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Boyle, Charles A. (d.1864)
New Haven, CT, and Bernardston, MA
Fifteenth Connecticut Infantry, Company E / Sergeant
1862 August 12-1864 September 17
42 Items
Letters from New Haven, CT, Suffolk, VA, and New Bern, NC, to his parents and sisters, Grace W. and Annie K., in Bernardston, MA. Collection also includes two hand-drawn maps of North Carolina locations and two newspaper clippings concerning the 15th Connecticut Infantry, one dated 28 September 1863 from South Mills, NC and one dated 24 October 1863 from Portsmouth, VA. Boyle enlisted 12 August 1862 and was mustered-in a Private on 25 August 1862. He was promoted to Sergeant on 1 February 1864 and died atNew Bern, NC, on October 1864, during a yellow fever epidemic. Boyle's letters provide extraordinary detail in regard to military units, actions, movements, and events. He speaks frequently about the interaction between officers and their men and relates several incidents involving African Americans.
Location: MS Civil War Box 1
Content Analysis
Letter Excerpts, 1862-1863
Letter, 4 November 1863
Letter, 25 December 1863
Letter, 17 January 1864
Letter Excerpts, 1864
Some Sketches and maps by Charles Boyle
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 |
Content Analysis
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
Letters: 1862, Aug. 12, 18, 27; September 3, 7; November 16; 1863 January 11, 26; February 9; March 17; April 12, 18, 20, 21; May 2, 3, 5, 15, 26; June 19; July 27; September 6; October 26, 31; November 4, 9; December 18, 25; 1864 January 17; February 5, 9; March 21, 29; April 7, 29; May 21 (with map); June 5, 26 (with sketch); July 19; August 30, September 17 (final letter before his death on 10 October 1864).
Letter Excerpts, 1862-1863
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
Letter begun 27 August 1862 Boyle reports hearing artillery firing from the battle of 2nd Bull Run as the 15th Connecticut entered their encampments on Arlington Heights.
The 15th was initially assigned to the 1st Brigade of Casey's Division, 9th Corps.
Boyle takes great delight in over-using the expression "little old" (i.e. little old rations, little old fire, little old tea, little old pork, little old stick) in his letter of 16 November 1862.
Letter, 11 January 1863, from camp opposite Fredericksburg, Boyle writes of the troops being reviewed by Generals Burnside and Sumner. He gives good descriptions of the difficulties of procuring and preparing food. Notes "talk about mutiny."
In March of 1863 the 15th Connecticut formed a part of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, 9th Army Corps.
Letter of 18 April 1863 from Suffolk, VA: "I saw the body of the woman who was shot by the rebels brought into town on a cart. Her husband is a discharged rebel soldier, but they did not seem well pleased to have their friends come inside our lines, so they took her life."
Letter of 5 May 1863 from Suffolk, VA: "Our surgeon, Dr. Holcomb, who has
the reputation of being a stranger to fear, made three attempts to come across
the field where we did, and got a minie each time, besides a shower of lead
all around him. He was not hurt. A ball went through his hat, one went through
his coat, and one hit his boot heel, and he gave it up." The Library of The
Connecticut Historical Society has the medical records of Surgeon H. V. C.
Holcomb (MS 92085).
Letter of 19 June 1863 from Suffolk, VA, regarding lice: "Have I told you that we found an enemy in these old quarters? Well, we did, after a time, discover a silent, implacable, indefatigable, irritating foe - an agressive, parasitical, plundering, and constantly increasing invader. We discovered that they were preying upon our richest treasure - our very life blood. Their host was innumerable, and every individual was protected by an armor which was proof against common defensive agencies. Officers and privates were made to suffer without distinction. We gave them determined battle however, and by dint of hot pursuit and merciless massacre we have succeeded in freeing ourselves of most of the filthy - 'body lice.' With the nails of our thumbs did we conquer and crush them out."
The 15th Connecticut formed a part of Harland's Brigade, 18th Corps in November 1863.
Letter, 4 November,1863
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
Dear Home: --
The even tenor of military life in this department has promise of being disturbed
by the arrival of a new commander and consequent change of plans & policy.
The 18th Army Corps will give Gen Butler a hearty welcome no doubt. It is
not known how soon Gen B. will be among us; but with his coming all expect
a movement in some direction. Whether it is to be a determined attempt at
rooting out Guerillas [sic] in North Carolina or another march toward Richmond
is a question on which none presume to give an opinion as yet. Appearances
indicate, however that the Peninsular [sic] is to be the scene of new
movements.
