1865 June 20: “You seemed to think the soldiers were all coming home, I am sorry to say they are not”

Edwin Levings with the 12th Wisconsin Infantry writes to one of his cousins.  The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Hd. Qrs. 3rd Div, 17^th A. C.
Near Louisville Ky, June 20^th 1865.

Dear Cousin Emma;¹

                                       Your letter of the 6^th May was rec’d near Washington, and read by me with much pleasure.  Like one awaiting the return of some long absent friend, it seemed to have been in waiting there to greet me at the end of a long, toilsome march.  Coming back from the war, my mind filled with bright visions of home and friends, the arrival of your letter was a most pleasing — incident — a compliment — an honor, as are all your letters.

And now while you are looking for “another army letter”, I gladly pen these lines, hoping they may confer as much pleasure and interest as felt by me when tracing yours.

Now that an armed foe no longer assails the Old Flag, I must write of other things than the scenes and incidents of war, and what shall they be?  My purpose was to write a short sketch of our march from Raleigh N.C. to Washington; but the thought occurs that from previous letters you must be quite familiar with the features of interest in a march, for though varied, they are much alike in each instance, and therefor I will not invite you to a perusal of what might be but little better than an old story.  I will say it was the most pleasant and agreeable march ever performed by us.  We had been detailed for Provost duty at Division Head Quarters, and being mounted on horses, with the privilege of going where we wished, had an excellent chance to see the country and the people, remaining as safeguards at the houses during the passing of the troops, and sometimes stopping over night.  Every body was  seemingly glad the war was ended.  Numerous questions were asked about the North and the Yankees, and more than once I tired with talking.  By the way would you believe it —some of the fair ones asserted their liking for the Yankees, and said they would marry the first favorable chance.  Further, some of Raleigh’s daughters actually made peace with some of Uncle Sam’s boys by marrying them.  This demonstrates conclusively that there is yet in Dixie a real love for the union.  Now who says the war was a failure, when it ended by making lovers of enemies?  A different turn of the wheel of Fortune some of the northern girls may think, and what do you suppose they will say?  The trip I shall always remember with satisfaction.  I would give some of the conversation but for the fear of spinning this out to too great a length.—While in Washington we visited all the sights.  The Patent Office, Capitol Buildings and Smithsonian Institute are the principal places of interest and are well worth going to see.  I must not attempt to say what we saw, as my letter would be too long, so you must excuse me.

You seemed to think the soldiers were all coming home, I am sorry to say they are not, that the veteran portion must remain awhile longer.  The Government determined to retain us till such time as it should be deemed prudent to disband us.  We hardly knew how to endure the disappointment, but are now somewhat resigned to the decree, hoping the “good time coming” is not far distant.  I presume we shall be held till the different States can reorganize their government and assume the control now exercised by the military authority.  So you see our going home soon is all illusion.  But I can not but think our services will not be required more than six or eight months longer.

At Washington we saw cousin Ellsworth [Ellsworth Burnett].  He looks well, and has a high reputation in his Co. and Regt.  Dwight, who lives in Alexandria, we did not see.  Myron [Myron W. Packard], in the 3oth Wis., is here on duty at the military prison as Commissary Serg’t.²—The Div. is now being paid, and a liberal percentage of furloughs granted.  We drew lots for them here, but neither of us got one.  I never was lucky at that business and don’t suppose I ever will be.  Our duty here at Hd. Qrs. is mostly pacing to and fro before the officers’ tents, saluting when necessary, or I should say, whenever you can not avoid it.  All style.  Like unto the contraband’s³ duty —”brushing the flies off from missus”.  You can guess whether that suits a Levings.  The time we must remain in the army will be long to us, and I shall have to call into exercise more than usual patience to stand it.  Now, Dear Cousin, as I have before told you, letters are the life of a soldier, in an important sense &, I hope you will let your and Cousin Louisa’s letters will come faster.  I have no idea that mine will be worthy your attention, but I shall ever be grateful for your correspondence, as having made many an otherwise lonely hour in my soldier-life happy.  I am a poor hand to ask questions where I have never been, and you will have to anticipate then for what I would say.  My letter is a sorry looking thing, and can you make out what I have said, I can not, therefore will stop writing.  May we hope to hear from you soon.  Direct via Louisville.  With my well-wishes to you, I am

 Your Cousin
.                     .Edwin

1.  Cousin Emma Eliza Levings (b. 1842), along with sisters Lottie (Charlotte Amelia, b. 1845), Hattie (Harriet Lucinda, b. 1849), and Lucy Louisa (b. 1840), were the daughters of Edwin’s and Homer’s Uncle Alpheus Hall Levings.
2.  Here are some of the male cousins.  Ellsworth Burnett was the son of Edwin’s and Homer’s Aunt Mary Levings Burnett (married Benedict R. Burnett). Myron W. Packard was the son of Edwin’s and Homer’s Aunt Amanda Levings Packard (married Daniel Packard). Dwight was probably Dwight Cornelius Packard (1829-1910), Myron’s brother and also Edwin’s and Homer’s first cousin.
3.  During the War, escaped slaves were considered contraband.

.

