Chronology of the History and Movements of Company E of the 12th Wisconsin Regiment Infantry Volunteers during the Civil War--with special attention paid to Robert Bond Jr. (1819-1894)—a soldier in Company E

Chronology of the History and Movements of Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Regiment Infantry Volunteers during the Civil War.

With special attention paid to Robert Bond Jr. (1819-1894)—a soldier in Company E

Notes by William B. Bond—a proud great, great grandson of Robert Bond Jr.--December, 2013.

References:

Primary Reference: “Story of the Service of Company E: And the Twelfth Wisconsin Regiment, Veteran Volunteer Infantry, in the War of the Rebellion: Beginning with September 7^th, 1861, and Ending with July 21^st, 1865” by Hosea W. Rood; Swain & Tate Co., Publisher, Milwaukee, WI; 1893.

Note 1: Robert Bond Jr. (1819-1894) is specifically mentioned on pages 142, 146, 158, 452, and 541 of this primary reference.

Note 2: Unless otherwise noted, all page numbers that follow refer to this primary reference.

Secondary Reference:  “Wisconsin At Vicksburg: Report Of The Wisconsin-Vicksburg Monument Commission, Including The Story of the Campaign And Siege Of Vicksburg In  1863 With Especial Reference To The Activities Therein Of Wisconsin Troops” by Hosea W. Rood; Madison, Wisconsin 1914

Introduction: Robert Bond Jr. was born in London, England, July 17^th, 1819. During the Civil War, he served with Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Regiment Infantry Volunteers and when he enlisted— August 30^th, 1862—Robert was 43 years old.  Robert was “mustered out” of service on May 31^st, 1865, when he was 45 years old, due to the expiration of his term of service. He had served 2 years and 9 months in the Union army and—considering the chronology below and his age—I find his service remarkable.  I am very proud to be his descendant!

 

Those soldiers of the Union army who—as of January 5^th, 1864—had completed two years of service and who chose to re-enlist for “three years or the duration of the war” were given the designation of being called “veterans”—which was a special token of honor. In March, April and May of 1864, only veterans received $402.00 and a furlough of “at least thirty days in their home state.” Robert Bond Jr.—having enlisted August 30^th, 1862—did not have 2 years of service completed as of January 5^th, 1864, and therefore was not eligible for veteran status. And as a result, he most likely did not go home on furlough with the “veteran” soldiers. In fact there is no evidence that Robert ever went home on furlough at any time while he was on active duty.

 

There is also no evidence that Robert was wounded or suffered any major illness during the war. So it can be assumed that he participated in the events indicated in the chronology below—including the horrible events of July 21^st, 1864.

 

 I would highly encourage anyone who is interested in Robert Bond Jr., Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Volunteers, or in the Civil War in general—to read the primary reference above written by Hosea W. Rood. This book is extremely well written, is easy to read, is incredibly interesting, and really lets readers know what it was like to be a soldier during the Civil War. And it was written by a soldier who was there—Hosea W. Rood—who was enlisted in Company E at the time.

 

The chronology below is not intended as a synopsis, a summary, or a replacement for this book. The book is far too well written and stands on its own.  I could never presume that I could add or detract from its contents—it was written by “one of the boys” in 1893, and I have no right to edit. Instead, I offer the chronology below only to serve as a “quick reference” as to where Company E was and what they were doing on a particular date. And I must confess—I have had great fun in following the movements of Company E on “Google Maps” and other internet map services while preparing what is written below.  Almost all of the locations mentioned can easily be found online.

 

This year (2013), 41 letters of correspondence between Robert Bond Jr. and his wife, Sarah Ann Fisk (1823-1909), were discovered; these letters having been written while Robert was away from home fighting the Civil War. I hope this chronology will be useful in analyzing those letters and in putting them into context. Below is my chronology of Company E, 12^th Wisconsin Regiment, Infantry Volunteers—the events leading to its creation at Camp Randall, Wisconsin in October/November 1861, its service during the Civil War, and its mustering out of service on July 16^th, 1865, at Louisville, Kentucky.

 

William B. Bond—December, 2013

 

1861

April 12^th—Fort Sumpter, South Carolina is fired upon by Confederate forces which results in the start of the American Civil War. (Page 34)

April 14^th (about)—President Lincoln makes a call throughout the nation—including Madison, Wisconsin—for 75,000 men to enlist in the war effort. George E Bryant and Lucius Fairchild—both from Madison, WI—begin to recruit men for two companies of soldiers from Wisconsin. (Page 34)

April 17^th—John Gillispie commits to a 3 month enlistment in Company K of the “First Regiment, Free Wisconsin Infantry.” (Page 34)

August 21^st—John Gillispie is mustered out of service with Company K due to the expiration of his 3 month term. (Page 34)

September 7^th—October 30^th—John Gillispie joins Abraham Vanderpol and enlists in the “Wisconsin River Volunteers.” Enlistments in the company grow rapidly. Soldiers go into quarters in Delton, WI, with John Gillispie as drill-master. Officers are elected at the school house in Delton, and by October 30^th, the fully organized company consists of Captain Abraham Vanderpol; 1^st Lieutenant John Gillispie; 2^nd Lieutenant Lewis T. Linnell; 5 Sergeants, 8 Corporals; 3 musicians, 1 clerk, 1 wagoner and 81 privates—102 men total.   (Pages 35-38)

October 31^st—The Wisconsin River Volunteers depart Delton, WI, for Fort Randal in Madison, WI, where companies will be formed into regiments. The Wisconsin River Volunteers assemble at Newman’s Tavern in Delton and then march to between Topping’s store and “The Gully” where 13 “farm teams” (horse drawn wagons) are waiting. Soldiers climb aboard the wagons, and start off, crossing “The Gully” and Dell Creek; they pass Baraboo, WI, cross the Wisconsin River at “Matt’s Ferry,” and stay overnight at Lodi, WI—20 miles from Madison. (Pages 64-69)

November 1^st—Wagons take soldiers from Lodi, WI, to Madison, WI, and out to Camp Randall about a mile past the Madison Capitol Building. They arrive in the middle of the afternoon. Very soon the “Wisconsin River Volunteers” are assigned and re-named Company E of the 12^th Regiment Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers and receive their first “Army Blue” uniforms. The regiment, consisting of 10 companies and about 1000 soldiers, are commanded by Colonel George E. Bryant of Madison, Wisconsin. The regiment remains at Camp Randall preparing for army life until January 11^th, 1862. (Pages 69-73)

