Title
T. P. Robb to Richard Yates
Publisher
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Date
1864-08-22
Format
pdf
Language
en
Identifier
509317
Transcription
with T.P. Robb letter 8/21/64
Memphis 22' August 1864
Governor Yates
Dear Sir.
Enclosed please find the "Bulletin" with accounts of the rebel raid yesterday morning - Also a dispatch which I sent to the office yesterday morning. it was looked upon as contraband & detained. I sent Gene Fulton this mail a list of the killed & wounded & am having His troops engaged - Also a brief report. I have been engaged all day in looking after our Killed & wounded & have not had time to propose a more extended account. Col Starr was doing well this morning - his surgeon, Major (Niglas), informs me that he thinks he will recover. The Lieut Col of the 137th wound, was very slight- he is on duty.
I visited Col Wood this morning & found him very comfortable. He desired me to present his respects to you. Would you please see my report to Genl Fulton. The last bell is ringing & I am compelled to close
Very Respectfully
Yours T.P. Robb
Agt.
His Excellency Richard Yates - T.P. Robb
Monday Morning Bulletin
Monday ::::::: August 22
REBEL RAID IN MEMPHIS
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FORREST ENTERS THE CITY
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What he Souhgt but Didn't get
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A BRILLIANT EXPLOIT
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Capture of Gen. Washburn's Coat
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THE GAYOSO HOUSE SEARCHED
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Citizens Shot on the Street
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HOW THE REBELS SKEDADDLED
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THEY ARE PURSUED
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REBEL PRISONERS TAKEN
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THE KILLED AND WOUNDED
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Strength of the Rebel Force
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FULL PARTICULARS
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The citizens of South Memphis were startled from their slumbers at an early hour this morning by the noise of musketry, accompanied by hooting and yelling, and rattling of horses' hoofs through the streets. What the strange commotion was nobody seemed to know, though the general belief was that it was caused by a mutiny in Irving Block or among the soldiers. Looking from the windows of their houses however, they discovered groups of rebel cavalry in every direction. Instantly the alarm spread through the city, and officers, soldiers and citizens rushed to their respective camps and armories to prepare for defense. The militia and the provost guard were soon ready for action. By this time the rebels were scattered in squads through the city, and skirmishing became lively; musketry was heard on all hands, and the excitement became intense. The cry was that Forrest was in town, but it was believed by only a few, from the fact that he was supposed to have his hands full in Mississippi. But Forrest was here sure enough, and was seen by many who recognized them.
Citizens and soldiers going about the streets were halted, and in many cases, killed or wounded by the rebels, and wherever a negro was seen he was hotly pursued and shot down. About ten are reported killed. At the hour of writing it is impossible to tell how many met that fate. Several rebels were killed by the Provost Guard, and their bodies left for hours on the streets, viewed by crowds of curious spectators. Several prisoners were brought into Irving Block, from one whom we learned the following:
On Thursday at 11 o'clock his regiment (the 16th Tennessee cavalry) were on picket duty at Oxford, Mississippi, where Forrest and his command were stationed. A soldier rode in hot haste to the line, and immediately they were ordered to Oxford. That evening at five o'clock, with twenty rounds of ammunition and short rations, they left with other regiments in a westerly direction, and after riding all night, taking a semi circular course, struck the Mississippi and Tennessee railroad at Panola, thirty-two miles, early the next morning. Here they were furnished with six day's rations, and sixty additional rounds of ammunition, part of which was carried in wagons, of which there were ten accompanying the expedition.
They rode hard that day (Friday) and in the evening encamped six miles above Como. At 4 A.M. Saturday they resumed the march, and soon after arrived at Hickahala and Cold water, where they built bridges, and succeeded in crossing about half an hour before sundown the same evening. They halted for awhile after crossing to rest, and soon after started on a quick pace, by the Hernando road, towards Memphis. At 3 o'clock they dashed through our picket lines on the same road, and after brisk skirmishing, in which a few were killed and wounded, a portion of the force entered the city.
The expedition was under command of Major General Forrest in person and consisted of the following regiments, with four guns, two of which were mired on the route.
2d Tenn., cavalry, Col Bartow; 12th Tenn., cavalry, Col. Nealy; 14th Tenn., cavalry, Col. Logwood; 15th Tenn., cavalry, Col. Stewart; 16th Tenn., cavalry, Col. N. Wilson; 21st Tenn., cavalry, Col. John Newsom; 22d Tenn., cavalry, Colonel Russell; 2d Missouri Cavalry, Col. Bob McColleugh; 18th Miss., cavallry, Colonel Chalmers.
