Center for Archival Collections

R. H. Foord Diary - 1864

January 1864

Sunday
Jan. 3, 1864 - Went to

Sunday
School and Church - built a fire upstairs and spent the afternoon at home. Church in the evening.

Monday
Jan. 4, 1864 - Laura washed - I went up town after drawing up a barrel of water and stretched the line after dinner. I and Frank Kemp took a sleigh ride nearly to Post Town Laura laid down and slept.

Tuesday
Jan. 5, 1864 - I got a letter from Columbus & wrote one to the Provost Martial an done to Major Budd - made several calls in the afternoon, Laura and I.

Wednesday
Jan. 6, 1864 - Getting some warmer - I got a sleigh and Laura and I took a ride nearly to Blue Ball came back and called on Chenowiths had a good ride and a very pleasant time.

Thursday
Jan. 7, 1864 - I got a letter from Bert S. and one from Tom Blair Very pleasant day - called on Chenowiths and Hallie Lyons Clara has not got home yet May gave us some music and we spent a very pleasant time - went to Church in the evening.

Friday
Jan. 8, 1864 - went to the Post Office - read the news - came round home Laura had her work done we sat down and talked - went to Aunt Polly's to Tea Church in the Evening. Mr. Kendrick (Hendrick) preached.

Saturday
Jan. 9, 1864 - Very bold day - snowing some - went to Will Benets to tea Joe and Lili, Laura and I had a good time - Church in the Evening - prayer meeting and speaking.

Sunday
Jan. 10, 1864 - Sabbath School and Church after dinner - built a fire upstairs and Laura and I both wrote a letter for Harriet - Laura wrote one for Sallie Rose.

Monday
Jan. 11, 1864 - Laura washed I went up town and got a letter from Harriet and one from Tim Blair Harriet has got another little daughter. I am again made Uncle. Church in the Evening.

Tuesday
Jan. 12, 1864 - Snowing very hard - Moorehouse was here. Laura and I and Joe and Lili took a sleigh ride in Uncle John's sleigh - was very bold.

Wednesday
Jan. 13, 1864 - I got a letter from Joe Branigan and (Mart Denny) Afternoon saved Carpet Rags - night went to prayer meeting - Retired to bed early and dreamed of snakes.

Thursday
Jan. 14, 1864 - Took a Sleigh ride in Uncle John's sleigh - went all around town - stayed home in afternoon - went to Church in Evening - Brother Kendrick preached.

Friday
Jan. 15, 1864 - Charles Rooster died by accident - we went to the Baptist Church in the evening and heard Elder Knapp preach of Hell fire and brimstone.

Saturday
Jan. 16, 1864 - I went up Town and stayed awhile - came home and saved carpet rags all the rest of the day. Laura and I and Mother, Mrs. Sephart and Mrs. Crawford called.

Sunday
Jan. 17, 1864 - Went to

Sunday
School and Church. I taught Mother's class. I tried to take a nap in the afternoon but Laura would not let me sleep - went to Church in the Evening.

Monday
Jan. 18, 1864 - Received orders from Provost Marshall at Columbus - to report there in person immediately - prepared to go by the night train but the snow prevented me from starting.

Tuesday
Jan. 19, 1864 - Started by the 9 AM train - got to Dayton at 1

P.M. had to remain there till 6 in the evening before the Richmond train came. I got to Columbus at 12 O'clock and put up at the National Hotel.

Wednesday
Jan. 20, 1864 - Reported to the Provost Martial and he ordered me to my Regiment and I am not yet exchanged but I will have to go - I came down to Middletown again to spend a day or two.

Thursday
Jan. 21, 1864 - Saw Frank Kemp and made arrangements to start to the Regiment next

Monday
- together took a sleigh ride in the afternoon. Laura and I went to Church in the Eve.

Friday
Jan. 22, 1864 - Dan Bonnell came down with a sleigh and him and I took a ride around town - afternoon I stayed home with Laura. We spent a very pleasant time. Laura was working mending her dress and I was knitting.

Saturday
Jan. 23, 1864 - Spent the morning with Clark Lanes - called on Lt. (Samloughs) Saw Mr. Allison - he wants me to send (Pety's) Body home - he was killed in the Mission Ridge battle. Laura and I worked on carpet rags all afternoon.

Sunday
Jan. 24, 1864 - Attended Sabbath School - went to Church with Laura After dinner I laid down - prayer meeting at our house I went down town - came back, found Laura waiting on the front door step for me. went to Church in the evening.

Monday
Jan. 25, 1864 - Preparing to start to the Regiment - at 3 O'clock the omnibus called for me - bid my Friends all good bye, God bless them all. Left by the 4

P.M. Train - had to stay in Cincinnatti all night - put up at the Union Exchange. Farewell to Home.

Tuesday
Jan. 26, 1864 - Got up at 6 O'clock - Eat our breakfast - started to Louisville by the 7 a.m. Train. Arrived at Seymour Indiana at 12. We got dinner and changed Cars. Arrived at Louisville at 6 O'clock p.m., stayed at Nashville Hotel. Wrote to Laura

Wednesday
Jan. 27, 1864 - Left Louisville at 7 a.m. for Nashville - nothing but Soldiers on the train all going to their Regiments. Arrived at Nashville at 5

P.M. put up at the city Hotel. Frank Kemp and I took a walk around the City and went to bed at 9 O'clock, feel tired, wrote to Laura.

Thursday
Jan. 28, 1864 - Eat Breakfast at the City Hotel. Called on John Koortz and Fred Barchard at the Hospital. Frank and I eat dinner at a restaurant. Went to the Depot, saw Bill Holmes - arrived at Chattanooga after traveling all night.

