
NARRATIVE OF THE
00
received orders
What
Wool we
General
with
than
were now
all
Captain
when he went
under arrest
appear at
he returned
less authority
officers
to
The staff
command of
tliere.
hence
the
in the
command remained
in its
newly assumed
position.
The
next day
we marched,
rocks.
It
we had
yet
to a
it
left
was
being
the
best
from Monclova.
The General
miles.
He judged
very early,
for
at
it
best to
that
encamp, and
start
next morning
We
it
would
therefore
of
suffering.
Accordingly,
at
remained behind,
for the
came
on.
The
way by
cavalry
We
had encamped.
Our march
sandy plains
this
about 12 miles,
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
91
Who it was told the General that there was no water for
36 miles, we know not; but whoever did so was mistaken.
From
abundance
in
in fact
it
was one
field
We
the neighborhood.
in
this
we had an abundance
evening
of
it
for them.
The
next day
we had 20
We
any
On
we
o'clock.
country.
We
we had
first
house
built in the
to
On
mechanic.
Manual was
great
American
extent.
style, that
Here we saw
the richest
man
in that part
up
the
Don
Mexicans
men
as
that he
knew
of the
He
government similar
We
of.
will here
army
United States.
to a glass of
few such
to that of the
mention
Rico"
As he
did not
NARRATIVE OF THE
92
man
of his word.
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
9,31
CHAPTER XIL
Encamped Three Miles from Town A Visit from the Alcalde Arrived
Paras Sickness again
Camp The Disobedient Officers
Acquitted Almost an Open Rupture The Drunken Sergeant
at
in
Encampment by
Mexican supposed
to
be a Spy
Captain Preston's Company sent Scout Coffee again Withheld Description of the Country about Paras and of the Town
obtained^
Corn Luxuriant Manners and Customs How Wood
An Express from General Worth The whole Army in Motion
under way
Advance Next Morning
The Cavalry, &c., go
Patos
Accomplished Thirty-one Miles next Day Encamped
Orders issued to make no Noise All moved, taking a Circuitous
Agua Nueva Cooked Noth-.
Route A False Alarm, and arrive
ing
two Days Orders to March to Monelova Inspecting and
Reviewing the Troops Report of Three Thousand Mexicans Two
Companies Started Captain Hoffman's Retreat Large Santa Fe
Wagons Wagons Crowded Hoaxed Again The Christmas Frol General Wool called a Coward Retreated to Encantada Joy
to
is
all
in
at
at
for
ic
General
Among
Nueva
the Troops
Arkansas
We
encamped
about three miles from town, on ground that had once been,
a lake, but
reach.
several excel-
We
were hardly
more of
in
was
rather
camp when
warm.
the Alcalde and
in three
some
carriages, each
the use of
NARRATIVE OF THE
94
lines, but in the
manner
wagoner usuaIFy
a Pennsylvania
leader horse.
else,
like
fashioned, the wheels being very large and strong, and the
axletrees being sufficiently strong for
Col.
Hardin ordered his band out and they entertained them with
some very
We
fine music.
December, having
Monclova on
days of
left
22d of No-
the
this
camp
to a
great extent.
of no consequence, but
Sickness again prevailed
in
out,
in
It
fallen into
known
in
cases
lain
camp,
man
exposed.
and
down
in the
we have
evening and
town on the
in
forming a police.
5lh,
for the
About
purpose of
this time,
to their
respective
offices.
An
CBNtRAL
xiaused an
On
lars.
Sunday some of
obtained
who had no
into
passports
for the
;
There was
town.
compel
to
no passport.
In the
that
had been
to
all
in
at
purpose of arrest-
and undertook
men
go
to
dragoon patrol,
ing those
95
Division.
some of
the
across
Capt. Pike's
to
company of Ar-
who had returned by this time, remarkwho were there had their passports. The
ed
to
him
that all
willing to
comply with
his passport
his sabre
had
The
The drunken
and reduced
was adopted,
ranks.
for,
to
to
camp and
to
now drew
to
charges against
sergeant
and proceed
to leave
was not
was expired.
and made
of his cap.
said that he
It
was well
ser-
preferred
tried,
found guilty,
that
such a course
when
our
the
ican
was
taken,
to
Mex-
a draft of
a spy, and
be a Mexican
artist.
draft of
He was
it,
for the
purpose of displaying
of course acquitted.
NARRATIVE OF THE
While
this
became very
general.
when Captain
company, Arkan-
Porter's
days'
On
company, of
Patrick's
the
provisions, to
on
a scout.
We
will
moments,
now
in order to
the country in
its
vicinity.
similar to
Some of
we
the houses are of a finer and more tasty quality than any
The church
high.
The
we had
was
is
at
Monclova.
is
It
was
The
We
any
fit
be luxuriant.
to
built of
corn appeared
which by
time
this
is
made, of a
tolera-
to
a long hill,
of
tlie
On
Mexicans here
are simi-
bounded
donkeys.
is
by packing
is
Wood
it
on
wood
for
them
at
Uncle
Sam's expense.
On
arrived
from General
Worth,
at Saltillo,
that place.
stating that
the
In three fourths
CENTRAL
97
DIVISION.
of an hour from the time the express had arrived, the whole
army was
were taken
Porter's
The
motion.
in
to
company
Orders were
who were
sick,
unable
to travel,
Captain
in a hospital.
left for
him
to
remain
at
left
there,
a few.
The
whereabouts.
orders for him to join the main body on the Saltillo road, by
The
went
The
to the
hacienda of
advance, and
in
went
infantry
there
encamped.
The
next morning
before day
same
dis-
night
we
In
this
encamped about
the
same distance
apart.
at
We
the
were now on
a forced march.
The
miles.
The
next day
we
we accomplished
thirty-one
travelled
camped near
a small
have occasion
to
town
called
Patos, of which
for
halted at
distance, and
enwill
speak hereafter.
San Juan,
who
we
encamped
the
rancho of
The
at the
infantry
rancho
of Muchachos.
Orders were
now
at
tattoo or
reveille,
because the
NARRATIVE OF THE
98
enemy were
The
that, if
The
company,
Moore's
come
us here
the ford of
in
thus
We proceeded about 10
was
miles,
when
army
Agua
a few hours.
save broiling a
ing
but
it
had the
We
the
train
San Juan.
reached
arrived at Affua
morning,
him
The
until they
with them.
for
eat*
the rancho of
On
little salt
in
to
Monclova on
the following
to coine
march
men
up immediately.
24th
set off
which
on their journey.
On
who was
in
command
remain
at
that
CENTRAL
99
DIVISION.
force
enough.
in inspecting
Hoffman (then
at
away
sick
that
were there.
all
the
They
if
travelled about
Mexicans
it
was best
to
Paras
After holding a
force.
cept twelve,
in
for
by some wagons,
bring
to
Fe wagons,
" rico,^^
away
all
or
wealthy
The
priest
promised
to take care
fourteen
for so
many
With
the
sick
men
to
assistance of
have
the
a false alarm.
It
was undoubtedly
a piece of
NARRATIVE OF THE
100
Mexican stratagem
fast as
to
to
American
soldiers
were not
On
this day,
frolic,
Mr. Dyer,
our situation.
at
camp, looking
in
named Dogtown, on
the Sail Luis Potosi road, while General Wool commenced
Here it was that he was publicly
his retreat towards Saltillo.
