Organization of Artillery operating against
Richmond, under Lieutenant General
Ulysses S. Grant, U.S. Army,
on the morning of May 5, 1864.

ARTILLERY.
Brigadier General HENRY J. HUNT.

ARTILLERY RESERVE.
Colonel HENRY S. BURTON.

First Brigade.
Colonel J. HOWARD KITCHING.
6th New York Heavy, Lieutenant Colonel Edmund R. Travis.
15th New York Heavy, Colonel Louis Schirmer.

Second Brigade.
Major JOHN A. TOMPKINS.
Maine Light, 5th Battery (E), Captain Greenleaf T. Stevens
1st New Jersey Light, Battery A, Captain William Hexamer.
1st New Jersey Light, Battery B, Captain A. Judson Clark.
New York Light, 5th Battery, Captain Elijah D. Taft.
New York Light, 12th Battery, Captain George F. McKnight.
1st New York Light, Battery B, Captain Albert S. Sheldon.

Third Brigade.
Major ROBERT H. FITZHUGH.
Massachusetts Light, 9th Battery Captain John Bigelow
New York Light, 15th Battery, Captain Patrick Hart.
1st New York Light, Battery C, Lieutenant William H. Phillips
New York Light, 11th Battery, Captain John E. Burton.
1st Ohio Light, Battery H, Lieutenant William A. Ewing.
5th United States, Battery E, Lieutenant John R. Brinckle.

HORSE ARTILLERY.

First Brigade.
Captain JAMES M. ROBERTSON.
New York Light, 6th Battery, Captain Joseph W. Martin.
2nd United States, Batteries B and L, Lieutenant Edward Heaton.
2nd United States, Battery D, Lieutenant Edward B. Williston.
3rd United States, Battery M, Lieutenant Alexander C.M. Pennington, jr.
4th United States, Battery A, Lieutenant Rufus King, jr.
4th United States, Batteries C and E, Lieutenant Charles L. Fitzhugh.

Second Brigade.
Captain DUNBAR R. RANSOM
1st United States, Batteries E and G, Lieutenant Frank S. French.
1st United States, Batteries H and I, Captain Alanson M. Randol.
1st United States, Baatter K, Lieutenant John Egan.
2nd United States, Battery A, Lieutenant Robert Clarke.
2nd United States, Battery G, Lieutenant William N. Dennison.
3rd United States, Batteries C, F, and K, Lieutenant James R. Kelly.

SECOND ARMY CORPS.
ARTILLERY BRIGADE.
Colonel JOHN C. TIDBALL.
Maine Light, 6th Battery (F), Captain Edwein B. Dow.
Massachusetts Light, 10th Battery, Captain J. Henry Sleeper.
New Hampshire Light, 1st Battery, Captain Frederick M. Edgell.
1st New York Light, Battery G, Captain Nelson Ames.
4th New York Heavy, 3rd Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Allcock.
1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery F, Captain R. Bruce Ricketts.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery A, Captain William A. Arnold.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery B, Captain T. Frederick Brown.
4th United States, Battery K, Lieutenant John W. Roder.
5th United States, Batteries C and I, Lieutenant James Gilliss.

FIFTH ARMY CORPS.
ARTILLERY BRIGADE.
Colonel CHARLES S. WAINWRIGHT.
Massachusetts Light, Battery C, Captain Augustus P. Martin
Massachusetts Light, Battery E, Captain Charles A. Phillips.
1st New York Light, Battery D,Captain George B. Winslow.
1st New York Light, Batteries E and L, Liuet. George Breck.
1st New York Light, Battery H, Captain Charles E. Mink.
4th New York Heavy, 2nd Battalion, Major William Arthur.
1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery B, Captain James H. Cooper.
4th United States, Battery B, Lieutenant James Stewart.
5th United States, Battery D, Lieutenant Benjamin F. Rittenhouse.

SIXTH ARMY CORPS.
ARTILLERY BRIGADE.
Colonel CHARLES H. TOMPKINS.
Maine Light, 4th Battery (D), Lieutenant Melville C. Kimball.
Massachusetts Light, 1st Battery (A), Captain William H. McCartney.
New York Light, 1st Battery, Captain Andrew Cowan.
New York Light, 3rd Battery, Captain William A. Harn.
4th New York Heavy, 1st Battalion, Major Thomas D. Sears.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery C, Captain Richard Waterman.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery E, Captain William B. Rhodes.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery G, Captain George W. Adams.
5th United States, Battery M, Captain James McKnight.

NINTH ARMY CORPS.
Artillery.
Maine Light, 2nd Battery (B), Captain Albert F. Thomas.
Massachusetts Light, 14th Battery, Captain Joseph W. B. Wright.
Massachusetts Light, 11th Battery, Captain Edward, J. Jones.
New York Light, 19th Battery, Captain Edward W. Rogers.
Maine Light, 7th Battery (G), Captain Adelbert B. Twitchell.
New York Light, 34th Battery, Captain Jacob Roemer.
Pennsylvania Light, Battery D, Captain George W. Durell.
Vermont Light, 3rd Battery, Captain Romeo H. Start.

RESERVE ARTILLERY.
Captain JOHN EDWARDS, JR.
New York Light, 27th Battery, Captain John B. Eaton.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery D, Captain William W. Buckley.
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery H, Captain Crawford Allen, jr.
2nd United States, Battery E, Lieutenant James S. Dudley.
3rd United States, Battery G, Lieutenant Edmund Pendleton.
3rd United States, Batteries L and M, Lieutenant Erskine Gittings.

GENERAL ORDERS, ARTY. HDQRS., ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
No.2.} January 15, 1864.

The following instructions and regulations for the artillery of this army,
having been sanctioned by the general commanding, are published for the
government of all concerned:

1. The responsibility of choosing the position for action devolves upon the
commander of the artillery. If assigned to his position by the general officer
under whose orders he is placed he will, to relieve himself from the
responsibility, report to the latter its objectionable features, provided a
better one can be found, and suggest the means necessary to improve or secure
it.

2. In taking up a position, four points require especial attention:

I. The efficacy of fire of the battery.

II. Cover for the pieces from the enemy's fire.

III. The position of the rest of the troops.

IV. Facility of movement.

I. That the fire should be effective is in all cases the most important
consideration, to which, as far as may be necessary, the second consid-
eration must be sacrificed. For this purpose a clear view of the enemy is
necessary, and judgment must be used in the selection of the different
projectiles, according to the nature of the ground and the object to be
attained. Concentration of fire, rather than its distribution, is of
importance; hence the guns should be as much as possible so placed that their
fire may converge on important points, and should not be too much scattered
over the field. In a hilly or undulating country a moderate elevation, which
gives a good view of the ground, is the best position for artillery. Too much
elevation should be avoided, since the fire is more effective in proportion as
the projectiles pass more closely to the ground. Ground covered by bushes,
trees, or other obstructions is not favorable to the use of artillery. It is
advantageous under all circumstances to fire at lines obliquely, and at columns
in the direction of their greatest depth. Against walls, the most effective
projectile is solid shot. Shot and, in rare cases, shell should be used against
log stockades, barricades, & c., and for sweeping a wood - to which latter
purpose shrapnel and canister are not well adapted - and also against deep
columns of cavalry, taken in the prolongation of the column. There has been too
much neglect of solid-shot fire from the smooth-bore guns, and altogether too
much dependence placed upon shell. In the above cases percussion shell fired
direct so as to act first as solid shot or, at need, shrapnel without the fuse
are the best for rifled field guns. Canister is to be employed at close
quarters. It is effective both from the wide spread of its balls and from the
rapidity, with which it may be fired, accurate aiming not being necessary.
Canister may be fired with great advantage into the edge or skirts of a wood
which is about to be charged by our infantry, and against the flank of an
enemy's battery at close quarters, under which circumstances the canister-shot
are very destructive to both men and horses. The prevailing tendency to the use
of canister is too great. Shrapnel may be considered as a long-range canister,
the iron case or shell carrying the bullets safely over the ground before
distributing them. It should be chiefly used against troops which are
stationary or not moving rapidly, or directed against fixed points over which
an enemy is passing. Distances must be accurately judged, the projectiles
carefully prepared, the fire slow and deliberate, and its effect well noted,
with a view to the correction of errors. Shrapnel is too after wasted.
Artillery officers should recollect that, although it is the most effective and
powerful of projectiles if well used, it is also the most harmless and
contemptible if used badly; that the elements of uncertainty in its effect are
numerous, and therefore in its use nothing should be left to chance which can
be made certain by care and attention. Shrapnel should never be fired rapidly,
except against large and dense masses, and then solid shot would generally be
better. An intelligent officer, or non-commissioned officer, should be detailed
to watch the effect of each shot, and to report what correction appears
necessary. When time presses and observation of the shrapnel fire is difficult,
canister is preferable, if the range is such as to admit of its use. Shrapnel
fire is very effective against lines of troops, columns, or batteries which are
stationary upon open ground. It is not to be used against troops which are
covered from view by the conformation of the ground, or by obstacles of any
kind, except only when it is known that the enemy is stationed within a certain
distance in the rear of a given obstacle, as in the case of field works,
against the defenders of which shrapnel is effective. The allowance of shrapnel
for the light 12-pounder gun is largely in excess of the ordinary requirements
of battle. By reference to the table for packing ammunition chests it will be
seen that for the 12-pounder gun only eight shrapnel are allowed. In
determining the proportion for the light 12-pounder gun the number was
increased to twelve, because circumstances might arise which would make them
useful, but it was expected that habitually one-third of them, at least, would
be used as solid shot. Batteries should be as much as possible protected from
sudden attack, either by their position or by troops posted near them. A
position within rifle-range of a wood, or other cover which is not held by our
own troops, is a bad one, and should not be taken if possible to avoid it,
since the enemy can occupy the cover, if only with sharpshooters, and pick off
our men and horses. Woods and other places of cover within the range of
small-arms must therefore be occupied by our own troops. Even on perfectly open
ground the flanks of a battery must be protected from assaults. Its front can
take care of itself; and hence it follows that the supports of batteries should
never be placed behind them, nor amongst the carriages, but always on the
flanks, either on the prolongation of the line of the battery, or, if cover can
be secured, in advance or rear of that prolongation; but always within easy
supporting distance and no closer, so that the fire directed on the battery may
not injure its supporting troops. Although artillery, as a rule, must protect
itself against attacks from the front, yet if such attacks are made by a heavy
force, either in successive lines or in column, and with determination and
persistence, the supporting troops should, if practicable, wheel forward their
outward flanks, so that their cross-fire may sweep the ground in front of the
battery, and may then charge vigorously with the bayonet, the commander of the
supports having previously arranged with the commander of the battery for a
suspension of the artillery fire. The enemy having been driven off, the
supports will at once fall back toward the flanks so as to unmask the fire of
the battery.

II. Artillery should, whenever practicable without undue detriment to its
offensive powers, seek positions in which it may be protected from the enemy's
fire, or concealed from his observation. The best natural cover is that
afforded by the crest of hills which slope gently toward the enemy. The guns
should be placed behind them with their muzzles looking over the top. The
limbers and caissons will thus be entirely concealed. Cover which makes
splinters when struck by shot, such as masonry, wood stacks, & c., is
objectionable. Artificial cover may be obtained by sinking the piece. This is
done by making an excavation for it to stand in. The excavation should be one
foot and a half deep in front, and should slope gently upward toward the rear.
The earth is to be thrown up in front to the height of about one foot and a
half. Ditches may be dug at the sides for the men. This system of sinking the
piece is used with advantage behind the edge of a hill, as it permits the piece
to be brought closer to the crest and enables it the better to sweep the
ground. Good drainage should always be secured. Next to the protection of the
guns, that of the caissons and limbers is of importance. Where the batteries
are frequently moving the limbers cannot be put under cover, but must remain
close in rear of the pieces. Where so situated that they are not likely to
require movements greater that can be effected by hand, as on a defensive line,
or in position, a caisson body for each piece, or even one for each section,
may be partially protected near the guns by digging trenches of one spade
width, for the wheels only, so as to sink them to the axles, all the limbers
with their horses being placed under cover if it can be found within reasonable
distance of the position of the battery. Each section should load from one
caisson-body until the latter is empty, when it should be
replaced and sent to the ammunition train to be replenished. Neither caissons
nor limbers must, under any circumstances, be so far separated from their guns
as to be beyond the prompt control of the battery commander.

III. The third consideration in posting artillery is the position of the rest
of the troops. In general, the movements and positions of the infantry and
cavalry determine the position for action of the artillery, which usually
places itself on the flanks of the other troops, or between their intervals
where it is secure itself and can fire for the longest period of time. A
position in advance of other troops is very objectionable, especially in
advance of cavalry. Cases occur, however, in which it cannot be avoided, those
cases being, in general, when the action of the artillery is of primary
importance, and there is no suitable position for it elsewhere. When a line of
battle is established, on which infantry is to receive an attack, it is often
strengthened by artificial means. A rifle-pit is dug, or barricades of wood
constructed, or advantage is taken of stone walls, & c. In such cases the
artillery should be placed immediately on the line, preferably on advanced
points, or in flanking positions, if such offer, so that it can be used freely,
and fire canister at need. This it cannot do if posted, as is too often the
case, behind the line so as to fire over the troops. For the reasons already
given, the guns when so posted should not be placed behind wood or stone
barricades. Such cover should be removed and the pieces sunk as already
directed, or earth parapets placed in front of them. It may be laid down as a
rule that artillery should not fire over our own troops. For this there are
three good reasons: Accidents are liable to happen to the troops from
projectiles; it embarrasses their advance by battering the ground in front of
them, and obliging them to hold back until the fire can be stopped or its range
extended; it makes the men over whom the projectiles are passing uneasy, and
may demoralize them. When it becomes necessary to fire over troops, solid shot
and, in rare cases, shell should be used, and not canister nor shrapnel; the
latter projectile being liable to burst too soon, and to carry destruction
among those over whose heads it was intended to pass.

IV. It is of importance that every position assumed by artillery should afford
facilities for free movement in every direction, in order that such new
positions may be taken up as circumstances may require. When this is not the
case, care must at least be taken that the safety of the guns is not
compromised. When the position is to be held to the last extremity, strong
supports should be furnished and the guns fought to the last, so that if lost
it shall be with honor. If the position is not to be so held, and the nature of
the ground will permit, prolonges must be fixed that the battery may be fought
retiring with the other troops. When it is likely that a position will be
carried and its defense will not justify the loss of guns, they must, if the
nature of the ground will not admit of the use of the prolonge, be limbered up
and retired in due season under the protection of their supports. A battery may
often be retired by sections, and half batteries under the protection of its
own fire alone. Whenever a battery takes post, the means of moving it to the
front, the flanks, or the rear must be studied by its commander, and, if
necessary, walls and fences torn down and ditches filled up, so that no
unexpected obstacles may hinder its freedom of movement in any direction. It is
a disgrace to an artillery officer if a gun, or even an opportunity of
rendering service, should be lost through a neglect or want of
forethought on his part. Guns may be honorably lost, especially if their
sacrifice is necessary to the safety of other troops. But in all such cases the
enemy should be made to pay dearly for them.

3. Objects of fire: It is too much the tendency of artillery to fire at
artillery. In the beginning of a battle the artillery should direct its fire
wherever the enemy seems most exposed to danger. When the battle is further
advanced, if our own troops are about to repel an attack, that portion of the
enemy's force is to be fired on whose attack is the most dangerous for the time
being. If we are acting on the offensive, the guns must fire on the portion of
the enemy whose resistance is the most formidable. When acting on the defensive
the enemy's infantry and cavalry are the most proper objects of fire. Artillery
fire is to be concentrated on single points rather than divided between
numerous objects, notwithstanding that such a division or distribution of the
fire may cause a greater absolute loss to the enemy. It is not the number of
killed and wounded that decides a battle, but the panic and demoralization of
those who remain; and this panic and demoralization are much sooner created and
spread by concentrating the artillery fire on successive points that by
distributing it over a wide space. The general rule is that artillery should
concentrate its fire upon that part of the enemy's force which, from its
position, or from its character, it is the most desirable to overthrow. Against
an enemy's battery the fire should be concentrated on a single piece until that
is disabled, and should then be turned upon another, and an analogous plan
should generally be followed in firing upon infantry and cavalry. When firing
upon a hostile column the guns are to be directed at its center. If the column
is in the act of deploying the flank toward which the deployment is being made
is to be fired on with canister or shrapnel. As a general rule artillery should
not fire upon skirmishers or small groups of men. It is too much the habit to
open fire on wagons or single horsemen, or small parties, and sometimes, as in
almost all cases of shelling woods, on a mere suspicion that an enemy may be in
a certain locality. This is a perversion of artillery from its proper duties,
which are to destroy material obstacles and disorganize masses of men, so as to
make them an easy prey to the other arms. A successful fire upon individuals,
or even on small bodies, produces no adequate result, and may be compared to
picket shooting, which scarcely rises above the level of murder.

4. Expenditure of ammunition: One of the evil effects of firing at small bodies
is the waste of ammunition. Rapid firing at large bodies and opening at long
ranges are additional causes of waste. In small skirmishes between 300 and 400
rounds per battery are expended; the fire, according to the reports, frequently
averaging, and sometimes exceeding, one round per minute for each gun. In
general engagements batteries have been known to expend all the ammunition in
their chests in a little over an hour and a half. An officer who expends
ammunition in this manner proves his ignorance of the proper use of his arm,
and a want of capacity for the command of a battery. He also incurs a heavy
responsibility by throwing a whole battery out of use, and should be held to
answer for the consequences. There has been an improvement in this respect, but
there is still too great a consumption of ammunition. It is not so much the
loss of the ammunition that should be considered - limited as is the amount
which an army can transport -as the loss of effect from too distant and too
rapid firing. In no case, except when firing canister at short ranges, should
the rate exceed one round from each gun in two minutes; and that rate should
only be reached at critical moments, when the distance, numbers, and formation
of the enemy are such that the fire is sure to be effective. At all other times
one round in four to six minutes is as rapid firing as should be permitted. The
value of the rifled cannon consists principally in its accuracy. Accuracy
requires careful pointing, with close observation of the effect, and these
require time. Twelve shots in an hour at an object over 1,000 yards distant,
the time being spent in careful loading and pointing, will produce better
results that fifty shots will ordinarily produce from the same gun in the same
time. If a heavy artillery fire is required it should be obtained, not by rapid
firing, but by bringing a large number of guns into action, and firing each
with the greatest accuracy attainable. The campaign allowance is calculated to
suffice for a general action and the combats which usually precede it; and,
under ordinary circumstances, an officer who expends all his ammunition in a
few hours renders himself liable to the suspicion that his reckless expenditure
was prompted by a desire to quit the field. In future, batteries will not be
permitted to leave their positions under this plea. The guns and cannoneers
will remain on the ground until ammunition is furnished them. As soon as one
caisson from each section has been emptied the empty caissons will be sent to
the rear, under charge of a non-commissioned officer, to replenish at the
ammunition train. At a time when all the resources of the country are taxed to
the utmost to provide the army and navy with munitions of war, the
non-effective expenditure of ammunition, in addition to other evils, diminishes
greatly the efficiency of fire to which the artillery might attain; for the
consequent excessive demand gives us, in many instances, imperfectly made and
hastily inspected projectiles, instead of carefully manufactured and approved
ones.

5. The custom which obtains in some batteries of bringing from the
ammunition-chests a number of rounds and placing them near the gun on the
ground is a bad one, and is positively prohibited. It not only leads to too
rapid firing, but in case of a sudden movement of the battery this ammunition
is apt to be left on the ground, as it requires time properly to repack it.

6. Opening fire: That the enemy is within range is not a sufficient reason for
firing upon him. The fire is not to be commenced until the enemy is within
effective range - that is, so near that at least one-quarter of the shots are
hits. Firing at too great a distance wastes ammunition which will be wanted at
the critical moments of the battle, and emboldens the enemy's troops by giving
them a contemptuous idea of the effects of our fire. Frederick the Great, in
his instructions on this subject, says:

It sometimes happens that the general in command, or some other general, is
himself forgetful, and orders the fire to be opened too soon, without
considering what injurious consequences may result from it. In such a case the
artillery officer must certainly obey, but he should fire as slowly as possible
and point the pieces with the utmost accuracy, in order that his shots may not
be thrown away. Such a fire is only pardonable when the general wishes to
attract the enemy's attention to one point so as to make movements in another.

But in such a case as this the object of the fire should be explained to the
artillery officer. Accuracy of fire is of more importance than quickness. The
fire should be slow while the enemy is at a distance, is to be quicker as the
distance diminishes, and is to become rapid when canister shot is being fired
at effective ranges. There are moments in which we should not fire, or only
very slowly, and others of a critical nature in which there should be no
question of saving of ammunition;
but the latter are only of short duration and do not lead to a lavish
expenditure, while the inefficient constant fire at long ranges always has that
effect. A careful record will be kept of the amount and kinds of ammunition
used.

7. After an engagement the commander of each battery must use all diligence in
putting it into a condition to march and to fight. He will replace disabled
horses, fill up his ammunition-chests, make whatever repairs his means will
permit, and, if necessary, reassign officers and men, so as to be ready for
service at the earliest possible moment. This will be done before he sleeps. He
will also present to the commander of the artillery brigade to which he belongs
a field return, showing the number of effective officers and men, of guns,
caissons, and horses, the amount of ammunition expended, and what he has on
hand after replenishing his chests. The field return will give the names of
officers killed and disabled, and those for duty, and will be made each night
of a battle lasting more than one day. The field returns of batteries will be
at once consolidated by the commander of the brigade, who will use all the
means at his disposal to complete the batteries for service. He will note his
action on the consolidated returns and transmit them to the chief of artillery
of the army for his information, and to enable him to provide at once for all
deficiencies. When a general action is fought the batteries should be refitted
and ready to take the field at dawn of the ensuing day, even with a reduced
number of guns.

8. As soon after the action as possible a general return of the losses of men
and material, and a separate report of the fight, will be presented to the
commanders of artillery brigades for transmittal to the chief of artillery. The
return should contain a specification of the men and horses killed and
disabled, giving the names of the killed and wounded officers and men and dates
of death; of whatever has been made unserviceable or has been expended, lost,
or damaged, distinguishing what has fallen into the hands of the enemy; and,
under the head of remarks, should call attention to all defects of material and
of ammunition noticed, and should suggest proper remedies. The report, which is
in addition to that required by the commander of the troops with which it
serves, should briefly describe the participation of the battery in the
engagement, as far as may be necessary for understanding the part taken by it;
the special instructions communicated; its position, with a statement of the
neighboring troops; the nature of the enemy's troops against which its fire was
directed; the distances of fire; the kind of projectiles used; the effect
remarked; the reasons why positions were changed; the behavior of the men, and,
without regard to rank, who distinguished himself; and, lastly, all important
circumstances observed in its neighborhood. If sections or half batteries were
detached, it is to be specified by whose order and for what purpose they were
so detached. Separate reports should be prepared by the commanders of pieces so
detached. They are to be annexed, in original, to the narrative of the
commander of the battery.

9. When more than one battery is engaged, the brigade commander should also
forward a general account of the operations of the artillery, mentioning
specially those who distinguished themselves. He will also consolidate and
tabulate the returns of losses of men and material of his corps.

10. Commanders of each brigade of artillery will see that the inspections
prescribed by the General Regulations, paragraph 104, are regularly made. He
will himself inspect each battery once in each month, and make a report of the
inspection in the prescribed printed form to
the chief of artillery of the army. The inspection will be made as early in the
month as practicable, and will extend to all the points embraced in the forms,
in which all blanks will be properly filled. This inspection report will
accompany the monthly return.

11. A monthly return of each battery, according to the form furnished from this
office, will be made on the first of each month to the brigade commander. The
returns of each corps will be consolidated, and the consolidated return sent to
the office of the chief of artillery. Should any battery be detached, so that
its returns are not received within three days by the brigade commander, he
will enter its name with the reasons for its absence in the column of remarks,
and forward the consolidated returns by the third of the month at latest. As
soon as the return is received from the absent battery, it will be forwarded to
the office of the chief of artillery, entered on the consolidated return, and
returned to the commandant. Requisitions for horses and ordnance stores will
also be transmitted with the monthly return. Except in cases of exigency, such
requisitions will be sent in at no other time.

12. Commandants of artillery will watch over and check the extravagant
expenditure of ordnance stores, and take the necessary measures to cause
instructions to be given regularly to officers and non-commissioned officers in
all their duties. A regular course of instruction for officers and
non-commissioned officers will be established whilst in winter quarters. These
recitations will embrace the tactics, orders, & c., in force, and also the
subject of ammunition, its description, and mode of preparation. Special
attention should be called to the study of Articles IV and V of the
Instructions for Field Artillery.

13. On marches no supplies or baggage whatever, except the knapsacks of
cannoneers, articles authorized by regulations, and, when circumstances
absolutely require it, two days' forage of grain and hay (twisted) will be
allowed on artillery carriages, nor will any article be placed on the spare
wheel. Brigade commanders will be responsible for the enforcement of this
order, and will in their respective commands cause all articles placed on
artillery carriages, contrary to this order, to be thrown off.

14. On level, goon roads, when it will not add sensibly to the labor of the
horses, a portion of the cannoneers, not to exceed two to the piece and four to
the caisson, may be allowed to ride, but no man shall be allowed to ride longer
than half an hour at a time. If the roads are bad or pass over rolling ground
no one shall, under any circumstances, be allowed to mount the chests, except
the artificers who work in camp, for whom the limber-chests of the forge and
battery wagon are reserved. Cannoneers may from time to time change places with
the drivers. The sick, unable to march, must be carried in ambulances, or as
may be otherwise provided. The chests will be mounted only by order of the
commander of the battery, or by his authority delegated to chiefs of section.
On approaching a hill the men so mounted will, without waiting for orders,
dismount. On the march batteries will never stop to water. It delays the column
behind them. The cannoneers will remain near their pieces, and when an obstacle
presents itself will be called to the front at once to remove it, fill up mud
holes, repair bridges, & c. An officer, or intelligent non-commissioned
officer, should always precede the column so far as to enable him to return and
notify the commandant of any obstructions. When it is probable that there will
be a delay of ten minutes or more the drivers should be dismounted and the pole
props let down. When, from any cause, a carriage on the
march is unable to proceed it will immediately be drawn out of the column, and
the carriages behind it will pass and close up, so as not to delay the
movement of the troops.

15. When not on the march, and battery drills are not practicable,
the battery horses will, when the weather permits, be exercised daily.

By command of Brigadier-General Hunt:
JNO. N. CRAIG, Assistant Adjutant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Numbers 42.} Washington, February 2, 1864.

The following regulations for the care of field-works and the government of
their garrisons, prepared by Brigadier-General Barry, inspector of artillery,
U. S. Army, are published for the government of all concerned:

1. It is the duty of the commanding officer of each work to provide for the
care of the armament and the safety and serviceable condition of the magazines,
ammunition, implements, and equipments; and by frequent personal inspections to
secure the observance of the rules prescribed for this purpose.

2. The fixed armament, consisting of the heavy guns and those the positions of
which are prescribed, will be numbered in a regular series, commencing with the
first gun on the right of the entrance of the main gate. Where there are
platforms temporarily unoccupied by guns they will be numbered in the regular
series. The ammunition will be kept in the magazines, with the exception of a
few stand of grape, canister, and solid shot, which will be piled near the
guns.

3. The gun carriages will be kept clean and all axles and journals well
lubricated. They will be traversed daily, and never be allowed to rest for two
successive days on the same part of the traverse circle. If the gun carriage
does not move easily on the chassis the tongue will be occasionally greased.
The upper carriage should not rest habitually on the same part of the chassis.

4. The elevating screw and its box will be kept clean and well greased. When
the guns are not in use the screw will be run down as far as it will go, the
breech of the piece being first raised until the muzzle is sufficiently
depressed to prevent water running into it, and kept in that position by a
wooden quoin or block. The tompion should be kept in the muzzle and the apron
over the vent.

5. The piece is not to be kept habitually loaded. It will be time to load when
the enemy appears, or when special orders to that effect are given.

6. The commanding officer will see that a shed is constructed for the
implements and equipments. For each drill these will be issued to the gunners
by the ordnance sergeant, or other non- commissioned officer acting as such,
who will receive and put them away after the drill is over, and be at all times
responsible to the commanding officer for their safety and serviceable
condition, and that the supply is adequate. When sheds cannot be provided, the
implements will be kept near the pieces or in the bombproof. The equipments
(haversacks, tube pouch, & c.) may be kept at the entrance of the magazine,
where they will be sheltered. Platforms for projectiles will be laid near the guns; for
canisters, a couple of pieces of scantling for skids will answer. A watershed,
made by joining two boards together at the edges, should be placed over them.
When the wooden sabots become wet they swell and burst the canisters, so that
they cannot be put into the gun. When this happens dry the sabot until it
shrinks sufficiently for the canister edges to be brought together and tacked.

7. When not supplied by the Engineer Department materials for constructing the
sheds and for skidding will be furnished by the Quartermaster"s Department, on
requisitions made to the Chief of Artillery.

8. The magazines must be frequently aired in dry weather. For this purpose the
ventilators and doors must be opened after 9 a. m., and must be closed at
latest two hours before sunset. The ammunition for different classes of guns
will be carefully assorted, and the shelves, boxes, or barrels containing each
kind plainly marked. When there is more than one magazine the ammunition will
be so distributed as to be near to the particular guns for which it is
provided. Cartridges must be moved, and, if necessary, rolled once a week to
prevent caking of the powder. In doing this care must be taken not to pulverize
the grains. Friction-primers must be kept in the tin packing boxes and
carefully protected from moisture. They will be frequently examined and dried
by exposure to the sun. This must always be done immediately after wet weather
of long continuance. The supply of friction-primers for each gun must be 50 per
cent. greater than the number of rounds of ammunition provided for it. A dozen
primers will always be kept in the tube pouches in use at each gun. Three
lanyards will be provided for each gun, one of which will be kept in store, the
other two in the tube pouches. As soon as received the hooks will be tested to
see if they are sufficiently small to enter the eye of the primer, and yet
strong enough for use.

9. In order that practice may be had in the use of friction- primers, authority
is given to expend on drill five per gun each month. These primers will always
be taken from those longest at the post.

10. There should be one lantern for every three or four guns, and two good
globe lanterns for each magazine.

11. No person will be allowed to enter the magazine except on duty, and then
every precaution against accidents will be taken. Lights must always be in
glass lanterns, and carried only by the person in charge of the magazine.
Swords, pistols, canes, spurs, & c., will not be admitted, no matter what may
be the rank of the person carrying them. Socks or moccasins will be worn, if
they can be procured; if they cannot, then all persons must enter with
stocking-feet. No fire or smoking will be allowed in the vicinity when the
doors or ventilators are open. Too many precautions cannot possibly be taken to
avoid the chances of an explosion.

A copy of this paragraph, legibly written, will be conspicuously posted near or
on the door of every magazine.

12. Companies will be assigned to guns in such proportions as will furnish at
least two, preferably three, reliefs in working them, and sufficient men in
addition for supplying ammunition from the magazines. From fifteen to twenty
men should therefore be assigned to each gun and instructed in its use.
Companies should habitually serve the same guns, each man being assigned a
special number at the gun, and thoroughly instructed in all its duties. As
occasion offers, all of the officers and enlisted men should be instructed at
each of the different kinds of gun at the post, as well as in the duties of all the
numbers at each gun. Every night at retreat or tattoo the men who are to man
the guns in case of a night attack should be paraded at their pieces and
inspected, to see that all their equipments, implements, and ammunition are in
good order, and the guns in serviceable condition and easy working order. The
men so stationed should "call off" their numbers before being dismissed. In
case of alarm at night all should repair at once to their posts, equip
themselves, and await orders, without losing time by forming upon their company
or battalion parade grounds.

13. Each gun should be under charge of a non-commissioned officer, and to every
two or three guns should be assigned a lieutenant, who will be responsible to
the captain for their serviceable condition at all times. The captain will be
responsible to the commanding officer for the condition of the pieces and the
instruction of the men of his company. Artillery drills will be frequent until
all of the men are well instructed, and there will never be less than one
artillery drill per day when the weather will permit, nor will any officer be
excused from these drills unless it is unavoidable. For action, all the
cannoneers not actually serving the guns will be provided with muskets, and
will be stationed near the guns to which they belong, for service on the
banquettes or elsewhere, in case of assaults.

14. Each company should be supplied with three copies of the Tactics for Heavy
Artillery, and rigidly adhere to its directions. Tables of ranges will be found
in the work. One copy of Instructions for Field Artillery should be supplied to
each company. All authorized books can be obtained on written application to
the chief of artillery, who will obtain them from the Adjutant-General of the
Army. The books so drawn are the property of the United States for the use of
the company, and will be accounted for on the muster-rolls.

15. The commanding officer will make himself conversant with the approaches to
his work, the distance to each prominent point commanded by his guns, the
nature of the ground between them and his post, and the most probable points of
attack upon it. He will also make it his duty to see that all of his officers,
and, as far as possible, his non-commissioned officers, are thoroughly
acquainted with these matters. The distances will be ascertained by actual
measurement and not left to conjecture. Tables of ranges or distances for each
point, and the corresponding elevation, according to the nature of the
projectile, with the proper length or time of the fuse, when shell or case-shot
are used, will be made out for each gun and furnished to the officer and
non-commissioned officers serving it. These tables should be painted upon
boards and securely fastened in a conspicuous place near the gunn. As these
tables differ for different kinds of gun, the same men should be permanently
assigned to the same piece.

16. The projectiles should be used in their proper order. At a distance, solid
shot; then, shells or case-shot, especially if firing at troops in line;
canister or grape is for use only at short ranges. When columns are approaching
so that they can be taken in direction of their length, or very obliquely,
solid shot is generally the best projectile, because of its greater accuracy
and penetrating power. If the column consists of cavalry, some shells or
case-shot will be useful, from the disorder their bursting produces among the
horses; but shells and case-shot should not be used against any troops when
moving rapidly.
The absolute distances at which the projectiles can be used with effect vary
with the description and caliber of the gun, and can be ascertained only by
consulting the tables of ranges. The prominent points on the approaches to the
works should be designated, their distances noted, and directions drawn up for
the different kinds of ammunition to be used at each gun for these different
points. During the drills the attention of the chief of pieces and gunners
should be frequently drawn to this subject.

17. Commanding officers will pay special attention to the police and
preservation of the works. All filth will be promptly removed and the drainage
particularly attended to. No one should be allowed to walk on the parapets, or
move or sit upon the gabions, barrels, or sand-bags that may be placed upon
them. When injuries occur to the earth-works they should be repaired as quickly
as possible by the garrison of the work. If of a serious nature, they should be
at once reported to the engineer officer in charge of the work. All injuries to
the magazines or platforms of the guns will be promptly reported as soon as
observed. The abatis, being a most important portion of the work, must be
always well looked to and kept in perfect order.

18. Special written or printed instructions as to the supply of ammunition at
the different posts, and the proportion for the different classes of guns, will
be furnished by the chief of artillery to the commanders of posts. Instructions
will also be furnished as to the special objects of each work, on proper
application for this purpose to the chief engineer or chief of artillery.

19. No persion not officially connected with the garrisons of the field-works
will be allowed to enter them, except such as visit them on duty, or who have
passes signed by competent authority; nor will any person except commissioned
officers, or those whose duty requires them to do so, be allowed to enter the
magazines, or touch the guns, their implements, or equipments.

20. The garrison can greatly improve the work by sodding the slopes of the
parapet, and those of the ramps and banquettes, or by sowing grass seed on the
superior slope, first covering it with surface soil. The grass-covered or
sodded portions of the parapets, traverses, magazines, & c., should be
occasionally watered in dry weather and the grass be kept closely cut. Early in
the spring and late in the autumn they should be covered with manure.

21. As a great deal of powder is wasted in unnecessary salutes, attention is
called to paragraph 268 of Army Regulations, edition of 1861-1863:

268. A general officer will be saluted but once in a year at each post, and
only when notice of his intention to visit the post has been given.

22. The practice of building fires on the open parades, for cooking and other
purposes, is prohibited, as it endangers the magazines.

23. The armament of a fort having been once established, will not be changed
except by authority of the commander of the district, geographical department,
or army corps, and then only on consultation with the chiefs of engineers and
artillery.

24. The machinery of the Whitworth, or other breech-loading guns, will not be
used except by special orders from the commanding officer of the post.

25. Experience having conclusively shown that rifled guns, of large caliber
especially must be subjected to most careful treatment and skillful management
in order to secure their maximum efficiency, both in range and penetration, and
especially their maximum endurance, the attention of all officers using rifled guns
of large calibers is called to the following rules: Sponges well saturated with oil shall
alone be used; and for this purpose the necessary supply of oil shall be provided for
all batteries of position in which rifled guns form the part or whole of its armament. A
little grease or slush upon the base of the projectile adds much to its certainty, and
should be always used when possible. The bores of the guns should be washed,
and the grooves cleaned of all residuum and dirt subsequent to the firing,
after the guns has cooled. Great care must be taken to send the projectile home
in loading, that no space may be left between the projectile and the cartridge.

Before using shells, unless already loaded and fused, they must be carefully
inspected both on their exterior and interior, and scrapers should be used to
clear the cavity of all molding sand before charging the shell. Special
attentionn should be given to the insertion of the fuses, and the threads of
the fuse-hole should be carefully cleaned before screwing in the fuse. In all
Parrott projectiles it should be carefully observed that the brass ring or cup
is properly wedged, and that, in the case of the ring, the cavities between it
and the projectile are not clogged with dirt or sand.

In loading shells care will be taken to fill them entirely with powder, leaving
no vacant space after the fuse is screwed in.

For the 10,20, and 30 pounder Parrott guns powder of too large a grain should
not be used. The best powder for the projecting charge of these guns is what is
called "mortar powder."

26. Pole-straps and pole-pads of field limbers, not belonging to horses
batteries, are to be kept in the implement room or in the trays of the limber
chest. They should be occasionally washed and oiled, as prescribed for the care
of harness in Field Artillery Tactics.

27. The forts will be inspected daily by their commanding officers; and by the
brigade, division, district, or department commanders, and by the chief of
artillery, as frequently as possible. Particular attention will be paid at all
inspections to the drill and discipline of the garrison and police of the work;
to the condition of the armament, ammunition, and magazines, and as to whether
the proper supply of ammunition, implements, & c., is on hand at the post.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR FIRING.

1. The firing in action should be deliberate - never more than will admit of
accurate pointing. A few shots effectively thrown is

better than a large number badly directed. The object in killing is to inspire
terror so as to deter or drive off the enemy, and precision of fire and
consequent certainty of execution is infinitely more important in effecting
this than a great noise, rapid firing, and less proportional execution.

2. To secure accuracy of fire the ground in the neighborhood must be well
examined, and the distance to the different prominent points within the fields
covered by each gun measured and noted.

The gunners and cannoneers should be informed of these distances, and in the
drills the guns should be accurately pointed at the objects noted in
succession, the gunner designating it, calling the distance in yards, and the
corresponding elevation in minutes and degrees, until all the distances and
corresponding elevation are familiar to the men.

When hollow projectiles are used the time of flight corresponding to the
distance must be given to the man who goes for the projectile. He tells the
ordnance sergeant, or the man who furnishes the ammunition, and the latter cuts
the fuse to burn the required time.

3. The gunner is responsible for the aiming. He must therefore know the
distance to each prominent object in the field covered by his gun, the
elevation required to reach that point, and the time of flight of the shell or
case-shot corresponding to each distance or elevation. He must have a table of
these ranges, taken from the Heavy Artillery Tactics, pages 236 to 247 (edition
of 1862).

4. These tables will be promptly prepared under the direction of the commanding
officer, and copies furnished for each gun and used habitually in the drills.
They will be examined and verified by the chief of artillery.

5. The attention of all officers in charge of artillery in the works is
directed to the articles in the Tactics on "Pointing guns and howitzers,"
"Night firing," & c., pages 76 to 90.

6. Commanding officers of the works will keep themselves accurately informed of
the amount and kinds of ammunition in the magazines. The supply must always be
kept up to the amount prescribed by the chief of artillery or other competent
authority. When it is less than that amount a special report of the fact will
be made to the chief of artillery, with requisitions for the ammunition
necessary to complete the supply. Commanding officers will also see that the
necessary equipments are always on hand for the service of all the guns, as
prescribed in the tactics or in general orders.

7. Hand grenades are intended to be used against the enemy when he has reached
such parts of the defenses (the bottom of the ditch, for example) as are not
covered by the guns or by the muskets of the infantry posted on the banquettes.

8. After the enemy has passed the abatis and jumped into the ditch hand
grenades will be used; and then if he mounts the parapet he must be met there
with muskets.

The cartridges for the 24-pounder guns all weigh six pounds, as issued in the
Defenses of Washington. The table (p. 236) therefore applies as follows:

Twenty-four pounder gun on siege or barbette carriage.

Pounds....... deg" .......... Yards.

...6............. 0..0 ............ 412
That is, the bore being level, a range of 400 yards.

...6.............1..0 ..............842
1 degree elevation, range about 850 yards.

...6.............1..30 ........... 953
1 1/2 degrees elevation, range about 950 yards.

...6.............2..0 ............1,147
2 degrees elevation, range about 1,150 yards.

...6.............3..0 ............1,417
3 degrees elevation, range about 1,400 yards.

...6.............4..0 ............1,666
4 degrees elevation, range about 1,660 yards.

...6.............5..0 ............1,901
5 degrees elevation, range about 1,900 yards,
the extreme range of 24-pounder round-shot.

Thus, supposing the enemy at a point 1,000 yards distant, by looking at the
table it will be observed that 950 yards require 1^30" elevation; 1,150 yards
require 2^; therefore, elevate a very little - 5" to 10" over 1^30", or simply
give 1^30" full.

assault must also be made by posting men with muskets so as to fire over the
tops of traverses, bombproof, or magazines.

By command of Major-General Halleck:
E. D. TOWNSEND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS, ARTY. HDQRS., ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
No.5. } April 11, 1864.

1. For the campaign, the knapsack carried on the ammunition chest will not
contain more than the following-named articles: One-half shelter-tent, one wool
blanket, one poncho, one jacket or blouse, one pair drawers, two pair
stockings, two shirts, one pair trousers. The excess of the kits over these
articles will be carried by the owner, and the amount of clothing to be packed
in the knapsacks may be reduced at the discretion of the brigade commander. The
great coat will be carried by the owner.

2. Haversacks and canteens will not be carried on the carriages; they must be
carried by the men.

3. Not more than four knapsacks will be transported on the gun carriage,
battery wagon and forge, and not more than eight on the caisson. The excess of
the number of knapsacks must be carried by the men, or their transportation
otherwise provided for.

4. The knapsacks and paulins must be so packed and arranged as to offer no
impediment to the service of the guns, or to the prompt procurement of
ammunition.

5. The gunner and chief of caisson will, under direction of the chief of the
piece, be responsible for the proper loading of these articles on their
respective carriages, and that no more than the number allowed are carried. The
excess will be thrown off on the road, the knapsacks of the gunner and chief of
caisson being the first to be thrown away.

6. In packing the limbers the knapsacks must be packed as closely as possible
to the chests, so as not to throw the weight on the pole.

7. The loading of the forage wagons, of which three are allowed to each
battery, must be strictly attended to, and the battery commanders and brigade
quartermasters will each, when the wagons are under his charge, be responsible
that these wagons are loaded with forage exclusively.

8. The full weight of forage must be secured. as the campaign allowance of ten
pounds a day is the minimum on which a horse can do his work. The minimum load
to start with is 2,760 pounds of grain, being six days' supply for the wagon
teams and two days' supply for the battery horses. If the roads are good, this
load may be increased to 3,220 pounds, which will give seven days' forage for
the battery horses and forage wagon teams. The other wagons, ambulances, & c.,
carry the forage for their own teams.

9. In drawing forage from the depot, care must be taken that the full weight of
grain is obtained. The quartermaster who receipts for the forage is responsible
for this, and must take the necessary measures to secure the full amount he
receipts for. If unable to get it, he will promptly report the cause to his
commanding officer, and in time to rectify it. No subsequent excuse will be
received.

10. In no case will any grain be carried on the artillery carriages until the
forage wagons are loaded with seven days' supply. When the wagons cannot carry
this amount any forage on the artillery carriages would overload them.

11. When a battery is separated from its brigade and wagons, one days' forage
may be carried on the carriages, viz, one bag on each carriage, to be packed so
as not to throw its weight on the pole. In feeding it out, the heaviest
carriage to be first unloaded.