Friday
Jan. 29, 1864 - Arrived at Chattanooga at 9 a.m. Found all the Boys well. Reported to Capt. Shomidue commander of the Regiment. He told me I hsould be sent back to Ohio as I was not exchanged - spent a nice time looking around the battle ground - went to the 69th. Regt.

Saturday
Jan. 30, 1864 - Capt. Shomidue gave me an order to the Provost Marshall and I received an order from Gen. Thomas to return again to Ohio - bully for me. Myself and some of the rest of the boys got up Peter Allison and took his body to the Dept and expressed it home.

Sunday
Jan. 31, 1864 - Left Chattanooga at 12 1/2 for home and Camp Chase. Traveled all night within 9 miles of Nashville. Train run off the track, we had to lay over for six hours, five lives lost. Rained very hard all night, did not get any sleep all night.

February 1864

Monday
Feb. 1, 1864 - Raining very fast this morning. I am very tired, losing so much sleep. Arrived at Nashville at 3 p.m., stayed all night at the City Hotel, retired early to bed.

Tuesday
Feb. 2, 1864 - 7 a.m. started for Louisville, cold morning, had not time to get breakfast - arrived at Louisville at 5

P.M. Stayed at the Planter Hotel, went to Woods Theater as I had no other way to amuse myself.

Wednesday
Feb. 3, 1864 - Got my transportation to Columbus by R.R., crossed the Ohio River by Ferry Boat to Jeffersonville, got my dinner here. At 2

P.M. started for Cincinnati, made connection with the Columbus Express, came up to Middletown, thought I would stay a few days here before going to Columbus. SURPRISED LAURA ** FOUND HER IN BED FAST ASLEEP.

Thursday
Feb. 4, 1864 - Called on Mrs. Allison and told her that Peter's remains were coming. She was very glad. Mr. Allison was gone away to visit his Son John. Made a kite for Tommy Charles. Lewis called to bid us good bye, he started for his Reg't.

Friday
Feb. 5, 1864 - Went up town, expected Peter Allison's remains but they did not come. I sent a dispatch to Adams at Cincinnatti. Received an answer that the remains would be here tomorrow. went to Church in the evening.

Saturday
Feb. 6, 1864 - Went over to the Depot and found the remains of Pety Allison had arrived. I came to town and Frank Rollie went over and brought it over to town. I came round home and found Laura baking pies. Went to Church in the Evening.

Sunday
Feb. 7, 1864 - Went to Jabbath School, taught Mother's Class, went to Church in the morning. Mother and Mrs. McBurny made us a visit in the afternoon, went to Gen. class and Prayer meeting to McBurney's. Church in the Evening.

Monday
Feb. 8, 1864 - Went to town and loafed till noon at Clark Faries Got a letter from Bert Shuler. Saved carpet rags all afternoon. Laura and I took a walk around town, went to Church in the evening.

Tuesday
Feb. 9, 1864 - Called on Clark Faries and loafed around town, after dinner Laura and I took a walk around town and Dublin Sound, went to the Temple and I went to Church with Mother. After the Temple was out Laura came to Church and we came home together.

Wednesday
Feb. 10, 1864 - Mother and Laura cleaned up the sitting room. Charlie and I shook the carpets then went to the Post Office. I got a letter from Mark Deny, one enclosed for Laura. Cut carpet rags all afternoon, went to Church in the evening.

Thursday
Feb. 11, 1864 - Cut Carpet Rags all morning, went down to Allisons, opened Peter Allisons coffin. Father and Mother went down to the Country and stayed all night. I went to church. Laura stayed home and kept house.

Friday
Feb. 12, 1864 - Went down to the Post Office, got no letters, came home. Annie Branigan called, saved some wood to get dinner with. Sewed carpet rags all afternoon. Father and Mother came home, went to Church in the evening.

Saturday
Feb. 13, 1864 - Spent the afternoon up town after dinner. Laura and I cut carpet rags all afternoon. Mother went out calling after Supper. I went to the Armory and drilled with the Company, came home and retired early.

Sunday
Feb. 14, 1864 - Attended Sabbath School. Laura and I went to the M.E. Church and heard the Funeral Sermon of Peter Allison preached by Brother Maharry. Nick Greenhams Funeral preached in afternoon by Brother Winans, stayed home in eve, went to bed early.

Monday
Feb. 15, 1864 - Started by 8:30 train for Columbus, remained in Dayton one hour, called on Aunt Lili but she was not at home. Arrived at Columbus at 3

P.M. came out to Camp Chase, was assigned to Company B 1st Bat. Parole Forces.

Tuesday
Feb. 16, 1864 - Very cold day, snowed all night. Fixed up our house and made tables - drew 5 days rations, cooking utensils. Wrote a long letter to Lolly, retired to bed early, did not have enough bed clothes to keep us warm.

Wednesday
Feb. 17, 1864 - Got up at 6 O'clock, was so cold could not sleep. Jeff and I built a big fire and got breakfast. Jeff fried beef and potatoes. I went to the quartermaster and drew a blanket and some socks, wrote a long letter to Laura.

Thursday
Feb. 18, 1864 - Getting warmer no faster, very cold last night. We had five blankets and our overcoats yet could not keep warm, and to get up in the night and build a fire. Jeff Manchen was busy chopping wood all day. I wrote a letter to Laura, made out a muster roll of Co. E Paroled Forces.

Friday
Feb. 19, 1864 - Did not get up till 9 O'clock. I got breakfast, got a man to cook for us now. I went to the Post Office, made out a role today for the Paymaster. Warmer today. Retire early to bed.

Saturday
Feb. 20, 1864 - I went down to Columbus and introduced Father's fruit can. I took an order for 100. Eat my dinner at a Restaurant. Came back to Camp and Jeff and I took a walk down to the toll gate and back, got a letter from Laura and one from Sylvester Clark.