"ied a coward, and published as such by some petty corcompanies, had been sent out
to a place
respondents of newspapers,
employed
in attending to
their
better
penning such
duties, than
falsehoods.
It
General
for
Wool
to
have
He
it
advisable to
the
was rumored
command
On
to a stronger
in
camp
to be united,
in person.
to
Here he was
He encamped
on the
Captain Hoffman
to re-
further orders.
until
many
halted.
Worth were
back
fall
Wool and
A
this
to take
was manifested
by so
CENTRAL
Next morning
march
to a
on the road
DIVISION.
the Arkansas
ceedings of the
Buena
this time
being attached
accompany
to
it,
to
but through
we were
whole Division.
of
We,
that place.
this
to
On
101
went
into
his
camp.
camp
to the
lo
:,
rancho
About
to
to
United States
the
Bonneville's
command
of
to
in
for
Batallion,
consisting of
Major
Captains Hoffman's
left for
to
Patos.
Having lagged
ran
to
some
thick chaparals,
to
his horse
far distant,
concealment.
he then
until
Occasionally, he said,
firing at
their place of
the balls
gone
Injin, sure
NARRATIVE 01 THE
102
hi?
horse, for
the
wolves quarrelling about the choice pieces, but took the back
track and
camp.
came through
We
gullies
he
The
M.
holler.
Giles, of Capt. C. C.
and proceeded
to
ascertain
for a guide,
up
to
all
the
Mexicans, they
when he
fell
behind.
to
After this
CENTRAL DIVISION
CHAPTER
Things Went on Very
Well Clothing
103
XIII.
for the
Arkansas Regiment
all
in
Saltillo
at
it
it
to
at
at
at
Buena
On
in
both camps.
was
Gen. Wool
stationed at
New
The
troops
lord's companies,
ment
well
at
4he clothing
need not
for the
a little.
before, but
They
now, with
it
stood in
their
remarkably well.
On Sunday
to
NARRATIVE OF THE
104
march of
Saltillo.
fail
have a
camp
believing
it
tado.
men
in
to be a hoax.
time.
fight this
at
Patrick's squadron at
were about
that
fifteen
had necessarily
be guarded.
to
Patrols were sent out daily from the six companies at Encan-
all
we
could judge,
in
the
neighborhood.
Things went on
at this
rate
until
Major Gaines,
tlie
of the
us,
and
we
think
it
to
is
talent suffi-
who
command
of
CENTRAL
that
The
reason
About
to
company, Second
San Antonio
left at
Monclova with
have occa-
shall
time
this
N. T. Gaines.
First Lieutenant
sion to
er's
105
DIVISION.
Illinois
He
to
had come
to
a train,
mand.
The
the
now
all
up, and
we heard
that
Monterey from
Victoria,
About
this
command
in person.
this, for
Ready,
that they
until
all
at
to take
much
hearing
Monterey
wished
to see
Rough and
of old
He
him.
remained
at
when he removed
for Saltillo, bringing all the troops but a small force left to
About
at
this
Nueva and
called in,
name
of
the one
Polomos,
to a
pass twelve
to
prevent sur-
to garrison the
Saltillo,
place with
and
two com-
On
the 4ih,
Wool.
On
this
were ordered
to
a junction
at Saltillo,
with Gen.
to
On
NARRATIVE OF THE
106
to
Now
Agua Nueva.
tral
no more
jfinally
but
we
became of
will
endeavor
The
it.
The
the
names of
command
command
tiie
Col. Davis
name
an account of what
following are
viz:
to give
the Cen-
that
command
of
the
of Colonels
McKee
command of
Dragoons, under
the
the
Second Kentucky
May
and
encamped
at
respecting
to
do
so,
because
the Central
promise.
About
down
tain
this
commanding
we
think
when
Cer-
general.
freely, but
called
it
rather
men
who committed the tragedy were justifiable. The statement we are about to make may be depended on as correct.
Being a member of the same regiment, we would not have
We but give the
our readers think that we are partial.
already been
has
So
much
as
they
occurred.
naked facts
said about it that is not true, that we feel ourselves bound to
refute
The
some of
it.
On
company
B.,
CENTRAL
had just bought.
was noticed
Il
lOt
DIVISIOX.
that
he was
men
that a
morning
this
in
man
small parly of
Upon
was.
by
had
the
He
out
now became
It
happened
It
absent.
still
at
Morn-
this
told
some
of the
men went
their search
pointed
to the place
who
some murderous
ran-
chero.
was around
lariat
He was
tied fast,
his neck,
and
ofl".
partially
bush,
tlie
On
sunken or
it
his
to
in a position
which showed
picture.
mangled
He was
in a
him
had received
to
hearted deed.
in the breast of
into
men
camp, and
after
collected together
in
camp,
There
kansas Regiment
Hunter.
tried
and sympathy
go
horrible
and resentment
least feeling
he had
countryman.
was
that
and agreed
It
it
tied
hands was
sat the
to
when they
viz
NARRATIVE OF THE
108
and started
off,
unknown
ticulars
plicit
we must
to either
We
confidence.
We
of those officers.
in
whom we
were on duty
at the
not
They proceeded up
the party.
into the
On
it
was
entirely
gap of a mountain,
discovered
like a
in
rancho appeared.
name on
having his
it.
answer.
this
On coming
up, Captain
Crow,
thought
pens by
to
and
as he afterwards stated,
saw
men,
and
Mexicans
thirty dead
children^ as
some
trifling
correspondents
stating.
none present.
As
to
We do not
women and
children, there
woman
committed, no one
is
the wiser of
If
it
were
march
ever heard
it.
The Arkansas men returned, but not under guard, for the
gallant Illinoisians knew too well the cause which led them
CENTRAL
109
DIVISION.
lo
of ihem.
court of inquiry
his
At
this court, a
any
for the
to arrest
We
affair.
Several
stated
implicated.
word
to
a discovery of
sent
was
to
punish them
all
the
Rio Grande.
real party.
We
believe,
He
together.
for they
however, that
march
knew
not
they had
if
feel
man
qualified to be in
Mexico.
Here
the six
companies
Illinois troops
four.
at least
in
camp.
know what
else to
Money
do with
One could
10
no
A
NARRATIVE OF THE
box
a chuckeluck
into
fits.
was
We
were
told that
troduction to the
We
were not
present, and therefore cannot vouch for the truth of the asser-
He was
tion.
He
him.
At
by saying
this
'
Such
In
fact, in
less
time than
we
can describe
every
it,
left
alone
was now
command
Arkansas Regiment,
command
piece of Capt.
of First
Lieut.
it
enemy
in the
CENTRAL
CHAPTER
Confirmation of a Mexican Force
Army
in
Motion
Col.
Ill
DIVISION.
XIV.
in the
McKee kept
Wagons to
The
Gen.
Neighborhood
Encarnacion
at
whole
Wool
Buena Vista
bring in the Remainder of the
Stores Alarm Taken and Times Look Squally Rancho on Fire
An Awfully Grand Scene Santa Anna's Stratagem to Hold up
Orders Given, but Helter Skelter was the Order Arrival at Buena
Proceeds
to
in
in
in
On
the
Mexican
was marching
issued to march
tents
to
immediately.
to go.
was confirmed
Many were
motion and
to
ofT,
Saltillo.
that a large
about to retreat
in
it
to attack us,
now
struck
the conjectures as
said that
we were
army was
Artillery,
were kept
at
him.
section
of
assist-
Illinois
to
to
there encamped.
at
Saltillo,
along
NARRATIVE or THE
112
Artillery.
mand
upon him
to
destroy
all
if
the
enemy came
Accordingly the
that remained.
mid-
ex-
in,
cept the one at rancho San Juan, which was ten miles dis-
A man was
tant.
enemy
Some
We
of the
men had
we
German
observed an old
lost his
Oh py
!
and
if I
his neck,
We
In the
saw
and asked
faster as
in
two
filling
"
them
to part
the
lost their
to
mean time
was
which sent
It
the rancho
"
set
on
fire,
as
was
also a
upon the
indeed, and had the Mexicans been within six hundred yards
to halt
and admire
the scene.