12. Forage wagons should not be separated from their batteries when it is
possible to avoid it, except when the brigade marches together, when the wagons
may be with the brigade train, but ready to be detached with their batteries at
a moment's warning. Should it be necessary to send the forage wagons to the
rear, or leave them behind with the trains when the batteries move, it will be
so stated specially in the order and instructions given for the supply of
forage from day to day. As the packing of grain on horses injures the latter,
one forage wagon should, if possible, always accompany each battery.

13. Great care must be taken in feeding. To feed from the ground occasions
great waste, and the dirt eaten by the horses with it is injurious. In the
absence of nose-bags horses must be fed from boxes, or cloths, or by hand. The
grain left in the nose-bag or otherwise by the horse, must be collected and fed
to him, if necessary, by hand.

14. Battery commanders should frequently allow their batteries to pass them on
the march, carefully inspecting the horses, carriages, and men. The same rule
is applicable to chiefs of sections and of pieces in their respective commands,
in order to enforce the observance of all orders.

15. The drivers must not be allowed to lounge, to cross their legs over the
horses' necks, or to needlessly punish them. The cannoneers must be kept at
their posts or opposite them on the side of the road, and no straggling will be
permitted. They are liable to be called on at any moment, either for service or
to aid in getting the carriages through difficult places.

16. Special attention is called to paragraph 13 and following of General
Orders, Numbers 2, of January 15, 1864, from these headquarters, respecting the
loading of the artillery carriages and watering the horses on the march.*

By command of Brigadier-General Hunt:
JNO. N. CRAIG, Assistant Adjutant-General.

Report of Brigadier General Henry J. Hunt, U. S. Army, Chief of Artillery.
ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS,
October 31. 1864.

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the artillery of this army during the present campaign, commencing May 4, 1864,
and ending October 31, 1864:

On May 4, the artillery was distributed, organized, and commanded as follows:
The artillery of the Second Army Corps (Major-General Hancock) consisted of
nine batteries of six guns each, or thirty Napoleons (light 12-pounders), and
twenty-four 3-inch rifled ordnance guns, 46 officers, 1,395 enlisted men, and
1,095 horses, and of one battalion (Lieutenant-Colonel Allcock's) of the Fourth
New York Foot Artillery, 19 officers and 517 men. The whole constituted a
brigade, under the command of Colonel J. C. Tidball, Fourth New York Foot
Artillery.

BATTERIES OF THE SECOND CORPS.
Napoleons
Brown's (B), 1st Rhode Island................ 6
Ames' (G), 1st New York...................... 6
Gilliss' (C and I) 5th United States.......... 6
Roder's (K), 4th, United States.............. 6
Dow's, 6th Maine.................................. 6

3-inch.
Arnold's (A), 1st Rhode Island............... 6
Sleeper's 10th Massachusetts................. 6
Ricketts' (F), 1st Pennsylvania................ 6
Edgell's (A), 1st New Hampshire........... 6

The artillery of the Fifth Army Corps (Major-General Warren) consisted of eight
batteries of six guns each, or twenty-four Napoleons, eighteen 3-inch ordnance,
and six 10-pounder Parrott guns, 44 officers, and 1,470 enlisted men, and 914
horses; and of one battalion (Major Arthur's) Fourth New York Foot Artillery,
12 officers, 432 men, constituting a brigade, under the command of Colonel C.
S. Wainwright, First New York Light Artillery.

BATTERIES OF THE FIFTH CORPS.

Stewart's (B), 4th United States, 6 Napoleons.
Winslow's (D), 1st New York, 6 Napoleons.
Mink's (H), 1st New York, 6 Napoleons.
Martin's (C), Massachusetts, 6 Napoleons.
Rittenhouse's (D), 5th United States, 6 Parrotts
Phillips' (E), Massachusetts, 6 3-inch.
Reynolds' (E and L), 1st New York, 6 3-inch.
Cooper's (B), 1st Pennsylvania, 6 3-inch.

The artillery of the Sixth Army Corps (Major-General Sedgwick), consisted of
eight batteries of six guns each, twenty-four Napoleons, eighteen 3-inch
ordnance, and six 10-pounder Parrott guns, 55 officers, 1,170 men, and 915
horses, and of one battalion (Sears') Fourth New York Foot Artillery, 15
officers, 517 men, constituting a brigade under the command of Colonel C. H.
Tompkins, First Rhode Island Light Artillery.

BATTERIES OF THE SIXTH CORPS.

McKnight's (M), 5th United States, 6 Napoleons.
McCartney's (A), Massachusetts, 6 Napoleons.
Bucklyn's (E), 1st Rhode Island, 6 Napoleons.
Harn's, 3rd New York, 6 Napoleons.
Robinson's, 4th Maine, 6 3-inch.
Adams' (G), 1st Rhode Island, 6 3-inch.
Cowan's, 1st New York Independent, 6 3-inch.
Waterman's (C), 1st Rhode Island, 6 Parrotts.

The Horse Artillery, twelve batteries, sixteen Napoleons and forty-six 3-inch
ordnance guns, 43 officers, 1,714 men, and 2,064 horses, was organized into two
brigades. The First Brigade, under the command of Captain James M. Robertson,
Second U. S. Artillery, consisted of six batteries, eight Napoleons and
twenty-four 3-inch guns, and was attached to the Cavalry Corps (Major-General
Sheridan). The Second Brigade, under the command of Captain Dunbar R. Ransom,
Third U. S. Artillery, consisted of six batteries, eight Napoleons, and
twenty-two 3-inch ordnance guns, and was held in reserve and attached to the
Reserve Artillery of the army.

BATTERIES OF HORSE ARTILLERY.

First Brigade,
Captain Robertson.

Williston's (D), 2nd United States, 4 Napoleons.
King's (A), 4th United States, 4 Napoleons.
Heaton's (B and L), 2nd United States, 6 3-inch.
Fitzhugh's (C and E), 4th United States, 6 3-inch.
Martin's, 6th New York, 6 3-inch.
Pennington's (M), 2nd United States, 6 3-inch.

Second Brigade,
Captain Ransom.

Randol's (H and I), 1st United States, 4 Napoleons.
Dennison's (G), 2nd United States, 4 Napoleons.
Porter's (E and G), 1st United States, 4 3-inch.
Egan's (K), 1st United States, 6 3-inch.
Clarke's (A), 2nd United States, 6 3-inch.
Kelly's (C, F, and K), 3rd United States, 6 3-inch.

The Reserve Artillery, under the command of Colonel H. S. Burton, Fifth U. S.
Artillery, consisted of two regiments of foot artillery, the Sixth New York,
Colonel J. Howard Kitching; the Fifteenth New York, Colonel L. Schirmer,
twelve batteries of field artillery, twenty-six Napoleons, eighteen 3-inch,
and twelve 10-pounder and six 20-pounder Parrotts, and of eight 24-pounder
Coehorn mortars. The troops of the reserve were organized into three brigades.
The first, under the command of Colonel J. Howard Kitching, Sixth New York
Artillery, consisted of the Sixth and Fifteenth New York Regiments, six
battalions of foot artillery armed as infantry, 84 officers, 84 officers, and
2,901 men. This brigade formed the escort and furnished the guards
for the reserve and the park attached to it, and was at all times disposable as
a reserve and to re-enforce the corps in battle. In this way it did valuable
service, taking its full share of the marching and fighting of the army in
addition to its special duties. The Second Brigade consisted of six batteries,
six 20-pounder Parrotts, twelve 10-pounder Parrotts, four 3-inch ordnance and
ten Napoleon guns, 33 officers, 837 men, and 647 horses, under the command of
Major J. A. Tompkins, First Rhode Island Artillery. The Third Brigade
consisted of six batteries, sixteen Napoleons, and fourteen 3-inch ordnance
guns, 24 officers, 734 men, and 604 horses, under the command of Major R. H.
Fitzhugh, First New York Light Artillery. The eight 24-pounder Coehorn mortars
with 100 rounds each of ammunition were served by a detachment of Fifteenth New
York Foot Artillery.

BATTERIES OF THE ARTILLERY RESERVE.
Second Brigade, Major J. A. Tompkins.

Taft's, 5th New York, 6 20-pounder Parrotts.
Hexamer's (A), 1st New Jersey, 6 10-pounder Parrotts.
Sheldon's (B), 1st New York, 6 10-pounder Parrotts.
Clark's (B), 1st New Jersey, 6 Napoleons.
Stevens', 5th Maine, 4 Napoleons.
McKnight's, 12th New York, 4 3-inch.
Third Brigade, Major R. H. Fitzhugh.
Ewing's (H), 1st Ohio, 6 3-inch.
Burton's, 11th New York, 4 3-inch.
Barnes' (C), 1st New York, 4 3-inch.
Brinckle's (E), 5th United States, 6 Napoleons.
Hart's, 15th New York, 4 Napoleons.
Bigelow's, 9th Massachusetts, 6 Napoleons.

SUPPLY OF AMMUNITION.

Each Napoleon gun and 20-pounder Parrott transported in the chests of the piece
and caisson 128 rounds of ammunition, and each other rifle gun 200 rounds,
excepting the rifle guns of the Horse Artillery, which had 150 rounds in the
chests. The campaign allowance for each gun having been fixed at 250 rounds,
there was assigned to each brigade a special ammunition column of ordinary
wagons to transport the remainder, which formed in each brigade a reserve for
supply of all its batteries. In addition 20 rounds per gun for each gun in the
army was carried with the army was 270 rounds per gun. Thus the artillery with
the army at the commencement of the campaign consisted of forty-nine batteries,
with 274 field guns, of which 120 were 12-pounder Napoleons (smooth-bore) and
154 rifled; 8 Coehorn mortars, 657 artillery carriages, including caissons,
battery wagons, and forges; 373 officers, 11,691 men, 6,239 horses, besides 609
wagons and 3,721 animals, for the transport of the ammunition, &c. It formed
eight brigades, four of which constituted the reserve under my immediate
command, the other four being attached to army corps. The batteries had been
carefully and diligently instructed by their commanders, under the supervision
of the chiefs of artillery while in their winter camps, and were well manned,
horsed, and equipped. At no time, indeed, had the artillery of this army as a
whole been in so good condition as when it entered upon this campaign. Its
principal defects were, first, a want of general and field officers, a subject
to which I called attention in my report of the battles of Fredericksburg,
Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg; and, second, of a code of regulations
for its government which should be binding on all branches of the service.
These defects have injured its efficiency and usefulness to the prejudice of its reputation,
caused a misapplication of its powers, and added to its cost, but they are defects for
which the artillery itself is not responsible.

On the 4th of May the army broke up its camps near Culpeper Court-House and
crossed the Rapidan, the artillery brigades attached to troops following their
respective corps. The Reserve Artillery, under the command of Colonel Burton,
crossed the river with its trains and stores at Ely's Ford, pushed beyond
Hunting Creek, and camped near Chancellorsville. On the 5th, it followed the
Second Corps to near the Furnaces, but was ordered back to Hawkins' Church, at
the intersection of the Chancellorsville plank road with the Old Wilderness
turnpike, where it remained during the battle of the Wilderness. At daybreak of
the 6th, Kitching's brigade of foot artillery reported by my order to
Major-General Warren near the Lacy house, with all its available men, including
the guards of the trains, &c., and went into action with General Wadsworth's
division. On the 7th, it was employed in throwing up intrenchments in General
Warren's front. On the same day, in consequence of a report that a body of the
enemy's troops, including infantry, were marching down the Rapidan, a battery
of the Reserve was ordered to Ely's Ford for the protection of the trains there
and to cover the ford. That afternoon the Reserve Artillery marched to Piney
Branch Church, which place it reached on the morning of the 8th, when
Kitching's brigade of foot artillery was ordered to report to Major-General
Hancock, at Todd's Tavern. General Hancock ordered it back to the Reserve the
same night and again called for it the next morning. From this time this
brigade was marched to and for from one corps to another, being always either
in action or on the march until it was finally, on the breaking up of the
Reserve, attached to the Fifth Corps, Major-General Warren. From the 8th to the
16th the Coehorn mortars were employed wherever circumstances would permit of
their use, and always with good results, and the caissons of the Reserve
batteries kept up the supply of ammunition to the corps batteries in action.
The Reserve itself moved its position from day to day, being generally encamped
between the trains and the army, furnishing guards for the trains and pieces to
command the roads and approaches, and for the defense of Fredericksburg. On the
16th, the Reserve was by superior orders broken up, and the batteries composing
it ordered to Washington. In ordered to retain the organizations, men and
material, in this army, the reduction of guns contemplated was, upon my
recommendation, effected by reducing each mounted battery in the army to four
guns, retaining the extra caissons and ordering the surplus guns and Taft's
battery to Washington. This battery being engaged in the battle of Spotsylvania
Court-House did not leave for Washington until the night of the 18th.

Colonel Burton, commanding the Reserve, was ordered to report to the commanding
general as inspector of artillery on his staff; the field officers, with the
exception of Lieutenant-Colonel McGilvery, assigned to the artillery brigades
of the corps, and the different staffs dissolved. The ammunition train remained
under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel McGilvery, as a distinct organization,
with one battalion of the Fifteenth New York Foot Artillery. This guard was
subsequently reduces to one company. The Reserve Artillery of this
army was organized in the autumn and winter of 1861 and 1862, and the
experience of many campaigns has proved its great value. Its records prove that
on the field it has done its full share of the fighting and borne its due
proportion of the losses of the artillery, while it has rendered other and
fully as important services. At many of our principal battles, notably at
Malvern Hill and Antietam, its ammunition trains supplies the batteries of the
divisions, many of which would otherwise have been rendered useless. Whenever,
from the character of the ground or from other circumstances, the ordinary
amount of artillery attached to troops proved insufficient, it has supplied the
deficiency. Its batteries in all our great battles have always gone into action
at critical moments, and almost invariably every guns has been called for and
employed. Especially was this the case at Malvern, Antietam, Fredericksburg,
and Gettysburg. It has also been of great value in another way. Batteries in
the corps losing their efficiency either from the want of men or material, the
incompetency of their officers or casualties of battle, have been at once
replaced from the Reserve, thus keeping the army corps fully effective and
giving the broken-down batteries the necessary opportunity and supervision to
restore them. In this way the Reserve Artillery has kept up the efficiency of
the whole army. I have considered this notice of the Reserve Artillery as
necessary under the circumstances in order to guard against the inferences
which might be drawn from the order to break it up. The inconveniences that
have since been felt from the want of it, the order to return the guns to the
batteries, now being executed, and the fact that it has been found necessary to
keep up the reality, without the proper organization of the Reserve, in order
to insure supplies of ammunition to the army and to furnish a place for surplus
unattached and disabled batteries, has clearly vindicated the principle of the
necessity of such an organization in a large army. The mounted batteries of the
Reserve Artillery were transferred to the corps, giving each of the three corps
twelve batteries of four guns each. Major Hazard was assigned to the Second,
Major Fitzhugh to the Fifth, Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe to the Sixth Corps.

To the Second Corps: Clark's (B), First New Jersey, four Napoleons; McKnight's,
Twelfth New York, four 3-inch; Burton's, Eleventh New York, four 3-inch.

To the Fifth Corps: Bigelow's, Ninth Massachusetts, four Napoleons; Hart's,
Fifteenth New York, four Napoleons; Sheldon's (B), First New York, four
Parrotts; Barnes' (C), First New York, four 3-inch.

To the Sixth Corps: Brinckle's (E), Fifth United States, four Napoleons;
Stevens', Fifth Maine, four Napoleons; Hexamor's (A), First New Jersey, four
Parrotts; Ewing's (H), First Ohio, four 3-inch.

On the afternoon of May 19, near Spotsylvania, Court-House, an attack was made
by Ewell's corps on Tyler's division of foot artillery. By direction of
Major-General Meade, I ordered two batteries each of the Second and Sixth Corps
to the point of attack and took the direction of the artillery in person, the
batteries of the Fifth Corps being under the direction of Major Fitzhugh and
those of the Second under Colonel Tidball. After a sharp action, in which the
batteries rendered good service, the enemy was repulsed.

On the 28th of May, the Ninth Corps having been assigned to the Army of the
Potomac, the nine batteries belonging to its divisions (the Reserve Artillery
of the corps having been ordered to Belle Plain, and subsequently to Washington)
were reported to me. There was no brigade or distinct administrative organization
for the artillery of the corps, and the trains of the other corps and of the reserve
park were put in requisition to supply them.

BATTERIES OF THE NINTH CORPS.

Eaton's, 27th New York, 6 Napoleons.
Rogers', 19th New York, 6 Napoleons.
Twitchell's, 7th Maine, 6 Napoleons.
Wright's, 14th Massachusetts, 4 3-inch.
Thomas', 2nd Maine, 4 3-inch.
Jones', 11th Massachusetts, 4 3-inch.
Roemer's, 34th New York, 4 3-inch.
Durell's, (D), Pennsylvania, 4 3-inch.
Start's, 3rd Vermont, 4 3-inch.

On the 30th, Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe was assigned to the command of the
artillery of the corps, the rifle batteries were reduced to four guns each, and
immediate measures taken to procure horses, ammunition, &c. The batteries were
soon put in good condition and consisted of eighteen Napoleons and twenty-four
rifles.
On the 31st of May, in obedience to instructions form Major-General Meade, the
Horse Artillery was reorganized, reduced to eight batteries of four guns each,
one section consisting of Napoleons and one of 3-inch guns, and formed into a
single brigade.

HORSE ARTILLERY BRIGADE,

Captain J. M. Robertson: Egan's (K), First United States; Randol's (H and I),
First United States; Clarke's (A), Second United States; Heaton's (B and L),
Second United States; Williston's (D), Second United States; Pennington's (M),
Second United States; Kelly's (C, F, and K), Third United States; Fitzhugh's (C
and E), Fourth United States.

The reorganization was effected by Captain J. M. Robertson, under instructions
from these headquarters, and when completed the brigade reported to
Major-General Sheridan, commanding the Cavalry Corps, for duty. The remaining
batteries of Horse Artillery, viz, Porter's, (E and G), First United States;
Dennison's (G), Second United States; King's (A), Fourth United States; and
Martin's, Sixth New York Independent, after turning over their serviceable
artillery horses and transportation for the use of this army, were ordered to
Washington, to report to Brigadier-General Howe, inspector-general of
artillery. On the 2nd and 3rd of June, at the battle of Cold Harbor, several
batteries were detailed from the Second and Sixth Corps for service with the
Eighteenth, and a large quantity of ammunition drawn from our reserves and
batteries for the supply of those of the Eighteenth Corps. June 6, in
consequence of the good service rendered by the Coehorn mortars, and their
demonstrated usefulness, six were ordered for permanent assignment to each
corps d'armee.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier General , Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac.

Extracts from Journal of:
Brigadier General Henry J. Hunt, Chief of Artillery.

May 5, 1864.-Left camp about 5.45 a. m. At 7.40 a. m., when near General
Warren's headquarters, received information that the enemy were coming
down the Orange pike and forming line in front of General Griffin's division;
that large clouds of dust were hanging over the road.
General Wilson's [cavalry] reported not on the pike, as according to General
Humphreys they were ordered to be; 8.40 a. m., sent orders to Colonel Burton;
4.10 p. m., General Hancock's attack commenced, judging from the report of
infantry and artillery; 7 p. m., ordered the brigade of artillery reserve,
Colonel Kitching, to be sent up by daylight to-morrow to join the attack on the
enemy. Two guns lost from Winslow's battery. They were pushed out (and so far
as I can learn, a very proper risk) by General Griffin. The troops on their
left were driven in. The enemy came behind them from their right; the officers
and men mostly killed or captured. The guns laying near our line on the 6th
would have been withdrawn by Colonel Wainwright, who had orders for the purpose
in the night, but for the report that General Griffin had fallen back early in
the evening. General Griffin did not fall back until late at night. Did not inform
Colonel Wainwright in time and did not himself recover the guns.

May 6.-3.15 a. m., an officer from Colonel Kitching reports to me the brigade
of foot artillery is on the way up, ordered to report to General Warren; 8 a.
m., examined ground designated by General Griffin for a large battery. General
Griffin proposed to put three or four batteries in position on a ridge in front
of the enemy's works, and in an open place some 400 to 500 yards across and
between the lines. Colonel Wainwright objected. General Griffin asked that a
competent officer might examine the ground. I was sent. Found the enemy
intrenched some few hundred yards in front of the proposed place; the guns near
where the two guns were lost yesterday extended along our front. On the right
our line bent backward, the enemy parallel to it. On the prolongation of the
ridge were the enemy's line crossed it, he had guns which completely enfiladed
the ridge. The fire of these guns and of the enemy in front, both infantry and
artillery, made the position utterably untenable. On my examining the right of
the proposed position, Colonel Upton, who was there, strongly remonstrated
against placing the guns. First, because the enemy's batteries completely swept
the ridge, and was then firing parallel to it and our line and behind us;
second, because the artillery fire which it would draw would enfilade our lines
of infantry behind the ridge. Again, the worst possible point to make an attack
on the enemy was on the works in front of the proposed battery. These views
completely coincided with those of Colonel Wainwright and my own. There was but
one proper way to act, to throw forward the right of our line (Sixth Corps) to
gain the command of the ridge, and then when a flank attack was made on the
works in front the battery could be thrown forward to the ridge to aid. The
proposition to put the battery on the ridge was a pure absurdity. 10.35 a. m.,
saw orders dated 10.35 a. m. to Generals Warren and Sedgwick to suspend their
attack and report their surplus men with a view to make a concentrated attack
on the enemy's right. 1 p. m., ordered by General Meade to place batteries on
the ridge east of the plank road so as to command the woods and openings facing
toward General Hancock's attack, to be ready to repel the enemy should he
succeed in driving Hancock in. 1.10 p. m., ordered one of Edwards' batteries
into position on the ridge behind Old Wilderness Tavern; 2 p. m., ordered Major
Tompkins to place two other batteries and look for additional positions;
ordered Colonel Tompkins to keep a good lookout and throw in more batteries
should it be found necessary; 2.30 p. m., reported that a force of the enemy's
infantry is moving down the Rapidan on both north and south sides.
Reserve ammunition and supply trains near Old Wilderness Tavern ordered toward
Ely's Ford; also one battery from Artillery Reserve to take position at Ely's Ford,
on the south side, to cover the north side; 8.20 p. m., sent notice to Colonel
Burton across the road, to harness up, have his men at their posts, and if
necessary to move before getting further orders, to go to Chancellorsville to put
himself under protection of the cavalry; to send me 1 or 2 officers to convey further
instructions; 9.15 p. m., ordered Captain Edwards to take his batteries of
reserve of the Ninth Corps to a position between headquarters and Colonel
Burton.

May 7 (Saturday).-5.45 p. m., Lieutenant Bissell took to Colonel Burton a
dispatch from general headquarters notifying him that a division of Ninth Corps
would join him on a defense, in addition to the foot artillery brigade of
Kitching, against an attack of the enemy's infantry, said to be passing down
the other side of the Rapidan. (Note.-Kitching's brigade still on the route
from the Fifth Corps.) 6 p. m., Lieutenant Berlin took a dispatch to Colonel
Burton telling him where the infantry division would rejoin its corps; 9 p. m.,
left camp at Old Wilderness Tavern for Spotsylvania Court-House. Reached Todd's
Tavern at 2 a. m. of the 8th of May; staid until morning, then headquarters
moved to Piney Branch Church.

May 8.-Headquarters left camp near Piney Branch Church about 2 p. m.

Henry J. Hunt, U. S. Army, Chief of Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
April 16,1864.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,
Chief of Staff:

GENERAL:
I have respectfully to submit the following proposition for the
organization of a siege train, should one be required for service with this
army near Richmond:

The train should be prepared in Washington, and as a minimum composed of forty
4 1/2-inch siege guns; six spare carriages; ten 10-inch mortars, two spare
carriages; twenty 8-inch mortars, four spare carriages; twenty Coehorn mortars,
with the proper implements and equipments, tool-wagons, sling carts, battery
wagon and forges, mortar wagons, &c., the eight 4 1/2-inch siege guns of
Abbot's regiment (First Connecticut Heavy Artillery), lately sent to
Washington, to constitute a part of the train. If the material can be brought
by water or rail to within a reasonable disenable distance of the point at
which the train is to be used, the horse teams of the two siege batteries and
those of the Artillery Reserve would be available for transporting the guns,
and such additional mule teams as are required to bring them up can, it is
supposed, be furnished from the quartermaster trains The ammunition trains
of the Artillery Reserve and artillery brigades attached to corps can be employed
for the transport of the ammunition. There should be provided for each siege gun 1,000 rounds of
ammunition; for each siege mortar 600 shells; for each Coehorn mortar 200. Of
this ammunition 200 rounds per piece should be brought up before opening fire;
the remainder to be near enough to enable the supply to be kept up. At least
500 sand-bags should be supplied for each gun and mortar of the train, with an
equal number in reserve. I would propose that the organization of the train be
instructed to Colonel Abbot, First Connecticut Artillery, whose regiment served
with the siege train at the siege of Yorktown. That the work may proceed with
the utmost rapidity, another regiment of foot artillery (Kellogg's, Warner's,
or Piper's) might be added to Colonel Abbot's command. Colonel Kellogg served
with credit in the First Connecticut Artillery at Yorktown, and is familiar
with the duties. The two regiments of foot artillery in the reserve will be
available as reliefs, guards for working parties, fabrication of gabions and
fascines, filling sand-bags, &c. The instruction of the regiments with the
train in the mechanical maneuvers, laying of platforms, &c., should commence at
once. A thorough knowledge of these duties will save much time when every hour
is valuable. The material and working directions for constructing magazines,
one for every four guns, should also be prepared in advance, that workmen drawn
from the foot artillery regiments with the army may assist the engineers or
construct them themselves. It is understood that there are rifled 32-pounders,
4-inch caliber, in the works at Richmond. Should it be considered necessary to
oppose to them guns of corresponding power (100-pounders) the ordnance officer
should be instructed to prepare them and their material. This would be a timely
precaution. In case it should be thought necessary to move the train by water
up the Pamunkey to the neighborhood of Hanover Court-House, instructions should
be given to load the material on barges, double-decked ones if possible, such
as are used on the Hudson River for transportation of flour, and do not draw
more than five feet. This depth I understand is found as far up as the bridge
at Widow Lumkin's, near Crump Creek, and within five miles by land of the
railroad. The depth of water and the nature of the road from the bridge to the
railway should be ascertained positively before procuring the barges. A decked
scow or two and 100 or 200 feet of trestle bridging, similar to that prepared
by Major Duane for the pontoon train, but of stronger dimensions, should be
provided to enable landings to be effected at any point.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

Daily Memoranda of Artillery Brigade,
commanded by Colonel Charles H. Tompkins,
First Rhode Island Light Artillery, May 4-June 4.

May 4.-Brigade moved with corps from winter camp near Brandy Station at 4 a. m.
Crossed the Rapidan River in afternoon, and encamped 2 1\2 miles south on
Germanna plank road in evening.

May 5.-Brigade moved with corps at 6 a. m. on Germanna plank road bout 2 1\2
miles to intersection of plank road and Orange Court-House and Fredericksburg
road, when, the enemy being met in force, the corps was established in line and
the artillery massed in its rear.

May 6.-Under arms at 5 a. m., Major Sears' battalion Fourth New York Artillery,
reported at 10.45 a. m., through Brigadier-General Wright, commanding First
Division, Sixth Army corps, to Brigadier-General Neill, commanding Second
Brigade, Second Division, temporarily attached to First Division. Captain
Adams, commanding Battery G, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, was placed in
position to command the Orange Court-House road in the afternoon. At 7.30 p. m.
the right and rear of General Sedgwick's command being attacked and the right
and wing of the corps completely turned, one section of Battery E, First Rhode
Island Light Artillery, Captain W. B. Rhodes commanding, was placed on the
plank road, commanding it toward Germanna Ford. Captains McKinght's and
McCartney's batteries, Batteries M, Fifth U. S. Artillery, and A, Massachusetts
Artillery, were placed in position on side of camp, bearing on the same road.
The remainder of the brigade, wagons, &c., were sent to rear of Captain Adams'
battery.

May 7.-At 10 a. m. Captain McKinght's and McCartney's batteries reported to
Brigadier-General Ricketts, established on left of General Sedgwick's line,
resting near the Orange Court-House road. The following was the position at 11
a. m., without regard to cardinal points.

The line was extended to right in p. m. to resist an anticipated attack.
Brigade moved with corps at 9.30 p. m. toward Chancellorsville and Piney Branch
Church, in following order: First Division, E, Rhode Island. Third Division, M, Fifth [United States], A,
Massachusetts; First New York Independent; C, First Rhode Island; Fourth Maine,
Third New York Independent. Second Division, G, First Rhode Island. Battery C,
First Rhode Island Captain Waterman, lost a caisson body on the road by
overthrow of the carriage into a ditch while crossing a brigade.

May 8.-Passed through Chancellorsville (5 miles) at 7 a. m., passing Piney
Branch Church at 12 m. Parked 1 mile beyond, on Spotsylvania Court-House road.
At 3.30 p. m. moved out on the road half a mile to the support of Fifth Army
Corps, Major-General Warren commanding, if needed. Returned to same camp at 6
o'clock for the night. Battery A, Massachusetts Artillery, Captain McCartney
commanding, was parked during the night at General Warren's headquarters.
All spring wagons, &c., were given, by order, to the medical department for
conveyance of wounded. Forage ration reduced, by orders from headquarters Army
of the Potomac, to 5 pounds per animal.

May 9.-Captain McCartney relieved a section of Mink's battery (H, First New
York Artillery) on right of corps line at 9 a. m. Captain Rhodes' battery (E,
First Rhode Island Artillery), was parked near Fifth Army Corps headquarters,
in place of McCartney's battery, removed. General Sedgwick was killed by a
sharpshooter of the enemy at 9.45 a. m., near McCartney's section, on right of
corps line. Brigadier-General Wright, commanding First Division, assumed
command. Captain Cowan's battery (First New York Independent) and four guns of
McCartney's were placed in position on right to First Division
(Brigadier-General Russell) and left of Second Division (Brigadier-General
Neill). Headquarters were established for the night between corps headquarters
as position of McCartney's four guns. Batteries unharnessed at 9 p. m.

May 10.-Batteries in position at early daybreak. Two mortars from Artillery
Reserve were placed on salient between Sixth and Fifth Corps, McCartney's, and
Rhodes' batteries fired with all rapidity for nine minutes, which firing was
succeeded by an assault upon the enemy's works from the left of the corps line.
After dark Rhodes' battery and the two guns of McCartney's and the two mortars
were withdrawn for the night.

May 11.-Two batteries. Waterman and Kimball, accompanied Colonel Tidball on
reconnaissance. The other batteries of the brigade were parked at the Gate
shown in above diagram.

May 12.-The hard fight.

All batteries, save Cowan, moved at dark, leaving point marked 1; encamped at
point marked 2; subsequently encamped nearer center and farther to rear.

May 13.-Troops rested. Brigade moved with corps at 8 p. m., but on separate roads.

May 14.-Brigade parked at 10 a. m. near Beverly estate. Waterman's and Harn's
batteries engaged the enemy in the afternoon without loss, and encamped on
position between 5 and 6 p. m. Rhodes and Kimball placed in reserve near
Waterman and Harn.

May 15.-The batteries of the brigade changed camp to camp of Waterman, harn, et
al. At dusk Waterman, Harn, Rhodes, and Kimball were relieved by the other
portion of the brigade.

May 16.-Batteries in camp. Four batteries of the eight in position, relieving
each other alternately at dusk.

May 17.-Orders received from headquarters Army of the Potomac, reducing all
six-gun batteries to four guns. The twelve batteries (four batteries reporting
to brigade for duty during the day) were formed into two divisions, first
division, rifles, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe, who reported for duty
during the day; and second division, smooth-bores, commanded by Major Tompkins.
At dark the brigade moved back to Salient. On road all the night.

May 18.-An assault was made on the enemy's works early in the morning. None of
the brigade engaged. The brigade returned to camp on the Po River with the
corps. In the afternoon McKnight and Harn were placed in position on the south
side of the Po, near house. Batteries unharnessed for night.

May 19.-In afternoon brigade moved over to south side of Ny River.

May 20.-New lines constructed during the night. Line established farther south
of river and entrenchments made. Russell on right; Neill in center; Ricketts on
left, connecting with Burnside (Ninth Army Corps).

May 21.-Moved late in afternoon onto the ridge road, to follow Burnside's
corps. Just before dark a rebel brigade advanced on the line held by Sixth
Corps, causing a detention of several hours. Fourth New York Battalion reported
to General Ricketts for duty. Column moved about midnight.

May 22.-Column halted in morning at Guiney's Station. Batteries watered, fed,
&c. Marched to Madison's. Encamped at 10 p. m.

May 23.-Moved from Madison's at 5 a. m. to North Anna River by Carmel Church.
Batteries encamped half a mile from river at 9 p.m.

May 24.-Ordered to be in readiness to move at 5 a. m. Day of rest. The brigade
moved to south bank of North Anna River in afternoon. McKnight and Harn
relieved two batteries of Fifth Corps.

May 25.-Moved at 6 a. m. from Hall's Station to point near intersection of
Little River of Richmond and Fredericksburg Railroad. Established line on right
of General Warren during afternoon. Lieutenant-colonel Monroe was left at river
with four batteries, Brinckle, Rhodes, Waterman, and Adams, with battery
wagons, forges, &c., McCartney, Cowan, Stevens, and Kimball were placed on
line, commencing from the left; McKnight, Dorsey, Hexamer, and Harm were held
in reserve.

May 26.-At 2 a. m. McKnight's Dorsey's, and Hexamer's batteries were carried to
rear to Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe. Colonel Monroe was ordered to take these
three batteries and two of the batteries under his command on the right of the
line over the river to the north bank, leaving two batteries in position on
right of line.

May 27.-Corps moved at dark by Jenks' Bridge and Mount Carmel Church, on road
nearest Pamunkey River, toward Hanovertown; continued on road all Friday (27th
May), encamping at sunset near Taylor's house, 3 miles from river.

May 28.-Crossed Pamunkey River and massed on opposite side about 9 a. m. Day
occupied in establishing line.

May 29.-In camp 1 mile from Pamunkey River. Headquarters at Pollard's house.
Sixth Corps on right of army line.

May 30.-Moved from Pollard's house to Peake's Station, on railroad, at
daylight. Remained there from 7 a. m. to 2 p. m. Moved to Overton's place (Oak
Forest). Line established. Harn and Dorsey put in position. Ricketts, Russell,
Neill, from left to night. Harn and Dorsey on Neill's line.

May 31.-Waterman and Cowan put in position on General Russell's right. Corps
was placed under orders to move at 11 p. m. Marched at midnight to Cold Harbor,
reaching it about 10 a. m. on 1st June.

June 1.-Conjunction with General Smith. Line established. Smith on right,
Wright on left. (Smith Corps line, from left to right, Neill, Russell,
Ricketts.) Smith, Hexamer, Harn, McCartney, Dorsey, Rhodes, Brickle. The latter
did no firing. Do not know whether battalion was in or not.

June 2.-Hexamer relieved by Second Corps battery. Adams and Cowan put in on
left of Harn. At noon, by order of General Hunt, Hexamer was ordered to report
to Captain Elder, chief of artillery, Eighteenth Corps. McCartney and Rhodes
advanced to a new line and entrenched, leaving Dorsey in rear. Brinckle was
withdrawn, the line being advanced. An attack ordered for 5 p. m.; postponed to
3rd June, at 4.30 a. m. June 3.-Attack occurred at 4.30 a. m.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND CORPS,
May 8,1864-10.30 p.m.

Brigadier-General MOTT:
GENERAL: General Hancock has directed me to call on you for a detail of 500 men
for an intrenching party, to bring what tools you have-any deficiency will be
supplied; to report to me immediately in front of General Hancock's
headquarters, near the batteries.

Very respectfully,
JNO. C. TIDBALL,
Colonel and Chief of Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 13, 1864.

CHIEFS OF ARTILLERY, SECOND, FIFTH, AND SIXTH CORPS:

In obedience to circular from headquarters Army of the Potomac, of this date,
your empty artillery ammunition wagons will be reported to the medical
directors of your corps for the transportation of the wounded. When relieved of
the wounded, they will be directed to proceed to Belle Plain at once, and
report to the chief ordnance officer at that place, to be loaded with artillery
ammunition. You will immediately report to Colonel Burton the number of empty
artillery ammunition wagons so sent, in order that he may have them properly
loaded at Belle Plain, to meet your wants.

By command of General Hunt:
JNO. N. CRAIG,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 13, 1864.

Colonel H. S. BURTON,
Commanding Artillery Reserve:

Your empty ammunition wagons, after being discharged from the duty of
transporting the wounded, for which they will report to the medical director
Sixth Corps, at Alsop's, will proceed to Belle Plain, under direction of an
officer to be detailed by you, to load with artillery ammunition.

I have ordered to Belle Plain 6,000 solid shot, 5,000 shrapnel, 1,800 solid
shot (12-pounder), and a supply of 3-inch and 10-pounder ammunition and
12-pounder canister. It was ordered on two different days. Let your wagons, and
those of the artillery ammunition trains of the corps which are ordered to
report to Lieutenant Schaff, ordnance officer at Belle Plain, load up first
with 12-pounder ammunition, as above, and 1,500 rounds 10-pounder Parrott (no
canister is needed); then, if there is roon, load with 3-inch ammunition. We
require all the above light 12-pounder ammunition and more, to complete our
supply, some 14,000 rounds in all; so let all the 12-pounder, except canister,
be brought up. Let all this be done under direction of your ordnance officer,
or the officer you may detail. We are much in want of light 12-pounder
ammunition, and no time should be lost in bringing it up. Let your train move
in connection with some other train, properly escorted. I inclose a letter to
Lieutenant Schaff, ordnance officer at Belle Plain. Issue from your train
whatever the corps require to fill their chests. I have authorized
the chiefs of artillery to draw on you, and send the wagons, if necessary.
Make out a statement of the amount of Coehorn mortar ammunition wanted to
complete 50 rounds per mortar, and direct the ordnance officer to get it, if
possible.

HENRY J. HUNT.
Brigadier General Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac.

HEADQUARTERS OF ARTILLERY, U.S. ARMY,
Washington, May 18, 1864.

Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,
Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit herewith a report of the inspection
of the defenses of Washington, made by order of the Secretary of War.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. HOWE,
Brigadier-General, Inspector of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS INSPECTOR OF ARTILLERY,
Washington, May 17, 1864.

Major-General HALLECK,
Chief of Staff:

SIR: In compliance with the directions of the Secretary of War, received on the 29th
ultimo, I have made an inspection of the works in the defenses of this city, and beg
leave to submit the following report of the inspection: My time being broken by court
duties, I was unable to make but little progress in the inspection until the 10th instant, and
since that time the movement of troops within the line of defenses has somewhat embarrassed
the completion of the inspection. The character and strength of the troops garrisoning the different
forts, their discipline, drill, and efficiency, the kind and extent of the armament, the condition and
supply of the magazines, ammunition, and implements are found in this report under the
names of the respective forts.

After a careful examination of the line of works I am of the opinion that they are ample in
their engineering and artillery strength for the purpose for which they were intended–
the defense of Washington. The works on the south side of the Potomac may be divided
into three classes:
First, those which immediately cover approaches to the city, and are within artillery command
of the city;
Second, those which cover approaches, and are beyond the range of artillery command;
Third, those which do not cover approaches to the city, and are beyond the range of artillery from
the city.

Of the first class, which I regard as the most important, are the works extending from Fort C. F.
Smith on the right to Forts Richardson and Scott on the left, inclusive. The consecutive works in this
line are within close artillery support of each other and with good field of fire. Forts Corcoran,
Whipple, and Albany, Bennett, Haggerty, and Runyon are interior works of this class, Forts
Whipple and Corcoran being of the first importance, having a strong command over five of the
works in the front line. Fort Runyon is out of repair, and is at present unoccupied. It holds,
however, an important position, being at the head of Long Bridge, and if occupied would hold
the bridge and guard it from a surprise. I recommend that it be put in order and occupied. The
exterior works of this class are connected with a strong earthen epaulement, and extending
along the line of works to the Potomac on the left, with embrasures for light artillery at favorable
points. If this class of works is held, it is not, in my judgment, in the power of an enemy seriously
to annoy Washington with a fire from the south side of the river. With an artillery strength of
men sufficient to develop the fire of the forts, and a proper support of infantry, I am of opinion
that the works cannot be carried by an assault.

The weakest feature in this line of works, and it obtains more or less throughout the whole line
of the defenses, is their liability to be surprised. The garrisons of the works, with the exception
of small guards, are quartered outside the works. No infantry force has been kept between and
near the line of the works. The outpost guards have been very weak. The character of the
topography of the country for miles outside of the works, with the numerous roads, all favor and
invite a sudden and covered dash upon the works.

With a view to strengthen the works in this particular, I recommend that regiments of the [Veteran]
Reserve Corps be stationed at the following points: One regiment between Forts Richardson and
Craig; one regiment between Forts Craig and Tillinghast; one regiment between Forts Tillinghast
and Woodbury and in advance of Fort Whipple; one regiment between Forts Woodbury and
Strong and in advance of Fort Corcoran; one regiment between Forts Worth and Ward; one
regiment between Forts Garesché and Berry, and one regiment between Forts Ethan Allen
and Marcy.

From the troops of the Reserve Corps thus posted I recommend that the officers commanding
the defenses south of the Potomac be instructed to establish outposts as follows: A picket
reserve of three companies at Ball's Cross-Roads; a picket reserve of three companies at
Bailey's Cross-Roads; a picket reserve of two companies on the Little River pike, between
Clover Hill and Hunting Creek; a picket reserve of two companies on the Leesburg and
Georgetown pike at the cross-roads, between Langley and Fort Marcy. I recommend that
the best instructed and most efficient artillery troops in the line of defenses be kept in the
works of the first class. Forts Ethan Allen and Marcy, in the second class, cover the
approaches to the city by the Chain Bridge; they are in close artillery support of each other,
but beyond the range of artillery support from the nearest work (Fort Smith) on their left.
If the cover of these works and their connections are properly manned it is believed they
cannot be carried by assault. From the position of these works they do not offer advantages
sufficient to an enemy, if possessed, to make them worth the operations of a siege; they do
not immediately command the bridge, and the right bank of the river at the head of the bridge
is commanded by Batteries Vermont, Cameron, Kemble, and Parrott on the left bank,
and the bridge is swept by Battery Martin Scott on the left bank. The strength of artillerymen
at Battery Martin Scott I do not consider sufficient. I found but 1 non-commissioned officer
and 3 men in charge of four guns. I recommend that 1 officer, 4 noncommissioned officers, and
24 men be allowed this battery.

The works of the third class, extending to the left from Fort Berry to the Potomac, do not
immediately command approaches to the city, and are beyond artillery range from it.
They, however, command important ground, and cover the depot at Alexandria, and
are in good supporting distance; and they are sufficiently strong, if properly manned, to
resist an assault. The possession of them would offer no objective point to an enemy
that would render them liable to a siege.

Battery Rodgers, below Alexandria, and Fort Foote, on the left bank of the river,
are important works for river defense. Battery Rodgers received ammunition for
its two guns on the 9th instant, and Fort Foote ammunition for its 15-inch guns
on the 13th instant. From the length of time that is necessarily occupied in serving
guns of the caliber in these two works, and the unfavorable heighth of
these batteries above the water-line for accuracy of firing, the guns of the two works
do not afford sufficient reliable fire as would insure the checking of an attempt to pass
the batteries. I would, therefore, recommend that these two works be furnished with the full
armament for which they are constructed, and that they be manned by efficient artillerists.
The works on the north side of the Potomac are a continuous line of forts from Fort Sumner,
on the river above the city, to Fort Greble, on the river below the city. The forts in this line
are in artillery support of each other, and connected throughout by earthern epaulements.
Fort Gaines is an interior work. The most important position of this line is that part included
between Forts Sumner and Slocum, as it covers the approaches to the city on the river line
of roads. The most important works in this portion of the line are Forts Stevens, Reno,
Sumner, and Slocum. The portion of the line between Fort Slocum and the Eastern Branch
is less liable to be assailed, and that portion of the line east of the Eastern Branch the least
liable to attack of any part of the whole defenses. The most important works between
Fort Slocum and the Eastern Branch are Forts Lincoln, Bunker Hill, and Totten.

