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1864 Diary of Private Octave Bruso, 50th NY Engineers, Company E

Edited by Tom Bauerle, Buffalo, NY, 2010.

Octave Bruso 1837-1897

Enlisted, December 8, 1862, at Buffalo; mustered in as private, Co. E, December 8, 1862, to serve three years; promoted corporal, February 1, 1863; sergeant, December 27, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as Octave Vruso.

Sent to Mrs. Jack MacMillan, St. Andrews West, Ontario

By Mrs. C.T. Easton, Marietta, NY

(Editor: Mrs. Easton was the daughter of Octave A. Bruso, a son of Octave Bruso)

About this work...

To the reader: in this diary the words "received" and "pleasant" were misspelled by Octave Bruso on a regular basis. Therefore, no "sic" notation is made for these consistent errors.

Also, Octave corresponded frequently with businesses with apparent names like Schneider, and Shellington and others. The exact spelling of these companies will need to be researched, as surnames or business names in Mr. Bruso's hand are very difficult to decipher.

There are perhaps half a dozen doodles in parts of this diary, which appear to have been made by children and which have no historical significance.

Where Octave mentions fellow soldiers, I have turned to the Annual Report of the Adjutant-General of the State of New York for the Year 1898 (Registers of the First, Fifteenth and Fiftieth Engineers, and First Battalion of Sharpshooters, Serial No. 16, Wynkoop Hallenbeck Crawford CO, State Printers, New York and Albany, 1899) for additional information on the men with whom Octave served.

Hereafter this work will be cited as the Report of the Adjutant General.

I have attempted to credit all photographs and notes that are not my own. Any errors or omissions in attribution are keenly regretted, and will be corrected upon notification. This has been a project of research, and was not undertaken for any pecuniary gain.

My goal in sharing my ancestor's diary is simply to share the day-to-day life of a member of Company E of the 50th N.Y. Engineers with those who have an interest.

Other researchers will please credit this work as "1864 Diary of Private Octave Bruso,

50th NY Engineers, Company E" edited by Tom Bauerle, Buffalo, NY, 2010."

Non-commercial researchers are free to use portions of this work as they wish. Copies of this diary will be sent to libraries in Buffalo and elsewhere to assist other researchers. It is my hope that a Civil War era photograph of Octave and Company E will surface.

I would be doing a disservice without acknowledging my late uncle, Donald Bruso, upon whose excellent research I have tried to build over the years. Also, thanks to my dear brother Richard G. "Dick" Bauerle who engendered and fostered in his little brother a love of history.

It may interest the reader to know how this diary ended up in my hands.

I frequently visit the Bruso plot at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, NY. On Saturday November 14, 2009, I was seated upon Octave's gravestone and said out loud: "Octave, why didn't you leave a diary of your Civil War service, like so many others?"

I told no one about this one-way conversation.

The following Monday, I received an e-mail from my brother Richard stating that while he rarely did so, he had just used an internet search engine and searched for "Octave Bruso."

The first listing was for an item from Heritage Auction Galleries:

Lot

57593

Diary of Union Private Octave Bruso of the 50th New York Engineers.... (Total: 1 Items)Auction: 2009 December Signature Arms & Militaria Including Civil War Auction #6021

Description:“Diary of Union Private Octave Bruso of the 50th New York Engineers. Entries from January 23, 1864, through January 16, 1865, recording experiences at the battles of the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, and Petersburg. On May 6, 1864, Bruso writes about fighting at the Battle of the Wilderness: "In line of Battle on the north side of Mine River. Terrible fighting on the early part of the day. Behind the Breast works all day. Made Pits. One man of Co. E. Wounded. . . . layed in Pits for 24 Hours." Bruso spent the next several weeks marching, "Building Roads & Bridges", and witnessing nearby fighting. On June 1, 1864, he writes, "Arrived at Cole [Cold] Harbor at 2 P.M. Marched hard and almost

bushed. A most terrible battle was fought and we had to leave our place of nest double quick." Between battles, he watched "A Negro publicly hung at 6th C[orps] for committing adultery on a white woman." Near Petersburg on July 30, 1864, he writes, "Petersburg Seiged at 4 ½ a.m. Terrible artillery and infantry fight." As a member of the engineer corps, he spent much of his time in hard labor, "digging all night" or "making rifle pits".

Twenty-five year old Private Bruso, from Buffalo, New York, mustered into "E" Co., New York 50th Engineers in December 1862; he mustered out in June 1865. Every day in the diary has an entry, though one week's worth of pages are missing from November 1864. The diary, written mostly in pencil, contains various doodles throughout. Included is an obituary from the Buffalo Courier-Express (1926) of Octave's wife, Charlotte Pierce Bruso, the adopted daughter of the nephew of President Franklin Pierce. Their marriage is recorded in the entry for February 16, 1864. Mostly tight binding with minor and occasional stains. Cloth wraps, back cover is rubbed, creased, and torn. 3" x 5". Very good condition.”

(Editor: As of this writing, it appears that Charlotte Henry Pierce Bruso’s adoptive father Clark Pierce was not related to President Franklin Pierce. This seems to be pure fiction, possibly created by my great-grandfather Dr. Frank Bruso to better fit into the class-conscious society in which he lived. Dr. Bruso, the first-born son of Octave and Charlotte, was a mercurial figure. Vigorously patriotic and civic-minded, his personal life was fraught with conflict and missteps.)

I purchased this important family document for $1,000 plus the buyer's premium.

While this chain of circumstances may be hard to believe, the reader has my solemn assurance that this account is the absolute truth.

I will always believe that my great-great grandfather wanted me to have this diary, so that I might share his tale with you.

It is fascinating to me to “flesh out” this man and to get inside his head. For example, both his parents were alive during the Civil War, and not one letter or unambiguous reference to them in 1864? The omission makes me wonder why he changed the spelling of his name from Brosseau to Bruso. Was it a religious issue? He came from a Roman Catholic background, and married in the Methodist Episcopal Church and attended the Presbyterian Church at Maine, NY. Almost sounds like someone with questions about his faith. Even in our own day, religious and church differences can be contentious within families.

It is with great reverence for his memory, and for all who have served and who continue to do so, that I present this work. And to whatever mysterious forces that were at work in November of 2009 that allowed me to obtain this sacred family relic I also offer a bewildered and head-shaking “thank you.”

Tom BauerleEditor and great-great grandson of Octave BrusoBuffalo, NYDecember 17, 2010

Saturday, January 23, 1864

Beautiful day. Arrived at Maine at sundown had a grand Reception + supper.

(Editor: Maine, NY is near Binghamton)

Sunday, January 24, 1864

Pleasent + Warm. Attended the Presby. Church in the morning.

(Editor: Nanticoke and Harford were two Presbyterian Churches in Maine, NY)

Monday, January 25, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to L/Julian (Editor: unclear) Captain Hines (sic: Hine) left for Albany. Attended a Ball in the evening-had a grand time!

HINE, ORRIN E.—Age, 25 years. Enrolled, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as first lieutenant, Go. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; as captain, to date August 7, 1862; mustered out, March 6, 1865, at City Point, Va.; commissioned first lieutenant, October 14, 1861, with rank from August 29, 1861, original; captain, July 19, 1862, with rank from July 6, 1862, Vice Gilbert, resigned; major, April 11,1865, with rank of same date, vice Ford, resigned; not mustered. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Tuesday, January 26, 1864

Parle’ vous francais (Editor: this is written vertically in margin in what seems to be a different hand.)

Pleasent day. Went to Whitney’s Point to attended a ball.

(Editor: Whitney Point, NY is north of Binghamton)

Sunday January 31, 1864

Very ___ (Editor: unclear) . Attended church in the morning. And evening with L.

(Editor: "L" is presumably the pet name Octave had for Charlotte "Lottie" Henry Pierce, the woman he would marry within weeks.)

Charlotte “Lottie” Henry Pierce Bruso

Monday, February 1, 1864

Windy day.

Wrote to A.M. McNaught“ King

B.F. DexterW.C. PollardSine Sefft ? Line Lefft

McNAUGHT , ARCHIBALD. Age, 28 years. Enlisted, September 11,1861, at Troy, Pa.; mustered in as private, Co. A, September 11, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; promoted artificer, date not stated; sergeant, September 1, 1862; re-enlisted, January 21, 1864; mustered in as first lieutenant, April 29,1864, as captain Co. H , to date November 6, 1864; resigned, January 14,1865; commissioned first lieutenant, A p r i l 13, 1864, with rank from April 3, 1864, original; captain, November 30, 1864, with rank from October 20, 1864, vice Schenck, mustered out. (Report of the Adjutant General)

(Editor: there were several men surnamed "King" in the 50th NY Engineers. They are listed below.).

KING, BISHOP.—Age, 34 years. Enlisted, August 14, 1862, at Elmira; mustered in as private, Co. II, August 14, 1862, to serve three years; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

KING, CHARLES.—Age, 27 years. Enlisted, December 19,1863, at Rochester; mustered in as private, Co. L , December 19,1863, to serve three years; promoted artificer, date not stated; corporal, December 30, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

KING, FERDINAND , see Ferdinand Konig. (Report of the Adjutant General)

KING, JOSEPH.—Age, 19 years. Enlisted, March 23, 1865, at Buffalo; mustered in as private, Co. II, March 23,1865, to serve three years; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at FortBarry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

DEXTER, BENJAMIN F.—Age, 28 years. Enrolled, January 10, 1862, at Albany; mustered in as second lieutenant, Co. F, January 10, 1862, to serve three years; as first lieutenant, to date October 1, 1862; transferred to Co. E, April 11, 1863; mustered as

captain, Co. L , to date January 28,1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865. at Fort Barry, Va.; commissioned, second lieutenant, January 10, 1862, with rank of same date, vice Watson, resigned; first lieutenant, December 27, 1862, with rank from October 13, 1862, vice McGrath, promoted; captain, February 9, 1864, with rank from January 23, 1864, original. (Report of the Adjutant General)

POLLARD, WILLIAM C.—Age, 25 years. Enlisted, August 30, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as sergeant, Co. H , September 7, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; mustered in as second lieutenant, to date November 14, 1862; first lieutenant, to date March 1,1864; mustered out October 31,1864, at City Point, Va.; commissioned second lieutenant, October 30, 1862, with rank from September 19, 1862, vice Holden, resigned; first lieutenant, March 23, 1864, with rank from March 1, 1864, vice Dexter, promoted. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Tuesday, February 2, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to Col Pettes. Called on L in the forenoon. Went up town in the afternoon to see John B and also called on Mrs Hinman in the Eve and came home with Lottie. Got a letter from Carrie Eastman.

Col. William H. PettesLibrary of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, Civil War Photographs

Reproduction number: LC-DIG-cwpb-04593

PETTES, WILLIAM H.—Age, 48 years. Enrolled, September 10, 1861, at Buffalo; mustered in as lieutenant-colonel, September 18, 1861, to serve three years; as colonel, January 1, 1864; mustered out, to date July 5, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va .; commissioned lieutenant-colonel, November 4, 1861, with rank from September 18, 1861, original; colonel, June 13, 1863, with rank from June 3,1863, vice Stewart, resigned. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Wednesday, February 3, 1864

Pleasent day + a little snow. Got a letter from Julian (Editor: unclear). Called on Lottie in the Evening.

Thursday, February 4, 1864

Pleasent day. Went up to the city in the morning. Called on L in the evening-

Friday, February 5, 1864

Cold & Windy. Got a letter from C.A.B. (Editor: Octave’s brother, Charles Auguste, was born December 1, 1843 in St. Luc, Quebec as per La Societe Genealogique Canadienne-Francaise, Montreal.)

Saturday, February 6, 1864

Snowing. At home all day plaguing (Editor: unclear) my Aunty (Editor: unclear).

Sunday, February 7, 1864

Beautiful day. Attended Church in the morning, afternoon and Evening. And called on Lottie in the Evening.


Pleasent day. At home all day. Called on Miss Pierce and Miss Armstrong with my Uncle Fred.

Tuesday, February 9, 1864

Pleasent day. Recieved a letter from Lt. Pollard. Wrote to Lt. Pollard“ Corp’l A. Howard

To Miss Carrie Eastman and to L/Julian (Editor: unclear) Murphy. Went to the Polyrama in the evening with Uncle Louis

HOWARD, AMOS.—Age, 23 years. Enlisted, August 31, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co., G, September 6, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; promoted corporal, January 30, 1862; re-enlisted, January 31, 1864; promoted sergeant, March 1, 1864; mustered in as second lieutenant, December 27, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, V a.; commissioned second lieutenant, November 30, 1864, with rank-from October 20, 1864, vice Kenyon, promoted. (Report of the Adjutant General)

(Ed: Note: During the Civil War, there were many “polyramas” featuring scenes from the war, in numerous cities North and South. See The Children’s Civil War by James Marten, p. 17.)

Wednesday, February 10, 1864

Very Cold. Attended the social in the Eve and had a grand time- at Mr. Lapp’s.

Thursday February 11, 1864

Quite pleasent. At home all day and called on Lottie in the evening.

Friday February 12, 1864

Beautiful day. Recieved a letter from Savilla and from A. Bruso.

Saturday, February 13, 1864

Beautiful day-Wrote to Cap’t O.E. Hines (sic: Hine) Went up to the city with little Mary to see the Polyrama. Called on L in the evening + met Miss Armstrong.


Pleasent day- Attended church in the morning. Called on L. in the afternoon and met Miss Demming (Editor: unclear) at her house + attended church in the evening and came home with L.


Cold day- Went into town & met James McKenna- Got a letter from Col Pettes + Lt. Dexter. Called on L in the Evening.

Tuesday February 16, 1864

Very Cold day. Recieved a letter from Julian (Editor: unclear) Murphy. Was married at 7 ½ P.M. had a good pleasent audience.

(Editor: Names of people written in very small letters at bottom of page.)

Rev. A.D. Wilbor (Editor: pastor of Riverside Methodist, Dearborn Street, Buffalo)

Rev. Wilbor is referenced in Gazetteer and Biographical Record of Genesee County, NY, J.W. Vose & Co., Syracuse, NY, June 1890, Page 149: “Mr. (Cyrenus) Wilbor was the father of Rev. A.D. Wilbor, once superintendent of the Blind Asylum, and grandfather of Rev. W.C. Wilbor, now pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Le Roy...”