The
troops
fax
CENTRAL
enough back, so
DIVISION.
as not to be seen by
11^
we remained
enemv to give
a cordial
their countenances,
to
it,
but Santa
This he
now
who
visited
Anna hearing
we were about
told, after
him
in his
Away
the
giving
the battle, to
camp.
was of no conse-
appeared
it
and
leave.
way,
In this position
them
that
When we
Encantada, Col.
We
arrived at
McKee came
ket,
stampede^
real
man was
we have no
where,
doubt,
o'clock, A.
First
in
not of a
fight.
enemy was
movements of the
that the
Illinois
at the
approached.
in full retreat,
pass,
on
a parapet or breastwork,
we were
M., and
in.
to
genuine
arrived at
felt
him
he
as
on coming up,
to
receive such
salute.
ed off
to
meet the
foe.
in line
and march-
10*
NARRATIVE OF THE
114
seemed
every
to inspire
man
new
with
the affray.
of the
was
and come up
to
it
We
man.
to a
toil
Wool
who had
it
little
band,
We
Buena
were concerned
account, and
ity,
we
but
will
we have been
endeavor
correctness.
When we
to
do
requested to give a
it
to the best of
our
us with
immediate movements of
abil-
not censure
full
this
we
must
notice
the
corps, not
On
the
follows
the pass,
where
left
next the
hill
which was
The
McKee,
was
stationed on a hill
Washington's Battery.
works on
Illinois
Regiment occupied
the breast-
Washington's Battery.
Illinois
two
The
Volunteers,
The 2d
Illinois
CENTRAL
Regiment,
Capt.
to
DIVISION.
115
company
Seefeld's)
The Indiana
Brigade, composed of the 2d and 3d Regiments, commanded
by Colonels Bowls and Lane, the whole commanded by
placed on the
left
The Kentucky
Indiana Bri-
command
Cavalry, under
of Colonel
were stationed
The
mountains.
to
rifle
second
line,
towards the
Kentucky Regi-
the
treme end,
About
at the foot
of the mountains.
this
Saltillo,
The enemy
halted just
beyond cannon
movement of
the
enemy appeared
on making
Taylor
despatch the 2d
to
demonstration on his
Bragg's batiery of
shot,
began
displaying
to
push
as if
his
This
he were determined
left.
Artillery, supported
by Capt. Pike's
in
to take part
second
line.
in rear
of the
NARRATIVE OF THE
116
for the
to
on us.
tion
left,
Gorman, were
Brigadier General
a section of Capt.
extreme
left
to
prevent the
road,
to the
the
men
on our
fire
rifle-
The
firing
to
Indiana
men
was here
that the
There
It
the
At
this
the
by
They
and second
first
came
fire,
in
fires
stood
terrified,
there
and
When
Saltillo, to
arrange
aff'airs at
that place,
Taylor returned
and
to
to
guard against
General Minon and his cavalry, taking with him the Missis-
CENTRAL
sippi Regiment, and a
The
117
DIVISION.
About 10
Arkansas Regiment,
The
how
to
him never
We
arrived.
himself.
He
remained
at
the rancho of
to ours,
San Juan
seen
the
lig-ht
hearing no guns
a
common
on the
fire
concluded
fired,
niffht
was dry
it
until about
in.
until the
He
had
however,
ed,
of the
from
which
He
is
wait-
He
started, but
far,
saying that
if
the
He came
on about
five
miles, and
like
he thought them
my
but
The
ene-
to take
NARRATIVE OF THE
118
and get past, but on coming within sight of them, he discovered the Mexican army, encamped right at the head of him
at
So he made
Encantada.
movement
way by which
he might be enabled
Mexicans discovered
this
reach
to
movement
also,
ed the
hill,
sume,
As he ascend-
them
to
but conjecturing
to follow,
had a
full
we
as
He
full,
He
his course.
Such
in."
it,
pre-
their
men
to
The
beckoned
to find a
Saltillo.
It
said he
number of
appeared," he said,
still
pouring
way he
In this
defile.
travelled
They had
the appear-
way
along the
in sight of Saltillo.
He now
continued his
place.
He
returned
ed to Col. Yell,
his
men's
report-
safety.
was twenty.
defile,
we deemed
it
our duty
to
record
it
CENTRAL
119
DIVISION.
CHAPTER XV.
The Battle Continued Loss of America's Bravest Sons The Troops
Want
Suffer for
the
of
Fire Despatch
Enemy Shocking
Wounded
Wounded Mexicans
Dead The Troops Encamp at
Women Hunting
up
Seeming
Troops Engaged in Burying the
Buena Vista Coffee Procured Fresh Meat Desired A Drove of
Affliction of
Sheep Devoured.
About 2
were driven
in,
at
break of day,
in the
Major
mountains, between their infantry and our riflemen.
Trail, 2d Illinois Regiment, was ordered to the support of
Col. Marshall with his battalion of riflemen.
now opened
fire
upon our
left
The enemy
had
commenced
to
ascend
it.
The 2d Kentucky
Infantry
and Bragg's battery of Artillery were ordered from the extreme right, and Sherman's battery was ordered up from the
rear, to take post with Col. Bissel's
2d
Illinois
Regiment,
a plateau
up a pretty brisk
About
fire.
8 o'clock, the
enemy made an
artillery, to
charge Captain
after a
few
In connec-
NARRATIVE OF THE
120
moved
against our
left,
moun-
at the
somewhat
in the rear
-right of the
on the
front line.
Capt. Price's
Artillery.
upon us from
his fire
all
quarters,
battery.
The whole
fire
left,
two companies
most galling
and
Bowls gave
to
with his
some mis-
retreat,
from
fire
in great disorder.
On
running
in
pushed
oflf
for
quarters
as the
Some
mountain.
the
men appeared
their horses.
believe they
Any
more
were such.
safe.
like
one
at a
distance
Some of
these
led to
CENTRAL
rallied,
and
DIVISION.
Regiment. In consequence of
121
Colonel
the Mississippi
in
ican
near that
it
to fall
of his pieces,
all
the
men and
enemy was
so
Mex-
fell
horses belonging to
having
it
pelled to
fall
About
was attempting
who were
this
enemy
in
immi-
Here
enemy was
driven back.*
on
to the
The
A.t this
of turning our
to
rancho.
action
this
from
By
were enabled
left flank.
infantry,
who were
came
in the
left
into
act
11
in the
Appendix.
NARRATIVE OF THE
122
our
to reinforce
enemy
ground we had
left.
Be giment, under
Colonel Hardin,
lost.
at that point.
The enemy
still
tucky Cavalry,
fortunate
selves,
to
enough
loss.
to get their
horses had
now
joined them-
were compelled
to
fall
hosts of
was ordered
enemy
on coming up
in
This
field.
to
where the
command was
left
a very unpleasant
the
or-
Arkansas
predicament.