Edwin Levings letter of June 20, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 June 17: “I think the next class of troops that will be discharged are the veterans. . . . The Regular Army will be raised to the required number, and then we will be discharged”

Ed Levings is still feeling somewhat depressed that the 12th Wisconsin Infantry is not getting mustered out quickly.  The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Hd. 3^rd, 2nd Div. 17^th N. C.
Near Louisville Ky, June 17^th, 1865

My Dear Parents;

                                Within the last two weeks I have not written to you, but I did not forget that you were looking for a letter; and I must tell you that of late I have been rather delinquent.  I was not in the writing mood.  Vexations and disappointments combined to make me miserable, and when I attempted to write, as I did one day to you, my mind was so hampered by unpleasant thoughts about the prospects &c that I quit writing and tore up the sheet.  I saw that there was no probability that we would be discharged very soon, and this with other things, such as half rations, and ignorance as to what the government intended to do with us, made me feel anything but pleasant.  I knew you would be disappointed to hear that we must remain in service awhile longer.  I concluded the better way was not to mourn over an event I could not control, and I said I will try and be contented and remember that “there is a good time coming”, and it may not be far distant.  And yesterday we received your letter of the 4^th inst. and I perceived you had not been too sanguine about our coming home right away, and I felt better.  I then thought I could write you a letter, and now I am doing it.  Well, the men whose term of service would expire with the coming October have been mustered out, and now there is an order to muster out all whose terms of service would expire by Oct 1866,— another step toward mustering out the troops.  The government does but one thing at a time, and I think the next class of troops that will be discharged are the veterans.  I have no idea that we will be kept more than 6 or 8 months.  The Regular Army will be raised to the required number, and then we will be discharged.  The men who have longest to serve will probably be kept the longest.  The time will seem long to us, but I calculate to make as good use of it in some way, and any suggestions from you will be welcome. — Ten per cent of the men are to be immediately furloughed for twenty days, and when they return, more will be furloughed.  You need not look to see us home on a twenty day furlough — it is too short a time.  Bye and bye, a longer time might be given, when we would try and get furloughs.  Next week we shall receive pay,—one installment of bounty and eight months pay.  Of course, we know not what our future movements may be.  I think we shall be scattered about the country to aid in the enforcement of the laws where necessary, or untill the several State governments can be reorganized and can assume the place of military authority.  By that time there will be a Regular Army to do the soldiering. — We left Washington on the 7^th inst via the Baltimore and Ohio R. R. and reached Louisville the morning of the 12^th — a distance of more than 800 miles.  We took the boats at Parkersburg.¹  The terminal of the B. & O. R. R. and came down in 44 hours, coming farther (425 miles) and in less time, than on the cars.  In my next I will tell you about Washington, and our trip from here to Louisville. — We have seen the 30th boys.  They look well mostly.  John White will go home next week.

[Edwin did not sign off]

1.  Parkersburg, West Virginia, is located at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha rivers. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad reached Parkersburg in 1857, but lacked a crossing over the Ohio River until after the Civil War. When the B&O completed the Parkersburg Bridge to Belpre (1868-70) , it was the longest railroad bridge in the world.

A copy of an address, also dated June 17, 1865, was included with Edwin’s letter.  Although Edwin does not say who, it was most likely written by the general of the Third Division, Mortimer D. Leggett.

Hd. Qrs. 3^rd Div 17^th A. C.
Near Louisville K. [Kentucky] June 17^th/’65

Soldiers of the Third Division :

During the last four years you have displayed your valor and patriotism on scores of battle-fields.  Scores of times have you met the enemies of our Government in deadly conflict, and always proved victorious.  You never suffered your lines to be broken, you never attacked a position held by the enemy, which you failed to take.  You never were driven from a position which you attempted to hold.

When the history of the bloody battles and arduous campaigns in which you have been engaged shall be truthfully written, it will be said of the Old Third Division :  “It never knew defeat.—It was never late in battle, and never early out.— It never turned its back to the enemy.— It always responded to the order, ‘forward’ with a cheer, and moved without regard to the obstacles or force in its front, and stopped only when its own commander sounded the ‘Halt’.”

Of your name and record justly feel proud.  Soldiers guard well that name!  Don’t suffer any feeling of disappointment or discounted to lead you to tarnish that proud record, which, up to this date, is without a blot.

When we left N. C., our visions of home with its comforts and endearments were strong, and we all hoped, ere this, to be there.  But the Gov’t determined that it would be imprudent to so soon disband us.  Every inch of territory, lately in rebellion, is still under under under Martial Law, and while Martial Law prevails the war is not at an end, though active warfare may have ceased.  Until reorganizations takes place, & Civil Tribunals are ready to assume the control now exercised by the Military Authority, soldies [sic] will be needed, and we may justly & legally be held in service, and have no just rights to complain.

It is the expressed desire of the Govt to reduce its expenses as much and as rapidly as possible, and we may rely when being mustered out of the service at the earliest of moment deemed prudent by the authorities at Washington.

For the meantime, a liberal percentage of the men will be permitted to visit their homes on furlough, and the usual discipline must be maintained in camp.

See other Sheet.  [Ed’s letter]

1865 June 3: Homer Levings Sends a McClellan Saddle Home to Prescott

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Washington D. C. June 3^rd 1[8]65.

