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The matter contained in the succeeding pages was never intended for publication. It represents a short sketch of incidents, and participation in the late war, by the late MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES, and extracts from letters to his wife, written from the camp, and on the fields of battle, and such other matters of record and interest as have seemed to me fit and proper to be inserted therein.
GENERAL GRIMES had for years after the surrender determined to write out his recollections of the war, solely for the benefit, pleasure and curiosity of his children and their posterity, to be read in after years, with no view whatever of their publication, but simply to be kept as a matter of record in his family. He had commenced this work, as shown in his original manuscript, and, as far as executed, it is printed in the following pages.
In his letters to his wife, he gave briefly an
account of what almost daily transpired, and being
written on those respective days, was fresh in
his recollection, and maybe received as strictly
These sketches and incidents demonstrate the character, honor and chivalry - the obligation of duty, and love of country, of a true citizen and a brave soldier. They present a truthful and impartial history, and will be read with interest and gratification by his friends and surviving comrades in war, and with this view they are thus publicly presented.
It will be observed that in one or two places disconnected notes appear, indicating clearly his intention to refer to them at some other time, and to extend more fully their subject matter. I have thought proper to have them printed just as they appear, and as they are written in the original manuscript.
It will also be seen that mention has been once
or twice made of his horse “Warren.” His affection for this animal was very great. He had been
released from all work since the war, except now
and then his own occasional riding, and the best
attention had been given him. I have frequently
heard him say, that however much he might need
the money, he would not part with him for thousands
MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES was born in
the county of Pitt, on the south side of Tar River,
about eight miles from the town of Washington, N.
C., on the 2nd day of November, 1828. He received
a good
He was on the 9th day of April, 1851, married
to Miss Elizabeth Hilliard, daughter of Dr. Thomas
Davis, of Franklin county, who died on the 7th
day of November, 1857. The only living issue of
this marriage is a daughter, the wife of Samuel F.
My relations to GENERAL GRIMES forbid me to speak in such extended teams of praise as my feelings would dictate to speak of one of the truest and bravest of men. For honesty of purpose - for devotion to principle - for firmness of friendship - for honor in all things - for truthfulness in all things - for faithfulness to all promises and obligations, and for true, genuine courage, he stood on the day of his death the peer of any living human being.
On Saturday evening of the 14th of August,
1880, while returning from the town of Washington,
when at Bear Creek, within two miles of his home,
he was, just at sun-set, shot from an ambush by a
concealed assassin, and almost instantly killed. A
little boy, about ten years old, a neighbor's son, was
his only companion to whom he said, “I am shot
and will die,” and immediately thereafter fell slowly
to the foot of the buggy and expired. Several
buck-shot struck the ribs and the top of the buggy,
but only one shot took effect on his person, which
That evening's sun, just sinking into darkness, left its frowning shadows upon this terrible deed. Its morning rays fell upon a household saddened by affliction, and saw the mother and her children still bending over the lifeless form. Its midday brightness, on the succeeding day, rested upon the large and solemn assemblage gathered at the homestead to render the last and only tribute of respect and affection. The end was soon over, and the tomb received all that remained of him who would have made any sacrifice to maintain his honor, and who did freely peril his life for his State and for his section.
The rounded mound marks now, and will continue to mark, the resting place of one who, in life, bore the type of God's highest creation - the attribute of a Creator's mightiest perfection,
To the living and the dead of the Fourth Regiment of North Carolina State Troops, who so gallantly served the Confederacy in the Army of of Northern Virginia, the following lines are fitly dedicated.
An account of his own recollections of the War, and a brief account in part of his own participation therein, by the late MAJOR- GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES, taken from his original manuscript. - Extracts taken from letters to his wife from the fields of battle. - His own account of the last fight at Appomattox. - General Orders. - Reports. - Other interesting matter, &c., &c.
I returned from Europe in the middle of the great political excitement over the election of Lincoln to the presidency, and about the time of the secession of South Carolina from the Union, and became deeply interested in the action of the South; and upon the bombardment of Sumpter by Beauregard, had gone down there for the purpose of witnessing the fight, but was too late to see the capitulation.
Thence I went to Montgomery, the then seat
of government, and from there to Pensacola, to
witness the threatened attack of Bragg at that
point. After remaining there a few days, and seeing
no prospect of the bombardment, I visited New
On returning home to North Carolina, I found
myself a candidate for the Convention which had
been called by the Legislature during my absence,
to which Convention I was elected without opposition.