Sunday
Feb. 21, 1864 - I wrote a letter to Sylvester Clark, one to Laura and one to Father. Jeff and I took a walk down the Pike. This is a splendid day. Oh how much I would like to be home with my friends, though absent then my heart is with them. Retired early to bed, Jeff got out of bed and went to eating, he said he was so hungry.

Monday
Feb. 22, 1864 - Dull morning, Jeff has gone out to chop some wood this morning he says he wants to burn some money next

Saturday
. I amused myself all day by reading, went to the Post Office expecting a letter from Laura but was disappointed, did not get any.

Tuesday
Feb. 23, 1864 - Very fine morning, busy making out a muster Roll all morning, bad beefs heart for dinner. Read all the afternoon. Jeff quit chopping wood he said he did not like to work so hard. We both went to the Post Office. No letters for either, caught in the rain, got wet through.

Wednesday
Feb. 24, 1864 - Quite cold this morning. A fire is by no means unpleasant. A man came this morning of the 35th, paroled at Chickamauga. I wrote a letter this evening to Laura and Joe. I have got a bad cold today, I got wet through last night and went out this morning with my coat off. Jeff went to the office, got two letters.

Thursday
Feb. 25, 1864 - Very pleasant morning, drew clothing and rations. Number of Paroled men came in from Richmond, Virginia. Lt. Dilworth of the 21st Ohio took Dinner and Supper with us. I wrote a letter to Mother. Came on to rain in the eve, have got a bad cold yet and cough.

Friday
Feb. 26, 1864 - In my quarters all morning busy making out Muster Roll all day. Jeff helped me with it, are preparing for muster day. Eve I went down to the Post Office and got a letter from Laura. She is going to visit Lucy Anderson. I saw Deder from the 35th he is staying at Hospital at Camp Chase.

Saturday
Feb. 27, 1864 - A.M. working on Muster roll all morning. Jeff had company to Dinner today and I eat afterwards. I was too busy at the time in war matters.

P.M. Jeff and I took a walk. I had a good wash all over tonight and Jeff too. David went down to see his widdow.

Sunday
Feb. 28, 1864 - Rained all day, Jeff and I took a walk down the Pike, met one of Jeff's friends and he came up to dinner. I was left alone all afternoon. I read awhile then wrote a letter to Laura and one to Ben Stettler. Snowed in the night.

Monday
Feb. 29, 1864 - The ground is covered with snow this morning. We was mustered for pay today. I was busy writing nearly all day. I received a letter from Joe and enclosed was one from Laura. R. W. Foord

March 1864

Tuesday
March 1, 1864 - Cold this morning, did not get up till late. Lieut. came in and said that he wanted the Roll called so I had to scramble out of bed and go down and call the roll and read the regulations to the boys. Very muddy in camp the snow is disappearing quite fast. Wrote a letter to Laura and one to Willie.

Wednesday
March 2, 1864 - I read all morning. Evening I received two long letters from Laura and one from Mart Denny. I wrote a letter to Laura tonight, a few lines retired to bed in good season. R.W.F.

Thursday
March 3, 1864 - A.M. went up to the Lieut's quarters and wrote several passes then I went down to the Sutters. A fire broke out at the rebel Head Quarters and destroyed it entirely came near destroying our Headqtr. I wrote to Laura today.

Friday
March 4, 1864 - A.M. signed the Payrolls today. I wrote a short letter to Laura. Received a letter from Laura and Mother, a good one. Oh I want to be home bad, I think I am pretty homesick but I will try and keep up good heart awhile longer, hope to go home soon, fight in cam today, good many drunken men. Made application for furlough.

Saturday
March 5, 1864 - I don't feel very well today. Snowed all night, ground white this morning. Laid down on my humble couch and read the Brother's secret all day, a novel by (Gus) Wood, a very interesting one. Rained nearly all day and very windy. Drew five days rations today. Rumor in camp that we are exchanged. Commenced to write a long letter to Laura tonight, did not get it finished. I got a letter from Pete Clark and Laura.

Sunday
March 6, 1864 - Got up at 9 O'clock, got our breakfast and then blacked up my boots, took a good wash, put on clean clothes and then say down and finished Laura's Letter. Got it done by noon. After I eat my dinner Davis and I took a walk down the Pike. I cooked supper tonight -- our cook went out to seek gal.

Monday
March 7, 1864 - Pat Berigan and Charly Foord called on me this morning. They have reenlisted. I took a walk with them. They both took dinner with me. I received two long letters tonight from Lolly one which she sent to me while at Nashville. I had a good time reading them.

Tuesday
March 8, 1864 - Jeff went down to see his brother. I wrote a letter to Laura this morning. Jake had a fight this afternoon with one of the boys, I had to separate them. Received no letters tonight, feel disappointed. Expecting the paymaster.

Wednesday
March 9, 1864 - Five day, no paymaster yet. I think it is a shame that we should be kept without pay so long. Jeff and I took a walk this afternoon. Did not get any letter tonight have the blues and am homesick, am tired of Camp Chase.

Thursday
March 10, 1864 - Very fine morning, I went down to the Post Office and then took a walk down the Pike. I wrote a letter to Laura, I have got the blues. Today the Paymaster does not come. I received two letters from Laura and one from Harry. (Gus) Cole spent the Evening with me.

Friday
March 11, 1864 - Dull morning, rain all last night. Wrote out several applications for furlough for the company. Went to the Post Office but no mail for me. Retired early to bed I don't feel well tonight. Oh for a glimpse of home again.