This morning the 3d Reg't NY Cav. -- Col Mix; Battery -F- 1st R. I. Artillery;
Battery H. 3d NY Artillery; and two Cavalry howitzers, went past our camp,
en-route for Norfolk; -- having left Elizabeth City last Saturday night.
They all came from Newberne to Elizabeth C. and the cavalry stayed in and
about Elizabeth 4 days. They had with them 30 very good horses which they
had "confiscated" in the country through which they passed. Their rear was
fired upon by guerillas [sic] at South Mills, which place has been vacated
by our cavalry. I did not learn whether any one was killed or wounded by
the guerillas [sic]. On the 2d our brigade received marching orders, with
10 days rations; but the order was countermanded before night. Gen Getty
has issued an order for 5 hours of drill each day: -- 3 hours a.m. &
2 hours p.m. Some of the boys think it hard work; but it is certainly easy
compared to marching up and down the long Peninsular [sic] which we are soon
likely to be doing. If a soldier has good health, and a cheerful spirit it
makes but little difference what he is doing. Health I have been remarkably
blessed with, and a spirit of cheerfulness I have tried to cultivate, as
the easiest way of keeping myself up to the necessary point of endurance.
Since our last summers march, we have had little or nothing of "hardship"
to endure; and, as the saying goes, a man who finds fault with our condition
and our duty since that time "would find fault with hanging." Speaking of
hanging reminds me of a report in camp, to the effect that we are to go to
Norfolk on Friday, to attend the execution of two deserting substitutes of
the 8th C. V. When Gen B. makes his appearance we shall probably have a grand
review before doing anything of more importance.
The weather here for the past 7 weeks has been mild and pleasant as the heart
of man could wish; and now it is splendid. The morning air is cool and bracing;
and though the heat at midday is too great for violent exercise in the drill,
it is just the temperature in which to sit down for a quiet hour of reading
or writing. The nights are cool enough for good sleeping in quarters; and
as yet not intolerable to pickets & guards. But very little rain has
fallen during the past 8 weeks.
4 p.m. -- Have just come in from drilling in skirmish -- Wednesday and Friday
afternoons of each week being the time designated for that drill. In future
letters to me may be directed: -- "E., 15th &c Harland's Brigade, 18th
A. C., Portsmouth, Va. I received a letter from Grace and the Repub of Oct
31st Why was not the money which is asked for sent? We are expecting pay
very soon and shall be paid, no doubt, before we start upon any expedition.
Some one inquires about writing paper: -- I can get plenty of paper at our
Sutlers; and though we have to pay higher than New England prices, it would
not pay to have a large quantity sent from home; for so long as we can buy
it here in small quantities it saves lugging and care which a larger quantity
would require.
Oct 5th: -- Our respected (?) 1st Lieut. [George C. Merriam] left us on the
parade ground this morning to take his departure for Conn. on furlough. Long
may he wav--Stay! Lieut Bissell is capable of more than filling the place
of half a dozen clever fellows like our "1st." If we had never been under
command of Capt W. we would, perhaps not be quite so difficult to please.
Capt. W. taught us admiration of seeing military orders and movements given
and executed with a spang!, and Nancy is exactly calculated to show us how
much we loose [sic] by Cap's. absence.
Lieut Bissell is a very strict and dignified officer when circumstances require.
When he was Serg't. Maj. of the reg't all the boys thought he was the very
impersonation of military rigidity. All gave "attention" when he said the
word. But he can come down from that awful dignity, and make the meanest
soldier in the ranks easy in conversation with himself; and our company are
always much pleased to see him come into our street in his long calico dressing
gown & slippers. He is ready then to talk on any subject, from bean soup
to governmental policy. A week or two since, just at evening, half a dozen
soldiers were leaning over the stockade in front of my tent discussing some
matter interesting to ourselves; -- Among the crowd outside was Corp L. --
a jocose little soldier who is always ready for sport. Being very intently
engaged in the conversation he did not notice the approach of Lieut B., who
came up behind and rested his heavy weight, (195 lbs) upon John's shoulder.
John winced under the "pressure," and squirmed uneasily about, saying: --
"God All Mighty!" "Dont!" "Why, John!" "What is the matter?" said Lieut.