Saturday night, our informant stated special orders were issued to the several regiments to the effect that any man found dismounting or leaving the ranks, while in Memphis, would be shot; and horse-stealing and other depredations were prohibited on the same penalty. This order, it is believed, was to prevent straggling and desertion. About half of the force, he thinks, entered the city, the other half remaining outside the lines, as a guard to prevent their retreat from being cut off. The second Missouri, 16th Tennessee, and 18th Mississippi were among the force entering the city.
Arriving at Beal street, the rebels divided off in several squads and struck for the Gayoso House, Hospitals, Irving Block and General Washburn's Headquarters on Union Street. The latter was first visited by a force of about 200, under Lieut. Col. Jesse Forrest, who entered and found it deserted, the General and his staff having but a moment before escaped. They received warning from Co. Starr, of the 6th Illinois cavalry, of the approach of the rebels. He had been at the front, and dashed in ahead. The General sought refuge in the fort and escaped. His staff also escaped. Lieut Col. Forrest remained in the Headquarters some fifteen minutes, and brought forth Gen. Washburn's overcoat and some papers, after which he started for the Gayoso House, with his force. They drove right into the office of the hotel, until it was crowded to excess with horses and men, and enquired for Gen. Hurlbut, whom they wished delivered up. The clerk, Mr. Becktold, who was behind the office counter, informed them that he was not in the hotel. The rebels called him a d---d liar, and said they knew better, demanding the number of his room. It was given, and the rebels dismounting and leaving their horses standing in the office, ascended to the upper floors, and battered in two thirds of the doors through the house in their search for Gen. Hurlbut. The General, however, fortunately, perhaps, was at the residence of Col. Eddy, on Shelby street, whither he had gone the night before. Capt. Cook, of his staff, was in the hotel, and escaped capture after a sharp encounter with three rebels, who entered his room to take him prisoner.
Further than breaking in the doors, the rebels committed no depredation in the rooms. The furniture was not molested. Considerable money and jewelry, as well as clothing, were taken from the boarders, some of whom were taken prisoners, but subsequently escaped. Lieut. Harrington of the 3rd U.S. Artillery was in the office when the rebels first appeared. They made him prisoner and placed him behind the counter with Mr. Becktold. While there, a bullet coming through the window from the street, pierced his head, killing him instantly. His person was immediately plundered. The Quartermaster of the 7th Illinois Cavalry is said to have been killed. A private was shot at the door.
Private Alex. McCown of the 8th Iowa, who was on guard, was taken prisoner.
A party of 20 or 30 rebels, while this was going on at the hotel, amused themselves by attacking the house of Fire Engine No. 5, nearly opposite, Charles Roach and Ed. Boswell were on duty there. The former was killed and the latter escaped. Two negroes were killed on the bluff at the foot of Monroe street.
Another force of the rebs stopped at the "Union House" corner of Beale and Second Street and were about to sack it, When an old lady from Mississippi, stopping at the house, who was acquainted with some of the rebel officers, appeared, and persuaded them to desist. They then started for the BULLETIN office and Irving Block. At Irving Block they called upon the prisoners within to break loose, as they had now an opportunity of escaping, and then fired upon the guards in the yard. The latter rushed up through the prison, appeared at the upper windows, and simultaneously with a portion of the 8th Iowa, who appeared at the corner of Court street, opened a sharp fire upon the rebels, who skedaddled with the loss of one or two wounded. But for the timely arrival of the 8th Iowa, who seemed to be everywhere, doing excellent service in the right time, the prisoners at the Irving Block might have been released, and the BULLETIN office sacked.
Several hundred rebels murderously attacked the Gayoso Hospital. They first called upon private M. Jones of the 140th Illinois, who was on guard at the entrance, to surrender. He refused, and was instantly fired upon, receiving a wound in the shoulder. A number of shots were fired before several of the rebels cried out, "That's an hospital, boys, don't fire." They desisted, and a portion went around to the rear. Dr. Burke was standing by private Jones, when the rebels fired and had a narrow escape. In the rear they captured six invalid soldiers, whom they carried off. One poor fellow, unable to keep up with the rebel cavalry, was shot down. His name was Jeremiah T. Roberts. The wound is in the shoulder, and very painful. Jacob Mosier, 24th Mo., David Brown, 21st Mo., Wm. Trimmer, 72d Ohio, and David Picket of the 14th Iowa were taken prisoners.
While these and other proceedings were going on, the militia were hastily collected under General Dustan, and rendered valuable services at various points. They have shown that they can be depended upon in time of need. The volunteers were also busily engaged and harassed the enemy continually.