Dear Father and Mother

                                             There is no news to write but I thought I would scratch off a few lines to while away the time.  I expressed a box to Prescott yesterday for you, containing one McClelan [sic] saddle,¹ and a bridle which I would like to have you get, as soon as convenient.  I do not know what the express charges will be on it probably not over five dollars.  Ed has gone to the City to day.  We have not had any letters for several days.  The 15^th Corps have all gone, probably some of our Corps will start to morrow, for LouisVille [sic].  We have not been paid off yet.  I expect we will get paid at LouisVille [sic].  I would prefer to be discharged here, but I supose [sic] we will have to go to the state.  It is so warm that I do not feel like writing so I will stop.  Yours Truly, .                                                                                                                                          .Homer.

1.  The McClellan riding saddle was designed by General George B. McClellan and adopted by the U.S. Army in 1859. It remained standard issue, in various models, for the remaining history of the horse cavalry. .

Edwin Levings letter of June 3, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 May 29: Edwin Levings on The Grand Review — “The moments of that day will long linger in the memories of our boys”

A typescript copy of this letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.  Not having done it ourselves, we cannot vouch for the accuracy of the transcription.  The beginning and end of this letter are almost identical to parts of Edwin’s letter of May 27th. At this time, the 12th Wisconsin Infantry was part of the Army of the Tennessee (Oliver O. Howard), XVII Corps (Francis P. Blair), Third Division (Mortimer D. Leggett), 1st Brigade (Charles Ewing). For more details on the Grand Review, see The Prescott Journal’s article on June 3, 1865.

Washington D.C. 12th Wis. Vol. May 29, 1865

Dear Parents,

                          It has been some time since my last, but so much has transpired that I did not have the time.  You are doubtless wondering when we are to come home.  As yet there is but one order from the War Department mustering out and discharging troops, and that applies to those only whose terms of service expire prior to October 1, 1865.  Our impatience to know what the War Department has in mind for us has been great, but we are contented to wait until it shall be their pleasure to inform us.  With so many troops to be discharged, there are many minute matters to be looked after, requiring much time.  If they will simply pay and discharge us, I will abide their time, be it weeks or months.

Well, the Big Grand Reviews are over, and never was Washington in such a merry or receptive mood.  The Army of the Potomac passed in review the day before us, on the 23rd.  We were fortunate and got a chance to see them and they presented a grand sight — all had new uniforms, polished brass on their accoutrements, guns shining brightly and most of them wore white gloves. all wore white gloves.  In precision, they marched down Pennsylvania Avenue — their non-commissioned Officers wearing sabres and their band gaily decked out in spendid [sic] uniforms with bearskin hats.  Next day was our day to perform and what a comparison it will be.  We were to march as we always did — no pomp and ceremony for us.  Some of the boys were issued new pants and we did the best to shine our battle-scared guns, clothing and what little brass there was left among us.  Homer and I spent considerable time washing and fixing our steeds — at least we could do that much.  That day we all fell in, and it seemed the minute the order was given, our boys took on an appearance of glory and holiness, and they marched, oh how they marched, never before did they stride like that.  Just imagine the scene, Mother and Father, if you can !  Men marching in their old worn-out uniforms, some with new pants that stood out like sore thumbs, scuffed shoes, the guns seeming to speak out “we have seen better days,” our flags tattered and torn, and all along the way, crowds upon crowds of people, cheering so loudly they deafened our ears.  Down Pennsylvannia [sic] Avenue we proceeded, and I fancied myself a “little Napolean” [sic] on my horse — and she lived up to qualifications by prancing as if she had been trained purposely for this type of duty and performance.  Homer looked like a Roman soldier upon his stallion, presenting himselr [sic] in the best fashion to the onlookers.  General Sherman [William T. Sherman] headed the column, followed by General Logan [John A. Logan], and each Brigade, headed by its own General and Staff.  We were up front of our Brigade with General Leggett [Mortimer D. Leggett].  How proud we were.  The color bearers carried the flags that told of our conflicts with the enemy.  As we passed the reviewing stand, all eyes went right, and the boys did right shoulder arms in perfect timing.  President Johnson [Andrew Johnson] with his Government Officials, some Foreign Officers and General Grant [Ulysses S. Grant] stood up and cheered us as we passed.  I thought we would all lose some more buttons for our chests swelled up and our hearts throbbed.  On we marched and back to Crystal Springs.  Not one minute of the march did we think how hungry we were and that our breakfast had only been hardtack and coffee that morning.  The moments of that day will long linger in the memories of our boys — though they looked like a lot of Bummers, they did not feel it in the least, and I feel sure the people appreciated them all the more for it.  They know we have not had an easy time of it during this conflict, and are aware of it more now.

We do not live too well since we came to Washington.  Homer says to tell you if they don’t pay us soon there is apt to be some foraging going on right here in our Nation’s Capitol [sic], for the boys cannot live without eating.