December—Soldiers receive their “Belgian Rifles” muskets. (Page 88)

 

1862

January (early)—Men receive their first pay:  $13.00/month for privates. Pay is in “greenbacks”—the first paper money most had ever seen. (Page 89)

January 11^th—The 12^th Regiment boards a train near Camp Randall, WI, bound for Weston, Missouri. At dark, the train stops in Chicago, Illinois, and soldiers transfer to another train bound for Quincy, IL.  (Pages 93-94)

January 12^th—Train stops in Galesburg, IL, where ladies of the town provide soldiers with food and drink. (Page 94)

January 13^th—Train arrives in Quincy, IL. Soldiers march about 22 miles along the Mississippi River to opposite Hannibal, MO. After arriving, soldiers begin chopping through ice on the river to free a ferry boat and cut a channel across the river to Hannibal. Camp is made on the river bank, and the temperature is 20 degrees below freezing. (Pages 94-95)

January 14^th—Soldiers finish chopping through ice and cross the Mississippi River to Hannibal, Missouri. They spend the night at city hall. (Page 95)

January 15^th—The 12^th Regiment marches through Hannibal, Missouri, and boards a train bound for Weston, Missouri. They arrive in Weston in the afternoon and remain there until February 15^th.  (Pages 96 and 103)

February 15^th—Leave Weston, MO, and march on the ice of the Missouri River to Leavenworth, Kansas—8 miles downriver and on the opposite side of the Missouri River to Weston.  Remain in Leavenworth until March 1^st. (Pages 103, 108, and 110)

March 1^st—Leave Leavenworth, Kansas, and begin a march south to Fort Scott, Kansas. Go into camp after an 11 mile march. (Page 111)

March 2^nd—March through heavy timber along the Missouri River and at night reach the Kansas River, camping on its banks at Wyandotte Bridge—not far from Wyandotte, Kansas. (Page 112)

March 3^rd—Leave Wyandotte Bridge, Kansas, and march through Shawneetown, Olathe, and Paoli, KS—camping on a farm on the high prairie. (Pages 112-113)

March 6^th—Arrive in Fort Scott, Kansas. The entire march was 160 miles from Leavenworth, KS. Remain at Fort Scott until March 27^th. (Page 113)

March 27^th—Leave Fort Scott, Kansas, for Lawrence, Kansas—125 miles away. (Page 113)

April 2^nd—Arrive in Lawrence, Kansas, after wading through knee deep water at Wakarusa Flats. Go into camp at “Camp Halleck”—near the river and just above the village. Remain at Camp Halleck until April 20^th. (Pages 113-114)

Spring—12^th Wisconsin becomes attached to the department of Kansas. (Secondary Reference--Page 144).

April 20^th—Begin march to Fort Riley, Kansas—105 miles up the Kansas River. The march goes by way of Tecumseh, Topeka (where the Kansas River is crossed) and Manhattan, KS. (Pages 114-115)

April 25^th—Arrive at Fort Riley, Kansas—anticipating being part of a body of soldiers that would march to New Mexico. Remain at Fort Riley until May 18^th. (Pages 117-120)

May 1^st—The Wisconsin Allotment Commission comes to Fort Riley, Kansas, and provides soldiers with pay. (Page 119)

May 3^rd—Captain Vanderpoel resigns as commander of Company E due to his age and the anticipated 800 mile march to New Mexico. Lieutenant Gillispie is promoted to Captain, and others advance in rank. Later, the New Mexico expedition is abandoned. (Page 119)

May 18^th—Begin a 125 mile march back to Leavenworth, Kansas, arriving on May 27^th. The 12^th Wisconsin puts on another “Grand Review” in Leavenworth, and remains there until May 29^th. (Pages 119-120)

May 29^th—Board steamships that take the 12^th Wisconsin down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers to Columbus, Kentucky. (Page 120)

May 31st—Get off steamships and bivouac on the shore opposite St. Louis, Missouri. (Page 120)

June 1^st—Re-board steamships and continue river journey to Columbus, Kentucky. (Page 120)

June 2^nd—Arrive in Columbus, Kentucky after 5 day steamboat trip down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. (Page 120)

June—12^th Wisconsin becomes attached to the Army of Tennessee which it remains part of until it is mustered out July 16^th, 1865. The 12^th Wisconsin is part of the 3rd Brigade, 4^th Division, Old 13^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144).

June 2^nd (about)—March from Columbus, Kentucky—by way of Union City—to Troy, Tennessee. Go into camp at the Obion River near Troy. Begin rebuilding a burned railway bridge and railroad tracks. (Page 122)

June 27^th (about)—Move south from Troy, Tennessee, towards Humboldt, TN, repairing railroad lines along the way. (Page 123)

July 8^th—Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Regiment Volunteer Infantry arrives in Humboldt, Tennessee, and initially go into camp a quarter mile west of the village in an apple orchard.  While there, soldiers guard the railway and repair railroad lines. They also serve as armed guards on the train from Humboldt TN, to Corinth, Mississippi. During this time, Captain Gillispie goes home to Wisconsin on furlough. While there, he obtains new Wisconsin recruits for Company E. Company E remains in camp at Humboldt, TN until October 5^th. (Pages 123-142)  

August  30^th—Robert Bond Jr. enlists with Captain Gillispie in Wisconsin for service in Company  E. (Page 142)

October 5^th—Company E leaves Humboldt, TN, and marches 30 miles to Pocahontas, TN, to participate in the “Battle on the Hatchie.” (Pages 144-145)

October 7^th—Company E marches with General Hurlbut’s army to Bolivar, TN. Company E is assigned to the 3^rd Division of the 17^th Army Corps. The company remains in Bolivar until November 3^rd. [NOTE: This is a different date than that given in secondary reference page 144.] Captain Gillispie and the new recruits—including Robert Bond Jr.—join Company E in Bolivar, TN. (Pages 145-146)

November 3^rd—Company E is now part of the “Army of the Mississippi” under the command of Union General Grant.  The regiment moves south to Grand Junction and LaGrange, Tennessee. (Page 149)

November 8^th—General McPherson assembles a “large force”—including Company E—and they advance in the direction of Coldwater River expecting a “skirmish” with Confederate soldiers. (Page 149)

November 10^th—Return to La Grange, TN, having not encountered the expected Confederate soldiers. (Pages 150-151)

November 28^th—March 25 miles south towards Holly Springs, MS. (Page 153)

November 29^th—Camp at Holly Springs, MS. (Page 153)

November 30^th—Move south about 9 miles—camp at Waterford, MS (Near Lumpkin Mills, MS). (Page 154)

December—The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 3^rd Brigade, 4^th Division 17^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference—Page 144) NOTE: This is a different date than that given in primary reference page 145.