At six o'clock, A.M., the rebels finding the city getting too hot for them, suddenly retreated back into the country, going through Beale street, having remained two hours in the city and accomplished nothing more than the capture of about 200 citizens and straggling soldiers, and 100 horses and mules.
The rebel prissener above referred to also informed us that a Kentucky brigade, detailed to leave Oxford, with the expedition, deserted entire on the route. Their term of service expired on the 1st of August, and they were unwilling to do any more fighting. They returned to their homes. He stated that General A.J. Smith's force was at Abbyville, and they eluded him by taking the course as above. He does not know the object of the expedition. The capture of Generals Washburn and Hurlbut, no doubt, was the main object; as the rebels made no attempt at plundering the stores. Perhaps they were kept too busily engaged.
A force of considerable strength was sent in pursuit, and an engagement took place near the lines, in which Colonel Starr, of the 6th Illinois cavalry, was seriously wounded in thigh, and Colonel Kendrichs in the head. They were brought in. Joseph Fuller and E. Cushman, of the 7th Illinois cavalry, were slightly wounded. The rebels again retreated, and at last accounts were across the Nonconnah, our forces in hot pursuit. It is thought that they cannot escape capture. It is thought by military men that Forrest, finding himself unable to cope with General Smith, made this adventurous, but profitless raid for effect.
We are informed that, after the retreat from the city, Forrest sent in a flag of truce asking for an exchange of prisoners, which was denied.
Frederick Hailman, a citizen, with two soldiers, whose names we did not learn, executed a bold feat. They were standing on Beale street, armed, when six rebels dashed up. They were ordered to halt and surrender. The rebels fired with no effect. Hailman and his companions, who had not fired, leveled their muskets, and again ordered them to surrender, which they did. They had no opportunity to reload. They were disarmed, and handed over to an officer. Their guns were given to negroes.
One of the 8th Iowa encountered a rebel in front of the post office, and ordered him to halt. The rebel fired, wounding him in the leg. The guard then fired, shooting him dead on the spot, the ball entering his neck. He was recognized as John Stokes, formerly of this city, from which place he enlisted several years ago, in the rebel service. His mother and sister had the body removed.
A rebel soldier named Charles Reeves, of Jackson, Tenn., was fatally wounded in the breast, on Beal street, and was removed to the house of Mrs. Tufts.
An unknown man in citizens' dress was shot dead by the rebels on the same street.
it is said that a rebel Colonel and fifty prisoners have been captured since morning, and taken to Fort Pickering.
T.F. Clutts, Charles W. Hicks, and J.J. Penn, of the 16th Tenn., and W.C. Roberts of the 21st Tenn., are in the Irving Block. Penn was captured by private Samuel B. Clark of the 8th Iowa.
The Soldiers Home on Beale street was entered and a number of inmates captured.
A preacher of an African congregation was shot at the corner of Second and Beale streets.
A number of negroes were shot in several portions of the city.
Two suspicious persons were arrested by the guard, and lodged in Irving Block. They were not dressed as soldiers.
Michael Listan, a brave member of the Fire Department, who was two years ago captured while an overseer at the Union Depot on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad, and taken to Hatchie bottom, where he was robbed of four hundred dollars, hearing the firing this morning and learning that the rebels had entered Memphis, sallied out to fight them. Coming across one who had been slightly wounded in one arm by a shot from the Irving Block guards he was about to shot him, when the rebel surrendered. A squad of the rebels were fighting at the Irving Block at the time, but Listan managed to convey his prisoner from the other side of Court Square to No. 1 Engine house, where the rebel was kept until his comrades retired, when he was taken to Irving Block and handed over to the authorities for safe keeping.
There were a number of instances of women firing from windows on the rebel invaders, and this seemed to be exceedingly unpleasant to them. They expected men to fire on them, but not women.
Mr. P.G. Ware sallied out as soon as the alarm was given, fired a shot-gun at the retreating rebels, and then procuring another gun, pursued them some distance.
When the rebels surrounded the block in which Gen. Washburn resides, they searched all the houses and captured the men whom they found. They were so unwilling to give up the search for Gen. Washburn that after hunting through every room in his building they went upon the roof to see if he might not be found there.
In one house they found Capt. Heitzfield of Co., B, 3rd Regt. E. M. D. M. They asked his wife if there was any "dammed Yankees there." They told Capt. Heitzfield to "come along" as a prisoner. He asked permission to put on a pair of boots, and to entertain his unwelcome guests, he produced a bottle of whiskey. They liked it, and he went into the next room to look for his boots, but forgot to return, and when they went to look for him he was not to be found.