Hold on —

There is an order this morning stopping the muster-out of any more troops in the District, and it is said we shall proceed as organizations to our respective States, there to complete the work.  There are good reasons for it.  The boys, many of them, behave rather badly, and there is no doubt that if paid off here and let loose, many would lose all their money, and many would never get home.  By the way, the Western boys do not hitch well with the Potomac chaps.  Washington is in more danger today than when defended by McClellan’s troops [George B. McClellan].  I do not mean to say our soldiers are deficient in good morals generally, but simply to say our soldiers that in the presence of so many troops of all characters, the elements are stronger, and that society is much disturbed.  [paragraph break added by UWRF Archives]

I have not been down town to see any sights.  As it has been, and is, I am on duty two hours in every eighteen and we are Camped 4 miles North of town.  As soon as I can though I mean to get down and see some of the things of interest.  It was impossible to see anything the days of the 23rd and 24th even if we had the time.  We were fortunate that General Leggett had the curiosity the day of the Potomac boys march for we would not have had the chance to see them otherwise.  Cant’ tell you any more about our muster-out and I must go to my duty.

Until next time, I am your son,        .Edwin

Grand review of Sherman’s grand army, at Washington on May 24, 1865, looking up Pennsylvania Avenue from the Treasury Buildings, image from the Library of Congress¹

1.  “Grand review of the great veteran armies of Grant and Sherman at Washington, on the 23d and 24th May, 1865. Sherman’s grand army. Looking up Pennsylvania Ave. from the Treasury Buildings, during the passage of the “Red Star” Division,” by Mathew B. Brady (New York : E. & H. T. Anthony & Co., American and Foreign Stereoscopic Emporium, 501 Broadway, 1865 May). Albumen photographic print on stereo card, cropped by UWRF Archives for this blog post. Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-stereo-1s02873 (digital file from original stereograph, front) LC-DIG-stereo-2s02873 (digital file from original stereograph, back) LC-USZ62-57018 (b&w film copy neg. of full stereo) LC-USZ62-107052 (b&w film copy neg. of half stereo, left side).

1865 May 27: Edwin Levings on the End of the War—“The work is done, and is it not well done?”

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.  The original letter is rather faint, so the copy below has been darkened so that it is readable.

Crystal Springs D. C. May 27^th 1865.

My Dear Parents ;

                                We had the pleasure of reading your letter of the 20^th inst last evening ; and it really seems clever to be in receipt of news from home in a single week’s time. —  I have taken my pen to answer, as you doubtless expect to be kept posted as to our prospects for coming home, &c.  As yet there is but one order from the War Department mustering out and discharging troops, and that applies to those only whose terms of service expire prior to Oct 7^th, 1865.  Our impatience to know the purpose of the War Dept concerning us has been great, and is yet, but we are becoming contented to wait till it shall be their pleasure to inform us.  Among so many classes of troop[s] to be discharged there are many minute matters to be looked after, requiring much time.  But if they will simply pay and discharge us, I will abide their time, be it weeks or months.  I presume we shall be served in the order of our enlistments. — There is an order this morning stopping the muster-out of any more troops in the District, and it is said we shall proceed as organizations to our respective States there to complete the work.  There are good reasons for it.  The boys, many of them, behave rather badly, and there is no doubt that if paid off here and let loose, many would lose all their money, and many never get home.  [paragraph break added]

By the way, the Western boys do not hitch very well with the Potomac chaps.  Washington is in more danger to-day than when defended by the [?] troops.  I do not mean to say our soldiers are deficient in good morals generally, but simply to say that in the presence of so many troops of all characters the elements of evil are strongr [sic], and that society is much disturbed.

I have not been down town yet.  I mean to do so as soon as possible.  As it is I am on duty two hours in every eighteen ; and we are camped 4 miles North of the town.  Ellsworth¹ was over here to see us yesterday.  He looks well.  His Div. moves camp to-day over to Alexandria.  We mean to go and see him ; also Dwight and wife who live there.  The Sanitary Commission is here bestowing its donations to the troops.  We have received some good clothing and some eatables from it.

Well, Kirby Smith has at last come to terms, so I guess we will not go to Texas nor Mexico.  The work is done, and is it not well done?  I hope that no many days will elapse ere we can meet you at home.  Write to us often, and do not look for us till you hear of our arrival in Madison.

Yours affectionately —
Edwin D. Levings

[On the back is a short letter from Homer]

Dear Father & Mother

                                          It has been some time since I have written any and I have nothing to write now, but I will try and say a few words to let you know that I have not lost all regard for you.  I went over to see Jut and Elsworth¹ [sic] the other day, they have both been to see us.  You wanted to know what we thought about selling the mare and colt.  I think you could sell them if you have not already, and the money would do you more good than they would.  There is an order not to muster out any more men.  The troops are to be sent to their States and all moustered [sic] to-gether.  I hope they will pay us off before sending us home, if they do not the soldiers will be apt to forage a little, for they can not live without eating.  Our living has been verry [sic] poor since we came to Washington.  But I must bring this to a close.

Yours Truly, Homer.