Henry Inman (Henry Inman was married to Charlotte’s sister Mary. Henry was Octave’s brother-in-law.), Mary Inman (Charlotte’s sister)Tillie InmanMrs. InmanMr. Antoine Bruso, Mrs. A. BrusoMr. Louis Bruso, Mrs. L. Bruso, Mary Bruso Mr. Graham + Mrs. GrahamFred Bruso Mrs. Bulger (Editor: possibly Pulger) + Willie B _____, Miss Demming (Editor: unclear)Parmelia JonesNell + Jenine StandbridgeJ.C. Henry Libbie Armstrong + Mrs. ArmstrongRachel Graham

Source: The Pictorial Year-Book and Calendar for 1888 with Buffalo Events in 1887, Illustrated from the Sunday Express, 1888

Wednesday February 17, 1864

Very Cold. Went up to the city and called on my Aunt Mary.


Very Cold. Went to Mr. A___ Brunet (Editor: unclear) . Called on Aunt Mary (Editor: unclear) in the Evening. Miss Armstrong called on us.


Very Cold. Went up to the City in the afternoon and called on Mary. Went out in the Eve with my wife and spent the evening with my Uncle A. (Editor: Antoine Brosseau was baptized in May 1818, at St. Luc, Quebec. Sponsors were Gabriel Romain, Marie Louis Lanciault.) Received a letter from my Brother

Saturday February 20, 1864

More pleasent. Wrote to Savilla.

Sunday February 21, 1864

Pleasent day. Attended church in the morning and went up to spend the afternoon at Henry Inman’s.


Beautiful day. Went up to Lib Armstrong in the evening.

Tuesday February 23, 1864

Pleasent day. Enlisted two men for the 50th N.Y. Eng’s. Went out in the evening to the Miss Standbridges

Wednesday February 24, 1864

Cloudy. Went out to tea at Mrs. Inman’s up Main St. Wrote to Augustin. Paid Box Rent up to July (Editor: unclear) 1st. 40. Went out to tea at Mrs. Inman’s.

(Editor: Augustin Brosseau was born in 1843 in Quebec.)


Unpleasant day. Took Tea at Mrs. Graham’s. and went up to Mary’s + spent the evening. Left for Maine at 10:25 P.M. On my way back to the Army!


Snowing hard. Arrived at Union (Editor: Union, NY is southeast of Syracuse) at 8 A.M. Wrote to Lt. Newcomb (Sic: Newcombe). Wrote to my wife. Left Union for Elmira at 2 P.M.. Stayed at the Engine House at Union. Slept with D. Rathbun.

NEWCOMBE, CALVIN Q.—Age, 38 years. Enlisted, August 27, 1862, at Rochester; mustered in as private, Co. F , August 27, 1862, to serve three years; promoted sergeant,

October 8,1862; mustered in as first lieutenant, Co. B, March 23, 1863; transferred to Co. C, same date; resigned, July 30, 1864; commissioned first lieutenant, March 17, 1863, with rank from February 28, 1863, original. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Saturday February 27,1864

Beautiful day. Left Elmira at 5 P.M.


Beautiful summer day. at Baltimore. Took breakfast here. Left for Washington at 11 A.M. Arrived at W (Editor: Washington) at 3 P.M.. Met Julian (Editor: unclear) + her Sisters. Went up to Inde's (Editor: unclear) in the eve and then to Julian’s. (Editor: unclear)


Foggy day, but warmer. Mustered in for pay. Went to the theatre in the Eve. Called on Nettie Beaman and took dinner. Wrote to my wife.

Tuesday, March 1, 1864

Snow and rain all day. Very unpleasant. Called on Herbert Riply. (Editor: probably “Ripley” is correct) . Wrote to Dewitt Rathbun. Attended the Theatre in the Eve. Bought me a hat for $2.50. (note: approximately $34 in 2009)

Wednesday, March 2, 1864

Cleared off and pleasent again. Left Washington at two P.M. arrived at Alexandria at 4 P.M. Stayed overnight here.

Thursday, March 3, 1864

Pleasent day. Left Alexandria at 8 A.M. for the front. Arrived at Rappahannock Station at 12 A.M. Marched to Hazel Run in two and a half hours. Butter 50 cts.

Friday March 4, 1864

Pleasent day. Wrote to my wife

Saturday, March 5, 1864

Cloudy and some rain. Corporal of the Guard at H.Q.’s. Done some washing. Boot mending 10 c-

(roughly $1.50 in 2009)

Sunday March 6, 1864

Beautiful day. Came off from guard at 9 A.M. Wrote to Uncle Antoine.

Monday March 7, 1864

Wrote to the Inquirer and sent $2.50. Wrote to Mr. Henry McKenney. Butter 50 cts. (roughly $7.00 in 2009) 30

Tuesday March 8, 1864

Rain all day. Somewhat lonesome.

Wednesday March 9, 1864

Beautiful day. Inspection at 8. Wrote to Mr. Henry Inman. Wrote to my wife.

Thursday March 10, 1864

Cloudy + Rainy. Corporal of the Guard at the Bridge. Recieved a letter from my wife.


Cloudy but pleasent. Wrote to my wife. A Thunderstorm in the afternoon-also heavy rain. Sour Kraut 20 cts

Saturday March 12, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to John H. Ripley. Pickles 50 cts.


Beautiful day. Inspection at 9 A.M. Preaching at 10 A.M. by the Chaplain of the 5th Maine.


Beautiful day. Went to the Headquarters with D. Edwards. Got a letter from my wife.

EDWARDS , DERONDO.—Age, 20 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. A , August 31,1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861;promoted corporal, March 18, 1862; re-enlisted, December 20, 1S63; promoted first sergeant, April 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)


Pleasent day. Company drill at 8 A.M. Wrote to my wife. Heavy snow storm for about one hour.


Beautiful day. Corp’l of the Guard at the Bridge. Sundries 50 cts.


Beautiful day. Came off from Guard at 9 ½ A.M-Done some washing. 4 promotions made.


Beautiful day. Wrote to Lt. Roosa !Very Windy! recieved a letter from my wife. Fighting at Kelly’s Ford

ROOSA, JOHN L.—Age, 24 years. Enrolled, September 9, 1861, at Elmira; mustered in as second lieutenant, Co. G, September 14, 1861, to serve three years; as first lieutenant, August 4, 1863; mustered out, January 16, 1865; commissioned second lieutenant, October 14, 1861, with rank from September 16, 1861, original; first lieutenant, March 17, 1863, with rank from February 28, 1863, original; not mustered; again commissioned first lieutenant, July 28, 1863, with rank from May 18, 1863, vice Schenck, promoted. (Report of the Adjutant General)


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Butter + onions 65. Got 3 pairs of socks + a paper from my wife


Beautiful day but very windy.


Pleasent day. But very cold night + morning. No letters came by mail today. Played Ball in the afternoon.


Very cold night but pleasent during the day. Commenced to snow in the afternoon-about 6 or 8 inches fell.


Pleasent + windy. A great deal of snow on the ground. No drill. Wrote to __ Bruso (Editor: unclear) . On guard in camp !Wrote to my wife! Recieved a letter from my wife, one from Sine (Editor: Line?) and one from H. Ripley.


Beautiful day. Came off from Guard at 9 A.M. Wrote to my wife and to Sine. Made some candy. 16 Recruits came at night. (Editor: written vertically in margin “$3.00”)


Pleasent day. Borrowed 2.00 from Searg’t McNaught. Went to Headquarters and bought 1 box Segars (sic: cigars) and 15 lbs sugar. Got wet coming back. Got a letter from my Wife.


Pleasent But very Windy. Wrote to my wife-Made some candy. (Editor: written vertically in margin “1.20“)


Beautiful day. Inspection at 9 o clock A.M. Went out Boat riding. Got a letter from my Wife.


Beautiful Day. Drill at 9 A.M. Made some candy


Cloudy, chilly and rainy all day. Cop’l of the Guard in Camp. Wrote to my Wife. Wrote to the P.M. (Editor: postmaster) at Washington for stamps.


Raining still. The water very high. Felt rather unwell this day. Came off from Guard at 9 A.M.


Pleasent day but rather cool. Felt some better. On detail putting Plank on the Bridge. Got

a letter from my sister Melvina.

(Editor: Marie Malvina Brosseau was born October 30, 1848 in St. Luc, Quebec, La Societe Genealogique Canadienne-Francaise, Montreal. In the US Census of 1860, she was 11 years old and living in Illinois.)

Friday April 1, 1864

Pleasent day, but rain in the Evening. Wrote to my Wife. Wrote to John McNally. Got a letter from my wife.

Saturday April 2, 1864

Awfull (sic) bad day. Snow and Rain. Paid Searg’t McNaught in full (2.00) Wrote to my wife. Wrote to my Sister Malvina. Got a letter from my Wife, one from Henry Inman and one from Washington.

Sunday April 3, 1864

Pleasent but cloudy. Inspection at 9 A.M. Long and lonesome day.

Monday April 4, 1864

Pleasent in the morning until 10 o’clock. Left Welford’s Ford at 9 A.M. arrived at Rappahannock Station at 12 ½ . Got wet through. Rained all the rest of the day.

Tuesday April 5, 1864

Steady heavy Rain. Mailed a letter to my wife. Wrote to Henry Inman

4-6 and 4-7 missing


Pleasent day. Wrote to my Brother in Law ___ (Editor: unclear) . Got marching orders and left for the Hazel River at 10 A.M. Guard at the Bridge. Got a letter from my wife.


Rainy day. Came off from Guard at 9 A.M.-Wrote to my wife. Heavy freshet (?) had to work all night in the water.


Pleasent day until 4 P.M. Raining on. Water on the Hazel very high. Feel very unwell. No mail today.


Pleasent day. In camp all day. Unwell. No mail.


Beautiful day. Worked the the (Editor: two “the’s”) Hill Road. Got a letter and one paper from my wife.

Wednesday April 13, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my Wife-Sent my under clothes away. Got Paid off at 3 o’clock P.M.

Thursday April 14, 1864

Beautiful day. Sent $40.00 to my wife by Express. Went to Brandy Station with Lt. Pollard. Wrote to my Wife.


Pleasent day. On Detail most all day. Recieved a letter from my Wife, one from Uncle Antoine and one from F.C. (Editor: unclear) Beaman


Rained most all day. Wrote to my Wife and to Uncle Antoine. Sent my wife $10.00 (Editor: lined through) Got a letter from my Brother Augustin.


Cloudy + Cool. Wrote to my brother Augustin. Wrote to W.H. Rahu + Co Box 2262 Pha. Pa. Wrote to the Editor of the Chronicle (Editor: lined through). Corp’l of the Guard in Camp.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Came off from Guard at 9 A.M.. Went to Brandy Station and attended the Grand Review of the 6th Corps. Saw Gen’l Grant and many others.

General U.S. Grant


Beautiful day. Sent my wife $10.00. 18903 (Editor: receipt number?) Out in charge of the squad getting out wood. Got my Papers from St. Louis-open by Lt. Pollard.


Cold + cloudy. Drill at 9 A.M. Nothing done the rest of the day.


Beautiful day. Drill + Dress Parade. Got a letter from my wife.


Beautiful Day. Drill as usual. Wrote to my wife and sent her $10.00 88307 (Editor: receipt number?)


Pleasent and very windy. Went to Brandy Station. Got a letter from my wife + Her

Picture also Lib Armstrong.


Pleasent and windy. Wrote to my Wife. General Inspection at 9 A.M. Got a letter from my wife. Commenced to rain in the evening.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Got a letter from my Wife.


Pleasent + cool. Nothing done only (Editor: unclear) the usual exercise. Got a letter from my wife + from Johnnie. Got my chair from Pha. (Editor: Philadelphia) .


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife 2 letters and sent her two dollars in new currency. Wrote for stamps at Washington. Corp’l of the Camp Guard


Cool + pleasent. Wrote to Philp + Solomons 332 PA Avenue W. D.C. and sent 3.50. Came off from Guard at 5 ½ P.M.


Cool + pleasent. Got a letter from my sister Malvina. Drill as usual.


Beautiful Day. Muster for Pay. Got a letter from my wife

Sunday May 1, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my Wife and also to my sister Malvina. Got a letter from my Brother Augustin and my stamps from Washington! Wrote to my Brother C.A.B.

Monday May 2, 1864

Pleasent until about 3 o clock. Got up at 4 o’clock A.M. to leave for the spring campaign. A heavy rain on (Editor: or “all”) the Eve. Camped across the Hazel River.

Tuesday May 3, 1864

Beautiful day. Camped near the Hazel River. Wrote to my wife and sent her a map.

Wednesday May 4, 1864

Beautiful Day. Struck tents at 3 o clock A.M. and left the Hazel River at 4 A.M. On Guard with the Hd Qrtrs + tool wagon. Arrived at the Rapidan at 5 P.M. marched 22 miles. ___________ (Editor: unclear) at 1 P.M. as a safe-guard.

Thursday May 5, 1864

Beautiful day. Safeguard at Melville Gold mill. Wrote a letter to my wife. Got marching orders at evening. Arrived at ___ Mine R__ (Editor: unclear) early in the morning. Heavy fighting all the afternoon.

Friday May 6, 1864

Very warm. In line of Battle on the north side of Mine Run (Editor: River?). Terrible fighting on the early part of the day. Behind the Breast Works all day. Made Pits-one men of Co E wounded !B. Allen!- Layed in Pits for 24 Hours.

ALLEN, BELDEN.—Age, 25 years. Enlisted, August 27, 1862, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 27, 1862, to serve three years; wounded, May 6, 1864; promoted artificer, date not stated; corporal, October 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Belden Allen, note wound in his head"Uncle Belden Allen, Shell Hole in Head"

http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/civil/other/50thEng/50thEngMain.htmNY State Military Museum & Veterans Research Center

Saturday May 7, 1864

Very warm. Relieve from the Pits in the morning. Soon after we left a heavy charge was made. Got marching orders at night and Parked at Chancellorsville. Took the road to Hanover Junction. Heavy fighting in front.

Sunday May 8, 1864

Very warm + gusty. Marching to Hanover Junction. Heavy firing in our front. Had to stop on account of it.

Monday May 9, 1864

(Editor: crossed out text) Warm day. Relieved from the Pits on the morning. Make some Bridges.

Warm + Gusty. Parked all day near Spottsylvania Church. Heavy firing towards the evening. Gen’l Sedgwick killed.

General John Sedgwickhttp://www.old-picture.com/mathew-brady-studio/Sedgwick-General-USA-John.htm

Tuesday May 10, 1864

Very warm + windy. Corp’l of the Guard at night. Got marching orders at 7 P.M. from White River (Editor: unclear). Left camp at 11 P.M. Camped on the Plank Road at 2 A.M. Terrible artillery fighting at the front.