John knew the voice, of course, and instantly said: -- "Oh, its you!" ["]I
thought it was some 'cussed private' and was about to resent such familiarity!"
The boys shouted, splitting their sides, almost, with laughter, while Lieut
B retired from the scene as fast as was compatible with his official
dignity.
Our first Lieut, --M., has a habit of saying "golly," and "darn it:" Corp
L, whenever the occasion permits, extends his sympathy to this respected
officer in his troubles; and winking to the boys, condoles with him, bringing
into the conversation that officers favorite expressions of displeasure,
-- "golly" and "darn it," so frequently and in such a mischeivous [sic] way
that the bystanders must laugh outright, or, not caring to expose the trick,
slink away behind a tent and hold their mirthfulness in check until the game
is over.
Generally, however the boys show much more respect for the officer than they
feel; and I doubt if he has ever suspected that he has not all the respect
and esteem which can be claimed for his rank; and that is quite as it should
be. Capt W. and Lieut Bissell are very much alike in these respects; both
knowing their duty and their ability to do it.
We are to have no drill this pm; and are to prepare for inspection of all
our effects -- arms, accoutrements, knapsacks, haversacks canteens, clothing
&c.
Later -- Company E. has attended inspection in white gloves and their "proud"
clothes. At retreat volunteers to the numbers of 20 from the reg't -- 2 from
each Co -- were called for to act as the firing party for the execution
to-morrow.
An officer from the medical department has inspected our quarters to-day.
He was very much displeased to see that some of our bunks were less than
18 inches from the ground. Mine is raised 20 inches. Dr Holcomb attempted
to account for the incompleteness of our "domestic" arrangements, by stating
to him that we had been constantly employed with military duties, since our
return to the reg't. But the medical gentleman was very impatient, and uttered
a whole torrent of "18 inches!" Next time he comes he does not want to "find
a word of fault;" and I think that we can satisfy the M. S. that the 15th
Conn Vols are capable of housekeeping. Right smart, I reckon! We have learned
a great deal in the art of making ourselves comfortable under adverse
circumstances. You would be surprised to see the easy little domiciles which
we often prepare in half a day, for the accommodation of half a dozen weary
bodies, -- put up, too, when we had already exhausted ourselves with weary
days of marching and scanty time for rest and sleep.
When the 15th was at Falmouth last winter the trade was new to us, and our
attempts at house-building with very limited means, often ended in miserable
failures or the production of some very original and altogether picturesque
specimens of architecture. We then had only a scattering of pine boughs between
our chilled bodies and the frosty earth; and the medical gentlemen issued
no peremptory orders for the erection of comfortable houses and airy bunks;
but now that we have learned the trade and are quite able and willing --
even though other duties require almost constant attention -- to take care
of ourselves, they are very solicitous for our comfort. We do not speak of
this in a grumbling or discontented spirit; but only for the satisfaction
of airing the facts. We have learned to appreciate the blessings of comfortable
quarters; and I believe that we have as much real enjoyment in our rude huts
as can be found in the costliest places of this whole earth. That is saying
a great deal, but it is true in the case of at least half of us soldiers.
and it will of course appear reasonable that it should be so, when you consider
the privations which we have been often called to suffer.
"A soldier's life" is not, perhaps, "always gay," as the song has it; but
I may say, that he is a poor soldier who will not be contented and happy
when he can. Sickness, hunger & cold are not pleasant companions; and
while they are present we must endure -- with or without murmuring, according
to habit; but in their absence no one but self is to blame if we are not,
at least, content. You may conclude that I am in an uncommonly good humor
just now; and perhaps I am, but I think you will agree with me that the foregoing
is proper philosophy for a soldier. Grumble we must, sometimes: -- and who
is there that don't require to let off a little growl occasionally?
Oct 7th: -- On guard to-day, as orderly. Have had a pleasant 24 hours' duty.