December 10^th—Leave Lumpkin Mills, MS, pass through Waterford, MS, Abbeville, MS, and Oxford, MS. (Page 156)

December 12^th—Camp at Yocona Creek, MS, about 35 miles south of Holly Springs, MS. (Page 156)

December 20^th—Camp at Water Valley 8 or 10 miles south of Yocona. (Slightly more than 40 miles south of Holly Springs.) (Page 156)

December 22^nd (about)—March north—back towards Holly Springs, Mississippi—initiated by the capture of Holly Springs by Confederate soldiers. Camp at Abbeville, MS, across the Tallahatchie River. (Page 158)

December 27^th—Camp near Lumpkins Mills, MS. Remained there until January 8^th. (Page 158)

 

1863

January—The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 3^rd Brigade, 4^th Division, 16^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144.)

January 8^th—Leave Lumpkins Mills, MS, and march north towards Moscow, TN. (Page 160)

January 11^th—Arrive in Moscow, TN—about 10 miles west of La Grange, TN, and 35 miles east of Memphis, TN. (Page 160)

January 15^th—Leave Moscow, TN, and march towards Memphis, TN. (Page 161)

January 20^th—Arrive in camp at Collierville, TN—about 23 miles east of Memphis, TN. (Page 161)

February 6^th—Move about 9 miles west of Collierville, TN, to Camp Butler near Germantown Station, TN. (Page 164)

March 14^th—March to Memphis, TN, and make camp about a mile east of the city. (Page 171)

April 18^th—Move south of Memphis, TN—as part of Colonel Bryant’s expedition to engage Confederate soldiers led by Gen. Chalmers—to Hernando, MS. (Page 174)

April 19^th—Move south of Hernando, MS, to Coldwater River, MS. This is the first time Company E is under fire at close range. (Pages 174-175)

April 20^th (about)—Return to Hernando, MS. (Page 176)

April 24^th—Return to Memphis, TN. (Page 176)

May 11^th—Travel south from Memphis, TN, towards Vicksburg, MS, on the Mississippi River aboard the steamship “The Continental” (Page 177)

May 13^th—Arrive about 6 or 7 miles north of Vicksburg, MS, on the west side of Young’s Point, LA (Young’s Point is the “tongue” of land jutting out into the Mississippi River—which is part of Louisiana—west of Vicksburg, MS.) March south about 3 or 4 miles across the point and make camp opposite the lower Vicksburg batteries on the west side of the Mississippi River. (Pages 182-183)

May 14^th—March about 5 miles until about half way between Carthage, LA, (on the west side of the Mississippi River) and Warrenton, MS (on the east side of the Mississippi River)—and about 12 miles south Vicksburg, MS. (Page 183)

May 18^th—Travel south on the Mississippi River via the steamboat “Forest Queen,” to Grand Gulf, MS, on the east side of the Mississippi River. Grand Gulf is about 25 miles south of Vicksburg, MS and is a little village just below the mouth of the Big Black River--which flows into the Mississippi River. (Page 183)

June 9^th—Travel north on the Mississippi River via the steamboat “Chessman” to Warrenton, MS (on the east side of the Mississippi River)—about 7 miles south of Vicksburg, MS, and on the same side of the Mississippi River as Vicksburg. (Page 191)

June 11^th—March over a rough road to join the division led by General Lauman in the “works” (trenches) at the rear (east) of Vicksburg, MS. Become part of the “Siege of Vicksburg” and remain there fighting for the control of Vicksburg until its surrender July 4^th. (Pages 191-207)

July-- The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 3^rd Brigade, 4^th Division, 13^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144).

July 5^th—Begin march to Jackson, MS, to join Union General Sherman. (Page 208)

July 9^th—Arrive on the outskirts of Jackson, MS. (Page 209)

July 12^th—Union General Sherman has “invested” (surrounded) the city. (Page 209)

July 16^th—Confederate General Joseph E Johnson evacuates Jackson, MS. (Page 209)

July 20^th—Begin the return march to Vicksburg, MS. (Page 210)

July 23^rd—Arrive back on the outskirts of Vicksburg, MS. Make a new camp on a wooded ridge called “Magnolia Hill” (Page 210)

July 29^th—March to and make camp inside the fortifications of Vicksburg, MS. (Page 211)

August-- The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 3^rd Brigade, 4^th Division, 17^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144).

August 15^th—March to the Mississippi River and board boats that will take Company E and the 17^th Corps to Natchez, MS. (Pages 214-215)

August 16^th—Arrive in Natchez, MS. Make camp about 2 miles from the landing and just outside the city limits. (Pages 216-218)

September 1^st—Leave Natchez, MS, cross to the west side of the Mississippi River, and begin a march to Harrisonberg, LA. Camp that night on the banks of Lake Concordia, LA—about 5 miles from the Mississippi River.  (Page 221)

September 2^nd—Continue march to Harrisonburg, LA. Camp at the junction of the Tensas River and the Washita River—which come together to form the Black River, a tributary of the Red River. (Page 222)

September 3^rd—Cross the Black River to Trinity, LA, on the west side. Continue marching towards Harrisonburg, LA—which is 12 miles distant to the north. Camp in a “swampy place.” (Page 222)

September 4^th—Continue marching towards Harrisonburg, LA—anticipating an attack from the rear which never occurred.  Hear artillery firing in the direction of Harrisonburg—which turned out to be the destruction of guns at the fort by Confederate soldiers. Arrive in Harrisonburg, LA. (Pages 222-223)

September 5^th—Begin march back towards Natchez, MS. (Page 223)

September 7^th (about)—Arrive back in Natchez, MS. Make a new camp near the Quitman Mansion. (Page 223)

November 22^nd—Board the ship “Chouteau” for a trip up the Mississippi River from Natchez, MS, to Vicksburg, MS. (Page 228)