The most important works east of the Eastern Branch are Forts Stanton, Carroll, and
Greble, which, from their position, are in range of the Arsenal and Navy-Yard, and
Fort Stanton in easy command of both. With a view to guard these works from a
surprise, I recommend that regiments of the Reserve Corps be stationed at the following
points: One regiment between Forts Sumner and Mansfield, one regiment near Fort Reno,
one regiment near Fort Stevens, one regiment between Forts Slocum and Totten, one
regiment between Forts Lincoln and Bunker Hill; the officer commanding the division
north of the Potomac to establish a picket-line from this force. The cavalry force at the
fords of the Potomac, beginning at Great Falls and extending to the Monocacy, is sufficient,
as is the force on the south side to guard the railroad. The forts throughout the line are advanced
to completion, sufficient for defensive purposes, except Forts Ward and Stanton, in which I
found but few guns mounted, and the work on them progressing but slowly.

The guards at the different bridges I think have been insufficient, and the guard duty
generally loosely and carelessly performed. This has arisen in some degree from the guards
being composed of detachments of companies and commanded by non-commissioned
officers. I recommend that the following changes be made in the guards at the bridges: One
full company at Fort Jackson, at the head of Long Bridge; one full company at the new
stockade at the head of Aqueduct Bridge; one full company at the Georgetown head of the
Chain Bridge, with a guard of 10 men and 2 non-commissioned officers from this company
at the iron gates of the bridge; one platoon of a company at the Navy-Yard bridge, and
the other platoon of the same company at the upper bridge of the Eastern Branch. The
performance of the guard duty as required by the regulations of the service should be rigidly
enforced. There is no communication between the forts by signal, nor between the outside
and the forts. Signals are made from the outside of the works directly to department
headquarters, and from thence to headquarters of the division south of the Potomac by
telegraph. I recommend that signal communication be had between the outside and the
forts, and between the forts. The roadways within the line of defenses are ample and
sufficiently good for practical purposes.

Subsistence is readily obtained from the depots in the line, and twenty days' kept on hand
in the works south of Hunting Creek and at Forts Ethan Allen and Marcy. The other
works keep ten days' supply on hand. I am of opinion that it would promote the health,
discipline, drill, and efficiency of the Reserve Corps to encamp them without the limits of
the city, but within the line of defense, leaving in the city only guards for hospitals, public
property, and provost duty.

I recommend that they De encamped at the following points:
One camp near Fort Gaines, one camp between Batteries Cameron and Vermont, one
camp between Fort Scott and Fort Craig, one camp near Alexandria Seminary. These
points are favorable for reserves and are accessible from all points of the line, and
would afford advantages to the troops for improvement that they cannot have within the
limits of the city. I observed in the inspection, too, generally, a want of observance of the
regulations of the service which requires the marking of clothing, knapsacks, canteens, and
haversacks. This omission was very marked in the Second and Seventh New York Regiments.
The Ninth New York Heavy Artillery was changed during the inspection from the north to the
south side of the river, and I inspected it in the works previously occupied by the First
Connecticut. I regret to state that I found this regiment, in point of discipline and drill (both in
artillery and infantry), much less efficient than any regiment in the line of defenses. The men
of this regiment are generally young, active, and intelligent men, and the fault lies mainly with
the commanding officer of the regiment, Colonel Welling. The condition of the regiment
bears unmistakable evidence that the colonel of the regiment is not fit for the command.

Fort C. F. Smith, Maj. W. A. McKay commanding.–Garrison, four companies Second
New York Heavy Artillery–1 major, 15 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
548 men. Armament, three 12-pounder field howitzers, two 6-pounder field guns-four
24-pounder siege guns, one 8-inch sea-coast howitzer, six 4_- inch ordnance, and four
8-inch siege mortars. Magazines, two; dry and in serviceable condition. Ammunition,
full supply and well packed. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, very
ordinary; wants improving much. Drill in infantry, insufficient; wants more energy and
attention given to it. Discipline, great want of improvement. Garrison is sufficient.

Fort Strong, Major Maguire commanding.–Garrison, three companies Second New
York Heavy Artillery– 1 major, 10 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
410 men. Armament, one 24-pounder field howitzer, five 24-pounder siege guns,
one 6-pounder field gun, two 24-pounder howitzers, four 30-pounder Parrotts,
and two 10-inch siege mortars. Magazines, two; not entirely dry, one recently repaired.
Ammunition, full supply; serviceable condition. Implements, full sets; serviceable. Drill
in artillery, indifferent; requires improving. Drill in infantry, very deficient; much labor is
required to bring it to an efficient condition. Discipline, deficient; fault of the officer in
command; he needs more energy and efficiency. Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Bennett, Major Maguire commanding.–Garrison, one company Second New York
Heavy Artillery–2 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 117 men. Armament, three
24-pounder siege guns and two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers. Magazine., one; leaks in places.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, <ar68_887> complete and serviceable.
Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison sufficient for the work.

Fort Corcoran, Lieut. Col. J. Palmer commanding.–Garrison, three companies Second New
York Heavy Artillery–1 lieutenant-colonel, 8 commissioned officers, 396 men, 1 ordnance-
sergeant. Armament, two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, two 12-pounder heavy guns, four
12-pounder light Napoleons, and three 10-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, three; two serviceable,
one unserviceable and being repaired. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements,
full sets and serviceable. Drill in artillery, very ordinary; wants improving much. Drill in
infantry, very deficient; fault is in the officer in command; but little attention seems to have
been given to improvement. Discipline, low state; shows inefficiency in the command.
Garrison is amply sufficient.

Fort Haggerty, Capt. Charles L. Smith commanding.–Garrison, one company Second New
York Heavy Artillery–1 captain, 3 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 164 men.
Armament, four 24-pounder siege guns. Magazines, one; dry, well-packed, and serviceable.
Ammunition, full supply; in a good condition. Implements, complete. Drill in artillery, fair.
Drill in infantry, wants improving much. Discipline, indifferent. Garrison is more than
necessary.

Fort Woodbury, Maj. N. Shatswell commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Massachusetts
Heavy Artillery–1 major, 10 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 256 men.
Armament, four 6-pounder James (rifled), four 24-pounder siege (smooth), one 24-pounder
F. D. howitzer (smooth), three 30-pounder Parrotts (rifled), one 24-pounder Coehorn mortar.
Magazines, two; dry, and a new one being built. Ammunition, full supply and well packed
and in good condition. Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair;
approaching good. Drill in infantry, commendable degree of efficiency. Discipline, fair.
Garrison sufficient.

Fort Cass, Maj. N. Shatswell commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Massachusetts
Heavy Artillery- -8 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 220 men. Armament,
three 6-pounder field guns (smooth), five 20-pounder Parrotts (rifled), three 24-pounder
siege guns (smooth). one 24-pounder F. D. howitzer (smooth), one 24-pounder Coehorn
mortar. Magazines, two; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply, well packed
and in serviceable condition. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair.
Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison sufficient for the work.

Fort Whipple, Major Rotfe commanding.–Garrison, three companies First Massachusetts
Heavy Artillery– l major, 13 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 414 men.
Armament, six 12-pounder field guns (smooth), four 12-pounder field howitzers (smooth),
eight 12-pounder James guns (rifled), eleven 4.5-inch ordnance. Magazines, four; two not
in a serviceable condition. Ammunition, full supply; good condition. Implements, complete
and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison
sufficient; interior work.

Fort Tillinghast, Major Rolfe commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Massachusetts
Heavy Artillery– 7 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 220 men. Armament,
one 24-pounder field howitzer (smooth), two 20-pounder Parrotts (rifled), three 24-pounder
siege guns (smooth), one 24-pounder F. D. howitzer, four <ar68_888> 30-pounder Parrotts
(rifled), two 24-pounder Coehorn mortars. Magazines being rebuilt; at present unserviceable;
work progressing slowly; ammunition kept in bomb-proof. Ammunition, full supply and
serviceable. Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry,
fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison sufficient for the work.

Fort Craig, Major Holt commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Massachusetts Heavy
Artillery–15 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 280 men. Armament, one 24-pounder
field howitzer, four 24-pounder siege, five 30-pounder Parrotts, one Coehorn mortar, one
10-inch mortar. Magazines, two; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply and in good
condition. Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair.
Discipline, fair. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Albany, Captain Rhodes commanding.–Garrison, one company First Massachusetts
Volunteers–5 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 145 men. Armament, two 24-pounder
field howitzers, four 24-pounder siege, two 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, two; dry and in
good order. Ammunition, full supply and in good condition. Implements, complete and in
good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison of sufficient
strength.

Fort Scott, Major Trumbull commanding.–Garrison, one company First Connecticut Heavy
Artillery–4 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 137 men. Armament, two 12-pounder
mountain howitzers, two 6- pounder James (rifled). Magazines, two; dry and in good condition.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in
infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison sufficient for the work.

Fort Richardson, Major Trumbull commanding.–Garrison, three companies First Connecticut
Heavy Artillery–1 major, 12 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 412 men. Armament,
two 24-pounder field howitzers, six 24-pounder siege (smooth),one 100-pounder rifled Parrott,
three 30-pounder rifled Parrotts, two 24- pounder Coehorn mortars, one 10-inch mortar. Magazines,
two: dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and
in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison sufficient for
the work.

Fort Rodgers, Major Meservey commanding.–Garrison, one company First Wisconsin Volunteers–
1 major, 5 commissioned officers, 203 men. Armament, one 15-inch Rodman gun, one 200-pounder
Parrott (rifled). Magazines, two; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, supplies received
May 9, 1864. Implements, complete, good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair.
Discipline, fair. Garrison larger than necessary.

Fort Lyon, Major Campbell Commanding.–Garrison, five companies Tenth New York Heavy
Artillery–1 major, 18 commissioned officers. 1 ordnance-sergeant, 627 men. Armament,
seven 6-pounder field guns (smooth), ten 32-pounder sea-coast (smooth). ten 24pounder
siege guns (smooth), five 30-pounder Parrotts (rifled), four 24-pounder Coehorn mortars,
and two 10-inch siege mortars. Magazines, one; dry in and good order. Ammunition, full
supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary;
needs improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; <ar68_889> requires more energy
and attention from the officer in command to make them efficient. Discipline, indifferent.
Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Weed, Major Campbell commanding.–Garrison, one company Tenth New York Heavy
Artillery–5 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 122 men. Armament, two
12-pounder field howitzers (smooth), three 24-pounder siege guns (smooth), six 30-pounder
Parrotts. Magazines, one:dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, ordinary; wants improving.
Drill in infantry, very indifferent; wants improving much. Discipline, indifferent.
Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Farnsworth, Major Campbell commanding.–Garrison, one company Tenth New
York Heavy Artillery– 3 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 128 men. Armament,
two 12-pounder field howitzers (smooth), four 4_-inch ordnance (rifled), four 24-pounder
siege guns (smooth). Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and
good condition. Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs
improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; wants labor and attention to become efficient.
Discipline, indifferent. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort O'Rorke, Captain Armstrong commanding.–Garrison, two companies Tenth New York
Heavy Artillery–6 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant, 242 men. Armament, two
12-pounder field howitzers (smooth), six 20-pounder Parrotts (rifled), one 24-pounder siege
gun (smooth), two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, two 24-pounder Coehorn mortars. Magazines,
one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and in good order. Implements, complete
and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; wants improving
much. Discipline, indifferent. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Willard, Major Abell commanding.–Garrison, three companies Tenth New York Heavy
Artillery–11 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 358 men. Armament, two
12-pounder field howitzers, four 6-pounder James, four 4_-inch ordnance, two 24-pounder
siege guns (smooth), two 24-pounder Coehorn mortars, two 10- inch siege mortars.
Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and in good order.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary: needs improving.
Drill in infantry, very indifferent; needs much improving. Discipline, indifferent. Garrison
is of sufficient strength.

Fort Ellsworth, Major Rice commanding.–Garrison, four companies Second Connecticut
Heavy Artillery– 1 major, 18 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 522 men.
Armament, four 6-pounder field guns (smooth), three 24-pounder siege guns (smooth),
nine 8-inch sea-coast howitzers (smooth), one 100-pounder Parrott (rifled), three 30-pounder
Parrotts. Magazines, two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, ordinary.
Discipline, fair. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Williams, Major Ells commanding.–Garrison, two companies Second Connecticut
Heavy Artillery–1 major. 18 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 562 men. Armament,
two 24-pounder field howitzers (smooth), four 10-pounder Parrotts, six 4_-inch ordnance,
one 8-inch sea-coast howitzer, two 24-pounder <ar68_890> Coehorn mortars. Magazines,
two; dry and in excellent order. Ammunition, full supply and in good order. Implements,
complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair.
Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Worth, Major Hubbard commanding.–Garrison, two companies Second Connecticut
Heavy Artillery– 1 major, 1 ordnance-sergeant. Armament, two 20-pounder Parrotts, two
12-pounder Whitworth guns (rifled), five 12-pounder Napoleons, five 4_-inch ordnance,
eight 24-pounder siege guns (smooth), two 100-pounder Parrotts, two 24-pounder Coehorn
mortars, four 10-inch siege mortars. Magazines, dry and in serviceable condition.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in
artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Ward, Major Hemingway commanding.–Garrison, three companies First Connecticut
Heavy Artillery– 1 major, 12 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 401 men.
Armament, two 10-pounder Parrotts, five 4_- inch ordnance, five 32-pounder sea-coast, six
24-pounder siege guns, one 100-pounder Parrott, one 24-pounder Coehorn mortar, seven
8-inch siege mortars. Magazines, three; two serviceable, one unserviceable; new ones being
built. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable
(but seven guns of this work were mounted and ready for action; work not completed).
Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, ordinary. Discipline, fair. Garrison is sufficient for
the work.

Fort Garesché, Lieutenant Logan commanding.–Garrison, one company First Connecticut
Heavy Artillery– 4 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant, 144 men. Armament, two
32-pounder field howitzers (smooth), five 24-pounder Parrotts, two 8-inch seacoast howitzers,
two 24-pounder Coehorn mortars. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full
supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in
infantry, ordinary: Discipline, fair. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Reynolds, Major Hemingway commanding.–Garrison, one company First Connecticut
Heavy Artillery– 3 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 147 men. Armament, four
12-pounder field howitzers, four 32- pounder sea-coast guns, three 30-pounder Parrotts, two
24-pounder Coehorn mortars. Magazines, two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply
and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry,
ordinary. Discipline, fair. Garrison weak for this armament.

Fort Barnard, Major Cook commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Connecticut Heavy
Artillery–1 major, 1 ordnance-sergeant, –– men. Armament, three 24-pounder field howitzers,
six 32-pounder seacoast guns, three 24-pounder siege guns, two 8-inch seacoast howitzers,
three 30-pounder Parrotts, one 24- pounder Coehorn mortar, and one 10-inch siege mortar.
Magazines, two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and in good condition.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline,
fair. Garrison is sufficient.

Fort Berry, Major Cook commanding.–Garrison, one company First Connecticut Heavy
Artillery–1 ordnance-sergeant [sic]. Armament, four 24-pounder field howitzers, two 4_-
inch ordnance, two <ar68_891> 8-inch howitzers. Magazines, one; dry and in good condition.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in
artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, ordinary. Discipline, fair. Garrison is sufficient.

Fort Ethan Allen, Col. A. A. Gibson commanding.–Garrison, nine companies Second Pennsylvania
Heavy Artillery–1 colonel, 29 commissioned officers, 1,346 men, and 1 ordnance-sergeant.
Armament, nine 6-pounder field guns, three 10-pounder Parrotts, three 32pounder bronze howitzers,
four 24-pounder siege guns, two 8-inch sea-coast howitzers, eleven 30-pounder Parrotts, six 24-
pounder Coehorn mortars, four 10-inch siege mortars. Magazines, four; dry and serviceable.
Ammunition, full supply and in good order. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery,
ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; needs much improving. Discipline,
indifferent. Garrison larger than necessary. Cavalry garrison, one company (E) Thirteenth New York
Cavalry–2 commissioned officers, 78 enlisted men, 53 equipped, 52 horses.

Fort Marcy, Maj. Z. L. Anderson commanding.–Garrison, three companies Second Pennsylvania
Heavy Artillery–1 major, 8 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant, 430 men. Armament,
two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, three 20-pounder Parrotts, three 10-pounder Parrotts, three
24-pounder siege guns, six 30-pounder Parrotts, two 24-pounder Coehorn mortars, one 10-inch
siege mortar. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in
infantry, indifferent; needs much improving. Discipline, indifferent. Garrison stronger than
necessary.

Fort Sumner, Col. Daniel Chaplin commanding.–Garrison, six companies First Maine Heavy
Artillery–1 colonel, 30 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant, 868 men. Armament, six
6-pounder field guns, four 12- pounder field guns, eight 30-pounder barbette, three 8-inch siege
howitzers, two Coehorn mortars, one 10-inch mortar, six 4_-inch rifled, two 100-pounder Parrotts.
Magazines, two; only one of which is dry and in good condition. Ammunition, not a full supply;
serviceable. Implements, full set and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair.
Discipline, fair. Garrison is sufficient.

Battery Vermont, Lieut. George Rollins.–Garrison, one company First Maine Heavy Artillery–
1 commissioned officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 27 men. Armament, three 32-pounders -. Magazines,
one; not dry; wants repairs. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and
serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison is sufficient.

Fort Mansfield, Lieut. Col. Thomas H. Talbot commanding.–Garrison, two companies(Third Battalion)
First Maine Heavy Artillery–9 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 281 men. Armament, two
12-pounder howitzers, four 6-pounder James (rifled), one 8-inch siege howitzer, four 4_-inch (rifled).
Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, full
sets and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair. Garrison is of sufficient
strength.

Fort Simmons, Lieut. Col. Thomas H. Talbot commanding.–Garrison, two companies (Third Battalion)
First Maine Heavy Artillery-1 lieutenant-colonel, 9 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 289 men.
Armament, two 12-pounder field howitzers, one 8-inch siege howitzer, five 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines,
one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable.
Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; needs much improving.
Discipline, indifferent. Garrison is not full strength.

Battery Cameron, Maj. George W. Sabine commanding.–Garrison, one company First Maine Heavy
Artillery–1 major, 5 commissioned officers 1 ordnance-sergeant, 146 men. Armament, two 42-pounder
James (rifled), two 100-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full
supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in
infantry, ordinary. Discipline, fair. Garrison is stronger than necessary.

Battery Parrott, Capt. Frederic E. Shaw commanding.–Garrison, one company First Maine
Heavy Artillery–1 commissioned officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 46 men. Armament, two 100-
pounder Parrots. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Garrison
is sufficient.

Battery Kemble, Capt. F. E. Shaw commanding.–Garrison, one company First Maine Heavy
Artillery–3 officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 54 men. Armament, two 100-pounder Parrotts.
Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements,
complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Garrison is sufficient.

Fort Kearny, Maj. E. A. Springsteed commanding.–Garrison, two companies Seventh New
York Heavy Artillery–1 major, 7 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 289 men.
Armament, three 24-pounder siege, three 32-pounder barbette, one S-inch siege howitzer,
three 4_-inch (rifled). Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply
and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, indifferent; needs
improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; wants improving much. Discipline, indifferent.
Garrison is of full strength.

Fort Bayard, Maj. J. M. Murphy commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh New
York Heavy Artillery– 6 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant, 129 men. Armament,
two 12-pounder field howitzers and four 20- pounder Parrotts. Magazines, one; dry and in
good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable.
Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, very indifferent; needs much
improving. Discipline, indifferent. Garrison is not full strength.

Battery Smead, Capt. N.H. Moore commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh New
York Heavy Artillery– 1 commissioned officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 147 men. Armament,
four 20-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, one; dry and serviceable. Ammunition, full supply
and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs
improving. Drill in infantry, indifferent; needs much improving. Discipline, very indifferent.
Garrison is stronger than necessary.

Fort Gaines, Capt. Charles Maguire commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh New
York Heavy Artillery–5 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 146 men. Armament,
five 32-pounder barbette, one 4_- inch (rifled). Magazines, one; dry and in good order.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in
artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, indifferent; needs improving. Discipline,
indifferent. Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort De Russy, Lieut. Col. John Hastings commanding.–Garrison, two companies Seventh
New York Heavy Artillery–1 lieutenant-colonel, 10 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-
sergeant, 289 men. Armament, three 32- pounder barbette, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch
mortar, five 30-pounder Parrotts, one 100-pounder Parrott. Magazines, one; dry and serviceable.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in
artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, indifferent; needs improving much.
Discipline, too loose for efficiency. Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Reno, Col. Lewis O. Morris commanding.–Garrison, four companies Seventh New
York Heavy Artillery–21 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 602 men. Armament,
nine 24-pounder barbette, one 24-pounder F. D. howitzer, two 8-inch siege howitzers, two
Coehorn mortars, two 10-inch mortars, four 30-pounder Parrotts, one 100-pounder Parrott.
Magazines, two; dry and serviceable. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements,
complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, indifferent; wants improving much. Drill in infantry,
very indifferent; wants more energy and attention in the commanding officers. Discipline, too
loose for efficiency. Garrison is ample strength.

Fort Reno, Capt. S. E. Jones commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh New York Heavy
Artillery– 5 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 149 men. Armament, seven
20-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and
serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, indifferent; wants improving.
Drill in infantry, very indifferent; but little attention seems to have been given to it. Discipline,
deficient. Garrison is of sufficient strength.

Fort Carroll, Capt. Loring S. Richardson commanding.–Garrison, one company Eighth
Unattached Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–4 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance
sergeant, 124 men. Armament, six 12-pounder field guns, four 32-pounder barbette, two 8-inch
siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 30- pounder Parrott. Magazines, two; dry and in
good order. Ammunition, not a full supply, but serviceable: requisition made for full supply.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Garrison drilled only as infantry.

Fort Slemmer, Maj. Charles Hunsdon commanding.–Garrison, one company First Vermont
Artillery–3 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance sergeant, 73 men. Armament, three 32-pounder
barbette, one 8-inch siege howitzer. Magazines, one; dry and in good order. Ammunition,
full supply and serviceable. Implements, full sets and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary.
Drill in infantry, ordinary. Discipline, ordinary. Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Totten, Maj. Charles Hunsdon commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Vermont
Artillery–1 major, 7 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 206 men. Armament-four
6-pounder field guns, eight 32-pounder Parrotts, two 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn
mortar, one 10-inch mortar, three 30-pounder Parrotts, one 100- pounder Parrott. Magazines,
two; one in serviceable condition and one being repaired. Ammunition full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline,
fair. Garrison not of sufficient strength.

Fort Slocum, Lieut. Col. R. C. Benton commanding.–Garrison, two companies First Vermont
Artillery–l lieutenant-colonel, 10 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 280 men.
Armament, six 10-pounder Parrotts, three 24-pounder barbette, three 24-pounder siege,
four 24-pounder F. D. howitzers, two Coehorn mortars, one 10-inch mortar, seven 4_-inch
(rifled). Magazines, three; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply and in good
order. Implements, complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair.
Discipline, fair. Garrison not of sufficient strength.

Fort Stevens, Lieut. Col. R. C. Benton commanding.–Garrison, two companies Eleventh
Vermont Volunteers (First Vermont Heavy Artillery), one company New Hampshire Heavy
Artillery (unattached)–1 lieutenant-colonel, 14 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
423 men. Armament, four 24-pounder barbette, six 24-pounder siege, two 8-inch siege
howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch mortar, five 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines,
two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and in good order. Implements,
complete and in good order. Drill in artillery, fair. Drill in infantry, fair. Discipline, fair.
Garrison of sufficient strength.

Fort Meigs and Extension, Capt. E. Schubert commanding.–Garrison, one company Ninth
New York Independent Battery–3 officers and 50 men; a detachment Ninth Company
Unattached Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers, I officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
49 men. Armament, five 12-pounder guns, two 12- pounder field howitzers, five
32-pounder barbette, four 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch
mortar, two 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, three; two not dry, one dry and in good
condition. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and in
good condition. Drill in artillery, New York Battery, fair; Massachusetts detachment
drilled only as infantry. Garrison only sufficient for a guard.

Fort Saratoga, Capt. Andrew Fagan commanding.–Garrison, withdrawn; works guarded
by Battery H, First Pennsylvania Artillery, from Camp Barry–1 ordnance-sergeant.
Armament, six 32-pounder barbette, one 8-inch siege howitzer, one Coehorn mortar.
Magazines, one; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and serviceable.

Fort Du Pont, Lieut. Marcus Conant commanding.–Garrison, one-half company Ninth
Unattached Company Massachusetts Ar-tillery-1 commissioned officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
and 29 men. Armament, two 6-pounder field guns, three 24-pounder barbette, three 8-inch
siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar. Magazines, one; dry and in good order.
Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable.

Fort Mahan.–Garrison, one company Unattached Heavy Massachusetts Artillery–1
ordnance-sergeant. Armament, three 12-pounder field guns, four 15-inch Rodman,
four 24-pounder F. D. howitzers, two 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar,
one 10-inch siege mortar, three 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, two; dry and in good
order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable.

Fort Davis, Lieut. D. D. Dana commanding.–Garrison, one-half company Ninth
Unattached Company Massachusetts Volunteer Artillery–1 commissioned officer,
1 ordnance-sergeant, and 32 men. Armament, five 6-pounder field guns, three
24-pounder barbette, three 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar. Magazines,
two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply. Implements, complete and
serviceable. Garrison not drilled at artillery.

Fort Lincoln and Battery Jameson, Capt. A. W. Bradbury commanding.–Garrison,
withdrawn; works guarded by First Maine Battery from Camp Barry–1
ordnance-sergeant. Armament, eight 6-pounder field guns (bronze), four 12-pounder
field guns, five 24-pounder barbette, one 24-pounder siege, six 32-pounder sea-coast
howitzers, two 24-pounder howitzers (F. D.), two 8-inch howitzers, two Coehorn
mortars, one 10-inch mortar, four 30- pounder Parrotts, one 100-pounder Parrott.
Magazines, two; dry and in good order, one magazine has never had a luck. Ammunition,
full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable.

Fort Bunker Hill, Capt. Charles Heine commanding.–Garrison, withdrawn; works
guarded by Fourteenth Michigan Battery, from Camp Barry–1 ordnance-sergeant.
Armament, eight 32-pounder barbette, one 8-inch siege howitzer, one Coehorn mortar,
one 10-inch siege mortar, one 4_-inch ordnance, two 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines,
one; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements,
complete and serviceable.

Fort Thayer, Capt. H. D. Scott commanding.–Garrison, withdrawn; works guarded by
Sixteenth Massachusetts Battery, from Camp Barry–1 ordnance-sergeant. Armament,
four 24-pounder barbette, one 24-pounder siege, two 8-inch siege howitzers, one
24-pounder Coehorn mortar. Magazines, one: dry and in good order. Ammunition, full
supply, well packed and in good order. Implements, complete and serviceable.

Fort Stanton, Capt. C. C. Bumpus commanding.–Garrison, one company Heavy
Massachusetts Volunteer Artillery–2 commissioned officers, 1 ordnance sergeant,
128 men. Armament, six 32-pounder barbette, three 24- pounder F. D. howitzers, four
8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 4_-inch (rifled). Magazines, two
serviceable and third being built. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements,
complete and serviceable. Not drilled in artillery; some in infantry.

Fort Snyder, Capt. James M. Richardson commanding.–Garrison, one-half company of
Twelfth Company Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–2 commissioned officers,
1 ordnance-sergeant, 69 men. Armament, six l2-pounder field guns, two 8-inch siege
howitzers, one Coehorn mortar. Magazines, one; dry and serviceable. Ammunition, full
supply and in good order. Implements, complete and in good condition. Garrison drilled
some at artillery and infantry, sufficient for guard.

Fort Baker, Lieut. William Cook commanding.–Garrison, one company Sixth Unattached
Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–1 officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 136 men.
Armament, eight 10-pounder Parrotts, seven 24-pounder barbette, two 24-pounder F. D.
howitzers, three 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch mortar.
Magazines, two: dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply and in good
condition. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drilled some at artillery and infantry;
not efficient. Garrison sufficient for a guard. <ar68_896>

Fort Ricketts, Lieut. Joseph M. Parsons commanding.–Garrison, one company Twelfth
Unattached Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–1 officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant,
and 32 men. Armament, three 12-pounder field guns, one 8-inch siege howitzer.
Magazines, dry and in serviceable condition. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable.
Implements, complete and serviceable. Drilled but little at artillery and infantry; not
efficient.

Fort Wagner, Lieut. Lewis R. Whittaker commanding.–Garrison, one company Twelfth
Unattached Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–1 commissioned officer, 1
ordnance-sergeant, 32 men. Armament, three 12-pounder field guns, one 8-inch siege
howitzer, one Coehorn mortar. Magazines, one; dry and serviceable. Ammunition, full
supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drilled but little at
artillery and infantry; not much efficiency.

Fort Greble, Capt. George S. Worcester commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh
Unattached Heavy Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–4 commissioned officers, 1
ordnance-sergeant, 120 men. Armament, six 12-pounder field howitzers, six 32-pounder
barbette, one 8-inch siege howitzer, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch mortar, one
30-pounder Parrott. Magazines, one; dry and in good condition. Ammunition, full supply
and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Garrison drilled some at
artillery and infantry.

Fort Foote, Capt. L. B. Whiton commanding.–Garrison, one company Unattached Heavy
Artillery, Massachusetts Volunteers–5 commissioned officers, I ordnance-sergeant,
110 men. Armament, one 15-inch Rodman gun and two 200-pounder Parrotts.
Magazines, three, only one of which is completed; completed one 'in good condition.
Ammunition, not a full supply and not in a state of readiness for service. Implements,
complete and serviceable. Company drilled at artillery and infantry, but is not efficient
with the guns.

Battery Martin Scott, Colonel Gibson commanding.–Garrison, 4 enlisted men.
Armament, two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, two 6-pounder James (rifled).
Magazines, one; serviceable. Ammunition, supply sufficient; serviceable.
Garrison is insufficient.

The garrisons of the works throughout the line have been exercised at artillery
practice, and the results of the firing show a commendable degree of skill and
proficiency. The magazines are furnished with the necessary materials for
replenishing the ammunition, except that which is more readily obtained from
the arsenal. The facilities for supplying the magazines from the arsenal are all
that is necessary.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. P. HOWE,
Brigadier-General, Inspector of Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 20, 1864.

Colonel F. McGILVERY,
Commanding Ammunition Park:
COLONEL: The number of guns in this army for which ammunition is to be
transported is as follows: Eighty-eight light 12-pounders,
sixteen Parrotts, one hundred and two 3-inch. For them 20 rounds each are
to be carried in the wagons of the artillery park. The number of wagons for the
ammunition train proper is, therefore, sixteen for light 12-pounders, seventeen
for rifles, which should be loaded, 112 rounds of light 12-pounder, 140 of
rifle, per wagon. Two wagons are allowed for transport of forage. The wagons
for the above-stated purposes now with the artillery park, over and above the
allowance, will be turned over to the quartermaster's department.

If there is more ammunition than above stated now in the train the excess will
be stored in a safe place in Fredericksburg, if a room for the purpose can be
procured, and issued from time to time as the batteries make requisition for
it. If you leave Fredericksburg before it is all issued, it will be turned over
to the quartermaster's department for transport to Belle Plain, unless there is
an ordnance officer at Fredericksburg to take charge of it, in which case it
will be turned over to him. You will proceed at once to organize your command
for the field, as you may receive orders at any hour to move, and report your
readiness to the chief of artillery.

By command of General Hunt:
JNO. N. CRAIG,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 20, 1864-10 p. m.

Captain D. R. RANSOM
Commanding Second Brigade Horse Artillery:

CAPTAIN: You will report with your brigade to Lieutenant-Colonel Gould,
commanding dismounted cavalry at Fredericksburg, and move with him until
further orders.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
May 20, 1864-10 p.m.

Colonel F. McGILVERY,
Commanding Ammunition Park:

COLONEL: You will move with the train which has orders to move to-night,
picking up the battalion of Fifteenth New York Artillery which is at the
cross-roads, and which has orders to join you as your guard and part of your
command. You will remain and move with the main train until further orders,
reporting from time to time, as opportunity offers, your locality and
condition.

Respectfully, &c.,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

Report of Major Theodore H. Schenck, Third New York Light Artillery,
Commanding Artillery Brigade, of operations May 6-16.
HDQRS. ARTY. Brigadier , FIRST DIV., 18TH ARMY CORPS,
In the Field, May 22, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to report that Batteries L, of the Fourth, and A, of the
Fifth U. S. Artillery, a part of this command, arrived at Bermuda Hundred on
the morning of the 6th of May, and were immediately disembarked, and joined the
First Division about 3 p. m. of that day.

On the 8th day of May the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, Captain George B.
Easterly, reported for duty. Battery K, Third K, Third New York Volunteers
Artillery, was left at Newport News when the command was embarked, and has not
yet reported. On the 6th, by order of Major-General Smith, a section of Battery
L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, under the command of Lieutenant Stelges, reported to
General Heckman for duty, and engaged the enemy for about one hour, with what
success is not known. Loss, 1 man slightly wounded. On the 7th a section of
Battery L, Fourth United States, Lieutenant Hunt commanding, engaged the enemy
near the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, the enemy having four rifled guns in
position. The fire of the section was well directed ,and the enemy, having
changed position several times, was silenced after and engagement of about one
hour, without loss to us; enemy's loss unknown. On Monday, May 9, Battery A, of
the Fifth U. S. Artillery, and the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, were ordered to
report to General Martindale, commanding brigade. Battery L, Fourth U. S.
Artillery, Lieutenant J. S. Hunt commanding, remained under the immediate
command of General Brooks, commanding First Division.

On the 9th and 10th four guns of this battery (Battery L, Fourth U. S.
Artillery) were engaged at different time s in shelling a bridge on the
Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, with but little apparent damage to the
bridge, though the fire evidently prevented the enemy from placing a battery
at the end of the bridge held by them. On the 9th the Fourth Wisconsin Battery
engaged an earth-work of the enemy near the Appomattox River, at a distance of
2,300 yards, the enemy opposing the battery with one 32-pounder gun. The fire
of the Fourth Wisconsin silenced that of the enemy after an engagement of one
hour. The battery did not sustain any loss. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
was not engaged. On the 13th the whole command moved on the Richmond and
Petersburg turnpike, toward Richmond. Near the Half-Way House Battery L lost 1
horse, being posted in a field near the turnpike in the rear of Battery E,
Third New York Volunteer Artillery, which was engaged with the enemy. On the
14th Battery L, Fourth United State, and the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, were
engaged in shelling an earth-work of the enemy near Drewry's Bluff. Here, the
batteries being subjected to the fire of a battery of the enemy concealed by
the woods, 1 man was wounded in the Fourth Wisconsin Battery by the explosion
of a case-shot. On the 15th none of the batteries of the command were engaged.
Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, and the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, were
posted on a hill about 900 yards from and in rear of the position of the day
previous. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was in position on the right of the
turnpike and about 1,000 yards in front of the earth-work of the enemy. On the
16th the three batteries of the command were in position in line to the right of and
front of the Half-Way House. At daybreak the fog was so dense as to render artillery
almost useless, and about one hour after daybreak the command was withdrawn, by
command of Major-General Smith, to a hill about 1, 200 yards in rear of the
Half-Way House, on the left of the turnpike. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
Lieutenant Beecher commanding, was ordered to the front occupied by the battery
in the morning. An attack was made by the enemy, in the repulse of which
Battery A was engaged, using canister at 400 yards. On the afternoon of this
day the command returned to its present camp, with the exception of one section
of the Fourth Wisconsin and one section of Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
ordered to report to General Gillmore, which sections joined the command that
night.

The losses of the command have been previously reported. From remaining
constantly in harness, the necks of the artillery horses are much galled.

Respectfully submitted.
THEO. H. SCHENCK,
Major , Commanding Arty. Brigadier , First Div., 18th Army Corps.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS.HASKIN'S DIV., 22nd ARMY CORPS,}
DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON, No.56.} Washington, May 25,1864.

1. Company B, Knap's artillery battalion Pennsylvania Volunteers, having
reported for duty at these headquarters, is hereby assigned to Fort Meigs, and
will relieve the detachment of the Ninth Company Massachusetts Artillery, at
that post. The commanding officer of Company B will report to Captain Allen, at
Fort Baker.
2. The detachment of the Ninth Company Massachusetts Artillery, now at Fort
Meigs, will move, without delay, to Fort Du Pont.

3. The detachment of the Ninth Company Massachusetts Artillery,now at Fort Du
Pont, will move without delay to Fort Davis.

By order of Colonel Haskin:
R.CHANDLER, Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Numbers 147. May 30, 1864.

2. Lieutenant Colonel J. A. Monroe, First Rhode Island Artillery, is
temporarily assigned as chief of artillery of the Ninth Corps. He will at once
take charge of it and place it in as efficient condition as practicable. Each
of the rifle batteries of the corps will be reduced to four guns, but will
retain its six caissons. The horses thus rendered disposable will be so
distributed as to horse the batteries as equally as possible. The ammunition in
the limbers of the guns sent back will be retained. The surplus guns and
harness will be sent to the White House by the first empty wagons going to the
rear, and will be shipped by the first opportunity to Washington Arsenal.
Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe will report to Brigadier-General Hunt for further
instructions.

By command of Major-General Meade:
S. WILLIAMS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

Report of Captain John B. Vande Wiele, Fourth New York Heavy Artillery,
Including operations June 12-August 5.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTH NEW YORK ARTILLERY

[June] 13th, halted until 11 a. m.; crossed the Chickahominy and halted at 3.30
p. m. Marched to Doctor Wilcox's farm and bivouacked on the banks of the James
River at 9 p. m. 14th and 15th, worked incessantly day and night loading
transports. 16th, crossed James River at 5 p. m.; rested until 9 a. m. moved up
to the lines in front of Petersburg. Sent out five companies, under command of
Major Williams, as a detail to General Gibbon's division. 18th, ordered
forward; took one line of pits and the road from the enemy. Retained the
position until 11 a. m., when an advance was ordered; the command was repulsed
with severe loss. Relieved at dark and ordered to the rear. 19th and 20th, lay
in second line of pits. 21st, at 4 a. m. moved to field near corps
headquarters. At 10 a. m. marched eight miles, crossing the Jerusalem plank
road; rested until 5 p. m. in edge of woods; fell back a little. Supported
Brown's battery on plank road. Sent three companies on skirmish line. 22d, went
back to Wilson's house at 7 a. m. At 4 p. m. were ordered up to fill gap
between Second and Sixth Corps, at the moment when McKnight's battery and some
regiments were captured by the rebels. Built rifle-pits all night. 23d, at 5 a.
m. were attached to General Gibbon's command. Lay on skirmish line all day;
lost some men killed; ordered to abandon line about 4 p. m., as it was
untenable. Erected a line of pits to west of plank road. Lay there until June
30, when the command was assigned to the First, Second, and Third Brigades,
Third Division, Second Army Corps.

July 1, companies D and L were detached to Artillery Brigade, the former to
serve mortar battery, the latter to guard ammunition train. The remainder of
the command remained on infantry picket duty until 12th of July.

July 13, forty men detailed to Artillery Brigade as cannoneers by order of
General Hancock. Moved from rear of General Hancock's headquarters, and camped
during the day with Third Brigade, Third Division. In the evening were ordered
to report to General Hunt, chief of artillery, and, according to instructions,
marched to woods near General Meade's headquarters and went into reserve camp.
14th, Companies A and M detailed to siege train, Broadway Landing; remainder of
command employed in erecting fortifications, mounting guns, and other similar
fatigue duties until 27th of July. On 27th one company ordered to report to
Major Trumbull, at General Ord's headquarters, to serve battery of six Coehorn
mortars. Daily duty as usual. 28th, rested al day. 29th, Company H detailed to
battery of six 4 1/2-inch guns at Castle Hill redan; Company K detailed to
serve ten Coehorn mortars on Fifth Corps lies. 30th, participated in the grand
assault on Petersburg without suffering any loss. August 1, Company K relieved
from duty with mortars. 2nd, the entire command relieved from the immediate
command of the chief of artillery and ordered to report to Major-General
Hancock. 3rd, received complimentary order from General Hunt, for the
efficiency, skill, and gallantry displayed by the officers and men while under
his orders. 4th, received from Colonel Abbot complimentary letter thanking the
colonel commanding for the cordial co-operation of the regiment whilst under
his orders, and rendering flattering testimony to its gallant conduct in the
engagement of July 30. 5th, Companies A and M returned to the regiment from
duty on Broadway Landing; Companies H and C relieved from duty with batteries.

JOHN B. VANDE WIELE,
Captain, Commanding Fourth New York Artillery.

LINES OF BERMUDA HUNDRED,VA., June 18,1864.

Brigadier General H.J.HUNT,
Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: Your two letters of June 3 and 10 are received, the last to-day.* I
much regret Colonel Kellogg's death, as he was an old friend of mine. I have
seen Mackenzie, of my corps, who succeeds him and we are both very desirous
that the two regiments should be brigaded for the siege train, as first
proposed. We both count on your kind aid in the matter when the guns are
ordered forward. I have now about 1,200 men and he 1,000 for duty. I now have
here forty mantlets - seventeen rope; ten double, iron and wood, and thirteen
single, iron and wood. I much prefer the rope. If the train is ordered forward
it would be desirable to telegraph at once to General Delafield to supply a lot
more rope mantlets as soon as possible. If you can do this it will save time. I
have taken care to draw a large supply of 12-pounder canister-balls for the
mortar shrapnel; I have great confidence in its utility. What are the
probabilities of the train being soon required? I am now in command of the
heavy artillery of these lines, and am also the chief engineer and chief of
artillery for them, so I am too busy to venture to try to see you personally.

Yours, very truly,
HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

Brigadier General J. G. BARNARD,
Chief Engineer, Armies in the Field:

GENERAL: I have received and read the two papers herewith returned.* I
decidedly prefer the rope mantlets. I find by trial at twenty paces that the
penetration of our Springfield rifle, elongated bullet, is between two and two
and five-tenths inches. The mantlets are six inches thick and they are thus
perfectly rifle-proof. Their dimensions are the following, which are very
convenient in practice:

The opening can readily be cut larger if necessary. We have done so at least in
one instance, to enlarge the traverse of the gun in an
oblique embrasure. The men are afraid of splinters from a cannon-ball - and I
think justly so - with the wood and iron mantlets. Moreover, the blast of a
light 12-pounder has already rendered unserviceable one of the iron mantlets of
this pattern. I therefore entirely agree with yourself and General Hunt in
thinking that only rope should be ordered. I think the dimensions cannot be
improved. As to number required, my train proper, which is entirely distinct
from my present guns, consists of forty-six guns requiring mantlets, and ten
8-inch siege howitzers which I think can hardly be used with them. I have here
seventeen rope mantlets and twenty-three wood and iron, one of the latter
unserviceable. As they are very liable to be destroyed, and moreover are quite
useful even for light guns when sharpshooters are as troublesome as they have
been here at times (I have had two men killed besides some wounded in my own
regiment by them already), I think that about 100 could be safely ordered
(besides those I have on hand). They should be made of tarred rope, like the of
ones. The only difficulty is transportation - to load a wagon, with our roads.
However, they have been of great service to me in these batteries.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, June 19, 1864 - 1.30 a. m.

Colonel SHAFFER, Chief of Staff:

My train is afloat at Washington Arsenal in charge of Captain S. P. Hatfield,
First Connecticut Artillery. General Hunt knows all details of its composition.

H. L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

CITY POINT, June 19, 1864 - 10.40 p. m.

Major-General BUTLER:

General Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac, reports that if he had
some 30-pounder Parrott guns he could do excellent service with them. I
understand they would give him control of the railroad bridge. If you have such
a battery I wish you would send it out.

U. S. GRANT,
Lieutenant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS.] HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VA. AND N. C.,
In the Field, June 19, 1864.

The First Connecticut Heavy Artillery and Battery M, Third Pennsylvania
Artillery, will be reported to these headquarters by Colonel H. L. Abbot,
First Connecticut Heavy Artillery.

By command of Major-General Butler:
J. W. SHAFFER,
Colonel and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

June 25, 1864-5.45 p.m. [Sent 6 p.m.]
General BARNARD, Chief Engineer, City Point:

General Burnside wants 7,000 or 8,000 sand-bags to-night. Colonel Comstock says
he understands General Benham has some. Will you cause the number named to be
sent at once to General Burnside, either by General Benham or Colonel Abbot,
whichever can d it soonest. General Ingalls will have to furnish wagons. I have
none to send.

HENRY J.HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS, City Point, June 25, 1864-6.40 p.m.
General H.J.HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac:

General Benham is under the orders of General Meade, and I have as yet no
control over his depot. There ought to be 100,000 sand-bags somewhere. Apply to
General Meade. If he cannot supply you, I will see if some cannot be had from
Weitzel.