Read "The Story of 'The Guard'" by Mrs Jessie B. Fremont. She claims to have
written and published it for the charitable purpose of raising a relief fund
for the widows, orphans and mothers of the "Guard" who were killed or wounded
in this daring charge at Springfield; made against 2000 rebels -- their number
being only 150. &c &c; but on reading the book it seems that she
had another aim, which is not openly avowed; -- is to defend the course of
Gen. F. while he was in command of the "Department of the West." She succeeds
to a charm in both of her objects. The book is very interesting; and I hope
you will read it. I often think a great part of the history of this war will
not be recorded for the reading of the people. Every day events are transpiring
throughout the length and breadth of rebeldom, and in the borders round about,
by which thousands of helpless people are made to suffer woeful wrongs, injuries,
insults, and even death; and which events are looked upon as trivial and
unworthy of notice among the more grand events which fill the minds of the
whole world in these days of "turning and overturning." "Oceans of ink" tons
of pens, and an infinite surface of paper will be made use of in giving to
the world the history of this rebellion, and the war for its suppression;
and not half the truth will have been told. Indeed it will be hardly known,
except to the sufferers, and the brutal actors in the disgraceful and cruel
scenes. Our government, our people, the army and its officers feel their
hearts swell with pride and enthusiasm as the noble work of establishing
freedom, and cutting through the obstacles to victory and Union proceeds.
Who does not feel that a noble work is going on in the liberation of thousands
of Slaves? And no doubt you and thousands of others imagine that a slave
has only to escape to the protection of the Stars and stripes to be forever
free from oppression and wrong. A great many do no doubt find a quiet haven
where by industry and frugality (such as I have seen none but negroes practice)
they life [sic] happily and comfortably.
I saw something of what life on the border is to white men -- both the loyal
and disloyal; and I may say that neither are to be envied. I have seen how
the border people are harrassed [sic] and oppressed by the armies of North
and south; each in their turn; and I know that there are thousands of whites
as deserving of sympathy as the negroes. These whites are the victims of
that "cursed institution," which has degraded them to a condition a little
lower than slaves. But perhaps they do not suffer more than their blame for
this state of things entitles them to. God has given them minds as capable
of cultivation no less than He has us; and perhaps there is no excuse for
their ignorance of the laws of Right and Wrong.
But to leave them, we know well enough where the responsibility for the Negroe's
[sic] condition lies; and I know that they suffer such wrongs from the hands
of their pretended benefactors, as would sicken your hearts to see. There
are many negroes employed by Government at this post, and though I pay but
little heed to them or their business, I know something of their manner of
living and their treatment. There is a camp of about 200 in the pine wood
at the rear of our camp -- a few hundred yards distant. The camp and the
working men are under the immediate charge of two or three Sargeants [sic]
from the 1st brigade. They are not the swiftest workmen I have seen, by any
means; but their work is done in a superior manner as regards thoroughness
and finish.
The forts and breastworks which they put up are perfect models of their kind.
Every angle being cut to the most perfect accuracy; and the graceful curves
of the sides of the embrasures are really beautiful. They are very quiet
and obedient as well as industrious. In the morning, long before daylight,
the wood near their camp resounds with the blows of their beetles upon the
pine logs from which they are splitting out "Shakes" to sell to our men and
officers, and for their own use. I have seen the light of their bonfires
(by which they work) as early as two, a.m., their labors having been kept
up to a late hour on the previous night. And these are the "lazy shiftless
niggers," who "will not work" and who "are incapable of taking care of
themselves." The women are not less industrious than the men. They come several
miles to our camp for our clothes to wash, which they generally do in a neat
manner, for five cents apiece. They are very particular to return each piece
to its owner; and if they do not find the owner of a garment in camp, or
some one whom they are sure can be trusted with it they carry it home and
keep it till they come again; or until the owner calls for it. Fewer clothes
are lost by them than by thievish comrades. Since our return from South Mills,
Deep Creek, 4 miles distant is the outpost of this end of our entrenched
line. At Deep Creek there are about 75 negroes, mostly women, children &
decrepit men.
Several days ago a nasty secesh made complaint, to the officer in command
at that post, that the negroes had stolen something from him, (I don't know
what) and the officers consulted Gen Harland, when he came around as general
officer-of-the-day. The result was the negroes were ordered to pack up and
take themselves and their effects off to the contraband camp, inside our
lines.