1.  Edwin’s and Homer’s cousin, Ellsworth Burnett, captain of Company F, 37th Wisconsin Infantry.

Edwin Levings letter of May 27, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 May [21]: “Now that an armed foe no longer assails the Old Flag, I must write of other things than the scenes and incidents of war”

After Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston surrendered all of the Confederate forces in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida, to Union General William T. Sherman on April 26, 1865, Sherman’s forces left Raleigh on April 30, 1865, and marched about 250 miles to Washington, D.C.  Edwin describes that march in this letter.  They marched in their usual two-wing formation: the Army of the Tennessee—which included the 12th Wisconsin Infantry—and the Army of Georgia.  Unlike their earlier marches, however, foraging was prohibited, which is why Edwin talks about guarding houses as the troops marched by.  The daily march increased from a more leisurely fifteen miles a day to almost thirty miles per day, and because of the springtime heat, many men straggled or dropped from heat exhaustion, another concern for Edwin and his brother Homer, in their Provost role.  Rumor had it that the grueling pace resulted from a bet between some of Sherman’s generals as to who would get to Richmond first.  After marching through the battlefields of central Virginia, Sherman’s troops arrived in Washington, D.C.—technically, across the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia—on May 19th.  The last “march” required of these soldiers was the Grand Review on May 24.  Edwin mentions the upcoming Review in the first paragraph, and describes it in detail in a later letter (May 29, 1865).

A typescript copy of this letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.  Not having done it ourselves, we cannot vouch for the accuracy of the transcription.  The date of the letter is obviously wrong, since the march did not end until May 19th.  More likely the date should be May 21st.

Washington D. C.  May 1st [sic], 1865.

My Dear Parents,

                                 Well, aren’t you surprised !  Here we are in Washington and are ordered to take part in a Grand Review, for which little preparation is being made.  And now while you are looking for “another army letter,” I gladly pen these lines, hoping they may confer as much pleasure and interest as felt by me when tracing yours.

Now that an armed foe no longer assails the Old Flag, I must write of other things than the scenes and incidents of war, and what shall they be?  My purpose was to write a short sketch of our march from Raliegh [sic], North Carolina to Washington, but the thought occurs that from previous letters you must be quite familiar with the features of interest in a march, for though varied, they are much alike in each instance, and therefore I will not invite you to a perusal of what might be but little better than an old story.  I will say it was the most pleasant and agreeable march ever performed by us.  We¹ had been detailed for Provost Duty at Division Headquarters, and being mounted on horses, with the privelege [sic] of going where we wished, had an excellent chance to see the Country and people.  Sometimes we remained as safe guards at the houses during the passing of the troops, and sometimes stopped overnight.  Everyone was seemingly glad the War was ended.  Numerous questions were asked about the North and the Yankees, and more than once I tired with talking.  By the way, would you believe it — some of the fair ones asserted their liking for the Yankees, and more than once I said they would marry the first favorable chance.  Further, some of Raleigh’s daughters actually made peace with Uncle Sam’s boys by marrying them.  This demonstrates conclusively that there is yet in Dixie a real love for the Union.  Now, who says the war was a failure, when it ended by making lovers of enemies?  A different turn of the wheel of fortune some of the Northern girls may think, and what do you suppose they will say?  The trip I shall always remember with satisfaction.  I would give some of the conversation, but fear I might spin this out to too great a length.

I can not think but that our required services will not be more than 6 or 8 months longer.  But I must leave you now for duty calls.

Your affectionate son,
.                                       .Edwin

1.  Edwin and his brother, Homer.

1865 April 18: Edwin Levings—The death of our beloved President saddens my heart and saddens all loyal hearts North or South

On April 10, 1865, Union General William T. Sherman resumed his Carolinas Campaign and as his troops advanced toward Raleigh, North Carolina.  Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston’s Army fell back and halted around Greensboro, where Johnston met with Confederate President Jefferson Davis.  Meanwhile, the Union and Confederate commanders received word of Robert E. Lee’s surrender on April 9 to Ulysses S. Grant.  This convinced Johnston that further resistance was futile.  Sherman’s troops reached and occupied Raleigh on April 13, and four days later, Sherman and Johnston began negotiations for the Confederates to surrender. Their preliminary agreement, which included political issues as well as military, was rejected by President Andrew Johnson.  That is why Edwin Levings thought Johnston had surrendered but then later in this letter says “I was a little too fast in stating Johnson [sic] had surrendered.”  The two commanders met again on April 26 and agreed to terms.  The surrender in North Carolina was the largest of the war with almost 90,000 Confederate troops in North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida involved.  Johnston’s surrender was the virtual end for the Confederacy, although some smaller forces held out, particularly in the Trans-Mississippi region.

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Raleigh N. C.  April 18^th, 1865.

My Dear Parents;

                                Your letter in answer to ours from Fayetteville was received yesterday.  A week has passed since I wrote you, but sooner than expected, the privilege of writing to you is again mine and I hasten to use it.

You watch the Union armies now, no doubt, as you never did before, and while rejoicing over the late great victories in Virginia that destroyed Lee’s army [Robert E. Lee] and seemed to us Richmond, and Petersburg.  You wait to hear what news from N. C., hoping for like success there; that there may be more victories to rejoice over, and that soon it can be said there is no longer a rebellion in the U. S.  The news is soon told.  Johnson’s [sic] army ], like Lee’s is no more.  After several day’s consultation with Sherman he surrendered his army; more than that, his whole Dept. which I understand to include all east of the Mississippi.  Billy [Sherman] would accept nothing less, so you see how thourough [sic] has been our work.  I suppose if Johnson [sic] had refused, a terrible battle would have ensued, when the rebels would have been converted into mince meat, for our boys will not now be trifled with by their parleyings.¹  Johnson [sic] was completely hemmed in, and saw how foolish would be a further resistance.  The army is in the best possible joyous mood over the downfall of the Confederacy and looks for a declaration of peace very shortly.  When Mobile falls what will there be for fight, except guerrillas and assassins ?  A portion of the troops may be discharged.  Some will have to remain to occupy posts, quell disturbances, and open up the country to trade and enterprise.  There will have to be an army in this country for a time, at least for among so many rough rebel characters as are now let loose, life would be endangered.

