JPK Huson 1863
Brev. Brig. Gen'l
- Joined
- Feb 14, 2012
- Location
- Central Pennsylvania
Whomever put the book together may have mislabeled some images- it's not an 1863 photo, guessing 1890 or so. Still, it's Ravenswood house.
I'm guessing someone knows more of the life of Henrietta Fitzhugh Barre than I can uncover. I mean, she was born a Virginia Fitzhugh, a name you could compare with heck, Windsor or at least a peer of the realm by way of being American royalty back when we were convinced we still had royal lines.By 1860 she's been married to a man named Barre, is now either widowed or Barre is elsewhere, has a daughter, Molly and is living with her parents, the Henry Fitzhughs at a home ( plantation ) called Ravenswood.
Public access, Hathitrust, please go here if there's doubt because it was only published in 1963. Marietta College, Ohio. It's possible it was published previously or the college gave permission to allow the diary to be in public acces.
Her diary, encompassing only part of the war was published as a book. The introduction seems to carefully avoid mention of her husband- poking around, he may have been a German immigrant but boy has he vanished. " The diarist, Mrs. Henrietta Fitzhugh Barr, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Fitzhugh, had returned to her birthplace after the death of her ten year old daughter, Mollie." , from the introduction- and it isn't true. Mollie is still alive in 1860 when Henrietta and Molly are living with her parents at Ravenswood house so there's some mystery attached.
It's now West Virginia, Jackson County. I can't find where the house still stands although you dedicated travelers out there might know.
It's enough to read without delving into Henrietta's marital past. There's some interesting stuff here. It's a plantation, the Fitzhughs were slaveholders yet there's almost no mention of the world outside Henrietta's windows. Her eye-witness accounts as war rolls by and sometimes through the doors of Ravenswood are peppered with Henrietta's obvious sympathies. It's a country torn apart. I found it difficult reading for several reason but also somewhat reassuring. We were there once. Then we weren't.
Long- it's a year. It's worth it especially if we're committed to ' What was it like '. Armies brush by, officers in blue and gray interact with Henrietta's family, battles stun them as this new reality sinks in. Posting in several posts- like I said, it's a year's worth.
February, 1862
Sunday, Feb. 16th. This is the coldest day we have had this winter, everything looks frozen and we hover around the fire to keep ourselves from freezing. . . . Wednesday, 19th. Spent nearly all day in answering letters. It rained almost incessantly which was rather favorable for our occupation. In the evening I found a little bundle of my dear little Mollie's doll clothes and playthings which I arranged and put away. My darling child, how forcible these little rag babes and the number and variety of their clothing made by her busy little fingers, now so still and cold, remind me of her.
Thursday, 20th. The abolitionists of this place are frantic with delight at the Fort D. affair. The Unionists here are an unscrupulous set of Black Republicans who would rejoice over the slaughter of their former friends and neighbors.
Saturday, 22nd. This memorable anniversary is to render still more memorable by the inauguration of Jefferson Davis as President of the Confederate States. With such an able and great man at the head of our government we will never have occasion to give up.
Tuesday, 25th. Spent the whole day dressmaking. In the evening Dr. Hoyt came, administered a drop of comfort by telling us some favorable news. He has just heard that France is expected to break the blockade immediately. Only hope it is true. Now, more than ever, we need foreign intervention. . . .
Wednesday, 26th. In this quiet life we lead there is so little to break the monotony. With us "one day telleth of another" except occasionally when we hear some stirring accounts of a new battle or when we are excited to indignation by some fresh act of tyrrany or usurption on the part of the upstart unionists. ... In the evening I read two Cin. papers. They are proverbially false. Their statements are so contradictory we do not pretend to rely upon them. Even taking their own version of the affair, The Ft. Donaldson capture is not near so great a victory as they first pretended. Friday, 28th. Today commenced having some repair work done on the well , as we employ 3 hands and have to cook 3 meals a day it makes quite an addition to our work. . . .
March, 1862
Saturday, March 1st. . . . Today read Pres. Davis' inaugural address. I was much pleased with the pious tone of it.