J.G.BARNARD.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, June 25, 1864. [Received 8.10 p.m.]
Brigadier-General BENHAM:

General Meade desires that 7,000 sand-bags be sent to-night to General
Burnside. I have sent to Colonel Comstock and General Barnard, who refer me to
you. Will you have them sent up soon as possible. I have no wagons. General
Ingalls, on application, will furnish transportation. Please acknowledge
receipt and action.

HENRY J.HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ENGINEER BRIGADE, City Point, June 25, 1864-8.10 p.m.
General HENRY J.HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Hdqrs. Army of the Potomac:

All my siege materials, as I have kept General Meade fully advised, have been
retained at Fort Monroe. On receipt of your dispatch to General Barnard, through
Colonel Porter, I at once sent an aide down in a steamer to bring it up, and I expect
it to-morrow afternoon or evening, and will send them out to you at once, if you then
wish them, of which please advise me.

H.W.BENHAM,
Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, June 25,1864.
Colonel ABBOT, Commanding Siege Train:

Can you suggest a good chief of artillery to me from the Army of the Potomac or
elsewhere?

WM.F.SMITH,
Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, June 25, 1864-10.30 p.m.
Major General W.F.SMITH, Commanding Eighteenth Corps:

I cannot at present. The law requires that the senior artillery officer of the
corps shall be chief for the corps, which often complicates matters.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, June 25, 1864.
Colonel ABBOT:

The general desires that you send Burnside 7,000 sand-bags if you have them.
Please inform me how many you have, by bearer. If you have no transportation
arrange it as you best can or call on General Ingalls here.

C.B.COMSTOCK,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, June 25, 1864.
Colonel C.B.COMSTOCK, Aide-de-Camp:

COLONEL: I made requisition for 25,000 sand-bags-5,000 for each gun, excluding
the 100-pounders. How many were actually obtained I cannot say without seeing
my ordnance officer, who is now at Broadway Landing. I have no transportation
for them. I would suggest that you direct General Ingalls to send
transportation to the Broadway Landing [one mile below the pontoon bridge], and
let the wagon-master carry an order for Captain S.P.Hatfield, ordnance officer
of siege train, to issue the required number of bags to General Burnside. I
think this plan would save much time. These bags, I hope, will be replaced, as
I find I shall be obliged to supply them for my embrasures. Several times
to-day I have been much inconvenienced by having no telegraphic communication
with Broadway Landing. The wire crosses the river there to General Butler's
headquarters so that an operator is all that is needed. I shall move my
headquarters there on Monday, and I shall need a very large detail of orderlies
if the operator cannot be supplied. My guns are now in position from the James
River to Petersburg and I receive many telegrams which require prompt attention.
If you can help me to an operator it will be of very great assistance.

Your obedient servant,
HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

CITY POINT, VA., June 25, 1864.
Colonel ABBOT:

Have you 8,000 sand-bags to send to General Burnside at once?

J.G.BARNARD,
Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY, June 25, 1864-10 p.m.
Brigadier-General BARNARD, General Grant's Headquarters:

I only have a few sand-bags which I provided for my own batteries. Probably
General Weitzel can supply those required by General Burnside.

HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

SPECIAL ORDERS, } HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
No.43. City Point, June 27,1864.

In all siege operations about Petersburg, south of the Appomattox, Brigadier
General H.J. Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac, will have general
charge and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. Colonel H.L. Abbot, in
charge of siege train, will report to General Hunt for orders.

By command of Lieutenant-General Grant:
T.S. BOWERS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

Report of Captain James H. Wood, Fourth New York Heavy Artillery,
Commanding Mortar Battery, of operations June 12-21.
IN CAMP, NEAR PETERSBURG, VA., July 1, 1864.

LIEUTENANT:*
On the 12th of June the whole battery was ordered out of position. Lieutenant
Bradt's pieces immediately joined the ammunition train, reaching it at 12 m.,
and marched across the Chickahominy and James Rivers to Petersburg, reaching
the rear of our lines at 2.30 a. m. of the 18th of June.

The section in charge of Captain Jones being unable, by reason of the
persistency of the enemy's fire, to leave its position, did not withdraw until
the evening of the 12th, and accompanied by the artillery of the Second Corps
reached the front of Petersburg on the 16th day of June. In the forenoon of the
17th the section took position in front of the enemy's lines at a distance of
150 yards and on the left of the Second Corps. At 1 p. m. the section opened
fire on the rebels at an assumed distance of 300 yards with three and a half
ounces of powder and 10-second fuse. The firing was successful. At 2 p. m.,
immediately after the firing of one of the mortars, Captain Jones arose to
witness the effect of the shot. He was struck in the forehead by the bullet of
a rebel sharpshooter. He never spoke afterward, and at 5 p. m. breathed his
last. Thus was slain a brave and efficient officer and a courteous gentleman.
At 3 p. m. Captain James H. Wood, of Battery C, Fourth
New York Artillery, was placed in command of the mortar battery and,
accompanied by Captain Miller, inspector of artillery, advanced, under a
terrific artillery fire, to assume command. At 5 p. m. a charge was made by a
brigade of the Ninth Corps, directly in front of the section in charge of
Captain Wood. The assault was repulsed, and a rebel battery at a distance of
about 900 yards played upon the retreating columns with murderous effect. The
mortars were trained upon the rebel battery, with a charge of six ounces of
powder and 18-second fuse. The result was the silencing of the rebel guns and
the blowing up of a rebel caisson. The colonel commanding the brigade,
addressing Captain Wood, said, "Your mortars have saved my brigade."

In the afternoon of June 19 the sections in command of Lieutenant Bradt were
ordered into position in front of Petersburg at about 250 yards' distance from
the rebel lines. The firing was calculated at 250 yards with three and a half
ounces charge and 10-second fuse. The practice was entirely satisfactory.

On the 21st of June the sections were all brought together on the Hare farm.
In the foregoing report there may be inconsistencies in the distances, the size
of charges and the length of fuses. This can all be accounted for by the fact
that the first supply of powder was not equal in strength to that subsequently
obtained, and the cartridges were made partly from the one and partly from the
other. The last supply (the former being now all expended) is considered
reliable, so that the firing can hereafter be considered as reduced almost to a
mathematical certainty.

JAMES H. WOOD,
Captain, Commanding Mortar Battery.
ACTG. ASST. ADJT. General , ARTY. Brigadier , SECOND CORPS.

Report of Colonel John C. Tidball, Fourth New York Heavy
Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade.

IN FRONT OF PETERSBURG, VA.,

July 1, 1864.

May 3.-Left camp near Stevensburg, Va., at 8.30 p.m., moving the Artillery
Brigade to Madden's house, where it halted; as the divisions passed the
batteries assigned to them reported and fell into the column. The reserve
battery and foot artillery marched in rear of the Third Division.

May 4.-Crossed the Rapidan at 9 a.m. and moved out on the Chancellorsville
road, arriving at Chancellorsville at 2 p.m. Brown's and Arnold's batteries
being found in a bad position, were changed. The reserve battery and foot
artillery camped at Fair View, one-half mile off.

May 5.-Moved at daylight on the road leading to the Furnace, passed it, and
arrived at Todd's Tavern at 12 m., waited orders for one hour, and then moved
by the Brock road in the direction of Wilderness Tavern. At 2 p.m. the enemy
were met near the plank road crossing. Captains Dow's and Edgell's batteries
were immediately placed in position in the woods, 75 yards in rear of the line
of battle of Mott's division, which extend along the south side of the Brock
road. An opening was cut in front of them and a road in rear joining the plank
road. General Getty being hard pressed and his artillery not being at hand,
Captain Ricketts was directed to report to him with his battery. At this time
General Hancock met Colonel Tidball and told him that certain high ground,
open, about a mile back, must be occupied. All the remaining batteries, six, of
the corps were here halted and put in position, Captain Ames' battery,
supported by the heavy artillery, forming the extreme left of the line. A short
time after the line was extended still farther to the left, and Captain
Sleeper's battery placed in position, supported by Colonel Miles' brigade, of
Barlow's division. The position was then as follows, commencing on the left:
Sleeper, Ames, who was at this time retired to a crest forming the second line;
Arnold, Brown, Roder, and Gilliss. In reserve Gibbon's division. This line of
artillery was supported by Barlow's division. In about an hour one brigade of
Barlow's division was sent into action, rendering it necessary to shorten the
line. All of Sleeper's battery was withdrawn, except a section from the extreme
left, and the four guns placed in reserve in rear of Arnold's battery, and the
heavy artillery in position to support Ames. At dark, orders came to withdraw
all the artillery, except Roder's battery, which was on Gibbon's left; all the
other batteries were taken back into an open field in rear of Gibbon's right
and parked for the night. The foot artillery were left as a support to Roder's
battery, and a regiment of Barlow's also. There was no artillery firing this
day, except some solid shot by Dow.

May 6.-The batteries moved out at 4 o'clock and took their positions of the day
before, Gilliss remaining in the field where the artillery had been parked. The
position for the artillery had been fortified the day before, and this work was
now strengthened. At 9 o'clock the Third and Fourth Divisions made an attack,
Dow's battery throwing solid shot over their heads as they advanced. They
were driven back into the intrenchments. At the time of this attack General
Gibbon, who was in command of the left, required a battery to take up an
enfilading position on the right of Roder. Gilliss' battery was here placed and
strongly intrenched. No firing was done during the day until 2 o'clock, when
Sleeper fired a few shots at a battery of the enemy which was shelling our
cavalry, and apparently caused it to change its position. At 4 o'clock a rebel
battery opened on Sleeper's from the edge of the woods, about 1,400 yards off,
but was driven off in a few minutes by the fire of Sleeper's battery and before
damaging anything. At 5.30 o'clock the enemy made an attack on our forces on
the Brock road, charging after the fire and succeeding in crossing over the
breast-works in front of Dow's and Edgell's batteries, but were driven back
with great slaughter by the canister fire of the batteries. Ricketts' battery
was engaged during the day and lost a gun, which was recaptured by Carroll's
brigade. He also burst the muzzle off of one piece, which was afterward buried
at Todd's Tavern. The other batteries simply remained in position, but did not
fire a shot. The supports of the artillery during the day consisted of Barlow's
division, which was continually changing position. At night it was reported
that the enemy was massing on our left, infantry and artillery, and
dispositions were made accordingly by the infantry.

May 7.-The artillery held the same position all day, Dow firing solid shot
occasionally into the woods in his front. He was resupplied with ammunition. At
night orders for a movement came, when division batteries were ordered to
report to their division commanders.

May 8.-The Ninth and Fifth Corps having passed, at 6 o'lcock the heavy
artillery and reserve batteries moved, following the Fourth Division, Mott;
Birney brought up the rear, and Gibbon led, followed by Barlow. The troops took
the road to Todd's Tavern, where they arrived at 12 m., and the artillery was
massed in the open field around the tavern. The troops rested for two hours,
and were then put in position in a semi-circle round the tavern. The left
rested on the Spotsylvania road, and the right at the junction of the Brock
with the Furnace road. About 5 in the evening an attack was made by a division
of the enemy, and Roder's battery was placed on the right of the tavern, 600
yards, one section on each of the roads and one section more retired. The
infantry fortified themselves very strongly, as did the artillery. At dark the
batteries were in position, Dow and Ames on Mott's line, the Brock and Furnace
road, placed there by Mott; Ricketts' battery in the field near the tavern, the
guns pointed at it. Roder, Sleeper, and Arnold parked on the right of the
tavern, Brown, Edgell, and Gilliiss, the heavy artillery supporting Ricketts.
At 10 p.m. General Hancock sent for Colonel Tidball to intrench the position at
the tavern; Arnold, Brown, Roder, and Sleeper were placed in strong works in
rear of the tavern, between it and the second line of infantry, forming a third
line. Ricketts' position was changed so as to fire to the front-Gilliss.

May 9.-The enemy developed a strong force in Birney's front, and the foot
artillery was put in the rifle-pits on the second line. The artillery retained
the same positions. No attack was made, and at 12 m. the corps moved 2 miles
south of the Spotsylvania road, and took position on the north side of the Po
River. Captain Edgell's battery was moved to the crest of a hill commanding a
view of the road on which the enemy were retreating, and fire was opened with effect.
At 4o'clock a crossing was made by Barlow's Birney's, and Gibbon's divisions, a
section of Ames' battery being taken down to

the river to support the movement. An hour before this a section of Arnold's
battery, under Lieutenant Hunt, had an artillery duel with a rebel battery,
finally driving it away from its position on the other side of the Po. The
troops then rested for the night.

May 10.-The troops were across the river. Brown's battery had a sharp fight on
the extreme right of Birney, as did Arnold's. Gibbon's and Birney's divisions
moved to the support of the Fifth Corps, leaving Barlow to hold the position
south of the Po. A section of Sleeper's battery opened on the enemy's works, as
did Brown's battery. The batteries attached to divisions moved with them to the
left and were parked. Roder and Sleeper were parked in rear of the line under
heavy fire, Captain Sleeper losing some men. At this time the enemy attacked
Barlow, who had in his front line of battle one section of Brown's and one of
Arnold's batteries. In the retiring of our forces one gun of Arnold's battery
was lost. Colonel Tidball was directed to mass his artillery on the north bank
of the Po, to protect Barlow's recrossing. Rittenhouse's battery, of the Fifth
Corps, was already in position. Edgell was put with Sleeper and Arnold in a
second line. The first line was Brown, Roder, and one section of Gilliss; four
guns of Gilliss in reserve. Orders were given that when the first line retired
it should be by the right flank, so that the second line could open. Brown,
Roder, and Beck's section opened on the enemy with solid shot over the heads of
our troops with effect. A rebel battery opened a severe enfilading fire, and
Rittenhouse attempted to silence it. Edgell was sent to his assistance and
drove it away immediately, blowing up one limber; each time that it opened it
was silenced by Edgell's fire with great promptness. Our line having recrossed
the river, the enemy advanced to take the vacated works. A heavy fire was
opened on them with much effect, but they advanced under it and took the works.
Word was brought at this time that a heavy force was moving on our flank.
Captain Ames' battery was put in position and the foot artillery deployed as
skirmishers, there being no infantry at hand. They engaged those of the enemy
until relieved by infantry. A new line was now taken up for the night, and two
batteries of the Sixth Corps and Ames' were placed in position, supported by
Miles' brigade and the heavy artillery. The batteries of the Sixth had been
preceded in this position by two of the Fifth, Rittenhouse and Cooper.

May 11.-Moved during the night, conducted by Captain Paine, to the Fifth Corps
hospital.

May 12.-By daylight advanced and took position in breast-works of Second Corps.
Sleeper reported to Captain Mendell, charge of Second Corps, to take position
at the deserted house. Advance of Arnold to first line. Brought up Ames and
Brown, placed them to the right and left of Landrum's house. Sent Gilliss to
Tompkins (section disabled). Section of Brown and two of Ames' advanced to
first line and did good work; brought up Dow and Ricketts to secondl line
(Landrum's). Brought up Sleeper and parked in rear of house. Roder relieved
Gilliss, who went to the rear to refit. Ames brought off nine guns with his
horses, got off Gilliss' guns, and brought heavy artillery in the evening to
intrench Roder and support him. Captain Clark reported at night, battery parked
in rear of rear house. Edgell all day with Fifth Corps in rear line, parked at
night with Clark. Arnold parked in rear of Ricketts.

May 13.-No fighting or change of position until 3 p.m. Heavy artillery and
intrenching tools taken to extreme right. Also Roder, Edgell, Sleeper, and
Gilliss, all supported by Birney. Held position.

May 14.-Moved all the batteries across the Ny River, in rear of Sixth Corps,
and massed near Harris' house; remained all day. in evening came orders taking
batteries from divisions.

May 16.-Lay still all day. Sleeper, Roder, and Edgell with Birney.

May 17.-Moved to Anderson's Mill by concealed road at 4 p.m.; grazed and
parked. At 11 p.m. moved back to Harris' house.

May 18.-Moved from Harris' house to the deserted house, and Roder, Ames, and
Ricketts to Landrum's. Send Edgell's battery to Colonel Tompkins. Brown, Roder,
and Ames, in first line, silenced rebel battery; 12m., still in position. Clark
and Ricketts moved down to works on extreme right. Edgell already there with
Birney's division. The other six batteries, with trains, &c., moved back to
Anderson's house, under command of Major Hazard, who had reported May 17 with
Burton's and McKnigh's batteries. Moved with Tyler's division and camped near
general headquarters. The other batteries, under charge of chief of artillery,
withdrew to the same camp at dark. This day batteries reduced to four guns.

May 19.-Brigade moved down near Anderson's Bridge and camped with rest of
corps. At 5 p.m. a battery was sent for to repel attack on our right. Clark's
sent very promptly.. Staff officer of General Hunt's came in half an hour for
three more batteries. Arnold, Dow, and Sleeper, all under charge of Major
Hazard, went up, all the rest were ordered to be ready to move at a moment's
notice, and Gilliss and Burton were ordered up and put in reserve in rear of
line of battle. At dark all the batteries, except Captain Clark's and
McKnight's, withdrew and returned to camp. They remained with Birney's
division, under charge of Major Hazard.

May 20.-Order for movement. Two batteries ordered to each division. Order
countermanded. Batteries stood in harness all night, and at daylight Clark and
McKnight withdrew after Clark had fired half a dozen shots. The enemy having
disappeared from their front, batteries were ordered to unhitch and unharness.
Order for march at 11 p.m, and train sent to rear, and battery wagons moved.
Reserve artillery in rear of Fourth Division, followed by extra caissons and
foot artillery.

May 21.-Arrived at Milford at 1 p.m., took position, Tyler left, Gibbon center,
Barlow right. No artillery with Tyler. Gilliss and Edgell with Gibbon, Gilliss
on right, the other in center of his line. Dow and Sleeper on left, Roder and
McKnight in center, and Brown, supported by foot artillery, on right of
Barlow's line. Strong intrenchments thrown up by batteries and by the Fourth
Artillery, on the right of Brown. Later, Arnold, Ricketts, and Clark with
Tyler, on the left.

May 22.-Small reconnaissance accompanied by section of Gilliss' battery. Lay
still the rest of the day. Issued rations.

May 23.-Ordered to move at daylight. The reserve (Roder Ames, Sleeper and
Edgell, Brown, and McKnight) with Barlow, Gilliss and Burton with Gibbon, Clark
and Arnold with Birney, Dow and Ricketts with Tyler. Arrived at 1.30 at North
Anna River. The reserve batteries, put in position on the right, supported by
Mott's brigade, opened fire on rebel battery and silenced it on right.
In center near road to bridge, Dow. Arnold on left of Birney's line,
Brown out in front, Gilliss in reserve in rear of them. Ricketts, Burton, and
McKnight and Clark on Tyler's line. Opened fire in the evening with effect,
covering the charge of Birney. After the captured of the works, a rifle battery
crossed, and afterward Ames.

May 24.-Birney sent for another battery. Roder sent. During the morning Edgell
and Sleeper were moved down in front on right of railroad. Major Hazard moved
Burton, Clark, McKnight, and Ricketts down in front of the line of infantry.
Burnside's batteries relieved ours on the right on the 24th, in the morning.
Birney at noon sent for more batteries. Gilliss sent. Then Edgell and Sleeper.
Major Hazard moved Clark and Ricketts on the extreme left, Ricketts in reserve;
also moved Brown over on left of brick house, also Arnold, Burton, and
McKnight. Five p.m., Ames, Roder, and Gilliss on the island. Arnold, McKnight,
Burton, Brown, and one section of Edgell in front line, the other in reserve.
Sleeper in part on Brown's left. Clark on the extreme left if Gibbon. Ricketts
in his rear in reserve. Dow north of the river in the woods near the Telegraph
road. Enemy opened fire on the position near brick house; silenced by a section
of Edgell and by Arnold. Brown moved up on left of railroad, on front of
infantry, Barlow. Did not fire. Clark did good service.

May 25.-Clark and Ricketts relieved at daylight by Dow and Sleeper. Brown moved
over to right of railroad, a little advanced. Edgell, Burton, McKnight, and
Arnold advanced to first line at 9 a.m. Third Battalion, Fourth New York
Artillery, Clark, and Ricketts near pontoon bridge. Ames, Roder, and Gilliss on
island. At 1 p.m. one section of Clark put in position on left of railroad,
Barlow's line. Mortar battery reported at 9 p.m.

May 26.-Mortar battery put in position on right of Roder and strongly
intrenched. Third Battalion, Fourth New York Artillery, moved back with train 1
mile north of river at 4 p.m. At 7 p.m. ordered to move. Brown and Edgell
assigned to Barlow; Dow and Sleeper assigned to Gibbon; McKnight and Gilliss
assigned to Birney. All others ordered to park at 8.30 p.m. in rear of center
of old line.

May 27.-Marched at 9 a.m.; arrived 4 miles north of Pamunkey River at night;
parked.

May 28.-Marched in same order, and crossed the river and took position near
Elliott's house; reserve batteries, &c., parked in rear of Second Corps line
of battle. At 11 a.m. Burton ordered to report to General Birney forward, in
rear of Colonel Shelton's house, on the creek.

May 29.-Remained so all day.

May 30.-At 6 a.m., details from the batteries and foot artillery with
intrenching tools commenced throwing up works for artillery in front, and to
the right and left of the Shelton house. The enemy shelled slightly, but did no
damage. These works were on the skirmish line, and were prepared for Arnold on
the left, Roder on his right, and Coehorn mortars in front of the house. Roder
went into position without support at 11 a.m., Arnold at 12 m., and the mortars
soon after, between them. Ricketts and Clark had the positions for their guns
ready, but awaited the movement of the infantry. The foot artillery, Second and
Third Battalions, took position between the house and mill-pond, supporting the
batteries.

The Second Battalion reported early on the morning of the 29th. In the afternoon
Miles' brigade moved up to the front line, and Ames' battery was ordered to
prepare to move there. In afternoon Ricketts, Clark, and Fourth New York
Artillery on right of main road. Roder, Arnold, and mortars on left of main
road; heavy fire from enemy from 1 to 4 p.m. replied to all afternoon with
success. Particularly heavy fire at 6.25, lasting twenty-five minutes.
Batteries did not open; were in position with their division commands.

May 31.-McKnight's (Third Division) battery was ordered over the creek to
support Birney, who had taken the works, and did good execution, until his
ammunition gave out, at 700 yards; was relieved by Roder, who did good work,
the enemy falling back to his main line of works. Four mortars were ordered
over, but did no firing. No other change except Burton, who supported Birney's
advance. No further change during the day. At 8 p.m. ordered to establish a
line of artillery on Birney's advance line-in works to be built-three batteries
to go at 3 a.m., the 1st.

June 1.-Order countermanded. Ordered to withdraw to west side of creek.
Recountermanded at 11.30. At 1.30 the order was again countermanded. No
batteries moved under these orders. Roder and the mortars returned across the
creek at 11.30 p.m., May 31. Roder and Burton placed in reserve. Mortars turned
over to Captain Jones, Company D, Fourth New York Artillery. At dark the
reserve batteries withdrew, Roder, Ames, Clark, McKnight, Burton, and Edgell,
and marched by way of Harris' Store toward Cold Harbor. Parked near army
headquarters, followed by Fourth New York Artillery; other batteries assigned
to divisions.

June 2.-Arrived at Cold Harbor and parked reserve artillery. Second Corps took
the left of the line. Divisions posted; Gibbon right, Barlow left, Birney
reserve. Batteries on the lines of the divisions.

June 3.-Assaults made by Birney and Barlow at daylight. Dow in position and
doing good service. At 7 a.m. Clark ordered to take position on the right of
Dow and open fire. Brown put in on Barlow's left, Arnold on his right. Roder
put in at 9 a.m. on Brown's left and Edgell on the extreme left. Sleeper was on
the extreme right, Birney, with Ricketts and Gilliss, in reserve. The
Eighteenth Corps sent for a battery; McKnight sent. Birney reported to General
Smith, taking his batteries. Burton at 4 p.m. placed on the right of Edgell.
The Fourth Artillery moved at the same time to rifle-pits in rear of Gibbon's
line. At 2 p.m. positions selected for mortars (two) were taken on the left of
the road, in charge of Captain Jones, doing good execution. At 6 p.m.
positions, at which strong works were to be built, were selected, commencing on
the right; Edgell to be advanced 200 yards, Sleeper on his left. Clark and Dow
advanced 200 yards on his left, Barlow's right. Brown, Roder, and Burton at the
big pine tree, farther to the left. Arnold nearly in front of Brown. The
mortars to the right of the road, 40 yards from the enemy's lines. All these
batteries to be in these positions at daylight next morning. In the attack at 8
p.m. the batteries did good execution in shelling them.

June 4.-All in position except Edgell and Arnold, who was placed too far to the
front, and afterward moved farther back. The works were to be built by working
parties of the Fourth New York Artillery. McKnight reported back and supplied
with ammunition; Gilliss also. Ricketts removed with Eighteenth Corps. Ames had
been ordered in position where the mortars were, but countermanded. Everything
ordered to open at 1.30 and fire one hour. Did so with effect, 1 shot every two
minutes, afterward 1 shot from each battery every fifteen minutes until dark.
Attack on Barlow's line at dark, in which Arnold did good execution. The works
on Sleeper's right being finished, Edgell moved in at night.

June 5.-At daylight McKnigh took position in Edgell's old placed. Captain Jones
at 12 m. had only 26 rounds left; attack made at 8.30 p.m. repulsed; artillery
opened heavily. During the afternoon a work was built on the left of Arnold,
and at dark Arnold was withdrawn and replaced by Ames. No other changes.

June 6.-At daylight Burton went into the new work on Ames' left. Gilliss moved
to the extreme left with Birney and took position near the mill pond.

June 7.-Captain Stevens' battery of light 12-pounders reported and was sent to
General Birney, the extreme left.

June 8.-Captain Arnold left and Lieutenant Dwight took command of battery.
Captain Ricketts returned and was placed in position on the right and a little
in rear of Dow. Mortar ammunition arrived and Captain Jones, who had yesterday
permanently assumed command of the mortar battery, was supplied with
ammunition, as were all batteries, 3-inch and light 12-pounders. Full rations
of vegetables issued.

June 9.-No change. The mortars fired 15 shots during the day, with very good results.

June 10.-Four mortars placed on the left and front of Ricketts, the other two
left in their old position.

June 11.-No change except the withdrawal of Dow.

JNO. C. TIDBALL,
Colonel Fourth New York Artillery, Commanding Brigade.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA,
Numbers 120. } Charleston, W. Va., July 2, 1864.

6. Brigadier General A. N. Duffie will detail one regiment to serve as an
escort to the Artillery Brigade, commanded by Captain H. A. Du Pont, chief of
artillery, during its march to Parkersburg, W. Va.

The commanding officer of the regiment will confer with Captain Du Pont
relative to the march, and regulate the marches of his regiment to correspond
with those of the artillery.

8. The Artillery Brigade, commanded by Captain H. A. Du Point, U. S. Army,
will proceed by march to Parkersburg, on arriving at which place it will be
furnished with transportation by rail to Martinsburg, where Captain Du Pont
will report to the commanding officer for orders.

12. Captain H. A. Du Pont, Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery, is hereby
authorized to send 120 superfluous men of his command with 3 supernumerary
officers to Martinsburg, W. Va., with the infantry division of Brigadier
General J. C. Sullivan. The quartermaster's department will furnish the
necessary transportation.

By order of Major General D. Hunter:
CHAS. G. HALPINE, Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 3,1864.

Brigadier General H.J. HUNT, Chief of Artillery:
Major DUANE, Chief Engineer:

The lieutenant-general commanding is desirous of knowing whether any offensive
operations from the lines now held by this army are practicable.
Major-General Burnside, who is now running a gallery for a mine, is of the
opinion that if successful in this operation an assault could be made to
advantage. I desire you to carefully examine the proposed point of attack,
after conferring with General Burnside, and furnish me with your views.
You will please give me your views at the earliest possible moment, that the
necessary orders may be issued and requisitions made. Both Generals Warren and
Burnside have been notified of your instructions and directed to confer with
you and facilitate your operations.

Respectfully, yours,
GEO. G. MEADE,
Major-General, Commanding.

ORDNANCE OFFICE, July 4, 1864.

Respect returned to the Secretary of War.

The experience with wrought-iron rifled field guns is most favorable to their
endurance and efficiency. They cost less than steel, and stand all the charges
we wish to impose upon them. For smooth-bore field guns, bronze is good enough,
and the material valuable after the guns become, from any cause,
unserviceable, more so than steel. No instance has occurred during the war
where they have been so severely tested of the 12-pounder bronze gun having
worn out or of its bursting. There are considerations to be well weighed before
committing the Department to any large purchase of steel guns. The large steel
guns made by Krupp for the Russian Government are said not to come up to
expectation. We should, therefore, not accept the virtue of steel as an
established fact until it is thoroughly tried in the forms in which it is to be
used. I cannot, therefore, for the present recommend that an order be given to
exceed one battery of six 12- pounder steel guns, and these for experimental
purposes.

GEO. D. RAMSAY, Brigadier-General and Chief of Ordnance.

FORT DUNCAN, MD., July 4, 1864-5.30 p. m.
Captain H. M. BURLEIGH, Assistant Adjutant-General:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report a heavy column of dust on the road from
Charlestown to Halltown, nearly the whole distance. A dispatch from the Stone
Fort, just received, states that General Sigel's advance is two miles above in
Pleasant Valley instead of on this side, as I reported before. My information
this noon came via a German I sent out with others as a picket; this from the
signal officer. Plenty of sharpshooters opposite this fort. My men have laid
out seven of them, and I have had none hit so far. Am I not throwing away
ammunition? We have not seen anything worthy a 30-pound shell so far top-day,
though I think and know we have killed some. I have ordered three guns of
Furst's battery to the left of Battery Sullivan to assist in covering the ford
above pontoon bridge. If you evacuate, can you destroy the railroad bridge and
take up the pontoon? If not, send me word, and I will open on them from
Sullivan and Furst's batteries. Four of Miner's guns (3-inch) are in epaulement
half way to foot of mountain, on the line of rifle-pits, and covering
Sharpsburg road. The other two are to the right of Battery Sullivan, firing
occasionally above Bolivar. Will it do to throw shell into or over Bolivar? The
d-d town is full of rebels.

I am, captain, respectfully, &c.,
G. F. MERRIAM, Fifth New York Artillery and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS,
Fort Duncan, July 6, 1864 - 9. 30 a. m.
Captain BURLEIGH, Assistant Adjutant-General:

CAPTAIN: I applied for the following men last night, and understood General
Weber that he would furnish them from the Second Battalion, Fifth [New York]
Artillery: 100 are here, 60 at Battery Sullivan, and 200 at Stone Fort. If I
am to have the rest, and I want them, and 100 more here, 40 to Battery
Sullivan, 80 to Spur Battery, 100 to the 100-pounder, and 100 to Stone Fort.
The above to be sent will make what I want for a support. I recapitulate the
whole required: Fort Duncan, 200 men; Battery Sullivan, 80 men; Spur Battery,
80 men; 30-pounder battery, 60 men; mortar battery, 50 men; 100-pounder
battery, 100 men; Stine Fort, 300 men; total, 870. Already distributed, 380.
Now wanted, 490. If I have these men they are to be subject to my orders. I
do not want to have the field officers to control any battery or to countermand
any order of mine.

Respectfully, &c. ,
G. F. MERRIAM, Major and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES MARYLAND HEIGHTS,
Fort Duncan, Md. , July 8,1864.
Captain H. M. BERLEIGH, Assistant Adjutant-General:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in obedience to order of Major-General
Sigel I have ordered the Second Battalion, Fifth New York Artillery, to be
relieved from duty as support to the defenses and to report at Camp Hill, Va. ,
for duty. As they will soon be in camp, I have to request that a proper
officer be placed in command of the battalion and I be relieved from their
command. I have also to report that I directed the commanding officer of the
engineer company to lay his pontoon bridge as quickly as possible. Captain
Rosney, Battery D, First Pennsylvania Light Artillery, has been ordered to
return to his old camp-ground at Camp Hill.

I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,
G. F. MERRIAM, Major and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS DEFENSES OF MARYLAND HEIGHTS,
Fort Duncan, July 9,1864.
Captain H. M. BURLEIGH, Assistant Adjutant-General:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the captain of the canalboat which
lies near here states that he went to his house in Sharpsburg this a. m. ,
where he learned that about 1,000 or 1,500 rebels were guarding a large lot of
stores they had collected in the vicinity at or near Shepherdstown, on the
Maryland side of the Potomac ; that their pickets were up to Sharpsburg, and
that they might soon move.

I am, captain, respectfully, yours, &c. ,
G. F. MERRIAM, Major and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 6,1864.

Major-General HUMPHREYS,
Chief of Staff:

SIR:
We have the honor to make the following report of an examination of the
enemy's lines in front of the Fifth and Ninth Corps in compliance with
instructions of the commanding general given in a letter dated July 3:

The general direction of the enemy's line from the front of the Hare house to
the plank road is north and south. The line is indented and apparently well
flanked. From the plank road the line runs in a southwesterly direction. The
salient thus formed is on a commanding ridge, which overlooks and flanks, by
the artillery fire, the work in front of the Ninth Corps. It would, therefore,
appear that the first attack should be made from the front of the Fifth Corps.
When the first line of the enemy's works at this point has been taken or their
fire silenced, the attack by the Ninth Corps may be commenced. The enemy's
front had been very much strengthened. It consists of a system of redoubts
connected by infantry parapets; the ground in front obstructed by abatis,
stakes, and entanglements, rendering an assault impracticable; regular
approached must, therefore, be resorted to. It is probable that the siege will
be a long one, inasmuch as soon as one line of works is carried another equally
strong will be found behind it, and this will continue until ridge is attained
which looks into the town.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General, Chief of Artillery.
J.C. DUANE, Major of Engineers.

GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON,
TWENTY-SECOND ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 58.} Washington, D.C. , July 13, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel J. A. Haskin, aide-de-camp, is hereby announced as
chief of artillery of this department. He will be obeyed and respected
accordingly.

By command of Major-General Augur:
C. H. RAYMOND,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General.
CITY POINT, VA. , July 13, 1864.

Major TOMPKINS,
Commanding Artillery Brigade, Sixth Corps:

You will please take four of your batteries (two batteries of rifled guns and
two batteries of smooth-bore guns) and proceed without delay to Baltimore, Md.
reporting to Major General E. O. C. Ord, commanding Middle Department,
for duty. You will accompany the batteries in person.

By command of Lieutenant-General Grant:
E. S. PARKER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

CITY POINT, VA. , July 15, 1864. (Received 3 p. m. 16th.)
Major General E. O. C. ORD,
Washington, D. C. :

Four batteries of the Sixth Corps, Major Tompkins commanding, left here
yesterday morning for Baltimore. Please under them to return at once to this
point without debarking.

U. S. GRANT,
Lieutenant-General.

ORDNANCE OFFICE, July 15, 1864.

Respectfully returned to the Secretary of War.

Experience with rocket batteries during this war is not at all favorable to
their usefulness. The same number of men and horses can produce more effect
with the improved cannon and projectiles now used. Rockets have but little
range and accuracy compared to rifled projectiles, and are liable at times to
premature explosions and great eccentricity of fight. This department has no
assurance that these rocket batteries have been tested in actual service, or
that they possess the necessary requisites. I cannot, therefore, recommend
their purchase. It may be worthy of remark that most of the foreign offers to
this department convey the idea that the rebels are always in the field to
purchase, but that preference is given to the United States Government. The
desire to find purchasers is, I fear, not always primitive of such
disinterested zeal.

GEO. D. RAMSEY, Brigadier-General and Chief of Ordnance.

HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
July 27, 1864.

Major-General AUGUR:

In addition to the batteries of field artillery which should be kept in
readiness to move on the threatened point, I think it will be well to place in
the forts some field pieces with ammunition, to bear upon the approaches when
the enemy comes within short range. These guns can be worked by the same men
who work the large guns, as both will not be equally effective at the same
time. Consult General De Russy and Colonels Alexander and Haskin on this
subject, and as to where the guns should be placed. This must not interfere
with the organization of field batteries for use here or in the field.

H. W. HALLECK,
Major-General and Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, 22nd ARMY CORPS,
July 27, 1864.

Respectfully referred to Lieutenant-Colonel Haskin, chief of Artillery, who, in
consultation with General De Russy and Colonel Alexander, will determine the
number and kind of guns which can be properly used to advantage, as indicated
by the major-general and chief of staff. This having been determined,
requisitions will be at once made.

By command of Major-General Augur:
J. H. TAYLOR,
Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. MIL. DIST. OF HARPER'S FERRY,
Numbers 19.} Harper's Ferry, W. Va. , July 28, 1864.

4. The following batteries having reported at these headquarters, by order of
General Crook, they will send their morning reports to General Max Weber,
commanding Defenses of Harper's Ferry: Thirtieth New York Independent Battery,
Lieutenant Carroline; First Ohio Independent Battery, Lieutenant Kirkland.

5. Captain Graham, Battery F, First West Virginia Artillery, having reported
at these headquarters in obedience to orders from General Crook, will proceed
with his battery to Maryland Heights and report to Major Merriam, Fifth New
York Artillery, commanding Fort Duncan, under whose direction he will encamp
near Captain Furst's battery.

By command of Brigadier-General Howe:
CH. HAMLIN, Assistant Adjutant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA,
Numbers 50.} Harper's Ferry, W. Va. , July 28, 1864.

Captain H. A. Du Pont, Fifth U. S. Artillery, is, at his own request,
relieved from duty as these headquarters, as chief of artillery, and will
report to Bvt. Major General George Crook, for assignment to duty as chief
of artillery of his command.

By order of Major-General Hunter:
THAYER MELVIN, Assistant Adjutant-General.

ORDERS. ] HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
July 30, 1864.

Colonel C.H. Tompkins, chief of artillery, will procure from this locality
as many suitable horses as possible for the batteries of this command, and will
see that the proper receipts and vouchers are given to the owners of these
horses.

By command of Major-General Wright:
C. H. WHITTELSEY, Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.
July 30, 1864-4.45 a.m.

Colonel WAINWRIGHT,
Chief of Artillery, Fifth Corps, Hdqrs. Fifth Corps:

General Burnside is directed if his mine has failed to open all the
batteries on his front and assault at once. Upon hearing his batteries open
those of the Fifth Corps will open also.

A.A. HUMPHREYS.
Major-General and Chief of Staff

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 31, 1864-1 a.m.

Colonel ABBOT:

The siege guns cannot well be sent by artillery teams; they may be wanted at
any moment for the field batteries. I have asked Colonel Wainwright and Colonel
Monroe to get out all the siege material and part it to await teams. Would it
be best to send them to City Point or Broadway Landing? Ask Ingalls for
transportation, and if for City Point, whether the railroad could be used to
advantage. General Ord has been directed to send such siege artillery as he can
spare to City Point. I presume he will provide transportation, but I expect to
hear from him on the subject.

H. J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-1.30 a.m.

General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

Everything must come here and not to City Point. It will be impossible to load
at the latter. Here everything is ready. The railroad cannot be used. I would
much prefer to have the direction of the withdrawal without the aid of Colonel
Wainwright and Colonel Monroe, as they know nothing of my facilities and would
only confuse. So also with General Ord. I can withdraw myself far better than
through other agent not under my orders.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-1.35 a.m.

Colonel INGALLS,
Chief Quartermaster in Field, City Point:

I am ordered to withdraw large siege material in haste. Please forward if
possible eighteen eight-mule teams and sixty wagons with least possible delay
to Broadway Landing, and oblige,

Yours, &c.,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.LII.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

I have telegraphed to General Ingalls for cars to carry seven of your Parrotts,
ammunition and detachments, to City Point. Hunt says they go there-the guns and
ammunition. I have telegraphed for a locomotive for the heavy mortar. The
Coehorns and siege mortars cannot be sent to-night; time will not allow.

A. PIPER,
Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-2 a.m.

Colonel PIPER,
Chief of Artillery, Eighteenth Corps:

My guns must come here to be loaded and I suppose the word City Point was used
by mistake. If you will have the guns dragged by hand to where I can get teams
to them by daylight can send for them there then; but, if possible, do please
forward them, each drawn by the caisson horses of a light battery, and the
ammunition in wagons.

H. L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-6 a.m.

Brigadier-General INGALLS,
Chief Quartermaster Armies in the Field, City Point:

Was my telegram asking for more teams and wagons received last night, and can
they be sent and how soon, if so?

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

CITY POINT, July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Your dispatch was received. Captain E. J. Strang has been ordered to send the
teams you require at once.

RUFUS INGALLS,
Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Colonel Allcock has been directed to attend to the forwarding of the six
Coehorns from Wainwright.

H. J. HUNT,
Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-7.15 a.m.

Lieutenant-Colonel ALLCOCK:
(Care of General Hunt, headquarters Army of the Potomac.)

A train, to remove the guns and ammunition in Fort Hell, will be soon started.
Send an officer at once to Captain Brooker, commanding siege battery near
Warren's headquarters, to take charge of the train. Have the guns prepared
for moving, and, if possible, send them off before dark.
If not, do it as early as possible to-night. I send six eight-mule teams for the
guns and eight wagons for the ammunition and implements, supposing that there
are about 400 rounds on hand. If more, you must send a wagon from your own
train. Send a guard with the guns, &c., to see that they report as soon as
possible at Broadway Landing. Do not start without a guide that knows the way.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA.,July 31, 1864-12.30 a.m.

Captain BROOKER,
First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Battery,
Near General Warren's Headquarters:
(Through Headquarters Fifth Corps.)

I start a train of sixty-one wagons to report to you with a letter of
instruction. All siege material is to be moved here at once. This train is for
the mortar batteries of Pierce and Petterson; your guns and Pratt's will be
sent for by General Hunt, so be in readiness for this move.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-7.20 a.m.

Captain BROOKER,
Commanding Siege Battery near Warren's Headquarters:
(Through his Telegraph Operator).

I shall send a large train of about sixty wagons with twelve eight-mule teams
to report to your, carrying a letter of instructions. They will report in, say,
two hours. Have your guns and Captain Pratt's ready to start as soon as
possible. Report the condition of progress of the mortar train.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, July 31, 1864.

Captain BROOKER,
Commanding Siege Guns, Army of the Potomac:

CAPTAIN: I send eighteen eight-mule teams and forty-five wagons. Of these turn
over to the officer sent by Colonel Allcock, commanding Fourth New York, now
waiting at your headquarters, six of the eight-mule teams and eight wagons to
remove the guns in Fort Hell, for doing which Colonel Allcock has instructions.
The rest of the train is for your command, the estimate as follows: The twelve
eight-mule teams for yourself and Captain Pratt; the wagons as follows:
Brooker, 9; Pratt, 5; Gillett, 15; total, 29. See that the platforms of Pierce,
Patterson, and Gillett are brought away. I send eight surplus wagons, as the
estimate of ammunition on hand may be erroneous, no
report of firing yesterday having been received. I want everything that can
possibly be started to-day to be hurried here as soon as possible, the rest
without fail early to-night. As soon as everything is removed from a battery
the company will report here. All guns will be accompanies by a strong detail,
with guides familiar with the road. I will send back two mortar wagons for the
remaining 10-inch mortars as soon as possible. Advise me by telegraph of
anything you may want, and of your progress. See Colonel Wainwright, of
Warren's staff, and get the Coehorns if General Hunt has so ordered, six of
them with ammunition; it will take, say, six wagons. I sent them to him night
before last.

Your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel, Commanding.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-7.30 a.m.

General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

Have sent last night about enough wagons to remove the heavy mortars on
Warren's front, except two mortars without ammunition, which must wait the
return of the mortar wagons. Have another train about starting, of sixty wagons
with eighteen mule teams, which will remove all the heavy artillery with Army
of the Potomac as soon as it can be loaded. Have received seven Parrott guns
and ammunition complete from General Ord. Please notify me whether the six
Coehorns sent Colonel Wainwright have been ordered to me.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

MEMORANDUM.-Guns from Fort Hell arrived 8.30 a.m. Colonel White, with twelve
teams and forty-five wagons, started for Army of the Potomac 8.45 a.m.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-9 a.m.

Colonel PIPER,
Chief of Artillery, Eighteenth Corps:

The seven Parrotts have arrived safely with their ammunition. I can send any
amount of wagons for the rest of the siege material if required. Please notify
me what it is contemplated to send to rear. If Dow's guns are coming please
send them with light artillery horses if possible; if not, I can supply teams.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

The mortars now here are to remain. It is not yet decided whether Dow's guns
are to be moved or to remain. It will take about eleven wagons for the
ammunition and material for Dow's guns. Can you
have that many ready to start to me the instant I telegraph for them? If you
can at the same time send horses for the guns it would be best. I do not like
to venture my battery horses, for we may be called on to use them at a moment's
notice. Please let your quartermaster, if you can, send horses and wagons in
case they are wanted.