The election was on the 13th May, and I
proceeded at once to Raleigh, and signed the
Ordinance of Secession on the 20th May, 1861, and
whilst a member advocated the most extensive war
measures. In a short time after the organization of
the ten regiments of “State Troops” raised for, and
by request of the Confederate government, I was
offered by Gov. Ellis the Lieutenant-
I received permission to visit the Bull Run
mountains to recuperate. After a short absence I
returned to my command, and remained with the
regiment until the evacuation of Manassas under
Gen. Jos. E. Johnston in March, 1862, then in command of my regiment, as Col. Anderson was in
command of the post of Manassas and the troops
in that section. Camped on Clark's mountain, near
the Rapidan river, until April 8th, when the command
was ordered to Yorktown, which point was
reached on the 9th. Accompanied Col. Anderson
Here for the first time I became acquainted with
the fire of the enemy and was assigned the post of
commander of the picket line which I sustained
until the evacuation on the night of the 3rd of May,
when I was left in charge of the picket line of
infantry, with instructions to keep up as usual the
firing throughout the night, and retire about dawn,
which was very perilous, as torpedoes had been
planted on all the roads and streets leading into
Yorktown, and my picket had to be kept outside of
the enemy's fire. About the middle of the day I
regained my command, and encamped with them
near Williamsburg for the night, and next day asked
leave of absence to visit the venerable institution,
“William and Mary's College,” during which visit
the fight commenced, and carried off by the
excitement, I followed the sounds of strife until in the
midst of the battle, and never realized my danger
until I saw several officers and couriers of Gen.
The participation of the 4th Regiment in this
battle was slight, and the Brigade Commander being
placed in command of the field of battle, the
command of the Brigade devolved upon Col. Anderson
and that of the regiment upon me, when Col. Anderson remarked that he would take advantage of
my knowledge of the field of battle, I having been
present during most of the engagement and knew
the localities, and thus riding over the field we
continued together until near daylight, when we were
withdrawn. This night, though in May, was one of
the most disagreeable of my army experience, a
heavy penetrating mist, nearly freezing the men to
the bone when all would huddle together for the
From thence the army retired slowly, but always
on the alert, to the Chicahominy river. While there
by an alarm of the approach of the enemy, the
tents were all struck and wagons sent toward Richmond,
leaving the army tentless and comfortless in
the midst of a cold drizzling rain, when taking
possession of a rice-
I was then ordered with the regiment near Richmond,
and ordered to report to Gen. Garland, Col.
Anderson being in temporary command of
Featherstone's Brigade, and withdrawn and returned to Col.
Anderson in time to participate in the battle of
Seven Pines on May 31st, 1862, which engagement
entered into with 25 officers and 520 non-
commissioned officers and privates. All the officers
were killed, or wounded except myself, with 462
men killed and wounded. I attacked the fort and
redoubt where my horse's head was blown off, and
The next day was not actively engaged, but
retired that night, the enemy having been heavily
reinforced. From then until the 26th of June there
were daily skirmishes along the lines, when on that
day we passed the Chicahominy, near Mechanicsville,
and although not actively engaged, was held
under terrific infantry fire, and commanded to
support other troops and artillery, and remained in that
position until near daylight, when we were ordered
off to report to Gen. Hill by his special orders.
Whereupon he directed me to “charge that battery,”
which was the only obstacle on the road to Cold
Harbor. Whereupon I asked Gen. Hill if he was
aware that I had no officers, and only about sixty
men, when I was told to hold myself in readiness to
charge, if others who were ordered forward a second
time failed to take it. I deployed my men on the
line and instructed them to fire upon any of these
troops who failed to move forward to the charge.
They were then successful but found other impediments
further on, whereupon Gen. Hill determined
This dog (“General”) became the pet of the
regiment, and remained with it for over two years,
Crossed the river at Grapevine bridge and pursued the enemy as far as the White Oak, when against the consent and protest of Gen. Anderson, who had been made Brigadier, I was detailed by Gen. Hill to take charge of the captured stores and prisoners, and report at Richmond with them. Gen. Anderson saying “that although small in numbers Colonel Grimes and regiment is the keystone of my brigade.” I remained around Richmond until about the middle of July, when an attack of typhoid fever compelled me to visit Raleigh and recruit my health. My visit home was of short duration, returning in time to the army to take a part in the first invasion of Maryland and the battles previous to the crossing of the Potomac.
I recall the circumstance near Savage Station of a
man perfectly rigid in death, with his musket up to
this face, and in the act of taking aim; burning of
the trains - pile of metallic coffins - Catholic Priests -
a Federal soldier claiming exceptional kindness on
account of his being a native of North Carolina, &c.