Monday, 3rd. . . . Tonight read a couple of papers, a cheerless account of Southern affairs — the northerners gloat over their recent victories to such a degree it is in tolerable. They already boast that the South is subjugated. Their laughter may be turned to mourning before long. The South never can be subjugated. Friday, 7th. A UNION BALL at Keeney's tonight, at which the ladies (**x)0!) are all to appear a la Mrs. Lincoln and Mrs. McClellan. I have no doubt it will be a killing affair.
Saturday, 8th. The ball at K's broke up in a great row. Pistols and Bowie knives were more plenty than refreshments. Came very near being in reality a "killing affair". . . .
Thursday, 13th. After dinner went up to see Susan and had a fine sweet talk. Received a letter from sister by the evening mail giving an account of the barbarous treatment of our brave men captured at Fort Donaldson by Lincoln's hirelings. Poor fellows me heart bleeds for them. They had almost as well be killed in battle as to be in the power of those bloodthirsty abolitionists.
Saturday, 15th. Mrs. McGuire came to see us. Were agreeabley entertained by her graphic description of "high life" in Parkersburg. Heard of the evacuation of Manassas. Tuesday, 18th. Spent the day in our flower garden and the churchyard, which is a hallowed spot to us.
Monday, 31st. Took a ride in the wagon to Mrs. Wells where we dined. . . .
April, 1862
Friday, 4th. This is my birthday. For many reasons it is the saddest one I ever spent, "Lord make me to know my end and the measure of my days. . . ." Sunday, 6th. Opened our Sunday school which has been closed ever since June on account of the disturbances. A very good school for the first day; I had 6 scholars. . . .
Wednesday, 9th. Busy all day coloring and varnishing a set of table mats to send to Sarah Cotton.
Friday, 25th. Whaley, the congressman from this district, sent me a large package of garden seeds, the second I have received from him.
Tuesday, 29th. A bright pleasant day The Feds say they have taken New Orleans. Corinth is evacuated, that Yorktown is or will soon be in their possession. All Yankee stories. We cannot rely on a word they say.
May, 1862
Thursday, May 1st. This day a year ago my little Mollie went in the wood with her Aunt Anne to get wild flowers for her garden. The little daisies and violets are blooming where she planted them, although she never lived to see them. Her grave is beautiful with sweet flowers garnished by white pebbles and shells. Each day when we come to change the flowers the little grave is wet with our tears. Went with Mat to see Susan in the afternoon. On our return stopped at the post office. Mat received a late letter from dear Nick. All our brothers are well and write quite cheerfully. It inspires us with renewed hope to receive a letter from them. Anne, Lollie and I took a walk after tea to Mrs. Wells to get butter.
Friday, 2nd. Mr. Ben Davenport spent the evening with us. Had quite a political discussion. He was decidedly "Union" in his sentiments but (to do him justice) he is the only Unionist I ever saw who was at all reasonable or would listen to reason. In spite of all we failed to convince him of his errors and we are of the same opinion still.
Saturday, 3rd. This is sister's birthday. Mother, Anne and all of us spent the whole morning at the churchyard, planting, trimming the shrubbery, etc., etc. In the afternoon assisted Winny with some puddings and pies for Sunday's dinner. The Misses Fleming called in the evening. Sweet weather although rather cool for the season.
Wednesday, 7th. Mr. J. H. Brown of Kanawha (called Judge by the Wheeling Con vention) called to see us today. Got into a political discussion. Of course we did not agree. He said many hard things of the South but pretended to be in such good humor all the time it was impossible to be offended. Says it is his belief that this war will not be continued two months longer and the old "union" will be restored in all its former glory, stars and stripes waving over us.
Thursday, 8th. Heard today of the evacuation of Yorktown by the Confederate Troops. Received by this mail a delightful letter from A. Buckner and wife whose house G. T. stayed in while in Bowling Greene, giving us the particulars of G's illness.
Saturday, 10th. The Lincolnites seem to be quite jubilant at the unusual success of their arms. It is reported that a party of southern troops came into Arnoldsburg Thursday night capturing a large quantity of Federal provisions and quite a number of the 11th Va. Regiment who were stationed there. The rumor occasions quite a panic among the Feds of this place. A number of wagons which came here to receive pro visions for that place are afraid to return. The town is strictly guarded, no one daring to go out of the corporation without a pass. The Confeds, they say, have penetrated as far as Spencer, 23 miles from this place. Of course all the Unionist sympathize with their military friends in terror.