A. PIPER,
Colonel and Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-12 m.

Colonel PIPER,
Chief of Artillery, Eighteenth Corps:

I will keep eleven wagons and three teams constantly ready for Captain Dow's
material, subject to your telegram. I shall also have other transportation
generally in part for the rest, or part of it, and can always inform you of the
amount. I think Captain Dow's mantlets had better be sent back. I will send for
them if desired.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-9.30 a.m.

Captain BROOKER,
Commanding Siege Battery near Warren's Headquarters:
(Through his Telegraph Operator).

Captain Pierce must gouge out the fuse plugs of his filled shells in some way,
if possible. Only abandon and bury them as a last resort. By careful cutting I
think he may safely try it.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-9.30 a.m.

Captain BROOKER:

Tell Captain Pierce to bore out his fuse composition and fill his shells with
water as one resort, better than leaving them.

H. L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-9.45 a.m.

Captain EDSON,
Ordnance Officer at Fort Monroe:

Pleaser retain all ammunition coming to Fort Monroe for my train (except
Coehorn mortar) until hearing from me again.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding.

BURNSIDE'S HEADQUARTERS, July 31, 1864-10 a.m.

Lieutenant B. P. LEARNED,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:

I have succeeded in getting transportation that will take to the landing the
two siege batteries; their ammunition will be moving soon. Captain Gillett will
get out at dusk.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. F. BROOKER,
Captain, &c.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

In case siege mortars or guns remain here, what shall I do regarding the
detachments? Shall the ordnance be turned over to other troops?

THOS. S. TRUMBULL,
Major.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-12. 15 p.m.

Major TRUMBULL,
Commanding Siege Batteries, Eighteenth Corps:

I have never for a moment designed to relieve our companies without their guns.
Do not take anybody's order for such a proceeding except mine.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS,
July 31, 1864-1.30 p.m.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT, Commanding Siege Train:

Everything that has not already reached you is in transit, or being loaded up,
excepting from Gillett's battery. Captain Brooker will remain until this
evening, when that will all be moved.

NELSON L. WHITE,
Lieutenant-Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS FIFTH ARMY CORPS,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

The thirteen wagons of 4 1/2-inch ammunition and Coehorns have just started for
Broadway Landing.

THOS. ALLCOCK,
Lieutenant-colonel, &c.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 31, 1864 (Received 2 p.m.)

Colonel ABBOT:

I am loading eight wagons from my own train with the 4 1/2-inch ammunition from
Castle Hell. All the siege materials on the Fifth Corps line except the above
have started.

THOS. ALLCOCK,
Lieutenant-Colonel Fourth New York Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
July 31, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

I have sent Captain Osborne with the 13-inch mortar to City Point by rail. Will
you communicate further orders to him?

T. S. TRUMBULL,
Major.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
July 31, 1864. (Received 8.35 p.m.)

Colonel ABBOT:

Have you a good and short road to City Point? Have you received orders to load
your siege materials on the vessels? Had you not better telegraph to City Point
for instructions on the subject? The orders were to send it all to City Point.
It is just possible they want it there and do not want it shipped. I fear
General Ord has stripped himself too bare of heavy guns.

H. J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864-8.35 p.m.
Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I received orders from General Grant to keep my train afloat, except what was
in use, and upon this authority have been loading, as fast as possible. I am
satisfied that this is what is now desired, from a remark made to one of my
officers in relation to the 13-inch mortar, but will telegraph as you desire.
There is a good road to City Point. General Ord has retained in position of my
train three 30-pounder Parrotts, ten 8-inch mortars, and sixteen Coehorns,
which makes his line very well secured with his light batteries, in my
judgment. My gun carriages are merely run on barges, not put in the hold, and
can be very rapidly unloaded. We have done wonders in the way of moving and
loading the train. Everything is exactly as I desire in this respect.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., July 31, 1864.-8.40 p.m.

Colonel BOWERS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Armies in the Field, City Point:

General Hunt suggests that I notify you that I am loading my train as rapidly
as possible at Broadway Landing, this being my understanding of my orders.
It can be unloaded faster than it can be put in position, as
I do not take the carriages apart. By morning everything not required by
General Ord will be here and nearly afloat. Please notify me if this is what
you desire.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

CITY POINT, VA., July 31, 1864.
Colonel ABBOT, First Connecticut Artillery:

You have done right. General Grant will return during the night, and his
further directions will be telegraphed to you in the morning.

T. S. BOWERS,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} ARTY. HDQRS., ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
No.100. August 3, 1864.

In obedience to Special Orders, Numbers 206, paragraph 4, headquarters Army of
the Potomac, the Fourth New York Foot Artillery is relieved from duty with the
siege train, and the colonel commanding will report to Major-General Hancock,
commanding Second Corps, for orders.

In relieving this regiment the brigadier-general directing the siege operation
returns his thanks to Colonel Allcock, his officers and men, for the
efficiency, skill, and gallantry they have displayed whilst under his orders in
the labor and operations in which they have taken part, in the preparation of
material, the construction of the works, and in the service of the artillery
in the battle of the 30th of July.

By command of General Hunt:
JNO N. CRAIG,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY,
Broadway Landing, Va., August 4, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel THOMAS ALLCOCK,
Commanding Fourth New York Artillery:

COLONEL: By direction of Colonel Abbot, I have the honor to transmit herewith
Special Orders, No.100, Artillery Headquarters, Army of the Potomac, August 3,
1864, relieving your regiment from duty with the siege train. The companies (A
and M) at these headquarters are ordered to report to you at once. In taking
leave of the regiment the colonel commanding desires to thank you for its
cordial co-operation during the last few weeks. In preparing the siege
batteries it has taken a prominent part, and in serving its guns (six 4
1/2-inch guns, Company H, Captain A. C. Brown commanding, and twelve Coehorn
mortars, Companies K and L, Captain S. F. Gould and Second Lieutenant Frank
Seymour commanding) it has maintained the reputation well earned by its
previous services during the campaign.

I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
B. P. LEARNED,
First Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Reports of Captain Benjamin F.Smiley, Second Pennsylvania Provisional Heavy Artillery,
Commanding mortar battery, of operations June 26-July 30.
NEAR PETERSBURG, VA., August 4, 1864.

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to forward to the chief of artillery a report of
the part taken by the Ninth Corps mortar battery in the action of July 30,
1864:

The battery comprises six pieces and occupied the following positions: Right
section on the right of the covered way leading to the mine; center section
confronting the work blown up; left section on the right of the road leading to
Petersburg and about 100 yards to the left of the center section. Fire was
opened immediately upon the blowing up of the rebel work, the right section
throwing shell into the work known as the fort near the red house and whose
fire could enfilade the work blown up. The center and left sections paid their
compliments more particularly to the fort left of the Petersburg road, with an
occasional shell from the center section into the works leading to the work
mined. The number of shells fired by the different sections during the action
were as follows, viz: Right section, up to 9 a.m., seventy rounds; center
section, up to 9 a.m., thirty-eight rounds; left section, up to 9 a.m.,
sixty-three rounds. Total, 171 rounds. At 1.30 p.m., when the rebels charged
the ruins, right section fired ten rounds, center section fired seven rounds,
left section fired twelve rounds, making through the action a total of 200
rounds.

Very respectfully, yours,
B.F.SMILEY,
Captain, in charge Mortars.
Lieutenant SAMUEL CHAPIN,
Actq.Asst.Adjt.General ,Arty.Brigadier ,Ninth Army Corps.

NEAR PETERSBURG, VA., August 15, 1864.

LIEUTENANT: In obedience to Special Orders, No.205, headquarters Army of the
Potomac, I have the honor to report the operations of the Ninth Corps mortar
battery:

The period embraced in the following dates, May 4 and June 26, I was with my
regiment [Provisional Second Pennsylvania Volunteer Heavy Artillery], acting as
infantry, and as a battery commander have no report to forward. By virtue of
Special Orders, No.93, dated headquarters Ninth Army Corps, near Petersburg,
Va., June 26, 1864, I was placed in charge of the Ninth Corps mortars. Since
assuming command the operations have been such as characterize mortar practice,
firing slowly and usually very accurately. The enemy has been very much
annoyed; shells were very frequently exploded in their pits, throwing men in
the air and creating much confusion.

July 15, I blew up in the rebel work on the left of the Petersburg road what is
supposed to have been a caisson. On the 20th another was exploded. On the 25th
of July I blew up what is supposed to have been a small magazine from the
amount of logs thrown in the air.

From the 25th to July 30, the operations were such as are incidental to the
practice.

As a report of the operations of the battery July 30 has been forwarded it is
not necessary to repeat it.

Respectfully, yours,
B.F.SMILEY,
Captain, in charge Ninth Corps Mortars.
Lieutenant SAMUEL CHAPIN,
Actg.Asst.Adjt.General ,Arty.Brigadier ,Ninth Army Corps.

Report of Lieutenant Colonel J. Albert, Monroe, First Rhode Island Light Artillery,
Chief of Artillery, of operations July 30.
HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, NINTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., August 5, 1864.

CAPTAIN:I respectfully forward the following report of the operations of the
artillery of this corps (the Ninth) during the assault upon the enemy's
position July 30:

The position of the batteries was as follows: Thomas' (Second Maine) battery on
the right on the front of the First Division, Rogers' (Nineteenth New York) and
Jones' (Eleventh Massachusetts) batteries on the front of the Second Division,
and to the rear and left of the place known as the Old Barn, and to the right of
the covered way leading to the mine; Start's (Third Vermont) and Durell's
(D, Independent Pennsylvania) batteries in the heavy work on the left of
the same covered way and in the rear of the Taylor house; Roemer's
(Thirty-fourth New York) and Mayo's (Third Maine) batteries
in the work on the knoll to the left of the Petersburg or Jordan
road; Twitchell's (Seventh Maine) battery, one section on the front line to the
left of the ice-house bearing upon the ravine in front of the Third Division,
one gun to the left of the Taylor house bearing upon the Petersburg road, and
one at the right of the house. Two Coehorn mortars were in position at the Old
Barn, two confronting the work blown up and two just at the right of the
Petersburg road. Eaton's (Twenty-seventh New York), Rhodes' (E, Rhode Island),
Wright's (Fourteenth Massachusetts), and Hexamer's (A, New Jersey) batteries
were held in reserve at convenient points to be taken down the road to the
crest in rear of the enemy's works should our infantry gain that position.
Instructions were given battery commanders Friday evening in accordance with
instructions received from artillery headquarters, Army of Potomac, and
immediately upon the springing of the mine the batteries open upon the
designated points, every gun having been previously loaded and pointed,
cannoneers at posts, lanyards in hand. Captain Rogers directed his fire mainly
upon the work to the right of the work blown up, in which the enemy had a
battery that enfiladed our line as it advanced to the assault. Jones' battery
also opened upon the same work, but did not pay attention exclusively to it.
Captain Rogers used solid shot principally, and his fire was very effective,
compelling the enemy to change the position of his guns several times, which he
could readily do under cover of the woods and his heavy works. Start's and
Durell's batteries directed their fire to the enem's works to the right of the
crater; also upon one of the batteries in the edge of the woods far back in
rear of the destroyed work, which enfiladed our line, advancing to the crest on
the right. Owing to the trees in front, which were directly between these
batteries and the enemy's batteries, their fire was not very effective.
Roemer's and Mayo's batteries opened fire upon the works of the enemy to the
left of the crater. Their fire was as effective as it could possibly be, but
there was the same difficulty here, on account of the trees in front, as in
Start's and Durell's batteries. The section of Twitchell's battery on the left
opened with great effect on the enemy's work in its front, doing most
excellent service, injuring the work to such an extent that it was
impracticable to fire from the embrasures fronting that portion of the line.
The pieces near the Taylor house were excellently served, and did good service,
the one on the right throwing shot and shell directly in the embrasures of the
enemy's work, rendering it impossible for him to work his guns. The Coehorn
mortars, under Captain Smiley (Second Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery), were
served with great effect. The fire of the two on the right were directed at the
work on the right near the woods, and that of the other four upon the work to
the left of the Petersburg road.

The expenditures of ammunition were as follows: 757 rounds solid shot, 2,081
rounds shell, 749 rounds shrapnel; total number of rounds, 3,587. The
casualties were very slight, as follows: killed, 1; wounded, 2.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. ALBERT MONROE,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Artillery.

Report of Colonel Alexander Piper, Tenth New York Heavy Artillery,
Chief of Artillery, of operations July 30
HDQRS. CHIEF OF ARTILLERY, 18TH ARMY CORPS,
August 6, 1864

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the artillery of the Eighteenth Army Corps on July 30:

Instructions had been given on the evening of the 29th for those batteries in
position to open fire on the enemy at a given signal, the signal being the
explosion of the mine on Burnside's front. The batteries on the left of the
line were directed to open on those batteries and troops of the enemy who
might have a cross or enfilading fire on our advancing forces, but to be very
careful that they did not interfere with our progress. The remaining batteries
of the line were directed to open generally, and by annoying the enemy divert
his attention from the threatened point. Captain Burton and Captain Dow, First
Connecticut Artillery, were directed at first to open on Petersburg, to
prevent,if possible, the assembling by them of re-enforcements. Major Trumbull,
First Connecticut Artillery, had a general charge of the mortars and siege
guns of the line. The instructions were strictly carried out, and a heavy fire
for some two hours was kept up from the front of this corps. The batteries
were arranged as follows, commencing on the left: On the extreme left of the
line was a battery of five Coehorn mortars, commanded by Lieutenant Andrews,
First Connecticut Artillery; next on the right, about 200 yards distant, was a
battery of four Coehorn mortars, commanded by Captain Gould, Fourth New York
Artillery. Immediately on the right of this was a battery of two 8-inch
mortars commanded by Lieutenant Sargeant, First Connecticut Artillery.About
fifty yards on the right was a battery of two Coehorns, under charge of
Captain Gould, Fourth New York Artillery. At the Hare house, about fifty yards
to the right, was a battery of five light 12-pounders, commanded by Captain
Anthony, Seventeenth New York Battery; four 8-inch mortars, Lieutenant
Jackson, First Connecticut Artillery; two 20-pounder Parrotts of Ashby's
battery (E, Third New York Artillery). About 700 yards to the right was a
battery of three Coehorn mortars, Lieutenant Williams, First Connecticut
Artillery; two light 12-pounders of Riggs' (H, Third New York Artillery). About
200 yards to the right, near the railroad (City Point), was a battery of two
Coehorns, Lieutenant Beers, First Connecticut Artillery; three light
12-pounders of Riggs' (H, Third New York) battery. About 200 yards on the right
was a battery of six 3-inch rifles of Angel's battery (K, Third New York).
About 300 yards on the right and across Harrison's Creek was a battery of three
30-pounder Parrotts and four 8-inch mortars, under charge of Captain Dow,
First Connecticut Artillery. On the plain in front of corps headquarters was
Howell's battery, six 10-pounder Parrotts..
One the ridge on right of corps headquarter was Burton's (First Connecticut)
battery of three 30-pounder Parrotts. On the railroad near the Spring Hill
crossing was a 13-inch mortar, under charge of Captain Osborne, First
Connecticut Artillery. At the Walthall house were two 20-pounder Parrotts of
Ashby's battery (E, Third New York Artillery). At the Rushmore house was
Brigham's battery, First Connecticut Artillery, four 30-pounder Parrotts. The
light batteries of the corps not mentioned by name were prepared, but were
not called on to take part in the firing. It is reported by deserters that one
shell from the 13-inch mortar dismounted a gun in the battery known as the
Chesterfield Battery; another struck in the works, killing and wounding from 8
to 10 men.

The following is the amount of ammunition expended during the day: By the light
batteries, 155 solid shot, 361 shell, 161 spherical case, and 6 canister; by
the heavy batteries and mortars, 1,093 shell.
The casualties in the artillery of the corps for the 30th were 2 men wounded,
viz: Battery H, Third New York Artillery, 1; 8-inch mortar battery, First
Connecticut Artillery, 1.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A.PIPER,
Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.
Brigadier-General HUNT,
Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac.

Report of Captain George F. McKnight, Twelfth New York Battery.
TWELFTH N. Y. BATTERY, ARTY. Brigadier, 2nd ARMY CORPS,
August 11, 1864.

SIR:

I reported on the evening of June 12 to Brigadier-General Gibbon, commanding
Second Division, Second Army Corps, and marched out of the works at dusk, via
Dispatch Station; crossed the Chickahominy at Long Bridge about noon of the
13th; thence to Wilcox's Landing, on the James River, parking at 11 p. m. about
two miles from the landing. Tuesday, 14th, hitched up and went down to the
landing, and embarking the morning of the 15th, crossed the James on transports
to Wind-Mill Point; marched at noon, still with the Second Division, and
arrived at the fortifications east of Petersburg about 1 a. m. of the 16th, and
went in position at daylight of the 16th; took position to the left of Battery
Numbers 8; engaged in firing slowly during the day, and in the afternoon and
evening engaged sharply with the enemy, both infantry and artillery, until 8 p.
m. Engaged at intervals during the 17th and until the enemy's line was forced
back some distance on the morning of the 18th.
On the evening of the 20th marched to the left and parked in rear of the
Fifth Corps. On the morning of the 21st marched out to the left onto the
Jerusalem plank road and parked near the Jones house. I reported, by order of
Major-General Gibbon, with whom I was then serving, to Brigadier-General
Pierce, and placed the battery in position in the work prepared by the pioneers
for it at 3 a. m. of the morning of the 22d. Finding the works incomplete and
defective in several particulars, I ordered my own men to commence work at once
to strengthen and improve them, which they did, and remained steadily at work
until 2 p. m., at the time of opening fire. At about 12 m. the enemy opened
upon my position from an earth-work and fort to the right from four guns,
bursting their projectiles in the battery with great accuracy, and also to the
right and left of my position, as if endeavoring to elicit a reply from a
battery if one was posted there. I immediately commenced changing my embrasures
to the right in order to bear upon the enemy's guns. (These embrasures being
made facing to the front before the battery was placed in position, and I being
informed by officers on General Pierce's staff that the enemy would open a
battery in our front if at all.) As soon as I commenced altering the works I
reported the same to General Pierce, who ordered me to continue the work and
open on the enemy's batteries as soon as possible. This order I complied with
at about 2 p. m., and as soon as I opened the enemy replied with eight pieces
of artillery and a very heavy musketry fire, their shot and shell falling and
bursting with perfect accuracy in and about my works. After firing for the
space of one hour the infantry support on our immediate left opened fire on the
enemy, who were advancing in line of battle on our left front. The embrasure of
the left gun was at once dug away in order to fire more to the left, and opened
with canister, driving the enemy back with heavy loss. They fell back to their
first line of battle, but rallied at once and again advanced full on our left
flank. I was unable to open upon them to the left with more than one gun, as
the embrasure for the remaining three guns faced the enemy's works to the
right. At this time infantrymen came running in from the left, crying, "We are
flanked on the left; the left has broken." I continued firing canister and
case-shot without fuse until the entire left gave way and ran through the
woods, leaving my left flank entirely unprotected; the enemy following
immediately down the works from the left and planting their colors on the
lunette of my left gun, ordered us to surrender. Up to this time none of my men
had left their posts, nor did they do so until ordered by myself and officers.
The order was given to fix prolonges, but the enemy poured into the works in
such overwhelming numbers that it was apparent the further exertions to save
the guns were useless, and my men fell back to the winding road running
through the woods. My officers, First Lieutenant George K. Dauchy and First
Lieutenant William S. Bull, nobly endeavored to rally the infantry to return
and help draw off the pieces, and who, when asked by them, "Why do you fall
back," replied "We did not fall back until ordered by the major commanding the
brigade and by our officers." What few infantry remained in the road near the
battery at this time were willing and desirous to return and help retake the
guns, but not enough could be rallied at any one time to make an effective
advance. During this time my chief of caissons, Second Lieutenant H. D.
Brower, whom I had dispatched to the rear a few moments before, now came up and
gallantly assisted Lieutenants Dauchy and Bull in endeavoring to rally the
infantry. No infantry officers were seen at this point of the road by my
officers. At the time the enemy came in upon the left of the battery I was on the right
flank of my battery with my first sergeant. The First Minnesota Regiment, of
General Pierce's brigade, which joined my battery on the right, broke on seeing
the left give way, but were rallied by their officers and fired one volley at
the enemy, but seeing them pouring in on our left fell back in confusion. One
Lieutenant O'Brien, of the First Minnesota Regiment, rallied a few men and
returned with me and some of my own men, who were falling back on the upper
road, and endeavored to save the right piece. At this juncture the enemy poured
in a heavy volley, killing my first sergeant and several men who were
endeavoring to pull off the piece, and at the same time calling upon us to
surrender. I then ordered the men near me to fall back, the enemy at this time
occupying my entire position. I at once reported to General Pierce that my
battery was lost. I with my officers and men remained with the first line of
battle until after dark, ready to follow up any advantage that might be gained
by the line in recapturing the position and pieces. I regained one limber,
after our lines advanced this morning, nearly destroyed by shell, the axle and
wheels having over twenty bullet holes in them. The loss of the command on the
22nd is as follows: First sergeant killed; 1 corporal wounded; 1 corporal
missing since action; 2 corporals missing since action; 1 bugler missing since
action; 4 privates missing since action; four 3-inch rifled guns, four
ammunition chests, and three limbers lost.*

Thursday, the 23d, I parked near the Jerusalem plank road and made a
requisition for four light 12-pounder guns, per order of Colonel Tidball, chief
of artillery, Second Army Corps. Received them July 1.

On Monday, July 4, went into position on Brigadier-General Barlow's line,
relieving Battery K, Fourth United States, and remained there until July 6.

On the morning of July 9 went into position on Major-General Birney's line,
remaining until the morning of the 12th, when I marched with the reserve
artillery of the corps toward the right, parking not far from the plank road,
until the morning of the 13th, when I marched and parked with the artillery of
the corps in rear of the Fifth Army Corps, remaining there until the evening of
the 26th.

Marched at sundown July 26, with the reserve artillery of the corps, across the
Appomattox to Jones' Landing, on the James River; remained there in reserve
until 11 p. m. of the 28th, when I marched back across the Appomattox River
with the Third Division and parked near the Eighteenth Army Corps hospitals at
daylight of the 29th, and at dark on the 30th I returned to my old camp in rear
of the Fifth Army Corps, where I have since remained.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. F. McKNIGHT,
Captain Twelfth New York Independent Battery.

ORDNANCE OFFICE, August 19, 1864.

Honorable E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:

SIR: As the present receipt of heavy cannon by this department is insufficient
for meeting the wants of the country, I desire to present for your
consideration certain facts connected therewith, showing the propriety and
importance of increasing the supply up to the maximum capacity of our iron
foundries. As communicated to you in my letter of the 31st of December, 1863,
the number of 8- inch, 10-inch, and 15-inch Rodman guns required for the proper
armament of our fortifications on the coast and frontier is estimated, from the
best date attainable, at 4,218. The capacity (Army share) of our foundries
for this class of guns, in addition to their other work, was stated in the same
letter at 612 for the year 1864, at which rate it would take seven years to
produce the quantity required.

The following table exhibits the deficiency in the number of these guns
expected to be received in the present year to date, and based on the estimated
capacity of the founders engaged in the manufacture:

..............................................................................Rodman guns ...................

From January 1 to August 15, 1864 ........15-inch .......10-inch ...... 8-inch ......Total

Anticipated receipts ....................................70 ............. 260............ 65 ......... 395

Actual receipts ........................................... 55 ............. 93 .............26 .........174

Deficiency ................................................. 15 ............. 167 ............ 39 .........221

This deficiency is chiefly attributable to the fact that in consequence of the
high prices asked by Messrs. Charles Knap & Co., C. Alger & Co., the principal
founders, it was not deemed advisable by the War Department in March last to
accede to their terms, and such guns as they have delivered in the present year
were due on order given prior to January 1, 1864.

Messrs. Seyfert, McManus & Co., of Reading, Pa., accepted a contract for
seventy-five 8-inch and 10-inch guns at 10 1/2 cents per pound, which they have
nearly filled. We are now paying 13 cents a pound for 8-inch siege mortars and
howitzers.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. D. RAMSAY,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Ordnance.

Report of Colonel Charles S. Wainwright, First New York Light
Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade.

HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY BRIGADE, FIFTH CORPS,
September 1, 1864.
COLONEL: I have the honor to submit, for the information of the major-general
commanding the corps, the following report of the part taken by this command in
the campaign from Culpeper Court-House to this place:

At the time we left our winter camp the brigade was composed of the following
batteries: B, Fourth United States, Lieutenant Stewart commanding, six light
12-pounders; D, First New York, Captain Winslow commanding, six light
12-pounders; H, First New York, Captain Mink commanding, six light 12-pounders;
C, Massachusetts, Captain Martin commanding, six light 12-pounders; D, Fifth
United States, Lieutenant Rittenhouse commanding, six 10-pounder Parrotts; B,
First Pennsylvania, Captain Cooper commanding, six 3-inch regulation; L, First
New York, Captain Breck commanding, six 3-inch regulation; E, Massachusetts,
Captain Phillips commanding, six 3-inch regulation; making total of eight
batteries and forty-eight guns. The brigade moved out of camp at 2 o'clock on
the morning of the 4th day of May, and marched in a body along with the
infantry of the corps through Stevensburg to the Rapidan at Germanna Ford.
After crossing the ford the different batteries were assigned to march with the
divisions, for their better protection through the Wilderness, as follows: B,
First Pennsylvania, with Crawford's (Third) division; C, Massachusetts, and E,
Massachusetts, and D, First New York, with Griffin's (First) division; H, First
New York, and D, Fifth United States, with Robinson's (Second) division; L,
First New York, and B, Fourth United States, with Wadsworth's (Fourth)
division. On reaching the Old Wilderness Tavern the first four batteries went
into position on the high ground immediately around the Lacy house. The others
were camped for the night on the east side of the Germanna plank road, about
three-fourths of a mile north of the tavern.

May 5.-The batteries remained with the divisions for this day's march the same
as yesterday, Crawford's division leading on the road to Parker's Store, and at
5 a. m. reached a large opening within about half a mile of that place, when
our cavalry, which had previously held the Store, were driven back by a body of
the enemy passing along the Orange Court-House plank road, stopping our farther
advance. Cooper's battery went into position at this point,
but did not open fire. Meanwhile Breck's and Stewart's batteries, with
Wadsworth's division, followed the same road, and reached another open space,
about half a mile to the rear of that occupied by Crawford's division. These
batteries did not get into position at this place, and, along with Cooper's,
were withdrawn to the neighborhood of the Lacy house about noon, when the
divisions they were with fell back to that point. It having been now
ascertained that the enemy were in full force and would resist our further
progress, four batteries were posted on the crest to the right of the Lacy
house, commanding the valley and the road to Parker's Store, in the following
order, from left to right: E, Massachusetts; D, Fifth United States; H, First
New York, and B, First Pennsylvania. At times during the afternoon the rifled
batteries opened on bodies of the enemy seen passing the open ground to which
Crawford at first advanced. The distance was about 2,700 yards; practice good.
I had here an opportunity of judging of the relative merits of the Parrotts and
3-inch guns at this range. The elevation required was the same for each, nor
could I see any difference in the accuracy of the fire. I should judge the
proportion of shells which burst about as 5 to 4 in favor of the 3-inch
(Hotchkiss), while five Parrotts and three 3-inch burst within a few yards of
the muzzle. Meanwhile Winslow's battery (D), First New York, advanced up the
Chancellorsville pike, with Griffin's division, about a mile beyond its
junction with the Germanna plank road. One section was taken from the battery
(which was left at this point) and pushed up the road, along the advance of the
infantry, about a mile farther to an opening in the Wilderness, across which
the road passes diagonally to the right. The section crossed this opening, and
went into position part way up the rise beyond, firing solid shot up the road.
Finding that the infantry line of battle on his right had not advanced with
him, Captain Winslow withdrew his section to the bottom of the hill, nearly
across to the hither side of the open space, and again went into position. But
at the same moment Ayres' brigade, which supported them on the right, gave way
and fell back across the road. A few shot were fired by the section even after
the infantry had left them, but nearly all the horses were shot, Captain
Winslow severely wounded, Lieutenant Shelton wounded and a prisoner, and the
enemy actually between the guns before they were abandoned. No blame whatever
can be attached to either the battery officers or men, nor to Captain Martin,
acting at the time as division chief of artillery. They all acted under orders
from General Griffin. The guns were fought to the last, and lost as honorably
as guns could be lost. I may as well mention in this place that the guns were
not removed by the enemy that night, as I found on visiting the picket-line the
next morning. Had I known it, I believe they might have been drawn within our
lines that night. The next day arrangements were made to do so immediately
after dark, but just at that time Ricketts' division, holding the right of the
road on which they lay, was driven in, and although General Griffin offered to
give me a brigade to try to recover them if I would ask for it, I did not feel
willing to incur the responsibility myself of bringing on an engagement and the
consequent loss of life. Immediately on the infantry falling back to near their
old position, the remaining four guns of Winslow's battery were got into
position on the right of the road, on a crest where a little of the timber had
been felled. A section of Phillips' battery was at the same time brought up and
posted on the pike, where it replied to, and several times silenced, the enemy's guns,
similarly posted at a distance of about 1,400 yards.

May 6.-During the day the following batteries were moved up into position, on a
prolongation to the left of the line occupied by E, Massachusetts, and D, First
New York, which was the main line held by the Fifth Corps: D, First New York,
now commanded by Lieutenant Richardson, on the right of the pike; E,
Massachusetts, across the pike; C, Massachusetts, H, First New York, L, First
New York, B, First Pennsylvania. The fighting during the day was confined to
the infantry. When Ricketts' division, of the Sixth Corps, gave way, by General
Griffin's request I tried to get three batteries into position on a knoll to
the rear of the line above mentioned, so as to command a knoll and ravine on
his right flank. Rittenhouse's and Stewart's, the only remaining batteries of
the bridge, were at once brought up, and as the position was represented to me
as very important and the emergency most pressing, I also ordered up the
Seventh Maine Battery, Captain Twitchell commanding, belonging to the Ninth
Corps. On arriving at the position, however, it was found that but one battery
could be placed so as to be of service, so Stewart and Twitchell were ordered
back to their former position, and Rittenhouse was also withdrawn early the
following morning.

May 7.-The batteries remained in their positions of the day before, except that
Stewart was moved across the opening in front of the Lacy house so as to
command the valley of a small stream coming in at that point. At 9 p. m. the
corps moved out on the Brock road under orders to proceed to Spotsylvania
Court-House by way of Todd's Tavern. The batteries marched with the divisions.
The night was very dark and the infantry straggled across a few little wet
spots on the road to such an extent that it was 1 o'clock of May 8 before the
last battery (Rittenhouse's) left the Lacy house. From that time until daylight
the rear of the column did not make more than half a mile an hour. I had been
directed by General Warren to remain at the Lacy house until all the batteries
were off. And again on reaching corps headquarters, where the head of the
column had halted, about 1 1/2 miles beyond the tavern, I was ordered to remain
with the reserve batteries. About 6.30 a. m., our cavalry being held in check
by the enemy, Robinson's division, with Martin's and Breck's batteries,
followed by Griffin, with Mink's, Phillips' and Richardson's batteries, moved
past the cavalry and pushed on about three-fourths of a mile beyond the Alsop
house. Breck's battery was left in position on the high ground close to this
house, while Captain Martin moved to the front with his and went into position
on the right of the Maryland brigade, near the point of woods where General
Sedgwick fell a few days after, and where the two branches of the road, which
separate in the rear of the Alsop house, again come together. Captain Martin
here brought his battery into position and fired solid shot into the woods on
the opposite rise, to enable our infantry to gain possession of it, but failing
in this and being driven back in confusion, the battery fell back with them by
the right-hand road about half a mile to a small knoll, which commanded the
valley of a little stream running from our right into the Po. In the withdrawal
of his battery, Captain Martin received a severe wound in the back of his neck,
just grazing the spine, and the command of the battery devolved upon Lieutenant
Walcott. The other divisions, as they came up, were formed on the right and left
of the Alsop house, about a quarter of a mile to its front, and Mink and Richardson
took position around the house. The farther advance on the enemy was checked at this point.
With the aid of the fire of these batteries, and on the arrival of the rest of the corps, and a
portion of the Sixth, our line was again pushed forward to the point first
gained, which continued to be the salient of our line through the remainder of
the engagement at this place. The batteries were now disposed as follows:
Breck's, Mink's, and Winslow's in position on the right of the road, commanding
the valley above referred to, the latter having relieved Walcott's, which
battery, together with Stewart's, again advanced to near its first position at
the corner of the woods near the salient, and at once became engaged in a
severe contest with a similar number of the enemy's guns. At about 600 yards'
distance a slight rise of ground hid the contending batteries from each other,
and it was some time before the exact range could be got. When, however, the
gunners were brought to fire low enough so as just to graze the ridge and burst
their spherical case on the graze, the enemy's batteries were soon silenced and
their guns probably withdrawn. Shrapnel was almost exclusively used by both
sides in this engagement, which lasted about half an hour. Our loss was 10
killed and some 10 wounded, among whom was First Lieutenant Thomas Goodman,
temporarily serving with Stewart's battery. Though his wound was considered
slight at the time, Lieutenant Goodman died in hospital at Alexandria twelve
days afterward. Soon after dark all the batteries were withdrawn to the
neighborhood of the Alsop house and parked for the night.

May 9.-The corps now occupied an irregular curved line, with its left near the
road to Spotsylvania Court-House, at the salient above mentioned, its right in
the woods to the rear of the Pritchett house. At daylight Mink's (H), First New
York, and Richardson's (D), First New York, were sent to the front and posted,
under General Griffin's orders, a short distance to the right of where
Stewart's battery was the day before. An orchard, with ruins of a house, was
immediately in front of them, and a heavy wooded knoll beyond at a distance of
500 yards. The fire of the enemy's sharpshooters was exceedingly annoying from
these points. At 6.30 p. m. the enemy opened from a battery to the left, and
advanced their skirmish lines, but were driven back into the woods and their
battery silenced. These batteries were again withdrawn after dark. Cooper's
battery occupied its position of the afternoon before, on a knoll to the right
of the Court-House road, and commanding the valley toward the Pritchett house.
Rittenhouse's battery was also placed on the same knoll to the right of
Cooper's, and in the afternoon Phillips' battery was posted about 400 yards in
their rear, on commanding ground. The two first were engaged at different times
during the day against batteries of the enemy, which opened on the right of our
line. Phillips, though not engaged, suffered somewhat from the random fire of a
battery beyond the woods on his left flank. The other batteries remained in
reserve near the Alsop house until late in the p. m., when Walcott relieved
Cooper's battery. The latter moved off to the right about half a mile and fired
some 40 rounds at the enemy across the Po. Breck's battery had been sent also
to somewhat the same position in the afternoon, and was engaged under the fire
of the enemy's sharpshooters. Both these batteries were withdrawn after dark.

May 10.-Mink and Richardson again in their position of the previous day,
slightly advanced and well protected by works thrown up during the night. The
latter battery had but three guns in position, having badly cracked the trail
of one of their pieces the day before. Both batteries fired a good part of the
day, by General Griffin's orders, at the enemy's skirmish line and to encourage
our own infantry. The enemy also occasionally opened from a battery on their
front, but was soon silenced. Rittenhouse's and Breck's batteries were posted
during the morning on the right of the corps to fire on the enemy's line across
the Po, which was being attacked by the Second Corps. They were engaged a good
part of the day, but when the corps fell back were much exposed, and were
withdrawn before night. At the time the Second Corps fell back, at Colonel
Tidball's request, Cooper's and Walcott's batteries were ordered to report to
him, but were not used. They reported back the next morning. Phillips' battery
remained in its position of the previous day, and Stewart's was posted to its
right and rear, close to the Alsop house.

May 11.-Mink and Richardson, in the same position, kept up a fire throughout
the day at intervals, as ordered by the division commander. Cooper occupied his
old works, commanding the valley. Breck, Phillips, Stewart, in position as
before around the Alsop house, with Rittenhouse and Walcott in reserve until
the afternoon, when Stewart's battery was moved to the left and front of
Cooper, and Walcott was ordered to report to Brigadier-General Ayres, now in
command of the Second Division. None of the batteries were engaged during the
day.

May 12.-This morning Phillips' and Breck's batteries were moved to the extreme
left of the corps, and too position to the left of the road which crosses the
Po, now at Corbin's Bridge. During the forenoon they shelled the woods across
the river, and replied to a few guns which opened on our skirmish lines, but
they were either so far off or so much concealed by the woods that the effect
of our fire could not be seen. At 2 p. m. they had a brisk engagement for
twenty-five minutes with a rebel battery in their front at 1,200 yards, and
silenced it. The fire of the enemy was very accurate, wounding several of the
men and exploding one of Captain Phillips' limbers. Mink's and Richardson's
batteries shelled the woods opposite them at the time of the attack made by the
Second Corps, and at intervals during the day. Walcott's battery was also
engaged on General Ayres' front for a short time. The other batteries were in
their previous positions, but not engaged. At night all the batteries were
withdrawn and camped near the Sixth Corps hospitals, in rear of that corps.

May 13.-The command remained in camp all day. At night all moved by by-roads in
rear of the army to the Beverly house, on the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania
Court-House road, reaching that point at sunrise of May 14. On arriving at the
Beverly house, Rittenhouse's battery was posted across the pike about half a
mile beyond the bridge over the Ny, bearing upon the Court-House; distance,
2,200 yards. Cooper's and Breck's batteries were posted close to the Beverly
house, firing to the left flank, and aiding in both the attacks on the Myers
house made on the afternoon of this day. The remainder of the batteries
remained in reserve.

May 15.-The batteries not engaged. Cooper and Rittenhouse remained in their
former positions. The horses are suffering greatly from being kept continually in harness,
and, at the same time, the forage allowance has been but 5 pounds a day.

May 16 and 17.-None of the batteries engaged. By orders of Major-General Meade,
the batteries were this day all reduced to four guns, one section being turned
in at Belle Plain. The six caissons were, however, kept and the surplus horses,
so far as they were serviceable. Major R. H. Fitzhugh, First New York
Artillery, reported from the Reserve with four batteries, viz, Sheldon's
battery (B), First New York, four 10-pounder Parrotts; Barnes' battery (C),
First New York, four 3-inch regulation; Bigelow's battery, Ninth Massachusetts
four light 12-pounders; Hart's battery, Fifteenth New York Independent, four
light 12-pounders. So the number and caliber of the guns in the brigade remain
the same as it was on leaving Culpeper.

May 18.-The Second and Sixth Corps having returned to the right of the general
line, and so uncovered the left, Hart's, Bigelow's, and Walcott's batteries of
light 12-pounders were posted in the neighborhood of the Anderson house to
protect that flank, should the enemy attack there. Before daylight
Rittenhouse's battery was pushed forward on the pike to our advanced works,
about 1,400 yards from the Court-House, and was joined by Taft's (Fifth New
York Independent) battery of six 20-pounder Parrotts, which had temporarily
joined the brigade the night before, and Sheldon's battery, making fourteen
guns, under command of Major Fitzhugh. At the same time Captain Cooper, with
his own, Breck's, and Phillips' batteries, making twelve 3-inch guns, was
posted on a sharp knoll to the front, and some 400 yards to the left, of Major
Fitzhugh's line, making an angle of about 60 degrees with it. The position of
all these batteries was excellent. The first was protected by fair works, and
the rapid descent of the knoll from the rear to Cooper's afforded excellent
shelter for the limbers. The enemy had twenty pieces behind their lines, in
front and to their right of the Court-House. At the time the Second Corps
advanced on the right the batteries on both sides opened. The engagement was
brisk for near three-quarters of an hour, and the practice on both sides was
very accurate. Fire was kept up at intervals during the day without any express
object, and with no perceptible result, except the silencing of the enemy's
guns. At night, the Sixth Corps having returned to its former position at the
Anderson house, the batteries then were withdrawn. Taft's battery also left for
Washington.

May 19.-Fitzhugh's and Cooper's batteries remained in the same position. Taft
being replaced by Bigelow. They fired but little during the day. The Fifth
Corps now being the right of the army, Mink's and Stewart's batteries were
posted with the Fourth Division, near the deserted house, on the right of the
pike, and commanding the valley of the Ny for a short distance. During the
enemy's attack that p. m. on the Fredericksburg pike, the former was slightly
engaged and helped to repel a demonstration on the point he occupied. Barnes'
battery had been posted in the morning near to where army headquarters had
been, and Hart was sent up there as soon as the attack commenced. Major
Fitzhugh, who took charge of the two batteries, reported that they contributed
materially in aiding the heavy artillery to repulse the attack.

May 20.-During the night all the batteries in position were withdrawn
preparatory to moving next morning.

May 21.-Left Beverly house at 10 a. m. and moved to Guiney's Station, crossed
the Mattapony at bridge near that place, and bivouacked for the night on the
south side of the river.

May 22.-Started at noon and marched by the old Telegraph road to Bull's (or
Bullock's) Church, and camped for the night.

May 23.-Moved at daylight. Head of column arrived near North Anna by railroad
bridge 11 a. m. This being the position which the Second Corps was to occupy,
we returned to Mount Carmel Church and passed to the right, striking the river
again at Jericho Mills. Rittenhouse's battery was then placed in position on
the north bank, immediately on the left of the road leading to the ford, and
soon after Breck's battery took position about one-third of a mile farther down
below the bend. The First Division was at once pushed across the ford, meeting
with no opposition, followed by the Third and Fourth Divisions. So soon as the
pontoon bridge was laid the six 12-pounder batteries crossed. Meanwhile the
First Division had advanced into a piece of woods about 1,200 yards from, and
immediately in front of, the ford, and had slightly intrenched. The Third and
Fourth Divisions were now (5 p. m.) pushed forward on the left and right of the
First, to complete the chord across the bend of the river. On the left the
Third Division succeeded in reaching its position near a house, and Hart's and
Stewart's batteries were posted by Captain Cooper in rear of its right, on good
ground. In the attack which was made on both flanks near dusk, the enemy
brought eight guns to bear on this point, which were soon silenced by the fire
of Stewart's and Hart's, assisted by Rittenhouse's, Breck's, and Cooper's
batteries on the north side of the river. Meanwhile Cutler's (Fourth) division
was going into position on the right of the First. The column moved by the
flank and formed into echelon of regiments as it neared the corner of the
woods. One brigade had joined on to the right of the First Division and
extended to the edge of the woods. The First Brigade was advancing toward an
open ridge on the right of the woods, when the enemy's line of battle arose
from behind the ridge, fired a volley, and at once charged upon their flank.
The brigade gave way. Mink's battery (H, First New York) was moving up behind
the column to take position on the ridge so soon as gained by the division.
Being present at this time, I at once desired Captain Davis, brigade inspector,
to direct him to cover our right flank. Captain Mink advanced in line and came
into position at canister range and soon checked the enemy's advance.
Matthewson's battery (E, First New York) and Walcott's (C, Massachusetts) were
also brought up at a trot and formed on the right of Mink's, so as to cover all
our flanks to the river. The behavior of all these batteries was admirable and
their firing excellent. By it the attack of the enemy was repulsed and our
infantry enabled to reform. Their losses were severe. Captain Davis was
mortally wounded in endeavoring to rally the broken infantry in rear of Mink's
battery. Lieutenant Matthewson, and Lieutenant Cargill, of C, Massachusetts,
were hit soon after their batteries went into position. In Captain Davis I lost
one of the most promising young officers in the service. Modest, gentlemanly,
hardworking, and every inch a soldier, he had won the highest commendations
from all he had served with. Bigelow's battery, in rear of our lines, and
Sheldon's, on the north bank, also fired a few rounds. The engagement lasted
till after dark, when our lines were well established.

May 24.-Mink's, Walcott's, Richardson's (D, New York) batteries remained in
position on right of line. Stewart's and Hart were advanced to the left about
600 yards, and posted near the Fontaine house. At dusk Major Fitzhugh with the
two last-named, batteries and Phillips reported to General Griffin, commanding
First Division; no engagement.

May 25.-The line was extended to the left to join the Ninth Corps. The three
batteries with Major Fitzhugh were engaged at times during the day on the
skirmish line of General Griffin's front, but could elicit no reply from the
enemy's artillery, although we suffered considerably from the enemy's
sharpshooters. Our object of posting the batteries, however, was gained in
partially silencing the enemy's skirmishers in front of the Fourth Division.
Cooper's, Breck's, and Walcott's batteries were also in position on the front
of Crawford's division, the left of the corps, but not engaged.