Sherman's
batteries,
italics
CENTRAL
among
the
enemy
123
DIVISION.
at
left,
quarter, and
their
main
Is^
were attempting
they intended
to
charge, but
fire
retreat
it
to the
and disperse
was impossible
to effect this,
While
this
tion of the
Buena
Vista.
charge on upon
to
Their move-
rear.
it,
in
which
their charge.
fell
back
In
the
this
The Ar-
position
upon
to
them.
to
line.
to obtain a safe
meanwhile, the
Lieut. Col.
May
had also
to assist in
enemy had
when
most bloody
space of a minute and a half (the time the fight lasted) up-
killed
They
to yield,
enemy.
NARRATIVE OF THE
124
deadly
Col.
fire
May
by
At
there.
this
time
enemy had
left
The remaining
In this charge
fell
left.
It is
said that
fell
a victim to the
Mexican
it
lancers.
Company D, Arkansas
Capt. Porter of
was owing
to
his
becoming ungovernable
portion regained
Here
fell,
also,
jutant
the squadron
was doing
The
critical,
fearful execution.
so
much
so that
it
comfiture.
to
He
the inven-
know what he
deputed
by
to reply.
wanted,
He
proceeded
to
the
forthwith
Mexican battery
at
consequence of a refusal
to
that he
wanted Santa
for
had
it
Central
division.
126
not been for this piece of cunning craftiness, our troops could
have prevented his cavalry from joining his main body, but
in consequence of the cessation of firing on the part of our
troops, they
were enabled
to
howMcCul-
own
hook, but
had very
it
little effect.
Lieut-
men and
killed
horses almost
all
they
fell
into
the
or
his
enemy marched
thousand reserve, now
the
the
to
his
He was
wounded.
centre,
intending
to
From
bringing
make
a last
this
up
point
his
six
and despe-
rate effort.
Second Begiments
Illi-
McKee.
These were
Gen. Wool,
tliat
his
men
tore
down
He
all
under the
once remarked
ranchos, but
now
to
the
fight.
if
you do not see another rancho torn down, why I'm not here."
True enough, as the enemy arose on the other side of the
ravine, the lliinoisians let loose, and
sheet of
fire
it
NARRATIVE OF THE
126
said, they did tear
down
thereof.
fall
Tliis
was the
hottest and
most
critical part
of the action,
way when
for
some
enemy
Gen. Taylor made use
rear,
time, but
was
It
checked and
time
at this
them such
ting gave
who had
the
them
to
flight,
eflfort
enemy's
artillery
fiorht.
last
and ours
until
dark, when, as
if
by
best
repose, no
complished
that
more
have sunk
to
their long
and undisturbed
ofiicer;
while in
camp he was
Jackson.
His only
fault in
were
to
voices.
friend,
they
killed
which the
who have
Napoleon, Wellington, or a
battle was, he was too forward
to a
for the
enemy.
/hen we look
battle
left
to
mourn over an
irre-
CENTRAL
parable loss,
it
McKee
Yell, Hardin,
l27
DIVISION.
Such
raeti as
at the
present day.
That night
not a
ranged
ar-
if a
little
at the
in that quarter from the Mexwho had menaced our rear during the day, they
a fair way to receive them.
Their cavalry, under
ican Cavalry
would be
in
command
above
Saltillo,
the city,
field to
likewise a
mand
of miscellaneous
directed shots
battle
artillery,
mounted
whom
they killed.
supported by a com-
the
into
ravines.
off,
plain.
On
the
day in order
to
at
day-
this
day,
la
Palma was
re-
ferred to as a sample.
it
enemy had
retreated,
throughout the
to the
and the
camp.
plateau, and
We
there
NARRATIVE OF THE
128
saw
column
his last
continued
as
it
to
us three cheers.""
cordial cheers
On going out,
we ever before
that
was
covered with
literally
the
witnessed.
The ground
men wounded, dead and dying,
were
sufficient to
most blunted
still
alive,
also noticed
present
at the
time of the
We
We
behind until their army retreated, and, not finding their hus-
among
seek them
the dead.
We
many
to
we came upon
that place
their piquets
a great
in.
It
grew
was our
who, notwithstanding they were worn out and exfiring occasionally.
It
comrades
their
lie
bones
to
CENTRAL
clime.
129
DIVISION.
actions, they
were attend-
ing the solemn rites with the honors of war, and never were
those honors
The
now
troops were
Vista.
ordered
to
enemy,
wanted
to
to act as a piquet.
It
was here
On
Agua Nueva.
miles distance,
army
approaching within
the
that Lieut.
in their
sight,
Rucker
camp
at
Seeing
battle.
who was
this, the
command,
in
Lieuten-
to charge,
but that officer refused, and good reason he had for declining
the honor.
However
who was
in
command, thought
Buena
a
Vista.
cup of
Some went
to
coffee, a beverage
work
to
camp
at
Many were
when suddenly,
Isrealites,
to the
It is
as if
a drove of
remained or escaped.
NARRATIVE OF THE
130
CHAPTER XVI.
Causes of
Mexicans Leaving their Wounded
our Hospitality An Election Held Mexican
Wounded
a Starving Condition A Sickening Sight American
Deserters Five Day's Rations
the Wounded Mexicans Gen.
Taylor goes
Pursuit of Gen, Urrea Encantada an Outpost Gambling the Order of the Day Again Ingenuity of the Indian while
Engaged
Capturing Mules Capture of Chihuahua A Forgotten
Thing brought Forward Gen. Taylor Countermands Camp Talk
Camanche Indians Havoc among the Ranchos Camanches take
the Suckers' Caps The Caravan Stopped and the Indians Victorious
Pretty Spectacle Shy Looking Fellows Recruiting Commenced
and a New Company Formed Visited by two Mexican Officers
Carrajo Purport of the Mexican Officer's Despatches Gen, TayNumber
Report of the
Different Reports
of Killed,
Wounded and
Troops remain
Missing
Buena Vista
at
to
in
left for
in
in
lor's
Reply.
The
troops remained at
Buena Vista
(alas
!)
during
had an
We
fectly satisfied.
honor
following
is
day
after the
of the killed,
Different reports
make
per-
to his race.
The
battle,
the
mention
number
is,
still
that a vast
Our
number
report
died of their
may
wounds
shortly
be relied on as accurate
CENTRAL
Major Generals,
DIVISION.
wounded,
*
killed,
Brigadier Generals,
General
131
*'
Staff,
Artillery,
"
22
Fourth Artillery y
**
"
21
First Dragoons^
'
Second Dragoons,
'*
'*
**
Third
Kentucky Cavalry,
Arkansas Cavalry
27
"
23
40
40
56
"
29
"
"
"
Mississippi Riflemen,
*'
34
18
48
44
"
"
32
"
"
Texas
"
14
'
Infantry,
Total,
Missing.
Third
sissippi Riflemen, 2
Kentucky
Infantry,
Infantry, 7.
On
Second
273
464
Arkansas Cavalry^ 4
Illinois Infantry,
that the
Mis-
Second
^',
;
Texas
We
to
and
tents
On
56
number of wounded
Illinois
71
Total, 23.
Agua Nueva.
and found
ing a
57
'
the
started for
Artillery, 2
75
was held
in the
leav-
These were
to Saltillo.
Arkansas and
In the
1st
first,
Roane was elected Colonel, vice Col. Yell, deceased, and Adjutant Mears Lieutenant Colonel, vice Lieut.