November 23^rd—Arrive in Vicksburg, MS. Spend the night on the boat. (Pages 228-229)

November 24^th—March through Vicksburg, MS, and camp near the old Confederate lines. (Page 229)

November 27^th—March to the Big Black River Bridge, MS—about 15 miles east of Vicksburg, MS. (Page 229)

December 4^th—Return march to Vicksburg, MS, with only blankets and rations—no tents. Board boats and return to Natchez, MS, arriving “about dark” in anticipation of a Confederate army attack on Natchez. Leave the boats about midnight and form a line of battle in the suburbs of the city. (Page 229)

December 5^th—No attack materializes. March into Natchez, MS, and then out in the country looking for Confederate soldiers—but they were mounted, and could not be caught. (Pages 229-230)

December 8^th—March back to Natchez, MS. (Page 230) Since tents were left in Vicksburg, MS, the company stays in an old cotton shed. (Page 330)

December 12^th—Tents and other items that had been left in Vicksburg, MS, on December 4^th arrive in Natchez, MS, and are collected. (Page 231)

 

1864

January 5^th—Midnight—Deadline for the re-enlistment of soldiers for “three years or during the war” and to be declared “Veterans”—a special token of honor. Only soldiers who had completed two years of service prior to this date were eligible to become “Veterans.” Those soldiers who became Veterans would be eligible for a bounty of $402 and a “furlough of at least thirty days in his own state.” Robert Bond Jr. enlisted August 30^th, 1862, had not completed two full years of service by this time and was therefore not eligible to become a “Veteran.” (Pages 232-237)

January 23^rd—Board boats in Natchez, MS, for a trip up the Mississippi River to Vicksburg, MS. (Pages 239-240)

January 25^th—Disembark boats in Vicksburg, MS, and march out to old campground at Hebron, MS—between the Big Black River and Vicksburg, MS. (Page 240)

February 3^rd—Leave camp and join Union General Sherman’s “Meridan Expidition” as part of General McPherson’s division for the tearing up of railroad track.  Cross the Big Black River and camp about 4 miles east of the river near Edwards Station, MS. (Page 242)

February 4^th—Continue marching, and engage the enemy at Champion Hills, MS. Confederate soldiers are driven back 5 or 6 miles. Make camp at Bakers Creek, MS. (Page 242)

February 5^th—Heavy fighting at Bakers Creek, MS. (Pages 242-244)

February 6^th—March through Clinton, MS, attempting to catch fleeing Confederate soldiers. (Page 244)

February 7^th-13^th—Arrive in Jackson, MS. After a short stay, cross the Pearl River and proceed east. Enter Morton, MS, and turn north passing through Hillsborough, MS, and Decatur, MS. (Pages 244-247)

February 14^th—After 11 days of marching, arrive in Meridian, MS—140 miles east of Vicksburg, MS (Page 247)

February 14^th-16^th (about)—“A few days were spent in destroying stores of provisions in the vicinity (Meridian, MS) and tearing up the railroad in every direction.” (Page 248)

February 17^th-19^th (about)—March on the Mobile road to Quitman, MS—25 miles south of Meridian, MS. (Page 248)

February 20^th-27^th—Begin return march to Vicksburg, MS. March to Decatur, MS, then to Hillsboro, MS, and then turn north towards Canton, MS—23 miles north of Vicksburg, MS. Camp near the crossing of the Pearl River (about half way between Hillsboro and Canton) to await  instructions. (Page 248)

February 28^th-March 2^nd (about)—March into Canton, MS, and remain in Canton encountering skirmishes with Rebels. Resupplied from Vicksburg, MS, during this time. (Page 248)

March 3^rd--March 4^th(about)--March back towards Vicksburg, MS, crossing the Big Black River and camping outside Vicksburg in Hebron, MS—same camp as twice earlier! (page 248)

March 4^th-13^th—In camp at Hebron, MS, outside Vicksburg, MS. Soldiers designated “Veterans” are told to “Pack up for Veteran Furlough.” Non-veterans must remain in camp. (Pages 250-253)

 

Veteran Furlough

March 13^th—Soldiers designated “Veterans” pack up from their camp at Hebron, MS, and march to Vicksburg, MS.  They board the steamship “Continental.” (Page 253)

March 13^th-18^th—Travel north on the Mississippi River aboard the steamship “Continental.” (Pages 253-257)

March 18^th—Steamship “Continental”—with Veteran soldiers aboard—arrives in Cairo, IL. (Page 256)

March 19^th-20^th—Travel from Cairo, IL, to Chicago, IL, aboard the Illinois Central train. (Page 257)

March 20^th—Arrive in Chicago and are taken to a building called “Soldiers Rest” where veterans receive a warm reception. After a wonderful dinner, march to the train depot and board the train for Madison, WI. (Pages 257-260)

March 21^st-March 31^st—Get off train at West Madison Depot, Madison, WI. After breakfast, march to Camp Randall to await pay and furloughs—which become available March 31^st. (Pages 260-261)

March 31^st-April 22^nd—On furlough for about 3 weeks. Take a train to respective homes. (Pages 262-263)

April—The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 1^st Brigade, 4^th Division, 17^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144).

April 22^nd-30^th—Re-convene at Camp Randall, Madison, WI. (Page 263)

April 30^th—Leave Camp Randall, Madison, WI, to return to the war via train. (Pages 263-266)

May 3^rd—10^th—Arrive in Cairo, IL, via train. Change from being attached to the 3^rd to the 4^th Division of the 17^th Army Corps. Remain in camp until May 10^th. (Pages 266-267 and 274)

May 10^th—23^rd—Board boats that will travel up the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers on the way to join Union General Sherman’s Army. Stop at Clifton, TN, and go into camp for a day or two. Leave Clifton, TN, and march to Huntsville, AL—a distance of about 100 miles—via Waynesboro, TN, Lawrenceburg, TN, Pulaski, TN, and Hazel Green, AL. (Page275-276)

May 23^rd—Veteran soldiers re-join the Non-Veteran soldiers of Company E in Huntsville, AL. Both are now together as one company again—and part of the 1^st brigade, 4^th division of the 17^th Corps of Union General Sherman’s army. (Page 269 and 276)

 

Non-Veteran Soldiers

March 13^th—April 1^st—Non-veteran soldiers remain at Camp Hebron outside Vicksburg, MS. While there, new recruits arrive. (Page 267)

April—The 12^th Wisconsin becomes part of the 1^st Brigade, 4^th Division, 17^th Corps of the Army of Tennessee. (Secondary Reference Page 144).