May 26.-Not engaged. The infantry engaged in destroying the railroad. At dark
the corps withdrew to north side of the river.

May 27.-Moved down the north bank of Pamunkey and camped for the night in the
neighborhood of Mangohick and Brandywine.

May 28.-Crossed the Pamunkey at ford near Hanovertown about noon, the corps
taking position on the south bank in front of Dr. Brockenbrough house and
intrenching, the left resting on the Totopotomoy and the right crossing the
main road to Haw's Store. The following batteries were in position from right
to left: Cooper's, Stewart's, Bigelow's, Barnes', Breck's, and Phillips'. There
was no engagement at this point.

May 29.-Moved at 10 a. m. by way of Haw's Store, and formed on left of Ninth
Corps, the First Division being the left of our line and reaching across the
Totopotomoy to Widow Via's farm. Major Fitzhugh had Rittenhouse's,
Richardson's, and Mink's batteries in position at this point, the first of
which threw a few shell into the woods toward Mechanicsville road. The
remaining batteries were parked near headquarters at the Norman house.

May 30.-The whole corps advanced to the Via house. The First Division was
pushed up the Shady Grove road, accompanied by Major Fitzhugh's three
batteries, Mink engaging the enemy's battery which opened on the head of the
column. The Third Division at the same time moved out to gain the
Mechanicsville pike. Their skirmishers had just crossed it near Tinsley's
house, when the enemy charged and drove the division back nearly to the Shady
Grove road. Richardson's battery immediately took position across the road by
which the Third Division was retreating, and opened with solid shot, and
afterward with canister, when the enemy made a determined charge upon this
point. Lieutenant Richardson received great credit from General Griffin and
Crawford for the handling of his battery at this point. Mink's battery was
posted on the north side of the Shady Grove road immediately in front of the
Bowles house, and Breck's was brought up on the left of Richardson's. At the
same time Rittenhouse, Walcott, and Bigelow were posted on the extreme left of
our line near the Armstrong house, the last named also having a good field of
fire over the open ground around the Bowles house, should we be drawn back from
that position. Later in the day the three batteries were pushed forward about
800 yards across a small run to a ridge, from which they could command the
Mechanicsville road at and to the east of Bethesda Church. All these batteries
were engaged during the p. m. in a sharp contest with the enemy's guns posted
near the church and the Tinsley house.

May 31.-Not engaged. Captain Cooper started for Harrisburg with 44 of his men
whose term of service had expired. There were enough men left to render the
battery effective; Lieutenant Miller remained in command.

June 1.-By orders from corps headquarters, Phillips, Stewart, and Richardson
were assigned to the First Division. The left of the corps was swinging around
across the Mechanicsville pike, and during the day pushed through the woods to
within sight of the enemy's works, at short musket range. While this was being
done I endeavored, in accordance with orders, to establish a section of
Rittenhouse's battery on the wood road to the left of the pike, and one of
Sheldon's on the pike itself; the first was able to hold its position for half
an hour, the latter only a few minutes, before they were overwhelmed by the
enemy's fire and obliged to withdraw. Both sections suffered severely; Captain
Sheldon received a very ugly wound in the face. An hour before dark received
orders to establish two batteries on the skirmish line in front of Bartlett's
brigade. On reaching the line of battle Major Fitzhugh found that our
skirmishers had fallen back from the position he was to occupy, and that
Bartlett's brigade was hotly engaged. The batteries were consequently
withdrawn. During the night, our line having been advanced up the wood road
spoken of to outer edge of the woods, Rittenhouse's and Barnes' batteries were
placed in position there on the left of the wood road; Walcott's and Hart's on
the right.

June 2.-The position held by the four batteries last mentioned was exposed to
the fire of a large portion of the enemy's lines, at ranges of from 800 to
1,500 yards. They also obtained an ugly cross-fire on them from a detached work
opposite the extreme left of the corps, and the rebel sharpshooters were within
200 yards. About 10 a. m. Crawford's division was extended to the left.
Miller's, Rogers', Breck's, and Bigelow's batteries with it and posted, the
first two to the front and left of the Jenkins house, Breck's half a mile to
our left, filling the gap of 500 yards between our left and Birney's division,
of Second Corps. Bigelow's battery was got into an excellent position, after
considerable labor, about half way between Barnes and Miller, where they
obtained excellent fire on the enemy's detached work, forcing them to withdraw
the guns; also an enfilading fire upon their skirmish line in the woods in
front of Third Division. All the above-named batteries were hotly engaged
throughout the day. About 5 p. m., the corps being under orders to move to the
left and connect with the Eighteenth Corps, Barnes' and Walcott's batteries
were withdrawn and together with Mink's marched to near the position held by
Breck, where they camped for the night. The Ninth Corps being attacked soon
after, while falling back to occupy the position we were to leave, this move
was stopped. The enemy pushed up the Mechanicsville road and around by Shady
Grove (our right), occupying the ground held by us on the 30th. Stewart's
battery went into position across the Mechanicsville road half a mile west of
the church, under a fire of canister, and succeeded in driving off the enemy's
battery.

June 3.-All the batteries were in position to-day, and more or less engaged.
Phillips', Richardson's, Stewart's, and Mink's, parallel
to north of the Mechanicsville road, were pushed forward by batteries with the
line of battle. The ground was gained under a galling fire of artillery and
musketry at considerable loss, the enemy's batteries being securely posted
under cover. They were, however, at last driven out and their position occupied
by our skirmishers, when it was found also that their loss had been heavy, 20
dead horses lying around where their guns had been. During this time they also
charged down the Mechanicsville road and through the woods, driving [sic] its
north side, but were repulsed by Ayres' brigade, with the aid of Hart's and
Rittenhouse's batteries. The former looked directly up the road, and the enemy
reached within short canister range of the battery before they were checked.
Barnes' and Walcott's batteries had been brought back from the left, as well as
Mink's, and were posted in their old position on either side of the wood road.
Together with the batteries at the left they were frequently engaged with the
enemy's artillery during the day.

June 4 and 5.-The batteries remained pretty much in the same positions. Late in
the p. m. of the 5th they were all withdrawn and moved with the corps to the
open ground between the Lacy and Burnett houses.

June 6 to 11.-The corps remained in reserve during this time; all the batteries
in camp. Rittenhouse's, Rogers', and Walcott's were assigned to Second
Division, reorganized under command of Brigadier-General Ayres. On the 11th,
broke camp and moved to Williamsburg stage road. Camped near Providence
Meeting-House

I remain, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. S. WAINWRIGHT,
Colonel First New York Artillery, Commanding Brigade.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. DEPT. OF WEST VIRGINIA,
No. 171.} Near Summit Point, W. Va., September 14, 1864.

3. Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, Captain Frank C. Gibbs, is hereby relieved
from duty in the Military District of Harper's Ferry and will proceed
immediately to these headquarters and report for duty to Captain H. A. Du
Pont, chief of artillery.

4. Battery E, First West Virginia Artillery, Captain A. C. Moore, will proceed
immediately to Harper's Ferry, W. Va., and report for duty to Brigadier
General John D. Stevenson commanding Military District of Harper's Ferry.

By command of Brevet Major-General Crook:
P. G. BIER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SIXTH ARMY CORPS, September 14, 1864.
Brigadier General L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D.C.:

GENERAL; The term of service of Colonel Charles H. Tompkins, who has been for
a long time chief of artillery of this corps, is about to expire, and I am
desirous that he should be retained in that position, if practicable. His
regiment, the First Rhode Island Light Artillery, was mustered in by batteries,
the difference in time between the dates of muster of the first and last being
more than two months, so that the batteries are being mustered out as their
terms of service expire. The last battery will have accomplished its three
years' service in May next. By some special arrangement the field and staff
were mustered in before the regimental organization was compete, and their term
of service therefore expires before that of four of the batteries. Colonel
Tompkins is the only one of those originally mustered, and there is at present
no regimental staff. Of the other field officers now belonging to the regiment,
the major is absent on sick leave, and the period of his return uncertain,
while the lieutenant-colonel is chief of artillery in the [Ninth] Corps, so
that neither is available to take the place as chief of artillery in this
corps.

I have, therefore, the honor to recommend that authority be given for the
retention of Colonel Tompkins in service till the term of service of the last
battery of his regiments expires, and that he be permitted to remain till then
in his present position. The interests of the artillery arm of this corps, in
which there are twelve assigned batteries, require that the chief of artillery
should have rank above the battery commanders, and Colonel Tompkins has, by his
service of three years, shown that he is admirably fitted for the position. His
muster-out will be a loss to the service and I therefore trust that his
retention, as recommended, may be authorized.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. W. WRIGHT,
Major-General, Commanding.

SPECIAL ORDERS,}HDQRS. MIDDLE MILITARY DIVISION,
No.37.} September 17, 1864.

2. Lieutenant James Chester, Third U. S. Artillery, is hereby appointed acting
ordnance officer of the Horse Artillery Brigade, serving with the cavalry, and
ordered to report to Captain L. L. Livingston, chief of artillery.

By command of Major-General Sheridan:
C. KINGSBURY, JR.,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Near Strasburg, Va., September 21, 1864.

Captain E. D. TAFT,
Acting Chief of Artillery, Detachment Nineteenth Army Corps:

CAPTAIN: The Nineteenth Corps is ordered to move at daybreak to-morrow, to
occupy the position occupied by General Wright's corps this evening. General
Grover has been ordered to withdraw the two regiments supporting the battery on
the hill on our left before daylight. The general commanding directs, also,
that you post a battery in the same position as that occupied by the battery of
General Wright that opened fire this evening.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
DUNCAN S. WALKER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

Report of Captain Elijah D. Taft, Fifth New York Battery, Chief of
Artillery, of operations September 19-22.

HDQRS. DETACHMENT NINETEENTH ARMY CORPS,
OFFICE CHIEF OF ARTILLERY,
Near Harrisonburg, Va., September 26, 1864.

MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the
two batteries in reserve, viz, Seventeenth Indiana and D, First Island
Artillery:
About 10 a. m. on the 19th instant, in compliance with orders from
Major-General Emory, I directed Captain Miner, Seventeenth Indiana Battery, to
place one section of his battery in position on the left of the Nineteenth Army
Corps, and open fire on the enemy in front, which was done with apparent good
effect. Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery, by my direction, took position
in a skirt of woods on the right of the Nineteenth Army Corps, and immediately
opened fire on one of the enemy's batteries, then enfilading our lines on the
right, when the enemy opened fire from two guns int he wood with canister,
about 200 yards distant and in rear of our line of infantry. The battery soon
silenced these two guns, and then renewed the fire on the battery enfilading
our line, silencing it for a short period, but the infantry falling back for
want of ammunition rendered the position unsafe for artillery. The battery had
whilst in this position, although under a severe fire front and left oblique,
been gallantly fought. The support having retired, and the battery having lost
four men and six horses and one wheel broken, I ordered it to withdraw, which
was done in good order. This closed the operations of these batteries for the
day.

On the 20th marched to near Strasburg. On the 21st Battery D, First Rhode
Island, took position to the left and rear of the town of Strasburg, and opened
fire on the enemy on the left of the pike, with good effect, firing a barn near
which he enemy had troops and a battle-flag. One section of the Seventeenth
Indiana Battery, in compliance with my instructions, took position south of the
town near the brick church and opened fire on the enemy, causing them to change
the position of some of their troops and trains. On the morning of the 22nd
Battery D, First Rhode Island Artillery, took position on the line of the
Second Division in front of a skirt of woods and opened fire on the enemy, and
after the hill in front of their position had been occupied by the troops of
the Second Division, Lieutenant Grant moved forward with one
section (two guns) of the Fifth New York Battery to the skirmish line, and
firing a few well-directed rounds of canister and case-shot soon drove the
enemy's sharpshooters from the wood in a ravine near the railroad, and then
shelled the enemy's works, driving them from their works in front of the First
Division. About 4.30 p. m. one section of D, First Rhode Island, took position
on the left of Lieutenant Grant's section and shelled the enemy's guns on our
immediate front. About 11 a. m. Captain Miner, Seventeenth Indiana Battery, in
compliance with instructions, took position with his battery in the earth-works
in the rear of the town, and at intervals during the afternoon shelled the
enemy with good effect. This closed the operations incident to the battles of
Winchester and Strasburg. For reports of casualties* and ammunition expended by
the batteries mentioned above, please see inclosures.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. D. TAFT,
Captain and Chief of Artillery.

Report of Captain John B. Eaton, Twenty-seventh New York Battery,
Reserve Artillery.

TWENTY-SEVENTH NEW YORK BATTERY,
August 10,1864.

LIEUTENANT: In compliance with Special Orders, No.209, headquarters Army of the
Potomac, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by
my battery in the operations of the present campaign:

At the crossing of the Rapidan my battery was attached to the Reserve
Artillery, Ninth Corps, under command of Captain John Edwards, Third U.S.
Artillery, and in common with the other batteries of the reserve was not
engaged during the battle of the Wilderness, though in position near the
Wilderness Tavern during the engagement of May 6.

The artillery of the reserve, including my battery, joined the Artillery
Reserve, Army of the Potomac, on the 7th, marched with it to Piney Grove
Church, and was held in reserve during most of the fighting at Spotsylvania.

Marched from Piney Grove Church on the 10th and reached Fredericksburg on the
15th. On the 17th the Artillery Reserve, Army of the Potomac, was broken up,
and the Reserve Artillery, of the Ninth Corps, ordered to Belle Plain, which we
reached on the 18th. Left there on the 24th for Port Royal, but my own battery
was detached on the same day and ordered to Fredericksburg, where I arrived
that night. Left there and marched to Port Royal on the 28th with a column of
provisional troops under command of Colonel J.F. Staunton.

Left Port Royal on the 31st with a brigade of heavy artillery and pontoon
train, commanded by Colonel A.A. Gibson, Second Pennsylvania Artillery.
Crossed the Mattapony June 2, and the Pamunkey on the 4th, rejoining the Ninth
Corps and being attached to the First Division (General Crittenden), then at
Woody's farm.

Remained at or near Cold Harbor until June 12, under fire much of the time, but
not actively engaged. Marched on the night of the 12th toward the
Chickahominy.

Very respectfully,
JNO. B. EATON,
Captain, Commanding Twenty-seventh New York Battery.

Organization of Artillery operating against
Petersburg, under Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant, U.S. Army

Artillery
Brigadeer-General Henry J. Hunt, commanding

Siege Artillery;
Col. Henry L. Abbot
1st. Conn. Heavy (5co's) Maj. George B. Cook
1st. Conn. Heavy (7co's) Maj. Albert F. Brooker
3d. Conn. Battery, Capt. Thomas S. Gilbert
14th Mass. Capt. Joseph W. B. Wright
2nd Me. Capt. Albert F. Thomas
3rd Me. Capt Ezekiel R. Mayo
F; 15th N.Y. Heavy, Capt. Calvin Schaffer
H; 1st. R.I. Capt. Crawford Allen jr
3rd Vt., Capt. Romeo H. Start

Army of the Potomac

SECOND ARMY CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Maj. John G. Hazzard
6th Me. Leut. H. Rogers
10th. Mass., Capt. Henry Sleeper
M, First N.H.. Capt. Frederick M Edgell
2nd. N.J. (B) Capt. A. Judson Clark
3rd. N.J. (C) Capt. Christian Woerner
G, 1st. N.Y. Capt. Ilan
C, 4th N.Y. Heavy, Capt. James H. Wood
L, 4th N.Y. Heavy Lieut. Richard Kennedy
11th, N.Y. Lieut George W. Davey
12th. N.Y. Lieut William S. Bull
F, 1st. Pa. Lieut John F. Campbell
B, 1st. R.I. Capt. T. Fred Brown
K, 4th. U.S. Lieut. John W. Roder
C and I, 5th. U.S. Lieut. William B. Beek

FIFTH ARMY CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Col. Charles Wainwright
Mal. Robert H. Fitzhugh
5th. Mass.,Capt Charles A. Phllipa
9th. Mass., Lieut. Richard S. Milton
B. 1st. N.Y., Lieut. Robert E. Rogers
C. 1st. N.Y., Capt. David F. Ritchie
D, 1st. N.Y., Capt. James B Hazelton
E, 1st. N.Y., Capt Angell Matthewson
H, 1st. N.Y., Capt Charles E. Mink
L, 1st. N.Y., Capt. George Breck
B, 1st. Pa, Lieut. William McClelland
B, 4th. U.S., Lieut. John Mitchell
Dand G, 5th. U.S., Lieut. Jacob B. Rawles

SIXTH ARMY CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Col. Charles H. Tompkins
4th. Me., Lieut Charles W. White
1st N.J. (A), Capt.Augustin N. Parsons
3rd. N.Y. Lieut. Alexander S. McCain
H, 1st Ohio, Capt. Stephen W. Dorsey
E, 1st. R.I., Lieut. Ezra K. Parker
5th. U.S., Lieut. John R. Brickle

NINTH ARMY CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Col. John T. Tidball
7th. Me., Capt Adelbert B. Twitchell
11th. Mass., Capt. Edward J. Jones
19th. N.Y., Lieut. Alfred B. Losee
27th N.Y., Capt. John B. Eaton
34th. N.Y., Capt. Jacob Roemer
D, Pa., Capt. Samuel H. Rhoads

Army of the James

TWENTY-FOURTH CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Maj. Charles C. Abell
E, 3rd. N.Y., Capt. George E. Ashby
H, 3rd. N.Y., Capt. William J. Riggs
K, 3rd. N.Y., Capt. James R. Angel
M, 3rd. N.Y., Capt, John H. Howell
7th. N.Y., Lieut. Martin V. McIntyre
16th. N.Y., Capt. Richard H. Lee
17th. N.Y. Lieut. Hiram D. Smith
A, 1st. Pa., Capt. William Stitt
F, 1st. R.I., Lieut. Robert B. Smith
L, 4th. U.s., Lieut. Richard Wilson
A, 5th. U.S., Lieut. Charles P Muhlenberg
F, 5th.U.S. Lieut. Leonard Martin

TWENTY-FIFTH CORPS
ARTILLERY BRIGADE
Lieut-Col. Richard H. Jackson
1st. Conn., Capt. James B. Clinton
4th. N.J., Capt. Charles R. Doane
5th. N.J., Lieut. Henry H. Metcalf
16th. N.Y. Heavy, Lieut. Silas J. Truax
E, 1st. Pa., Capt Henry Y Wilsey
c, 3rd. R.I., Capt. Martin S. James
D, 1st. U.S., Lieut. Redmond Tully
M, 1st. U.S., Capt. Loomis L. Langdon
E, 3rd. U.S. Lieut. John R. Myrick
D, 4th. U.S., Capt. Frederick M. Follett

GENERAL ORDERS, } HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 20.} In the Field, near Hatcher's,Va., August 2,1864.

So much of General Orders, Numbers 10, current series, from these headquarters
as assigned batteries to divisions is revoked. The batteries of the corps will
form the Artillery Brigade, under the command of the senior artillery officer
present, and will be assigned to divisions for duty from time to time as the
exigencies of the service demand.

During the campaign two batteries of artillery, to be assigned by the chief of
artillery, will move with each division, unless a different order of assignment
is indicated in the orders of the day from these headquarters.

For the purpose of discipline and supplies, the authority of the chief of
artillery over the batteries assigned to divisions will be as when in permanent
camp. For military purposes, the batteries will be under charge of division
commanders.

When the chief of artillery is present with the artillery of a division engaged
in action, he will be particularly responsible for the position and proper
management of the batteries.

As, under act of Congress, July 17, 1862 (page 539, Army Regulations), the
chief of artillery is also ordnance officer of the corps, division ordnance
officers will report to him promptly in their department.

The brigade organization will be perfected at once under the senior artillery
officer now on duty in the corps.

By command of Major General D. B. Birney:
ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 205.} Before Petersburg, Va., August 7, 1864.

3. The Fourth New York Heavy Artillery is assigned to the First Division of the
corps, and will report accordingly.

By order of Major-General Hancock:
FRANCIS A. WALKER, Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE,
Numbers 268. Washington, August 12, 1864.

41. First Lieutenant C. C. Chaffee, Ordnance Department, is hereby relieved
from duty at Allegheny, Pa., and will report in person without
delay to the commanding general Army of the Potomac to relieve First.
Lieutenant M. Schaff, Ordnance Department, in his duties as depot ordnance
officer, Army of the Potomac.

42. First Lieutenant M. Schaff, Ordnance Department, on being relieved from
duty in the Army of the Potomac, will repair at once to Reading, Pa., and
relive Captain S. C. Lyford, Ordnance Department, in his duties as inspector
of cannon and projectiles at that place.

By order of the Secretary of War:
E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES,
Numbers 72. City Point, Va., August 12, 1864.

I. Colonel F. McGilvery, First Maine Light Artillery, is temporarily relieved
from duty with the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person to Major
General B. F. Butler, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina,
for assignment as chief of artillery of the Tenth Army Corps, Major General
D. B. Birney, commanding.

By command of Lieutenant-General Grant:
T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 24. In Field, near Hatcher's, Va., August 13, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel F. McGilvery, First Maine Light Artillery, having reported
for duty in obedience to orders from the War Department, is hereby announced as
chief of artillery and of ordnance of the corps, and will at once assume
command of the Artillery Brigade, relieving Captain F. M. Follett, Fourth
Artillery, who will resume command of this battery.

By command of Major General D. B. Birney:
ED. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
August 13, 1864.

Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: The enemy has established a battery of rifled 32-pounders just behind
the crest near the plank road, in front of and about 1,300 yards from our large battery
near the Taylor house. As yet, but one or two guns have been opened on us. The position
is well covered from our direct fire. I would recommend that four 10-inch or 8-inch,
preferable 10-inch, mortars be placed in position near the Taylor house to control it.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS FIRST CONNECTICUT ARTILLERY,
August 13, 1864.

Lieutenant B. P. LEARNED,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Siege Train:

LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that yesterday, at 3 p. m., I arrived at
Dutch Gap with a 100-pounder gun, which was taken to its position with the
least possible delay. There were no preparations made for placing the gun in
position; the parapet was about three feet high; no platform laid; no magazine
yet commenced at dark last evening; yet it is expected by Major Ludlow to have
the gun in position ready for service this morning.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
S. P. HATFIELD,
Captain , First Connecticut Artillery, Ordnance Officer, Siege Train.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
August 14, 1864-a. m.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT:

Four 10-inch mortar with a proper supply of ammunition are wanted in the
battery near the Taylor house to control a battery of 32-pounder rifles just
beyond the crest, distance from 1,200 to 1,500 yards. It would be well to get
them out to-day ready to move; they may be ordered into battery to-night. I
will inform you then whether to send them. Please answer.

HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 14, 1864-8.45 a. m.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

Your dispatch in relation to mortars for Taylor house is received. Will make
all preparations for forwarding to-night if you so direct.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 14, 1864-10.30 a. m.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac;

If the 10-inch mortars are ordered forward, I would earnestly request that they
be put in the fourteen-gun battery where Pratt's 4 1/2 inch guns were. The
range is essentially the same. The approach to this battery is very good, and
to the old battery very bad, a matter of great importance in supplying 10-inch
ammunition on account of its great weight; and, moreover, this battery is well
made and the old battery very ill constructed, constantly caving under mortar
fire.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
August 14, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

It is not probable that the 10-inch mortars will be ordered up to-night. When
they do come they are to go into the fourteen-gun battery near the Taylor
house.

H. J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 14, 1864.

Captain EDSON,
Ordnance Officer, Fort Monroe, Va.:

I am out of my supply of Coehorn mortar shells and the rebels are taking
advantage of it. Please send me any shells and wooden plugs which you can
possibly procure, on the mail boat, telegraphing me when they start. I don't
care for prepared ammunition. Time is very important.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 14, 1864.

Brigadier-General RAMSAY, Chief of Ordnance, U. S. Army,
Winder's Building, Washington, D. C.:

I have sixteen Coehorn mortars in position and not a shell in depot for them.
The rebels keep out a constant mortar fire on us. I don't care for prepared
ammunition; all I want are shells, fuse-plugs, and paper fuses. These must be
received very shortly or the army will suffer. I wrote on 15th ultimo, and
telegraphed on 19th ultimo and 11th instant for a large supply. Please inform
me at once whether I am to be supplied. Please also send 2,000 Parrott
time-fuse plugh for siege guns.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

WATER BATTERY, August 26, 1864.
(Received 2.15 p. m.)

Captain NORTON:

The 100-pounder Parrot in the Water Battery has opened on Howlett's. The enemy
are replying.

BRUYN, Lieutenant and Signal Officer.

BUTLER'S HEADQUARTERS,
August 26, 1864. (Received 9.30 a. m.)

Colonel ABBOT:

Send three 8-inch mortars to Major Ludlow at Dutch Gap.

By command of Major-General Butler:
J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 26, 1864-9.45 o'clock.

Colonel SHAFFER, Chief of Staff to General Butler:

Will send the mortars without delay. Please instruct the engineer department to
make another magazine at Dutch Gap without delay. That already there was
designed only for the 100-pounder gun. Since then I have sent two guns and five
mortars; the ammunition is exposed even now more than is safe, especially if
the rebels use mortars.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BUTLER'S HEADQUARTERS,
August 26, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Beside the magazine for the 100-pounder there is at Dutch Gap one magazine six
by six feet, ready to receive ammunition. Will that do?

H. A. VEZIN, Lieutenant and Assistant Engineer.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., August 26, 1864-1 p. m.

Lieutenant VEZIN,
Engineer Department, General Butler's Staff:

I think another magazine should be made at Dutch Gap. the demand for more
artillery seems to be constant, and there is not even with the new magazine
enough for what is now there.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
August 27, 1864.

Colonel MONROE, Chief of Artillery, Ninth Corps:

Eight guns from your corps are ordered to Baltimore. Send a section each of
Eaton's, Rogers', Mayo's, and of Start's batteries to City Point to report to
Colonel Bowers, adjutant-general to General Grant. The cannoneers need not go
with them. The horses and drivers you will direct to return to their batteries
as soon as the guns are turned over at City Point. They will bring back the
caissons with them if those are not needed. Rogers' and Start's batteries are
with the corps. Eaton's and Mayo's being in the works here, I will give them
their orders. I wish you would hurry rogers and Start. Inform me at once of the
receipt of this, and your action, and report when the sections leave.

HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
No.233. } August 29, 1864.

6. The Artillery Brigade of the Ninth Corps will be constituted as follows,
Lieutenant Colonel J. A. Monroe, First Rhode Island Artillery, commanding:
Roemer's battery, Thirty-fourth New York, four 3-inch guns; Durell's battery
(Pennsylvania), six 3-inch guns; Jones' battery, Eleventh Massachusetts, four
3-inch guns; Eaton's battery, Twenty-seventh New York, four Napoleons:
Twitchell's battery, Seventh Maine, four Napoleons; Rogers' battery, Nineteenth
New York, four Napoleons. The following-named batteries, now in the Ninth
Corps, are transferred to the Artillery Reserve, and will report to
Brigadier-General Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac, who will give
the necessary instructions for the organization of the artillery park of the
corps, and for the transfer of the surplus material to the artillery park of
the army: Start's, Third Vermont, four 3-inch guns; Thomas', Second Maine, four
3-inch guns; Mayo's, Third Maine, four 3-inch guns; Wright's, Fourteenth
Massachusetts, four 3-inch guns.

By command of Major-General Meade:
S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
August 29, 1864 - 10 p. m.

Major-General HANCOCK:

The artillery on the lines is under my general charge. The generals having
charge of portions of the line give such orders to the batteries as their
positions or circumstances require. All the batteries of the Sixth Corps, the
only serviceable ones at my disposal, are now in position. There are none to
replace yours, as there is no reserve artillery.

HENRY J. HUNT, Brigadier-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Before Petersburg, Va., August 29, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel J. A. MONROE, Chief of Artillery, Ninth Army Corps:

COLONEL: I inclose herewith Special Orders, Numbers 233,* current series, of
this date, from headquarters Army of the Potomac, reducing and designating the
batteries of your corps. The batteries named will constitute the brigade of
your corps for the present and will be sufficient for its wants, as
Major-General Meade states that the number of divisions will be reduced to
three. General Orders, Numbers 82, # Army of the Potomac, of 1863, defines the
duties of the chief of artillery of this army and will guide you in your duties
and responsibility to him. A copy of the order has been transmitted to
Major-General Parke by the adjutant-general of this army. If you have no copy
of it you will please request permission of General Parke to take a copy of
his. You already have the orders for the organization of your park, the number
of rounds of ammunition for each gun, the number of wagons can be easily
calculated, and the number of forage wagons (five to each twenty-five
ammunition wagons) for forage and provisions. Each battery is allowed five
wagons - one for baggage, & c., and four for provisions and forage. (See
General Orders, Numbers 27, July 1, 1864, headquarters Army of the Potomac,
paragraphs 9 and 11.+) You will calculate the number of wagons authorized
according to that order, complete and submit it to me, and, upon approval,
complete your train from the wagons you now have, when orders will be given you
to turn over the surplus to the artillery park of the army. You will complete
the staff of your brigade as soon as practicable and make arrangements for the
prompt and regular supply of rations and forage. It is desirable that the
artillery of your corps should be kept as much as possible together, and it is
General Meade's instructions that when batteries are assigned by the corps
commanders for service with the divisions their administration and supplies
will be provided for from the Artillery Brigade.

When the troops are detached from the corps so as to make it necessary,
instructions will be given in time to the batteries to draw their supplies from
the division or brigade to which they are attached.

I send you herewith a copy of Special Orders, Numbers 279, of October 28, 1863,
from headquarters Army of the Potomac, respecting wagons to accompany
batteries. It is always a saving of horses and of efficiency to have sufficient
wagons to accompany batteries to transport forage. I also send you two copies
each of General Orders, Nos. 2 and 5, from these headquarters. There are so few
copies of them on hand that I cannot send you more. You will please cause the
commanders and officers of your batteries to be instructed as to their
requirements, and, if desired, leave a copy of each with General Parke, to
whom, in obedience to paragraph 489, General Regulations, you will submit them
and all other instructions sent you from these headquarters. Full and prompt
reports to these headquarters respecting the service under your direction and
all that concerns the artillery are expected from you, that every means may be
promptly taken to make and keep your artillery efficient.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General, Chief of Artillery.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS, LIGHT ARTILLERY BRIGADE, TENTH ARMY CORPS
No.15. } August 29, 1864.

In pursuance of orders from general headquarters, commanding officers of rifled
guns in position to reach the city of Petersburg will open fire upon a central
part of the town at 8.15 or 8.30 o'clock this evening, and continue the fire
for one and a half hours. The fire should be delivered with care and with a
certainty of reaching the town.

By command of F. McGilvery, colonel First Maine Light Artillery and chief of
artillery: O. S. DEWEY, Lieutenant and Aide-de-Camp.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE TRAIN,
Broadway Landing, Va., August 31, 1864 .

Brigadier General H. J. HUNT,
Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: The following is a list of the companies of my regiment now on duty in
the Petersburg lines, with their guns, &c.: Company A (fourteen-gun battery),
Taylor's house, two 4 1/2-inch guns, four 10-inch mortars; Company D, near
Hare's house, four 8-inch mortars, five Coehorns; Company G, between Hare's
house and railroad (Suffolk), two 8-inch mortars, eleven Coehorns; half of
Company I, near Spring Hill (reserve), two 20-pounder Parrotts; half of Company
I, near Jordan's house, one 13-inch mortar; half of Company F, near Jordan's
house, three 30-pounder Parrotts; half of Company F, extreme right of line,
four 8-inch mortars; Company M, near Avery's house, four 4 1/2-inch guns;
total, forty-two.

Your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery

SPECIAL ORDERS, } HDQRS. ARTILLERY Brigadier , SECOND CORPS,
Numbers 141.} September 1, 1864.

Battery K, Fourth U. S. Artillery, Lieutenant J. W. Roder commanding, is
relieved from duty with the First Division of the corps. Lieutenant Roder will
report without delay with his battery at these headquarters. The Third New
Jersey Battery, C and I, Fifth United States, and the Twelfth New York Battery
will unhitch and unharness.

By command of Major John G. Hazard:
U. D. EDDY, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 1, 1864 - 6.30 a. m.

Major TRUMBULL,
First Connecticut Artillery, Headquarters Tenth Corps:

I have ordered Captain Brooker to relieve you. He will arrive probably by noon.
The ambulance which brings his baggage will bring back yours, and yourself,
too, if you prefer if to horseback. I shall come down with Captain Brooker.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery,

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE ARTILLERY,
Broadway Landing, Va., September 1, 1864.

Major R. S. DAVIS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Va. and N. C.:

MAJOR: I have the honor to inclose a copy of paragraph IV, Special Orders,
Numbers 123, headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps. I would respectfully protest
against this order: first, because it annuls General Orders, Numbers -,
headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, dated June 19, 1864
(copy herewith inclosed), and thus deprives me of the command assigned to me by
the commanding general of the department; and, second, because it destroys the
organization of the siege artillery of the department, and thus impairs its
efficiency. When the lines of Bermuda Hundred were first constructed its fixed
artillery armament was decided upon by the proper engineer and artillery officers and
approved by the commanding general. These artillery troops were organized into
a command independent of both corps then occupying the lines, and ordered to
report direct to department headquarters. All morning reports, &c., desired by
the different corps commanders for their information were forwarded to them,
and all firing was conducted in strict accordance with their orders; but the
independent organization of the command was established, and it has been
strictly preserved. I have supplied these troops with ammunition, rations,
clothing, and, until the recent illness of my assistant surgeon, with medical
attendance. They have consequently never suffered by the numerous changes of
troops in their vicinity. An assistant inspector-general for my command has
been appointed by the commanding general after the inconvenience of depending
upon the corps commanders, for the services of this officer had been ordered to
the command for the same reason. In fine, the same organization established
after much study for the garrisons of the field-works around Washington, has
been adopted here. The troops, being fixed in position, while those about them
are constantly changing, have been organized into a separate command (Siege
Artillery, Department of Virginia and North Carolina), reporting direct to the
commanding general, and only receiving orders necessary to their proper
co-operation from the corps commanders about them. Their system, established by
the commanding general on May 17, and reaffirmed by him at the reorganization
on June 19, and kept constantly in force since that date, is entirely done away
with by the inclosed order from headquarters of Eighteenth Corps. The new
system destroys a compact, well-organized command, consisting of nine
companies, under the charge of Major Cook; deprives both him and myself of all
control; breaks up my command into thirteen independent batteries, depending
for everything upon the chief of artillery of a corps. Suppose a transfer of
corps to occur, these batteries would be left without a commanding officer,
without rations, without medical attendance, at the very time when the
necessary confusion would most invite an attack. Again, suppose the chief of
artillery of the Eighteenth Corps should think some change of armament
advisable. Under this order, that which has been fixed by the commanding
general of the department with much care might be changed without his knowledge
or consent. To me the disadvantages of the change appear so evident that I
cannot but protest against the order, and request that my command may be left
as heretofore organized.

I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding.

SPECIAL ORDERS, } HDQRS. EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 123. } In the Field, Va., September 1, 1864.

IV. Commanding officers of all heavy, siege, and permanent batteries now in
position on the front occupied by the Eighteenth Corps will report in person at
once to Colonel A. Piper, chief of artillery, Eighteenth Army Corps, who is
placed in command of all artillery from Deep Bottom to Fort Converse. They will
also send in daily to the headquarters of the artillery morning reports of the
strength of their batteries and such other information as may be useful to the
chief of artillery.

By command of Major General E. O. C. Ord:
THEODORE READ,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Indorsement.]
Let a proper order be issued putting the organization and command of the
artillery as was agreed upon and settled as the most for the benefit of the
service by the within order.

BENJ. F. BUTLER,
Major-General of Volunteers.

So much of Special Orders, Numbers 123. paragraph IV, issued from headquarters
Eighteenth Army Corps, as relates to the command of Colonel H. L. Abbot,
namely, the siege artillery, is hereby revoked, and Colonel Abbot will, as
heretofore, report only to these headquarters.

FORT MONROE ARSENAL, VA.,
September 2, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery, Broadway Landing:

SIR: Your letter of the 29th ultimo was received this morning, and in reply I
have to state that the 13-inch shells called for in your requisition of the
23rd instant were forwarded to City Point immediately on the receipt of your
requisition. With regard to the cartridges for the 4.5-inch and 30-pounder
rifled guns, I would state that some of them which have been sent you were
prepared at this arsenal and some were received from New York and other
arsenals. In preparing those sent from this arsenal, cannon powder has been
used exclusively for the 4.5-inch and mortar powder for the 30-pounders. No
mixture of different kinds of powder has been used.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. EDSON, Captain of Ordnance, Commanding.

Reports of Lieutenant Colonel Richard H. Jackson,
Assistant Inspector-General and Chief of Artillery,
Of operations September 3 and October 7.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., September 4,1864.

COLONEL:I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the artillery of the corps during the last twenty-four hours:

The enemy opened fire upon the batteries on the extreme left, but with little
effect, and were soon silenced. There was but little firing on the right during
the day. Captain Riggs, Battery H, Third New York Artillery, expended
seventy-five rounds on the enemy's working parties at work on the hill to the
left of the railroad. Lieutenant Stitt, Battery A, First Pennsylvania, reports
twenty-five rounds expended. He had the Crater in his immediate front and is in
good position to injure the enemy's work. Captain Orwig, Battery E, First
Pennsylvania, reports and expenditure of fifty-seven rounds. The whole number
of rounds expended by the artillery is 227. The enemy opened quite briskly from
their mortar batteries about 7.30 or 8 o'clock last evening. No casualties. The
sanitary condition of works and batteries is constantly and rapidly improving.
With the exception of the Hare battery, the whole line is in fair order.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R.H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant Colonel , Assistant Inspector-General and Chief of Artillery.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., September 4, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel E. W. SMITH,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Army Corps:

COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the artillery of the corps during the last twenty-four hours: The enemy opened
fire upon the batteries on the extreme left, but with little effect, and were
soon silenced. There was but little firing on the right during the day. Captain
Riggs' batter (H), Third New York Artillery, expended seventy-five rounds on
the enemy's working parties at work on the hill to the left of the railroad.
Lieutenant Stitt, Battery A, First Pennsylvania, reports twenty-five rounds
expended. He has the crater in his immediate front and is in a good position to
injure the enemy's works. Captain Orwig, Battery E, First
Pennsylvania, reports an expenditure of fifty-seven rounds. The whole number of
rounds expended by the artillery is 227. The enemy opened quite briskly from
their mortar batteries about 7.30 or 8 o'clock last evening. No casualties. The
sanitary condition of works and batteries is constantly and rapidly improving.
With the exception of the Hare battery the whole line is in fair order.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant Colonel , Assistant Inspector-General and Chief of Artillery.

HDQRS. LIGHT ARTILLERY Brigadier , TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., September 5, 1864.

Lieutenant Colonel E. W. SMITH,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Army Corps:

COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the artillery for the last twenty-four hours.

A salute of thirty-six scotted guns was fired at 11 p. m. yesterday from each
battery, in which about 500 rounds of ammunition were expended. The enemy
replied briskly from all his batteries along our front. Battery D, First U. S.
Artillery, was moved rom its position on the advanced line to a new unfinished
work on the second line, a little to the left an rear of its old position.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant-Colonel, Asst. Insp. General and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS SIEGE TRAIN,
Broadway Landing, Va., September 10, 1864.

Captain T. EDSON, Ordnance Officer, Fort Monroe:

CAPTAIN: I inclose a requisition for 100 fuses for my 13-inch mortar. The last
lot were very defective. It is reported to me that fifty were destroyed before
one fit to use was found. Some were filled with saw-dust; others very badly
worm eaten. As we fire over our own men for about a mile, it is essential that
we have good fuses, and I hope the new lot will be carefully selected. Please
forward them by the mail boat at the earliest opportunity, as they are waited
for.

Your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding.

DUTCH GAP, VA., September 10, 1864.

Colonel HENRY L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy have fired but fifteen or
twenty shots to-day and those in the forenoon; not a shot has been fired since
dinner. A deserter from their battery reported that there were 15 killed and
wounded by our light pieces to-day, and "he'll damned if he'll stay there any
longer." Wish they'd all come to the same wise conclusion. Please have no more
8-inch shell sent at present, but send plenty of case-shot for the light
12-pounder gun. There is no firing nights. Men are healthy.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

HDQRS. LIGHT ARTILLERY BRIGADE, TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., September 10, 1864.

Captain CHARLES H. GRAVES,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Army Corps:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of
the Artillery Brigade during the last twenty-four hours: Ninety rounds were
fire by our batteries at the enemy, he having opened nearly all his guns along
our front at 1.40 p. m. yesterday. One casualty: Private Ayers, of Company C,
First u. S. Artillery, attached to Light Battery D, First U. S. Artillery,
severely wounded in the thigh.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant Colonel , Asst. Inspector-General and Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND CORPS,
September 11, 1864.

Brigadier General H. J. HUNT,
Artillery Headquarters, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL: I have the honor to report no change observed or reported in the
enemy's lines during the last twenty-four hours. Picket-firing is kept up
constantly. A few shots were fired yesterday by the enemy's artillery and
replied to promptly by the batteries bearing on the point.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. M. EDGELL,
Captain, Commanding Brigade.

DUTCH GAP, VA., September 11, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy were perfectly quiet last
night and until about 5 o'clock to-day, when they ventured to fire six shell,
all of which burst among their own pickets. At the first shot we opened with
one 8-inch mortar and the light 12-pounder gun, causing them to cease firing
inside of forty minutes. Men are healthy; everything seems satisfactory. Am
anxious to have more spherical case sent for the 12-pounder gun.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 11, 1864.

Lieutenant-Colonel WHITE,
First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding Heavy Artillery with Tenth Corps,
Headquarters Tenth Corps:

Company E and three 30-pounder Parrotts will start by 2 p. m. They cannot go
into position before dark. Please see that Company F starts for Bermuda Hundred
as soon as the regimental order specifies. Please telegraph me when they start.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 11, 1864.

Lieutenant-Colonel WHITE,
First Connecticut Artillery, Headquarters Tenth Corps:

Company L will arrive at Captain Burton's battery about 2 p. m. to-morrow to
relieve Company G. Please meet them and see that the officers thoroughly learn
ranges, &c. Company G will use the same wagons to bring them to Captain Pride's
old station. See regimental order by bearer to-morrow morning.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS TENTH CORPS, September 11, 1864-8.45 p. m.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT:

Three 30-pounders, with the ammunition, are all at the battery, and teams and
wagons returned all safe. Your telegram regarding Company L is received.

NELSON L. WHITE,
Lieutenant-Colonel Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 11, 1864.

Captain MICHIE,
Chief Engineer, Headquarters General Butler:

It is reported to me that a heavy rifled shell from Howlett house battery
penetrated the cover of the magazine at Crow's Nest to within a foot of the
chamber, where it burst. I have never thought this magazine secure, and would
request that at least three feet be added to the exposed end.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HDQRS. CHIEF OF ARTILLERY, 18TH ARMY CORPS, September 13,1864.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,
Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps:

SIR:I respectfully request that I may be relieved from duty as chief of
artillery Eighteenth Corps, and ordered to join my regiment. My position is so
indistinctly defined that it is impossible for me to perform the duties
pertaining to that position with justice to myself or satisfaction to the corps
commander. For the information of the corps commander, I have the honor to
report that, in addition to the light batteries of the corps, there are in
position on the front occupied by the corps some forty-one guns and mortars,
manned by companies of the First Connecticut Artillery and a company of the
Thirteenth New York Artillery. On the arrival of the corps at this place the
officers in charge of those batteries failed to report to me or in any way
recognize me. On inquiry, it was found that up to the time of the arrival of
the Eighteenth Corps the batteries in position (heavy batteries) has been
considered as independent of the corps commander, and subject to the exclusive
jurisdiction of Colonel H.L. Abbot, First Connecticut Artillery, the corps
commander having a kind of delegated authority to direct the batteries to open
fire in case of necessity. In order that these battery commanders might
understand their true position Special Orders, No.123, headquarters Eighteenth
Army Corps, September 2, was issued. I understand that Colonel Abbot has
protested to department headquarters against this order as depriving him of
certain rights and privileges naturally belonging to him. At all events, an
order has just been received from department headquarters (Special Orders,
No.249, September 10) which revokes the order from corps headquarters so far as
relates to Colonel Abbot's command, and virtually removes the batteries
above referred to from the jurisdiction of the corps commander. As chief of
artillery of the corps I am held responsible by the corps commander for the
condition and efficiency of all the artillery pertaining to the corps, which
must include, of course, those batteries in position on the front occupied by
the corps, while at the same time those batteries are declared independent of
the corps and officers of the corps. Colonel Abbot very kindly allows a major
of his regiment to remain at these headquarters, to whom written instructions
have been given (see A). In these instructions I am permitted to give certain
orders, but the field officer is distinctly informed that my authority over him
and his command is limited. As my limited authority is conceded as a favor, not
recognized as a right, I shall positively decline any instructions until the
question of jurisdiction is settled. In view of the position in which I am
placed, I respectfully request that I may be relieved from my present duty and
ordered to my regiment.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. PIPER, Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.