They found E. Lowenstine, a wealthy Israelite, who keeps a store under Odd Fellow's Hall, at his residence, and ordered him to accompany them. He thought it was militia, and responded, "Shentlemens, Shentlemens, I no a soldier. I got exemption," but, unfortunately, this plea did not avail, and he had to go along.
Of the guards at Gen. Washburn's residence, ten were captured, but one, after firing at the rebels, effected his escape.
Among the meanest acts of the invaders was the robbing of newsboys whom they met, of all the BULLETINS in their possession.
Five rebels were captured in Beal street near the Market.
General Forrest was at one time observed conversing with some ladies at a house on the Hernando road.
The names of General N.B. Forrest and staff appear on the register of the Gayose House. It was written by Colonel Forrest (line illegible) General Hurlbut and staff.
It is impossible to obtain a correct estimate of the number of citizens, soldiers, and negroes killed and wounded. Estimates vary from thirty to fifty. We learn from a rebel prisoner that Colonels Mabray's and Holts brigade were left at Oxford, holding General Smith. He also states that their horses was poor and ill fed.
About two hundred artillery shots were fired in the neighborhood of the State Female College, where a brisk fight occurred. The College was struck several times. Two companies of Federals were in it. Five rebels, shot through the head, lie dead in front; also a hack driver, of this city, with a pass dated Saturday. It is supposed that by misrepresentation he obtained it, and went through the lines yesterday as a guide.
The Hernando road and the camp ground of the 137th Illinois are strewn with dead rebel-horses.
A Union soldier was captured and disarmed by a rebel on the Hernando road and compelled to mount behind him. He had a pistol in his pocket, however, which the rebel missed. Drawing it he stuck the muzzle in the rebel's ear and ordered him to drive as he told him. The reb complied, and is now a prisoner at the Fort.
Col. John McDonold, late commanding the militia, was captured at the Gayoso House, and carried out on the retreat, but finally escaped, minus his top coat, money, jewelry, etc.
Negroes were running in every direction, begging for arms.
The militia turned out in large force, and did good service.
Mr. Sam. Pease was robbed of considerable amount in money and jewelry.
Mr. Snowden, residing at the corner of Vance and DeSoto streets, was badly wounded while looking from a window.
Coming through the lines, the rebels captured two guns and a number of the 7th Wisconsin battery, together with a few hundred-day men, but were obliged to leave the guns in their retreat.
By 9 o'clock A.M. the scare had entirely subsided, and the rebel raid was regarded as a good joke, and a poor (spe??n) the part of the bugbear Forrest.
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LATER!
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DESPERATE FIGHTING ON THE HERNANDO ROAD.
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The Rebels ask an Exchange of Prisoners
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HEROISM OF THE VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA
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A DESPERATE ADVENTURE OF MAJ. LACKLAND
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The Rebel Army Driven by General Buckland and Gen. Dustan with Only 180 Men
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SLAUGHTER OF THE REBELS BY COL. BELL'S COMMAND.
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Three Determined Charges on the 137th Illinois.
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ANOTHER ACCOUNT.
The following resume of this (illegible) raid was obtained from reliable sources by another of our reporters: The rebel prisoners vary greatly in their estimates of the number of rebel raiders. One says the invading force was composed of Nealy and Bell's brigades and another battalion. Others say there were two, three or four brigades. They numbered from fifteen hundred to two thousand men, all cavalry. They were commanded by Gen. Forrest. On Thursday night they got away from the front of Gen. Smith and rode on the double-quick to Panola. On Friday they had ridden to this side of Como, and on Saturday they built bridges over Tallahatchie and Cold Water, and between three and four o'clock, dashed forward to Memphis. They were confronted by the picket guards, of whom a number were captured. Some of the pickets made a stubborn resistance, and the alarm was given to the 7th Wisconsin and 6th Iowa regiments. The rebels did not stop to fight, but dashed into the city. Col. Starr, of the 6th Iowa, reached Gen. Washburn's residence a few minutes before the rebels arrived. He informed the General that the rebels had forced a passage of the guards, and he should save himself. Gen. Washburn looked out of his bed room window as a column of rebels dashed up Union street towards his headquarters. The next he passed out the back way and went round toward his headquarters to see what was going on, and to take measures for concentrating forces at some point. As he stood in Union street a short distance above his headquarters, a second rebel column was seen dashing down Union street toward him. He started to get away, the rebels called to him to stop, but he did not do it; they then fired a number of shots at him, but as he had no shoulder straps on or other insignia of his rank they did not recognize him. He without receiving further interruption or the slightest injury made his way to the fort. The rebels doubtless supposed he was some private soldier and hoped to capture bigger game. They did not find Gen Washburn at his headquarters, but they captured Lieut. Kinsey, who is a member of his staff and also several clerks. They proceeded to Gen. Washburn's residence but he was not there. After making an ineffectual attempt to capture Gen Hurlbut at the Gayoso House, which they surrounded, and in which they did some damage, by breaking open doors, stealing clothing, watches and segars, they captured several prisoners, two of whom they afterwards murdered. They barbarously fired on the patients in the Hospitals, shot several sick soldiers whom they took prisoners, and made a demonstration on the Irving Block, but met a stubborn resistance and left. Squads of them made demonstrations on other points, but accomplished very little, and after about an hour's stay they retired from the city on the double quick, by the Hernando road, pursued by General Dustan and such Federal cavalry as could be immediately procured.