Pleasent + cloudy. Heavy musketry heard at the front. Came of (sic: off) from Guard at 6 P.M. Near Chancellorsville. Heaviest fighting of the war.


Cloudy and moisty (sic). Heavy rain all the forenoon. Got marching orders + left camp at 8 A.M. Got a letter from my wife.

Friday May 13, 1864

Cloudy + Rainy. Got marching orders at 1 P.M. + struck tents. Camped near the Nye River. Heavy rain during the march.


Cloudy + Rainy. Building Road + Bridges. Got marching orders and left for the extreme front.

Sunday May 15, 1864

Cloudy. Wrote to my Wife. Struck Tents at 9 A.M. for the front again. Fell trees at the first pickett line.

Monday May 16, 1864

Foggy day + Pleasent. Cut roads all the afternoon. No fighting of any account.


Foggy + damp. Got marching orders at 9 P.M. and marched all night. Mailed 3 letters for my wife. Wrote to Capt. Geo. Montieth (sic: Monteith).


Pleasent + warm. Marched until 3 P.M. Heavy fighting all the forenoon. Returned to our old campground near the Anderson farm.


Pleasent day. Struck tents at 3 o clock A.M. and left camp. Sent out in charge of the Entrenching Tools (one wagon). At the breast works all day.

Friday May 20, 1864

Beautiful day. Received four letters from my Beloved wife. One from my uncle. One from my Brother. And some paper from Washington. Worked until two o clock entrenching.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife, to my Uncle and my Brother. Moved in the afternoon. Heavy battle at evening. Marched all night.

Sunday May 22, 1864

Very warm. Marched all night. Arrived at Gunnell (Editor: unclear) Station at 11 A.M. Spirited (Editor: unclear) fighting about noon in the advance. Change of Direction. Parked at Philipo Store.

Monday May 23, 1864

Pleasent day. Got marching orders. Camped at Mount Carmel Church. Terrible artillery fighting on the North Anna River.


Pleasent day. Marched all day. Arrived at Jericho Mills and fixed roads. Camped across the North Anna. Got marching orders at 11 ½ P.M. and marched all night.


Pleasent day. Built a Bridge at Quarrel Mills on the North Anna. On Guard in charge of the whole guard. Got marching orders at 1 A.M. and the Hd Qrts left. Heavy rain towards evening.


Rain in the morning + warm the rest of the day. Left the Quarrell Mill at 10 A.M. for Jericho Mills. Wrote to my wife.

Friday May 27, 1864

Pleasent. Left Jericho Mills at 3 A.M. for the Orange C.H. Parked at Hickory Grove. Marched 15 miles.


Pleasent day. Struck Tents at 3 A.M. and arrived at Hylett’s Ford (Editor: unclear) on the Pamunkey at 3 P.M. 20 hours without eating.

Sunday May 29, 1864

Beautiful and cool day. Wrote a letter to my Wife. In camp all day.

Monday May 30, 1864

Beautiful day. Cannonading heard at the front. In camp all day. Mailed two letters for my Wife.


Beautiful day. Got marching orders for the front and left King Wms. Ford at 11 A.M. Arrived on the Right at __ (Editor: unclear) P.M. Cut roads to the line of battle. Pretty heavy firing through the day.

Wednesday June 1, 1864

Warm day. Do not feel very well. Got marching orders at 11 ½ P.M. and left. Got a letter from Geo. Montieth. Arrived at Cold Harbor at 2 P.M. Marched hard and almost bushed. A most terrible battle was fought and we had to leave our place of rest double quick.

Thursday June 2, 1864

Beautiful day. Heavy skirmishing all night. Amos Robbins died from a wound recieved yesterday.

ROBBINS, AMOS.—Age, 25 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; discharged for disability, April 30, 1862, at Camp Woodbury, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

(Editor: Amos Robbins is listed as a Civil War veteran who made the ultimate sacrifice on the memorial at Broome County Veteran’s Memorial Arena. Perhaps there is a mistake in the records in the Adjutant General‘s report, or perhaps Octave was incorrect witht he date of death.)

Friday June 3, 1864

Beautiful day. In camp all day. Corp’l of the Guard. A Terrible charge made at dusk.

Saturday June 4, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife and to my Uncle Antoine. Struck tents and moved near 6th Corps Hd Quarters. Recieved 2 letters from my Wife. The company was out all night.

The Headquarters Flag of the Sixth Army Corps(Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier)

Sunday June 5, 1864

Rainy + cloudy. Wrote a letter to my Wife. Worked all night digging a road to the extreme front. A heavy charge was made during our work.

Monday June 6, 1864

Beautiful day. In camp most all day. Was shelled out of our camp towards evening and went behind the breast works. Worked until 10 P.M. fortifying our camp.

Tuesday June 7, 1864

Beautiful day. Finished our breast works at two P.M. Got a letter from my wife with a picture of Tillie. Wrote to my wife.


Pleasent day. Worked all night last night digging a Road. Pretty heavy Artillery fight toward dusk. Did not go out digging this night.


Pleasent + windy. Corp’l of the Guard. The whole Co went out digging all night.

Friday June 10, 1864

Pleasent + windy. Came off froom guard at 6 P.M. Went out to Hd Qrs with the mail. The Company finished the Road.


Beautiful day. Made Rifle Pits all day-worked until 8 P.M.

Sunday June 12, 1864

Very Cool Day. All quiet along the line during the forenoon. Co. L and the Dep’t Hd Qrs struck tents and went off. We struck tents at 6 P.M. and marched most all night took breakfast near Hopkin’s Mill Va (Editor: this may be incorrect, as Hopkin's Mill, VA is not near Petersburg)on our way to the James River.

Monday June 13, 1864

Very pleasent day. Marched over 20 miles since we struck tents, Crossed the Chickahominy at 5 P.M. and camped on Lane’s (Editor: Jane’s?) farm. My heel very sore.


Very pleasent day. Good for marching. Left camp at 5 (Editor: unclear) A.M. Arrived at James River at 5 P.M.


Warm day. In camp all day near the James (Editor: unclear) River. Bought 2 Boxes of Raisins + 1 Box of Segars (sic: cigars). Went to see Fred Bonneville (sic: Bonville).

BONVILLE, FREDERICK.—Age, 22 years. Enlisted, February 23,1864, at Buffalo; mustered in as private, Co. F , February 23, 1864, to serve three years; transferred, May 5, 1864, to Co. A ; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)


Warm day. Got marching orders and marched back two miles and came back to the River and camped again. Crossed the James at 9 P.M. on our way to Petersburg. I feel rather unwell and had my Baggage carried. Marched all night


Very warm day. Felt well again towards 2 o’clock. Camped five miles from Petersburg. Detailed in charge of two Tool wagons to go with 3 Div. 6th Corps.


Cloudy and Cool. Wrote to my Wife. Marched two miles toward Petersburg. Got a letter from my wife.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my Wife. Wrote to Philip Lohmans (Editor: unclear) for

envelopes 2.00. Wrote to Shellington for paper 2.00. Wrote to Post Master at Washington for stamps. Ordered out with tools at 9 P.M.


Beautiful day. Very hard artillery fight from 8 to 10 A.M.. Shells flew thick over us. Our camp shelled and they had to move off. A Negro publicly hung at 6th C. for committing adultery on a white woman. Out all day waiting (Editor: unclear) for my tools. (in a ravine)


Beautiful day. Went out again last night with tools and came back this morning. Our company changed camp. Got marching orders at 8 P.M. and left. Got a letter from my wife


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife! When we parked for breakfast. Camped (Editor: unclear) ordered out with my Tools and was out all night.


Warm Day. Met Col. Bidwell. Our lines advanced and so did I (Editor: I or L) with my Tools. Got my Pipe, Tobacco, Segars (sic: cigars) and a paper from my wife. Very close to the Picket (sic) Line and heavy skirmishings.

Daniel Davidson Bidwell Bidwell was mortally wounded in action October 19, 1864, at the Battle of Cedar Creek,

Virginia.


Warm day. The 6th Corps fell back to the old line. Started from 6 at 6 HdQrts (Editor:

unclear) at 3 P.M. for the front with Tools


Very warm day. At the same place all day. Recieved a paper from my wife.


Very hot. Mailed a letter to my wife. Wrote to Washton (Washington) for Tobacco. Went to camp in the forenoon. All quiet along the line.


Very warm day. A shower toward evening. Returned to camp at 4 P.M.- It got quiet (sic: quite) cool at night


Cloudy + Cool. Wrote to my wife. Recieved a letter from my wife. and one from W (Washington) with stamps. Was ordered to the front again at 4 P.M.


Pleasent day. On the line of Battle. Grand Review of the 6th Corps by Gen’l Wright. Got marching orders at 3 P.M. and left for Reams Station on the Weldon RR

General Horatio G. WrightCommander of "Bloody Sixth Corps"


Pleasent day. Marched all night (last night). Arrived at Reams Station at 2 A.M. with any opposition (Editor: without any opposition?) and tore up the RR badly. Started back at 4 P.M. to return to our old place. Sheridan with his command passed us near the Weldon RR.

Friday July 1, 1864

Very Warm. Recieved a letter from my Sister Malvina. Camped all day 3 miles from our old line. Wrote to my sister Malvina

Saturday July 2, 1864

Warm Day. Marched back to our old line of works. Recieved a letter and one paper from my Wife. Wrote to my wife. Got order to leave at 3 A.M. tomorrow morning.

Sunday July 3, 1864

Very Pleasent. Left camp at 3 A.M. for the front line of Works. Wrote to Wm F. King. Went to Camp at night for rations.

Monday July 4, 1864

Beautiful Cool day. Wrote a letter to my wife. Very long and lonesome day. Recieved a letter and paper from Henry Inman.

Tuesday July 5, 1864

Very Pleasent day. Wrote to Henry Inman. Went to camp at 1 P.M. All of my Tools in at night.

Wednesday July 6, 1864

Pleasent and Windy. Very unwell all the afternoon. Went to camp at 7 P.M. Recieved my Envelopes from Philips + Solomons (Editor: Philp & Solomons stationery?)

Thursday July 7, 1864

Pleasent + Windy. Left Camp for the line of works at 7 A.M. Wrote to Shellington for paper and Envelopes. Sent $5.00. Went to Camp at 6 P.M.

Friday July 8, 1864

Rain (Fine ?) Day + Windy. Ordered on the line again and left camp at 4 A.M. Came back to camp at 2 P.M.


Fine (?) day. Recieved 2 letters from my Wife with Silk + Comb. Wrote to my Wife. In camp all day. Ordered to report at the Jone’s House at 8 1/2 P.M. Came back at 10 P.M.

The 6th Corps ordered out and left for City Point during the night.

Sunday July 10, 1864

Warm Day. Ordered to the 5th (?) Corps with loads of Tools at 3 P.M. Recieved a paper from Henry Inman.

Monday July 11, 1864:

Pleasent and Windy. Called on Capt. Montieth (sic) Asst Adj’t Gen’l of the 3rd Div 5th Corps. The Rebels shelled us at night. Col. Danes 39th Mass. was killed + others.

Tuesday July 12, 1864:

Pleasent Day. Went to camp at 7 A.M. Moved back on the rear of our left 5 miles from Petersburg. Built a redoubt. Recieved a letter from my wife.

Wednesday July 13, 1864:

Windy Day. Wrote to my wife. Wrote to Dr. F.L. (Editor:: unclear) Miller. Went to camp towards evening.

Thursday July 14, 1864:

Windy and warm. At the Redoubt all day. Went to camp towards Evening, Cool night.

Friday July 15, 1864

Very pleasent day. Moved our Teams in the woods. Very cool at night.

Saturday July 16, 1864:

Warm + Windy. Went to camp and turned my gun and accoutrements in. The Redoubt finished and guns mounted towards evening. Very cool night.


Warm but Windy. Very long and lonesome day. Went to camp at night. Received 16 Packs Env. 15 Qrs (Editor: unclear) of Paper. 62 cts. Postage. Received my Tobacco by mail. Comfortable night.

Monday July 18, 1864

Cloudy, cool + pleasant. Received a letter from my wife and one from John C. Henry. Wrote to my wife and to John C. Henry. Went to camp in the evening. Rained a little at

night.

Tuesday July 19, 1864:

Rain in the morning and forenoon. Stopped raining at 2 P.M. Rained again during the night. In camp all day.

Wednesday July 20, 1864:

Warm day. Recieved a letter from my wife. Wrote to my wife. Went to camp in the forenoon.

Thursday July 21, 1864:

Beautiful day. Recieved a letter from my wife with some Pills. Sick! Wrote to my wife. Recieved my stockings by mail. Went to Camp with my Tools at 2 P.M.

Friday July 22, 1864:

Pleasent day. Went to City Point in the afternoon. Met (Editor: unclear) all of our Boys, Lt. Roosa and Fred Bonneville (sic). (Editor, scratched through: “Started back in the forenoon.”)

Saturday July 23, 1864:

Pleasent day. Left City Point at 8 A.M. Took dinner with Lt. McNaught. Left for home at one P.M. arrived at 3 P.M. Received 3 letters. One from my Wife. One from home and one from my Uncle.

Sunday July 24, 1864:

Cloudy. In Camp. Wrote to my wife, my sister and to Uncle. Went out walking to see the Petersburg Express. Rained all night.

Monday July 25, 1864:

Beautiful day. In camp all day.

Tuesday July 26, 1864

Beautiful day. In camp all day. Recd a letter from my wife. The 2d Corps went off. The Company went working on the Redoubts.

Wednesday July 27, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. The Company went out again. In camp all day. Heard good news from the 2d and 6th Corps.

Thursday July 28, 1864

Cloudy + Warm, Went to City Point. Started at 4 A.M. and returned at 11 A.M. Out after papers Horseback, in the evening.

Friday July 29, 1864

Pleasent day. Went out after papers in the evening. Recieved orders to be ready to march at 4 A.M. Recieved a letter from my wife and one from Henry.


Warm Day. Petersburg Seized at 4 ½ A.M. Terrible Artillery and Infantry fight. In Camp all day did not move.

(Editor: this was the day of the massive explosion which precipitated the Battle of the Crater.)


Hot day. Wrote to my wife and to Henry Inman. Recieved a letter from my wife, and one from my brother Augustin.

Monday August 1, 1864

Warm day. Wrote to my wife. Wrote to my Brother. Went out in the evening to the front with Lt. W.C. Pollard.