ORDNANCE OFFICE,
Fort Monroe Arsenal, Va., September 14,1864.

Colonel H.L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery, Broadway Landing, Va.:

SIR:I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 10th instant with
regard to 13-inch mortar fuses. In reply I would state that the fuses referred
to were recently received here from the North, and that those of the same lot
which I have examined since the receipt of your letter appeared to be perfectly
good. If you will return me some of those which were filled with sawdust or
otherwise defective. I will have the matter fully investigated. In some cases I
find the priming in the top of the fuse is separated from the case, and if this
should happen to fall out the fuse would not be likely to ignite; but by
leaving the paper can on the fuse and cutting a small hole in it the priming
will be kept in its place and there should be no difficulty with the ignition
of the fuse.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
T. EDSON,
Captain of Ordnance, Commanding.

DUTCH GAP, VA., September 14,1864.

Colonel HENRY L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL:I have the honor to report that the enemy opened from a new battery
to-day, making a few good shots at the canal. Fired at them slowly with the
tree 8-inch mortars, the 10-pounder Parrott, the 10-inch sea-coast mortar, and
the 100-pounder Parrott, causing them
to cease firing soon dinner. The Howlett house opened a new battery, doing but
little execution and making a great deal of noise. Everything seems to be
favorable so far. There were but 4 men killed and 2 wounded to-day at the Gap
(darkies).

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H.H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

SPECIAL ORDERS, } HDQRS. ARTY. BRIGADE, SECOND CORPS,
No.53. September 15, 1864.

II. Burton's (Eleventh New York) battery will relieve Ricketts' battery (F),
First Pennsylvania Artillery, in the work near the plank road to-night after
dark. Captain Ricketts, when relieved, will move his battery into the work now
occupied by Captain Burton.

III. It having been reported that the enemy are moving in force down the Weldon
railroad, the following assignment of batteries to divisions is made in
anticipation of a movement of our troops: To First
Division, Roder's (K), Fourth United States; Edgell's, First New Hampshire; to
Second Division, Beck's (C and I), Fifth United States; Ames' (G), First New
York.
The commanders of the above-named batteries will report in person to their
respective division commanders at once, stating their location.

By command of Captain F.M. Edgell:
U.D. EDDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Septemer 19, 1864.

Honorable E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.:
(Through Headquarters Armies of the United States.)

SIR: I herewith forward a list of names of officers for brevet commissions
which I most earnestly recommend to your favorable consideration and which I
hope will receive your immediate action.

List of officers recommended for promotion by brevet in the Army of the
Potomac, Major General George G. Meade commanding.

To be major-general by brevet: Brigadier General H. J. Hunt, chief of
artillery, for gallantry and distinguished conduct at the battle of Gettysburg,
and for faithfull and highly meritorious services on the campaign from the
Rapidan to Petersburg; to date July1,1864.

To be brigadier-general by brevet: Colonel C. S. Wainwright, First New
York Artillery, chief of artillery, of brave, constant, and efficient services
in the battles and marches of the campaign.

To be lieutenant-colonel by brevet: Major J. G. Hazard, First Rhode Island
Light Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade, for distinguished services and
good conduct throughout the campaign, especially at Cold Harbor, Va.: to
date June 3, 1864.

To be captian brevet: Lieutenant S. N. Benjamin, Second U. S. Artillery,
for distinguished and gallant conduct at battle of Spotsylvania, in which
action he was wounded while serving as chief of artillery for the corps.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. G. MEADE,
Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Before Petersburg, September 20, 1864

Major-General HUMPHREYS,
Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: I yesterday examined the position of the large gun, apparently a
columbiad, recently placed in position by the enemy about 1,600 yards
northwesterly from Fort Morton. It is west of the railroad cut, about opposite
Fort Haskell, from which it is hidden by a wood. Fort Morton can bring four
guns to bear upon it, and I have directed the two siege guns now there, and
two others transferred from Battery 17, near the Avery house, with the 10-inch
mortars, to be opened upon it whenever it fires. In the meantime measures are
being taken to determine accurately the bearing and distance from the 8-inch
mortars near Forts Haskell and Stedman that a heavy fire may be concentrated
upon it.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

HDQRS. LIGHT ARTILLERY Brigadier , TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Before Petersburg, Va., September 20, 1864

Captain CHARLES H. GRAVES,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Army Corps:

CAPTAIN: I have nothing to report this morning, except the expenditure of 113
rounds of ammunition, fired at the enemy's works and working parties. I have
the honor to request that the chief quartermaster of the corps be directed to supply
10,000 feet of rope for mantlets. The cannoneers are, in many of the batteries, very
much exposed to the fire of the enemy's sharpshooters and the engineer department
declines to issue rope.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R.H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant Colonel ,Assistant Inspector-General and Chief of Artillery

SPECIAL ORDERS,} HDQRS. LIGHT ARTILLERY BRIGADE, TENTH ARMY CORPS,
Numbers 29.} Before Petersburg, Va., September 23, 1864.

III. The following changes of artillery on the line of intrenchments will take
place immediately after dark this evening: Captain Lee's battery of 10-pounder
Parrotts-two into the new redoubts near and on the left of the present position
of the battery, one to the small redan on the right of the Petersburg and City
Point Railroad, and one into the new redoubt on the left of the railroad.
Captain Riggs' battery of light 12-pounders-three into the new redoubt first
mentioned above, one to the small redan on the right of the Petersburg and City
Point Railroad, and two into the new redoubt on the left of the railroad.
Lieutenant Smith, First Connecticut Battery, acting assistant
inspector-general, will point out the places for the guns and give such other
directions as may be necessary to carry out this order.

By order of Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson, chief of artillery:
O. S. DEWEY,
First Lieutenant , 33rd New York Battery, Actg. Asst. Adjt. General

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
September 24, 1864.

Captain JOHN N. CRAIG,
Asst. Adjt. General , Artillery Hdqrs., Army of the Potomac:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report no change in the enemy's lines in my front
observed or reported during the past twenty-four hours. In compliance with
order of Major-General Meade a salute of 100 shotted guns was fired at daylight
from the batteries on the Second Corps front, apparently doing some damage to
the enemy's works, but eliciting no reply.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. M. EDGELL,
Captain, Commanding.

CIRCULAR.] HDQRS. ARTILLERY Brigadier , SECOND ARMY CORPS,
September 24, 1864.

The commanding officers of the following-named batteries will have their
commands harnessed and hitched in readiness to move at once: F, First
Pennsylvania Artillery; K, Fourth U. S. Artillery; A and B, First Rhode Island
Artillery; Twelfth New York Independent Battery; G, First New York Artillery; C
and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery; First New Hampshire Battery; Tenth Massachusetts
Battery.

By command of Captain F. M. EDGELL:
U. D. EDDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,
September 26, 1864.

Captain EDGELL,
Acting Chief of Artillery, Second Corps:

CAPTAIN: Major-General Hancock directs me to say that he deems it necessary for
the security of his line, and to prevent any confusion, that all orders
affecting the position of the field guns should come through him. He directs,
therefore, that you give an order to each battery (field) commander now on the
line under his command to change position or withdraw from the line only when
directed to do so by orders from these headquarters.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
C. H. MORGAN,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff.
(Copy furnished Brigadier-General Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac.)

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
September 26, 1864.

Captain JOHN N. CRAIG,
Asst. Adjt. General , Artillery Hdqrs., Army of the Potomac:

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report no changes in the enemy's lines observed or
reported during the past twenty-four hours. In compliance with orders the
following changes in the position if the light batteries were made last night:
Burton's battery was withdrawn from the works on the right of the plank road
and posted as follows: Two pieces in Fort McGilvery and two in Battery C; one
piece of Parsons's battery withdrawn from Fort Meiked and posted in Battery 18,
White's battery withdrawn from Battery 16 and posted, two pieces in fort
Haskell and two in Battery 11; two pieces of Ricketts' battery from Battery 11
to Fort Stedman; two pieces of McKnight battery from Battery 8 to Battery 9;
one piece of Roder's battery from Battery 8 to Fort McGilvery.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
F. M. EDGELL, Captain, Commanding.

Report of Bvt.Major General George J. Stannard, U.S. Artillery,
commanding First Division, of operations September 29-30.

SAINT ALBANS, VT., April 8,1865.
Brigadier General L. THOMAS,
Adjutant-General, U.S. Army, Washington, D.C.:

SIR:Not having had the opportunity of seeing the report of the major-general
commanding the Army of the James of the operations of my division in the
battles of September 29 and 30,1864, until a short time since, I deem it but
justice to my then command that this, my report, should be placed on file at
your office, and I have the honor to ask that it may be so disposed of.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. J. STANNARD,
Brevet Major-General of Volunteers.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 29, 1864-4 p. m.

Major-General ORD,
Old Headquarters Eighteenth Corps:

Spring Hill fort was counted upon to defend pontoon bridge; this being now
removed to Broadway, receives no protection from it. There are three large
companies in Fort Converse, say at least 300 men besides my company. There are
only 100 men to defend the pontoon brigade, to protect my siege depot, and to
load my train if ordered in. The enemy are just reported as massing in rear of
the line on Weldon railroad. In view of these facts I requested the services of
my company where it seemed to me they would be most useful. Unless I am
responsible for the defense of the landing I do not press it.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS,
September 29, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT:

COLONEL: General Ord has just come in wounded, and thinks that the company you
desire should not at present be moved from Battery Converse.

By order of J. H. Potter, colonel, commanding line of defense:

[CHAS. A.] CARLETON,
Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS,
September 29, 1964.

Colonel ABBOT:

I suggested to Colonel Potter, who commands this line, and is apprehensive of
an attack, that he could get assistance from Fort Converse, if needed, but of
course he cannot since the pontoon bridge has been removed. In view of this, I
think your arrangement is a good one.

E. O. C. ORD,
Major-General.

CITY POINT, September 29, 1864-8.15 p. m.
(Received 9 p. m.)

Colonel ABBOT:

General Ord captured some heavy guns to-day, and two columbians and one
100-pounder are still in the works, but orders have been given to destroy them
if we have to fall back. The general says, if you have facilities for moving
such guns, he wishes you to send and take them away. They are about three
miles, good road, from Aiken's Landing. You can take your party there at once
and commence. Please reply.

O. E. BABCOCK,
Lieutenant-Colonel and Aide-de-camp.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 29, 1864-9.10 p. m.

Lieutenant-Colonel BABCOCK,
Headquarters of General Grant, City Point:

I and already started two sling carts for the guns. Will bring them to Aiken's
Landing as soon as possible and embark them there at leisure, ewing covered by
the gun-boats.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., September 29, 1864-9 p. m.

Major GEORGE B. COOK,
Chief of Artillery, Headquarters Eighteenth Corps:

You will have the two columbiads and the 100-pounder brought to Aiken's Landing
as soon as possible. Lieutenant Gillett will see personally that it is done.
He will take part of Company C, if necessary. Communicate these orders to him.
They are form Lieutenant-General Grant. You should have reported the facts and left
me to issue orders. I could have sent three sling carts as well as two. Have the guns left
under fire of our gun-boats, and I will send for them by barge. If there are other guns
too heavy to cross the pontoon bridge make the same disposition of them. Acknowledge
receipt of this.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

DUTCH GAP, VA., September 29, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the enemy have fired quite regularly
during the day, doing no damage. Concluded it was policy not of expend much
ammunition on them, as no one was at work in the canal. This afternoon they
opened with their light pieces, apparently at the signal tower. I returned
their fire promptly. The Howlett house battery sent a few shell in the same
direction. The guns in Sawyer battery were engaged on that point.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

HDQRS. LIGHT ARTILLERY Brigadier , TENTH ARMY CORPS,
In the Field, Va., October 8, 1864.

SIR:I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the
Artillery Brigade of this corps during the action, the attack and repulse of
the enemy on the right of the corps, on the 7th instant:

At about 8 a.m. the enemy were seen advancing against the right flank (Terry's
division) of the corps, near where Light Battery D, First U.S. Artillery, was
posted. I immediately opened fire with this battery (range about 1,800 yards),
and the enemy soon covered himself in the timber still farther to the right. I
continued to shell the timber, and when he again partly emerged from it drove
him in. About 9 a.m. our pickets were driven in about 1,000 yards, to where the
rebel infantry were first seen, and the enemy opened on the First Brigade of
the First Division with a battery of six light 12-pounders, and in a minute or
two afterward with his six rifle guns. Anticipating such a movement, and
fearing that he would also attack with his infantry from the same point, I had
placed in position to reply two batteries-Lieutenant Myrick's (E, Third United
States) and Captain James' (C, Third Rhode Island)-with two Requa guns,
commanded by Lieutenant Truax, Sixteenth New York Artillery. The fire was
delivered slowly and efficiently, and kept, as I have since learned, Hoke's
division of rebel infantry from moving forward to assist the assault of the
enemy, about to commence still farther to our right.
Perceiving after awhile that the enemy was preparing to deliver his great
onset on General Terry's division, I changed the position of three guns of the
Fifth New Jersey Battery, which were in embrasure on the center of the line
of entrenchments, and wheeling them around rapidly placed them in position
to fire over the parapet, near the right of Lieutenant Myrick's battery, so as to
bring a heavy concentrated fire on the enemy's artillery, with a view to the
destruction of his guns, or to make him change their position before his infantry
should be ordered to charge, and thus leave me at liberty to turn all my guns on
his advancing force, a measure, by the way, I had decided to have recourse to in
any case. I am happy to say that his artillery fire was soon silenced, and that all
the guns that could be brought to bear on his infantry were used with good effect.
About this time the First Division (Terry's) repulsed him easily and bloodily.
During the action 1,296 rounds of ammunition were fired.

The casualties were as follows: Second Lieutenant R.V. King, Fourth New Jersey
Battery, acting aide-de-camp, on my staff, was slightly wounded by a piece of
shell in the left shoulder. Battery D, First U.S. Artillery, 1 private killed
and 1 corporal and 3 privates severely wounded. Battery E, Third U.S.
Artillery, 3 privates killed, 1 sergeant and 4 privates severely wounded, and 4
privates slightly wounded. Battery C, Third Rhode Island Artillery, 2 privates
severely and 1 private slightly wounded. Recapitulation: 4 privates killed, and
1 officer and 16 enlisted men wounded. Nominal lists of killed and wounded will
be furnished to-day.

The number of killed and wounded horses are as follows: Battery D, First U.S.
Artillery, 10 horses killed; Battery E, Third U.S. Artillery, 17 horses killed;
Battery C, Third Rhode Island Artillery, 3 horses killed and 2 wounded; Fourth
New Jersey Battery, 3 horses killed and 3 wounded; Requa gun section, 1 horse
killed and 1 wounded. The large number of killed and wounded horses in the
Artillery Brigade can be accounted for by the fact that after the first five or
six shots were fired by our artillery all of the fire from the enemy's
batteries was directed on my guns and horses. I am glad that it was so.

It is my duty to state that all the officers and enlisted men engaged performed
their duty efficiently and courageously. I, however, beg leave to present the
names of the following as being worthy of especial commendation:

Lieutenant John R. Myrick, Third U.S. Artillery, who fought his battery (and
particularly one section of it, which lost nearly all its men and horses killed
and wounded) in a manner to excite my admiration and draw forth on the spot my
personal thanks. In the same battery Fist Sergt. G.F. Sessions, Corpl. F.
Ringol, and Private Clark G. Shaw especially distinguished themselves by
bravery and coolness. Bugler Daniel Urmey had charged of the caissons of the
battery and brought up ammunition under a heavy fire in a manner that would
have done credit to a commissioned officer. First Sergt. John F. Wyman, Battery
C, Third Rhode Island Artillery, is recommended by his battery commander as
worthy of particular mention in this report. Lieutenants Smith and King, acting
assistant inspector-general and aide-de-camp, respectively, on my staff,
behaved very gallantly and meritoriously during the engagement.

During the hottest part of the action, and when Lieutenant Myrick's battery was
so short-handed from casualties as to be unable to fire rapidly enough, the
following-named brave soldiers of Company E, Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers,
left secure places behind the line of entrenchments, unloaded ammunition for the
guns, and performed other important services greatly to their credit and deserving
of mention in general orders: Privates Charles W. Ware and Augustus Ingleman.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R.H. JACKSON,
Lieutenant Colonel , Asst.Insp.General , Chief of Arty., 10th A.C., Commanding

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 10,1864.

Major H.H. BINGHAM,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

I have the honor to report that the enemy were observed yesterday working on
the fort near the deep railroad cut. The batteries at Fort Morton opened on
them occasionally, forcing them to cease. About 12 p.m. last night the enemy
fired a few shots from their artillery at our picket-line, to which our
batteries replied. No casualties.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNumbers G. HAZARD,
Major, Commanding.
(Copy to Captain John N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general, artillery
headquarters, Army of the Potomac.)

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 10,1864.

Brigadier General S. WILLIAMS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac:

GENERAL:I have the honor to request that application be made for Allen's
battery (H), First Rhode Island, now in camp near Washington, to be ordered to
this army to relieve Brown's battery (A and B), First Rhode Island, that the
latter may be sent to Washington to be reorganized and recruited. I am informed
by Major J.A. Tomkins, First Rhode Island Artillery,now recruiting in
Providence, that if these batteries were stationed in Washington he believes
they could be filled up in a comparatively short time. The united batteries have
one officer and seventy-nine men present. If the change is made they can probably
be filled up and instructed in the course of the fall and winter.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

[Indorsement.]
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 11,1864.

Respectfully forwarded to headquarters Armies of the United States, with the
request that the order asked for by General Hunt, chief of artillery, may be issued.

GEO. G. MEADE,
Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, OFFICE CHIEF OF ARTILLERY,
October 19, 1864.

ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL,
Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps:

SIR: I have the honor to report that by Special Orders, Nos. 97 and 104, of
August 4 and 12, 1864, 181 enlisted men of the Fifth Maryland Volunteers were
assigned to batteries of the corps in the following proportions: Battery L,
Fourth U. S. Artillery, 31 privates; Battery B, First U. S. Artillery, 65
privates; Battery F, Fifth U. S. Artillery, 40 privates; Battery F, First Rhode
Island Artillery, 20 privates; Sixteenth New York Battery, 25 privates. I am of
opinion that it would be highly prejudicial to the interests of the service to
return these men from the batteries with which they are now serving, except in
the case of those assigned to the Sixteenth New York Battery. The batteries,
except the one just referred to, are short of men, and constant requisitions
are made on me by battery commanders for men to preserve their efficiency. The
Sixteenth New York Battery has now men enough of its own for a four-gun
battery. As the detachment of the Fifth Maryland serving with it have by this
time become good artillerists, I respectfully suggest that they be assigned to
Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, which is losing men fast by discharges. I
have the honor to state that, so far as I can learn, the men attached to the
batteries are, with very few exceptions, satisfied with their condition.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. PIPER,
Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL DIVISION, ARMY OF THE JAMES,
DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., GENERAL ORDERS, Numbers 2.}
In the Field, Va., October 20, 1864.

Major George B. Cook, First Connecticut Artillery, is announced as chief of
artillery on the staff of the brigadier-general commanding, and will be obeyed
and respected accordingly. Commanding officers of all batteries within the
limits of this command will report at once to Major Cook, chief of artillery,
at these headquarters.

By order of Brigadier-General Graham:
R. DALE BENSON,
Aide-de-Camp and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

ORDNANCE OFFICE, October 22, 1864.

Honorable E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:

SIR: The following report of the principal operations of the Ordnance
Department during the past year is respectfully submitted. To that report I
avail myself of the occasion to add such remarks and recommendations respecting
the future service of the department as the public interest, in my judgment,
calls for.

The ordnance, arms, and other ordnance supplies which this department has
procured by fabrication and purchase and which it has supplied to the troops
during the past fiscal year, as also those at the arsenals and ordnance depots,
are shown in detail by the accompanying statements. From these it will be seen
that the fabrications and purchases during the year include the following quantities
and kinds of principal articles:

Field cannon of different calibers ......................................................... 957

Siege cannon of different calibers .........................................................355

Sea-coast and garrison of different calibers ..........................................448

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for field guns ..............1,028,427

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for siege guns ............... 218,157

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for seacoast forts .......... 427,660

Artillery carriages for field service .........................................................824

Artillery carriages for siege service ........................................................276

Horse equipments .........................................................................173,463

Artillery harness for two horses ..........................................................3,504

Gunpowder ................................pounds....................................8,409,400

Ammunition for artillery .................rounds......................................823,314

Artillery carriages for sea-coast forts.....................................................629

Mortar beds ......................................................................................... 49

Caissons, traveling forges, and battery wagons..................................... 583

Friction-primers for cannon ........................................................ 2,376,643

The principal ordnance supplies which have been furnished for the military
service during the past fiscal year are as follows, viz:

Field cannon of different calibers .........................................................568

Siege cannon of different calibers ........................................................258

Sea-coast cannon of different calibers .................................................315

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for field guns..............1,224,618

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for siege guns................259,753

Cannon-balls, shells, and other projectiles for sea-coast forts ........429,382

Artillery carriages for field service .......................................................565

Artillery carriages for siege service ......................................................186

Artillery carriages for sea-coast forts ...................................................561

Horse equipments ..........................sets........................................152,067

Artillery harness for two horses ........................................................2,243

Gunpowder.................................pounds...................................7,544,044

Mortar beds ........................................................................................137

Caissons, traveling forges, and battery wagons......................................347

Ammunition for artillery .................rounds.....................................464,549

Friction-primers for cannon .......................................................2,130,430

The heavy gun of 20-inch caliber, for sea-coast fortifications, has been
successfully cast and finished, and a suitable carriage to mount it has been
prepared. It is now ready for experimental trials at Fort Hamilton, in New York
Harbor, and the proper targets and other preparations for testing its
efficiency against the strongest was vessels, and ascertaining the best manner
of handling it in service, have bene ordered to be made. The results of these
trials will demonstrate whether the expectations which theory warrants, of the
destructive effects of this gun and its value for defensive works covering
narrow passes, are realized, and whether such guns should be multiplied; and if
so, to what extent. If they should establish the affirmative of this question,
the cost of their trials will be far outweighed by the advantages obtained from them;
if otherwise, the loss will be insignificant in itself, and will probably be a gain eventually,
by preventing future experiments in the same line, and settling the question of the largest
effective caliber for sea-coast cannon.

Statement of ordnance, arms, ammunition, and other ordnance stores, procured
and supplies to the Army during the year ending June 30, 1864; and the quantity
remaining on hand June 30, 1864.

Numbers 1.-CANNON AND MORTARS.

................................................... Field guns.....Siege guns.....Sea-coast guns & mortars....Total.

On hand June30,1863......................484................249..........................679...................1,412

Purchased since................................959.................355..........................448..................1,762

Total..............................................1,443................604 .......................1,127..................3,174

Issued year ending June30,1864........568................258...........................315 .................1,141

Remaining on hand June30,1864........875...............346...........................812 ................ 2,033

Numbers 2.-CANNON-BALLS, SHELLS, AND OTHER PROJECTILES.

...................................................For field guns.... For siege guns... For seacoast guns & mortars.......Total.

On hand June30,1863.....................474,515............ 234,893 .....................471,341.................1,180,749

Purchased since............................1,028,427............218,157......................427,660..................1,674,244

Total............................................1,502,942 ............453,050......................899,001.................2,854,993

Issued ending June30,1864...........1,224,618............259,753.......................429,382.................1,913,753

Remaining on hand June30,1864.....278,324.............193,297......................469,619.....................941,240

Numbers 3.-ARTILLERY CARRIAGES.

............................................Field.....Siege.....Seacoast.... Mortar beds.....Caissons.....Trav.forges....Batt.wagons

On hand June 30, 1863.........359 ..... 44 ..........722...............230................360 .............92 ...................65

Purchased since.....................571 ......68...........191 ............450 ...............................................................

Fabricated during year...........253 .....208 ........ 438.................49..................52 .............48....................33

Total .................................1,320...1,351..........279................862................140.............98...................183

Issued ending June30,1864...565 .....186...........561...............137.................246............70.....................31

Remaining June30,1864....... 618......134...........790 ..............142................ 616............70 ....................67

Numbers 6. ARTILLERY AMMUNITION.

.................................................... Field guns..........Siege guns.........Sea-coast guns & mortars.........Total.

On hand June 30, 1863 ..................387,279 .............73,434 ......................31,791 .....................492,504

Purchased since............................... 44,329 .................................................................................44,329

Fabricated since ...........................720,526 ...............54,922 .................... 3,537 ......................778,985

Total ..........................................1,152,134...............128,356 ................... 35,328 ..................1,315,818

Issued year ending June 30,1864....358,679 ................75,347.....................30,523......................464,549

Remaining on hand June30,1864....793,455.................53,009 ...................... 4,805 ................... 851,269

A. B. DYER,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Ordnance.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, October 24,1864.

Major HAZARD,
Chief of Artillery, Second Corps:

It is understood that Major Michler expects to throw up a work near the Avery
house to take the place of No.17. If this is done Pratt's guns will probably be
placed in it, or else the battery can be left where it is if General Hancock
will inclose it and furnish a garrison. If neither of thee things is done, the
guns should go into Fort Morton. I will see if Colonel Abbot can spare you two
8-inch howitzers for Fort Sedgwick.

HENRY J.HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

HDQRS.ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS, October 24,1864.

Major SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that last night a section of the Eleventh New
York Battery was moved out of Battery No.6 and into Fort McGilvery. A section
of the Sixth Maine Battery moved from Fort McGilvery into Battery NO.9,
relieving the Twelfth New York Battery, which moved into Fort Haskell,
relieving four guns of Batteries C and I, Fifth U.S.Artillery, which went into
part near the Beatty house. One section of Batteries C and I, Fifth U.S.
Artillery, was relieved in Fort Davis by a section of the Third New York,
Captain Harn, and went into part with the rest of the battery. Nothing else of
importance occurred during the past twenty-four hours.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNO.G.HAZARD,
Major,Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS NINTH ARMY CORPS, October 24,1864.

Colonel J.C.TIDBALL,
Chief of Artillery:

COLONEL: The general commanding directs that in the event of a movement being
ordered you be prepared to carry out the following instructions:

1. You will designate the batteries to remain to hold the redoubts and inclosed
works from Fort Fisher to Fort Cummings, with amount of ammunition previously
prescribed and six days' rations (twenty-four guns to hold the works).

2. The remaining artillery will be massed at a convenient point for movement
out of view of the enemy.

3. The artillery that move will take 250 rounds of ammunition, using the
caissons of the guns in the inclosed works instead of wagons, the men to be
supplied with three days' full rations in haversacks and three days' full
rations in haversack and three days' bread and small rations in knapsacks.
Three days' beef to be driven.

4. Horses and caissons belonging to artillery in inclosed works, not taken with
the troops, will be moved inside the intrenchments covering City Point, to be
parked with train of Artillery Reserve.

5. You will designate the number of forges, battery wagons, &c., to accompany
batteries with the troops; surplus to join Artillery Reserve train under charge
of the officers to be detailed charge of horses, &c., of the guns in the
redoubts.

The following modifications of the above may be made:

(1) Perhaps a park may be made of the reserve caissons near the left of our
present line, and the horses of your batteries in the inclosed works may also
be kept near the left so as to bring up the batteries if needed.

(2) A change in the amount of ammunition to be carried may be made, and some
wagons, perhaps, may be parked near the left to bring up rations.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
P.M.LYDIG,
Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, October 24,1864.

Colonel ABBOT, Broadway Landing:

General Meade has in view the removal of the bridge below General Benham's
lines, but will send General B. to see about a tete-de-pont at your place.
General M.wishes you to place ten siege pieces at General Benham's disposal for
his lines. The kind of pieces you can arrange with him. It would be well for
you to put at least 150 rounds per gun in each fort, so as to be secure against
the contingency of the supply being interrupted, and to make your arrangement
for withdrawing such mortars on the lines as will not be safe if the forts only
should remain occupied. I think the 8-inch mortars near forts like those at Hare
house, for example, will be perfectly safe.

HENRY J.HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 25,1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

Pratt's battery of four 4 1/2-inch guns in No.17 and the four 8-inch mortars in
No.20 are the only ones requiring movement. These should be attended to. Of
course you will send me orders when you wish me to move them. I will attend to
the supply of ammunition. How is it about rations? I supply my me and would like
notice accordingly.

HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, October 24,1864.

Colonel ABBOT, Broadway Landing:

The garrison should have ten days' rations. I will give you notice in time to
supply them and to withdrawn your mortars in No.20. If no new work is put up
near the Avery house and No.17 is not inclosed and furnished with a garrison,
the guns must be withdrawn and sent to Morton. Major Hazard wants a section of
them at Fort Davis.
Major H, also asks for two 8-inch howitzers for Fort Sedgwick, vice a field
battery (less than I have recommended for that work), but which cannot be
spared. Can you given him them with the necessary amount of ammunition? If you
do, will you be able to furnish men to serve them?

HENRY J.HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24,1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT, Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

If it be necessary to put a section of 4 1/2-inch guns in Fort Davis I would
suggest to put one of Pratt's there, and the other with two mortars for ditch
service in Fort Sedgwick instead of the siege howitzers. It would be very hard
to serve the latter there, because mantlets could hardly be used from their
extreme shortness. By the above arrange ment no extra men would be necessary.
The plan of putting heavy guns in these batteries will entail great difficulty
of supplying ammunition, but if necessary it can, of course, be done.

HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24,1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I have seen General Benham. He has no heavy artillery soldiers. I have none not
in use. Please, therefore, assign two good companies to my command to serve the
ten guns. I would like some of the Fourth New York if they can be had.

HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 24,1864.

Lieutenant MICHIE,
Chief Engineer, Headquarters Army of the James:

You will greatly oblige me if you will request General Butler to allow me to
move the mortars from Dutch Gap to Fort Brady, where they will be more
efficient by far, and the light guns to this landing, where a new fort is to be
put up. They do no service at the gap which a section of light artillery could
not better perform.

HENRY L.ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, October 24,1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Inclosed please find a dispatch from Lieutenant Michie to me. It is referred
for your action:

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA,
October 24,1864-7.50 p.m.

Colonel PIPER:

Will you order to 8-inch mortars now at Dutch Gap to be removed to fort Brady
on Cox's Hill. They will do more execution there than where they at present,
and it will not divide the detachment that serves both. The light guns at the
Gap can be sent back to Colonel Abbot and their place supplied by the 4
1/2-inch rifles now at Fort Brady, if necessary. I think, however, it is a
useless waste of ammunition to fire anything at the rebel mortar batteries.

P.S.MICHIE,
Lieutenant,U.S.Engineers.
A.PIPER,
Colonel Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.

FORT BRADY, VA., October 24,1864.

Colonel H.L.ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that not a shot was fired by the enemy at
the Gap to-day until after 1 a.m., when they opened suddenly and fired very
rapidly for an hour and a half or more. Hoy (a splendid soldier) was killed
about noon. Most of their shell struck in and around my right mortar battery.
This afternoon they commenced in the same hurried manner, doing no damage.
Returned their fire with the mortars and the 4.5-inch gun. Earnestly request to
have the 4.5-inch guns exchanged for the 30-pounder Parrotts, if the latter
should ever be removed from their present position; the ammunition is so much
surer. Handed in my report* to General Butler, and he seemed very much pleased
with the whole affair; forwarded it to General Grant himself.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H.H.PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

Report of Lieutenant Wallace F. Randolph, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
Acting Aide-de-Camp, Artillery Brigade, of operations October 27.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
October 29, 1864.

SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report:

On the morning of the 27th Lee's and Stitt's batteries of the Artillery
Brigade, Eighteenth Corps, marched with the column of infantry under command of
Major-General Weitzel. After proceeding as far as Fair Oaks the enemy's works
were discovered to be about two miles beyond. At about 2 p.m., by direction of
the major-general commanding, Stitt's battery (A), First Pennsylvania
Artillery, was placed in position with one section on each side of the
Williamsburg road and about 850 yards distant from the enemy's line, for the
purpose of covering the advance of our troops. The battery kept up a rapid and
well-directed fire upon the enemy, firing in all 523 rounds. Three of the guns
were disabled by the breaking of the understraps, occasioned either by the
severity of the recoil or the inferior quality of the iron used. The loss in
Stitt's battery was 1 man killed and 5 wounded and 7 horses killed. Lee's
battery (Sixteenth New York Independent) was then placed in position, slightly
in rear of the ground occupied by Stitt's battery and on the right of the
Williamsburg road, but was not engaged, and was shortly after withdrawn.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
WALLACE F. RANDOLPH,
First Lieutenant Fifth Artillery, Acting Aide-de-Camp.
Lieutenant F. W. PAUL,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Artillery Brigade.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
October 30, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Pratt's battery can be moved to Numbers 17 and transferred to the new work as
soon as the latter is finished. The 8-inch mortars can also be transferred from
near Fort Sedgwick to Numbers 20. Can the work be done to-night?

H. J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., October 30, 1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I will send transportation to move the guns and mortars from Fort Sedgwick back
to Numbers 17 and Numbers 20 to-night.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

FORT BRADY, VA., October 30, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I have been in and around the canal a
good portion of the day. Very strangely, there has been less shelling and more
casualties than for several days previous; 1 man killed and 2 wounded, and 2
horses killed outright. Major Ludlow acknowledges, however that the 4.5-inch
gun does the business effectually. Received the new projectile; shall make a
careful report of its efficacy. General Butler sent me to-day forty-nine boxes
and six barrels, the boxes containing 100-pounder shell and the barrels
incendiary composition. Am directed to store them in magazine until further
orders. Will send you a copy of my report to him.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

Report of Brigadier General Henry J. Hunt, U.S. Army, Chief of
Artillery, Army of the Potomac, including operations June 16-October 31.

ARTILLERY HEADQUARTERS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
October 31,1864.

GENERAL:
June 16, these headquarters crossed the James and arrived in front of
Petersburg.

June 17, soon after General Burnside had driven the enemy from his line north
of the Avery house, I examined the position and placed batteries to hold them,
and to prepare the farther advance of the Ninth Corps; I also gave the
necessary instructions to close the gorges of the captured redoubts and place
them in condition to be used against the enemy.

June 18, I proceeded by direction of Major-General Meade to the extreme right,
where it was reported the enemy's batteries across the Appomattox were delaying
General Martindale's movements, and placed batteries of the Sixth Corps
to prepare and follow up the contemplated attack by General Martindale.
I took part in the advance, and immediately on the enemy's being driven
from his position brought up batteries to secure our possession of the position taken.
I also planted batteries on the bank of the river near the Page
house, in the position which commanded the railroad bridge
crossing over the Appomattox at Petersburg. This position, now forming the
extreme right of our lines, has been since greatly strengthened, and
constitutes a strong battery with an armament of three siege guns and four
8-inch mortars. I have thus far reported such operations of the artillery
serving with the corps, to which I beg leave respectfully to refer for the
operations of their batteries. They have doubtless rendered reports to the
generals with whom they respectively served. I have received but two such
reports, those of Colonels Tidball and Wainwright, commanding the artillery of
the Second and Fifth Corps respectively. In the battle of the Wilderness, and
indeed in the greater portion of the battles of this campaign, the ground and
the nature of the operations have been unfavorable to the use of field
artillery, yet hardly a day has passed from the crossing the Rapidan that one
or more batteries have not been engaged. On some occasions, as on the Po, and
at Spotsylvania Court-House, many batteries have been called into requisition,
and always officers and men have performed the duties devolved upon them with
gallantry and skill. The excellent condition in which the batteries have been
kept, the promptitude with which their supplies, on which so much depended,
were furnished under unusually unfavorable circumstances, and the efficient
condition which the batteries have maintained down to the present time, give
proof of the excellence of the battery officers, and of the system of
organization adopted for the arm.

SIEGE TRAIN.

On the 16th of April, in obedience to the instructions of the major-general
commanding, I submitted a project for the organization of a siege train, to
consist as a minimum of forty siege guns, ten 10-inch, twenty 8-inch and twenty
Coehorn mortars, recommending that the preparation of the train be intrusted to
Colonel H.L. Abbot, First Connecticut Artillery. This project (a copy of which
is appended, marked A) was approved and Colonel Abbot proceeded at once to the
organization of the train, to which by subsequent orders were added six
100-pounder Parrotts and ten 8-inch siege howitzers. Colonel Abbot was ordered
to the James River in advance of this army and served under the orders of
Major-General Butler, commanding the Army of the James in its operations near
Richmond, and on the arrival of this army before Petersburg reported to me. The
siege train has since been employed in the siege operations of both armies. For
a detailed report of its organization, labors and services, I respectfully
refer to the excellent reports of Colonel Abbot, appended and marked I and K.*

June 27 I was placed by Lieutenant-General Grant in charge of all siege
operations against Petersburg south of the Appomattox (see Special Orders,
No.42, headquarters Armies of the United States, appended and marked B). This
order brought the artillery operations in front of the Eighteenth Corps,
extending from the Appomattox to near the Hare house, as well as those of this
army, under my direction. Colonel Burton, Fifth U.S. Artillery, was assigned
temporarily to the Eighteenth Corps, and in addition to the charge of the siege batteries
on that front took that of the batteries of the corps, the artillery of which he reorganized. My
aide-de-camp, Lieutenant C.T. Bissell, Fifth Michigan Infantry, was assigned
to the personal staff of Colonel Burton.

June 29, having received orders from Major-General Meade to furnish to
Major-General Burnside the powder, &c., required for a mine General Burnside
was running under one of the enemy's works, I procured the necessary material
and selected the positions for the guns to cover the operations. As rapidly as
the works could be prepared the guns were placed in position. Those not needed
at the time were held ready to be so placed so soon as the necessity should
arise.

July 6 to 9, the Sixth Corps, ordered to Washington, left its trains and six
batteries at City Point, whence they were soon after ordered to the Artillery
Reserve and placed in position on the lines. The batteries thus left were:
Parsons' (A), First New Jersey, four 3-inch; Rhodes' (E), First Rhode Island,
four Napoleon; Dorsey's (H), First Ohio, four 3-inch; Brinckle's (E), Fifth
United States, four Napoleons; White's, Fourth Maine, four 3-inch; McLain's,
Third New York, four Napoleons.

July 3, received orders from Major-General Meade to examine, with Major Duane,
chief engineer, the enemy's works in front of Petersburg to ascertain whether
offensive operations at any point were practicable

July 6, after a careful examination of the enemy's position, a joint report
from the chief engineer and myself was made, pronouncing an assault
impracticable and recommending regular approaches

On the 9th of July orders were given from general headquarters to commence
operations by regular approaches against Petersburg
In pursuance of these instructions I designated the positions of the batteries
to be constructed for the operations then ordered. The positions were selected
in accordance with a plan submitted by Major Duane and myself on the 10th, and
approved and ordered to be executed on the 11th of July (Appendix F,G). The
direct object of these proposed operations was the possession of the crest of
the ridge behind the enemy's line which dominates Petersburg and the possession
of which it was believed would involve the fate of the town.

The operations in view were: First, to destroy the obstructions to an assault
on the enemy's line, such as abatis, palisades, 7c. Second, to silence his guns
and especially those bearing on the point of assault. Third, to sweep the
ground over which his troops must pass to attack our assaulting columns and to
hold his troops in check and cover the retreat should the assault fail. To
accomplish the first object the batteries were so placed as to bring all the
abatis, palisades, &c., under an artillery fire, which could reach them either
by a direct slant or enfilade fire, for this field guns were sufficient. The
second purpose required that the batteries should be so placed as to give so
far as possible a direct fire upon the enemy's embrasures, and especially upon
those which flanked the point of attack. These embrasures were placed
principally on the face and flank of the enemy's redoubt and works which formed
the salient in front of the Fifth Corps, and in sunken batteries near this
redoubt. For this purpose siege guns were best and field, was so arranged that
all the visible ground between the enemy's line and the crest behind it should
be swept by as many of the guns as a compliance with the first two conditions
would permit.

From the position of the batteries of the enemy which flanked the mine work, it
was evident that there would be great difficulty in bringing a direct fire of
sufficient power to silence them so promptly as to protect our assaulting
columns. The redoubt is well placed, in a commanding position, and well
provided with traverses. It was, therefore, considered as indispensable that we
should bring, in addition to the horizontal,a powerful vertical fire to bear
upon the redoubt and sunken batteries near it. All the siege mortars remaining
in the train (viz, ten 10-inch and six 8-inch) were, therefore, set apart for
this service. The Coehorns were distributed along the line, so that all points
of the enemy's position should be more or less under a vertical fire. The
location of the different batteries will be seen by a reference to the drawing
submitted herewith.* They were constructed by details from the different corps
under the general direction of Major Duane, chief engineer.

On June 30 Brooker's battery (B), First Connecticut, six 4 1/2-inch siege guns,
was placed in Battery No.19, which commands the enemy's crest, behind the mine.

July 6, for 8-inch mortars were placed in Battery No.29. They were served by a
platoon of Battery A, First Connecticut, Captain Gillett.

July 8, two 8-inch mortars and July 9 four Coehorns were placed in battery near
the Hare house, under command of Lieutenant Sargeant, Battery G.

July 14, the Fourth New York Artillery, Lieutenant-Colonel Allcock commanding,
reported for duty with the siege train.

July 25, Pratt's battery (M), First Connecticut, six 4 1/2-inch siege guns, was
placed in position in Battery No.24. A few field batteries were also in
position on the line.

July 28, orders were given to prepare for an assault, and on that night ten
10-inch mortars and six 8-inch were placed in position, the 10-inch in Battery
No.8, the 8-inch in Battery No.9; the first served by Captain Pierce's battery
(C), First Connecticut, the latter by part of Battery A, Lieutenant Patterson.

On the night of the 29th Captain Brown's battery (H), First Connecticut,+ six 4
1/2-inch siege guns, Battery No.4, and the field batteries of the Fifth and
Eighteenth Corps, not heretofore on the lines, were placed in position.

On the 28th I visited the different batteries and gave detailed instructions
for the employment of each gun under the different probable circumstances that
might arise. These orders were impressed on the battery officers by their
commanders, and on the morning of the 29th circular instructions were furnished
to all artillery commanders (see Appendix H) for their government. The
following pieces were placed in battery in front of the Fifth and Ninth Corps:
ten 10-inch mortars, ten 8-inch mortars, 17 Coehorn mortars, 18 siege guns, 86
field guns; total, 141; and near the Hare house, to bear upon the enemy's
batteries and lines on the right of Burnside's corps, six 8-inch mortars, 11
Coehorns, 6 field guns; total, 23. The total number of guns and mortars was,
therefore, 110 guns and 54 mortars.

On the morning of the 30th, as soon as the mine exploded, our fire opened along
the whole line. The firing was from each piece slow, deliberate, and careful,
partaking of the nature of target practice, and was very effective, the amount
of fire required being provided for by the large number of pieces brought into
action. The enemy's guns in
front of the Fifth Corps were soon silenced and his fire in front of the Ninth
confined to a battery on the hill behind the mine A (see sketch) and to one gun
from his work B, next south of the mine, which could not be effectually reached
by the guns in front of it, and which was sheltered from the fire of Batteries
Nos. 20 to 24 by the trees in front of the latter, which had not been falled by
the troops as required. This work having been delayed by the Ninth Corps until
the night of the 29th, it was then objected by General Burnside that the noise
of chopping would alarm the enemy, and that it could be done after the mine was
sprung. The battery in which this one gun was placed was expected to be in our
possession within a few minutes after the explosion, but was not taken
possession of by our infantry. The Battery A on the crest behind the mine and
near a place known as the Chimneys, opened from time to time, but was always
silenced by a few rounds from Brooker's battery and the field guns which could
be turned upon it. As a whole the practice was excellent, keeping down the
enemy's fire, destroying the embrasures, especially of the enemy's redoubt and
works at the angle, exploding one of his magazines and several caissons, and
preventing troops passing by the direct line from his right to the point of
attack. At 10 a.m. orders were given for the withdrawal of the troops, which
was covered as far as possible by the artillery. Our works were so well
constructed and the fire of the enemy's batteries so effectually kept down that
the casualties were few. Major Fitzhugh, First New York Artillery, is included
in the list of wounded.