Saturday
March 12, 1864 - Got up early feel better this morning, had roll call. Took a little walk after breakfast, wrote this afternoon to Laura. Evening I went own to the Post Office and got a letter from my Laura Dear. Had a general wash tonight, did not go to bed till 11 O'clock, sat up and read.

Sunday
March 13, 1864 - A.M. Jeff was down to Columbus to see his brother. Jake went out to see his girl and I am alone. I wrote a good long letter to Laura. Raining all day. Went down in the Company, borrowed a novel and read all evening. My hears full of trouble and sorrow and pain
Oh when shall I see my dear friends all again

Monday
March 14, 1864 - A.M. amused myself all morning reading a novel, had a good dinner today beefsteak, eggs, potatoes. Afternoon I wrote a letter to my Lolly and also to Harriet. Very wet and disagreeable day. Sgnt. Chapin spent the evening with me. Got a letter from Loll.

Tuesday
March 15, 1864 - A.M. Snowing this morning, nothing of importance occurred today. I made out several applications for furlough for the Company. Wrote again to Loll, went to the office, no mail for me tonight.

Wednesday
March 16, 1864 - A.M. I went down to Columbus today. I feel discouraged. The paymaster has not paid us off yet. I think it is a great shame that we are treated in this manner. Got out to camp for supper. Eat my dinner at a restaurant. No mail tonight. Our cook cut his foot with an axe.

Thursday
March 17, 1864 - A.M. Jake the cook got a pass and went home. Jeff went down to town with him. We had fried chicken for breakfast this morning, a present, and fried eggs for dinner. The boys were out foraging last night. No mail tonight. Why don't Lolly write to one.

Friday
March 18, 1864 - A.M. did not arise till 9 O'clock, got our breakfast, wrote passes, then read till noon. After dinner I wrote to Lolly I got a letter this evening from Loll which did me good. I was afraid something was the matter. Thank God all is well, retired early to bed tonight.

Saturday
March 19, 1864 - Snowing and blowing this morning, very cold. Drew clothes today for the company. Jefff and Chapin went to Columbus. I went to the Post Office and no letter for me. I had a bath tonight, had an extra supper before retiring.

Sunday
March 20, 1864 - A.M. wrote all this morning, made out a new Company master roll, had a gay dinner, beef eggs and onions. I layed down to read but fell fast asleep, did not wake up till supper. Wrote a letter to Loll this evening. My furlough came thru Headqtr. I can get it when I am ready for it, feel soon to go home to my Darling Laura.

Monday
March 21, 1864 - A.M. I got up at an early hour, had roll call. Got my breakfast and took a walk, fine morning but cold. I got a letter tonight from Loll but very short. I retired early to bed to dream of loved ones at home. Nothing worthy of note today.

Tuesday
March 22, 1864 - A.M. spent the forenoon with Lieut. Warren in his quarters after which I came down and got my dinner then I wrote a letter to Joe. Went down to the Post Office and got a family letter from Company 'K' Read all evening, did not retire till 10 O'clock.

Wednesday
March 23, 1864 - Very cold morning, got up at 9 A.M. and got breakfast then I wrote a letter to Loll. Read all morning and got a big dinner of Fried beef, Onions, bread and butter. And maple molasses. Went to the Office, three letters tonight form Loll. (bully)

Thursday
March 24, 1864 - This is a beautiful morning. The 20th Ohio band played a long time. I wrote a long letter to Loll today. took a walk down the Pike with Chapin. Spent the evening with Chapin and stayed with him all night. Retired at 11 O'clock and slept bully all night, had a good bed.

Friday
March 25, 1864 - Chapin and I got up at 7 O'clock, came down to my shanty, found Jeff in bed. We pulled him out and then took a little walk till breakfast. Commenced to snow and continued all day. I wrote a letter to Jacob Gath, an old acquaintance. No mail tonight.

Saturday
March 26, 1864 - Went to the barber and got a nice clean shave. 20th Ohio band playing in Camp this morning.

Sunday
March 27, 1864 - Saw a fellow out of Co G, 35th Regt. He stayed and eat dinner with me then I took a walk. Met Nute Woods, had quite a talk with him. Saw the 88th have dress parade also the Invalid Hospital, Sgnt. Chapin and I took a walk after supper.

Monday
March 28, 1864 - A.M. Drew clothing this morning, did not get back till dinner was all over. Went to Headqtrs. and ordered my furlough. I intend to start home tomorrow. No letters from Lolly tonight, retired early to bed.

Tuesday
March 29, 1864 - A.M. got up at 6 O'clock and got an early breakfast, then packed up my wraps and got ready to start home. Came down to Columbus and left there by the 1:40 train. Got home at 8 O'clock. Found Lolly well, Father and Mother gone to Dayton.

Wednesday
March 30, 1864 - I went over to the shop with Joe and then went down to the Post Office. Saw Frank Ledman after Dinner. Loll and I made several calls, and had a good long walk around town and through Dublin.

Thursday
March 31, 1864 - A.M. took a walk around town with Jake Shaffer and talked over old times. Came around and spent the rest of the morning with Lolly.

P.M. I read awhile and Laura and I took a walk down the pike. Got a letter tonight from Tom Chase. Read all Evening. I am now going to bed.

April 1864

Friday
April 1, 1864 - This has been a very unpleasant day. Bill Boner called after breakfast. I went to the Depot with him to see him off. I had my hair cut today. Spent most of the afternoon with Lolly, went to the Hotel to see Mr. Miller this Evening.

Saturday
April 2, 1864 - A.M. I went down town this morning, waited till the mail came in. Stayed home most of the day and read to Laura. Mother came home today. Loll and I took a walk this Evening up to the Iron Bridge then I went downtown to see Mr. Miller.