POLLARD, WILLIAM C.—Age, 25 years. Enlisted, August 30, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as sergeant, Co. H , September 7, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1,1861; mustered in as second lieutenant, to date November 14, 1862; first lieutenant, to date March 1,1864; mustered out October 31,1864, at City Point, Va.; commissioned second lieutenant,October 30, 1862, w i t h rank from September 19, 1862, vice Holden, resigned; first lieutenant, March 23, 1864, with rank from March 1, 1864, vice Dexter, promoted. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Tuesday August 2, 1864

Pleasent day. Wrote to Snyder and Co. (Editor: unclear) for a pair of Boots. Went out

riding in the evening with Capt. Hines (sic: Hine). Corporal of the Guard- II nd (Editor: unclear) Relief.

HINE, ORRIN E.—Age, 25 years. Enrolled, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as first lieutenant, Go. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; as captain, to date August 7, 1862; mustered out, March 6, 1865, at City Point, Va.; commissioned first lieutenant, October 14, 1861, with rank from August 29, 1861, original; captain, July 19, 1862, with rank from July 6, 1862, Vice Gilbert, resigned; major, April 11,1865, with rank of same date, vice Ford, resigned; not mustered. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Wednesday August 3, 1864

Warm day. Came off from guard at 6 P.M. Went out riding with Lt. Pollard. Recieved a letter from my wife and a paper from Henry.

Thursday August 4, 1864

Cool day. Wrote to my wife. Wrote to Washington to the Marines. Went out to work, all night.

Friday August 5,1864

Hot Day. In camp all day. Went out riding with Lt. Pollard in the evening.

Saturday August 6,1864

Warm day. In camp all day. Went out to HdQrs in the evening after papers. Recieved a letter from my... (Editor: page ripped)

Sunday August 7,1864

Warm day. Wrote to my wife. Preaching at Three o’clock P.M. I attended! A good sermon preached...(Editor: page ripped)

Monday August 8,1864

Warm day. Sap (ed: unclear) drill by Major Brainard in the morning and afternoon for the benefit of the Non. Comd officers of the Regt. Recieved a letter from my sister Malvina with her picture.

BRAINARD, WESLEY.—Age, 28 years. Enrolled, August 15, 1861, at Rome; mustered in as captain, Co. C, September 17, 1861, to serve three years; major, November 28, 1862; mustered out, December 12, 1864, to receive promotion as colonel, Fifteenth New York Engineers; commissioned captain, October 14, 1861, with rank from September 17, 1861, original; major, December 29,1862, with rank from November 27,1862, original. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Tuesday August 9,1864

Pleasent day. Wrote to my sister Malvina. Flying (Editor: unclear) Sap drill in the forenoon. Wrote to the Secty of Navy at Washington. 60 men went out to work all night. 2 of them hit by balls.

Wednesday August 10,1864

Pleasent day. Sick all day. 58 (Editor: unclear) men went out at night to work. No mail came.

Thursday August 11,1864

Warm day. Went to the Doctor and got some pills-7- Wrote to my wife and Henry Inman. Went on Guard at 8 P.M. Volunteered!

Friday August 12, 1864

Warm day. No better-went to the Doctor and he told me to report every 3 Hours. Remittant (sic: remittent or he may have meant unremittent) fever. No mail for 3 days. Felt better towards night.

Saturday August 13, 1864

Warm Day. Excused from all duties. Feel a great deal better. Pills every two hours for 16 hours. Heavy fighting on the right. Simon Helm + Philo Barden badly wounded. Felt no better during the day.

BARDEN, PHILO.—Age, 23 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; promoted artificer, March 1,1863; re-enlisted, December 26, 1863; wounded, August 13, 1864, at Petersburg, V a . ; promoted corporal, October 1, 1864; discharged for disability, February 3, 1865 near Poplar Grove Church, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)

HELM, SEMON.—Age, IS years. Enlisted, August 29, 1861, at Thurston; mustered in as private, Co. A , September 1.2, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; re-enlisted, December 26, 1863; wounded, August 13, 1864, before Petersburg, Va.; promoted artificer, October 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as Seaman J . Helm. (Report of the Adjutant General)

Sunday August 14, 1864

Warm Day. Excused by the Doctor-felt pretty bad in the morning. RecD marching orders in the forenoon and it was countermanded in the evening-and pitch tents again. Rained in the night.


Hot in the forenoon + heavy rains towards eve. Excused from all duties. Feel well but weak yet. Wrote to my wife. RecD 2 letters from my wife with 24 stamps.


Pleasent day. Wrote to my wife. Excused bye (sic: by) the Doctor from duty. The Co went out to work and were ordered back again. Some rain during the night.


Pleasent all day. Some rain in the Eve. Reported for duty-to the Dr (Editor: unclear). Heavy fighting from 1 A.M. until 4 A.M. by Artillery. Went to Gen’l HdQrs for papers.


Cool and some rain. Heard fighting during the night from 1 o’clock until 4 A.M. In camp all day. Went out to work during the night. Came near being shot.


Rained most of the day. Did not go out to work this night. Recieved a letter from my wife.


Rainy all day. Wrote to my wife. Did not go out today.


Beautiful Day. Went out to work to the front and were shelled-out. Came back to camp at 1 P.M.. recieved a letter from my brother Augustin. Felt unwell at night. Corpl of the Guard.


Pleasent. Some rain in the eve. Wrote to my Brother. Recieved a letter from my wife with X. Came off ...(Editor: page ripped)


Pleasent day. Wrote to my wife. Did not go out to work feel unwell.


Pleasent day. Unwell all day. Excused from night work by Capt. Hines (sic: Hine). Recieved a letter from my wife, one from Henry and one from Johnnie (Editor: unclear).


Warm Day. Went to see the Doctor. Excused from heavy duty. Wrote to my wife, to Henry (Editor: line through "to Henry"), and Johnnie (Editor: unclear). The whole Reg’t ordered to the front as Infantry. Continual firing all night. Heavy fighting on the extreme left.


Warm day. Relieved (Editor: unclear) from the Entrenching. Tool (Editor: unclear) Train turned over yesterday. The Regiment returned this morning. Went out to work ___ (Editor: unclear) + came near being shot in the head. Some rain during the night.


Warm and Pleasent all day. Wrote to Henry Inman. Recieved a letter from my wife. Recieved a letter from Schneider + Loughran (Editor: unclear). Out to work this night.


Pleasent Day. Wrote to my wife a letter + sent her a Leslie (Editor: Frank Leslie's Magazines were popular sources of news.). Went out to work this night until 12 P.M.


Beautiful day. Went out to make an abatis on our left close to the Rebel Picket line.


Pleasent day. Recieved our commutation (Editor: unclear) money on our last _____ (Editor: unclear) furlough. Went out to work on making abates (sic: abatis).


Beautiful day. In camp all day. Did not go out to work this night. Mustered for pay-6 months. Went to Gen’l Hdqrs for papers.

Thursday September 1, 1864

Beautiful day. Went out to work in the forenoon. Wrote to Sneider + Co (Editor: unclear) for boots for Lawrence. Wrote to Shellington for stationary 2.00. Recieved a letter from my Sister Malvina. Corpl of the Guard. 3d Relief.

Friday September 2, 1864

Beautiful Day. Wrote to my Sister Malvina. Wrote to my wife. Recieved a letter from my wife by eve mail.

Saturday September 3, 1864

Beautiful day, In camp all day.

Sunday September 4, 1864

Beautiful Day. Was ordered out with a load of Tools. Heavy firing commenced about 11 P.M. The Company shelled on (Editor: "on" or "in"). Returned with my Tools the same night.

Monday September 5, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Ordered out with Tools again at the same place. Came in early as the Infantry detail did not come.

Tuesday September 6, 1864

Cloudy + Sprinkling. Ordered with tools again. Came back at 6 P.M. Recieved paper and envelopes from Shellington!

Wednesday September 7, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Went out a walking after supper with Lt. Pollard. Recieved a letter from my wife.


Beautiful + cool day. Wrote to my wife. Went ariding towards our left with Lt. Pollard. Met Geo. Montieth + Gen’l Crawford. Bought me a hat.


Cloudy + pleasent. Felt lonesome all day. Walked to the Gen’l HdQrs in the evening and got my hair cut (Editor: unclear).


Beautiful day. In camp all day. Recieved a letter from my wife.


Beautiful day a shower in the afternoon. Mailed a letter to my Wife. The 1861 men left for home. Attended preaching.


Beautiful cool day. Wrote to the Soldier’s Agent 519 12th St Washington. Wrote to Col. North NYS agent.


Beautiful Day. Today we put up a log house worked all day. Got it partly done.


Cloudy but pleasent. Went after a load of load of boards to finish our house. Recieved a letter from my wife.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my wife. Orderly to Colonel Spaulding ____ (Editor: unclear) night. (Editor: page ripped)


Beautiful Day. Relieved from being orderly in account of our Company’s leaving (Editor: page ripped)


Warm Day. All at work on fort No. 1 after night. Wrote to my wife.


Warm Day. Worked all day at Battery No. 8. Went to the 2d + 9th Corps HdQrs in the evening and also after the mail. Recieved a letter from my Wife.


Warm Day. Worked all day at Battery No. 8. Recieved a letter from my Brother Augustin + one from Washington.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my wife. Recieved a letter from Sneider + Langley (Editor: unclear). Went out in the woods all day with Squad getting Poles.


Warm Day. Worked on fort No. 8 all day. Changed our camp. Rained most all night.


Pleasent Day. Recieved a letter from my wife. Worked all day at Fort No. 1. Recieved a paper from my wife.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my wife, To my sister Malvina and to Snyder + Co. Worked all day at Fort No. 1.


Rained a little. Worked all day at Fort No. 1. Signed the Pay Rolls for Pay, in the evening. Weather changed during night (Editor: page ripped)


Beautiful Day. Went to call on the 17th Mich. Met my old friends Capt. Sudborough (Sudborough, Joseph A. Adrian, 19 ), Lt. Archibald (Company A: Archibald, George H. Adrian, 21 ) and others. Recieved a letter from my wife and a pair (Editor: unclear) Of suspenders. Heavy firing heard all day on the James River.

Col. Humphrey

Birth: Jun. 12, 1828, Canandaigua, Ontario County, New York, USA Death: Jan. 15, 1899, Adrian, Lenawee County, Michigan, USA (www.findagrave.com)

"Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. A school teacher, clerk, and businessman before the Civil War, he joined the 2nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry as a captain in April of 1861, and was promoted to major in June of 1862. On May 1, 1863, he was promoted

to colonel of the 2nd Michigan. After participating in all of the major battles of the Ninth Corps, he was wounded twice at the Battle of Spotsylvania. In June of 1864, he was appointed commander of the second brigade of the third division of the Ninth Corps. At the Battle of Cold Harbor, he was assigned the task of maintaining the picket line in front of the enemy during the withdrawal of the army by General Grant to the south side of the James River. The following month, he commanded his brigade with distinction to the left of the Crater at the Battle of Petersburg. After his role in the Battle of the Crater at Petersburg, he continued as brigade commander of the second brigade. On August 1, 1864 he was made a brevet brigadier general "for conspicuous and gallant services, both as a regimental and brigade commander, throughout the campaign." On September 30, 1864, General Grant assigned him command of the first division of the Eighteenth Corps until a general officer could be identified for permanent command, but he tendered his resignation instead. After the war, he became a newspaper editor and manufacturer. He was elected auditor general of Michigan four times serving from 1867 until 1875 and was the warden of the state prison at Jackson from 1875 until 1883. From 1883 until 1893, he served as postmaster of Adrian, Michigan. (bio by: Thomas Fisher) )"

(Editor: Octave Bruso lived in Adrian, Michigan during the Census of 1860.)


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my wife. My eye quite painfull (sic: painful). Worked on Fort Blaisdell.


Beautiful Day. Got paid off for 6 months. Wrote to James McGregor. Wrote to Sneider + Lauchor (Editor: unclear) And sent them $30.00. Wrote to Shellington for Stationary $3.00 (Editor: unclear).


Beautiful day. Expressed $60 for my wife bye Adam’s Ex. Recieved a letter from my wife + a paper.


Beautiful Day. Struck tents at 3 A.M. + left for the Regiment. Marching Orders. Layed (sic: laid) all day packed up.


Pleasent day. Left for the front at 12 o’clock. Wrote to my wife. Commenced raining in the evening + rained most all night.

Saturday October 1, 1864

Rained ____ (Editor: ink smear). Wrote to the Post master for stamps $3.00 worth. Recieved a letter from my wife + Mary Bruso. On picket duty all and senior! (Editor: unclear)

Sunday October 2, 1864

Beautiful day. Relieved from Picket in the morning. Got marching orders + left camp. Wrote to my wife. Arrived at Mr. People’s Farm at 11 o’clock P.M. Very march. (Editor: unclear, could this have been the Peeble Farm, where Col. Norval Welch died on September 30th while his 16th Michigan swarmed Confederate works?)

Monday October 3, 1864

Some rain Towards evening. Went to the Yellow House with orders. Recieved a letter from my wife. Wrote to my wife. Worked until 1 A.M.

Tuesday October 4, 1864

Hot day. Recieved a paper from my wife. Recieved ¼ Ream paper from Shellington. Worked from 1 to 6 P.M.

Wednesday October 5, 1864

Hot Day. Wrote to Geo W. Cochran for pouches $2.00. Recieved my paper + envelopes from Shellington. Wrote to Shellington. Wrote to Platner + Smith. Worked on the Fort all day.

Thursday October 6, 1864

Beautiful day. Worked all day on the fort. Recieved a paper from my wife.

Friday October 7, 1864

Beautiful day. Worked all day getting out Abatis Stuff for the Fort.


Cool day. Very windy. Recieved a letter from my wife. Wrote to my wife + sent $10.00 for a watch. Worked all day on the Fort.


Cold + Windy. Worked until noon on the Fort and finished it. Recieved my stamps from Washington.


Cool + Windy. Heavy frost last night. Done some slashing (Editor: or "washing") during the forenoon. Recieved marching orders + for Fort McMahon after dinner.


Beautiful day. Worked all day on Fort Blaisdell. Recieved a letter from my Sister Malvina + a reciept (sic: receipt) from Snyder + Co for my Boots.


Beautiful day. Worked all day on Fort Blaisdell. Rained in the evening. Recieved my Pouches from Washington.


Cold + Windy. Wrote to Malvina Bruso + to Mary Bruso. Recieved a letter from my Wife.


Cool + pleasent. Wrote to my wife. Worked all day getting out poles + abattis (sic: abatis) stuff.