April 1^st—Break camp and march into Vicksburg, MS.  Board the steamship “John J. Doe”. (Page 267)

April 2^nd—Steamship “John J Doe” with soldiers aboard departs Vicksburg, MS, heading north up the Mississippi River. (Page 267)

April 8^th—Steamship “John J Doe” arrives in Cairo, IL. Make camp in Cairo, IL. (Pages 267-268)

April 11^th—Cross the Ohio River at Cairo, IL, and march about 25 miles east to Paducah, KY. (Page 268)

April 14^th—Confederate soldiers attack Paducah, KY. (Page 268)

April 22^nd—Return to Cairo, IL, and go into camp. (Page 268)

April 27^th—30^th—Board a boat bound up the Ohio River. On reaching Paducah, KY, the boat turns south, entering the Tennessee River and continues on to Clifton, TN, which is reached on April 30^th. Make camp. (Page 269)

May 5^th—11^th—Begin a march south from Clifton, TN, towards Sherman’s army in northern Georgia helping to guard 10,000 beef cattle along the way. Travel first to Pulaski, TN, and then turn south to Athens, AL. (Page 269)

May 11^th—Arrive in Athens, AL, and make camp. (Page 269)

May 17^th—March 16 miles south to Decatur, AL. (Page 269)

May 18^th—Return to Athens, AL. (Page 269)

May 19^th—20^th—Move east towards Huntsville, AL, with beef cattle. Arrive in Huntsville May 20^th. (Page 269)

May 20^th-23^rd—Remain in Huntsville, AL. Overtaken and joined by Veteran soldiers of Company E returning from furlough and moving south to join Sherman’s army. The two battalions—to which the non-veteran soldiers were assigned—are disbanded and the veterans re-join the non-veterans of Company E. Both are now together as one company again—and part of the 1^st brigade, 4^th division of the 17^th Corps of Union General Sherman’s army. (Page 269 and 276)

 

 

 

Veteran and Non-Veteran Soldiers Re-United

May24th—Remain in camp in Huntsville, AL. (Page 277)

May 25^th—Begin march to Marietta, GA, to join Sherman’s army which is confronting the Confederate army. (Page 277)

May 26^th—March 12 miles west and arrive opposite Decatur, AL, on the Tennessee River. (Page 277)

May 27^th—Cross the Tennessee River to Decatur, AL, and march 6 miles out of town to make camp.(Page 277)

May 28^th—March 15 miles south over uneven, rocky country. Camp at Somerville, AL (Near Cullman, AL). (Page 278)

May 29^th—March 12 miles over mountainous country. Confederate soldiers attack. Camp near a spring. (Page 278)

May 30^th—March 20 miles over mountains in warm weather. Camp near Warrenton, AL. (Page 278)

May 31^st—March 15 miles over poor country. Camp beside a rocky stream. (Page 278)

June 1^st—March 12 miles over mainly good roads. Camp in a valley surrounded by mountains near Will’s Creek, AL. (Page 278)

June 2^nd—Rest at Will’s Creek, AL (Page 279)

June 3^rd—March 16 miles in the rain. Camp in the mud. (Page 279)

June 4^th—March 16 miles over bad roads. Ford the Coosa River, AL.(Page 279)

June 5^th—March 16 miles over very bad roads. Camp near Rome, GA .(Page 279)

June 6^th—March 14 miles over good roads. Camp at Kingston, GA. (Page 279)

June 7^th—March 14 miles, pass through Carterville, GA (on the road from Chattanooga, TN, to Atlanta, GA). Camp by the side of the Etowah River near the railroad crossing. (Page 280)

June 8^th—March 12 miles over hard, gravelly roads. Arrive at the battle front and Union General Sherman’s army at Acworth, GA,--also known as “Big Shanty”—near Marietta, GA. (Page 280 and 283)

June 9^th—Rest at Acworth, GA—at the extreme left of the army—after a march of 300 miles. Expect a hard fight when the army approaches Atlanta, GA. (Pages 280-281, and 283)

June 10^th-11^th—Entire army moves up close to Confederate lines near Marietta, GA. Sherman’s plan is to break through between Pine and Kennesaw about 2 miles northwest of Marietta, GA. Camp at Brush Mountain, GA. (Pages 285, 294, and 335)

June 11^th--Company E joins the main army at Big Shanty, GA --near Kennesaw, GA, and 5 miles northwest of Marietta, GA. (Page 335)

June 15^th—Fight at Pine Mountain and Gilgal Church—5 miles northwest of Marietta, GA. Known as the battle of Noonday Creek. (Page 289)

June 17^th—Battle of Mud Creek (Page 292)

June 18^th—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA. About this time begin the night time construction of new “works” (trenches) closer to Marietta, GA. (Page 291 and 293)

June 20^th—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA—a cavalry battle. (Page 293)

June 21^st—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA—to the southwest. (Page 293)

June 22^nd—Battle of Kulp’s Farm, GA. (Page 293)

June 24^th—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA. (Page 293)

June 25^th—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA. (Page 293)

June 27^th—Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, GA—the great battle. (Page 293)

July 2^nd—March—at night—around Kennesaw Mountain range and move to the south. (Page 296)

July 3^rd—Company E and the 17^th Corps is located to the right of Sherman’s “late line.” Marietta, GA, is captured by Union troops. (Page 296)

July 4^th—Rest in camp. (Page 296)

July 5^th—March over hilly, wooded country and are in the line of battle all day. In late afternoon, enter a large open field with a heavy fort and strong “works” (trenches) in front—located on the far bank of Nickajack Creek very near the Chattahoochee River, GA. (About 10 miles south of Marietta, GA.) The company is under heavy attack, and Henry Fluno is killed—the first member of Company E to be killed in battle.  The company forms strong defenses on a ridge parallel to the creek. (Page 297-298)

July 6^th—10^th—Batteries keep up steady fire on enemy defenses at Nickajack Creek. Wake up on the morning of July 10^th to discover that the Confederates soldiers have abandoned the works and fort. (Page 302)

July 11^th—Company E transferred from the 1^st Brigade, 4^th Division of the 17^th Corps under General Graham to the 1^st Brigade, 3^rd Division of the 17^th Corps. (Page 302 and Secondary Reference Page 144).