But there is one event that saddens my heart and saddens all loyal hearts North or South.  It is the death of our beloved President which occurred in Washington City at the hands of an assassin.  We rec’d the mournful intelligence night before last in silent indignation, for we saw our foe[,] despairing of success in an honorable warfare[,] resorting to the power of the assassin.  We felt the battle spirit, and if then led against the enemy, Heaven only knows how terrible would have been their punishment.  The news was official, yet it is hardly believed yet by many that he is dead.  It seems we could better lose one of our best generals than the President who has carried us under Providence through the past four years terrible experience; but this calamity we must believe will result in the more complete overthrow of our adversaries, and their cause, Slavery.

8 P. M.  It is now evening, and I will finish before bedtime.  I have been on guard at Hd. Qrs. to-day.  It seems that the Confederacy is utterly gone up—the rebel armies generally being surrendered.  I heard a staff officer say that the Trans. Miss. Dept. and troops were included in the recent surrenders.  Is it so ?  Is it true that this carnage is over.  I can not realize the fact.  It seems more like a dream.  Have we passed through this bloody ordeal of the Nation to the end, and yet safe ?  Are the proud armies of Slavery that we have so long fought with such sacrifice destroyed ?  Dear Parents I can not yet realize the fact.  We may now breathe forth the words—The End; and let us thank God who has gone before like a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night in all this long conflict.  We are beginning to talk now of coming home ere many months.  If all things work favorably, we could not expect to go home in several months; but I must not multiply words on this subject, for  they will not determine that happy hour.  We may have to accompany these rebel soldiers to their respective State Capitals where they will lay aside all arms &c. & go home.

Our duties are guarding, foraging, pitching and striking Hd. Qr. tents where required, escorting General when on the march, &c.  Homer, I think, is suited—I am certainly.  There is no excitement now—won’t my letters be prosaic now ?  If you wish to know more fully about soldiering than I can write wait till I come home.

April 19th — A word more and I will not detain the letter longer.  We are expecting to make a long march before many days,—rumor has it to Harpers Ferry.  We are getting our horses ready in anticipation by yard feeding.  Gen. Sherman tells us he hopes to have us on the homeward trip shortly.  I was a little too fast in stating Johnson [sic] had surrendered.  Arrangements have been made with him and other high rebel officials to surrender the entire Confederacy, and the proposition is now awaiting endorsement in Washington.  No more foraging now.  Raliegh [sic] is not a large place, but looks rather pretty.  The young ladies of Raliegh [sic] ride about with our soldiers, and all the people receive us gladly, rejoicing that the war is over.  I will stop—write soon as possible—direct as usual.

Edwin D. Levings

1.  A discussion or conference, especially one between enemies over terms of a truce or other matters. Comes from the French word parlez, which means to speak or talk.

Edwin Levings letter of April 18, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 April 9: “Richmond, Petersburg, guns and ironclads with them, and many thousand prisoners are now ours”

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Hd. Qrs. 3^rd Div. 17^th A. C.
Goldsboro, N. C.  April 9^th, 1865.

Dear Parents;

                          The latest letter from you is that of the 20th ult., which was received several days ago.  I must write you to-day, for to-morrow may demand my time for something else.

You may be sure that any news from home is more to us that a meal of hard tack, as you say, for I know not what can fill their place better.  But I love hard tack and think sometimes I will take a box home.  Your nice fixings might take the preference, though, for a while, but a hard tack now and then would be acceptable.  A few days more at most and we shall procure our living off the country as heretofore, though we shall not be without Government rations.

This week, doubtless, we shall move after Johnson [sic: Joseph E. Johnston].  I was up to Gen. Sherman’s Hd. Qrs. last evening and heard Col. Strong [William E. Strong], our old Major, read Grant’s dispatch from Burksville Vir. to Sherman; and I know we shall move.  Grant [Ulysses S. Grant] said he was there pushing the rebels hard, who were fleeing to their homes by thousands; that Lee was making for Danville where Jeff [Jefferson Davis] had gone — he directed Billy [William T. Sherman] to push Johnson [sic] immediately.  Uncle Billy said he was not used to speaking and would talk to us after the war was over.  If you would know what Sherman’s character is, see the April No. of Harper’s Magazine.  Richmond, Petersburg, guns and ironclads with them, and many thousand prisoners are now ours.  Does any one say Grant is not a general as well as Sherman?  I do not know but the Fourth of July will celebrate the rebellion ended.  Grant’s victory will be enough to feed the public desire like we can do something here.  What points we may make for you know as well as we, and we don’t know.