My command did not participate much in the
battle of Second Manassas, but were in the field and
assisted in driving the enemy beyond Centreville,
when the line of march was taken up for Maryland,
and reached Leesburg 4th September, and on the
5th, when crossing the Potomac at White's Point,
near Edwards' Ferry, I received a very severe hurt
from the kick of a horse, which incapacitated me
from active duty, not being able to either walk or
ride, but had myself carried in an ambulance in
anticipation and hopes of a speedy recovery. Here
we were encamped near Frederick City for several
days, and then moved up to the vicinity of
Hagerstown. On the 14th of September the command
was called upon to proceed down the turnpike to
Middletown, near the pass over South Mountain,
when seeing an engagement with the enemy was
inevitable, I had myself placed upon my horse and
took the command of my regiment, and was first
sent with the command to the left of the turnpike,
The next two days, kept with the train and was
carried to Shepardstown where I remained, being
unable to report to my command, which was then
engaged in battle at Boonsboro, where my friend
and mess-mate, Gen. G. B. Anderson, received the
wound from which he subsequently died after returning home. The regiment with Gen. D. H. Hill's
command went into quarters on the Opequon, near
Bunker's Hill, in county, I having to be sent
to Winchester on account of the serious nature of
the injury to my leg, as amputation began seriously
to be talked of. Here and at camp I remained
until in November, and would have asked for a
furlough but for the ride, &c.
I reported for duty though not recovered (and still have an indentation in the bone from the injury), when Gen. Hill relieved Col. Cristie, who had been assigned to the command of Anderson's Brigade, and put me in charge.
[Here follow notes just as they appear in the original manuscript.]
(NOTES. - Railroad at Charlestown near Harper's
Ferry - Berryville, Shenandoah, Paris, Fisher's Gap,
Reily, Madison C. H., Guiness Station - Dec. 1st -
Dec. 3rd - Port Royal 20 miles below Fredericksburg - Dec. 13th - night of 14th placed in front
line - dead horses - request not to be relieved -
bunching horses - Hedge - cries of wounded - saw
enemy retreating eventually - informed Gen. Hill -
said mistake - freezing - Gen. Jackson coming up
sent forward to see where the enemy were - look of
disappointment and chagrin - in the matter of flag -
relieved of brigade command by Brig. - Gen. Ramseur left Fredericksburg in command of 4th N.
C. at peep
The command was reorganized and perfected in
drill and then assigned to destroy the Baltimore and
Ohio railroad from Charlestown, the site of the
execution of the notorious Kansas Ruffian, John
Brown, who was executed at this point within two
miles of Harper's Ferry. The work was done
effectually at night by tearing up the cross-ties and
We were then encamped for some time near
Berryville until crossed the Potomac after
the removal of McClellan from command, when we
crossed the Shenandoah, breaking ice for the passage
of the men, who had to wade one bitter cold day
over the river to meet the enemy who were reported
as advancing on Paris. Here, for the first time,
General R. E. Rodes, one of the bravest and best
officers of the Confederate army, took temporary
charge of the division which subsequently became
so distinguished as “Rodes Division” in the history
of the Army of Northern Virginia. Here occurred
a misunderstanding between Gen. Rodes and
myself, which continued until the spring of 1864, and
then ended by a gentlemanly and chivalrous action
on the part of Gen. Rodes. The circumstances
were as follows: Not knowing that Gen. Rodes was
in command of the Division, and supposing that
Gen. Rodes like myself was in sole command of his
own brigade, came up when the troops were crossing
, requiring the arms to be
stacked at all halts. The explanation was given
and the men ordered to stack arms. Gen. Rodes
then instructed me to await where I was and allow
the artillery to pass him. Hour after hour passed,
and no artillery came up. Finally Gen. Rodes sent
a courier to know what detained me. I sent word
to him that I was waiting for the artillery. He
then sent back ordering me forward. Upon
reaching the small town of Paris, about two miles distant,
, and if you had not
countermanded your order to await the arrival of the
artillery, I should have remained there until Gen. Hill
resumed command.” He then placed himself by
my side, and went on to place the command in
position and said, “Halt your men here.” “When I
give the command 'Order arms' preparatory to
stacking arms,” he said, “you need not stack arms.”
My reply was, “It is Gen. Jackson's order, and you
have just reproved me for its violation, and I shall
do it.” He then ordered us forward about a mile
to await the advance of the enemy. We had
several slight skirmishes with the enemy's cavalry, and
then marched parallel with the Federal troops across
the mountain at Fisher's Gap, thence down near
Madison C. H. to Orange C. H., and thence down
the plank road to Guiness Station, which we reached
on the 1st of December, 1862, and on the 3rd were
Before day next morning we were up, every man
at his post, awaiting the expected charge. The fog
hung low, and we waited impatiently for it to rise
and show us the plain below. When I saw the
enemy were not in sight, I then went forward some
few hundred yards to reconnoitre, and in the
meantime sent word to Gen. Hill that the enemy had
disappeared from my front. Gen. Hill sent my report
to Gen. Jackson, and had himself only been there a
few minutes, when Gen. Jackson, accompanied by
Gen. Lee, rode up to this spot, the highest eminence
on that part of the field, and asked, “Who says the
enemy have gone?” Gen. Hill replied, “Col.
by Taylor's house. Opposite
Taylor's house there were ladies, who constantly
tried to signal us the movements of the enemy,
particularly when Hooker moved on in April following.
During the month of February was relieved of
the brigade command by Brigadier-General
Ramseur. Obtained a furlough for a short time and I
visited home, and upon returning was occupied in
drilling and disciplining the 4th Regiment, which
regiment was not excelled in the army of Northern
Virginia and was noted for its
On Friday the 1st of May; before the break of
In this manner, without halting, we marched
down near their main body, driving them from every
position, and several of their regiments leaving their
knapsacks piled up where they had been thrown off
when called out to oppose our onward march.
Upon crossing a creek and mill-pond, driving the
enemy before us, all wet, tattered and torn, and
marching over the brow of the opposite hill, the
whole line of the main army opened fire upon us,
After getting in position, and near the plank- road, I went up the road to see if I could hear anything to account for the sudden firing, when I met a party bearing a litter off the field, and enquired who it was. Someone said “Lieutenant Sumter,” and upon going a step or two further I encountered Gen. Rodes, who informed me that the wounded officer was none other than Gen. Jackson, but he thought it advisable that it should be concealed from the troops for fear of disheartening them in view of the serious work ahead of us in the morning. We lay down behind the breastworks, and rested for the night.
Sunday; May 3rd, Chancellorsville. Before daybreak
Brigade, a brigade of previous good
reputation, which occupied the breastworks captured by us
the day previous. A staff officer rode up and directed
by command of Gen. J. E. B. Stuart (who had assumed
command after Gen. Jackson was wounded) the
officer in command of this brigade to advance and
charge the enemy, Gen. Ramseur and myself being
on the plank-road and hearing the order given.
This brigade commander declined to move forward
his command - except by order of his division
commander. Gen. Ramseur then said to this staff
officer, “Give me the order and I will charge.” I
remonstrated with him, saying as we had done the
fighting of the two previous days, let this brigade
move forward and we would support them. Gen.
Ramseur said no, repeated his offer to advance,
when this officer said, “Then you make the charge,
Gen. Ramseur.”Gen. Ramseur then turned to me,
saying, “Let us hurry back. Call your men to
attention!” which I did upon reaching the command,
when he ordered the three regiments of his brigade
The artillerists seeing only a small portion of the
line held, now rallied again to their guns and opened
upon us. About the same time my attention was
called to my right and rear where I saw large numbers of the enemy fast closing up our line for retreat
(the right of Ramseur's Brigade having halted to
deliver their fire upon encountering the enemy where
they were engaged, while we had taken the breast-
work). Seeing these Federal troops in my rear, I
gave the order to abandon the captured works and
fall back to the protection of the earthwork still occupied by this () Brigade, through whose cowardice
we had suffered so severely. We crossed to the right
of the plank road, and got back to our line in the best
manner possible. In this charge my sword was severed by a ball, my clothes perforated in many places,
and a ball embedded in my sword belt and the scabbard, and I received a very severe contusion on the
foot; and upon reaching the earthwork from which
we had first started, I had only sufficient strength to
get over, and lost consciousness from exhaustion
and pain. One of my own ambulance corps seeing
Brigade. Gen. Rodes said,
“Why have you not joined in the charge?” The
reply was, “We have had no orders to advance.”
Under the stimulus of this falsehood, I fully aroused,
pronounced it a base lie; that I had heard the order
given myself, and repeated his reply. Whereupon,
Gen. Rodes took out his pistol, rode up to this officer,
presented the muzzle to his head, and, with an
epithet of odium, told him to forward his men, or he
would blow his brains out. He then gave the
command, and this () Brigade then moved forward,
and, without firing a gun, reached the breastworks
that we had taken, and found the Federal forces had
evacuated the hill, and safely carried off all their
artillery posted there. If these troops had moved
forward in obedience to orders, and encountered the
enemy, we would have advanced quickly to their
support, and captured the principal part of Hooker's
artillery. As it was, we met with terrific slaughter
I was taken upon a litter to the hospital, where my contused foot was attended to The next day rode over the woods we had charged through, and examined the works we had taken, and found scores upon scores of the enemy killed, around and in front of the work, doubtless killed by my command and the three companies of the 2nd Regiment. Forty- six officers and men out of less than 300 (4th Regiment) were buried near this breastwork the next day.
This charge was as gallant, noble, and self- sacrificing as the world-renowned charge at Balaklava of the immortal “six hundred.” Here Polk, my faithful servant, was tempted by the offer of $500 to sell the forage that had been procured by him for my horse, but could not be bought off.
From here we returned to near “Hamilton's
Crossing,” and turned in the woods to recover from our
severe trials of the several previous days, and
re-organized, examined, and recommended for
appointment and accustom our new officers to command.
Here we passed the time in drilling until about the
first of June, when we took up our march for
Pennsylvania. We crossed the Shenandoah near Front
NOTE. - Servant - Cavalry - Camp - Squirrel - Williamsport - Hagerston - Dr. McGill, &c.
In compliance with orders, I have the honor of
submitting the following report of the part taken by
the 4th Regiment N. C. State Troops in the
engagements around Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. On
Wednesday, the 1st of July, we were encamped near
Heidelburg, and were under arms and on the march
by sunrise. About 4 p. m. arrived near the battlefield,
and formed in line of battle, being on the left
of our Brigade. After waiting a few minutes, were
ordered to advance in line of battle, which was soon
countermanded, and then moved by the right flank.
After proceeding a few hundred yards, this Regiment,
together with the 2nd Regiment were recalled by
Maj. Gen. Rodes and
We remained in that position during that night
and Thursday. On Thursday evening about dark
we advanced to make a night attack upon the
enemy's works, but when we had approached to within
a few hundred yards, and drawing the fire of their
pickets, which wounded several of my men, we were
recalled and placed on a road, where we remained
until 3 a. m. Saturday morning, at times subjected
to severe cannonading. We were then taken to the
Two much cannot be said in praise of both officers and men of my command, all conducting themselves most admirably.
SUMMARY OF NOTES. - Left Garysburg 20th July, 1861. Arrived at Manassas 29th July - remained until March, 1862. At Yorktown 9th April, 1862. Position outside of fortifications evacuated 3rd May, 1862. Supported other troops at Williamsburg May 5th, but not actively engaged. Seven Pines - loss 374 killed and wounded at Seven Pines. Crossed Potomac at Cheek's Ford, near Leesburg, 7th of Sept. - encamped near Frederick City, Md. Recrossed the Potomac 19th of Sept. at Sheperdstown. Remained in the Valley encamped at Bunker Hill, Winchester, Front Royal, and Strasburg. Crossed the “ridge” three times.
Chancellorsville - 46 killed, 157 wounded and 58
taken prisoners out of 327 carried into action.
Remained at Hamilton's Crossing until 3rd of June.
On the 9th went to support of our cavalry at Brandy
Station, but not engaged. Went to Valley, crossed
mountains, and river at Front Royal. Assisted in
driving the enemy from fortifications at Berryville
and Martinsburg. Crossed the Potomac with the
advance at Williamsport, Md., on 15th June, 1863.
Next day advanced to Hagerstown, acting as Provost
Guard of the city during the stay of the enemy in
the vicinity. From there via Greencastle, Chambersburg
and Shippensburg, went to Carlyle, Penn.,
where we went on picket duty eleven miles from
Harrisburg, the capital of the State. Thence to
Gettysburg via Heidelburg. Assisted in covering retreat.
Recrossed the Potomac 14th July, 1863. Stopped
at Darksville, then came to Front Royal, formed line
of battle, resisted enemy's advance by that route.
Withdrew by Luray road, crossed the mountains at
Snicker's Gap, thence to Orange Court House. Sent
to Morton's Ford to prevent the enemy crossing.
On 9th Oct., 1863, ordered to Orange C. H., and
went by Madison C. H. to flank the enemy near
Culpepper. Enemy made formidable resistance at
Warrenton Junction, and , which was overcome, and
(Oct. 17th, 1863, Catlett's Station. We fought several hours on Wednesday, 14th inst., a running fight. Loss from North Carolina greater than from any other State. Drove the enemy beyond Centreville. Now tearing up bridges and destroying railroads; in a few days fell back to original position. October 20th, returned home to make arrangements about withdrawing my name as candidate for Congress. November 7th, returned to the army, took command of the Brigade, Gen. Ramseur being absent.)
(Copy of letter to the Voters of the 2nd Congressional District of North Carolina.)
Having been repeatedly solicited both through
the public channels of communication as well as by
private letters from numerous and influential
gentlemen from the different counties composing the
District, also from troops in the field, urging me to
announce myself as a candidate to represent the 2nd
District in our next Congress, I eel called upon,
under such circumstances, to assure my friends of my
(Copy of letter withdrawing from candidacy of representing 2nd Congressional District, N. C.)
Some time since, contrary to my wishes, I announced myself as a candidate to represent the 2nd Congressional District in our next Congress. Preferring to remain in active service in the field until peace and our independence is secured, and believing that I can render more effective aid in attaining that end in my present position, have under the circumstances concluded to withdraw my name, trusting that my friends will appreciate the motives which induce me to this step, assuring them that at some future time I will cheerfully assume any trust or responsibility that they may see fit to require at my hands.
(Copy of a letter to Col. Jno. A. Young, of Charlotte, who was at one time Lieutenant-Colonel of the 4th Regiment, and a member of the North Carolina Legislature when this letter was written.)
You have learned through the
papers that we have been at the Yankees again, or
genus homo
I have just written a brief history of the Regiment (4th N. C. State Troops) which you can see by calling on Capt. Foote, Adjutant General, officer in charge of the “Roll of Honor.” I give you leave to call for it and revise and correct it, and embellish it, if you wish it. Modesty forbids my saying near as much as I could have done in praise of it. By calling soon you can read it before Capt. Foote has transcribed it on his books. In reference to other enclosures which I have had forwarded to him, you will perceive that our loss from disease and the casualties of battle exceed five hundred. I don't know if any other Regiment can show such a record. Our Regiment is now in tolerably fair trim, but not such as it used to be.
Bye-the-bye, there has been a piece of music composed and dedicated to the Old Fourth. I sent a
copy to Mrs. Grimes. Call and have her to sing it
for you. I wish you to make her acquaintance.
You will find her at her father's, Mr. Bryan. I learn
that your Legislature is disposed to be fractious and
intractable, like it was last winter. Can't you correct it? John, your son, is still at Richmond under
the charge of the surgeons, I hope, though, not dangerously ill, but will be able to report shortly. Of
My paper
has run out, so has a legislator's patience, I fear, so
good-bye.
[A copy of a request made of our Representatives in Congress.]
We, the undersigned, officers of the Confederate
States Army from the State of North Carolina,
desire to call the attention of our Representatives to
the unjust and arbitrary manner of selecting general
officers, and earnestly request that you call
attention of the Senate to this matter before the present
appointments are confirmed by that body. We
believe there are instances where officers of great
worth and skill, and of unexceptionable habits, and
who had recommendations from general officers of
high standing under whom they had served, have
been overslaughed, their juniors, who were not
superior to them in military skill or deportment, being
appointed over them upon the recommendation of
a single general officer. In some instances lieutenant-
colonels, upon the recommendation of a single
We would therefore suggest that resolutions to the following effect be submitted before these appointments are confirmed:
That all appointments to brigadier-generalship,
now for confirmation of officers who were not
entitled to expect such promotion by seniority, i. e.
who were not next in rank to the vacant position;
that the number of battles in which such officer
has been engaged exercising a commission at least
equal to the command next below that to which he
has been appointed; also how often and by whom such
officer has been recommended for promotion, and
in what battles he has been special act must be stated.
Whilst we do not desire to limit the selection of
general officers so much, as is necessary with the
April, 1864. Recommended for Brigadier General by Generals Daniel, Ramseur and Rodes.
(Original Copy.)
We feel it to be our duty as North Carolina
officers, and with a high sense of the good of the
service, to recommend Col. Bryan Grimes, 4th N. C.
Col. Grimes is among the senior Colonels from our State. He has commanded his Regiment from the battle of “Seven Pines” through all the battles in which the Army of Northern Virginia has participated, except “Sharpsburg” when he was disabled, and “1st Fredericksburg” when he commanded the Brigade of which he was senior Colonel. In the official reports of all their actions, Colonel Grimes' conduct is highly spoken of by his senior officers. In battle Colonel G. is conspicuous for skill and gallantry. He commanded for several months (from Maryland to Fredericksburg) the Brigade now commanded by Brig. Gen. Ramseur. As a disciplinarian Col. Grimes has few superiors. He is ever zealous in the performance of military duty, and in providing for and taking care of his men.
We believe the claims of Col. Grimes and Col. Cox to be very strong - by the appointment of either, the good of the service will be secured.
We, therefore, earnestly recommend their claims to his Excellency the President for promotion.
I take pleasure in endorsing Col. Grimes, claims to promotion. He has served with me in this Division since its formation at Yorktown, and shown himself under all circumstances to be a good and reliable officer. He is a thorough gentleman, brave to a fault, invaluable in an action, and his habits are worthy of imitation. Respectfully forwarded.
Col. Bryan Grimes entered the service as Major of the 4th North Carolina Regiment, and for more than a year had the admirable training of the lamented Gen. G. B. Anderson, who was Colonel of that Regiment.
Col. Grimes led the 4th with most distinguished
gallantry at “Seven Pines,” and in all the subsequent
(Extracts from letters to his Wife.)
Enemy crossed at Germania Ford May 4th and 5th, 1864. Would not only take black prisoners, but no white.
May 6th. - Whipped the enemy like fury last evening. 6th. Have whipped them badly. Burnside's Corps particularly stampeded like sheep. Some of our troops did not behave so well as expected, permitting the enemy to break lines, or falling back in confusion. Gen. Lee took command in person. With waving hat in hand, charged, driving helter skelter. Our Brigade suffered, slightly-charged Burnside's Corps, who broke and run before we got a good chance at them; Indians, also, who did no service.
6 o'clock Saturday morning. - Enemy are moving.
May 7th. - Enemy active, but nothing accomplished by them; regarded as badly whipped and demoralized. Walker Anderson killed, Col. Avery mortally wounded, Lieut. Col. Davidson prisoner, Haywood wounded.
May 9th. - Well, but greatly exhausted; was only slightly wounded in instep of left foot. Will keep on duty. Are getting the best of fights.
Battle field of Spottsylvania, May 11th. - By grace of God am still spared. The Yankees have been punished severely. We now have good breastworks, and will slay them worse than ever. Major Iredell killed yesterday; shot through the head while bravely rallying his Regiment.
May 14th. - On Thursday the enemy attacked
Major-General Johnson's line, breaking through, capturing himself and Brigadier-General Stuart of Maryland, together with two thousand prisoners and
twenty cannon. About 5 o'clock A. M., Ramseur's
Brigade were ordered up to check the enemy, who
were pressing our men, and kept them at bay for
about two hours when we were ordered to charge,
drove them (Ramseur's Brigade alone) back to the
statu quo
May 16th. - My escapes are regarded as
miraculous when account is taken of number killed,
particularly as I never order my men to perform any
May 17th. - Little fighting. Yesterday enemy moved forward to move hospital with 1500 wounded which they carried to Fredericksburg. Loss to North Carolina has been very great. Many most gallant officers killed. Gen. Daniel had been recommended by Gen. Lee for Major-General.
May 18th. - Yankees charged in front but were repulsed. Considerably strengthened Grant continues to run them against us. They can't hold out much longer.
May 19th. - Enemy have disappeared; have orders to be prepared to move so as to meet them. This is the fifteenth day since we have met them. Have been fighting more or less every day. If they would retire beyond the river and give us a breathing, spell, it would be decidedly advantageous. Nearly all are fagged out and need rest.
May 20th. - We made a flank movement last
evening and had a very sharp fight with the enemy.
Two of the “Old Guard” killed - Gus Byees and
Taylor. The old Fourth lost sixty-five killed and
wounded. Daniel's Brigade behaved most gallantly,
conducting itself most excellently. The bullets fell
May 22d, Hanover Junction. - We reached here today after a most fatiguing jaunt. The enemy attempting to flank us as we moved down.
May 25th. - Yankees still continue obstinate and still continue to rush on to their doom, as more of them did yesterday when they came on my line. We drove them with considerable slaughter, losing but few in Daniel's Brigade, who bore the brunt of the fighting. Have now been in line of battle forty- eight hours.
May 31st. - Yesterday a hard day; the exertion made and the fatigue undergone almost superhuman. Again this Division was called upon to make a flank movement. Whipped them, but at considerable loss to Daniel's Brigade. At least three- fourths of the killed and wounded were from this Brigade. There is no doubt its being a fine body, of men and will do credit to my command. Major Smith was killed and Lieutenant Lemay of Raleigh.
June 5th, 1864. - Received commission as
Brigadier-General, which, according to Gen. Rodes,
request, bore date of 19th of May, 1864, on which
occasion on a flank movement near Fredericksburg,
towards the rear of Grant's army, I handled the
June 7th. - Another flank movement last evening; did not amount to much. Last night came to this spot near Richmond, and for the first time in thirty odd days have come in the woods to encamp, massed by regiments. Have heretofore rested on our arms in line of battle.
June 8th. - Had orders to be prepared to move at daylight, but are still here near Cold Harbor. My old Regiment made application to be transferred to this Brigade, which I hope will be granted. I have an affection for them, having been associated with them so long.
June 13th, near Southana River. - Marched over
thirty miles to-day over sandy road. Everything
and everybody exhausted. Left Cold, Harbor at 2
o'clock A. M. Appears as if we are going to the
Valley of Virginia. Are now on the Charlottesville
June 15th, near Gordonsville. - Stopped here to camp for night. Think we will move up the Valley.
June 18th. - In the morning we take the cars for Lynchburg, after a most fatiguing and oppressive march. During Gen. Rodes, absence to visit his wife, I have command of the Division.
June 21st, 1864, Top of Blue Ridge. - Have been pursuing Yankees at such a rapid gait, haven't had time to write. Been almost without rations - hard marching, and nothing to eat. Start before day, not stop till dark, except to rest for ten minutes. We move immediately.
June 22nd, Salem, Va. - Since leaving Richmond
have scarcely rested any to invigorate our exhausted
energies, and with it all a deficiency of rations. For
the duration of forty-eight hours my Brigade did not
have a mouthful of bread, and but little flesh - very
little straggling and very little complaining.