They went past our camp on Friday morning, with everything which they could
carry on carts, on their shoulders & in their hands. They went up towards
Portsmouth, and were reported to Gen Getty, who ordered them to return
immediately to Deep Creek, as they had been ordered to move from their without
his knowledge or consent. They got back to the Creek at dark, to find all
the furniture of their houses, either carried off or wantonly destroyed by
our cavalry and infantry pickets. (The 15th were on picket there at the time
and one of the men of our Co told me what I know of the shameful affair)
Had the time been mid-winter, the case would not have been different, as
no one is responsible, of course; and the negroes have no friends to redress
their wrongs. I should think sometimes that men were always and wholly inhuman
and barbarous; but we have many men, as officers, and in the ranks, whose
noble hearts are truly shocked by such acts as these, -- men who would share
with a needy negro, as soon as with me, their last morsel of food; and who
would as soon cut of[f] their right hand as to insult or in any way do wrong
by a negro. These men are the patriots of our army, who say along with Uncle
Abe, "hold fast, and see the glory of God!" Of another class of men I need
not speak. You all know to what extremes ignorance and unrestrained brutality
will carry beings made in the semblance of man! The Government does not intend
that these poor people should suffer any unnecessary cruelty, of course:
-- on the contrary the "policy" is to treat them well and kindly wherever
they come to us for protection; but it is the tools with which the government
works, that are to blame for these things in a great measure. Some of it
however may be laid to the inefficiency of the government itself. The old
and true saying -- that "No man is so good as his principles," may be applied
to governments as well as to individuals. So we must all suffer together,
until peace shall again reign over a happy land.
Oct 8th: -- The arrangements for shooting the deserters was made, the men
were brought to brigade h'd q'rs, and the firing-party were practicing on
the parade ground, preparatory to the execution of the condemned men, when
an order came for their respite until tomorrow. The call beat for our regiment
to fall in, but the order was countermanded after we had got on our equipments
and gloves. This respite was obtained through the exertions of our Chaplain
-- H D Miller, and a Rev Mr Plunkett. One of the deserters has a great deal
of sympathy from many of those who know the merits of the case, (which I
do not know) and our chaplain is working to get his sentence revoked. A private
of our reg't was arrested yesterday on charge of being implicated in their
affair. This man was on picket -- sentinel at the bridge accross [sic] the
creek at Bower's Hill; and he is said to have accepted a sum of money for
letting them cross the bridge, or for telling them where they might ford
the stream. The penalty of which crime is death, or such other punishment
as a court-martial shall see fit to pronounce. The man was sent to Norfolk
to be recognized by the condemned men, and to be held in jail until his case
can be looked into. If he is guilty of the charges made against him he ought
certainly to be shot, even if the deserters are not.
Mail has arrived, and with it Ada's letter with the stamps & money all
right. We are digging a well to-day, in spite of the command to "remember
the Sabbath day, &c." A great deal of work is laid out and done on this
day by the army, which might as well be done on any other day. I have got
on my old blouse for the work, but have been playing "shirk" all the
morning.
I cannot complain of your letters from home since you are so kind as to write
so often and regularly; but you will pardon me for saying, that you seem
to find but little to write about.
I have been writing away at a rate which is a caution to letter-paper and
stamps. I think it would be best to wait till next time before starting another
sheet, -- particularly, as this is the last I have; and the sutler does not
trade to-day.
I think Gen Butler arrived at the Fortress this morning, as he has been expected;
and I heard a general's salute this morning in that direction.
We are very well, -- P & I, as are most of the men in the regiment.
Love to all
Chas A. Boyle
Letter, 25 December,1863
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
Portsmouth, Va., Dec 25th/63.
Dear Home: --
Christmas day finds me on duty as corporal of the guard. I came in from a
four day's tour of picketing yesterday; and had the great felicity to be
informed that I was to be ready to go on guard this morning. Furthermore,
to "act as corporal until further orders." To-day I have been with my guard
to Hodge's Spring.
Our comfort, while on picket at Bower's Hill, (there is not a hill within
50 miles of here) has been greatly enhanced by the erection of log huts with
bunks and fireplaces. I was at the "support," or head-quarters; and in the
capacity of Corp. had to read passes, permits, and to search the "Ke-yarts"
for contraband goods. Any person, black or white, going to Norfolk from outside
our lines must have a permit, signed by the provost ("provo") marshall [sic].
This permit states what articles the applicant wishes to purchase; and if,
on examining the document and the load anything is found which is not accounted
for in the permit, said article, or articles, are confiscated by the officer
in command of the line. But few attempt to run our blockade, I think, as
every cart is searched at three different points upon the road before they
can get clear of our pickets. A great many come a distance of 20 miles to
make a few small purchases. Most of the applications are for small amounts
of the necessaries of life --viz-- 20 lbs flour, 60 lbs meal, 20 lbs bacon,
2 lbs sugar, 1 lb coffee, 2 quarts apples, 1 lb tobacco, 1 gal molasses,
3 yds cloth, or calico, &c &c.