So we are now at Div. Hd. Qrs. and mounted, we can make a march with ease and pleasure.  I like the change from inftry. and hope we may remain here till the close of the war.  I have a good horse, and feed him plenty of oats ~ that is all, for there is no hay, or corn blades, this side of the rebs; but in a few days he shall have enough.  I think he has speed sufficient to soon take me beyond reach of the rebs if ever chased by them, but we do not expect to have any skirmishes.  We are learning the Cav. drill, though, to be ready for rebs if ever called upon.

I think we shall leave to-morrow morning.  I have a couple of books which I mean to mail you if possible, as I shall not find time to use them as intended.  One of them is a late work on Astronomy which I took from the Printing Office at Fayetteville.  If Cousins L or H can use them it, they it are perfectly welcome to them.  If Cousins L [Lottie] or H [Hattie] can use them, they may, for they may never be of use to us. — I must now close.  Edward Pratt is over here to see us — he is all right.

Write soon to us.

Affectionately Yours,
E. D. Levings, Co. A 12^th Wis. Vol.

Edwin Levings letter of April 9, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 April 4: “We are to draw new saddles, &c, carbines and Cavalry suits, and are to act as escort to Gen. Leggett”

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Goldsboro N. C.  April 4^th, 1865.

My Dear Parents;

                                 Yours of the 5^th and 12^th are at hand, the letter received yesterday.  I must now answer while there is opportunity, for, as you must know, a soldier’s time is not always at his own pleasure.

We were greatly surprised to hear of Jack’s reinlistment [sic].  I had supposed he would marry and settle down.  Well, he is an admirable substitute, and will honor the service and his country as he ever has.  He is not the man to withhold his service from his country, thinking he has done enough, at the time when his presence will do most good.  I would like to grasp his hand for that act.  How different such conduct from that of men who go about in the disguise of an exalted patriotism swindling towns out of their quotas of men and pocketing their money.  To such men there must come a day of retribution.

I am going to surprise you now.  Guess what has happened, if you can, — but you can not do it, so I will tell you.  We are both detailed as Provost guards at Div. Hd. Qrs. and are mounted.  The order came yesterday as we came in from picket.  We have drawn our horses and saddles and are enjoying the change greatly, you may be assured.  Our knapsacks are to be carried for us.  I understand we are to draw new saddles, &c, carbines and Cavalry suits, and are to act as escort to Gen. Leggett [Mortimer D. Leggett], who has just returned from the North with two stars on his shoulder.  If so, our duties will be light & pleasant, — a little guard duty, carrying dispatches &c.  I am as agreeably surprised as you will be when you hear of it, for, in all probability, if the Capt. had been in camp when the order came, he would have sent some sick men, only to have them ordered back.  Lt. Kelsey [Wallace Kelsey] said good healthy men, men who had always done their duties and would not disgrace their country, were wanted, and that we might go.  Of course we felt complemented and at once accepted the chance.  Homer rides a spirited white horse, I, a bay.  7 men from the Regt. were detailed and we all mess together, ~ a colored gentleman to cook for us & carry cooking utensils.

Gen. Force [Manning F. Force], our old Brig. Commander, who, in the absense [sic] of Gen. Leggett, commanded the Div., now assumes command of the 1st Div., vice Gen. Mower [Joseph A. Mower] promoted to command of the 20th A. C. [Army Corps].  The boys feel bad that Gen. Force is to leave them, for so endeared is he to them, that they believe if there ever was a real true man & Christian General he is one.  All loved him.  I love to look upon him, kind, sympathetic with the men, brave.  I shall always remember a little incident that occurred at Orangeburg. We were leaving the town,—some negro quarters were on fire and fearing the flames would reach a dwelling inhabited by some white people, we were ordered to arrest the fire.  The fire was checked, and a secesh lady, inquired of the Gen. whom she should thank, not knowing who he was.  His reply was, “That is no matter, Madam, no matter.”

Gen. Leggett is also a man of sterling worth but with him I am not so well acquainted.

The price of clothing (army) has nearly doubled, so that a man’s single outfit will cost him more than his yearly allowance $42.  Something wrong in legislation, I will send a price list soon.

We expect to draw pay shortly which you can convert in Gov’t bonds if you choose.  We received the handkerchiefs, and they are nice ; and the little tract — “Carletta.”¹  I must stop, no good light.  —Edwin

1.  “Carletta, or Going to Sing in Heaven,” Pocket Tract No. 13 (New York: Nelson & Phillips, 1800).

.

Edwin Levings letter of April 4, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls

1865 March 30: “This war is to bring us, both North and South, to a willingness to render justice to the downtrodden of our land”

The original letter is in the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO), in the University Archives and Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Goldsboro N. C. March 30^th, 1865

Dear Cousin Lottie,

Your letter of the 3^rd ult came to hand on the 25^th inst. making me glad beyond expression.  It found me just entering upon a rest from a long, weary march; and I could but think how timely the little missive, and how nice to know you sent it.

Now I will try to form an answer thereto, hoping you will not think I have forgotten, or lost any love for you as to care not to know where you are, or what you are doing.  Indeed, what made you think so?  If I love not my cousins, I love nobody, and am unworthy of love.  Yes, I am always pleased to hear from you.