Sunday
April 3, 1864 - I went with Loll to Sabbath School and Church after dinner I wrote two letters then took a walk. Went to Church in the Evening and went to sleep, could not tell much about the Sermon so it did me lots of good.

Monday
April 4, 1864 - This is Election day of Township Officers, great many folks in town today. Charly Howard and I took a walk went with Laura to get a hat. Was round to Aunt Pollies a short time. Loll and I went.

Tuesday
April 5, 1864 - Went downtown, met Frank Ledman, accompanied him to the Depot. He started for the Regt. Loll and I went out to the Chenowiths, no one at home. Called on Jones and Mrs. Munz. Loll went to the temple.

Wednesday
April 6, 1864 - Dull morning. I went down to Clark Farieses and stayed till near noon. After dinner Loll and I went down to Mrs. Shellabargers and got some cabbage. Took a walk around town after supper.

Thursday
April 7, 1864 - I went down town and waited till the mail came in. Then Loll and I made garden. After dinner we went down to Allisons and then took a walk after supper, went to the Shellabaughs.

Friday
April 8, 1864 - All went down to Aunt Susan's to spend the day. Rained nearly all day, had a pleasant time. Joe and I had to walk back in the rain but did not get very wet. Joe and I went to the Hall.

Saturday
April 9, 1864 - I went up town as usual and loafed till the mail came then came round home. After dinner Laura and I went for a walk. Evening Joe and I went up street and smoked a cigar then came around and retired.

Sunday
April 10, 1864 - Went to Sabbath School and Church. Afternoon read and took a short walk. No meeting at our Church tonight so Laura and I did not go out. I wrote a letter to Columbus. Retired early.

Monday
April 11, 1864 - Did some carpentering for Laura this morning, fixed what not. Took a walk out to Chenowiths. Gal came in to the mite society which met at our house. We had a very pleasant time. Laura and I went home with Gal Chenowith. Got a letter from Sylvester Clark.

Tuesday
April 12, 1864 - Went down to the Post Office, received a letter from the Adjutant General. I have been promoted to 1st Lieut. I wrote to the Adgt. General and made out soldiers record for Mrs. Allison. Laura and I took a walk in the Evening, wrote a letter to Tom Case. R.W.F.

Wednesday
April 13, 1864 - Laura was reading and I was keeping her company. I read to her a portion of the time and I got two letters, one from Mart Deny and one from Jeff Manahan. Took a walk down the Pike in the Evening. Retired early.

Thursday
April 14, 1864 - Laura got up early and left me snoozing in bed. I still snoozed till breakfast then I quit snoozing cause I had snoozed enough and did not want to snooze any more. Nothing of importance occurred today, took a walk in the Evening.

Friday
April 15, 1864 - A.M. Charly and walked in the garden all day. Laura brought out a lunch for us at 10 O'clock. Got up tired and I quit about 4 O'clock and felt sick. Laura gave me some medicine and I went to bed soon after Supper.

Saturday
April 16, 1864 - A.M. went to the Post Office and to the shop. Laura was there. We went to the Furniture room. Came round home, eat a cake, went out to the garden to work, took a walk. Called at Aunt Polly's. Laura helped me work in the garden in the afternoon.

Sunday
April 17, 1864 - Went to

Sunday
School and to Church. Called on Gal Chenowith in the afternoon and saw her beau. Church in the evening.

Monday
April 18, 1864 - Went up town. Earned a cigar by helping Mr. Nail lift a barrel out of his wagon. Went to the Post Office and issued out the papers. Charly Brock was not there. Stayed with Laura all afternoon, went to the Mill Society Evening.

Tuesday
April 19, 1864 - My furlough expired, I started for Columbus. Gal Chenowith came as far as Dayton with me. Got to Columbus at 3 O'clock.

P.M. Reported to Camp Chase and took charge of Company E. I wrote to Lolly, retired to bed early, very tired.

Wednesday
April 20, 1864 - I was writing all day copying descriptions of the men of Co. E Officers went to the Theatre at Columbus. Lewis and I slept together. I wrote a letter to Loll and sent 900 by mail collection from Stewart and Emery.

Thursday
April 21, 1864 - Writing all day on Clothing Rolls, had a call from some of the Boys of Middletown of the 13 Ohio Calvalry stationed at this camp. Went to the Post Office and got a letter from Loll, sent an answer to it.

Friday
April 22, 1864 - Rained all morning, wrote some today on Clothing Rolls. Paymaster came. paid me for eight months. I drew $160.00. Got a letter from Ben Stettler. Tonight slept with Lieut. Kelly tonight.

Saturday
April 23, 1864 - I got a pass and went to town - sent 150.00 to Laura. Called on Capt. Steel at the American Hotel. Went to the Theater tonight, stayed at the American Hotel tonight, retired at 12 O'clock. Got a Duplicate of my Commission. 1st. Lieut. 35th Ohio Volunteer Infantry

Sunday
April 24, 1864 - Got up at 6 O'clock, got my breakfast and saw Lieut. Warren and we got a Hack and came out to camp. I then got my dinner and sat down and wrote letters to Ben Stettler, Laura, John Sigman and Harriet. Wet day.

Monday
April 25, 1864 - Very wet day. I went down to the Office and got a good long letter from Laura. Worked all day on clothing rolls, had a box of cigars presented to me by Phil Altenbanger.

Tuesday
April 26, 1864 - A.M. still raining, I helped the Lieut. do some writing. We drew clothing today. I got a new pair of pants and shoes. Issued clothing, got a letter from Loll tonight and wrote one to her.

Wednesday
April 27, 1864 - Writing nearly all day. Bill Boner of the 35th called to see me. I went down the Pike a little way with him. He starts for the Regt. tomorrow. Saw Tom Case, got a letter from Laura. Man had snakes in his boots.