Sunday, 11th. Went to Sunday school and heard Mr. Stephens preach in the morning. In the afternoon the Military tried to raise a little excitement by marching around with the stars and stripes. Say they expect a reinforcement of 3000 men before they can leave for Spencer. A dozen or more soldiers bringing with them a flag, a drum and fife, wherewith the to route the enemy, arrived on a post this evening. Seem to be a disorderly drunken lot. They are expecting Gen. Kelly tomorrow or tonight. Mrs. Hoyt was much excited. She sent over for one of us to keep her company a while, Anne and I went over and spent the evening with her.
Friday, 16th. Mrs. Cox arrived this evening with Lilly Cox, her granddaughter.
Saturday, 17th. Spent the day most pleasantly listening to Mrs. C. It would be im possible to write all we talked about . . . our themes were so varied. I do not pretend to recollect them. Our letters from Ka. bring pleasant news of the bravery of our dear Henry and the estimation in which he is held. Took a walk around the City to show Mrs. Cox its beauties. She expressed herself well pleased by the neat appearance of the place.
Monday, 19th. Mrs. Cox left this evening much regretted by us all. I think her spirits were much cheered, by the visit. Mother had a visit from Capt. King, the commander of the troops here. Yesterday and today there has been a fresh arrival of soldiers. The town seems quite full today. They are drilling constantly in the streets. The drum and fife keep up an incessant discord. The men are rather annoying begging for flowers, music, etc. Several of them have been in our poultry yard. Our eggs are missing. I expect the hens will be taken next.
Tuesday, 20th. A company of cavalry came in today from Spencer. It is impossible to find out the object of the visit. There is surely enough soldiers here to protect the few provisions they have. I should not be surprised if they were not flying from the "Partisan Rangers" or maybe they are frightened by the ghost of "that dreadful Jenkins." Mrs. Hoyt lent us a paper. The news is rather encouraging for us. Although they try to conceal it. . . . We get no papers of our own. ... It seems an impossibility for them to tell the truth.
Friday, 23rd. I received such a pleasant letter today from Mr. P, the Catholic Priest, relative to our dear Henry. It is so pleasant to listen to the praises of those you love. Got a paper today . . . nothing new. . . . Federals have made no further advance on Richmond. At Corinth they remain in status quo.
Monday, 26th. Anne's birthday. Wrote to Ka. I hear that our troops are gaining ground in the valley. The Unionists are not quite so confident as they were a month ago. Tuesday, 27th. Various floating rumors. Among them that our forces under Jackson have regained possession of Winchester and Harpers Ferry and have destroyed a portion of the road from Parkersburg which will prevent the transportation of troops and provisions into the mountain department. It is said that McClellan is dead and Cox is surrounded — perhaps captured. I hope it is all true . . . but it is too much of a good thing.
Wednesday, 28th. The reports of the recapture of Winchester prove correct. Generals Ewell and Jackson with a small force have driven Banks across the Potomac. McClellan is still before Richmond and Cox is being whipped in the southwest.
June, 1862
Tuesday, June 3rd. Nothing new in the way of army news. The Lincoln papers are very careful in suppressing all discouraging accounts of battles, as we get no southern papers . . . the inference we draw from their silence is favorable to our cause. We daily expect to hear of a battle at Corinth and also at Richmond. We are prepared at both places. If the Feds will only come on we will give them a warm reception. A cavalry company (the 4th Va.) came in from Spencer to guard some provisions ... a dreadful rowdy looking set. I expect our garden and hen coop will be sacked tonight. Wednesday, 4th. As I anticipated the places where our lettuce and onions grew are now barren. Our poultry has also been considerably thinned out. It is no use to complain of these things. They say we "Secesh" must feed the "Union." It is no idle boast with them.
Monday, 9th. Went out shopping with Anne and Mat. Sewed industriously all the after noon. Listened to Anne read the papers. I think our southern prospects begin to brighten a little. Although the Feds occupy Corinth they have not got Richmond yet. They acknowledge a great loss in the battle near there.