Beautiful day. Excused from duty. Unwell. Wrote to Geo. W. Cochran + sent $2.50 for Tobacco. Recieved a letter from my Wife.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my Wife. Wrote to Madame Huntley (Editor: unclear) at Detroit. Worked until 11 A.M. Went to City Point with Lt. Pollard. Wrote to Shellington for Paper + Envelopes $5.00


Beautiful day. Worked in the forenoon on Fort McMahon. Went down to City Point to see about my Boots.


Pleasent + Cool. Recieved a letter from my Wife. Qui ma font de la peine (Editor: French) Recieved a letter from J.B. McGregor. My Birth day. Worked all day on Fort McMahon.


Pleasent + Cool. Recieved a note from my wife. Wrote to my Wife and to James McGregor. Worked all day on Fort McMahon. Commissioners of Elections here and I voted the true Union Ticket.


Cool + Cloudy. Wrote to J.W. Stephens 172 71st St NY (Editor: unclear) . Worked all day on Fort McMahon.


Beautiful day. Wrote to Banks Printer Park (Editor: unclear) Avenue. Done my washing. Worked all day of Fort McMahon. Recieved our clothing from Washington.


Cold Windy Day. Recieved my Tobacco + Pouch from Cochran. Wrote to Cochran for pouches and sent $2.00. Geo. W. Eastwood (Editor: unclear) . Promoted to Sergt.


Beautiful Day. Inspection at 9 A.M. Went down to City Point. Wrote to Alex Lubor (Editor: unclear) for my gloves.


Pleasent day. Cut Corduroy + Abattis (sic: abatis) all day to finish Fort McMahon. Wrote to Geo. W. Cochran for pouches $2.00


Beautiful + Cool Day. Recieved marching orders from Fort McMahon + left for Hd Qrts. Was sent to Co C + L in the morning by the Capt. Recieved a letter from my Wife. Arrived beyond the Yellow House at 11 A.M. Wrote to my wife.


Beautiful Day. Sent a Leslie to my Wife. Packed up + ready for a march all day. Called up at 12 o clock P.M.


Pleasent Day. Left our camp at 3 A.M. for the Rifle Pits near Fort Welch. Heavy fighting all the forenoon + afternoon. Layed (sic: laid) in the Rifle Pits all night. Rained in the night.


Pleasent + Windy. Layed (ed: laid) in the Pits until 5 P.M. when the Army returned from its Reconnoissance (sic: reconnaissance) and we returned to our old camp near the Yellow House.


Beautiful Day. Worked in the forenoon on a Detail and in the afternoon building us a Hut. recieved 2 letters from my wife + my Gloves from Washington.


Beautiful day. Recieved a paper from my Wife a letter from New York And my stationary from Washington. Wrote to my Wife. Wrote to Shellington + sent $5.00.


Beautiful Day. Mustered for pay at 8 A.M. recieved two letters from my Wife and one from Mary Bruso. Wrote to my Wife. Ordered to report to Mr. Chase of the Christian Commission tomorrow morning with 10 men.

Tuesday November 1, 1864

Pleasent day. Left camp at 7 A.M. with 10 Men. Worked all day putting a Chapel and getting out lumber for a Store Room. Attended meeting in the Chapel. My Company left Camp for the Avery House.

Wednesday November 2, 1864

Pleasent most all the forenoon and it commenced to Rain at 11 A.M. Commenced putting up the Store Room. Worked only ½ a day on account of the rain. Rained all night.

Thursday November 3, 1864

Wet + Rainy. Did not work all day on account of rain.

Friday November 4, 1864

Windy all day. Worked all day on the Store Room. Put one office Tent.

Saturday November 5, 1864

Windy all day. Finished the Store Room. Build a Stable for 6 Horse + put up 1 wall Tent. Returned to Camp from the Christian Commission at evening. recieved a letter from my Sister Malvina. Recieved a box from my loved wife with buttons + c.

Sunday November 6, 1864

Beautiful day. Wrote to my Wife, to my sister Malvina, To my Cousin Mary and to Miss Jennie S. White by Garrettsville Portage Co. Ohio. Recieved two papers from my Wife.

Monday November 7, 1864

Rainy all day. Wrote to the Express Co’s (Editor: unclear) at Washington. Built a Chimney in our Hut. Resolved to do better + return to my allegiance to God.


Pleasent Day. Wrote to Shillington. The whole Company out on a Detail in the afternoon.


Pleasent + Windy. In charge of a Detail digging a well. Recieved a letter from my wife, with 25 stamps + Henry’s Picture.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my Wife. Company drill in the morning + Battallion in the afternoon.


Beautiful day. Battallion (sic: battalion) detail (Editor: or "picture") in the forenoon + drill in the afternoon. Dress Parade. Recieved a letter from my Wife.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my Wife. The Batt’l on Police duty all day. Excused did not feel well.


Beautiful day. Got a Pass and called on Capt Sudborough of the 17th Mich and also Capt Geo Montieth (sic: Monteith) Asst. Adjt Genl on Genl Hopkins (Editor: unclear) Staff.

Dress Parade at 4 P.M.

George Monteith (right)http://bentley.umich.edu/research/guides/civilwar/civilwar_search.php?id=254

(Note: According to the Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan, George Monteith of Adrian, MI was a first lieutenant in Company G, 4th Michigan Infantry; aide-de-camp on the staff of General Porter; captain in Company E; acting assistant adjutant general, Second Brigade, First Division, Fifth Army Corps; captain and assistant adjutant general in U.S. Volunteers.)


Beautiful Day. Out on a Battallion (sic: battalion) Detail in the forenoon. Dress Parade in the evening. Wrote to my Loving wife.


Beautiful Day. Non-com drill. Drilled the new Men in the morning. recieved my Boots. Recieved a letter from C.M. Buck (Editor: unclear, possibly "Buel"). Corp’l of the Guard on 2d Relief. recieved my Addressed Env.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to Sneider + Lauhor (Editor: unclear). Came off from Guard at 5 P.M.


Beautiful Day. Went to Fort Welch in the forenoon to put a Tripp (Editor: unclear) Fence. Wrote to my Wife. And to Berlin + Lowes (Editor: unclear). Recieved my stationary from Washington.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to the Ladies Repository and to Geo C. ____ (Editor: unclear) Box 52 Washington. Sent a letter to my wife with 1 pr stockings. Recieved letter from my wife and my watch also!


Rain all day + all night. Wrote to my wife. Left Camp for Fort Stevenson to take a Train. Sent my Watch to Washington.

PAGES MISSING FROM DIARY: November 20-25, 1864


Beautiful Day. Worked all day in Fort Stevenson. Capt Hine returned from Furlough.


Pleasent Day. Inspection at 10 o clock. Wrote to Mary Bruso. Recieved a letter from my Wife, from my Brother Augustin and from Sneider + Co. Went after the mail and got my watch. Recieved my paper + Env.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my wife + to my Brother Augustin. Wrote to Higgins (Editor: unclear) Co Room 62 National Hotel. L. P. Rigby died. I called on him last evening.

RIGBY, LUMAN P.—Age, 31 years. Enlisted, August 23, 1864, at Nanticoke; mustered in as private, Co. E , August 23, 1864, to serve one year; died of disease, November 28, 1864, at Poplar Grove Church, Va. (Report of the Adjutant General)


Beautiful Day. Wrote to Henry Inman.


Beautiful Day. Started for City Point in Charge of Ordinance Stores in the morning + turned them over to Ord. Officers. Stayd with Lt. Roosa overnight.

Thursday December 1, 1864

Beautiful Day. Left City Point for Camp at 10 A.M. The Ponton Trains move up from Fort Stevenson to the Regimental Hd Qts. Wrote to Cochran’s for Tobacco. Recieved a letter from my wife.

Friday December 2, 1864

Beautiful Day. Wrote to my wife. Worked all day in the woods getting out Tent Timber.

Saturday December 3, 1864

Pleasent + Windy. Worked in the woods during the forenoon. Came on Guard at 5 P.M. Orderly at Headquarters.

Sunday December 4, 1864

Most Delightful day. Dress Parade at 4 P.M. Relieved from duty at 5 P.M. Recieved a letter from the Repository.

Monday December 5, 1864

Beautiful Day. Worked all day in the woods getting out Tent material. Recieved a letter from my Sister Malvina + from Higgins + Co.

Tuesday December 6, 1864

Beautiful Day. Worked all day putting up winter quarters.

Wednesday December 7, 1864

Rainy Day. Worked all the forenoon on Tents (Editor: unclear) . Recieved marching orders + packed-up. But did not leave. Recieved my tobacco from Washington.


Beautiful day. Wrote to my dear Wife. Worked all day on our winter quarters.


Very Cool Day. Worked all day on our winter quarters. Got orders to pack up at 3 P.M. + 60 rounds of ammunition. I was ordered to City Point on official Business. Snowed and rained all night. Very cold.


Pleasent but very muddy! at City Point! Returned to Camp at 7 P.M. The Reg’t Gone!


Chilly Day. Wrote to my dear Wife and to my sister. Left for City Point at 2 P.M. Stopped all night at Lt. McNaught. Very Cold and windy all night.


Cold + Windy. Wrote to Alex Labor (Editor: unclear) at City Point. Returned from City Point at 7 P.M. The Regiment returned. Recieved two letters from my Wife.


Pleasent day. (Editor: crossed out text: "Wrote to my dear wife and to my home fathers" ?) Wrote to my dear Wife. Orderly for Col. Spalding (sic: Spaulding).


Beautiful Day. Orderly all day. Relieved from duty at 5 P.M.


Beautiful Day. Worked all day making Stools and arranging other matters in my Tent.


Beautiful + mild day. Worked all day in the woods getting out Timber. Recieved a letter from my dear wife. Also one from Henry Inman.


Beautiful Day. Wrote to my Wife and to Henry Inman. Worked hard all day on the Captain’s Stable.


Pleasent day. Inspection at 9 A.M. recieved a letter from Mary Bruso in the Evening. A Salute of 100 Guns fired at Petersburg in the morning in honor of the Nashville Victory.


Rainy in the forenoon + pleasent the rest of the day. Wrote to Mary Bruso. Did not feel very well in the morning but felt better the latter part of the day. Recieved a letter from my dear Wife informing me of the death of my friend Martha Lapp.


Cool + Pleasent Day. Wrote to my dear Wife. Went to work in the forenoon at the Observatory near Fort Welch. Went out in the woods in the afternoon to get some poles for Street Corduroy.


Bad Day. Rained most all day. Went out to get some wood in the Evening. In Camp all the rest of the day.


Cold + windy Day. Worked all day at the Observatory near Fort Welch.


Pleasent + Cool day. Washed in the forenoon. Was taken with the chills and was pretty sick all the afternoon. The Doctor came to see me in the Evening. Took some Powder + a mustard Bath.


Beautiful Day. Felt better Today. Left for the Hospital at two o’clock P.M. Arrived there at 4 P.M.


Pleasent Day. At the Brigade Hospital. Had a good dinner at 3 P.M. Returned to Camp at 9 P.M. recieved my Dress Coat from Washington. And also a Great Coat from Fred Bonneville (sic: Bonville). Rained some during the night. Getting better again.


Cloudy + Rainy. In Camp all day. Almost well again. Wrote to my dear Wife.


Beautiful Day. Nothing done by the 1st Squad today. Perfectly well again.


Pleasent most all Day + some Rain in the afternoon. Went out in charge of the Squad to work on the Observatory. Was taken with the chills again today and felt miserable. Lt. Howard broke his wrist.

HOWARD, AMOS.—Age, 23 years. Enlisted, August 31, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co., G, September 6, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; promoted corporal, January 30, 1862; re-enlisted, January 31, 1864; promoted sergeant, March 1, 1864; mustered in as second lieutenant, December 27, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, V a.; commissioned second lieutenant, November 30, 1864, with rank-from October 20, 1864, vice Kenyon, promoted. (Report of the Adjutant General)


(Editor: Writing scratched through)

Cloudy and Cool. Under Medical care sick in Camp! Felt a great deal better towards night. Snowed a little in the afternoon.


Cold Day. Recieved a letter from my Wife, from my sister + from Line (Editor: Line? Sine?). Felt some better Today took the same medicine as yesterday.


Rainy Day. Wrote to my wife. To Line (Editor: Sine? Line?) and to Mary Bidelman. Wrote to Shellington-wrote to my sister. Wrote to Cochran at Washington. Mustered for 4 months. Felt about the same as yesterday. Attended the Entertainment at the hospital in the Evening.


Recieved a letter from my dear Wife.

Monday January 2, 1865

Chilly Day. All quiet in Camp-Dinner given in the Hospital. Felt pretty well during the ___ (Editor: day?), but had the chills again in the night.

Tuesday January 3, 1865

Pleasent day- In Camp all day. Sick. Felt much better towards night. Recieved a letter from my Brother Augustin.

Wednesday January 4, 1865

Pleasent day. Snowed a little in the afternoon. Grand Review of the 2d Corps. Reported for duty today. Went out to work in charge of 2 squads to work on the Observatory. Wrote

to my brother Augustin.

Thursday January 5, 1865

Cool day. Out in the woods all day. Getting out wood with the 1st Squad.

Friday January 6, 1865 (crossed out)

Cold + Windy. Went out in the woods + came back to go to the observatory and came back in the woods again + cut wood the rest of the day.

Friday January 6, 1865

Out with the Squad most all day. Rained hard most all day obliged to come in from the woods. recieved a letter from my dear wife dated Dec 30th 1864. Promotions were read-off at roll-call. Promoted to a Sergeant to date from Jan’y 1st. Was taken with the fever again while out to work. Feel pretty bad.

Saturday January 7, 1865

Pleasent but Windy. recieved a letter from T. G. Corbett and my Tobacco + paper from Washington. Wrote to my Wife. To Cochran, and to Tom Corbett. Recieved a letter from Geo. W. Cochran + Co.

Sunday January 8 1865

Beautiful Day-Inspection at 9 A.M. recieved a letter from my dear Wife. Attended preaching on the Parade Ground. Wrote to my Wife. recieved another letter from my Wife by the Evening mail.


Pleasent + Warm all day. Mailed a letter to my wife. Out with the 1st Squad getting out wood.

Tuesday January 10, 1865

Rained hard all night and all day. Went out after wood at 10 A.M. and got Wet through. Did not feel very good all the rest of the day. Cleared off at night.

Wednesday January 11, 1865

Beautiful day. In Camp all day with my Squad, got no teams (Editor: unclear). Recieved a letter from Mary Bruso by the Evening Mail.