They took with them about 250 prisoners, (mostly hundred day men) and perhaps a hundred horses. Gen. Washburn lost a couple of little horses. The rebels were not able to carry off any other plunder. The 8th Iowa boys fired on them wherever they made their appearance about the streets. Quite a number of rebels were killed or captured. Gen. BUCKLAND, with his staff, turned out promptly and rode through the streets, collecting forces and organizing resistance, and when it was discovered that the rebels had retired, he prepared for rapid pursuit, Gen WASHBURN, when he escaped, repaired to the Fort, and from thence issued his orders to meet the invaders. In about an hour he returned to his Headquarters that had been pillaged of papers and an old coat or two, and yesterday he was actively engaged in official duties.
The dash failing in its great object, the capture of Gen. WASHBURN, was a miserable failure. It cost the rebels men and wear of horses, and it accomplished nothing of the slightest military consequence. It is not unlikely that Gen- Smith may meet the rebels as they fly from our forces. At the last accounts there had been fighting at Nonconnah, between the rebels and their pursuers.
Three of the six days rations with which the rebels started from Oxford have already been used up, and their escape is exceedingly doubtful. At noon General Forrest sent in a flag of truce to ask an exchange of prisoners. During the fighting, Col. STARR, who distinguished himself by bravery, was severely wounded, a short distance from the city, while pursuing the rebels with such forces as he could collect.
This dash into Memphis was a bold affair, but it was utterly unprofitable to the rebels. it did not result in the capture of General WASHBURNE, nor Gen. BUCKLAND, nor Gen. DUSTAN, nor Gen. HURLBUT --- it secured no supplies---it did very slight damage---and the number of rebels killed, wounded and captured, was considerable, perhaps seventy or eighty in all. Its final result may be yet more disastrous to the invaders.
If the rebels had succeeded in capturing Generals Washburne, Buckland, Hurlbut and Dustan, they would have tried to hold the city long enough during the consequent confusion to obtain needful supplies, but their failure to capture any General disarranged all their plans. Their first check was at Irving Block where they stood for only a single fire of the guards, who called after them as they retreated "come back here, you sons-of-b------," but the rebels could not see it. General Dustan evinced the utmost promptitude. When the alarm was given he found eight men and marched on the double quick toward General Washburne's Headquarters, but was confronted by eighty rebels, who exchanged shots with his little company---which was marched toward Main street and received additions of several officers and some twenty federal and militia soldiers. Turning into Main street they found three hundred rebels south of them, and that they might be in position to oppose superior numbers they marched to Court Square, which could be defended against any force of cavalry that could be brought against them, but finding that they had not a sufficiency of ammunition, Gen Dustan marched to the armory of the 2d regiment E. M. D. M., where Col Bell, of the 8th Iowa, had drawn out two companies of his men. Gen Dustan's company was merged with these. Gen Buckland, who had been awakened by a colored man and had promptly turned out to confront the rebels, and then led one hundred of the soldiers thus drawn out through Third street while Gen. Dustan with eighty men, passed through Fourth street, the object being to get the rebels between two fires; but they got out by DeSoto street and were pursued to the picket lines, where they were turned over to Col. Bell, to whose command most of them belonged.
When the alarm was first given by the firing of the cannon as a signal for the militia to repair to their several armories just after the rebel check at Irving Block, the rebels took a scare. They seemed to have imagined that cannonading against them was begun at some point, and they at once commenced to retire. With the utmost promptitude the great majority of the militia repaired to their armories, and without exception evinced a cheerfulness and readiness to confront the rebels.