Wednesday, 11th. The weather still continues cool and damp for the season. There is to be an eclipse of the moon tonight, commencing at 11 P.M. I do not think I shall Charles with a request to the Captain to come up to see her. Of course, the invitation was not accepted. They have no idea of making any reparation. George and Drusia Fleming came up after tea to give us a little music. Everything is quiet when we retire but we have lost all the old sense of security, particularly when we have these lawless cavalrymen in our midst.
Thursday, 12th. The first information that greeted our ears this morning was the loss of a sow and seven pigs, five or six hens and nearly all of our onions. As soon as we were dressed Anne and I sallied forth to see the Capt. ourselves with the hope that we should be more successful than Charles had been. We were fortunate enough to meet him in the street, informed him of our losses, but were treated with such cool contempt it was almost ridiculous. I feel assured from the man's looks he had just con sumed one of our little porkers for his breakfast and there was another in course of preparation with a couple fowls stuffed with onions for his dinner.
Sunday, 15th. After Sunday school we were annoyed all day by the insolent conduct of a company of cavalry who seem to have taken complete possession of the town. We have no privacy whatever. Our yard and garden are no longer our own, and we, like prisoners, have to confine ourselves closely to the house for fear of personal insults. Miss M. left in the evening. We also parted with Mr. Kirby, a kind of friend who has gone to make a home in the far west. Now that "days are dark and friends are few," we shall feel his loss sensibly.
Monday, 16th. Mother sent today to the Commanding Officer to complain of his men. Her only redress was an insulting message in reply and request to "treat the men more politely." No doubt we shall have a second edition of Butler's proclamation after a while.
Thursday, 19th. A cold rain kept us housed all the morning. In the evening Mat, Mrs. D. and I went up to Susan's and took tea. Oscar Fleming made us a little call of several hours after supper. The news still continues favorable for us. McClellan has fallen back from Richmond and Stonewall Jackson is playing smash with Fremont's and Shield's divisions. If something is not done to "squelch" Stonewall he will establish the independence of the southern Confederacy and subjugate Old Abe and all of his forces. . . . Union men, women and children to arms.
Monday, 23rd. I wrote to sister. Mother, Mat, and Anne wrote to the boys and Sarah C. Sarah F. came up to spend the day. Kate is going to stay all night. Mr. Kirk came in the evening in his buggy to take Anne and Lollie out with him. They will spend a day and night with him. I called to see old Mrs. Chidester who is lying dangerously ill. Her family are much distressed. Another company of cavalry headed by Col. Dan Frost arrived today. The Col. drove the men out of our yard and garden, threatening them if the offense was repeated he would have them punished.
Wednesday, 25th. Spent part of the evening with Mrs. Hoyt who is quite sick. Mother, Anne and Mat wrote to the boys. Sarah F. has applied for a pass to go to them. If she is successful she says she will leave immediately. Anne and Mat took the children out to walk . . . they gathered a quantity of May apples. ... I am engaged in the (to me) unpleasant business of making a dress. A soldier brought us a paper containing rather cheering news for us. Of course they (the Feds) gave a coloring to everything to suit their views. All secession news is carefully suppressed. They have ordered the "Cin. Enquirer" to discontinue. This is no longer a free country. We are not allowed an ex pression of our thoughts. They would suppress the thoughts if they only had the power. We are living under a strict military despotism.
Saturday, 28th. Mother and Anne spent the day at Robt. Parks. In the evening G. Fleming and sister and Alvan Burditt came in. The late papers bring the news of the appointment of Gen. Pope (Fed) to the Valley Dept. In consequence it is said Fremont and Shield tender their resignations. Genls. Jackson and Ewell, they say, have been largely reinforced. Beauregard with his force is at Richmond. McClellan has been reinforced and we are daily expecting a great battle at or near Richmond. The Unionists of this place are making great preparations for the celebration of the 4th of July. Judging by the quantity and quality of their managers and manageresses, it will be quite an imposing affair. . . . Dan Frost has some very startling and stringent resolutions in the Chronicle with regard to the ill fated "Moccasins." Nothing but their blood will satisfy Dan. He says he is determined to burn the houses and imprison all who are friendly or who harbour these "miscreants" and he will do it. I wonder the government should be so insensible to the merits of the valiant warrior. It is thought by some (himself, among the number) that
the country would be benefited by an exchange between McClellan and himself. Maybe old Abe might be induced to evacuate his throne in favor of the Lt. Col.
Sunday, 29th. After Sunday school Anne and I called to see Mrs. Chidester who is very ill. She seems almost on the verge of eternity. She is in a very happy frame of mind, so calm so composed and hopeful. At her request, we sang "Jesus, Savior of my Soul" and "Oh for a closer walk with God", for her. She had so much company we did not stay long. In the evening Susan brought us a late paper, which only confirms the news alluded to yesterday. A warm rainy day. To make it more unpleasant a fresh arrival of cavalry confines us closely to the house. These men are so perfectly lawless it would be neither safe or pleasant for ladies to trust themselves in the street. This day a year ago my dear brothers were forced to leave their homes. It was in reality the commencement of the war in Ravenswood. How forcibly I am reminded of the sad event and the troubles which succeeded it. The retrospect is so painful I cannot dwell on it. Dear boys, I know their thoughts are with us as ours are with them.
July, 1862
Wednesday, 2nd. Read a paper containing a partial account of the great battle near Richmond. I am led to conclude from the manner in which things are garbled and suppressed that we (the S) have achieved a victory. God grant it may be so. The extracts from foreign papers are most encouraging. They are down on the brutality of Butler's notorious proclamation. Dr. Hoyt came in this evening to discuss the late news, agrees with us in thinking the Yanks have been whipped.
Friday, July 4th. Formerly the anniversary of American Independence. The Union Sun day School assisted by the abolition friends are having a picnic, speeches etc. in the woods. Just as Lieut. Col. Frost was in the midst of his speech he was interrupted by the intelligence that the "moccasins are killing all our men near Spencer," whereupon the valiant Dan immediately mounted his steed and at the head of a party of cavalry, all "armed and equipped" proceeded to route the aforesaid guerillas or moccasins. Dan is a little like McClellan, hard to move, but "nary a man." The days of the Moccasins are numbered. I hear that the picnic turned out (as such affairs usually do) stale, flat, and unprofitable. The ball which was to have come off in the evening was indefinitely postponed. By a paper and dispatches of July 3rd, we gladly welcomed the gratifying news of the success of our arms near Richmond. The information is very scanty coming as it does through Federal sources.
Saturday, July 5th. Anne and I went up to clean the church this morning. Soon after we returned the cavalry, infantry, baggage wagons, etc. like little "Bo Peep" all came home. I have not heard of the success of the undertaking. No doubt it was most brilliant. A., Mat and myself went to call at Robt. Parks' on some southern friends. On our return heard that the chivalrous Lieut. Col. had burnt six houses thus rendering six families of secession sympathizers homeless. Glory enough for one day.
July 6th. This is the warmest day we have had this summer. The thermometer is at 90 degrees. After school we had an unusually quiet time. The day seemed so long and dull it had the effect to depress one's spirits, which was only relieved by the glorious news from Richmond. McClellan is repulsed, whipped, driven back with great loss. I make no comments but only hope that this great victory may be the harbinger of peace. We look for further particulars by tomorrow's mail.
Monday, July 14th. The Union troops here are in a great state of excitement about the guerillas. They are afraid to take their train out as they intended today. There is a report that there are 200 Georgia cavalry about forty miles from here which adds greatly to the alarm and hubbub. There will be no sleep tonight for the poor distracted Unionists. I presume these like all preceding rumors of the kind, are groundless. Mr. Kirby and the Fleming girls called in the afternoon.
Wednesday, July 16th. A tremendous row in Ripley last night occasioned by a fight between Jim Greer and a man called Gilpin. Greer came near killing Gilpin. The U. S. troops under command of Capt. Bags threatened to burn the town producing a great excitement among the women and children. Bag has had considerable experience lately in burning houses. He seems to like that branch of the service. So the fears of the Ripleyities were not unfounded, particularly as B. and his men were reported to be drunk. It is said that the "rrebels" have regained possession of Murfreesboro and are marching on Nashville. No late news from Cox. There are vague rumors of another battle at Lewisburg. The "secesh" gained the victory.