Lieut. Col.
was
NARRATIVE OF THE
132
On
the 1st of
of wagons, loaded
partly with
army had
left
number of
a vast
began
to
The
became sickening.
filled.
because, from
provisions,
that the
there,
Mexican
who were
On
to
in
we
Encarnacion the
wounded were
dead, dyingand
crowded together.
was
we heard
wounded
Encarnacion,
to
a starving condition.
all
proceed
to
what
Was
he
ambitious
may end
manner
terminate in a
The
most ardent
hospitals of Encarnacion.
We
it.
who were
yet
lion
or tiger, in a
in a
Some
unloaded, and
sat,
and wanted
to return to the
to
was taken on
the
do with them.
American camp,
have nothing
of the reality of
He
told
one of them,
it
would take
to
he was not
that
shoot him.
who
They
were,
left,
they
CENTRAL
When we
Followed.
133
DIVISION.
last
it
besides
shot
Some
of the
wounded were
Provisions for
for
it
great
days were
five
would not be
left
sufficient
We
camp on
Agua Nueva
arrived in
remained
at
2d March, and
occurrence.
On
we ail
It now seemed as though we were
long time, which we actually did.
marched
for
destined to
The
Buena
lie in
Vista.
camp
the 8th
needed
it.
The
We
to
all
march
divert-
for
Ca-
margo.
of the day.
The
came
horses
off every
running, and
officers acting as
day or two.
we
likewise
We
fleet
known
12
NARRATIVE OF THE
134
in
mules, which had strayed over the plain, with his lariat or
lasso.
terity.
He realized
handsome
a pretty
for
and
who
Sometimes
the
to
to
profit
by this business
foot,
much expense.
their prop-
prove
it,
and take
it
away.
In such cases
he procured a piece
Time went on now without any striking occurrences, until the first of April, when we heard of the battle of Sacramento and the capture of Chihuahua, by Col. Doniphan.
This was the
battle that
the
in a
Division.
into a battle,
Column" had
perfectly satisfied.
was ordered
to
They were
proceed forthwith
to
Chihuahua, as bearer of
which
this time
which came
oflf
the
affair
killing
CENTRAL
march
their
men
the
hands
all
it
much
was
to start
Rio Grande.
for the
be getting that
them
135
committed.
up
DIVISION.
They
hard.
ordered to take
The
nearer home.
On
it
would only
in the
ger
to.
Monterey.
and by a
that distance,
influence,
Lieut. Col.
off,
letter
to
countermand
own
his
his pre-
much
some
in these
by a willingness
by
it
time was
that
to
cognomen,) with
now approaching
of
May, when
Camanche
the
their
(if
our
companions.
were
for there
a noble spirit
The
all,
Indians
camp
made
a descent on the
men,
women
became necessary
to
it
to
It
now
prevent these
to protect
it.
Com-
no purpose.
still
The
was dangerous
3ome
for
Mexicans
it
to travel.
Volunteers happened
to
THE
NAKRA.T1VE OF
136
One
" Americanos,
their caps,
The
?"
how do do
little
off,
when
looking
after
at
Zacatecas
the
San Luis
way
to the
After riding
Poiosi.
hungry, and
Mexican
night, they
it.
after leaving a
all
forces stationed at
overhauled
and
fatigued
something
to
But
eat.
lo,
when
and behold
Mexicans and
(he
all
to the
Indians victorious.
When
the party
Some
left
with some corn in them, which was emptied out, but nothing
a couple of the
Mexican mules.
The
In-
dians must have conceived the idea that the stores belonged
to
something away.
The
came
into
set of fellows
we
camp one by
all
called,
to the
who
ran
sans
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
137
The number
we subseThey still
In fact the
lliat
Camanche
Mexican peasantry.
About
company
time
this
Col. Mears
liieut.
commenced
to recruit
This was
it
impossi-
have enlisted one man, but such was not the case.
ble to
to his roll.
The
prospects of a
speedy peace were quite promising, news having been received of the siege of Vera Cruz and the battle of Cerro Gordo.
Numbers judged
The
the
many
to join.
for offi-
roll
was
Col.
cers.
that
finally filled,
of
company B, was
elected Junior
Second Lieutenant:
were indeed
lieve,
About
us by
noi.s
They
to the different
all
We
regiments
this time,
the
two Mexican
to
17th of
officers.
number
12*
Ilfi-
NARRATIVE OF THE
138
They were
in.
camp
first,
and
ac-
have no
Rackensacks made
good look
at
them.
charge
at the
know how
sion of
which he scared
by looking
him,
off,
could of
the
noticed
conclu-
grinning like an
that
has learned,
volunteer
walked
at
him with
saluting
We
at the
to
''carrajo!''''
Afier saying
make
he
this
the best he
it.
The Mexican
The
Taylor.
commander
at
San
re-
civilized nations.
request
ted
we know
on the Mexicans
reply to
it.
induced him
to
send such a
lately, save
Perhaps the
themselves.
Luis with
What
not, for
him before
the walls of
that he would
San Luis, and so sent the
lines,
escorted
CENTRAL
The Time
for
139
DIVISION,
CHAPTER
Going Home Great
XVII,
Sufferings of Col. Doniphan's
Up
Earnest The Parting Hand
Army of Chihuahua Regiment Proceeds Twelve
Reconada Gen. AmpuMiles Our Indian Again Encamped
dia's Fortification Reach Monterey The Black Fort and Bishop's Palace Capt. Pike's Squadron Discharged Joyful News The
Bodies of Col. Yell, Capt. Porter and Private Pelham Set out and
Ceralvo Saw Massachusetts Volunteers Encamped
Arrive
Canales' Run The Town of Meir Reached Camargo on the FifRegiments Mustered Out
teenth Gen. Pillow's Fortress
of Service Arkansas Regiment Discharged Stanzas Addresses
Given by Cols. Weatherford, Bissel and Roane Paymasters Finthe
ish their Work Our Indian Remains There Encamped
Depot of Rio Grande Mexican Rope Dancers Upper Reynoso
the Mouth of the MisReach the Mouth of the River Arrive
sissippi Arrive
the Crescent City Reflections New Orleans
Dandies Appeal
the Reader The Author's Remarks Respecting
Central Division about Breaking
to
in
Gen. Wool
at
at
at
Illinois
at
at
at
to
Appeal to the
Himself
The
Public.
them
Illinois
regiments
to leave for
The
be discharged was
New
wished
little
to return
May, and
place at
Orleans.
home.
many
now learned
The Illinois
the Arkan-
which we were
men
dissatisfaction
but
we
think that a
man who
with-
NARRATIVE OF THE
140
death in
all its
Mexico
the best
way he
could.
Col.
Wool and
New
in-
Orleans,
as
we
demand
no merchants
them
the
it
We
was
most
he delivered to
affecting scene.
with light
It
them a parting
who was
seemed
present
difficult for
who had
shared
to Sal-
to part
Illinoisians,
were
supply them.
Orleans.
where
as far as Saltillo,
address.
that
New
to
all,
in time of need.
Here we
see a
now hailed
by every man of
and beloved
to
wo
to the
man who
in
man who
and used so much
man
in time of danger.
the
"Sleepy Column."
It
discipline, was
some time during
discretion and
It is
said that
told
him
mind
let
the
that the
them
"
Oh
" said
At the
battle of
Buena
Vista,
CENTRAL
such as
We
to
savi'
141
DIVISION.
him
mark
shining
all
for
Mexican
better^Generals.
name
But we
plause.
bullets.