Thursday January 12, 1865

Beautiful Day. Mailed a letter to Mary Bruso with a note for Aunty. In Camp all the forenoon. Fred Bonneville (sic: Bonville) + Vashing (Editor: unclear) Of Co H visited me + went out to Fort Welch with Fred. They left for home at 4 o’clock P.M.

Friday January 13, 1865

Written in the winter of 1864 (French): Dieu est le createur du ciel et de la Terre. Les cheveaux de Madamoisselle arrie sant freize (Editor: this is unclear. Possible translation: God is the creator of heaven and earth. The horses of St Freize Madamoisselle miracle.)

Beautiful Day. Out all day getting wood for the Company. Recieved a letter from my dear Wife and one from Cochran’s with a pipe.

Saturday January 14, 1865

Pleasent day. Mailed a letter to my dear Wife. Out in the woods until 2 P.M. getting wood with 8 of my men + then came to Camp to Corduroy the Major’s Stable.


Beautiful Day. Inspection at 9 A.M. In Camp all day-No preaching today.


Beautiful Day. Out to work all day on the observatory. recieved a Box from my dear wife with many good things and this diary. .

The soldiers listed here are listed, or possibly listed at the end of the diary in what appears to be an accounting of money they borrowed. Where multiple given names precede one surname, I have listed every soldier sharing a surname, i.e. "Crawford."

Of course, Octave served with "E" company, and where surnames repeat, I have indicated the most likely person(s) with an asterisk.

The following are all from the Report of the Adjutant General:

AKER, WILLIAM.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, September 6, 1862, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, September 6/ 1862, to serve three years; promoted artificer, April 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as William Acker.

BAILEY, JAMES—Age, 20 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as

private, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; appointed bugler, March 27, 1862; reduced, May 14, 1862; promoted artificer, January 1,1863; re-enlisted as artificer, January 21,1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va, as James W. Bailey.

*BANDER, ANSON H.—Age, 22 years. Enlisted, August 26,1861, at Maine; mustered in as corporal, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; promoted sergeant, February 1, 1863; re-enlisted, January 21,1864; mustered in as first lieutenant, December 27,1864; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, V a . ; commissioned first lieutenant, November 30, 1864, with rank from October 30, 1864, vice Pollard, mustered out.

*BANDER, EDWARD T.—Age, 22 years. Enlisted, August 29, 1864, at Nanticoke; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29, 1864, to serve one year; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

BREWSTER, FRANK W.—Age, 19 years, Enlisted, September 9, 1861, at Savona; mustered in as private, Co. A , September 11, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; promoted artificer, January 1, 1863; re-enlisted, January 21, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va .

CARR, CHARLES.—Age, 21 years. Enlisted, September 14, 1861, at Savona; mustered in as private, Co. A , September 17, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; re-enlisted, December 20, 1863; promoted artificer, October 1,1864; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as Charles D. Carr.

*CRAWFORD, ABRAHAM—Age, 21 years. Enlisted, August 18, 1862, at Elmira; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 18, 1862, to serve three years; mustered out, July 12, 1865, at Elmira, N.Y. , as Abram Crawford.

CRAWFORD, CHARLES H.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, February 13,1864, at Owego; mustered in as private, Co. I, February 13, 1864, to serve three years; mustered out with company; June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

CRAWFORD, CHARLES P.—Age, 20 years. Enlisted, February 6, 1864, at Chemung; mustered in as private, Co. K , February 6, 1864, to serve three years; promoted artificer, July 21; 1864; corporal, December 1,1864; mustered out with company; June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.; prior service, Co. C, Thirty seventh Pennsylvania Militia.

CRAWFORD, CHAUNCEY.—Age, 40 years. Enlisted, February 13, 1864, at Spencer; mustered in as private, Co. I, February 13,1864, to serve three years; died of disease, November 14, 1864, at Poplar Grove Church, Va.

CRAWFORD, ELIH.—Age, 21 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29,1861, to serve three years; re-enlisted, December 20, 1863; promoted artificer, April 7, 1865; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort

Barry, Va.

*CRAWFORD, JOHN.—Age, 40 years. Enlisted, August 27, 1861, at Pittsford; mustered in as corporal, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; reduced, date not stated; discharged for disability, April 30,1862, at Camp Woodbury, Va.

CRAWFORD, JOHN T.—Age, 22 years. Enlisted, February 24, 1864, at New York; mustered in as private, Co. K , February 24, 1864, to serve three years; appointed musician, April 28, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

CUMMINGS, MANLY L.—Age, 23 years. Enlisted, August 28, 1862, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E , August 28,1862, to serve three years; promoted artificer, date not stated; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as Manley L. Cumings.

DECKER , ABRAM..—Age, 22 years. Enlisted, January 16, 1864, at Owego; mustered in as private, Co. M, to date January 16, 1864, to serve three years; promoted artificer, April 8,1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.; also borne as Abram C. Decker.

DECKER , IRA.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, August 23, 1861, at Union; mustered in as private, Co. H, September 7, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. I, November 1, 1861; promoted artificer, date not stated re-enlisted, December 26,1863; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

DECKER, JAMES R.—Age, 38 years. Enlisted, August 7, 1861, at Elmira; mustered in as private, Co. B, August 16, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. H , November 1, 1861; discharged for disability, December 14, 1.861, at Washington, D. C.

DECKER, JOHN 0.—Age, 31 years. Enlisted, August 22, 1862, at Linley; mustered in as private, Co. F, August 22, 1862, to serve three years; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va .

*DECKER, JOSEPH D. Age, 18 years. Enlisted, September 3, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. F , September 6,1861, to" serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; re-enlisted, December 26, 1863; promoted artificer, date not stated; corporal, February 15, 1865; mustered out with company, June 13,1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

DECKER, LEVI.—Age, 43 years. Enlisted, February 23,1864, at Barrington; mustered in as private, Co. B, February 23, 1864, to serve three years; died of disease, September 4, 1864, at Washington, D. C.

DECKER, WILLIAM..—Age, 31 years. Enlisted, August 25, 1864, at Dansville; mustered in as private, Co. C, August 25, 1864, to serve one year; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

HICKS, SPENCER,—Age, 39 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1801, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; re-enlisted, January 21, 1861; promoted artificer, April 1, 1861; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

HOWARD, CHARLES . — Age , 18 years. Enlisted, August 20, 1864, at Woodhull; mustered in as private, Co. I, August 29, 1864, to serve one year; died of disease, November 15, 1864, at City Point, Va.

*HOWARD, CHARLES O.—Age, 26 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as corporal, Co . E , August 29,1861, to serve three years; reduced, January 21, 1862; mustered out, September 20,1864, at Elmira, N.Y .

HOWARD, CHESTER.—Age, 19 years. Enlisted, August 13, 1864, at. Union; mustered in as private, Co. E , August 13, 1864, to serve one year; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

McARDLE, JAMES , see James McCardle.

McGREGOR, JAMES.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, August 26, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Go. C, September 7, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E , November 1, 1861; promoted artificer, date not stated; mustered out, September 20,1864, at Elmira, N.Y .

OWEN, WILLIAM. S.—Age, 21 years. Enlisted, August 29, 1861, at Elmira; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 29, 1861, to serve three years; promoted artificer, date not stated;re-enlisted, December 20, 1863; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

*PAYNE, ANSON W.—Age, 21 years. Enlisted, September 2, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. F , September 6, . 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; promoted artificer, date not stated; re-enlisted, December 26, 1863; reduced, June 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va .

PAYNE, HEMANN.—Age, 28 years. Enlisted, January 5,1864, at Chenango; mustered in as private, Co. A , January 5, 1864, to serve three years; promoted artificer, date not stated; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va., as Heman Payne.

SEABURY, J . MORGAN.—Age, 24 years. Enlisted, August 30, 1862, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E , August 30,1862, to serve three years; promoted artificer, date not stated; corporal, April 1, 1864; mustered in as second lieutenant, Co. C, September 22, 1864; resigned January 14, 1865; commissioned second lieutenant, February 17, 1864, with rank of same date, vice J . J . Carroll, resigned; not mustered; again commissioned second lieutenant, August 22, 1864, with rank from July 1, 1864,

vice Gwynne, promoted.

THORNTON, MASON.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, August 20, 1861, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. F, September 6, 1861, to serve three years; transferred to Co. E, November 1, 1861; re-enlisted, December 26, 1863; promoted artificer, April 1, 1864; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

WILCOX , ETHIEL.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, August 30, 1864, at Malone; mustered in as private, Co. C, August 30, 1864, to serve one year; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.; also borne as Ithiel Wilcox.

*WILCOX , GEORGE F.—Age, 26 years. Enlisted, August 13, 1862, at Maine; mustered in as private, Co. E , August 13,1862, to serve three years; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

WILCOX , GEORGE R.—Age, 18 years. Enlisted, January 15, 1864, at Owego; mustered in as private, Co. M , to date January 15, 1864, to serve three years; appointed musician, date notstated; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va .

WILCOX , HOMER.—Age, 19 years. Enlisted, March 15, 1865, at Rochester; mustered in as private, unassigned, March 15, 1865, to serve one year; mustered out with detachment, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.|WILCOX, JOHN.—Age, 42 years. Enlisted, August 25, 1864, at Horseheads; mustered in as private, Co. G, September 2,, 1864, to serve one year; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va .

WILCOX , LEWIS.—Age, 38 years. Enlisted, August 28, 1862, at Rome; mustered in as private, Co. C, September 11, 1862, to serve three years; shot, December 11, 1862, while laying pontoon bridges at Fredericksburg, Va.

WILCOX , WARREN.—Age, 31 years. Enlisted, September 2, 1864, at Auburn; mustered in as private, unassigned, Fifteenth Engineers, September 2, 1864, to serve one year; transferred to Co. I, this regiment, date not stated; mustered out with company, June 13, 1865, at Fort Barry, Va.

There is also an inscription of:

"11304 Watch" which may have been the serial number of the timepiece Octave received.

Also, there is a note on the end cover of the diary which reads: "L.A. Kingsley, Binghamton NY"

Additional information regarding Octave Bruso:

Octave Bruso, born October 17, 1837 in St. Luc, Quebec (Source: La Societe Genealogique Canadienne-Francaise, Montreal.); died December 24, 1897 in Buffalo, NY. He was the son of Francois Brosseau and Marie Salomee Duquet. He married Charlotte Henry Pierce on February 16, 1864 in Methodist Episcopal Church, Black Rock, Buffalo, NY.

Charlotte Henry Pierce, born July 18, 1844 in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada; and died August 14, 1926 in Buffalo, NY. She was the adopted daughter of Clark Pierce and Ruth M. Rice.

Octave Brosseau was born within the St. Luc Parish of Montreal on October 18, 1837. His parents, Francois Brosseau and Marie Salomee Duquette moved to Kankakee County, Illinois between 1848-1852. It is unknown whether Octave came with his parents to Illinois, but Octave did arrive in Buffalo during the 1850's. His obituary (1897) stated that he had been in Buffalo, NY for 43 years, and put his arrival in Buffalo in 1854, when he would have been around 17.

For some reason, the name Brosseau morphed into Bruso. A curiously Italianate transition, given the times.

Why Buffalo? The answer: opportunity! Buffalo was thriving and growing in the 1850's. In 1835, the population of Buffalo was 15,661. By 1850 this number had swelled to 42,261, and almost doubled again by 1860 to 81,129. This exciting time is captured by Dr. Hermann Sass in his book about pioneer developer Jesse Ketchum, "The Bountiful Baron of Buffalo" (1984, second edition, page 23):

"The years from the mid-1840's to the 1850's were the most active Buffalo had ever seen, and trade and manufacturing, navigation and railroad building flourished. Elevators, factories, mills, mercantile blocks, residences, churches and school-houses went up, and the city became an intra-continental and international metropolis. Fleets of steamers and sailing craft brought to her doors the products of the West, which were transferred at Buffalo from lake boats to canal boats or railways...Buffalo was the main artery of trade between the East and West."

City Directories show a Peter Bruso in Buffalo in 1853, working as a sawyer at Townsend's Steam Saw Mill on Tonawanda Street. By 1859 Peter, Antoine, Frederick and Louis Bruso were listed in these directories, and these men were all noted in the Federal Census of 1860, but Octave is not listed as being in Buffalo.

Octave was listed as living in Adrian, Michigan for the 1860 Census. In the diary, Octave mentions several men from Adrian, so his connection to that place seems to have been more than simply transitory.

On August 10, 1861, a battle was fought at Wilson's Creek, Missouri.

On November 11, 1861, Octave joined the 5th Missouri Infantry, Company G.

Librarian Jeffrey Patrick of the National Park Service at Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Missouri writes:

"I found Octave Bruso in the listings of the 5th Missouri Infantry. He apparently enlisted in November 1861, in the 5th U.S. Reserve Corps, which subsequently became the 5th Missouri. The 5th Missouri Infantry that was engaged at the Battle of Wilson's Creek was a three-month or 90-day unit. After that regiment was mustered out, the three-year 5th Missouri Infantry was formed. Your ancestor joined the latter unit."

The following comes from his file at the National Archives in D.C.:

"Headquarters 5th Regt. Inftry. Mo. Vol. Camp Merrill nea Sulphur Springs. Sept. 25, 1862. Brig. Genl. Davidson, USA, Comdg. St. Louis Division. General: I received a communication this morning from your A.A. Genl. to the effect, that Sergt. Bruso of my Regt. was arrested as a deserter under Genl. Orders 65 War Dept. and that also I myself will be tried for disobedience of same orders. At any time ready to obey orders, I would most respectfully request your information, whether I have to consider myself under arrest or not in consequence of said communication; if not I am induced to consider the above only as a warning to be carefull (sic) in regard to the issue of passes. Coincident with said case of Sergt. Bruso I have to make the following preamble: I did never receive Genl. Orders 65, War Department, neither did I ever notice said order in the newspapers. Nevertheless I am posted enough to know, how I have to act in regard to the issue of passes for absentees; and in the case of Sergt. Bruso I have to remind you of that general order, in accordance of which every soldier of the Volunteers has the right to be transferred to the gunboat-service. Sergt. Bruso received the appointment in the gunboat service and on account of his written certificates my Adjut. wrote him a leave of absence to arrange this matter satisfactorily in consequence of said Genl. Order. Now I leave it to you to decide, whether I have done my duty or not; in all events you would oblige me, to accept my signature as, Your most obediant (sic) servant, Aug. H. Paten, Col. Comdg. 5th Regt. Mo. Vols. Inf."