July 11^th-16^th—Return to near Marietta, GA, just south of Kennesaw Mountain. (Page 308)

July 17^th—19^th—March to Roswell’s Mills on the Chattahoochee River about 12 miles east of Marietta, GA, and cross to the Atlanta, GA side of the river. March 20 miles nearly due south to Decatur, GA, about 7 miles east of Atlanta—arrive on July 19^th.  (Page 303)

July 20^th—Move out of Decatur, GA, towards the defenses on the south east side of Atlanta, GA. (Page 303 and 305)

July 21^st—The battle of Bald Hill (Also called “Leggett’s Hill”)—Company E makes a bayonet attack on Confederate defenses at Bald Hill outside Atlanta, GA. Captain John Gillispie is seriously wounded, is captured by Confederate forces, has his arm amputated, and is placed in a Confederate prison until the end of the war. Two members of Company E are killed outright; two—including Clement A Boughton (brother of Augustus Stephan Boughton who was the future son-in-law of Robert Bond Jr.)—are wounded and died of their wounds a day or two later; six are seriously wounded but survive and three are slightly wounded. Private Edwin M Truell wins the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions that day. After firing has ceased at the end of the day, “works” (trenches) are dug to fortify the position of the ground gained. (Pages 306-333)

July 22^nd—Confederate soldiers attack the position held near Bald Hill outside Atlanta, GA. Attack comes from both the front and the rear. Company E suffers no loss in either killed or wounded due to the “excellent works” (i.e. trenches) built the night before. Remain in these “works” until July 27^th. (Pages 316-320)

July 23^rd—Armistice declared between Confederate and Union forces to exchange and bury dead. (Page 318)

July 27^th—At dark, pack up and make a circuit around Atlanta, GA, to the north side—opposite the position of the night before. Confederate General Hood attacks the Union position north of Atlanta about 11:00 PM in the “Battle of Ezra Church.” (Pages 322-323)

July 28^th—Company E and the 17^th Corps are engaged in the “Battle of Ezra Church” north of Atlanta, GA. Company E has one soldier killed and two slightly wounded. (Page 323)

July 29^th—Union General Sherman’s siege of Atlanta, GA, begins. Company E and the 17^th Corps take their place in the line about two miles northeast of where they fought on July 28^th. (Page 324)

August 7^th—Lieutenant Thayer—with the men of Company E—successfully take a ridge and get “10 rods” (about 55 yards) closer to the enemy. (Page 326)

August 25^th—Union General Sherman begins action to raise the siege of Atlanta, GA. Company E is on “picket” (guard) duty. At night the regiment moves to the right and rear a short distance. (Page 328)

August 26^th—Company E sent in advance. Halt at night and wait for the regiment to catch up after marching all day. (Page 328)

August 27^th—Get up early, and halt a short distance from camp of the night before. After a rest, march 5 or 6 miles and find a corn field where there is feasting on corn. March an additional 3 miles at night. (Page 329)

August 28^th—Begin marching at 7:00AM and halt at noon at the Montgomery Railroad. (South of Atlanta, GA.) Begin tearing up railroad tracks. (Page 329)

August 29^th—Continue tearing up railroad tracks. (Page 329)

August 30^th—March to the Macon railroad (South of Atlanta, GA) and go into camp at midnight. (Page 329)

August 31^st—March to near Jonesboro, GA, station. (south of Atlanta, GA.)  Successfully support the 15^th Corp in a Confederate attack. (Page 329)

September 1^st—Company E on “picket” (guard) duty guarding the train. At night hear explosions in the direction of Atlanta, GA, which turn out to be Confederate soldiers destroying ammunition prior to their departure from Atlanta. (Pages 329-330)

September 2^nd—Confederate General Hood abandons Atlanta, GA. Atlanta falls into Union hands. Confederates abandon their front and the 17^th Corps pursues them south for 6 or 7 miles. (Pages 328 and 330)

September 3^rd—4^th—Finish making “works” (trenches) at camp. (Page 330)

September 5^th—Ordered to return to Jonesboro, GA, in the evening. (Page 330)

September 6^th—Arrive in Jonesboro, GA. March 3 miles north towards Atlanta, GA, and halt for the day. (Page 330)

September 7^th—March 5 hours north towards Atlanta, GA, in the morning. Company E on “picket” (guard) duty. (Page 330)

September 8^th—March north until noon towards Atlanta, GA, and halt at East Point, GA. (About 7 miles southwest of Atlanta.) Go into camp. (Page 330)

September 9^th—Continue marching north towards Atlanta, GA, and go into camp about 4 miles from the city. Build a good line of “works” (trenches) and form a permanent camp. (Page 330)

September 9^th—October 4^th—Remain in camp about 4 miles south of Atlanta, GA. (Page 330)

October 4^th—Ordered to pursue Confederate General Hood who was breaking up railroad communications with Chattanooga, TN. March 20 miles and camp north of the Chattahoochee River, GA. (Pages 334-335)

October 5^th—March to near Kennesaw Mountain, GA, and go into camp not far from Marietta, GA. (Page 335)

October 5^th—9^th—Remain in camp near Marietta, GA. (Page 335)

October 9^th—March to Big Shanty, GA, (near Kennesaw, GA, and 5 miles northwest of Maretta, GA). This is where Company E joined the main army on June 11^th, 1864. (Page 335)

October 10^th—12^th Wisconsin Companies A, B, and C rebuild the railroad the Confederate soldiers had recently destroyed while Company E goes on “picket” (i.e. guard) duty near Big Shanty, GA. March to Cartersville, GA, and camp for the night.(Pages 335-336)

October 11^th—12^th—Get up early and march to Allatoona, GA, (about 6 miles south east of Cartersville, GA). Continue northwest to Kingston, GA, and camp 6 miles east of Rome, GA, on the night of October 12^th. (Pages 336-337)

October 13^th—Remain at camp near Rome, GA (Page 337)

October 14^th—November 5^th—March at night northeast towards Adairsville, GA. and Resaca, GA; then west to Lafayette, GA, and Cedar Bluffs, AL. At this point Union General Sherman gives up his pursuit of Confederate General Hood and decides to turn his attention to his “March to the Sea” campaign. March southeast to Cave Springs, GA, and Dallas, GA. Next, east to Lost Mountain, GA, and Marietta, GA. And finally south to Smyrna, GA—6 miles south of Marietta, GA—where camp is made on November 5^th. On October 22^th, the original soldiers of Company E who enlisted before January 5^th, 1862—but choose not to re-enlist and become veterans—march to Chattanooga, TN, guarding Confederate prisoners along the way. These soldiers are discharged from service at Chattanooga on November 5^th. (Pages 337-341)