Tuesday, July 22nd. I feel quite "used up" after last evening's dissipation. Our own quiet home evenings are much more to my taste. Went this morning to see Mrs. Long who has been quite ill. We are very much annoyed by a company who with their horses and wagons have encamped on one side of our yard. This is in addition to the cavalry company on the other side have destroyed anything like privacy or comfort. It is a great nuisance, but we must endeavor to bear it with patience and hope that a "good time is coming." A letter from dear Henry speaks confidently of a speedy termination of the war and a reunion with our loved ones. I pray we may not be disappointed. Everything on our side wears an encouraging aspect. To cover their mortification the Yanks are more and more insolent every day.
Saturday, July 26th. Anne, Lollie and I walked up to Mrs. E. Wells before tea. Found the parlor full of company on our return. In the evening 2 drunken soldiers intruded themselves upon us, insisting that we would give them some music. Of course, we declined. They seemed much incensed, using the most insulting and profane language I ever heard. It is very hard to book the insults we are continually subjected to but it is no use complaining to their officers. In many respects they are worse than their men, so we can hope to obtain no redress from them.
Tuesday, July 29th. Was sick all day yesterday, consequently made no entry in my journal. Mother, Mat and the children spent the day at Susan's. Hear that the Con federate troops have taken possession of Parkersburg. Also, that they occupy Charleston. That they made a raid on Racine and a variety of other rumours too numerous to mention. All of which needs confirmation.
Wednesday, July 30th. Nothing more to add to yesterday's rumours. Mr. R. Park called, contradicted some of the reports. So we live; one day we hear an exciting tale which is pronounced unfounded on the next. I am getting so skeptical I am afraid I shall not believe the truth if I ever should be fortunate enough to hear it again.
August, 1862
Had a "dining" today. The Wells, Sweenys, Parks, Sarah and Susan. Several others were invited but for various reasons could not come. The all abounding topic was Dan Frost's latest proclamation wherein he enjoins the "secesh" to quit visiting and stay quietly at home. I wonder if he thinks we are going to mind him. He (Dan) also forbids the "Cin. Enquirer" to be bought or sold in this county. What next, Mr. Dan?
Wednesday, August 6th. Last night this place was the scene of a cruel murder, the cavalry deliberately shooting a poor prisoner. The man attempted to make his escape. He was fired upon and killed immediately and now his unburied corpse lays in the mill lot exposed to the hot rays of the sun. More like a poor heap than one who a few hours ago was animated by a never dying soul. I understand they have ordered a box and are scraping a shallow grave by the rivers edge to bury him. Such gross atrocities need no comments.
Saturday, August 9th. Today the militia is called out for the purpose of drafting. Volunteering goes on so slowly "Uncle Sam" has to resort to bribery, drafting and every kind of artifice to fill their thinned ranks. They have promised to subdue the rebellion before Christmas. Such threats have been so frequently made and broken that we cease to fear them.
Monday, August 11th. Anne and I spent the day at Mrs. Wells. She seems greatly distressed about the drafting. Heard that 400 of our cavalry had surprised and routed quite a large body of Feds at Logan C. H. If it really is true that our men are so near I heartily wish they would come to our rescue and deliver us from this miserable thralldom. But we must learn to "possess our souls in patience." All will yet be well.
Saturday, August 16th. We reached Cin. this morning about 5 o'clock. Breakfast on the boat and then went up to town on a shopping expedition. In purchasing a bonnet we happened to stumble into the shop of a real good "secesh." Of course we patronized her. Cin. is a very little improved since I was here 2 years ago. There seems to be much less business done here than formerly. About 11 o'clock we went on the Louisville Packet. There were a great many passengers, a large majority of them ladies. There is a piano on board which is continually "going." Some of the ladies play quite well, among the number a Miss Wright of L. who struck up an acquaintance with us on the score of friendship to sister and the family. She informed us that our old friend Mr. Whittle was on the boat. We immediately sent for him. He seemed delighted to meet us, had been on a visit to the Lakes and Canada and was getting quite impatient to be at home. We had a very pleasant time from Cin. to Louisville. The weather is delightful and we found much to amuse us.