Under Gen. DUSTAN'S directions they with vigorous celerity tore up every bridge between the Mississippi river and Beale street over the bayou, and then erected barricades,behind which they felt confident they could successfully defend themselves. The militia of Memphis has been ridiculed and undervalued, but in this emergency it has shown the most gratifying bravery and patriotism. Officers and men without exception vied with the brave Federal soldiers in cheerful readiness to meet the enemy. Our reporters were in all parts of the city during the whole day and have not heard of a single instance in which any officer or soldier of either the regular army or the militia failed to do his duty. Gen Washburn and Gen. Buckland warmly complimented the militia, whose conduct far exceeded expectations. Gen. Dustan is enthusiastic in his appreciation of the militia, whose manner when they expected a hard fight had all the cheerful confidence of veterans. To say that the 8th Iowa and other regular soldiers did their whole duty is scant praise. Whether singly or in companies, as officers or as privates, when they confronted the rebels, they in every instance showed themselves worthy defenders of the Stars and Stripes.
The gallant Col. Bell and his command are now at the front, and they never quail before rebel foemen. A noticeable feature of this affair is the fact that the whole rebel force retreated before one hundred and eighty men under Gens. Beckland and Dustin.
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ANOTHER ACCOUNT.
The first intimation we had of the "Raiders" was firing, at intervals, in Union, Monroe, Madison and Court and Jefferson and other streets. The rebels were successful as far as entering the city, until they reached "Irving Block," where they were met by a volley from the guards at that institution, which not only emptied some of their saddles, but drove them back. While this was going on, another force surrounded the Headquarters of Major-General Washburn, and although the General was not there himself, they succeeded in going through the premises, capturing a number of the guards and clerks, and committing some other depredations. General Buckland, our district commander, was made aware of the presence of the rebels, as was also General Hurlbut and Washburn.
Gen. Dustan, commanding E. M., at the first outbreak promptly raised a small force and with others succeeded in driving the rebels until he fled the Headquarters of General Washburn, where there was gathered a large force. By this time Gen. Buckland and staff got together a portion of the 8th Iowa, (no other soldiers being in the service than this regiment) they "double quicked" down Third street, when the rebels said there's "V" coming, they sounded "boots and saddles(?)," and precipitately fled; they were partly followed by a few cavalry in that way until they reached the outer picket to where the rebels made a stubborn stand. The garrison was promptly formed, and under the auspices of our District Commander and attaches, were advanced; the cavalry did well and under such commands as Colonels Starr, Prince and (Winslow?) they were hosts in themselves.
For more than two hours the rebels fought desperately and had it not been for the determination of the Union soldiers they might have held their (??gl) now, while the forces of (illegible) were engaged at the front, south of the city. Gen. Dustan with the militia assisted by the several members of staff, were holding the north and most of the city with his forces, but it (illegible) to state that they operated in connection with the regular forces of the guard consisting of Kincaids and Woodsides, camped on that portion of the (line?).
As forces advanced (under heavy fire) and by battery "G" 2d Illinois artillery 7th Wisconsin, who did nobly, the "raiders" fell back, and by 11 o'clock were in full retreat, closely pursued by our cavalry. By 12 o'clock all was quiet on our front. To prevent a flank movement though holding our original line, a force was sent to our left, but we found thirty of our line well protected by the force camped in that vicinity, ably supplied by the militia.
During the affair some excitement existed in the city, but there was a determination written on the countenance of every loyal man (of which there was not a few), to win or die.
Great credit is due the force of the garrison and (Men?)., of this district -- they did service which will reflect credit on all engaged.
Hereafter citizens of Memphis will feel secure in our commanders and in the courageous patriotism of our troops.
The city is deeply indebted to General Buckland for the prompt, energetic, soldierly manner in which he met the emergency-not less to Gen. Washburn, whose whole conduct in this affair has been marked by sound judgement, prompt decision, fearless bravery and facility of resources. Gen. Dustan's praises are in all mouths. He is a thorough soldier, and in this crisis has done his whole duty.
Lieut. Irwin of the 8th Iowa, who was wounded by the rebel raiders, has since died. A soldier named Junk of the same regiment is said to be mortally wounded. Another private while in Beal street was fired on by the rebels, who came through Turley street and struck in the back by five shots.
Nat. Reeves, who was taken prisoner, got off, and without shoe on his feet, returned to the city.
Charles Reeves, who was wounded and is lying at Mrs. Tuft's, is reported dead.