As
for qualifications,
our
Gen. Taylor,
in his official
in the highest
terms of ap-
aa
much
motion
How
as they.
is it
at
Washington can
inform us.
We
would seem
It
that the
to the 1st
IJli-^
whose black and lustrous hair, shining like the raplumage, hung in apparent neglect around her handsome
of Saltillo,
ven's
whose
for
in beautiful
our hero
balls of the
cheros.
to resist,
ringlets,
was
too
and
much
Therefore,
when
ber, like
up
Gen. Taylor's,
that
all
was
right,
in
now brushed
all
over, to see
NARRATIVE OF THE
142
worship
his adoration,
ever leave her and the land of red peppers and pelonsellas.
On coming
jf
to the house,
he thought over
the Spanish
all
was open-
It
room of
as
might be anticipated.
he commenced
manner
ever,
to tell
was going
possible, that he
when
little
hand
the
" Co7no
name
claimed,
llama
si
este
perhaps
for-
American.^
"A
by
louse,
it
between her
fingers,
He
looked
at
she
[What
it,
is
and ex-
G d !"
Camargo with
to
en Americano?'''
of this in
vamosed without
officer
to leave her,
said:
affecting one,
He
about
to
break up
in earn"
squadron of the
1st
Dragoons, Captain
Washington's Artillery, Captain Mears' company of mounted volunteers, formed out of the Arkansas and two Illinois
Regiments, and
On
the
company
left for
Cavalry,
come
fore,
went
to his tent,
He
The
to
officers, there-
CENTRAL
DIVISION.
14S
was
ed
and
in the field,
great
On
with horses,
He went
to a
him
miles, he gave
him
his
him
Mexican
We
The
mule back
to
set out,
saw
this
subsequent
fortified
that
there, he
would
fight
doubtedly
it
Mexico.
The
by
hill,
abreast.
is
the
only
than he had
way
At
the
head of
at
Monterey,
of approaching
of
him.
his
mule.
after
The
we
fine pile."
three picayunes.
to give
the
all
owner followed,
On
Regiment proceeded
Encantada.
again.
the
Saltillo,
we
last trick
Thus
extinct.
small stream.
which remain-
to leave too.
the
left
was about
it
This
enough
it
is
for four
Ampudia had
un-
for
in
by ascending
men
a redoubt
to
ride
thrown
On
pro-
to the
Taylor's camp.
zers,
We
also visited
NARRATIVE OF THE
144
a palace occupied
more than
castle
In fact
teenth century.
We
San Antonio.
it
by
at
the city,
own
charged, by their
charged
at
two
Camargo.
Illinois
Regiments would be
to us,
it was
wished
to
go
home
who
by
those
news
to
wise good
because they would now have an opportunity.
Col.
our
for
We
tlis"
like-
land,
their
way
to the
United States
We
remained
at the
when we
we encamped at Agua
the lOth,
was about
Walnut Springs
as
warm
as
Frio,
until the
The
Camargo.
mroning of
first
evening,
it
Seeing so n:iany
worked on
We
their feelings.
men how
then started
off,
no
it
whistling "
it
in
if
he
think
it
CENTRAL
The
we encamped
next day
Run, from
the
its
This town
is
He was
Henrie.
is
was
to the
1839,
in
bri-
town of
Majors
taken with
and Bore-
Gaines'
party at
Canales'
called
land's
what
at
Our march
gand general.
Meir.
of
fafit
145
DIVISION,
made
his
escape.
The
following morning
miles to Camargo,
at
of the corps of the Central Division again, but were mistaken, for
we
arm
in
arm,
stroll-
We
far-
ideas
were good,
We
by Gen. Pillow.
that
is, if
because
it
the breast
retreating, for
work and
would be impossible
the ditch,
On
On
as
to fall
men
started off
service,
on a steamboat
for the
once between
it
it
next.
On
he intended
the troops
were discharged,
13
mouth
of the river.
was discharged.
in
1st regi-
Now,
passing through
the
NARRATIVE OF THE
146
streets
the
of
following lines,
The
delivered theirs
we were unable
to obtain
them.
obtained
it,
and
it
reads as follows
>
Camp
General Order.
in this,
command,
to
to the
During the last year we have been associated in arms, co-laborers for the honor of our beloved country, and participators in the
hardships, privations and dangers incident to a soldier's life and
;
my
my pleasure, to publish to you, and proclaim
my entire satisfaction with the manner in which
is
about expiring,
it
is
it is
whole world,
am
support from
proud
Conduct
an impression on
to create
I yield to
an
to say, I
my officers, and a
irresistible
like this
impulse, when
conduct
at
ually, to
fai'
as kind as lasting.
announce
to
you
that
your
CENTRAL
Woo!,
dier General
may
say
to
DIVISION.
you
147
"
every end for which you were called into the service
duct in the great battle of
Buena
a service to
abundant reason
be proud.
to
true
is
much
and
may
dead
less the
shafts of defamation
to
who
for all
falter,
your con-
worthy of commendation
is
Buena Vista
This
Vista
from
this polluted
wear
to
them
vilely hurled
the mantle of
is
destined
honest and
all
honorable men.
I
deem
it
my
duty
to call attention to
commanders
of companies or as subalterns.
who
country, either as
that
in the
Capt. English'
Capt. Taylor, and Lieut. Douglass had long been confined to iheir
The
afflictions of Provi-
at
particular
this
it
lamented.
The
are
Hill,
Giles,
subalterns
McAfie,
all to rejoice at
B. F. Ross.
the
at
some
of your brave
companions
in
arms, and
NARRATIVE OF THE
148
amongst
that
number
To
is
superfluous
is
we should
those
memory.
his
On
troops, and, at
wagons
train of
we
RegH Cav,
expected
for
to find
boats to ascend to
set
all
out with a
distant,
where
Camargo, having
previous days.
The
we saw of our
last
Indian was
We
he gave us
We
this."
think, should he
what
not
"great country,
his
to
prepar-
satisfaction, saying,
little
know
when he was
the
will
we
Mexicans
"skeer an
The
They came
At
more.
this place
we had an
fast
aground.
we were
together once
exhibition of
Mexican rope
They had
dancers.
first
up of brush,
in-
side of
little
now and
then.
After
by the
The
in
it
was
all
make
He
next day
we came
to
what
is
CENTRAL
ynd on the 24th we arrived
DIVISION.
149
at
that
We now
down, the
side,
we were
thought that
first
jammed
come
where we
we
the bo3's
tarried
for the
New
shipping for
we
arrived at the
we found
in
wagons
Here we took
when
of Chihuahua had
together again.
On
river,
Army
hands being a
all
vessel laden
The
little
river,
Arkansavvians
way
knew
but
to
to a
be on
to
them
about, (supposing
little
sea
where
to
"Go
Chihuahua?"
it,
Rackensacks
and arrived
we
hours,) before
tow-boat
to take
and towed us
all
them
up
at the
did,
left
New
to the
Orleans.
we reached
Such
next day
a scatterment
all
hands appeared
we never
travelled
in a
to fight
new
dress.
Here were
the
helped
their
own
flour in
battles that
hand
mills,
CENTRAL
150
every form,
in
now
DIVISION.