One pretty young lady, Miss Sallie Emerson, of Suffolk, had calico and trimmings
for a dress entire, and a hoop skirt, which in the application, (written
by herself, doubtless) was spelled "hopcurt." I was wondering what to make
of the words, when Sallie came to my relief by holding up the parcel containing
the article, and saying; -- "here is is [sic] the skirt; and I am sitting
on the calico." She being a young lady who was not inclined to rise from
her seat in a snug corner of her "Ke-yart," -- I -- a modest young man --
did not of course, attempt to examine Sallie's bundle of calico &
"trimmings."
Another smart Virginia young lady came along just before sundown, on one
of the coldest days we have had here; and on complaining of being cold one
of the gallants, of "Your Uncles'" politely invited her to come into our
hut and warm herself before the fire in our broad fire-place. She was well
pleased to avail herself of the invitation; and accordingly sailed in among
us, making no small display of "store close." Taken altogether she was very
well and neatly dressed, "well spoken" and very pretty; but the climax was
capped when she pulled out from her pocket a clay pipe, with reed stem, &
asked the boys if they could give her tobacco to fill it! Of course; and
when it was filled she bent down toward the fiercely hot fire, shading her
face with her hand, and dipped up the ashes and coals to light it. Then putting
the stem between her pretty lips and drew away in a manner which would not
have been discreditable to a "Paddy O'Rourke["]! The result was one or two
puffs of smoke, which curled and danced coquettishly about the brim of her
jaunty little hat. But her pipe was not yet lighted, and she gave vent to
her vexation thereat by exclaiming: -- "Christ!" Again the provoking pipe
was raked through the hot coals and ashes; this time with more success. The
pipe was lighted; and her satisfaction was expressed in a sweet smile,
accompanied with voluminous puffs of smoke from her "insence [sic] offering"
This picture to be appreciated should be seen.
Another picture might have been seen at our post, on the same day, which
leaves altogether a different impression. Two black women came out from
Portsmouth with a pass to go 5 miles beyond our lines to get three children,
-- sisters of the youngest woman, who had been at P. ever since our troops
first occupied the place. She was at that time in town for the purpose of
trading for her masters; and was not allowed to go again out side the
lines.
But she had not forgotten her little slave sisters; and now that Gen Butler
is here she easily procured a pass, and an order for a guard to accompany
her. Two of the pickets volunteered to go, and guaranteed that they would
bring in the children; while the order was for a guard of six men. The[y]
were gone from 10 a.m. until nearly dark; when the party appeared, bringing
the emancipated little blacks with them. The motherly sister was so grateful
to the guard that she could not cease in asking the "Good Lord to bless dem."
The "proprietor" of these little chattels was mightily wroth when the purpose
of the visit was made known to him; and his old vixen of a wife opened upon
the Yanks and the negress with a tirade of abuse which was more forcible
and vehement than womanly and delicate. Of the sister who had come to the
rescue, she said: -- "If I had a gun I would shoot the b----h through her
nasty head!" But in the midst of this storm the boys entered the house and
passed the little nigs "bodily" from the posession [sic] of this chivalrous
family to the sister; and then searched the house for garments to protect
their then almost naked limbs from the cold piercing wind. The great burly
man did not make so much demonstration as did the wife, but the negro women
were more afraid of him. "O, lor dem boys are de braves' fellers dere ever
was." "If dey'd ben any cowards, dey'd nebber got dese yer chilin." "De ole
man was big 'nuf an savage 'nuf to to [sic] eat dem up; but dey warn't no
mo' fraid on him -- Lor!" ["]Dey went right in and fotch de chilin straight
out!" Not only these women but those whom they passed on the road, and who
knew the parties raised their black hands and cried; -- "bress de Lor!" "You'se
got de chilin at las'!" I asked the oldest of the girls, (about 10 years)
if she could carry a pail-full of water on her head; -- She replied -- "yes
sir." (No doubt she could, for I saw, to-day, a little black girl, not,
apparrently [sic] larger than our Lulie, come to the spring, fill a water
pail full, put it on her woolly little head and carry it steadily away without
using her hand to balance it, and with apparent ease!)
The sister of these children said "I can work, -- dat I can. Bless de Lor
for dat!" "I have take car myself dese two year; an I can take car dese young
'uns!"
She told her guards that she was going to have a big party with music and
dancing "jus all for dem;" and she is going to send for them when she gets
"ebry ting ready."