And you are teaching near Maiden Rock.  The news gave one mingled feelings of surprise and regret,—regret that you are thrown among strangers.  It is pleasanter, you know, to hear of our friends from where we have been, or where we possessed some acquaintances. I hope you are not lonely, and hope you have found friends; though it does seem to me you are in a lonely place.  Perhaps it is the association of the name, Maiden Rock, that gives rise to the feeling.  Though historic with interest the place to me was always invested with a lonely grandeur.  But a cheerful, working heart is at home anywhere, and no doubt you find enough in the school room to employ your best energies, so that while you are doing good, you are also receiving it in the consciousness of having done you duty, thus bringing sunshine into you heart and leaving no place there for shadows.  How is it ? Tell me all about you experiences, for the teacher’s calling is a high and noble one

Well, you wished my opinion of the probable duration of the war.  My idea is perhaps not worth much, but I will jot it down for you with pleasure.  I always thought the Almighty had a purpose to work out in the prosecution of this war — the establishment of that great principle laid down in our Constitution, and so little regarded by us as a nation, humanity to the enslaved, or equality of human rights.  Viewed from this standpoint we must see that though man proposes, God disposes events, and that consequently the war will continue by his decree till we as a people no longer deny the oppressed their rights.  This war is to bring us, both North and South, to a willingness to render justice to the downtrodden of our land.  When we reach that step peace honorable and permanent will come.  Who can doubt that our armies backed by loyalty to this principle are to establish it throughout our beloved land.  We are not quite willing to recognize the golden rule but are fast becoming so.  We can read the signs of the times and see that progress is making toward the Rights; and we know that Peace is not far off.  You perceive I consider that obedience to this Heavenly principle is the condition of peace, and that peace will come of obedience, never without it.  Our Constitution has recently been amended so as to forever abolish slavery in the U. S.  That was a grand act.  The other day a colored lawyer was admitted to practice in in [sic] the Supreme Court of the U. S. the first instance of the kind.  Have you read the report of the interview of Sec[’]t Stanton and Gen. Sherman with the colored men of Savannah?  It is exceedingly interesting.  [Edwin M. Stanton, William T. Sherman]

I have not yet told you about our march in the Carolinas.  You must pardon me for my short account of it, as I have almost unconsciously written along forgetting what would most interest you.  Our march began from Pocotaliga S. C. Jan. 30^th, and ended at Goldsboro N. C. occupying fifty three days.  The country is all pine, sandy, and full of swamps and streams.  The two latter we were crossing every day, wading in the water and mud, so that our feet were wet nearly half the time.  Sometimes we had to wade through swamps flooded with two or three ft. of water, and the enemy in front.  This was the case at Orangeburg S. C. where our regiment by a flank movement drove the rebels, an entire brigade, out of town and captured at the Court House a large Secession flag.  We destroyed the R. Roads as we marched, and consumed all the subsistence.  There is not enough provision left the people to last them a month.  Orangeburg, a beautiful town, was burned and Columbia was mostly destroyed by the devouring elements.  We entered it the night of the 17^th Feb. the bands playing Columbia, the gem of the ocean.  Never shall I forget that night scene.  It was the determination of the soldiers never to leave the city without having first burned her to the ground.  There she was, a beautiful city, wealthy and populous, but in her was passed the first Ordinance of Secession, and in her shot and shell had been molded for the destruction of the glorious Union, and now she must be punished.  The wind blew strongly, the flames leaped wildly over the fair city, for the curse of God was upon her.  Thousands of soldiers thronged the streets and buildings appropriating their contents, while citizens rushed along the pavements in terror, the women in their fine dresses of silk, surrounded with furniture, valuables, and their servants, imploringly besought beseeching us to protect their property.  But there was no help for it.  In the morning the sun shone upon a ruined city.  We then destroyed the R. Roads northward, directing our march to Cheraw, on the Great Peedee [Pee Dee] River, where we captured a lot of artillery.  Then we marched rapidly to Fayetteville, communicating there with our fleet and loading up with a little hard tack &c.  Goldsboro was not aimed at, and after several hard battles with Johnson’s [sic] forces, we reached the place [Joseph E. Johnston].  The final battle was fought on the 21st inst. 20 miles west of here, when we overpowered the concentrated forces of the rebels, 35,000, and drove them in disorder across the Neuse River.  Their loss was heavy, they playing their old game of charging our works before completed.  Our loss I do not know.  The loss of my Regt. was 3 wounded in Co. H.¹  My Co. lost one man mortally wounded while foraging.²  We lived well most of the way.

Cousins Louisa & Emma say they have not heard from you in a long time.  We had letters from them the other day.  Cousin Ellsworth [Ellsworth Burnett] is Capt. of the Pioneer Corps.  The peach & plum trees are in blossom.  How is it up there?  You will soon be back at R. F.—will you not write a long letter, pardoning me for this rambling, dull scrawl?  It is now sundown, and are you not glad?  But I will say Good night.

Edwin

1.  Company H’s John Aspenwall, from Weyauwega (right arm amputated), and Mathias Feldhausen, from Wrightstown, are listed in the official roster as being wounded at Bentonville, N.C.
2.  John Ducy, from Moscow, died March 21, 1865, from wounds received at Bentonville.

Edwin Levings letter of March 30, 1865, from the Edwin D. Levings Papers (River Falls Mss BO) in the University Archives & Area Research Center at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls