June 3rd, 1865, Camp 92nd Regt. O.V.I., Near Washington, DC

Camp 92ND Regt. O.V.I.
Near Washington D.C.
June 3rd 1865

My dear Parents:

We are still in our old camp near the city. Nothing new or strange has happened since I last wrote.
I have been to the City a number of times and have thoroughly inspected every part of the Capitol of the United States of America – have visited the Patent Office, Post Office Dept., Treasury Dept. and the War Dept. Also have been in the grand reception parlor of the White house – very fine place – there are very many curiosities about Washington, such as I would like to spend much time in seeing.

Col. Morrow sent me to the War Dept. yesterday with clerks to superintend the copying of the original muster-in Roles pertaining to the 92nd. After my business was completed I visited the Treasury Dept. and returned to camp. After supper in company with the other officers of our Div. I paid my compliments to Maj. Genl. Geo. Thomas at Willard’s hotel on Pa. Avenue – the noble and well beloved Commander of the old 14th Corps at the battle of Chickamauga. I had the pleasure and honor of grasping the hand of the hero of Nashville, “Old Pap” as he is called by the 14th Corps boys. He seemed glad, very happy to see us.

Today he visited our Div. and as he passed along the line he was every where greeted by hearty cheers, everyone was glad to see him.

I have been very busy this week making up my returns of responsibilities to the government and making out muster-out roles for Co. A. We will be mustered out so soon as all the roles are completed – which I hope will be some time next week but we will not be discharged until we arrive at some camp in the state. I do hope we may get off soon.

I would much prefer marching through Georgia and South Carolina than to remain here for we could get something good in the grub line down in Dixie, but while here in the land of plenty we have coffee, hard tack and salt pork for breakfast, hard tack, salt pork and coffee for dinner and salt junk, coffee and hard tack for supper. I saw a Miss H. Walker in the city – I believe she is some relative of Mr. A. B. Walker of Athens. The weather has been very warm for some time. I have been writing so much lately that it is almost impossible for me to use my pen, therefore it is politic to close.

Tell Geo. he must have a good garden this year. May & Alice can attend to the wants of the turkeys and chickens. Much love to all the folks.
                                                                    Affectionately your son
                                                                                   David Putnam
Official
Harnily Run
Athens Co., Ohio

May 20th, 1865 Camp 92nd, O.V.I. Near Alexandria, VA

Camp 92nd O.V.I.
Near Alexandria, Va.

May 20, 1865

Dear Parents:

Another long march is finished, and we – Sherman’s army - are encamped two miles from Alexandria & 8 miles from Washington City.

We are very busy just now preparing to be reviewed in the City of Washington next Wednesday. We as yet know not whether we soon will be mustered out or be held full term.  I am well. Frank and Matt stand the marching well. We have nearly nine months pay due us – no prospect of pay – I think Sherman’s army is being treated very meanly by the officials at Washington. While all the other armies & all parts of other armies have received pay to a recent date, our army has rec’d nothing since Aug. 31, 1864.

What is the feeling in the North as to Sherman? I notice many of the papers are down on him. Now for all these poor ignorant fools of editors who have in all probability never seen a larger body of troops than a Co. or Regt, to criticize as great a Military genius as Sherman is outrageous. Now the army generals and all are great & fast Sherman men & will uphold him in anything he has yet done.
We have had some very hot weather.
   
Much love to all
                            Affectionately your son
                                  D. Putnam

We arrived here yesterday.
                                     D.P.

May 8th, 1865 Camp 92nd O.V.I. Richmond, VA

Camp 92nd O.V.I.
Richmond, Va.

May 8, 1865

My dear Parents:
   
Well “on to Richmond” has been the cry ever since the 7th of May, 1864– the day Sherman’s army moved against Johnson from Ringgold in northern Ga. and on the 7th day – just one year of May 1865 Sherman’s army marched into & through Richmond and in and around Richmond is now a reality, although we were not the first troops in Blue to enter the Reb capitol, yet we think we have done our part toward its capture. Sherman’s army left Raleigh, N.C. on the 30th of Apr. and arrived here May 7th a distance of 184 miles – average of 23 miles per day. 14th Corps had longest route yet were the first to enter the city. We are to be reviewed here tomorrow and then soon march on to Washington City – there to be again reviewed and soon be discharged or sent to our respective grand review of Sherman’s army at Washington!! I am very well, boys from Athens all right. Matt & Frank are well, weather very warm. Much love to all.

                                    Affectionately your son
                                                  David Putnam

March 28th, 1865, Headquarters, Co. "A" 92nd O.V.I., Goldsboro, NC

Headquarters, Co. “A”
92nd O.V.I.
Goldsboro, N. C.

March 28, 1865

My dear Parents:

Since my arrival at this place I have received letters from each of you and also from the girls. The R.R. completed to this place from Beaufort and supplies are being rapidly brought forward. I will endeavor to give you an idea of the general direction of our – the 3rd Div./14th Army Corps – line of march through S.&N. Carolina, we at all times formed the extreme left of the infantry force under Sherman, Kilpatrick’s  Cavalry was nearly always either on our left protecting our flank or reconnoitering in our immediate front.

On the 5th of Feb. we crossed the Savannah River into S.C. at Sisters Ferry about forty miles above Savannah. This was the first time our part of the Army trod on the unholy & poluted soil of the state. From thence our line of march lay through immense swamps northward nearly parallel with the river to Barnwell; thence more west until we struck the Augusta & Charleston R.R. just east of Aiken Station & 24 miles from Augusta, here we spent 12 hours hard labor tearing up and burning the road – the boys all worked with a will. Marched toward Columbia crossed the North and South Edisto Rivers passed through Lexington & came to the Saluda River 11 miles west from Columbia where we crossed on pontoons leaving Columbia to our right for other troops to attend to. Our course now lay toward the Broad River which we crossed 21 miles above Columbia, same day we strike and destroy the Columbia and Springfield R.R., from here we march more to the left toward Winnsboro. Passed through Winnsboro 21st Camped two miles north of town on R.R. . 22nd, 3rd Div. commence destroying the R.R. follow the road & labor hard all day road torn up and burned to Blackstock Station. The way we destroy the iron is this; we tear off the railing, pile up the ties, set fire to them, lay the iron on the fire until it becomes very hot & pliable at the center of the rail, then three or four men seize either end, carry it to a tree which is used as a fulcrum, the rail is bent and coiled around the tree, there left to cool & rust, to transport Rebs no more for three years or during the war.
 From Blackstock we move east & cross the Wateree River southwest of Lancaster. Crossed river  28th Feb. Passed N.W. of Lancaster. Crossed the state line into N.C. 3 PM 4th  of March and bear again to our right toward Chesterfield. Again in S.C. crossed Great Pedee river on pontoons 8 miles above Cheraw. We now march directly for Fayetteville, N.C.  When we arrive 11th March lay here three days – destroy the Military Academy, foundry, arsenal & cloth factories. Cross Cape Fear River on pontoons head our column for Goldsboro. We cross the South and Great Coburn rivers & then the Rebs begin to show themselves in force and offer fight; they seem to have a large force. On the 19th the advance of our army had considerable of an engagement with the enemy. 20th our Division ordered to the front, we march rapidly all forenoon & come to the ground where the heavy fighting was yesterday. We march out & form our line of battle outside of our works and in plain view of the enemy, he has his line strongly posted about mid way of an open field. We form our line just at the edge of the field & in a thicket of pine. Each regiment of our brigade is ordered to deploy a line of skirmishers on its own front. Companies A and I of 92nd are ordered out – I deploy my line in front of Regt. We are ordered to advance & drive the enemy from his position. So soon as we emerge from the wood the enemy endeavor to drive us back, but all to no purpose we give them a volley & then charge them, drive & take possession of their works. While crossing the field we had no shelter  whatever – hence it was pretty warm work for a while; but we gained our point. While on the line the Rebs throw grape, canister & shell at our skirmish line at short range. I was slightly stunned by the explosion of a shell but am now all right again.

No man in the 92 from Athens County was injured while some portions of the line lost heavily. I have one of the bravest little companies in the Army – all first class soldiers. 21st Rebs get a good thrashing all along the line & evacuate during the night. 22nd March on our way to Goldsboro. Cross the Neuse on pontoons 11 miles from town arrive at Goldsboro. 23rd Are now in camp one mile north of town.There are portions of S.C. which are very rich and productive but the large portion is composed of sand, pine forest & swamps. All the land we spread over as we passed along is now one vast dreary waste. We burned fences, all vacant dwellings & they were many, all barns, storehouses, rail roads, foraged all the corn, hay, flour, meal, oats & meat – also cattle, hogs and sheep. Yes S.C. the mother of war, fine blood & destruction, has received her portionage & the dregs with it. But so soon as we crossed the line into N.C. no more houses of any kind were destroyed except government works.

 I do actually believe that we have corduroyed at least seventy-five miles of road across swamps in order to get our train along. I wouldn’t give a 50 ct. Confed. Script for all the country I have seen since we left Savannah. I don’t believe it would produce even “good oil”.

I have just received by mail a pocket diary & a bundle containing socks, kerchief, suspenders, etc. just the things I wanted. Am very glad they got through. It would not be safe to attempt sending a box through as we shall probably leave here on another campaign in a very short time & then Richmond will fall. I send you an order issued by Sherman so soon as he arrived here.

Tell Geo. he must make plenty maple sugar this spring.

Much love to all                        Affectionately your son
                                                             David Putnam

January 23rd, 1865, Camp 92nd Ohio Vol. Inftr., Near Savannah, GA

CAMP 92ND Ohio Vol. Inftr.
Near Savannah Ga.

January 23rd, 1865

 My dear Parents:

Yours of 9th inst. has just come to hand – first I have received since Nov. 8, 1864. You may be sure it was a very welcome message.

You speak of the great oil excitement throughout Athens County – has oil yet been found on or near Harnily farm or has any attempt yet been made to discover it? If $50 per acre can be obtained for the farm it is a large price. The two pairs socks have safely arrived and I am now enjoying them. I wish you would send me a pair of suspenders – long as can be had – my old ones are about played and I can get none here.

We are now camped about nine miles from the city of Savannah -  having moved out a few days since with the intention of beginning another campaign but we have recently had heavy rains which so raised the water in the swamps and flooded the roads to such an extent that we are forced to lay still a short time and wait for more favorable weather.

Have not seen any snow this winter and but very little frost – weather has been warm most of the time. The frogs have sung their songs of welcome to the Yankees all winter, and now as spring is beginning in this country they are more noisy than ever.

Some of the Eastern troops have arrived to do garrison duty at Savannah - part of Sheridan’s command – well if they cannot capture cities to garrison I suppose we can, and if they will hold all the country we capture they will be doing something at least.

I miss my oyster suppers very much. While we were near the city I feasted on them in every form but now goodby oysters until some other sea port is captured.

I am glad to hear that the money got through safely. Jona. Smith is on detached duty, there being nothing for him since we left Atlanta. He did not receive pay when the army was paid at Kingston – he not being with us but was left at Atlanta when we were back after Hood. (Ed. note: long unreadable sentence)

You will probably hear that the army is on the warpath in S.C.

 Give much love to all the little folks.
                        Affectionately your son,
                                            D. Putnam

January 13th, 1865, Headquarters Co. A 92nd O.V.I., Savannah, GA

Headquarters Co. A 92nd O.V.I.
Savannah, Ga.
January 13th 1865

My dear Parents:

Although I have received but one letter from home since Nov. 6th 1864 and that from Sarah I will still continue writing. Part of the army is yet in and around Savannah, but we expect soon to be again on the warpath – Sherman knows not Winter, Spring, Summer nor Autumn quarters for his army, and I am glad of it, and regret that more of our generals have not the same spirit.

We have now a great advantage over the Rebs, and we ought to improve this advantage by quick and well directed blows at the heart of rebellion, and our work will be accomplished, and an honorable and lasting peace crown our efforts, and that great boon – liberty – shall be universal on American soil.

I was somewhat disappointed in the late message of the president yet he is firm in the steps he has already taken and seems to intimate that the time will come when the army will have the privilege of pursuing more vigorous measures with the Rebs.

Many Officers who have escaped from Reb dungeons have come within our lines since our occupation of Savannah, and they all attribute to the Negro population of the country through which they have passed, the success of their escape. They – the Negros – could at all times be trusted and were the only friends our officers found in a forty days march.

Savannah is being strongly fortified. These forts when completed will mount about 175 heavy guns. The city is to be garrisoned. The people of Savannah have voted themselves back into the old Union. The last of Sherman’s army – Kilpatrick’s Cavalry – was reviewed in the streets of Savannah yesterday. Secty. Stanton & Genls. Halleck and Meigs were present. The obstructions are being rapidly removed from the mouth of the Savannah river so that we now have some large ships at our wharves all the time.

I wish you could all be here about one week and live on fresh oysters. I have been feasting on them until I begin for the first time to almost dislike them.

They are brought up from the coast in large quantities and we purchase them at the wharf for $1.00 per bushel. (Ed. note: Several sentences about food costs are unreadable. Next an unreadable sentence ending in “with Co. A”) I have invoiced and turned over all my property at Div. Headquarters, and receipted for the ordnance, ordnance stores and camp & garrison equipage belonging to Co. A 92nd and am consequently comdg. the company. I have one 1st Lt. to assist me – C. B. Goodrich from Marshfield.

Capt. Rosser, Lt. Goodrich and self have formed a mess; we all bunk together and have gay times. I like it much better than at Div. Headquarters. I’ve spent most of the time in Brigade and Battalion drills; will have Brigade drill this P.M. Ben is busy polishing up my sword & belt – he says he wants his Capt. to look more shiny than any other officer in the regt. Noble fellow!

There are some large fine churches in Savannah. I attend services during Sabbath; have heard some fine sermons. The weather is at times quite warm although we have some nights light frosts. Oh how I sympathize with you folks up near the north pole in the frigid zone; how you must suffer this winter while we soldiers are luxuriating in the sunny climes of Ga. (Ed. note: unreadable sentence ending in Atlanta) Tell George he must get the teams ready and in good condition for the spring campaign in the cornfields. Ella, Mary and Alice will commence the spring campaign by giving the old setting hens all the eggs they want so as to make provisions for the soldiers while in winter quarters.

Sarah and Betsy will of course pursue their work, Latin, Algebra and Chemistry as closely as Gen. Thomas has Hood.

My health is good, better, best. I send an Ambrotype so you may judge by sight.

Send letters thus - Capt. David Putnam
                              Co. A, 92nd Regt. O.V.I.
                              1st Brigade, 3rd Div.  Savannah, Ga.
                              14th Army Corps             


Much love to all                                           
                                                            Affect. your son 
                                                           David Putnam
P.S. Have you rec’d my money yet? 
                                                   D.P.

December 25th, 1864, Savannah, GA

Savannah, Ga.
Dec. 25, 1864

My dear Parents,

After waiting long and impatiently for a letter from home - and not receiving one I am forced to write again. I will attempt to give you a little acct. of our campaign from Kingston to Savannah. On the 12th of Nov. we left Kingston for Atlanta – the last car has passed north and we commence doing what an army of such magnitude has not done since the war commenced by entirely destroying our line of communication; large details were made to pull up the RR track and burn it. All the public buildings in and around Kingston were burned. Crossed the Etowah River same day at Cartersville. Weather chilly. Nov. 13th Marched at daylight – passed over the Alatoona Mts. & through the town of Alatoona -  Reb wounded still in the hospitals. Arrived at Big Shanty station at dusk. RR destroyed up to this point - weather very chilly – severe frost - last night 14th passed through Marietta – principal buildings burned. Camped 2 miles S. of Chattahoochee River – weather cold – ice along the road. 15th Arrived at Atlanta. Camped for night on Decatur road – clothing issued to the army during night - RR burned to this point. Army in fine spirits. 16th Marched on Decatur road at day light – passed Decatur, small village finely situated. Passed 7 miles south of Stone Mt. – country becoming more open – weather pleasant. 17th (orders to march at daylight every day) – marched on the Augusta road – road passed through Litonia in eastern part of Dekalb Co. passed Conyers fine village plenty forage sweet potatoes, honey, chickens, hogs, etc. etc. weather warm.

18th Marched on Covington Road parallel with R.R. – R.R. entirely burned as we marched – passed through Covington splendid town inhabitants mostly all gone. Crossed Yellow River at West Covington, County seat of Newton Co. 19th Passed through Sandtown – plenty forage but few rations issued – troops confident of their leaders ability to conduct them safely through & to victory. Weather fine.

20th Took my mounted men out foraging. Captured eight fine mules and ten noble horses. Country open and full of provisions.

21st Marched on Milledgeville road & through northern part of Jackson Co. – crossed Yellow river in rain all day – cold - roads muddy.

22nd 3rd Division in advance quite cold last night now in Putnam Co. passed Eatenton co. seat of Put.  Contrabands coming in by hundreds. 23rd Marched into Milledgeville at M.. Capital of Ga. Now in Yankee hands. Legislators had barely time to fly from the state house & escape – so rapid & secret were our movements. Milledgeville is a very fine City . Numerous large & highly finished private residences. Gov. Brown’s residence vacated; his pet militias cant be found. Several cords of Confed. Script piled up in Statehouse. Couldn’t furnish transportation to bring it with us. People mostly all hot Rebs.

24th 14th and 20th Corps lay in camp all day in & around the City. 15th and 17th Corps with cavalry make a demonstration on Macon & destroy R.R. Weather cool and pleasant.

25th 14th and 20th Corps march out of Milledgeville – only depot and arsenal destroyed. Crossed the Oconee River east of the city and burned bridge – surface of country covered by swamps and forests of pine. 26th Marched on Sandersville road – arrived at Sandersville 5 PM . County seat of Washington Co. Very productive county – large cotton fields – Reb cavalry in front. Some skirmishing – weather very pleasant.

27th  Marched on Louisville road – Crossed the Ogeechee river M.– weather clear and warm. 3rd Div. in front.

28th Marched to Rochamfore Creek by AM – Rebs destroyed the bridge – halted & constructed pontoons – crossed over 3 PM & through Louisville, Co. seat of Jefferson Co. Warm

29th&30th Lay in camp two miles from Louisville. Reb cav. all around our camp. December 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Our Div. and Gen. Kilkpatrick’s Div. of Cav. march on a road to the left by themselves and make a demonstration toward Augusta – traveling in Burk Co. Very fine county – full of forage – continual skirmishing  - Rebs on all sides – on 4th Kilkpatrick gave Wheeler a handsome whipping and drove him 8 miles.

5th Marched all day – 20 miles – through one immense pine forest and sand beds. 6th Within 4 miles of Savannah River. Passed Jackson AM.

Negros organized into pioneers for Div. Country very swampy. Land covered by forests of Pine & jack oak – soil pine sand.

7th Marched through a wilderness of  pine, sand, canebrakes and swamps. Direction parallel with Savannah river. Wheeler in our rear with his cavalry – heavy skirmishing.

8th Camped ½ mile from river – saw Reb gunboat – shelled us – no damage done. Weather very hot. Fort (???) near camp also an old church built in 1769 and used by Washington as a hospital. Heavy cannonading by fleet south of Savannah – are now in Screven County.

9th through 19th Lines being formed around Savannah and Corps taking their positions as assigned them. Continual skirmishing – occasionally severe cannonading by the fleet and some charges on forts with hand fighting – all passed quite well. Weather hot and dry. 20th Rebs evacuated Savannah last night. Union forces take possession of city this AM. All heavy guns left in forts – large amounts of stores and ammunition captured – city uninjured. Thus the campaign gloriously ends and the army is in better campaigning condition than when it left Atlanta. It is estimated that the Rebs left at least 100 guns of heavy caliber in and around the city. Boats are daily landing at the wharf from N.Y.

Well, I have at last succeeded in obtaining Gen. Baind’s permission to be relieved from duty at headquarters and so soon as I can turn over property for which I am responsible I will again be with the 92nd OVI. I recd a few days since by mail two pairs of stockings – good nice ones just what I wanted and much needed. Good stockings are a great comfort. When they arrived I was wearing my last pair & they much worn. We are now in and around Savannah enjoying a short rest but from appearances will in the course of ten or fifteen days be on another campaign. I think we will soon be marching on S.C. soil. My health is first rate.

Well I have received my commission as Captain in the 92nd O.V.I. and have been assigned to the command of Co. A. Yes I may now say I am Captain Putnam from Hickory Glade. Pray God that I may discharge my duties honorably and faithfully. Hereafter direct my letters to Co. A, 92nd O.V.I.
Give much love to Brother and Sisters

                                                  Very Affectionately your son
                                                           David Putnam

December 18th, 1864, Near Savannah, GA

Near Savannah, Ga.
Dec. 18, 1864

My dear Parents,

My prophecy in my last, that my next letter would be dated from some point further south has proved true. Our Div. is in camp about five miles west of Savannah. The army has been about the city nearly a week. We received our first mail last evening.

We had been wandering through the State of Georgia one long month without communication with the North – you can imagine how refreshing the news that our communication was again open and that we would again receive our mail regularly.

When we arrived near the city we could distinctly hear the fleet pounding away at Reb forts at the mouth of the Savannah River and we knew then that we were all right. The fleet succeeded in ascending the river to Ft. McAllister. Here they halted until the land force came up; after some little time & severe fighting the fort was captured with entire garrison and 16 pieces heavy artillery. This gave us command of the S. River up to the mouth of the Ogeechee – also the Ogeechee River. Everything is prospering finely and in a short time Savannah will be ours.

We have communication with the fleet, Foster operating in South Carolina and Grant. I have seen the soil of S.C., but as yet trod the sand of the hotbed of traitors. Our movements through Ga. have been completely successful and all that could be desired. Plenty to eat, little fighting and fine weather.
Boys from our vicinity so far as I know doing well. Frank all right – my health first rate. Weather fine, quite warm – shade comfortable. Mail soon leaves.

Much love to all
                 Very affectionately, son
                            David Putnam   

P.S.  Have you recd my money yet? Send letters as heretofore except substitute Savannah for Atlanta.
                                 D.P.

November 6th, 1864, Kingston, GA

Kingston, Ga. 
Nov. 6, 1864

Dear Father:

     We – the 14th Corps – are in Camp near Kingston, a small village on the Chattanooga and Atlanta RR. Every thing is prospering finely, our communications are all right – Hood has ceased to trouble.
Preparations are being made for some grand move soon; you may wait for stirring events from this army before long - if I can judge from appearances, although Gen. Sherman has not confided any of his contemplated movements for the future to me.

Sherman knows not winter quarters. If he will only lead us through to the land of oysters on the Atlantic or Gulf shores. We don’t want to see winter quarters this year: yes take us to Macon, Augusta and Andersonville that we may liberate our thousands of wretched, suffering Union brethren who are now languishing in Southern dungeons and we will be glad. I dare not tell all I know as to our future movements.

We have lately had some cold, windy, rainy weather for this latitude.

The army is in fine campaigning trim – many drafted and substitute men are daily arriving for the various parts of this army. They are known by the old soldier at a single glance, they all have long hair and knapsacks about as large as a common haystack. We have recently been paid. I have paid over to the State Agent $500.00. I send you a receipt for the money. I would like it invested in U.S. 7 – 30’ bonds – I took bonds from the paymaster but I expect they will be picked up before they reach Athens County. Frank also sends $100.00. State Agent’s name is Mr. Wallace.

Day after tomorrow the great battle of the war will be fought. The army here is a unit for Lincoln and Johnson. May God give us true and good men.

                                                 Affectionately your son
                                                          David Putnam

September 14th, 1864, Atlanta, GA

In My Office Near Atlanta
Sept. 14, 1864

My dear Parents,

Your letter of 31st Aug. has come to hand. Also a package containing a beautiful and at the same time useful present from each of father, mother , brother and sisters. For all these tokens of remembrance I am very thankful.

You say you sent the knife for me to sell; now I at first supposed it a present, if not, I cannot take money for it, but will gladly give money so soon as we are paid by the U.S. I did not enter the army for the purpose of making money. Neither am I willing to monopolize some sutler’s trade. Therefore I must decline pedling.

Our Corps is in camp one and one half miles south of Atlanta on the Macon R.R. (RR) Cars are running regularly. I would much prefer our present camp away from the filth and contamination of the city than a position inside the city limits. I went through Atlanta  a few days since, Ah, it is a horrible place – neglect and ruin are everywhere, dirt, poverty, wretchedness and wickedness are the ruling powers that be. Atlanta is spread over a large area of ground, is not nearly as compactly built as Nashville. Many of the larger houses were burned by Yankee shells. In every garden or yard are erected small cellar bombproof forts on private account for the use of women, children and negros to screen themselves from the inquisitiveness of the “vandal’s” twenty pound Parrott blue Mass; Yes and the people have from appearance kept as close to these private affairs as the Chivalry did to those public outside of the city. Immense forts and heavy lines of works surround the town on all sides yet all these and millions of destroyed property together with twenty pieces of 64 and 100 pounder guns were abandoned by Hood. Sherman used him  as a mere child. While near Jonesboro we captured a Reb. Lieut. on his way to join his command; he had been to the great jubilee given by Hood in celebration of the Yankee defeat and retreat from before Atlanta and the great Confed. Victory. He got drunk and while in this state was left behind by the army in their hasty retreat to meet Sherman further south. It was a Yankee trick in part that which blew Hood and his hordes from Atlanta. Yes, military strategy first real (??) I have seen since the war began. If I only had time I could let you into the secret.

Weather very fine although sometimes hot; boys from 92 all well so far as I know.
     
Much love to all
      Affectionately your son
      David Putnam

August 11th, 1864, Atlanta, GA

Camp before Atlanta, Ga.
Aug. 11, 1864

My dear Parents,

Yours of July 31st has been duly received, I have had my time fully occupied or should have answered before this.

Since I last wrote our Corps has moved from the center, about seven miles to the right of the line and now occupy a position near a small stream - Utoy Creek – and strongly entrenched. Since we crossed the Chattahoochi we have lost many men and several Noble Commanders – the brave and intrepid McPherson was killed 22nd July while at the head of his Columns, cheering on his men . Hooker has been relieved by his request, because Howard was assigned to McPherson’s old command – Hooker ranks Howard – I do not think Hooker acted without blame. Palmer our Corps Commander has been relieved and the 14th Corps is now commanded by Gen. Johnson who formerly commanded the 1st Division of 14th Corps, Stoneman with a portion of his cavalry has been captured while on an extensive raid on the railroads leading from Atlanta south. Yet with all these changes our army still presses the enemy at all points. With Thomas and Sherman left we are safe.

     The Rebs fight more stubbornly here than they have at any other point since the campaign commenced, but what will it avail them except the loss of life? They will if they remain here suffer defeat – they must leave: they are becoming worn out and discouraged by the labor which is exacted from them in the trenches before the city day and night, and for the first time since we crossed the river, deserters are flocking into our lines, they say all the railroads except one leading to Atlanta have been destroyed and rations are becoming scarce. Deserters this morning say Johnson is again commanding their army – Johnson was relieved because he wouldn’t fight and now Hood has been set aside because he has fought.

There are guns of large calibre in the forts about Atlanta, we have had 64 pound Parrott shells fall into our camp and they say there are 120 pound cannon mounted in some of the forts west from the City, if this is true the Southern Confederacy will someday be minus some big guns.

The weather has been pretty warm, but we have been having rain recently, which makes it more pleasant. I have recd both bundles which you forwarded and they are a great comfort. Is the price of groceries and provisions still advancing in Ohio? I have to pay 25 cts per lb for white sugar, 20 for brown, 21 for ham, 20 dried beef, 12.5 fresh beef, 16 pork, 52 for coffee and 20 for beef tongue, dried.

Boys from our neighborhood well last I heard. Sergt. Sleigh sick and gone to hospital – my health firm. Much love to all
                                                     Your Son
                                                     David Putnam

July 26th, 1864, Headquarters, 3rd Div., 14th Army Corps

Headquarters
3rd Div., 14th Army Corps
In the field, Ga.

July 26, 1864

My dear Parents

Yours of 10th inst. containing fifteen postage stamps I have received.

Since I last wrote the army has advanced, and our div. is now encamped and fortified within two and one half miles of Atlanta.

Our largest guns have thrown some shells into the city, doing but little injury except the burning of a few buildings. Johnson is not now commanding the Rebel forces, having been relieved the 16 and Hood assumed command. The enemy is still fortifying about the city which is already nearly surrounded by very strong works – this looks much like he means fight – since he assumed command he has made several desperate charges on our lines all of which have been successfully repulsed with much loss to the Jonnies.

I do not need a hat since I recently bought one. I have a good gold pen although my writing doesn’t bear witness to the fact. I send by the Pro. Mar. to Chattanooga for my bundle of shirts kerchiefs towels to some time since and he has brought them through safely and I am now enjoying the comforts of a good large shirts, they fit nicely.

The weather for a few days past has been more cool and pleasant. I have been receiving Messengers regularly.

Please send me in letters now and then some yarn so that I can darn my socks, also a skein of linen thread.

The boys from our locality are doing well. Jess Russell is with Pro. Guard at Brig. Hdq. They have been talking some lately of making me Div. Quartermaster on Gen’l Baind’s staff. Do you think it would be right for me to accept the position, or make another effort to be relieved and return to the Regt.? Because officers according to Col. Brough’s order who are on detached duty are not entitled to promotion when a vacancy occurs. What had I best do?

Much love to all
                       Affectionately etc.
                              David Putnam

July 9th, 1864, Near Chattahoochi, GA

In the field

Near Chattahoochi, Ga.

July 9, 1864

Dear Parents

Your letter containing slips of paper which gave accounts of commencement proceedings I have recd.

Our Corps is still in camp near Chattahoochi River; the other Corps are busy on the right. Everything thus far is going well. The Rebs have strong forts on opposite side of river to prevent our crossing. Atlanta can plainly be seen from points on this side of river, but with a good glass the streets can be seen thronged with people. When fighting is in progress the house tops are covered by spectators who seem to be much interested in movements of our army: strong forts can be seen near the city. The cars are up as usual. They run right up to the skirmish line. This insolence as the Rebs consider it is promptly met by a shower of bullets. A Reb prisoner says he believes the Yanks have a machine for “spinning railroads”.

The weather is hot, hot, very hot – the roads are beginning to be somewhat dusty.  

Boys in the Regt. were all well the last time heard. I do not need money although we have not been paid for nearly seven months.

Much love to all

         Affectionately your son David Putnam

June 28th, 1864, 2 miles west of Marietta, GA

In the field, Ga.
June 28, 1864

Dear Parents
   
Your and Sarah’s letters dated about the 15th informing that you had started a bundle, I have received. As you sent it by express it will not come further than Chattanooga, that being the most southern point where an office is established.
   
Since I last wrote our Corps has moved about three miles to the right. The enemy has established their lines about two miles in front of Marietta, their center resting on Kenasaw Mountain and their flanks running back in the shape of a flat A. They have a strong position and seem intent on holding it. We have had some pretty severe fighting but the Rebs wont drive worth a cent. I have not now command of the Provost Guard  but am commanding a company of cavalry acting as Genl. Baind’s  escort.

The weather during the last week has been very hot – doesn't seem as though the sun was more than 10 or 15 ft. high yet the nights are cool and pleasant.   I saw and had a short talk with Lt. Col. D. H. Moore about a week since; he was looking well. I also met Lt. Mahon, King Blackston’s partner last week, he don’t appear nearly so effeminate  as when he used to sell clothing – he is very strong and is enjoying fine health. The 14 Corps is now lying between the 4th and 20th Corps but I think we will move further to the right either this evening or early tomorrow morning. If the Rebs make a final stand here so much the better for I don’t believe this campaign will end until we have a general engagement. We have already had a long trot after them and the army needs rest. Moreover I am about as far South as I have a desire to be during the hot months, but if nothing else will do I am willing to follow them to Cuba and whip them, then cross over into Mexico, call on our French brethren and have a talk about matters and things especially as to what friend Max. ( ed. note, French emperor Maximillian installed in Mexico) intends doing in America. Well I see by papers that Ohio has again taken to her arms that vile traitor and banished man Vallandigham. If the Government cant keep him out of the N.S. line there had better nothing be said about him, but let him henceforth live in peace, abuse the administration, organize mutinies and use his unholy influence for the promotion of Secesh interests.
   
Give my respects to Bob. Hope his interests are in a flourishing condition on Ticks Ridge.
   
The Rebs shell our camp whenever they feel disposed. One of my men while standing by my side the other day was wounded by a fragment of a shell; this morning they threw over pieces of R. R. iron also pieces of shell which (     ) from this way. Ah, when thirty of forty cannon are roaring at the same time, it presents a grand spectacle together with the music of screaming and bursting shells, whistling solid shot, such a sight would repay the travel of a 1000 miles.
                                                 Love to all
                                                                D. Putnam

June 16th, 1864, Five miles west of Marietta, GA

In the field Ga.
June 16, 1864

My dear Parents
   
Mails are not very regular & time for writing is very irregular, hence I write only when there is a probability of sending to the office. Yours of June 1st has safely arrived – first during a long time.
 
Our army moves slowly but I think surely, we are yet five miles west from Marietta and near Lost Mountain which the enemy hold & seem to intend holding to the last but they will & must leave or go north to be guarded by the 100 day veterans. I understand these Vets however are deserting, how is it?
   
How did Sife Harper prove himself unfit for service? Is he very sick?
   
The army is fighting every day: for the last forty days and nights there has been musket and cannon firing. I don’t know but I would feel almost lost if this kind of music should cease.

The cars now run up to Big Shanty Station immediately in our rear. The surface of the country is uneven & mostly covered by a heavy growth of jack oak pine and chestnut, so that Sherman is forced to advance cautiously to guard against ambush. Within the last eight days we have had much rain – three days and nights almost continual – roads have been in horrible condition – almost impossible for artillery to move from place to place – weather has cleared up & roads are rapidly improving.
   
The army is yet furnished with full rations. This is the first time the Army of the Cumberland has ever drawn full rations during a campaign; this reflects great credit on our commander – the boys all feel in great spirits and are loud in their praise of Sherman for his abundance of hard tack. Sherman is a Genl. on the alert day and night, ever ready with a kind look or a word of encouragement for the men, always up along the line, is not afraid of a shell, does not have his headquarters five to ten miles in the rear as a certain other Genl. has done. He is about five ten, swarthy complexion, rather downcast expression & not heavy build.
   
Hurrah for Pres. Lincoln & Vice Pres. Johnson for the next four years. Their nomination gives great satisfaction in the army. I have not heard of a single person who will not support them, bully for the Baltimore convention. It has done itself immortal honor. Where is McClellan, Fremont and the rest of them and where will they be next fall? Grant, Sherman, Lincoln & Johnson!!

We have experienced some warm weather, but the nights are cool + pleasant.

The Rebs have just commenced getting their train out of the valley between our lines + the Mountain. They have to pass over a point of the Mountain in full view from this stand point and our artillery men are trying what virtue there is in shell to hasten the pace of Reb mules + test the valor of mule drivers-this movement looks as though the enemy meditates a change of front. Our skirmish line is advancing.

Frank is just here, he says tell his family he is well + hopes these few lines will find them enjoying the same blessings that others from our vicinity of 92nd will.

Affectionately
D. Putnam

May 20th, 1864, Garden Plain, GA

Garden Plain, Ga.
May 20, 1864

My dear Parents,
   
This is the first time I have had to write since the Army left Ringgold.

We are now camped in a beautiful valley called Garden Plain situated on the R.R. about five miles south from Kingston – will move forward right off – have followed the Rebs very closely, skirmishing and fighting ever since we left Ringgold. Many deserters are coming in – have had a pretty severe campaign so far – have not slept in a tent since we started – weather very warm – Rebs are more than getting back - are advancing on Atlanta. although the Rebs destroyed as much of the RR and telegraph as they had time to - all the bridges. Yet the telegraph is repaired up to this and the train has just come up - this shows great promptness on the part of those who have charge of repairing the R.R. When the cars arrived one thundering cheer burst from the entire army This promptness will have a salutary effect on the troops - the ground the Rebs occupy one AM we hold PM - have had some heavy fighting 92 slightly engaged one killed five or six wounded all from our neighborhood yet safe and well. Army still get full rations – never felt better - will write more as time will permit – rec’d Sarah + Harrys letters – will answer.

Hurrah for Grant!! Affectionately your son David Putnam

P.S. When you have a chance please send me two good, large flannel shirts as my old ones have shrunk until I can hardly wear them. D. P.

May 3rd, 1864, Ringgold, GA

Ringgold, Ga.
May 3, 1864

My dear Parents
   
I have received your letter of April 22nd.

Everything is quiet here now although we have had two or three brushes with the Rebs within the last week.

The weather is warm – sometimes hot – nights cool. Trees and shrubs are clothed fully in their summer garb - corn by this time – had it been planted -  would be about kneehigh, but the earth is not yet turned, nor is there any likelihood of ploughing being done in this vicinity during 1864.

Our Div. left camp yesterday morning at 4 and marched through the gap toward Tunnel Hill: We encountered the Rebs out about 1 1/2 miles - pitched into them, and after some pretty severe skirmishing broke their lines and drove them at double quick beyond Tunnel Hill where we stopped: having accomplished the desired object we about faced and returned to camp.

One place where a force of the enemy was camped we found their breakfast ready but nary a Reb to partake of the sumptuous repast, which consisted of corn meal and water and water and corn meal made into a paste and roasted on the coals; we found several cakes still cooking but had not time to refresh ourselves by partaking of these tempting morsels.

It is my private opinion the next time we call on these hot cake gentry there will be something if not more. I don’t think our gents will wait for the mighty Militia; but will advance soon.  Banks is not commanding this army.

Jim Davis staid with me last night – will probably obtain the Sutlership of the 14th O.V.V.I.

My box of provisions is doing an immense amount of good. Every person who has had the honor of supping with me since the arrival of the box has declared the several articles were too good for soldiers or that they were not canned for soldiers: well I satisfied them by affirming that they were put up especially for soldiers. My old clothes are no more.

If Uncle Mose has bought the McKee farm it is all right. It is just as good a place as I want and if those Home Guards will attend to their own interests and let others alone I guess – well the fact is, I havent yet seen a place in any part of Ky. Va. Tenn. Ala. or  Ga. Which begins to compare with Ohio for a home.

Papers do not come through regularly have received but two or three. Army stores are being rapidly brought forward to this place some fifty or sixty cars loaded come in daily. Lt. Rosser has returned. Matt. has not come yet. Frank is well. Jono. has gone to Nashville to help drive mules to the front. Will makes a good soldier.

I expect Geo. is busy looking after the lambs, colts, calves, etc.

     Much love to all
                             Affectionately
                                 David Putnam

April 14th, 1864, Ringgold, GA

Ringgold, Ga.
April 14, 1864


My dear Parents

Your letter of March 31st I have received and I would have answered it before this had I not been too busy.

I am prospering and doing as well as could reasonably be desired – have good health, comfortable quarters and plenty good food – have been lately feasting on potatoes, krout(sic) and canned tomatoes which I had the good fortune to purchase from our Div. Commissary. I also sent a man to Chattanooga last week with a written request to the Sanitary Agent  stationed at that place desiring him to send me some vegetables for my little Command of one hundred men. I received 4 barrels potatoes which have done the boys much good; they seem to feel about 100% better – think I shall have to trespass on their generosity again before long.

I am much obliged to Matt. for his good opinion – fear he will make me vain – I only help I may do my duty and thereby receive an approving conscience.

I was out day before yesterday with my mounted men beyond our lines picking up stragglers: I visited several families and conversed with certain individuals of the several families. They all seemed glad to see us – were friendly and talkative.

I was out yesterday with a flag of truce to make arrangements for taking a woman within the Reb lines, her home is in Miss. We found the Rebs out about two miles, they, after some few objections, concluded to receive their friend, so we left her to pursue her way home and enjoy the sweets of
her darling Dixie. We met a Col., Lt. Col., Maj., Capt. and two Lts. They seemed very friendly, talked and laughed as though we were old friends, they said it was much more pleasant to meet under a flag of truce  than meeting as we sometimes do. One man had on a pair of common course           boots for which he paid $125. such as the U.  S. Gov. furnishes for $4. At $11. per month it would require his services  as soldier something over eleven months simply for a pair of boots!!

We have had considerable rain lately but quite warm and fine growing weather. Corn should have been planted before this yet no one has even commenced plowing as yet,  neither do I think they will do so as long as the Gov. supplies their immediate needs.

I am getting tired having written most all day. My respects to Bob, Harry, and the rest of the darkies.

Much love to all the family
Affect. your son
David Putnam

April 8th, 1864, Ringgold, GA

Ringgold, Ga.
April 8, 1864

My dear Parents:
   
Your letter of March 25th is before me. In my last to Sarah I told her that it would not do to attempt to forward another book – it would not reach here; I hope the letter was received in time to prevent the box from starting, it might come safely through to Chattanooga, but it would not come further.  I think I see Geo. and the rest busy preparing materials for Glade C. candy.

I am glad Robert Scott is with you, & supposed him still to be in Ky. driving team for the govt. Why did he quit? I presume he could not endure being so far from Tick’s Ridge – poor fellow I sympathise with him, give him my compliments. I hope he may be successful. Matt. had better remain at home until he is entirely well the army is no place for a person who has the scurvy. You say you are “looking forward to another draft”. When did the last draft take place? The 121st Regt. is not in our div. it may be in this Corps. I will keep my eyes open perhaps I may sometime see my new cousin.
I visited the summit of Taylor’s Ridge a few days since, the place is noted as being the ground over which Hooker’s men charged and drove the Rebs. on 27th of Nov. last, it is quite a high mountain running north and south immediately west and in front of Ringgold. From the top I obtained one of the most beautiful and extensive views of the surrounding country I have ever witnessed. Far to the west and north west lies old Lookout, Chattanooga and the long range of the Raccoon Mts. intervening is the valley of the Chickamauga Creek and the Tenn. river.  Almost directly east is Tunnel hill gap through which can be seen far, far off a high range of mts. I know not what they are – the Mexican Range perhaps: the high Mts. Are south west. Almost due north some sixty miles off can be distinctly seen a spur of the Cumberland Mts. This spur lies between N.C. and Tenn. This spur is now covered with some ten or fifteen feet of snow which makes them appear like huge snowballs sitting in top of a stump. Citizens say snow remains on the top during eight months of the year.
I believe this place is more healthy than W. Ga. Everybody is looking healthy and happy.
We had a grand review yesterday. Our division was viewed by Genls. Thomas, Palmer and Bainds. Gen. Hooker came down in the evening but did not reach here until the show was over.

Please hereafter direct my letters to Headquarters, 3rd Division, 14th A.C. and not to the Regt. I have given up all hope of being able to return to the Regt. soon as I have receipted for a considerable amount of Ordnance, Ordnance Stores, Clothing, Camp and garrison equipage, etc., etc. belonging to the guard and escort. I now have quite a little command; 60 Inft. who do guard duty about Headquarters and 40 mounted men who act as Gen. Bainds’ escort – 100 in all. For all people I have to make returns monthly & quarterly to the Chief of Ordnance and Adj. Gen. at Washington which gives me plenty to do. Much love to all

                                    Affectionately your son
                                           David Putnam

March 24th, 1864, Ringgold, GA

Ringgold, Ga.
Mar. 24th 1864

Dear Parents

Yours of 9th inst. recd. I have been on business to Chattanooga recently and should have written sooner. I am truly glad we have got out from that place – if some measure is not soon taken to thoroughly cleanse the place from all filth, the whole town will be one grand hospital. Whole regiments of mules still lay where they fell last winter some scattered here and there as skirmishers, some form one line of battle and others are in close column by division: the atmosphere is literally full of disease and contagion.

Ringgold, I think is a very healthful place. My troublesome neighbors over the way have ceased from troubling – they have been sent to their “dear friends” at Dalton. Old King Winter has erected an immense house of snow and taken up his abode with us for a season. Night before last we had a heavy snowstorm – snowed all night and part of yesterday, eight inches deep by measurement.  Citizens say deepest snow “weuns all have seen for last thirty years: the oldest inhabitants have never witnessed so much snow at any one time; they affirm the Yanks brought it with them, but they could bear such a storm if it was the only storm of Yankee invention.

The R.R. is completed up to this point and cars are arriving regularly.

Jont. Smith wants that you should see about getting his bounty of $100 – I know not whether it be a County or State bounty– and saving it for him, either put it in the bank on an interest – he thinks his family will not need more money this summer. Frank wants to know if you don’t want some nails made, fences built or some stove wood chopped? If you do he will be on hand so soon as he gets his big job done.

I am having pies for dinner regularly. Ben stews Hickory Glade dried apples, then converts them into first class pies. Has Cousin Doug been discharged? There were four Put. cousins in 92nd 14 months ago, now, one.
                                                           Much love to all affect. Your son
                                                                                       David. Putnam

My “Kiss Me” attracts much attention. Could dispose of it for a good sound sum of greenbacks but I cant sees (sic) them.
DP