The men who were taken prisoners by the rebels at the corner of Beal and Hernando streets escaped and are back in the city.
The body of John Stokes, the rebel who was killed at the Post office, was yesterday taken to the dead house.
It is reported that Tom. Logwood, a former resident of Memphis, was one of the leaders of the raiders.
Dr Crittenden, a well-known citizen of Memphis, and this city overhauled at the Gayoso House, but was not taken prisoner.
It is said that that one of the most efficient guides the rebels had in coming into the city, was a man who comes very frequently into the city with wagon loads of watermelons for sale.
A DESPERATE ADVENTURE.
Major W. R. Lackland, chief of pickets, started at an early hour for headquarters and the camp of the 137th Illinois Regiment on the Hernando road. He had gone half or three quarters of a mile on the Hernando road when he was informed by citizens that the enemy were just ahead.
On going farther he met one of our men who informed him that the cavalry were a little way before him. Putting spurs to his horse he rode forward and soon overtook and rode into the line which he then discovered was not our men, but the rebels in retreat. They had a number of prisoners, mostly blacks whom they were hurrying forward.
The rebels were in considerable disorder. The Negro prisoners were mainly from the 61st negro regiment. Major Lackland, when he discovered his mistake, said nothing, but spurred his horse right through the rebels lines. He had gone but a short distance, when a rebel officer made a pass at him with a sabre, which fortunately missed him, but inflicted a cut four inches long on the neck of his horse. The Major kept on trying to force his way through, and the line became greatly disordered at that place. Many of the rebels called to him to surrender, but he kept on from right to left, and not one of the rebels had the presence of mind to seize the bridle of his horse or to shoot at him. When he got through the line, he put spurs to his horse, pursued by seven rebels. Three of them soon held up, but four kept on for about 450 yards. He had to leap a deep ditch. This somewhat checked the rebels, but they kept on until a volley from seven or eight Federal Infantry on a hill, made them hold up. Just at this point, the body of the rebel Captain Lundy was subsequently found and the inference is, that he was killed by the volley that gave relief to Major Lackland.
The 137th Illinois
When the rebels came toward our pickets they seemed to have a body of picked men in front and were not perceived until within 100 yards of the pickets, who had only time to fire twice before the rebels were upon them. There were three or four hundred who rode straight forward, the others turned into the camp of the 137th Illinois, and began firing promiscuously. The men returned the fire and fell back to form, which they did promptly. They then took a (p?ed?) position and soon drove the rebels from the camp into the wood.
Part of the regiment, then, in taking a defensible position, held the State Female College. The rebels made three desperate charges, coming within four feet pf our men, but each time they were driven back in disorder.
Eleven dead rebels were found after the fight at this place, many of the rebels were wounded. The loss of the portion of the 137th in the desperate contests was seven killed and twenty wounded - some of them slightly. Nothing could be more determined than the conduct of the brave members of the 137th who participated in the fighting yesterday. The Major's horse was shot. The Quartermaster of the regiment was shot and is not probably now alive.
OTHER INCIDENTS.
Col. Barbrick of the 4th Brigade, got his men into a good position on Hornlake road, and then moved them up.
In the fight here yesterday were larger or smaller portions of the 41st Wisconsin, 8th Iowa, 108th Illinois, 113th Illinois and 137th Illinois. They all acted with the utmost coolness and heroism. No officers and men could have done their duty better than ours yesterday without a single exception. Perhaps the 8th Iowa and 137th Illinois bore the brunt of the fight. The 7th Illinois cavalry acted nobly. The coolness and bravery of the 100 day men was matter of general commendation. The small body of the 7th Illinois cavalry behaved admirably.
An officer who rode over the whole field and visited every point where fighting had taken place yesterday, says that two of the enemy were killed or wounded for each one of ours.
Captain Cook, of General Hurlbut's staff, was robbed of $2000 by the rebels, who entered his room at the Gayoso House.
A pass was found upon the body of the rebel soldier Stokes, who was killed at the post office; and it is said that he has been in and out of the lines frequently for several days past as a civilian.
The following additional prisoners were lodged in Irving Block: Lieut. J.J. Eubank, 2d Missouri cavalry: Sergeant Geo. Caldwell, 21st Tenn. Cavalry; Corporal J.C. Jones, 15th Tenn. cavalry: John Mitchell, 18th Miss. cavalry; H.C. Cawthorn, 10th Tenn. cavalry; Stokely Hayes, 2d Missouri cavalry; J.A. Croom, 2d Tennessee cavalry; V.J. Jordan, 15th Tennessee cavalry.