Monday, August 18th. We are particularly favored by the weather which is most delightful. Mr. and Mrs. Whittle, Mrs. and Miss Wright, and Mrs. Smith called to see us this morning. After luncheon, Sister, Anne and I sallied forth for a walk. Called to see Mr. Quarrier at Duvalls' old store. Purchased some photographs of our great Southern Generals. I am pleased to see such a strong southern feeling here. In this, as in every other large place, all who can lay any claim to intelligence and refinement go for states lights. While Hennie was engaged in an animated conversation with her beaux, Mr. Q., Sister, Anne, Cush and I went to an ice cream saloon and feasted on pineapple sherbet and cake.
Friday, August 22nd. Just as we were getting ready to leave this morning Mr. Quarrier came in with the unexpected news that "no one was allowed to leave the city without a pass." We all accordingly went down to the Provost Marshalls where (through the influence of a Union friend) we were speedily accomodated with the desired papers. We esteemed ourselves quite fortunate, since more than 50 who were to leave on the same boat with us were refused. Dear Cush. had a sweet little photograph taken of my darling Mollie and presented it to me. Just one year ago today I parted with my dear child who left her home with her grandmother to visit Charleston, so full of life and loveliness it made my heart glad to look at her. In four short months her spirit was with God who gave it. How vividly do these events recur to me as I take leave of my dear sister and brother and their children. We may never meet again but "He who doeth all things well" knows what is best for us. We must learn to cast all our cares on Him who careth for us. Mr. Q. and the boys went down to the boat with us. Mr. Q. introduced us to the Captain and put us under his protection. The boat was crowded with passengers. We had a comfortable state-room and enjoyed ourselves very well. Everybody who travels are Union. A. and I are very quiet. There are a large number of Union soldiers on board who have been taken prisoners and paroled by Gen. Morgan. They speak in the most complimentary manner of his chivalry and gallantry. This is dear Archie's 21st birthday. He was very anxious that I should celebrate it with him, but the water is so low and we feel so uneasy about home we could not consent to remain a day longer.
Sunday, August 24th. Sunday on a steamboat is very much like any other day of the working days. We fortunately have the Bible and some good religious papers to read. It is so very warm we have to sit most of the time on the guards where we hear politics discussed pretty extensively. Cin. down "Morgan" is the all absorbing terror; from Cin. up the river we hear of nothing but that "dreadful Jenkins." Barr home today in Ravenswood
Sunday, August 31st. Sunday school today. A rather slim attendance of scholars. Several of the teachers absent owing I suppose to the intended marriage of one of them this evening. Miss Mary Taylor is to be married to Mr. John Huff. She sent to request me to make the bridal wreath which I accordingly did and carried it up, taking Lollie with me. When I got there found the bride elect and her bridesmaid (Carrie Fleming) busily preparing for the ceremony. They have availed themselves the pleasure of my assistance in arranging their hair and wreaths. They both looked very pretty. As they insisted upon Lollie and myself remaining, we resolved to stay as there were only a few of her relatives present. The ceremony was performed by a strange Metho dist minister and was abridged to the shortest possible limits, not occupying above 1% minutes to complete the solemn compact. After her friends had congratulated the happy couple while the refreshments were being handed around, some of our Union friends, assisted by the soldiers, got up the most immense row outside the house I ever heard. They pounded on the windows, beat the doors and until I really feared they would knock the house down. They could not be quieted until the bride and groom went to the door and showed themselves. After the mob dispersed Lollie and I went home.
September, 1862
Monday, September 1st. We had quite a thunder storm last night accompanied by severe lightning and heavy rain. The air is cooled and pleasant this morning. After tea Geo. Fleming came in bringing us glorious news of the success of our arms in eastern Va. "Stonewall" is within 12 miles of Washington City, driving the enemy before him. I hope this continued series of successes will not make us careless orunthankful. Letters from Sarah C. and dear Aunt Eliza. The latter has much to trouble her. She has our sympathy.
September-Jan.- next post.