New
transformed into
Orleans dandies.
disputable sources.
to the
ble
hum-
him pass
But
rect.
it
finally, let
is
assured
is
cor-
mean an unmerciful
transpired that he
As
to
not
self,
who,
army by
(I
criticism,) that
is
our humble
let
in
to
those of epauletts,
till
up
(who
men
We
would say
to those into
have read
ed "
it
to
whose hands
you
will
this little
know
work may
that there
fall,
once upon
of Chihuahua."
after
you
a time exist-
APPENDIX.
NAKRATIVE,
WHICH TRANSPIRED DURING THE TIME THE
AUTHOR WAS LEFT IN THE HANDS OF THE MEXICANS.
OF MATTERS
The
where
to Patos,
After
not be removed.
it
evinced a willingness
him.
to attend
calling.
in the hospital
in a
who
could
very short
some person
behind, with
was
was a man
This rendered
time.
almost instantaneously.
to leave
seemed
to
This, however,
to enter
a strange land,
and
far
to stay,
him
on one condition.
that if he
care of me,
would go
went
to the
to the priest
He
would remain.
immediately proceeded, as
said he
would do
to take
so,
and
told
me
all
was
right.
The
sick
man
being also
German, I deemed
APPENDIX.
152
My
my
handed
note book to
custom heretofore.
then
If there
anything omitted
is
our
in
my
to
mem-
orandum, between the 11th of January and the 9th of February, this
will
account for
The regiment
it.
left
about
some
time,
daylight.
My
we were
this I
for
perfect charge,
knew would
my
bosom,
determined that
them before
In this manner
my way
went
to see his
if
nor
He
indeed
reminded
it
However,
pleasant predicament.
he
my
did, the
very
could, in an
wish-
A.s
came
word of English,
things went,
was
in
an un-
purpose.
beckoned him
to follow
me, which
When we
much
Wool.
General
to
answered
On
me of
pis-
which
my
attitude
was
Finally, 1
that I
tols in
be folly, con-
in their
aware
German com-
excited.
A crowd
my German
friend
him, and there he was, with his sabre buckled on, and a pis" Dunner
tol in each hand, using the following language :
wetter
himmel sackerment
spitsbooben,
me
Hole
me
der
tifel,
die verdamte
off, if
you does
APPENDIX
153
These
not back oui from dis blace, anddat devilish soon !"
The
to
us, as
who had
it,
and an immediate
effected.
The
he gave
not a
ing
to
in.
to
a hearty laugh.
was
gestures,
antic
ary was
of the
upon
many
a great
to
by
how my
be attended
wait,
word
me back
to,
was
to his
own
house, where
This pleased
to stay.
German and
the sick
any questions,
man were
There was no
concluded
German
was
German
a pistol in each
bowls of atole
re-
friend
to
My
me
friend the
stood a
took
understand
little, for,
but
me
how-
flying around
to
some of
cities,
the
not with
bill
of
fare.
I
had
much
now
fortunate changes.
It
collected
cause of
seems the
when he
all
priest
154
sick
APPENDIY.
man was
a Catholic,
same
the
to
same time
much
From
besser as de
this time
to
men."
Mexicans appeared quite
on, the
of
full
boarded
reverend gentleman's
at the
German always
women
by the
The
which
priest
I
commenced
man.
teaching
The
me
I
speak Spanish,
soon began
man,
sick
to
at
habelar
to
from the nature of his disease, and conneclinor and surrounding circumstances, died in a few days, and
church yard.
Having
lived
of war.
no more
we
to
in the
in the ser-
designate his
wake him
at the last
day.
to travel
on
was
a forced
was buried
man
The
die,
march, was
left
this
My
German
friend
begged
"
You
besser
monish ve
vill
sell
den put
in
our
own
vill
fetch,
and dat
APPENDIX.
de camp."
to
saw
55
at
ing truth of the old man's words, and shortly after the invaldeath, sold the horse to a
id's
The moment
tion,
for
My
gine that
a bad
now
fix.
felt
money
the
me, and
concluded
With
it
related to
him
the
all
it
money,
go
to
I
to
de camp, quicker
him
to the priest.
Dat ve
view
for as I
Dunner wetter
this
vill
and ve
went
money
about
had worked
we had better
What !" said he,
that
"
The
gelt ish
good
as Dr.
to
not do.
vill
man
gelt
ima-
if I
Give him de
may
readers
the
than
dollars.
was informed of the transache became enraged, and went on at a tremendous rate,
his reverence
!"
promised
when
it
very
to
through
to pass
was uncertain
we were
not listen
locked
the
going
to
German
him that
He would
told
American camp.
house of
in the
and
my
and that
to the priest,
now
a sort of
considered
my case
almost hopeless,
might remain
APPENDIX.
156
He became more
endeavored
to
About
this
me
to give
me
everything
time
offered to take
me
to
him and
in three
tering the
that,
knew
months,
Mexican
I,
"I do
time of need."
my
being
we got
his aid
for
as to en-
own
serve
my
service,
country
in
painter
left,
to
come
would think of
He
me a
if
versation.
would
"because," said
My
if I
me
wished,
told
to stay.
of the Mexican
He
persuade
who
came
there
how
to
With
About
This created
priest
I
a rejoicing time
among
having worn
my
uniform
Encarnacion.
change
He
now.
until
at
my
costume,
assigned as his
reason for this notion, his fear that the Mexican soldiers
miglit kill
costume.
robe,
myself
good
fit.
After introducing
religious exercises.
An
my
APPENDIX.
have led
consequences.
serious
to
157
with
left
me by
my
saddle-bags.
declared
all I
was
a physician.
protested against
my
They knew
better
In a few days
it
appeared as
to,
it
and said
if
consequence of which
had
repugnance
some-
vailing in town, in
noticed these
more
especially
when
the
to feel
had no great
on by the
called
pre-
ladies.
dosed out the flaxseed and bark with the gravity of a regu-
quack doctor.
lar built
other times
examine
Sometimes
a patient with as
at
much
I told
"
Den
vould gif
this,
in
dem
as
a dose,
One day
my
I
felt
py shure."
was
recommended
him
knowing
that
wishing
bleeding.
to
in
vant girl to a
enough,
avoid administering
leelle
my
lance,
fair
was now
in a
dilernma and
pa-
knew
a ser-
Sure
hastened to m.y
be
bad scrape.
to
agree with
tient's
I did not
perfectly harmless.
powders,
Having
my German man
14
APPENI)IX.
l5d
concluded
perform venesection,
to
my own
how
veins to see
best
I
manner
to
my joy when
tained.
The obnoxious
ao-ain to
be resorted
They were
last
quickly examined
possibly could.
was informed
my
At
or miss.
hit
in
to.
me
to
go
to
me
fandangoes, and
to
one.
agreed, and on
new
play
wards
to
and they
me, but
had
generally accompany
it
around
da'^.cing
This was
to take
was
it.
After-
At funerals they
a custom.
muskets.
I
now
my
number of our
retreat to
began
feelings
Monterey, so that
to
would be
still
away from
my doom would
farther
But
was
my
fears, for
on the morn-
to
The
proved
who were
to
Regiment
sent out for corn, and the Colonel had sent Lieut.
Giles, of the
company
to
which
along,) to
go
to
The
APPENDIX.
wanted
priest
in,
and
told
tell
him
go
me
He
to the
then said he
him
again told
officers
take
to
that
better.
me
159
him
in
it
me
my
stead.
whom
affairs,)
my
met him.
To
was
free.