November 8^th—Lincoln is re-elected President and Union Generals Grant and Sherman make plans to see the war through to the end. (Pages 341-342)

November 14^th—Union General Sherman gathers all of his troops in Atlanta, GA. Company E and the 17^th Corps march down to Atlanta from Marietta, GA. (Pages 342-343)

November 15^th—Soldiers at work destroying car (railroad) shops and depots, foundries, and arsenals in Atlanta, GA. The “Burning of Atlanta” begins. (Page 343)

November 16^th—Begin marching southeast to Savannah, GA. Union General Sherman begins his “March to the Sea” campaign. (Pages 343 and 353)

November 17^th—March through McDonough, GA—about 25 miles southeast of Atlanta, GA. (Page 359)

November 18^th—March through Jackson, GA—about 25 miles south east of Atlanta, GA. (Page 359)

November 19^th—March through Monticello, GA—about 20 miles east of Jackson, GA. (Page 359)

November 20^th—March through Hillsborough, GA—about 10 miles south of Monticello, GA. (Page 359)

November 22^nd—Come to Gordon, GA—located on the railroad line from Macon, GA, to Millen, GA. Gordon, GA, is about 40 miles southeast of Hillsborough, GA, and 25 miles east of Macon, GA. The 17^th Corps is given the task by Union General Sherman to destroy railroad lines between Gordon, GA, and Millen Junction, GA—84 miles southeast towards Savannah, GA. (Page 359-360)

November 24^th—March through Toomsboro, GA—about 20 miles southeast of Gordon, GA.(Page 360)

November 26^th—Cross the Oconee River—about 10 miles east of Toomsboro, GA. (Page 360)

November 30^th—Cross the Ogeechee River—about 35 miles east of the Oconee River crossing. (Page 360)

December 3^rd—Arrive at Millen, GA—about 25 miles east from the Ogeechee River crossing. (Page 360)

December 7^th—Camp near Pooler’s Station—about 8 miles northwest of Savannah, GA. (Page 369)

December 8^th—March to “milepost 4” or Telfair Station—i.e. 4 miles from the city of Savannah, GA. Receive fire from Confederate forces in the city.  Advance an additional quarter mile, and begin a line of “works” (trenches). Union General Sherman orders the 17^th Corp “back and around to the right” where they made camp. (Pages 370-372)

December 8^th-21^st—Siege of Savannah, GA. On December 13^th, Fort McAllister is taken and Union General Sherman can receive supplies from sea. (Pages 372-374)

December 21st—January 5^th, 1865--Confederate forces evacuate Savannah, GA, and escape north to South Carolina by train. Union forces take possession of the city and numerous armaments and stores. Union General Sherman’s “March to the Sea” campaign is complete.  Company E and the 17^th Corps make camp in Savannah and remain there in camp until January 5^th, 1865. (Pages 374-388)

 

1865

January 5^th—Company E and the 17^th Corps leave Savannah, GA, for their “March through the Carolinas” campaign. March through the city of Savannah and down the Wilmington River to Fort Thunderbolt, GA, where camp is made. (Page 386 and 389)

January 6^th—Board a small vessel, steam down to the mouth of the Wilmington River, and then northward to Beaufort, SC, where camp is made. (Pages 389-391)

January 6^th-13^th—In camp at Beaufort, SC. Receive supplies from the Christian Commission.  (Pages 390-392)

January 13^th—Leave Beaufort and march about 20 miles northwest towards Pocotaligo, SC. (Page 392)

January 14^th—Arrive in Pocotaligo, SC, and capture the fort there. (Page 392)

January 15^th—March the “skirmish line” to Pocotaligo Station, SC. Then turn east to Collins station, SC. In the afternoon, return to Pocotaligo and make camp. Remain in camp at Pocotaligo for about 2 weeks. (Page 393-395)

January 29^th—March north parallel to the Salkehatchie River, SC. (Page 398)

February 2^nd—Reach the crossing of the Salkehatchie River at River’s Bridge, SC. (Page 399)

February 5th—Union General Sherman’s entire army moves towards Branchville, SC. (Page 399)

February 8^th—Reach Midway, 10 miles east of Branchville, SC. (Page 399)

February 11^th—Move towards Orangeburg, SC. Reach and go into camp at the North Edisto River, SC. (Page 400)

February 12^th—Move a mile or two down the river and prepare for a crossing. After crossing, reach Orangeburg, SC. (Pages 401-402)

February 16^th—Reach the banks of the Congaree River opposite Columbia, SC. (Page 404)

February 17^th—Cross the river and march into Columbia, SC. (Pages 404-405 and 408)

February 18^th—March northward towards Winnsborough, SC. (Page 409)

February 22^nd (Washington’s Birthday)—Pass through Winnsborough, SC. (Page 412)

February 23^rd—Reach the Wateree River, SC, and make camp. After dark, begin the river crossing. (Page 414)

February 24^th—Complete the river crossing in the morning. Continue marching north. (Page 414)

March 1^st—Make camp near Cheraw, SC. Remain in camp about 3 days. (Page 415)

March 3^rd—Pass through Cheraw, SC, and begin march to Goldsborough, NC—60 miles southeast of Raleigh, NC. (Pages 417-418)

March 4^th—Cross the Great Pedee river in South Carolina on march north. (Page 418)

March 6^th—Pass through Bennettville, SC, on march north. (Page 418)

March 8^th—Cross into North Carolina on march north. (Page 418)

March 11^th—Reach Fayetteville, NC, on march north. (Page 418)

March 15^th—Leave Fayetteville, NC, and begin march north to Goldsborough, NC. (Page 420)

March 16^th—Fight Confederate forces at Averysboro, NC. (Page 421)

March 19^th—Fight Confederate forces at Bentonville, NC. (Page 421)

March 19^th-23^rd (about)—Swing around to the Neuse River and approach Goldsborough, NC. (Page 421)

March 23^rd (about)—Enter Goldsborough, NC. Remain in camp at Goldsborough for about 3 weeks. (Pages 421-422)

April 10^th—Leave Goldsborough, NC, and begin 4 day march to Raleigh, NC—about 60 miles northwest of Goldsborough.  Travel on the roads up the valley of the Nuese. (Pages 425-426)

April 12^th (about)—Soldiers of Company E hear of Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s surrender. (Page 426).