Col J.L. Geddes lost a valuable horse.
L.C. Hardwick and F. J. Edwards, with numerous other citizens, were lodged in the Block yesterday for the utterance of treasonable sentiments. They said they hoped Forrest would take Memphis and kill or drive out every d---d Yankee in it.
Just as Major Lackland had forced his way through the rebel lines, which he entered by mistake, he overheard a rebel captain, who was looking at him, say to his companions, "Ain't he the damndest fool you ever see?"
Peter Flanagan, residing in Union street, opposite Gen. Washburn's residence, was taken from his bed and carried off by the rebels.
Irving Block was comfortably filled last night with traitors and (secesh?) sympathizers, not wise enough to hold their tongues.
No steamboats were allowed to unload freight yesterday.
It was reported yesterday that the rebels had captured a battery, but it is entirely without foundation. They never spiked or moved a gun, and were soon driven from their vicinity.
Many blacks were yesterday clamorous to be supplied with arms and organized for home defense. One darkey asked another: "Is you afraid?" "No sah," he replied. "I haint bin scared dis day." A good many of the blacks were scared, but some of them wanted badly to fight.
Lieut.-Colonel Bell of the 8th Iowa, with portions of his own regiment and the 113th Illinois, 120 men all told, pursued the enemy down the Hernando road, skirmishing for some distance. They turned and drove the skirmishers back, and a severe fight ensued.
The rebels suffered heavily, and Col. Bell's men scarce at all. Fearing that the regiment would be surrounded and overpowered Col. Bell made a flank movement, and when he supposed he was beyond musket range he again formed a front, but a rebel volley killed Lieut. Irwin and wounded several of the men. Col. Bell's loss was altogether one killed and about 14 wounded.
A gentleman who was taken prisoner at the Gayoso House, recognized and conversed with Col. Tom Logwood, formerly of this city, by whom he was subsequently released.
The bar at the Gayoso House was not molested by the rebels. A cigar stand in the office was plundered. The safe was untouched.
Telegraphic communication between the city and Collierville was broken yesterday morning, but is now restored, and all's quiet in that direction.
One reckless rebel confiscated a fiddle, and on the retreat he played as they passed through Beal street.
A soldier, near General Washburn's Headquarters, when he found he was surrounded and unarmed, threw himself in a lot of weeds and escaped observation. While lying hid he heard three rebel sympathizers, citizens of Memphis, near him expressing their gratification at the raid, their hopes that it could be successful in capturing General Washburn, and their good wishes for the rebel cause. Last evening the three citizens were locked up in Irving Block.
John Stokes, the rebel who was killed at the Post office, was one of the squad of three or four who had just made prisoners of the guard at Gen. Grierson's Headquarters. When Stokes and his horse fell the other rebs became scared, and their prisoner easily effected his escape.
A Captain whose company is quartered some distance from his Colonel's location, when the cannon was fired last evening, hurried his men on the double-quick to the Colonel's Headquarters, and was sadly disappointed when he found there was no fighting going on. He blamed his luck, but swore he was "bound to have a hand in the next fight any how."
A rebel who had his leg shattered, begged the officer who found him not to let the negroes murder him. He seemed to be in intense fear of this, and when taken to the house of a Mrs. Jones, was very grateful. He states that he was one of Gen. Forrest's body-guards, and that Forrest has 2,500 men, all mounted and efficient.
The rebels carried off J. Pearson, one of the gentlemanly telegraphic operators, whom they found at Headquarters.
During the fighting yesterday the 8th Iowa lost 1 killed, 12 wounded, and 21 missing. The 113th Illinois had two men wounded, not dangerously. Altogether 120 of these regiments were under command of Col. Bell.
An officer who fought as well as any body yesterday, thinks that if he could have had all his regiment together he could have driven the rebels "right to hell."
At the latest accounts received last night, the rebels were some six or eight miles from the city.
MONDAY MORNING BULLETIN
BY JAMES B. BINGHAM.
MEMPHIS,
MONDAY ::::: AUGUST 22
THE REBEL RAMPAGE.
Our reporters have essayed to give pretty accurate reports of the rebel rampage in this city yesterday; their reports will be found on the next page. As far as possible, we have aimed to give everything of interest. The occasion is a suggestive one, but the scarcity of printers compel us to defer comment.
Robb. Col. T.P.
Memphis Aug. 28/64
Encloses a copy of the "Bulletin" containing account of the Rebel Raid. Reports Col Starr as in good prospects for recovery _____
File
Status
Complete
Percent Completed
100
Weight
20
Original Format
4