Thursday
April 28, 1864 - Jeff Manahan came back to the company, my old bed fellow. I am glad he has returned for I was lonesome. We took a walk down the Pike to the Toll gate and returned.

Friday
April 29, 1864 - Great deal of excitement in Camp this morning. Man got out of the guard house. Sintenal shot him in the back, did not kill him. Wrote a letter to Harry today, got letter from Sister Ellen and Julia.

Saturday
April 30, 1864 - (written by Jeff Manahan)
Dick Foord, ever remember your best friend, J.F. Manahan of Co. F 21st Ohio Vol. Infantry & don't forget to write to him when he becomes a Civilian. He resides at Elmore Ottawa Co., Ohio. If you will write he will answer all that comes. Hoping that you may meet with Success in all your undertakings. I am very respectfully yours at service
J.F. Manahan

May 1864

Sunday
May 1, 1864 - (written by Jeff Manahan)
This morning after breakfast Hines and I made out pay rolls until noon. I felt pretty hard but had to help finish them. This afternoon Jeff mixed up some Vinegar & butter together. I drank it and went to bed. But I do not feel any better. It is the hardest cold I have ever had.
R.W. Foord
J.F. Manahan

Monday
May 2, 1864 - I feel better this morning. I went to the Office and got a letter from Jerry Kelly and answered it. Took a walk down the Pike. Jeff and I no mail. This evening wrote to Mother.

Tuesday
May 3, 1864 - I took a notion this morning to go home so I packed up and started. Got on the 1:40 train and got home at 7 1/2

P.M. Stephen Curtis on the train. Got supper at Dayton. Surprised Laura, she did not expect me home.

Wednesday
May 4, 1864 - Went up town and saw all the folks. Came round home and spent the forenoon with Loll. She is making herself a new Gingham dress. We took a walk this evening.

Thursday
May 5, 1864 - Rained all day, I could not go out much so I contented myself by staying in the house and talking to Laura. Evening fine, Laura and I took a walk down to Shellabargers.

Friday
May 6, 1864 - This morning I put in some tomato plants and cut the grass off in the front Garden. Worked real hard then went up town and got a letter from Ben Stettler from (Rengola, Ga.)

Saturday
May 7, 1864 - Fine day, Laura and I got a horse and buggy and went down to Hamilton. We saw Joe at the camp and went up to Kennedy to dinner. Loll had some photographs taken. We started home in the cool of the evening. Got home at 9 p.m.

Sunday
May 8, 1864 - I went to S. school and taught mother's class, went to Church after dinner. I felt very unwell, had neuralgia in my fact and head, layed down on the Bed but could not sleep. Did not go out to Church tonight.

Monday
May 9, 1864 - Report in the Paper this morning that all paroled prisoners are exchanged but no official order. I shall wait till I hear before I report to Camp. I feel some better today. Loll and I took a walk this evening up the Pike.

Tuesday
May 10, 1864 - I went up town this morning and wrote to Joe. Report came that Grandmother Webster is dead. Mother and Joe went down to the funeral, very wet day. Loll and I bought $50.00 furniture for her room.

Wednesday
May 11, 1864 - The news is confirmed that we are all exchanged. I went up to Camp Chase today and reported for duty. Paymasters came and paid off the Paroled men. I did not get my pay bully for me I am no longer a Prisoner.

Thursday
May 12, 1864 - Very nice day, busy making out descriptive lists. Militia coming in. Camp Chase full of soldiers, took a walk this evening down the pike to the toll gate with Jeff Manahan.

Friday
May 13, 1864 - I feel very unwell today with neuralgia in my face. I went down to the doctors and got some medicine. Rained very fast all day, had a shave and my whiskers (Colomned). Got a letter from Laura.

Saturday
May 14, 1864 - Still raining very fast. I feel bad today, my face so swelled. Stayed in the shanty all day. Got some medicine from a quack doctor which relieved my face some.

Sunday
May 15, 1864 - I feel better this morning. The medicine did me good. I wrote all day for Lt. Kelly making out his monthly (returns). Got a letter from L tonight, alls well.

Monday
May 16, 1864 - I went to Columbus today with Sgnt. Lovejoy and had a good dinner at the American Hotel. Came out to camp after dinner, the national guards still coming into camp.

Tuesday
May 17, 1864 - Writing all day making out Lt. Kelly's reports of clothing issued. Got two letters tonight from Laura.

Wednesday
May 18, 1864 - Received positive orders to start for the field tomorrow. We are exchanged and prisoners no longer. Bully for it. I am glad of it for I am anxious to go to the Regiment again. Retired early to bed tonight.

Thursday
May 19, 1864 - Preparing to start for the Regiment. We took out cars at Camp Chase, Ohio. 12 M we were on our way. The boys nearly all got to drinking and made a good deal of noise along the road. We got to Cincinnati at 10 a.m. I put up at the Gibson House.

Friday
May 20, 1864 - Laid over in Cincinnati. I went up home and stayed for hours. Came down to the City by the last train. Laura came to the Depot to see me off. I got to Cincinnati at 10 O'clock and retired to bed at the Gibson House.

Saturday
May 21, 1864 - Got up bright and early. Mitchell and I went to the Barber and got a shave then I called to see Col. Boynton at his office Dined at the Galt house. 3 O'clock

P.M. went on to the Boat. Started for Nashville at 3 p.m., slept well all night.

Sunday
May 22, 1864 - Got up at 4 1/2 a.m. and had roll call and issued rations. Found ourselves at Louisville at 8 O'clock a.m. Making good headway, very warm day, met several boats bound for Cincinnati. Man fell overboard. Mailed a letter to Laura at Kennelton, Indiana.