I presume that none of the stone hearted soldier men who saw the group standing
before the fire place, and heard the grateful girl try to thank God and the
guards sufficiently for their aid in rescuing their little sisters, would
not own that they felt a choking sensation in their throats, and that they
had a suspicion of tears in their manly eyes; but I am persuaded to believe
that such was the case, even though they might deny it.
The boys in camp tonight are trying to make merry by the use of sour cider,
whisky, & beer; but so far as my observation goes, succeed best in making
quarrels and noisy cursings and swearings.
My tent-mate is on picket at the Creek; and I am keeping Christmas with you
and Frank Beecher (Co H), whose picture I send home for preservation.
My Christmas supper consisted of a slice of bread & butter, a mince pie
& a pint of coffee, eaten alone at our low table, beside a cheerful fire
to temper the atmosphere of the Southern winter.
I send the photographs of "Hen" Lee, and Frank Beecher -- citizen & soldier.
Lee has been the tentmate of Paul since the battle of Fredricksburg [sic],
-- a year. You will please to keep them safe for me. Serg't M. has "The Bugle
Call," and we have frequent singing parties at our tent, Marshall accompanying
with his flute.
John M. told me that he had re-enlisted; but made me promise not to write
about it, as he wished to surprise his friends!
No, I am not in that little shebang. That was where we took quarters while
on picket. My house in Co. E. St. is more comfortable; and my fire-place
has better manners than to "smoke in the house." I am afraid that I did not
speak discouragingly enough of E. J.'s enlisting. To one in his condition
there is great danger of losing life by chronic diarrhea, or by aggravation
of the present difficulties. He must think of these things; and if he is
no better than he was the last year I was at home he will not be long in
making up his mind to stay at home.
Mr Green does seem to be in an unpleasant fix just at present; and I fear
that Bernardstonians will not do much to help him. I get few letters from
Sarah now, and write as few. I received one from her on the 24th. I suppose
that I shall soon find myself directing my letters to Cushman, since the
changing of the name of the town is one of the conditions of the will of
its fame-loving posthumous benefactor. The money consideration will have
its weight with Bernardstonians; and I have no doubt that the rechristening
of the town will be consented to. Cushman is a good enough name; and as the
benevolent and other deeds of that family have for a long time been associated
with the place, I see no insuperable objection to the adoption of the name,
in compliance with Mr Cushmans wish; and even if no "money consideration"
was offered. Long live the memory of what was good in him, sez I.
I am anxious to receive the paper containing the copy of his will.
I send $2.00 with which to pay for cartes de visite. When you get them you
may send me three, and if the money will pay for more than six pictures please
to get the money's worth.
I must go draw my ration of "sour crout [sic]."
Good bye & love to all
Chas A Boyle.
Letter, 17 January,1864
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
Camp Butler, Jan 17th/64
Dear Home,
Grace's letter, of the 11th was received on the 16th, while I was on picket
at Deep Creek. We were relieved this (Sunday) morning.
The regiment is under orders to report to Gen Peck, at Newberne, N. C. Harlands
brigade having been chosen to take the place of Gen Heckman's brigade there,
-- Gen Heckman having been ordered to relieve Gen Getty, who is to leave
this Division for the command of a Division in the army of the Potomac. Gen
Heckman prefers to have his brigade in this place to us; and, it is said,
is anxious to get Gen Harland, who outranks him, out of the way. The 8th
& 11th are now in Conn, as is Gen Harland and staff also. Col. Beach
of the 16th is in command of this half the brigade; and he, with Col Upham,
is trying to keep us here. Immediately on receiving the orders to report
to Gen Peck, the Cols. -- Beach and Upham telegraphed to Gen Harland to come
to the rescue! So we are under marching orders; and have only to wait and
see how these "jealous great men" will finally arrange matters. We can wait
-- till our term of service expires, if it please them to have us do so!
Whether we march or not you may direct letters as usual.
There is a row in the camp -- Whisky got in somehow to-day, and has got mixed
up with the brutes. The guard house is getting full, and I am getting --
sleepy. Good night.
Monday -- 18th -- "Everything is quiet" on the East Branch this morning.