Another note in the file reads:

"Sulphur Springs, Sept. 25th, 1862. Paten, A.H. Col. 5th Inftry. Mo. Vols. Has rec'd com. from Capt. Griffing A.A.G. in relation to the arrest of Sgt. Brusso (sic) of his Regt. as deserter, under Gen'l Ord. 65, War Dept., asks if he is to consider himself as under arrest in consequence of said com. States that he has never rec'd Gen'l Orders No. 65 War Dept. nor has he ever seen 'it' in print. States circumstances wh' led to the issuing of Seg't Brusso's pass-Serg't Brusso, it appears, not being to blame in this matter will be released from arrest, and ordered to join his company. Col. Paten is not considered on arrest. J.W. Davidson (Brigade?) Gen'l"

"Headquarters 5th Regt. Infantry, Mo. Volunteers. Camp Curtis near Pilot Knob, Mo., Oct. 7, (18)62. Brig. Genl. Davidson. Comdg. St. Louis District. Genl: Orderly Sergeant

Octave Bruso of Comp. G of this Regt. deserted the Regt. about 2 weeks ago and he likewise defrauded the government for about 59 pounds of coffee. I caused him to be arrested and he is now confined in Adrian, Michigan in the jail by F.J. Hough, County Sheriff. Therefore I would most respectfully request you, to cause Octave Bruso to be brought in irons to this post. I am, General, your most obedient servant, E. Strodtman, Lieut. Col. Comng. 5th Regt. Mo. Vols. Inf."

Additionally, another note reads: "Pilot Knob-Oct. 7, 1862. Strodtman, E. Lt. Col. 5th Mo. Vols. Requests that Seg't Octave Bruso, a deserter from comp. G, who has been arrested and is now confined in jail at Adrian, Michigan, be brought to the post in irons."

There is no further information available regarding Octave’s experience in the Missouri regiment, though Octave’s 1864 diary does refer to “papers from St. Louis.”

In July of 1862, during the American Civil War, Colonel John B. Stuart left the Virginia camp of the 50th NY Engineers to recruit fresh troops ("Bridge Building In Wartime: Colonel Wesley Brainerd's Memoir of the 50th New York Volunteer Engineers," Edited by Ed Malles, University of Tennessee Press, Knoxville, 1997).

Recruiting advertisements appeared in the Buffalo newspapers four months later, in November and December 1862. The ad in the Daily Courier of December 8, 1862 reads:

"The Stuart Cavalry: The late order of the War Department, defining the organization of Regiments and Companies of Volunteer Engineers. War Department, Adjutant General's Office, Washington, October 31st, 1862. The Regiments and Companies of Volunteer Engineers recognized by the 30th section of the Act of July 17th, 1862, will have the following organizations: ....64 privates for a company of engineers. The above order includes the 50th Regiment New York Volunteer Engineers, Charles B. Stuart commanding, which now has more than eleven hundred men in the ranks. This order increases its number to eighteen hundred enlisted men, making, when filled to the maximum strength including its officers, eighteen hundred and sixty eight men. Col. Stuart has during the past two months recruited and sent forward to his regiment more than four hundred men, chiefly mechanics, many of them from his county. This new order authorizes him to enlist seven hundred more, which he hopes to accomplish before the draft is made in the districts where the quota is not filled, the extra pay and rank of Engineer Corps commend this opportunity specially to mechanics and boatmen. For further information, apply to Sgt. Herman Dean, 295 Main St."

On Monday, December 8, 1862 (Report of the Adjutant General), at the age of 25 Octave enlisted at Buffalo as a private in Company E of the 50th Regiment of NY Engineers, to serve three years. Two days later, well before Octave could have been involved, this regiment suffered 9 combat deaths and 40 injuries in the Battle of Fredericksburg, but E Company was stationed at Washington and Belle Plain during this engagement. Two weeks after Octave's enlistment, Col. Brainerd, who had been wounded at Fredericksburg, met with Col. Stuart during Christmas 1862, and Brainerd commented that Stuart "was recruiting for the Regiment and was very successful in raising men."

(Brainerd, p. 124) Octave was one of those new recruits.

Less than two months after enlisting, on February 1, 1863 Octave was promoted to the rank of corporal.

Brainerd writes: "Colonel Stuart returned to the headquarters of the Regiment at Acquia Creek about the first of March, having been absent since the July previous, a period of about seven months. He had recruited quite a large number of men for the Regiment, including a band." (Brainerd, p.131) Is this when Octave's company arrived in Virginia?

Company muster roll records state that Octave was detached with a pontoon train on April 27, 1863 for service at Belle Plain. A May 16, 1863 letter from H.W. Benham, Lieutenant Colonel of Engineers and Brigadier General to General Joseph G. Totten, Chief of Engineers (War of the Rebellion series) describes the building of 14 bridges across the Rappahannock at Fredericksburg between April 28 and May 5, 1863 under violent rains and Confederate shelling.

On May 4, 1863 Octave returned from the pontoon train assignment, and was present with his company from May to November of 1863. He was granted a 10 day furlough from Rappahannock Station, Virginia beginning December 24, 1863 for the Christmas holiday, by order of General Meade. This was apparently reduced to a six day furlough, as he returned to his company on New Year's Day, 1864.

Within a month, by order of the Governor of New York, Octave was absent on furlough for thirty days, beginning on January 26, 1864. This is the point where Octave’s diary begins.

During this break from military service, on February 16, 1864, the 26 year old corporal married 19 year old Charlotte Henry Pierce in Buffalo. Charlotte's adoptive father was Clark Pierce, a ship carpenter and teamster then in his sixties.

Muster records confirm the newlywed was back with Company E for March and April, 1864. In March, a photographer visited the 50th NY Engineers at Rappahannock Station, and took pictures of the camp, its stockade entrance, officers, and pontoon wagons. These photographs are held by the US Military History Institute, Carlisle Barracks, PA.

During May and June, 1864, Octave was temporarily absent with entrenching tools. Records do not indicate his assignment, but a photograph exists of the 50th NY Engineers cutting a road on the south side of the North Anna River in Virginia in May 1864. In his application for a veteran's pension 25 years later, Octave would claim that in June 1864 he contracted "rheumatism from exposure and (?) laying in the wet and mud" in front of Petersburg. Was this a result of the road cutting assignment, where overnight accommodations would have been of a more temporary nature?

Octave returned to his company for July, when he was in charge of entrenching tools for the 6 Corps. A photograph was made of Officers of the 50th NY Engineers in July, 1864,

in front of Petersburg, VA. There is a man in the photo who bears a resemblance to Octave. Randy Hackenburg at the USAMHI writes in January 1999 that "the rank of corporal was that of an enlisted man, not a commissioned officer. Corporals and sergeants were considered non-commissioned officers. The man you circled is wearing an enlisted man's uniform, but no rank can be seen on it." Octave was present with his company through October, 1864. In November, 1864, a photographer made views of the Poplar Grove Church in front of Petersburg, built by the 50th, the headquarters, and Commissary Department. Octave was made sergeant the following month, on December 27, 1864.

A photographer was with the 50th in March, 1865, and photographed the officer's quarters and Poplar Grove Church, headquarters and surgeon's quarters in front of Petersburg. As the Civil War drew to a close, Octave served as Acting Quartermaster Sergeant during March through May 1865. He was mustered out of service with the rest of Company E on June 13, 1865 at Fort Barry, Va. During the course of the war, the 50th New York Engineers suffered regimental casualties of 20 killed in action, and 207 deaths due to disease.

Octave's discharge paper reads: "To All Whom It May Concern, Know ye, that Octave Bruso, a Sergeant of Captain George L. Kenyon, Company E, 50th Regiment of New York Engineer Volunteers, who was enrolled on the eighth day of December one thousand eight hundred and sixty two to serve three years or during the war, is hereby discharged from the service of the United States this thirteenth day of June, 1865, at Fort Barry, VA, by reason of Special Order No. 192. (3 words not readable). No objections to his being re-enlisted is known to exist. Said Octave Bruso was born at Montreal, in the state of Canada, is twenty five years of age, five feet five inches high, fair complexion, grey eyes, brown hair, and by occupation when enrolled, a merchant. Given at Fort Barry, Va., this thirteenth day of June 1865. (Signed) Stephen Chester, Lt. Col. 15th NYV Engineers (Note: Chester was a former POW who had been promoted to this rank on May 30, 1865), Com. Musters. (Signed) G. Kenyon (George L. Kenyon), Capt. 50th NYV Engineers."

Upon his return to Buffalo, 28 year old Octave found work as a clerk at the S.O. Barnum Variety Store on Main Street. Eleven months after his discharge from the Army his first child, Clark Frank (apparently named for the child's grandfathers, Clark Pierce and Francois Brosseau) was born. Octave, Charlotte, and little Clark Frank lived on North Washington ST (now West Avenue), apparently with Charlotte's adoptive parents.

Octave also became involved with the Masons, as a member of Washington Lodge 240 in Buffalo.

Thomas M. Savini, Director, librarian at the Chancellor Robert R Livingston Masonic Library of Grand Lodge (71 West 23rd Street, 14th floor, New York, NY 10010) wrote to me on November 30, 2010:

"He (Octave) joined the lodge in 1869. His Grand Lodge Registry number was 130099, and he was the 280th member of Washington Lodge. His age at the time was ...31. His

occupation is entered as ‘clerk.’ His birthplace is listed as ‘Montreal,’ and his residence, ‘Buffalo,’ no street address. He received his first Masonic degree on 25 February 1869; his second degree on 18 March 1869; and his third degree on 15 April 1869. The three degrees are the usual stages of membership each man goes through when he joins a Masonic lodge, corresponding (symbolically) to the old system of apprenticeship in medieval stonemasons’ guilds. When a man receives his third degree, he is called a Master Mason, and he is a full member of his lodge. He may vote and hold office within his own lodge, and he may visit other Masonic lodges around the world that share recognition with his home lodge. He is also eligible to join Masonic-related groups that require good standing in a Masonic lodge as a prerequisite. Many of these groups are organized under either the York Rite or the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Our Grand Lodge does not maintain records for members’ activities in these related groups.

Brother Bruso’s name appears on Washington Lodge’s annual return for 1897 in the ‘deceased members’ field, with the date of death matching the one you provided in your letter. This entry indicates that he was a member in good standing at the time of his death.

As I mentioned in my reply, I found a published 50 year anniversary of the lodge, printed in 1901. The history included a list of Past Masters of the lodge—Master of the Lodge is an office much like chairman of most other organizations, as opposed to the term ‘Master Mason.’ The master of the lodge is usually elected for a one-year term, during which time he presides over meetings and ceremonies of the lodge, sets the agenda, and generally runs the show. Brother Bruso’s name did not appear on a list of past masters of the lodge. There were some photographs in the book, but these were limited to past masters of the lodge. This is typical of many lodge histories—actually, it is common for printed lodge histories to be completely un-illustrated, particularly going back through the decades. I did scan a copy of the list of officers from the year when your ancestor joined the lodge, and from the year that he passed away. I also scanned the first few pages of the list of members of the lodge, a list which includes Brother Bruso’s name for the year 1869.

It is entirely possible that there are more pieces of information in the records of the lodge itself, and I hope that you will contact Washington Lodge directly, using the mailing address from my earlier message. You may want to include the years I found, and the Grand Lodge Registry number, which may assist the lodge secretary in searching his records."

In the Federal Census of 1870, the elderly Clark and Ruth Pierce are shown living with Octave, Charlotte, four year old Frank, and eight month old Mary. City directories show the families living at 362 North Washington, which became 1176 West Avenue. On December 27, 1871, Octave bought property at 150 Delavan AVE, near N. Washington (West AVE) from Clark Pierce for $500 (Liber 316, p. 188). The record of this sale was filed January 3, 1872. Less than a week later, on January 9, 1872, Clark Pierce died at 78. Two and a half years later, Ruth died. Octave and Charlotte were sued by the Erie Co. Saving Bank in Superior Court on July, 7 1878 (Liber 244, Page 138, Series to 1895,

Notice of Respondency to Action). They were represented by Sprague, Gorham, and Bacon. On September 23, 1878, Octave's mother Marie Salomee died in Illinois. On October 16, 1878 (Liber 285, P. 303) there was further action in Superior Court. Octave continued his work at Barnum's until 1880, when at 42 he gained an appointment as a Sealer of Weights and Measures for the City of Buffalo.

During the Common Council meeting of Monday, January 5, 1880 (Proceedings of the Council, City of Buffalo, 1880, p. 14), Octave was chosen to be one of three Sealers of Weights and Measures. The three evidently found that department in a state of disorganization, missing the basic tools with which it was supposed to function. A communication of Monday, January 12, 1880 (Proceedings of the Council, p. 37) reads:

"Gentlemen: Upon examination of the weights and measures belonging to the City of Buffalo, we find that there is short one (1) ten pound brass weight and one (1) half-pint measure. Also that the weights from four (4) pounds down are composed of part brass and part iron, and a number lost. The brass portion of them are in such a dilapidated condition that we consider them unfit for the use of the city, and therefore pray that we be authorized to purchase a new set at an expense not to exceed fifteen dollars. Very respectfully submitted, Octave Bruso, Edward M. Smith, William H. Higham, Sealers of Weights and Measures." Council approved the replacement of the defective devices. The three appointees so advised the council on February 16, 1880 (Proceedings of the Council, City of Buffalo, 1880, p. 116):

"In compliance with a resolution of your Honorable Body, passed January 12, authorizing us to procure a new set of weights for use of city sealers. We respectfully report that we have procured the same from Weeks and Ray, and would recommend that an order for $12.90 be drawn in their favor for the amount." This request was approved by council.

During the July 19, 1880 meeting (Proceedings,1880, p. 580) the Sealers of Weights and Measures informed the council that they had been ordered to move from their office:

"To the Honorable Common Council: Gentlemen, we would respectfully inform your Honorable Body that we have received notice to vacate our room in the police building, as the Commissioners want to use the same. And we respectfully ask your Honorable Body to designate some place to put the city property." This communication was received and referred to the Committee on public buildings.

During this period, Octave would have come into contact with 12th Ward Alderman John Conrad Hanbach. Hanbach's daughter Kate would marry Octave's son Frank in the years to come.

During the Monday, January 3, 1881 meeting (Proceedings, 1881, p. 15), Octave was re-elected as a Sealer of weight and measures.

In 1882, during the mayoralty of Grover Cleveland, Octave was paid for rendering a variety of services to the City of Buffalo. On Monday July 3, 1882 (Proceedings, 1882, p.