Monday
May 23, 1864 - A.M. Got up at 4 O'clock, after breakfast I went on Deck and took a smoke and read the Baronet's Daughter, a very good novel. Afternoon rained, had to stay in the Cabin. Retired early tonight.

Tuesday
May 24, 1864 - A.M. This morning I found the boat landed at Smithland taking in coal, started up the Cumbe River. Very fine day and enjoyed myself very much. Stopped at Fredonia, Ky. to put off some freight. Capt. Kelly knocked one of the men down.

Wednesday
May 25, 1864 - Passed Fort Donnaldson, early wrote to Laura. Arrived at Nashville at 4

P.M. Went ashore, I put up at the City Hotel. Went to the new theater, saw George Leitch. Lt. Thompson joined us at Nashville.

Thursday
May 26, 1864 - Transferred several of our men whose Regiments were here. Took a walk around the city. Started for Chattanooga at 6

P.M. Traveled all night, no sleep, felt mad, fell off the seat when the cars started. Very tired, ruff time.

Friday
May 27, 1864 - Got to Stevenson, Ala. at 7 O'clock and bought some breakfast, cars stopped here two hours. Got to Chattanooga at 12 M. Saw John VanDerver and Mart Betz, they have a tent up here. I am going to stay with them tomorrow. Slept at the Central House tonight.

Saturday
May 28, 1864 - I got my baggage and went out to camp with Mart Betz. John VanDerver started home this morning. I went to the depot with him. Wrote a letter to Lolly this morning and took it to Chattenooga and mailed it. We have to stay here the communication with the army is cut off.

Sunday
May 29, 1864 - Mart Betz and I went down town and saw Lt. Kelly then went to the Cemetery and saw the graves of a great many of the Brave 35 Boys who fell at the Battle of Mission Ridge. Had singing this evening.

Monday
May 30, 1864 - A.M. Martin Betz and I went to town. I bought a Sword and we got some bread, peaches & tomatoes, had a splendid dinner.

P.M. took my blanket and went out to a shade tree and had a bully knap. Wrote to Laura.

Tuesday
May 31, 1864 - A.M. went to town this morning to find out what time we could start to the Regt. but cannot start yet, is no arms for us. Had quite an interesting conversation with a nigger. He told me all his private affairs. Jeff Manahan in the guard house, forged a pass.

June 1864

Wednesday
June 1, 1864 - Tearfully hot day. I went down with Thompson to Chattenooga. No news yet about leaving for the front. Reported fighting in front, wounded coming in. Saw Dock Sulphun, he is wounded in the leg. Mart Betz and I took a walk and looked over the old battlefield.

Thursday
June 2, 1864 - I went up town and got my transportation to Kingston. Saw Ben Stettler and Frank Kemp, they are both on the sick list. Rained very hard and heavy thunderstorms. I wrote a letter to Laura today. Sent her two photographs of Tom Case and Frank Kemp.

Friday
June 3, 1864 - Got up at 6 O'clock, got an early breakfast. Thompson, Swift, and myself started for Kingston Ga. Rained all day, got to Kingston at 11

P.M. Slept under the portch of the Hotel. Did not have a very interesting time, got very wet.

Saturday
June 4, 1864 - Reported to the Provost Marshall and he gave us a room to stay in at an old Hotel, went out and found our division supply train. It started out to the front today. Left Kingston at 4

P.M. Went 3 miles, camped near the Atewah River. I slept in an old log cabin. Wrote to Laura from Kingston. (Editor's Note: Ma of Georgia shows an Etowah River in the neighborhood of Kingston).

Sunday
June 5, 1864 - Raining very fast this morning. We pursued our journey. I stopped at a house to rest. (…) brought a chair for me to set out on the porch. Stormed one hour at Raccoon Creek, got dinner. Slept at Raccoon Vally. Rained all night. Mitchell and I slept on Rails and Rubber blanket.

Monday
June 6, 1864 - Got up at 5 a.m., got breakfast. I made coffee. Feel sore sleeping on the Rails last night. Marched 8 miles. Put up at a log house, cooked our supper. Thompson, Mitchell and myself slept together on the floor, very hot day.

Tuesday
June 7, 1864 - We marched nice miles today, passed through Requachi, got to Regt. at 4

P.M. Found the boys all well. I slept with Joie Branigan and Tony. Rained all night. Got a letter from Laura.

Wednesday
June 8, 1864 - This morning I and Lt. Stiles went to Acquath to meet the wagon train. We went down horseback. I was mustered into the U.S. Service today as 1st Lieut. to date from May 1st, 1864 for three years. I went on Picket tonight, nothing of importance occurred.

Thursday
June 9, 1864 - Raining this morning. I stayed up on Picket all night. Feel sleepy this morning. Henry brought my breakfast out to me. Relieved from Picket at 5 O'clock. Came into Camp, took a swim in the creek, retired early. Letter from Laura.

Friday
June 10, 1864 - This morning I took command of Comp. K. We marched four miles came upon the Rebs and had heavy skirmish all day. Rained very fast, had a glorious time wading through the mud. I took up quarters with Lieut Schaffer.

Saturday
June 11, 1864 - Moved position to the left. I wrote to Laura, rained very hard all day. Skirmished all afternoon, changed position right and left. Several times counterattacked, after night finally pitched out tents for the night and I had a good nights rest.

Sunday
June 12, 1864 - Raining very fast, got wet through while we were eating breakfast. Remained in quarters all day. Received two letters, one from Mother and Luara. This is a very miserable day, has rained without ceasing all day, skirmishing on the right.

Monday
June 13, 1864 - Still raining in torrents, got wet through last night in bed. Remained in Camp all day, cleared off in the afternoon. Skirmishing in front all day. Wrote a letter to Laura, could not send it off, no mail leaves till tomorrow.