I have to acknowledge my indebtedness in these operations to Colonel H.L.
Abbot, Firt Connecticut Artillery and captain Engineers, U.S. Army, commanding
siege train; Colonel C.S. Wainwright, First New York Artillery, chief of
artillery, Fifth Corps; Lieutenant Colonel J.A. Monroe, First Rhode Island
Artillery, chief of artillery, Ninth Corps; Colonel A. Piper, Tenth New York
Foot Artillery and captain Third U.S. Artillery, chief of artillery, Eighteenth
Corps; and Lieutenant Colonel E.R. Warner, First New York Artillery and first
lieutenant Third U.S. Artillery, inspector of artillery on my staff.

Colonel Abbot was indefatigable in his labors. When the order was received by
him to send the siege guns and material to the lines, it was on board ship at
Broadway Landing, seven miles distant, but the same night he had the sixteen
heavy mortars, with all the ammunition and material in their batteries, ready
for service at the required moment, and Colonel Abbot took immediate command of
the 10-inch mortar battery during the bombardment.

Colonels Wainwright and Piper and Lieutenant-Colonel Monroe were also prompt
and effective in getting their batteries in position and superintending their
respective lines during the action. At 11 p.m. July 30 orders were received by
me to withdraw so much of the siege train as was in front of the Fifth and
Ninth Corps and part of that in front of the Eighteenth and move it to City
Point. The order was telegraphed to Colonel Abbot immediately, and in
thirty-six hours fifty-two heavy siege guns and mortars, with their ammunition,
platforms, equipments, and other material, were secretly and safely withdrawn,
moved by land seven miles to Broadway Landing, and loaded on barges. A few
siege guns and mortars were left on the Eighteenth Corps front to control the
enemy's batteries on the opposite side of the river.

Since July 31 various changes have taken place as necessity required in the
position of the batteries on the lines and in the armament of the works; but no
operations of importance have been undertaken, the batteries being employed
principally to keep down the enemy's fire.

At times, however, by order of corps commanders, they have opened fire on the
town of Petersburg. A number of the works having been inclosed and garrisons
with artillery ordered to be left in them in case the army should move, the
magazines in the forts designated were supplied with ammunition so that each
gun should have 150 rounds, including that in the limbers, which in most cases
were left in the forts. The ammunition for this purpose was taken from the
wagons of the brigade ammunition train, and from those of the artillery park,
the wagons being left empty so as to withdraw the ammunition at the shortest
notice. The caissons of the batteries in the works were thus rendered
disposable to take the place of these empty wagons in the brigade, and so
complete the supply of ammunition for the batteries that should move. When the
army was moved on 26th of October these works had their armaments left in them,
so that the amount of artillery which accompanied the army was hut small.

For the services of the field artillery in the affairs on the Weldon railroad,
19th-22nd August, at Reams' Station on August 25, on Hatcher's Run October
26-28, and in the various operations of the cavalry, I respectfully refer you
to the reports of the commanders of the troops to which the batteries were
attached.

For want of complete returns I am unable to state the losses of the artillery
in killed and wounded. The captures and losses of guns reported are as follows:
Captured, 32 guns; lost, 25 guns; showing an excess of 7 guns captured over the
number lost from May 4 to October 31, 1864.

I have respectfully to call attention to services in this campaign of the
commanding officer of the Artillery Reserve, Colonel H.S. Burton, Fifth U.S.
Artillery; of Colonel J.C. Tidball, Fourth New York Foot Artillery and captain
Second U.S. Artillery; Colonel C.S. Wainwright, First New York Light
Artillery; Colonel C.H. Tompkins, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, chiefs
of artillery of the Second, Fifth, and Sixth Corps,
respectively; of Colonel H.L. Abbot, First Connecticut Foot Artillery and
captain U.S. Engineers, commanding siege train; of Lieutenant Colonel J.A.
Monroe and Major J.G. Hazard and Major J.A. Tomkins, First Rhode Island Light
Artillery; Lieutenant Colonel E.R. Warner and Major R.H. Fitzhugh, First New
York Light Artillery. These officers have always and everywhere discharged the
duties devolving upon them with skill, gallantry, and zeal, and the most of
them have served long and faithfully with this army, have often been
recommended for reward, and have established their claims to the higher rank,
the duties of which they have been performing. Colonel Tidball (distinguished
for his gallantry and former services in the Horse Artillery), Colonels
Tompkins, Wainwright, and Major Hazard have long commanded, and in our
principal battles have fought artillery brigades with gallantry and skill. The
organization, management, and service of the siege train entitle its commander,
Colonel Abbot, to whom its efficiency is due, to promotion. Lieutenant-Colonel
Warner has served as my assistant in the organization of the Artillery Reserve
and of the battle, and as inspector of artillery for this army has proved a
valuable and efficient officer. The services of the other officers named have
been varied and important. Colonel Wainwright and Major Hazard have been
recently brevetted, and I respectfully recommend that the same honor be
conferred upon the others. This acknowledgment of its services is due as much
to the artillery as to the officers who commanded it.

My staff, Captain J.N. Craig, assistant adjutant-general; Lieuts. W.S. Worth,
Eighth [U.S.] Infantry, C.T. Bissell, First Michigan Cavalry, and Carl L.
Berlin, Eighth New York Cavalry, aides-de-camp, have performed their duties
with efficiency and gallantry.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,
HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac.

Report of Captain Henry A. Du Pont, Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
Of operations October 19.

CAMP OF BATTERY B, FIFTH U. S. ARTILLERY,
Near Cedar Creek, Va., October 29, 1864.

CAPTAIN: In the absence of all the officers on duty with Battery B, Fifth U. S.
Artillery, on the morning of the 19th instant, killed or captured by the
enemy in the engagement of that date at Cedar Creek, Va., I respectfully
transmit the following report of the part taken by this battery on that
occasion, in addition to my report of the artillery as a whole:

The battery (six 3-inch rifled ordnance guns) was in position on the extreme
right of the line, behind earth-works, on the crest of a steep ridge to the
left of the pike rising abruptly from the banks of Cedar Creek. Behind this
ridge and parallel to it is a second one, which commands it somewhat; this
was not occupied by troops. In the ravine between these ridges, about 120
yards from the battery, was the camp, with the caissons, horses, harnesses,
battery wagon and forge, and the train. Upon the sudden attack of the enemy
before daylight on the morning of the 19th First Lieutenant Henry F.
Brewerton, Fifth U. S. Artillery, who was in command of the battery, had the
men all ready and on the alert, and immediately ordered the guns to be loaded
with canister; but the enemy not attacking on his front, but some 300 yards
to his left, I ordered him to fire some shots, if possible, toward the point
of attack. He succeeded in getting a few shots in that direction form the two
pieces of his center section. The infantry on the left, then breaking and
abandoning their works (which were at once occupied by the enemy), Lieutenant
Brewerton turned t he two pieces of his left section upon them (now within
the works), and fired at them with canister until they had advanced to within
twenty-five paces of his guns, when he ceased firing and ran the pieces by
hand down the hill to the caissons. The limber he was compelled to leave. The
infantry fell back before he moved the guns, and failed to assist the cannoneers
in getting them down, though asked to do so. Meantime the drivers of the battery
and train at the foot of the hill, with horses unhitched and unharnessed and tied to the
picket-rope at the moment of the attack, stood manfully to their posts, with
but few exceptions, and with the utmost steadiness and gallantry harnessed
and hitched up their teams under a heavy fire. When the guns arrived at the
caissons in the ravine the entrenchments on the heights above to the front
and left, not 150 yards distant, were occupied by the enemy, who also held
the second parallel ridge directly in rear, thus surrounding them on three
sides. In this position they fortunately halted for a few minutes, evidently
to reform their lines. It was now just daylight, but a heavy mist prevented
their seeing the prize in their very grasp, and they contented themselves
while reforming on the heights above with pouring a heavy musketry and
artillery fire in the ravine, most of which passed over. A number of horses
were however, shot. Profiting by this fortunate circumstance the train of
seven wagons and ambulances, the forage and battery wagon, moved out on the
left and reached the pike. Lieutenant Brewenton at the same time had the
caissons unlimbered and livered up to the pieces, all of which he succeeded
in getting off the hill and delayed by a gully in getting it to the caissons
was unavoidably abandoned. The limber belonging to its caisson was, however,
brought off safely. Here Lieutenant Brewerton, who was at the rear of the
column with one non-commissioned officer and several privates, were taken
prisoners by the enemy. At the same time Second Lieutenant Samuel D.
Southworth, Second U. S. Artillery, the only other officer on duty with the
battery except Lieutenant Brewerton, was killed. In him the service lost a
brave, intelligent, and faithful officer. The column, now much scattered,
moved rapidly up the pike, under a heavy fire, beyond Middletwon, some of the
carriages narrowly escaping capture near Middletown by the enemy's cavalry,
who succeeded in picking up one of the drivers of the captured limbers with
his team. At a distance of nearly a mile from the cap the battery wagon, then
passing the left of the Nineteenth Corps, was lost, three of the six horses
being killed and the driver wounded. The infantry falling back nothing could
be done but to bring off the remaining three horses. The battery (five
pieces) was now joined by Second Lieutenant Charles Holman and B. F Nash,
Fifth U. S. Artillery, the latter having just arrived from Winchester on his
return from detached service, and was moved back to the front by my order and
put in position on the left of the pike, where it fired with good effect upon
the enemy's artillery. The enemy falling back, and the supply of ammunition in
the libbers becoming scant, I directed it all the be placed in those of two
pieces which I sent forward and placed in position in position to the left of
the pike about half a mile to the front, firing with marked effect at the
enemy, who were posted at a point of woods near Middletown. The three other
pieces were sent back to the ammunition train to fill their limberchests. The
enemy being again forced back, and the other pieces having returned, the
battery moved forward at a trot up the pike through Middletwon, and when
within half a mile from Cedar Creek took the gallop and went in position on
the heights above the stream to the right of the pike,m and at once opened
with great precision upon the enemy's column, the rear of which was not more
than 600 yards distant, and which was in full view for a mile beyond. The
firing was kept up till dark with the most effect.
The casualties during the day were 1 commissioned officer (Lieutenant
Southworth) killed, 1 commissioned officer (Lieutenant Brewerton) taken
prisoner, 2 enlisted men wounded 6 taken prisoners, and 1 missing.
The battery lost 1 gun and 6 caissons, battery wagon, and 7 sets of harness for
two horses. The battery wagon, 3 caissons, with the rear part of a fourth were
recaptured at the close of the day. The total loss in horses was 25-10 killed,
2 wounded, and 13 captured by the enemy. Two hundred and and forty-five
rounds of ammunition were expended by the battery during the day.

In conclusion, I would respectfully call attention to the coolness and
gallantry evinced under the most trying circumstances by the officers with
the battery at the commencement of the engagement-First Lieutenant Henry F.
Brewerton, Fifth U. S. Artillery, and Second Lieutenant Samuel D. Southworth,
Second U. S. Artillery-as well as to the zeal , courage, and splendid conduct
of all the non-commissioned officer of the battery without exception. I would
particularly mention First Sergt. James A. Webb, in charge of the caissons
and horses at the moment of the attack; Quartermaster-

Sergt. Robert Sauthoff; Sergt. Charles R. Rogers, stable-sergeant of the
battery; Sergt. Willard A Petrie, and Corporal of ordnance Michael Kelly. The
steadiness and brave conduct of the enlisted men in general could not be
excelled. I would specially name Privates James Scott, John Daines, Joseph S.
Kingsbury, L. H. Grow, Eugene Marker, Alonzo Tompkins, Peter Riley, Edward G.
Weaver, Edgar H. Stone, William J. Shellenbarger, William S. Saford, and
Wagoner Michael A. Schadt.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. A. DU PONT,
Captain Fifth U. S. Artillery, Commanding Battery B, Chief of Artillery, Army
of West Virginia.

Report of Captain Henry A. Du Pont, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
Commanding Artillery Brigade, of operations October 19.

HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY BRIGADE, ARMY OF WEST VIRGINIA,
Camp near Cedar Creek, Va., October 31, 1864.

CAPTAIN: I respectfully submit the following report of the part taken by the
artillery in the battle of Cedar Creek, on the 19th instant:

On the morning of that day the batteries were posted as follows: Batteries B,
Fifth U. S. Artillery (six 3-inch rifled guns), First Lieutenant Henry F.
Brewerton commanding, and D, First Pennsylvania Artillery (six 10-pounder
Parrott guns), First Lieutenant William Munk commanding,
behind a line of entrenchments on a crescent-shaped ridge which rises from
the banks of Cedar Creek, with their caissons, horses, and trains in the
ravine lying between this ridge and a second parallel one commanding one
commanding it somewhat and extending beyond it almost to the pike. On the
extreme right of this second ridge, where it stretches beyond the first,
encamped near a little work overlooking the ford and bridge across Cedar
Creek, was Battery L, First Ohio Artillery (four Napoleon guns), Captain F.
C. Bibbs commanding. The two first-named batteries were some 400 yards
apart, Battery D, First Pennsylvania Artillery, on the left. Early on the
morning of the 19th instant my attention was attracted by some
picket-firing. As a matter of precaution I directed the reveille to be
sounded at once. No ten minutes after, as I was just starting to the works on
the hill, the attack began. I instantly ordered the horses to be harnessed and
hitched, and hastened to the batteries. Upon reaching the hill I found that
the infantry were falling back in great confusion, the enemy having already
carried by works at a point near the front of Battery D, First Pennsylvania
Artillery, and captured the guns, after a most gallant resistance on the part
of the officers and men, a number of when were bayoneted and struck down with
clubbed muskets at their pieces. Lieutenant Brewerton, Commanding Battery B,
Fifth U. S. Artillery, reported the battery loaded with canister, but no enemy
in his immediate front. I directed him to bring some guns to bear on the
point of attack if possible. He succeeded in getting a few shots from his two
center pieces. Seeing that the only chance of saving the artillery still
left lay in the prompt harnessing and hitching of the teams, I directed
Lieutenant Munk to use every exertion to get off as many of them as possible.
Thence proceeding to the caissons of Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, and at
once ordered Captain Gibbs to open a section on a line of the enemy
advancing on the other side of the creek toward the ford, and who were thus
about to cut off the other batteries. I also directed him to immediately
put his other section in position some 300 yards to the left on the more
elevated portion of the flashes of their guns, was very accurate, and
caused them to fall back. The other section, on reaching the point designated,
found itself without support face to face with another line of the enemy, who
were rapidly advancing and had at once had at once to fall back to avoid
capture. Captain Gibbs had also to withdraw for the same reason his other
section. Lieutenant Brewerton meanwhile turned his guns upon the enemy within
the works and continued firing until they had advanced to within twenty-five
yards of the battery, when, abandoned by the infantry, he ran his guns by hand
down the hill to the caissons, unlimbered them, and proceeded to limber up to
the pieces. At this juncture the enemy, now holding the works on the hill to
the front and left, as well as the ridge in rear, whence they had forced
Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, to withdraw, almost completely enveloped the
other two batteries. Fortunately they halted for a few minutes, seemingly to
reform their lines, and contented themselves with pouring a heavy musketry
fire into the ravine. They also fired some canister from the captured guns of
the Pennsylvania battery. In consequence of the mist and the yet uncertain
daylight the fire was comparatively harmless, though some casualties occurred
and a number of horses were shot.
Taking advantage of this, three caissons of Battery D, First
Pennsylvania Artillery, and five pieces of Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery,
with its battery wagon and forge and wagon train, moved out to the right and
reached the pike, whence, though under a heavy fire for more than a mile,
they all got out safely, except the battery wagon, the horses of which being
shot ,fell into the enemy's hands. In extricating Battery B, Fifth U. S.
Artillery, Lieutenant Brewerton was captured at the rear of his column, and
Second Lieutenant Samuel D. Soutworth, Second U. S. Artillery, the only other
officer then with it, was killed. Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, having been
withdrawn, with the loss of only one caisson, it was placed in position about
800 yards to the rear, and one the same side of the pike, where it fired
with effect, until the infantry line gave way, when it fell back, and was put
in position on some heights near the left of the Sixth Corps, where it again
fired a few rounds. As the lines fell back, being without support from the
few rounds. As the lines fell back, being without support from the infantry, I
withdrew it, keeping it between the left of the Sixth Corps and the right of
General Devin's cavalry brigade. General Devin afterward gave me a squadron
to support it, and I then I placed it in position near the pike just beyond
Middletown, where it fired with marked effect on the enemy's infantry, who
were advancing under cover of some buildings. Our lines then slowly falling
back for about a mile, the battery ceased firing and retired. Battery B,
Fifth U. S. Artillery, here joined me, having refitted as far as possible from
its severe losses in the morning, and upon the advance of our lines, about
3.30 p. m., I placed it in position on the east side of the pike, where it
fired with great precision upon the enemy's artillery. The supply of
ammunition becoming short in the absence of caissons, I was compelled to send
three pieces back to the ammunition train to refile their limber-chests. I
then moved forward Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, and two pieces of
Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery, in charge of Second Lieutenant C. Holman, up
the pike, and put them in position a short distance north of Middletwon,
where I was able to get an enfilanding fire upon a battery of the enemy and
a portion of his infantry line who were making a determined resistance at a
point of done with solid shot from Captain Gibbs' Napoleons and shell from
the section of rifled guns of Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery. The enemy
being forced back, and being now joined by the three other pieces of at a trot
through Middletown, and when about half a mile from Cedar Creek took the
gallop until the column reached the heights above the cree, on the west side of
the pike. From this position we overlooked the enemy's column for more than
a mile beyond. His rear was some 600 yards only to our front. I immediately
opened the Napoleon guns, firing toward the rear of the column, the rifled
guns farther in advance. The firing was very accurate, almost every shell
exploding directly in the crowded masses before us. After a very few rounds
evidence of complete demoralization could be plainly seen, wagons and
artillery abandoned by their drivers and dashing along the road in Our
cavalry, who had now formed, then charged and easily captured everything is
sight. The enemy attempted to cover his retreat by a battery, which fired
with great precision for a short time, causing a number of casualties, among
others Captain Gibbs, Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, who was severely
wounded. Upon the advance of the cavalry I ceased firing. It was then almost
dark.

The casualties during the day in the artillery were 52-7 killed, 17 wounded,
and 28 missing. Out of twelve commissioned officers present for duty at the
opening of the battle, six were either killed, wounded, or taken prisoners.

I have to lament the loss of Second Lieutl. Samuel D. Southworth, Second U. S.
Artillery, serving with Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery, who was killed early
in the action near the rear of the column, while withdrawing the guns of the
battery. Lieutenant Southworth was one of zealous, and brave, beloved and
respected by all who knew him. His loss in one which it will be hard to
replace. Among the losses in prisoners were Surg. I. D. Knight, U. S.
Volunteers, senior medical officer, subsequently released by the enemy in
their flight, Captain James Gilliss, assistant quartermaster, First Lieutenant
Henry F. Brewerton, Fifth U. S. Artillery, commanding Battery B, Fifth U. S.
Artillery, and Second Lieutenant James Boyle, Battery D, First Pennsylvania
Artillery, who was knocked down close to the guns with a clubbed musket while
in the act of sobering a rebel.

Captain F. C. Gibbs, commanding Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, was the only
officer wounded. He was struck just before dark by a piece of the last shell
fired by the enemy, after being conspicuous throughout the whole day for
efficiency and gallantry. I desire to particularly call attention to the
coolness and bravery evinced under the most trying circumstances of First
Lieutenant Henry F. Brewerton, commanding Battery B, Fifth U. S. Artillery. He
succeeded in getting five of his six pieces off almost miraculously, and
deserves the greatest credit in theirs connection.

I cannot speak too highly of the good conduct and courage displayed by all
the officers and the enlisted men in general throughout the whole action. To
the obstinacy and determination with which they stuck by their guns to the
the last moment are to be attributed the heavy losses in Battery D, First
Pennsylvania Artillery. Battery L, First Ohio Artillery, came under my
immediate notice during the whole day and behaved admirably at all times.

To the non-commissioned officers and privates of Battery B, Fifth U. S.
Artillery, a special tribute is due for the coolness, steadiness, and
unflinching bravery which they displayed throughout, and specially heavy fire
and in the early part of the action in harnessing and hitching under a heavy
fire and int the extricating of the battery and the saving of the greater
part of its material when almost within the enemy's line. For further
details I beg leave to refer you to the accompanying reports of the
batteries.

The total losses in material during the day were: 7 guns, 10 caissons, 2
battery wagons, 1 forge, 3 army wagons, 1 ambulance, 21 sets of artillery
harness for two horses, 45 artillery horses and 18 mules. About two-thirds of
the animals were killed. All the guns except one, with most of the caissons,
&c., were recaptured at the close of the action.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. A. DU PONT,
Captain, Fifth U. S. Artg., Chief of Artillery, Army of W. Va.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 5, 1864.

Major SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that yesterday the enemy opened from a fort
on the hill in front of Fort Stedman with a 20-pounder gun
on a working party to the left of Fort McGilvery. During the fire the Eleventh
New York Battery had one man killed. Nothing further of importance has occurred
on the line during the past twenty-four hours.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNumbers G. HAZARD,
Major, Commanding.

SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARTILLERY Brigadier , SECOND CORPS,
Numbers 185. November 5, 1864.

I. The commanding officer of Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery will, on
receipt of this order, withdraw his batteries from Fort Blaisdell and move them
to near these headquarters, where he will report in person for further orders.

II. The commanding officer of the Tenth Massachusetts Battery will, on receipt
of this order, place one section of the Tenth Massachusetts Battery will, on
receipt of this order, place one section of his guns in Fort Blaisdell,
relieving Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery.

III. The commanding officers of Battery F, First Pennsylvania Artillery, and
Batteries C and I , Fifth U. S. Artillery, will have their commands hitched
and harnessed at 5 a. m. every morning until further orders.

By command of Major John G. Hazard:
U. D. EDDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT BRADY, VA., November 7, 1864.

Colonel H. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: Have the honor to report less firing by the enemy to-day that
yesterday. As I informed you in my previous report, the vents of two of the
4.5-inch guns are so much worn as to render it unsafe to use them longer.
To-day noticed that the vent of the third was rapidly becoming enlarged; will
not stand more than 150 rounds more at the outside. Under the circumstances,
will it be best to send any more 4.5-inch ammunition at present? Colonel Piper
sent for me to-night in haste, and said, as several of the light pieces had
been removed from the redoubt above, it would be a good idea to move one or two
of the 30-pounder Parrotts to take their places. Told the colonel that I could
not reduce the armament of fort Brady without orders from you. The matter
dropped. Said he had spoken to you with reforge to removing the 8-inch mortars
to Fort Harrison; said you gave your consent in care he sent for them. Please
send me definite instruction about it.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

HDQRS. CHIEF OF ARTILLERY, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
November 7, 1864.

Lieutenant-Colonel JACKSON,
Chief of Artillery, Tenth Army Corps:

Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, is in position on the Bermuda front; F,
Fifth U. S. Artillery, is in position on our corps front (in Batteries Nos. 3
and 4); F, First Rhode Artillery, it at the other end of pontoon bridge at
Varina; B, First U. S. Artillery, is attached to the cavalry-it does not report
to me now; I understand it is near the Crow's Nest. Have you any second
lieutenants of the First Rhode Island Artillery who can be spared for duty with
Battery F of that regiment? It has lately los all of its officers, and I have
assigned to its command a young officers of the Sixteenth New York Battery.

ALEXANDER PIPER,
Colonel, Tenth New York Artillery, Chief of Artillery.

FORT BRADY, VA., November 8, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: Have the honor to report that the enemy have changed their fire from
behind the point of woods to the angle in the woods about the same direction
beyond. Don't think they been so active to-day as yesterday. Understand that it
is the intention to place two 30-pounder Parrotts in the new work behind built
by Colonel Serrell, above Fort Brady. Trust that arrangements will be made to
retain those here in their present position. Would it not be best to park the
4.5-inch guns and put the 30-pounders in embrasure?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connection Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., November 8, 1864.
Captain H. H. PIERCE,
Commanding Siege Artillery north of James:

CAPTAIN: You will not move any of your siege guns from their present position
except upon orders from the headquarters of the major-general commanding the
department, or from me. In the case of mortars, if the rebels should open
heavily upon our lines and continue their fire it may be necessary to reply at
once. Accordingly, if Colonel Piper, chief of artillery, Eighteenth Corps,
should make requisition upon you for them you are authorized to send them with
men to serve them, at once notifying me. If the rebels do not open mortar fire
it is not understood between Colonel Piper and myself that the mortars are to
be moved.

Your obedient servant,
HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Commenting Artillery, Commanding Siege Train.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 18, 1864.

Major SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that about 4 p. m. yesterday the enemy opened
on Fort McGilvery from three batteries across the Appomattox and were replied
to by our mortars on the right. No change perceptible, nor has anything of importance
occurred on the lines during the past twenty-four hours. Two hundred and forty-two
rounds of ammunition expended.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNumbers G. HAZARD,
Major, Commanding.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 18, 1864.

Major SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

MAJOR: In addition to the names already forwarded to brevet rank I have the
honor to recommend Captain Christian Woerner, Third New Jersey Battery, for
gallant and meritorious conduct. Captain Woerner greatly distinguished himself
at the battle of Reams' Station for energy, bravery, and good judgment. His
battery rendered great assistance in repelling the charges of the enemy and in
holding the general position of the corps. I would also recommend Captain T.
Fred. Brown, First Rhode Island Artillery, for a brevet for gallant conduct at
the battle of the Po, May 10, 1864 (to date from day of appointment). Captain
Brown posted his battery on the bank of the river and rendered the greatest
assistance in the crossing of Barlow's division. He entered the service June 6,
1861, and has participated in all of the important battles of the Army of the
Potomac. I earnestly recommend him for the honorable promotion.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNumbers G. HAZARD,
Major, Commanding.

HDQRS. ENGINEER Brigadier AND DEFENSES OF CITY POINT,
November 18, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Train, Broadway Landing:

COLONEL: General Benham directs me to say that he is informed that the
Artillery Reserve trains of the Army of the Potomac are about to be ordered to
the front, and he desirers to know if the artillery company which formerly
constituted the guard of the trains will accompany them. If such is the case,
the siege guns in position within these lines will be left entirely without men
to serve them. Can you inform him as to this matter, and whether other
detachments will be provided if this company is taken away?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
THOS. S. TRUMBULL,
Major First Conn. Arty., Chief of Artillery Defenses of City Point.

BROADWAY LANDING, VA., November 19, 1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

General Benham informs me that he understands that the Artillery Reserve trains
are to be ordered to the front. If so, if the company of foot artillery
accompany them the ten siege guns in position at City Point will be left
without cannoneers. I would therefore request that a company be ordered to
report to me to serve them, or that they may be removed from the line. I have
no available men for them.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, November 19, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Broadway Landing:

The company of heavy artillery is not to be withdrawn.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

FORT BRADY, VA., November 19, 1864.

Colonel H. L. ABBOT,
Commanding Siege Artillery:

COLONEL: Have the honor to report no trouble from the enemy's mortars to-day.
Major Birney was here to try a few shots at the houses near the rebel battery
that fires at Dutch Gap from just in rear of the point of woods;distance, 1,500
yards. Used two common shell to get the range. Struck the chimney the first
time, and made a perceptible hole in the roof the second. Then loaded with one
of his shell, which went a trifle over, owing to the greater weight, and struck in the
water without bursting. Tried another, which passed in at the front door, struck the
chimney on the opposite side, burst, and complete filled the building with burning
liquid. Just as the fire began to appear through the roof sent another shell,
which burst like the previous one, and in an instant almost the whole house
was wrapped in flames; the most beautiful sight you ever saw. Would have given
the world (or a portion) to have had you here. Used the Tice concussion fuse;
it operates to a charm. Major Birney is coming here to-morrow. This is all
preparatory to the grand test in presence of the great men. The major expressed
himself surprised at the accuracy of our gunners. Colonel, I have great
confidence in these shell and in the Tice fuse. Am exceedingly anxious to have
you come and judge of their efficacy. Should you be convinced of their
superiority over the common shell, would solicit the privilege of using them
altogether. It is no humbug. We all thought it was until to-day's practice.
Major Birney claims that these shell will burst into more pieces than the
common, with much less charge of powder, owing to the gas generated by heating
the liquid. Promises to send me Captain Benton's report to prove the matter;
shall forward it to you.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
H. H. PIERCE,
Captain, First Connecticut Artillery.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
November 23, 1864.

Colonel ABBOT:

Can you man a few more guns if they should be required in the new batteries
near the Avery and Dunn houses? If so, how many? The batteries are both
barbette.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General and Chief of Artillery.

BROADWAY LANDING, November 23, 1864.

Brigadier-General HUNT,
Headquarters Army of the Potomac:

I can only man more guns by further dividing the companies now at Petersburg.
If absolutely necessary this might be done so as to put a section in each of
he new works.

HENRY L. ABBOT,
Colonel First Connecticut Artillery.

NOVEMBER 28, 1864.

Major HAZARD,
Chief of Artillery, Second Corps:

General Humphreys reports that the new battery of the enemy enfilades his
picket-line. I will go down at once. If you cannot meet me at the Jones house I
shall go on to your headquarters.

HENRY J. HUNT,
Brigadier-General.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 28, 1864.

Major SEPTIMUS CARNCROSS,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Corps:

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that three shots were fired yesterday from a
battery to the left of the mine, which accounts in part for the work done at
that point lately. This battery enfilades our picket-line. Small working
parties have been observed on the works west of the rebel Fort Mahone.
Seventeen rounds of ammunition expended on them; fifty-nine rounds from
Cooper's mortars on working parties to the right and left of the Crater, and
ninety rounds from Battery Numbers 20 in reply to shells from the enemy's
mortars.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
JNumbers G. HAZARD,
Major, Commanding.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 28, 1864.

Lieutenant THEODORE HUYSMAN,
Commanding Batteries C and I, Fifth U. S. Artillery:

LIEUTENANT: The major commanding instructs me to say that he directs you to
withdraw your battery at once from its present position and to park it in the
field where the quartermaster of this brigade now has his train, which is in
rear of these headquarters a short distance. He directs that you break camp and
have your command in readiness to move at daylight at a moment's notice. The
carriages can be heavily packed with grain, as the movement is only a short
distance to the left to relieve the Ninth Corps.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
U. D. EDDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. ARTILLERY BRIGADE, SECOND ARMY CORPS,
November 28, 1864.

Captain J. HENRY SLEEPER,
Commanding Tenth Massachusetts Battery:

CAPTAIN: The major commanding instructs me to say that he directs you to break
camp and have your battery in readiness to move at a moment's notice at
daylight of the 29th, but not to move the pieces out of the forts. The movement
will be to the left for the purpose of relieving the Ninth Corps, and the
carriages can be heavily loaded with grain if necessary. If you have not horses
enough to move your battery the battery wagon and forage may be left behind,
under charge of an officer, who can bring them up as soon as he obtains the
horses in the morning, which Captain Fisher, assistant quartermaster, has ready
for issue.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
U. D. EDDY,
Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

Reports of Colonel Henry L. Abbot, First Connecticut Heavy Artillery,
Commanding Siege Train, including operations June 14-October 31.
HEADQUARTERS SIEGE TRAIN AND SIEGE ARTILLERY,
Broadway Landing, Va., December 5, 1864.

General:*

On June 14 the Eighteenth Corps, under Major-General Smith, arrived in advance
of the Army of the Potomac, and at once moved on Petersburg.

On June 20 Company I, First Connecticut Artillery, Captain Burton, was sent
with two 30-pounder Parrotts (a third subsequently added) to his front.

On June 21 the rebel rams came down near Dutch, Gap, and with the Howlett house
(rebel) battery, fired on our navy. Lieutenant Dimock replied from Battery
Spofford, and ultimately silenced the latter.

On June 23 my regular train arrived from Washington Arsenal in charge of
Captain Hatfield. Lieutenant-General Grant immediately ordered me to report to
Brigadier-General Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac, for the
service of that train, detaching such companies from the Bermuda Hundred lines
as were necessary for serving the guns, but not otherwise changing my duties
under General Butler. Accordingly, since that date I have held the double
position of commanding officer of the siege artillery of the Army of the James
and of the siege train Army of the Potomac. All of the heavy artillery in front
of Richmond has thus been served under a common head and chiefly by the First
Connecticut Artillery. Prior to this date all my ordnance supplies were drawn
from Captain A. Mordecai, chief ordnance officer, Army of the James. After its
arrival the siege train was supplied by direct requisition upon the Ordnance
Department, and subsequently, by order of General Grant, the procuring of all
ordnance supplies for heave guns for both armies was placed under my charge.

My first duty upon the arrival of the train proper was to establish a suitable
depot. After due examination Broadway Landing, on the Appomattox River, was
selected, and three substantial wharves were built. My orders were to keep the
material afloat, and this has been scrupulously done, no ammunition even
being unloaded, except to put upon the wagons.
Major-General Butler established a telegraph office at the landing for the
service of the train, and gave me a detail of two companies of the One hundred
and thirty-eighth Ohio National Guard for ordnance duty. They were relieved on
July 15 by two companies Thirty-seventh New Jersey Volunteers, which, on August
28, were replaced by a detachment of 100 men of the Eleventh Connecticut
Volunteers, under command of Captain Kraszynski. Brigadier-General Ingalls,
chief quartermaster armies in the field, supplied a tug and a train of fifty
wagons, with a promise of further transportation when required. Besides these
wagons the four artillery teams of Captain Korte, Third Pennsylvania Artillery,
attached to my command, have been habitually used. This battery was organized
by General Butler for the purpose of moving all his heavy guns, its regular
armament being two 8-inch siege howitzers, which themselves would hardly
require transportation other than that furnished by the quartermaster's
department. Captain Korte has always been eager for service and much benefit
has been derived from this organization. Lieutenant Colonel N. L. White was
appointed by General Butler acting inspector-general of my command of June 29,
and besides his other duties has discharged the functions of that office in a
thorough manner. Captain S. P. Hatfield was placed in command of the depot,
assisted by First Lieutenant W. C. Faxon and First Lieutenant C. Gillett, all
of First Connecticut Artillery. Captain Hatfield had commanded a siege battery
during a part of the Peninsular Campaign of 1862, and had been ordnance officer
of my brigade in the defense of Washington for more than a year. To his high
professional attainments and energetic character, and to the zeal and ability
of his assistants, the excellent administration of his department during the
campaign is to be attributed.

The general system for the service and supply of the batteries was the
following: The companies and parts of companies serving the batteries, situated
within convenient distance, were placed under command of a field officer of
First Connecticut Artillery, who received his orders as to firing from the
local commander. In other respects he received his orders from these
headquarters. The battery commanders forwarded daily to their majors reports
showing the amount of ammunition on hand at last report, amount received during
the twenty-four hours, amount expended, and amount remaining on hand. These
reports were collected by orderlies from my headquarters and usually reached
the depot about noon. A train was at once fitted out to supply the deficiencies
below a certain number of rounds (usually 100 per gun or mortar) ordered to be
kept in the field magazines. These trains reported to the field officers,
already informed by telegram of their destination and time of starting and were
conducted after dark under their directions to their proper batteries. Although
some 900 tons of ammunition, hauled an average distance of nearly seven miles
by wagon, have already been fired during the campaign, in no single instance
has a battery failed to be amply supplied for ordinary or even extraordinary
demands, and in no case has a useless accumulation of ammunition occurred. The
question of responsibility for ordnance property, so difficult of convenient
adjustment, has also been very simply settled for the siege train. The whole
material remains charged to the ordnance officer. Memorandum receipts, which
are destroyed when the property is accounted for to him, being only required
from battery commanders. No time is thus expended upon unnecessary
papers, which, with the constant transfer of ordnance from one battery to
another, would have entailed great labor upon company commanders, had the usual
system been adopted. Knowing that the rations likely to be drawn from the
neighboring commissaries of subsistence would be inferior to those which would
be supplied by an independent organization, I appointed my regimental
quartermaster, Lieutenant G. P. Mason, First Connecticut Artillery, acting
assistant quartermaster and acting commissary of subsistence, and directed him
to supply the command. This he has done to perfection with a train of only
seventeen wagons, although the line has often exceeded fifteen miles in length.
The water transportation has enabled him to get his supplies and forage to the
depot without hauling, and his own good judgment and energy have done the rest.
I have taken advantage of the comparative stability of the command to have all
the regimental sick properly cared for by Surg. S. W. Skinner, First
Connecticut Artillery, who has organized one of the best field hospitals I have
ever seen. The patients have averaged from forty to seventy in number. By
avoiding the sending of those lightly attacked to general hospital much has
unquestionably been done to keep up the numbers of the command. The comforts of
the patients have been quite unusual for the field, owing to the attention of
the surgeon in charge and to the efforts of the chaplain, S. F. Jarvis, First
Connecticut Artillery, who has actively exerted himself in their behalf. Asst.
Surg. J. S. Delavan has devoted himself to the sick of the regiment in the
batteries in front of Petersburg, and Asst. Surg. N. Matson, until broken down
by his exertions,, to those in the command on the lines of Bermuda Hundred.
Although so much scattered I believe few troops have enjoyed as good medical
care during this campaign as mine. For the prompt and accurate transaction of
the various office work of the command, I am indebted to First Lieutenant B.
P. Learned, First Connecticut Artillery, regimental adjutant and acting
assistant adjutant-general.

The following changes have been made in my organization during the campaign: On
June 28 Companies A and H, Thirteenth New York Artillery, under command of
Captain William Pendrell, were assigned to my command by Major-General Butler.
They were placed in the lines of Bermuda Hundred. Ten companies of the Fourth
New York Artillery, Lieutenant-Colonel Allcock commanding, aggregate 1,072 men,
were added to my command by General Hunt on July 14. On the 15th I placed
Company A, Captain McKeel, on duty at the siege train depot, and on the 29th
Company M, Captain Morrison, on the same duty. Three companies, as shown in the
table below, served batteries; the rest of the regiment did excellent service
in making gabions, fascines, magazines, and in constructing some of the siege
batteries. They were detached on August 4.

On October 16 I was ordered to report for my command of the siege artillery,
Army of the James of the James, to Brigadier General Charles K. Graham,
commanding Provisional Division, instead of direct to General Buttler, as
heretofore. The organization just described was made under a pressure which,
owing to the constant demands for siege artillery in front of Petersburg,
enhanced its difficulties. The batteries and the ammunition were hauled an
average distance of nearly eight miles, over roads extremely dusty, but
otherwise good rom the time of going into position until the explosion of the mine,
the fire of most of these batteries was incessant, and their practice was all that could
be desired.

On July 30 the mine on General Burnside's front was sprung at 4.45 a.m., and a
heavy cannonade was instantly opened and continued until about 10.30 a.m., when
it gradually ceased, the assault of the infantry having failed and the attack
being discontinued. The part assigned to the artillery to keep down the fire of
the enemy upon the flanks of the column of attack and to keep down the fire of
the enemy upon the flanks of the column of attack and to keep back hi
re-enforcements was successfully executed. This battle was probably the first
in which spherical case from heavy mortars was used. The expedient of putting
thirty 12-pounder canister-shot under the bursting charge of the 10-inch shells
was of great utility, their steady fire keeping quiet the most dreaded flanking
batteries of the enemy's line.

The aggregate number of rounds fired in front of Petersburg up to July 31 was
thus 16,062 rounds, amounting to about 300 tons, and during the battle of July
30, 3,833 rounds, amounting to about 75 tons. The firing on the Bermuda Hundred
lines, between the arrival of the siege train and July 31, nearly ceased,
amounting only to nineteen 10-inch mortar shells, six 4 1/2-inch shells, and
three 20-pounder Parrott shells. Thus the entire expenditures from the opening
of the campaign to July 31 was 18,061 rounds, amounting to 325 tons.

At 11.35 p.m. July 30, 1864, I received a telegram from General Hunt to move
with urgent haste certain siege ordnance and siege material from the batteries
at Petersburg to my depot at Broadway Landing, on Appomattox River.

The seven siege guns, &c., in Batteries 1 and 4 were moved by transportation
light artillery teams and wagons, furnished by Colonel Piper, chief of
artillery, Eighteenth Corps. The 13-inch mortar, which was served on a railroad
truck car made so strongly as to resist the shock of firing, was drawn to City
Point by a locomotive. The rest of the material was moved by the four artillery
teams of Captain Korte and by a train furnished by General Ingalls, as follows:
My regular train, 50 wagons, an extra train of 60 wagons, furnished for
contingencies arising from the battle, upon my requisition on July 30, and an
extra train of 60 wagons and 18-eight-mule teams furnished at 8.30 a.m. July
31, in response to a telegram of mine dated 1.35 a.m. of that date. Total, 170
wagons and 22 teams. The orders to move the material were received by me at
11.35 p.m. July 30. By the aide of the telegraph, matters were so well arranged
that the trains began arriving at the depot at daylight of July 31, and
continued to do as fast as they could be unloaded up to 2.30 a.m. of August 1,
when the last was received. Total period, twenty-seven hours. The material was
all brought in Government wagons, except the guns and the 10-inch mortars, the
latter of which were loaded on mortar wagons. The rebels did not discover the
movement, although many of the batteries were in the very front of our line.
The aggregate weight transported was 225 tons. The material was shipped as fast
as unloaded. By noon of August 1, thirty-six hours after the first telegram,
everything was afloat. The labor at the depot was performed by two companies of
Fourth New York Artillery and six companies of Thirty-seventh New Jersey
Volunteers; the latter working two at a time, aided occasionally by the
companies of First Connecticut Artillery, who had served and moved the
batteries. Three wharves were used; at this date mere crib gang-ways. The very
unusual promptness of this movement was due, first, to the facilities furnished
by the telegraph; second, to the ample transportation furnished by General
Ingalls; third, to the intelligence and energy of Captain (now Major) Brooker,
First Connecticut Artillery, commanding the batteries on Fifth and Ninth Corps
fronts; of Major Trumbull, First Connecticut Artillery, commanding batteries on
Eighteenth Corps front; of Lieutenant-Colonel White, First Connecticut
Artillery, acting inspector-general, and of the officers commanding the
batteries. Everything was brought away-artillery, ammunition, implements,
platforms, mantles; nothing was damaged or lost.

To Captain Hatfield, First Connecticut Artillery, my ordnance officer, the
credit for the rapid loading of so much material on transports is due. I doubt
if there is another regiment in service which could have accomplished the work
so rapidly and well. Thus ended the first period of the siege. At this date I
had thirty-three guns and mortars in position on the Bermuda Hundred lines and
twenty-nine [in] front of Petersburg.

The aggregate number of rounds fired during these three months was thus 26,912,
amounting to about 545 tons of iron. The total expenditure of ammunition from
the beginning of the campaign to October 31 was 44,973 rounds, amounting to 870
tons of iron. Upon the Petersburg lines the firing has been so frequent as to
render it difficult to select special instances for mention. At all hours of
the day and night sudden artillery battle have occurred, often involving the
entire line and demanding the expenditure of many tons of ammunition. This has
usually arisen from the position of the right of our line, which is necessarily
enfiladed from the Chesterfield Heights, and advantage that has given the rebel
batteries there a strong temptation to open fire.

It is beyond a doubt that our practice, especially in mortars, is superior to
theirs, and these fights have thus uniformly terminated by our silencing them.
Upon the occasion of their exploding a mine near Battery 12, on August 5, an
unusually heavy fire occurred, as also at other times when they attempted to
interfere with the use of our military railroad or we tried to interrupt their
working parties or to stop picket-firing by shelling Petersburg. General
Butler's canal at Dutch Gap has also been the scene of much firing.

On August 13, just after the work began, the rebel navy came down, and, in
conjunction with the Howlett house batteries and some field guns on Cox's Hill,
opened a very heavy concentric fire upon the gap from an are of about 170
degrees. My James River batteries were very active and finally succeeded
driving off the rams and silencing the Howlett house battery so effectually
that the experiment was not repeated. About August 20, however, the rebels
planted some Coehorn mortars in a secure spot northwest of the canal within
good range, and since that time have kept up a desultory fire upon the gap,
doing very little damage, however, owing to the want of skill in serving the
mortars. Not one in a hundred of their shells have fallen in the canal, where
good one made as an experiment. The first car broke under the shock, a second,
prepared by the engineers in charge of the military railroad, answered its
purpose admirably; it consisted of an ordinary truck car, strengthened by
additional beams tied strongly by iron rods, and covered by iron plating. Fired
with fourteen pounds powder the mortar recoiled upon the car less than two
feet, and upon the track some ten or twelve feet. It was a decided success. On
one occasion three different observed reported that a shell burst under a gun,
and blew it and its carriage en