April 13^th—Arrive in Raleigh, NC, and proceed through town in pursuit of the army of Confederate General Joseph Johnson. Make camp about 3 miles northwest of Raleigh, NC. (Page 426).

April 14^th—Begin march toward the army of Confederate General Joseph Johnson who is about 22 miles northwest of where camp was made the night before. Later in the day, soldiers of Company E hear that Joseph Johnson has asked for terms of surrender. Union General Sherman meets with Confederate General Johnson. (Pages 426-427).

April 17^th—Union General Sherman and Confederate General Johnson meet and agree to a truce. Terms of surrender are sent to Washington for approval. News reaches Company E that President Lincoln was assassinated a few days earlier on April 14^th. Soldiers make camp near Raleigh, NC. (Pages 427-428).

April 24^th—Soldiers march in a “Grand Review” through Raleigh, NC, passing Union Generals Grant and Sherman. Soldiers are notified that the truce with Confederate General Johnson has ended. (Pages  430-431)

April 25^th—Begin march northwest out of Raleigh, NC in pursuit of Confederate General Joseph Johnson. Soldiers stop at noon about 10 miles out of camp from the previous day. Make camp for the night. Some Confederate soldiers from Confederate General Johnson’s army march back towards Raleigh, NC. Under orders, these Confederate soldiers are ignored by Union soldiers. Union General Sherman receives word that Confederate General Joseph Johnson would like to meet to discuss terms of surrender. (Page 431)

April 26^th—Confederate General Joseph Johnson surrenders to Union General Sherman under the same terms that Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General U. S. Grant. Even though there were two smaller Confederate armies yet to surrender, for all intents and purposes, the Civil War was over! (Pages 431-432)

April 27^th—March back to Raleigh, NC. (Page 433)

April 29^th—Begin march to Washington D. C. by way of Richmond, Virginia. (Page 434)

May 4^th—Camp by the Roanoke River, NC. (Page 435)

May 5^th—Cross the Roanoke River, NC. Continue march and cross the border into Virginia. (Page 435)

May 7^th—Approach Petersburg, VA. Go into camp near town. (Page 438).

May 8^th—March nearly to Richmond, VA—22 miles from Petersburg, VA. Go into camp near the small town of Manchester, VA. (Page 440)

May 8^th-12^th—Remain near Manchester, VA, outside of Richmond, VA. (Page 440)

May 12^th—March across a pontoon bridge over to Richmond, VA. Begin march to Fredericksburg, VA. (Pages 441-442)

May 16^th—Arrive at the heights above Fredericksburg, VA, and continue across the Rappahannock River. Make camp for the night at a plateau beyond the river.  (Page 442)

May 17^th—Begin march towards Washington D.C. (Page 442)

May 18^th—Make camp a few miles from Washington D.C. west of Alexandria, VA. Remain resting in camp 3 or 4 days. (Pages 442-443)

May 23^rd—March around through Alexandria, VA, and go into camp about a mile or two below Long Bridge, VA. Prepare for the “Grand Review” through Washington D.C. the next day. (Page 444)

May 24^th—March across mile long “Long Bridge”, VA, and into Washington D.C. Sherman’s army—including Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers—march in the “Grand Review” through Washington D.C. Their march takes them around the Capitol Building, down Pennsylvania Avenue and past the White House. The army marches past President Andrew Johnson, members of Congress, foreign ministers, and others who observe from the front of the White House. The march continues until about 2 miles north of Washington D.C., where camp is made. Remain in camp until June 7^th. (Pages 444-449)

May 30^th—Union General Sherman issues his farewell address to his army. (Page 450)

May 31^st—Robert Bond Jr. is mustered out of service due to the expiration of his term of service. Robert remains in the Washington D.C. area until at least June 2^nd since there exists a receipt from the Adams Express Company—which is located in Washington D.C.—for something he shipped home to wife Sarah in Wisconsin on that date. How or when he returns to his home in Lyndon Station, Wisconsin, is not known. (Pages 452-453)

June 7^th—The remaining soldiers of Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers that have not been mustered out of service begin their journey to Louisville, KY. They will go by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to Parkersburg, West Virginia on the Ohio River, and then by steamboat to Louisville. The company first crosses the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry and then ascends the valley of the Potomac  to its headwaters  at the top of the highest ridge of the Alleghany Mountains. (Page 454)
June 9^th—Reach Parkersburg, West Virginia, and go into camp. (Page 455)

June 10^th—Board a steamship for the trip down the Ohio River to Louisville, Kentucky. (Page 455)

June 11^th—Pass Cincinnati, Ohio, aboard steamship bound for Louisville, Kentucky. (Page 455)

June 12^th—Reach Louisville, Kentucky, and go into camp near the river about two miles below the city. Remain there 2 or 3 days. (Page 455)

June 14^th (about)—March to a new camp on shaded ridges 2 miles east of Louisville, Kentucky. Remain in this camp over a month. (Page 455)

July 4^th—Union General Sherman bids Company E and the others in his army that had not yet been mustered out a last goodbye. (Page 459)

July 5^th—The governor of Wisconsin sends commissions (promotions) to the company. Soldiers are never mustered into their new positions because Company E is mustered out of service a few days later. (Page 459)

July 16^th—Company E is mustered out of service. (Page 459)

July 18^th—Company E receives orders to leave their camp in Louisville, Kentucky—their last camp ever—and begin their journey home to Wisconsin. March through Louisville, along the river bank to Portland, Kentucky—a little town opposite New Albany, Indiana. Cross the river to New Albany and board freight cars bound for Chicago, Illinois. (Pages 460-465)

July 20^th—Arrive in Chicago, Illinois, by freight car. Board passenger cars for Madison, Wisconsin. (Page 466)

July 21^st—Arrive in Madison, Wisconsin. Soldiers are given the option of going into camp at Camp Randal or going to their homes. Most initially stay at Camp Randall, but soon one after the other hurries away to their homes. At this point, Company E of the 12^th Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers ceases to exist. Soldiers are told their pay will be ready August 9^th. (Page 466)