Tuesday
June 14, 1864 - Sent Lolly's letter off today. Struck our tents at 6 O'clock and was ready to march, mobed out at 9 O'clock and skirmishes for half mile, quite a heavy fight -- we lost five men wounded Ordered to build entrenchments, fighting all night in our front. Balls flying over our Camp, not very pleasant.

Wednesday
June 15, 1864 - Got up at 6 O'clock and got our breakfast, herd heavy fighting on our left. I expect to go into a fight soon. God grant to spare my life to return home again to my Dear Wife. We moved to the front, had a heavy skirmish, lost three men wounded of the 35th, built entrenchments.

Thursday
June 16, 1864 - Was aroused this morning by heavy cannonading, our artillery opened out on the Rebs and kept up a heavy fire all day. Shelled this waggon train. We remained in our works all day. I wrote to Mother. Received two letters from my Dear wife Lolly.

Friday
June 17, 1864 - Still heavy cannonading going on. We moved out to the front advanced out lines about 300 yards under heavy fire from the Rebell Skirmishers. Threw up two lines of Earthwords. Received two letters from Laura. Stood in line of battle.

Saturday
June 18, 1864 - Raining very hard, cleared out our Camp expecting to remain, orders came to move. We marched out half mile, came on to the Rebs and threw up a line of works under a heavy artillery and musket fire. Jim Blair wounded. Sagt. Jackson killed, five others wounded of the 35th.

Sunday
June 19, 1864 - Raining as usual. Got up and found the Rebels had evacuated their works, our Skirmishers occupying them. We moved forward and came on to them on Kennesaw Mountain. Heavy fighting all day, our skirmishers suffered greatly.

Monday
June 20, 1864 - Busy all morning building earth works, heavy skirmishing going on in front, "stray balls continually flying over our camp" I wrote to Laura. All our batteries opened on the Rebs, made warm times for them on the front. They replied but a few times.

Tuesday
June 21, 1864 - Got up at 3 O'clock and formed line of battle and remained till daylight, raining very hard. Strengthened our fortifications. I wrote to Laura, no mail came today. Had a heavy artillery duel, can see the Rebs working on the mountain. Several boys wounded in Camp.

Wednesday
June 22, 1864 - Very nice morning, I commenced to write to Laura and the Rebels began to shell us. We had to be in our works all day. Shells tore up several of our tents, Dr. Sanders leg broken. We moved at dark to the right, Rebs shelled us all the way, several men in the 2nd killed and wounded.

Thursday
June 23, 1864 - We strengthened our works and put up our tents. I made up a bed in the breastworks. Rebs shelled us all day, we had to remain in our works, had a regular artillery duel. I received a good long letter from my Dear Wife & Mother. Slept in the works.

Friday
June 24, 1864 - Very hot. All quiet today along the lines, occassionally a minnie ball coming over. I wrote to Laura, Lamboghs came to the Regiment. I went down to the creek and took a good wash, slept with Joe Branigan & Tody Lechman.

Saturday
June 25, 1864 - Tearfully hot day, all is quiet along the line, very few shots fired. We fixed up a nice shade and laid in our works all day. Received a letter from Laura and answered it at once. Took a nice wash in the creek.

Sunday
June 26, 1864 - A.M. got up at 5 O'clock and stacked arms and retired again, slept till 8 O'clock and got our breakfast. Remained in the works all day, moved at 9 O'clock two miles to the right. Did not get into camp till 1 O'clock, hung myself up on the ground.

Monday
June 27, 1864 - Very hot today, we received marching orders and moved 1/2 mile to the right to support 2nd. Divis. which charged the Enemy's works but did not carry them. Our loss was quite heavy. We laid in the rear in works we strengthened our works was digging.

Tuesday
June 28, 1864 - Completed our works and put up a good shade. I wrote to Laura and received a letter from her. I burnt up all of my letters this morning. Front line very quiet today. Flag of truce came in to bury the dead heavy firing on the right after we were in bed. I got up but it soon ceased till 10 O'clock.

Wednesday
June 29, 1864 - Got up this morning at daylight and stood at arms. Our men buried their dead today under a flag of truce, no firing from either side till evening. "Wrote to Laura" this has been a very hot day. I went to the Spring and washed my shirt bully for me" Saw St. Warren & Kelly.

Thursday
June 30, 1864 - 2 A.M. was awakened by heavy firing in the front. The Rebs made an assault on our works and were beautifully repulsed the attack, lasted about half an hour, We stood in line after the firing was over, retired to bed again, remained in camp all day. At night moved half mile to the right.

July 1864

Friday
July 1, 1864 - Marching orders, packed up and moved about 300 yards into Earth works, very quiet all day, built bowers. I went in swimming, wrote a letter to Laura. Stettler & I took a walk this evening, Band played after we had all retired, was really beautiful music.

Saturday
July 2, 1864 - Very fine morning, I slept till the cook came and woke me for breakfast. Placed our company in quarters. I traded with Kelly for a blanket. Rebs threw a few shells into our Camp. Received two letters from Lolly "Jane".

Sunday
July 3, 1864 - Orders to march, Rebs evacuated their positions. We moved on after them, fighting with their rear guard all day, great many prisoners taken. We camped at night and had a glorious supper of ham. Could not sleep well, had a hard bed to lie on.

Monday
July 4, 1864 - This morning we was awakened by the band's playing, celebrating the Anniversary of Independence. Heavy cannonading in front, we were ordered to fortify. Our Brigade sent to Marietta to garrison the peace, arrived here at noon. Fixed up Camp & prepared to stay awhile.

MMS 1238 - R. H. Foord Diary Guide
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