At
fetch mich
last I
must say,
der
me
felt
that I
extacies,
in his
shaking his
way, saying,
tifei, if I
my
beUer than
On
Dun-
had expected
forces,
as
they
but no one
as every ling."
bade farewell to
treated
now
perfect
now,
for I
arrived
expected he
do.
Mexicans
again to cast
APPENDIX.
00
DESPATCHES
OF
Headqtjartees,
March
Mexic
4,
1847
-S
that place.
In the course of the evening, agreeably to the instructions of the
commanding general, transmitted from Saltillo, Col. Marshall, with
his regiment and the Lst dragoons were ordered to Agua Nueva to
reinforce Col. Yell, who was directed, in case he should be attacked, to destroy
everything
section of ariiliery,
was
M.
APPENDIX.
61
the whole to fall back to Buena Vista, should the enemy pursue
them to that place. Before leaving Agua Nueva, Col. Yell's pickets were driven in by the advanced parties of the Mexicans.
He
The
six companies of the 1st Illinois Regiment, comCol. Hardin, took post on the eminence on the left
and
two companies under Lieut. Col. Weatherford, occupied the breastwork on the right of Washington's battery. The 2d Illinois Regiment was stationed on the left of the Kentucky Regiment. The
Indiana Brigade, commanded by Brig. Gen. Lane, was posted on a
ridge immediately in rear of the front line, and Captain Stein's
squadron in reserve, in rear of the Indiana Brigade. The Kentucky
Regiment of Cavalry, under the command of Co!. Marshall, and
the Arkansas Regiment, under the command of Col. Yell, were
stationed to the left of the second line towards the mountains.
Shortly afterwards the rifle companies of these two regiments were
dismounted, and with the cavalry companies of the Kentucky Regiment, and a battalion of riflemen from the Indiana Brigade, under
Major Gorman, under command of Col. Marshall, were ordered to
take post on the extreme lefi, and at the foot of the mountains.
These dispositions were appr ved by ihe major general com-
battery.
manded by
manding, who had now returned from Saitillo, bringing with him
May's squadron of the 2d dragoons, Captains Sherman's
Lieut. Col.
14*
APPENDIX.
162
and Bragg's
Regiment of
Riflemen.
The enemy had halted just beyond cannon shot, and displayed
his forces on either side of the road, and commenced pushing his
At the same time
light infantry into the mountains on our lefr.
indications of an attempt on our right induced the Commanding
General to order the 2d Kentucky Infantry and Capt. Bragg's
Battery, with a detachment of mounted men, to take post on the
and
Washington's Battery,
at
some distance
in the centre.
in advance of Capt.
Capt. Sherman's Battery was
line.
The enemy was now seen pushing his infantry on his right toward the heights, showing evidently an intention to turn our left,
the eminence
in order to get possession of the key to our position
immediately on the left of Washington's artillery and thus open
a free passage to Saltillo.
Col. Marshall, with his regiment, the Arkansas Riflemen, under
Lieut. Col. Roane, and the Indiana Rifle Batallion, under Major
Gorman, was charged with meeting this party, and checking their
movement on our left. Brigadier Gen. Lane, with the 2d Indiana
Regiment and a section of Capt. Washington's artillery, under
Lieut. O'Brien (since Captain in the Quartermaster's Department,)
was ordered to the extreme left and front of the plain, which was
terminated by a deep ravine, extending from the mountain to the
road, with orders to prevent the enemy from coming around by the
Major
Prail,
2d
Illinois
enemy
check.
in
APPENDIX.
163
The enemy now opened a fire upon our left, from a battery planted
on the side of the mountain, near where his light infaniry had commenced ascending it everything now indicating tnat the main at-
164
APPENDIX.
the other side of the dry bed of a deep and broad torrent ihal is
immediately in rear of our position. Here many fled in disorder
Some of them were subsequently rallied and brought
to the rear.
again into action, with their brave companions ; others were stopped
at the hacienda of Buena Vista, and there re-formed by their officers.
The enemy immediately brought forward a battery of three
pieces, and took a position on the extreme left of our line, under
the mountain, and commenced an enfilading fire on our centre,
which was returned with so much effect upon the advancing column
of the Mexicans, containing near 6,000 infantry and lancers, that
it forced them to keep to the upper side of the plateau, close under
the side of the mountain; and, instead of turning to the left, and
advancing on our centre, against the heavy fire of so much well
served artillery, continued its course perpendicular to our line on
the extreme left, crossed over the bed of the dry torrent, in the
direction taken by our retreating riflemen, keeping all the while
close to the foot of the mountain.
Colonels Marshall and Yell,
with their cavalry companies. Col. May, with the squadron of the
1st and 2d dragoons, and Capt. Pike's squadron, Arkansas Cavalry,
in connection with a brigade of infantry, formed of the Mississippi
Regiment, the 3d Indiana, under Col. Lane, and a fragment of the
2d Indiana Regiment, under Col. Bowles, and Bragg's battery, and
three pieces of Sherman's battery, succeeded in checking the
march of this column. The Mississippi Regiment alone, and with
a howitzer under Capt. Sherman, moved against some 4,000 of the
enemy, and stopped them in their march upon Saltillo. A large
body of lancers, from this body, formed column in one of the
mountain gorges, and advanced, through the Mexican infantry, to
make a descent on the hacienda of Buena Vista, near which our
train of supplies and baggage had been packed.
They were
gallantly and successfully met by our mounted men, under Colonels
Marshall and Yell, and the attacking column separated, part returning to the mountain, under cover of their infantry, and a part
through the hacienda. Here the latter were met by a destructive
fire from those men who had left the field in the early part of the
action, and had been rallied by their officers.
Col. May's dragoons,
and a section of artillery, under Lieut. Reynolds, coming up at this
moment, completed the route of this portion of the enemy's cavalry.
The column which had passed our left, and had gone some two
miles to our rear, now faced about, and commenced retracing their
steps, exposing their right flank to a very heavy and destructive
fire from our infantry and artillery, who were drawn up in a line
parallel to the march of the retreating column, of whom many
were forced on and over the mountains, and many dispersed.
Gen. Santa Anna, seeing the situation of this part of his army,
and, no doubt, considering them as cut off", sent in a flag to the
Major General commanding, to know what he desired. The General
asked me to be the bearer of his answer, to which I cheerfully
assented, and proceeded immediately to ihe enemy's battery, under
APPENDIX.
165
The troops lay on their arms in the position in which they were
Major Warren's command, of four companies
placed at evening.
of Illinois infantry, and a detachment of Capt. Webster's company,
under Lieut. Donaldson, were brought on the field from Sallillo,
where they had performed, during the day, important services in
connexion with Capt. WVb'^ter's battery, under a piece ably served
by Lieut, (now Captain) Shover, 3d Artillery, in repelling the attack urider Gen. Minon and his Cavalry on that place.
166
APPENDIX.
Every arrangement was made to engage the enemy early the next
morning, when, at day-break, it was discovered he had retreaied
under cotter of the night, leaving about 1,000 dead and several
hundredf^Vounded on the fieid of battle, and 294 prisoners in our
hands^'^ne standard and a. large number of arms.
'i\e forces engaged in the great battle of the 22d and 23d ultimo,
"':
were as follows:
The United States Troops, commanded by Major Gen. Taylor,
amounted
The
to 3,000.
The enemy
w> u.
represented
to
Your
obedient servant.
E. WOOL, Brig. Gen.
JOHN
To Major W. W.
<
>
Gen.
>
Wool
On
when
we
vyere first
poMtion as long as