Our Corp Thorp, who went before Gen Casey's Examining Board at Washington,
received a Capts commission yesterday; and is assigned to command a company
in the 29th Conn Vols (colored). Joe Gray has been before the board: -- result
not known. Co E all wish he may get a commission! Sergts. Marshall &
Griswold of Co E. are now at Washington for examination; and it is said that
we have another member who will go if these last are successful. If all these
get commissions we shall have to have a new non-commissioned staff for Co
E. There will remain 2 sergeants, and 4 corporals: -- thus there will be
7 vacancies. Paul will probably be promoted to sergt. This is counting before
the chickens are hatched however; and what I have said is only "between you
& me." I don't think Gray could pass an examination before Casey's board.
He has no education, is a poor writer and speller, and is not well informed
generally. He is seen at best advantage from the "outside;" and if he gets
anything it must be for what he can do -- not for what he knows. He has studied
tactics, has had good opportunities for putting himself in trim in that respect,
is prompt, willing, and ambitious. These soldiers dont like "noncommish"
who try to do their whole duty: -- so Co E. hate Joe Gray! He means well,
but his manner is not agreeable.
The schooner load of Christmas presents for the Conn boys arrived some ten
days ago. Sergt Marshall got his barrel, full of good things; and has since
had two splendid boxes from New York. -- one of which came since we left
for Washington. I have been packing up a large box of our things to send
to Newberne by Express -- if we are to go.
The company got, by the schooner, 7 bbls -- 4 of potatoes, 1 of apples, 2
of assorted vegetables, and quantities of dried apples, turnips, onions &c
&c. In one of the barrels opened at the commissarys was a small teachest,
for Serg't Marshall, filled with walnuts, cookies & books. You would
have laughed to see the boys roll the barrels away to their streets. The
friends who sent them have no idea how gratefully they were recieved [sic].
Send a photo to Aunt Mary and acknowledge, for me, the receipt of a pictorial
paper from her. I promised one to Sarah Carpenter. Please give her one. Keep
one at home, send me three, and two will remain to be disposed of
hereafter.
Bernardston is a great place, and should get its name changed -- then secede.
I believe that some of its inhabitants are capable of any meanness that the
mind of man can concieve [sic]. Oh, how I love to hear of their greatness,
their wonderful self-sacrifices, their generosity, their great hearted,
magnanimous, Christian-like words and actions. How proud I am of so many
noble friends in great, patriotic "Cushman!" I would like to apply a draft
to some purpose there.
The latest about moving is, that we are to go as soon as vessels can be got
ready to transport us, -- sometime between now & Wednesday. I like the
idea of going; but rather dread the voyage round Hatteras. The boys say they
like the idea of going to Newberne, because we shall not be so likely, if
there, to be sent into the army of the Potomac -- the dread of all soldiers,
and officers as well. Col. Upham, (it is said) thinks that if we go to Newberne
there is more danger of getting into the army of the Potomac than if we remain
here; and he seems to be as anxious to keep out of that great-suffering,
all-enduring, ever-marching, ever-mud-bound, ever-unlucky army as the meanest
of us!
We are to be paid for two months to-morrow, the Col says.
I must now ablute myself, change my flannels, and "retire." Good night!
20th -- Was on guard yesterday; and was obliged to be awake all night to
look after a dozen of the "8th's" conscripts that we had in the guard-house.
These conscripts are a pest; and I wish the 8th Reg't would come back and
hang them. We have been paid to-day. I have paid my debts and have $23.00
left, with part of which I must buy a watch.
I have been packing my knapsack to-day, preparatory to marching to-morrow
morning at 7 o'clock, as the order is. We shall take transports at Portsmouth,
and proceed to Newbern. What the orders will be then don't try to guess now
--
21st The Fifteenth is at the dock in Portsmouth, and will probably embark
before night.
Direct as usual, or to Ft Monroe.
Chas A Boyle
Letter Excerpts,1864
[Edited and transcribed by K. Nolin, M.L.I.S., Assistant Library Director, The Connecticut Historical Society]
At the end of January 1864, the 15th was transferred via steamer from Portsmouth to New Bern, NC.
With Boyle's letter of 5 February 1864 is a Confederate pass, probably from the 3rd Georgia Cavalry.
For many disparaging references to "Lt. 'Nancy,'" an obviously unpopular officer, see letter of 19 April 1864. "Nancy" would seem to have been George C. Merriam.
Boyle's letter of 29 April 1864 contains a hand-drawn map of Hill's Point on the Tar River, 7 miles below Little Washington, NC.
Boyle's letter of 26 June 1864 contains a hand-drawn map of New Bern, NC, keyed to notations within the letter.