697) he earned $6.75 in Constable fees. That same day, July 3, 1882, his one and a half year old daughter Ethel Elizabeth died. On October 9, 1882 (Proceedings, 1882, p. 965), Octave was paid $2.00 for posting election notices. On October 23, 1882 (Proceedings, 1882, p. 1003) "Constable fees for Attorney's Department" netted Octave $10.95. He also earned $18.40 on December 11, 1882 (Proceedings, 1882, p. 1127) for repairing stoves at School 19.

1883 saw Octave assume the role of 11th Ward Constable, following a resignation. The former Constable wrote on January 15, 1883: "I herewith tender my resignation as Constable of the 11th Ward of the City of Buffalo from this date, and recommend appointment of Octave Bruso in my place." (Proceedings, 1883, p. 32). Octave received all 26 votes. On January 29, 1883 (Proceedings, 1883, p. 79) he was paid $4.00 as poll clerk for District 3, Ward 11. On April 16, 1883 (Proceedings, 1883, p. 294) he received $6.45 for "services for City Attorney's Department."

From 1882-1887 Octave was listed in City Directories as a Civil Constable for the 11th Ward. The job apparently had its tense moments. The May 5, 1883 edition of the Daily Courier reported: "A genuine case of eviction occurred on Illinois Street yesterday. William Riding and family had occupied the frame house, number 57, for over twenty five years. The land on which this house stands was deeded to the city of Buffalo many years ago by General Wadsworth. The city failed to improve or occupy the land, and the Ridings and another family named Wilcox squatted on it. By virtue of their long occupation they claim the right to take possession of it. It lies adjacent to the SS Jewett and Co. foundry and the latter firm about a year ago received permission from the city to close the street and remove the houses. The firm sent a number of notices to the Ridings to vacate, to which no attention was paid. Yesterday morning Constable Bruso, accompanied by a posse of men, went to the house with a warrant for ejectment issued by the municipal court. After serving it he proceeded to put the household goods into the street and barricade the doors and windows. Mrs. Riding and her son William were in the house, the latter being at breakfast. They resisted but were hustled out and placed under arrest. Mrs. Riding was taken before Justice O'Brian, who discharged her. The boy appeared before Justice King in the police court in the afternoon and was sent to jail to await trial for assault in he third degree. Mr. Riding stated that he paid $40 per year as taxes while he occupied the place."

"For Assaulting a Constable: William Riding and Thomas Harringer, charged with assault on Constable Bruso when he was trying to evict Mrs. Riding from the house on Illinois street yesterday afternoon, were before Judge (Thomas) King this morning. Harringer was discharged and Riding fined $5." (Buffalo Evening News, Saturday May 5, 1883, 4th Edition)

A month and a half later, on June 22, 1883, Octave's father Francois died in Illinois. Just over two months later, The Buffalo Evening News mentioned Octave in September 11, 1883's Fourth Edition:

"Squatter Sovereignty (note: 'Squatter Sovereignty' was the title of a play then in Buffalo.

An Irish comedy by Harrigan and Hart): Almost a Riot on the Island this Morning-An Agreement Brought About. Constable Bruso of the Municipal Court went down to the sea wall about half past eight this morning to tear down the house of John Botken, who was occupying the land of the B.N.Y. & P. railroad on the Island. Mr. Bruso had Captain Murphy and three men, and 9 carpenters furnished by the B., N.Y. & P., who had the necessary tools to tear the house down. The men had been on the scene but a few minutes when there was a crowd of 200 or more Island people who looked for business. The carpenters, who composed the largest part of Mr. Bruso's force, refused to undertake the job, as it looked too bold for a successful result. Mr. Spencer, the house-builder and mover, bought a strip of land back of the lot occupied by the B., N.Y. & P., and convinced Mr. Botken that it was better to move on to the strip for which he had paid and would give them without cost. They agreed and the Constable's posse withdrew."

The September 13, 1883 edition of the Daily Courier: "Not So Bad After All: Yesterday morning between 8 and 9 o'clock Constable Bruso of the municipal court, accompanied by some eight or nine carpenters furnished by the Buffalo, New York and Philadelphia Railroad company, three special officers, Josiah S. Spencer, contractor and house mover, and the captain of No. 9 precinct, proceeded to the island, near what is known as the sea wall, for the purpose of moving the house of a man named John Bodkin from some property recently purchased by the railroad company. On arriving at the scene of action they were met by some 200 or 300 of the islanders who for years have held undisputed possession of the property and settled thereon and who believing 'possession to be nine points of the law,' now refuse to resign quietly what they have held so long.. They appeared so determined and presented so bold a front that the carpenters furnished by the railroad company refused to begin the work of tearing down the house, which was to be the last resort provided the tenants declined to permit its being removed quietly. From the look of things it seemed at one time as if the officers of the law would have to retire to augment their forces, when a happy thought occurred to Mr. Spencer. After a short parley peace was proclaimed, the terms being the purchase by the contractor of a lot in the rear of the one on which the house stood, to which it would be moved by the railroad company. This concession settled the difficulty in this one instance, but it remains to be seen whether a like agreement will serve in the several cases still to be disposed of."

On September 24, 1883 (Proceedings, 1883, p. 815) fees earned by Octave for his work for the Attorney's Department amounted to $8.35. 1884 saw him continuing as Constable for the 11th Ward, as the newly elected Constable resigned before taking office. On December 8, 1883 (Proceedings, 1883, page. 1014), Philip Stutzman, Jr. wrote: "I hereby tender my resignation as Constable-elect of the 11th Ward of this city, and respectfully ask that the same be accepted. I would respectfully recommend that Octave Bruso be appointed to same. Respectfully, Philip Stutzman, Jr.". Octave received 15 of 23 votes.

On January 7, 1884, at Buffalo's City and County Hall, under the mayoralty of Jonathan Scoville, (Proceedings, 1884, p. 30) Octave was named as one of many Commissioners of Deeds for the year 1884. The Buffalo Express of Tuesday, January 8, 1884 reported on the meeting where Octave also gained appointment as Sgt. at Arms for the 1884 Council:

"The New Council: A Very Quiet Beginning of the Session of 1884. The first meeting of the common council for 1884 was held yesterday morning in the Council Chamber. It was as tame and mild as a circus lion with his teeth pulled, his claws trimmed, and his roar out of working order. There was no struggle in the organization, no oratory from the floor. Whereat the crowd of leisurely gentlemen who filled the room outside the rail appeared greatly disgusted; and the posse of six able-bodied policemen who were detailed for duty on the occasion had nothing to do but lean against the railing and watch the proceedings..." Later in 1884, (Proceedings, p. 1441) this appointment was amended to a two year term beginning January 1, 1885.

1884 was the year that Octave's 18 year old son Clark Frank began his study of medicine at the University of Buffalo Medical School at Main and Virginia Streets. Another son, Octave Augustine, was then entering his teen years. The younger Octave would serve as President of the Council in 1911.

On January 5, 1885 (Proceedings, 1885, p. 24) Octave was named Sergeant at Arms for the Common Council. March 16, 1885 (Proceedings, p. 294) saw Octave paid for "serving subpoenas, etc., for Attorney's Department" the amount of $13.65. On July 13, 1885 (Proceedings, 1885, p. 791) he received $32 for "services Attorney's Department."

In 1886, he was awarded another $29.15 on July 2 (Proceedings, 1886, p. 829) for Constable's fees for the Attorney's Department. On Dec. 6, 1886: (Proceedings, 1886, p. 1386) his constable's fees for the law department totaled $16.20. On December 27, 1886 (Proceedings, 1886, p. 1472) Octave was re-appointed as a Commissioner of Deeds for two years beginning January 1, 1887, and ending December 31, 1889.

Around 1887, Octave moved from his longtime home at 1176 West Avenue to 545 Seventh, and the following year to Amherst Street, down the block from the Hanbachs.

February 28, 1887 (Proceedings, 1887, p. 227) saw him paid $7.40 for services to the Law Department. The following month, Clark Frank graduated with highest honors from Medical School. On April 18, 1887 (Proceedings, 1887, p. 439) Octave earned another $2.60 for services to the Law Department, and on May 16, 1887 (Proceedings, 1887, p. 582), Constable's fees earned him another $29.65.

On December 24, 1888 (Proceedings, 1888, p. 1381) Octave gained another 2 year term as a Commissioner of Deeds for January 1,1889 through December 31, 1891.

Octave apparently had a taste for politics and extra income, as he was Sergeant at Arms for the Buffalo Common Council, earning two dollars per session in 1884 and 1885.

On February 11, 1889 (Proceedings, 1889, p. 114) Street's Commissioner Henry Quinn nominated Octave and others "in accordance with the laws governing the civil service of this city, I have this day appointed the following persons to be street and health inspectors (several men, including Octave)." This was referred to Committee on Streets, and rejected on February 18, 1889 (Proceedings, 1889, p. 162).

In November 1889, Octave appeared at the County Clerk's Office in Buffalo to make his veteran's claim for an invalid pension. He is described as 52 years old, 5 feet 5 inches tall, with a fair complexion, and dark hair and grey eyes. He claimed partial disability from "laying in the wet and mud of Petersburg" during June, 1864, and as a result of typhoid fever. He stated that he was in no hospital for rheumatism, and "was later sick and went to hospital at Washington, DC for one night only." He listed his address as 203 Amherst Street in Buffalo, NY, the address of his oldest son.

According to US Census Bureau statistics released in 1999, some 35% of Buffalo's residents were foreign-born in 1890 (Buffalo News, March 12, 1999, p. 1). During the 1890's, Octave seems to have changed jobs and addresses frequently. There is no City Directory listing for him in 1891, 1892, or 1893. He may have been living with one of his sons, perhaps Frank. In 1894 he worked at the Buffalo Laundry Company, and lived at 64 Pooley Place with son Octave A. On January 29, 1894 (Proceedings, 1894, p. 201) Octave presented a claim for services as constable, which was referred to the Committee on Claims. On July 16, 1894 (Proceedings, 1894, p. 1245) his claim was rejected. Octave is not listed in City Directory in 1895. On December 24, 1894 Dr. C. Frank Bruso was appointed as a Commissioner of Deeds (Proceedings, 1894, p. 2084) and resigned soon thereafter, on January 21,1895 (Proceedings, 1895, p. 109).

In 1896 Octave was paid $10.00 for election expenses, and lived with his son Roscoe Grant Bruso, a fireman for the NYC and Hudson Railroad, at 280 DeWitt. In 1897 father and son moved to 315 Grant. Octave must have been proud when my grandfather John Clark Bruso was born to C. Frank Bruso and Katherine Hanbach about a year and a half before Octave's death.

On Christmas Eve 1897, Octave died at 15 Greenwood Place in Buffalo of exhaustion, and atheroma of the respiratory tubes and blood vessels near heart; result of rheumatism, two tumors, one pressing on trachea, other on left bronchi. His physician son C. Frank Bruso was his medical attendant.

Octave's obituary in the Buffalo Enquirer of December 24, 1897 reads: "Octave Bruso, who had been a resident of Buffalo for forty three years, died this morning at his late home, No. 15 Greenwood Place. Mr. Bruso was born October 18, 1837, and came to this city in 1854. At the breaking out of the Civil War he enlisted in the 1st Missouri Infantry (sic: 5th MO), with which he served for one year, afterwards being attached to the 50th New York Engineer Brigade. After his discharge from the army in 1865, Mr. Bruso was employed by S.O. Barnum and remained with the firm until 1880, when he was appointed Sealer of Weights and Measures, in which office he served until 1882. Mr. Bruso was a member of Washington Lodge, No. 240, F. & A.M. (Free and Accepted Masons)(see Buffalo News article 11/3/76, page. 36), and Union Veteran Legion, No. 97. He had always been a Republican in politics. His widow and five children, C. Frank, Mary H., Octave A., Roscoe G. and Ruth R. Bruso, survive him. The time of the funeral will be announced later."

The Buffalo Times of December 24, 1897: "Octave Bruso is dead. He was a well known soldier and faithful public official. Octave Bruso, born October 18, 1837, died at his home, No. 15 Greenwood Place, at 1:50 o'clock this morning. Mr. Bruso came to Buffalo in 1854 and served through the entire Civil War. He was in the 1st Missouri Infantry and later occupied a place on the staff of officers in the 50th N.Y. Engineers. From 1865 to 1880 Mr. Bruso was employed by S.O. Barnum. He was sealer of weights and measures from 1880 to 1882. At one time he was Sergeant-at-Arms for the Board of Aldermen. Mr. Bruso was well known as a constable. He leaves a widow and five children: Dr. C. Frank, Mary H., Oscar A., Roscoe G., and Ruth R. Bruso." The Morning Express of December 25, 1897 repeated this information.

He was buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, originally in #3, section 13. According to cemetery records, his remains were moved January 20, 1919 to the multi-grave Bruso Family plot purchased by Frank.

The old homestead of the Bruso Family was destroyed in a horrible fire in May 2009. The Buffalo News reported:

"Quick work by Buffalo firefighters prevented a wind-driven fire on the city's West Side from turning into a tragedy, after some firefighters were trapped briefly on the second floor early Thursday morning. But those heroics couldn't prevent a disaster for almost two dozen residents, most of them refugees from other nations now forced to try to rebuild their lives -- again. The fire at 1176 and 1172 West Ave., near West Delavan Avenue, sent seven Buffalo firefighters to area hospitals for treatment for various injuries and routed 21 residents from their homes...As agencies worked to find housing, clothing and furnishings for the displaced, six injured firefighters were treated for burns, mostly to their faces and wrists; one firefighter suffered a shoulder injury after jumping from the second floor of a 2 1/2-story house.'Everybody's been released, but they've been banged up and burned pretty good,' Buffalo Fire Commissioner Michael S. Lombardo said.

Things could have been much worse, as all the ingredients were there for a tragedy: Two old wooden houses, only about a foot apart; a heavy wind that fanned the flames; and the search for roughly two dozen residents, in the dark. As the wind pushed the fire through the two buildings, the search for residents left some firefighters trapped on the second floor...Firefighters responded to the 1:07 a.m. alarm at 1176 West Ave., one block east of Niagara Street. The fire quickly spread next door to 1172 West Ave., and the blaze overwhelmed the buildings within seconds, according to the commissioner...The fire caused an estimated $45,000 damage to the adjoining houses, and fire officials requested emergency demolition of the two buildings. The fire broke out in a bedroom inside 1176 West, but the cause remains under investigation...("W. Side Fire Leaves Refugees Homeless," The Buffalo News, Gene Warner, Buffalo, NY, May 15, 2009)

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