Occasionally, when Gen. Rodes or Early passed the line,
the cry was, “Bread, bread, bread” but through it
all, we made a forced march for the last day, and
arrived too late to inflict much damage on the enemy,
which was very annoying, as we expected to get supplies
NOTE. - JULY - 1864, I returned home on sick furlough, being so completely worn out from fatigue arid hardship as to bring on a severe attack. Was in hospital in Lynchburg a few days before leaving for Raleigh. Was quite unwell when I returned, and had surgeon's certificate of unfitness for duty, but imagined that duty called me back to the army.
Staunton, August 6th. - Arrived here sooner than expected. Found Polk and my horse Warren, who had been sent home to be taken care of, waiting for me. Shall leave early in the morning for Winchester. Learn that our troops moved into Maryland Thursday.
New Market, August 8th. - Have stopped for dinner. I have found a very-agreeable travelling companion in Captain Burrill, a first cousin of General Lee. Without his company this horseback ride of one hundred miles would have been very lonely.
August 10th, North Fork of Shenandoah River. - Have learned that our troops have returned, and are encamped at Bunker Hill, where I will rejoin them to-night.
Stevenson's Depot, August 12th. - My surmises that they would not remain long at Bunker Hill are correct, and the indications are that we will not stay here long, but cannot conjecture in what direction we will move. General Early out-generals all of us. No one can guess when he is going to move, or where he will next bring up. The Yankees begin to think him ubiquitous.
Strasburg, Aug. 13th. - Have been expecting a fight ever since I rejoined my command last Wednesday, but have had none as yet. We have through strategic movements fallen back from Bunker Hill to this place. Have been sick, but am better. Have felt so badly, I regretted having gone contrary to advice in returning so soon.
August 14th. - The enemy are very quiet to-day. This morning we drew up to attack them, but they fell back, and we quietly returned to our rest in the woods.
Strasburg, Aug. 15th. - Another day of rest and free from fighting. Had a delightful serenade from my old command.
Strasburg, Aug. 16th. - Another quiet day, and from indications think it may be several weeks before we have an engagement; for the enemy, as well as ourselves, are erecting breastworks. General Anderson will join us, when, as we will be tolerably strong, we may strike a blow at them.
August 18th, Near Winchester. - Again have we driven the enemy from position, and followed them to this place, they still falling back, and not showing much fight. Their numbers are double ours. We were joined by Gen. Anderson's force this morning; also a Division of Cavalry. Could not write yesterday, was on the march all day. Now 2 o'clock, and have not broken my fast. Am invited out to dinner, which I accept with pleasure.
Bunker Hill, Aug. 19th. - The enemy continue to fall back, and we have pressed until reaching the present position. What is Gen. Early's intention I can't say.
Bunker Hill, Aug. 20th. - We have an admirable
camp, but have had nothing but beef and flour, not
even hog meat or salt, to help along. We remain here
a day or two to threaten the enemy. I received orders
this morning, when it was thought the enemy were
advancing, to make a big show of fight and bluff
them off, if possible; but if they came in force, to
Charlestown, Va., August 21st. - I have had today a good many killed and wounded, we being in advance, but have not had all my command engaged. The enemy have a large force between us and Harper's Ferry, which Early is demonstrating upon, and are contesting the ground most stubbornly. This is a mere feint to frighten them and cover some important move on our part. I have no idea we will fight here, for the enemy outnumber us three to one, and Early knows two well the importance of preserving his army.
Charlestown, August 22d. - My experience today has been varied. Early this morning we pitched into the Yankees and drove them through Charlestown to their position on Boliver heights where they are watching us and occasionally throwing a shell at us. I have command of the front line, and this morning while visiting the picket line as soon as they spied us their artillery opened upon us, which passed within a few feet of my horse.
August 23rd, near Harper's Ferry. - Amid the
fighting have escaped injury so far. Find
everything more plentiful here than in any part of the
valley, and the people anxious to conduce to our
Charlestown, August 24h. - Another day spent
between Charlestown and Harper's Ferry, the enemy
occasionally demonstrating, and about 12 o'clock
to-day their cavalry charged our picket line and
drove them in, and for the first time in many a day
doubled
August 27th, Leestown, near Shepardstown, Va.
Have been so busy for two days have not had time
to write. Wednesday we left Charlestown and
advanced towards Shepardstown. When about half
way the enemy's cavalry attacked Breckinridge's
command, which caused a halt, when Rodes'
Division came up, my Brigade being in advance, we
formed line of battle, threw out one Regiment as
skirmishers, and advanced upon them, driving them
before us. We chased them for upwards of two
hours, many of the men fainting from exhaustion.
We drove them entirely from the Baltimore and
Bunker's Hill, August 29th. - Am well.
August 30th. - Still at Bunker's Hill quiet.
August 31st. - Severe march and skirmishing.
September 1st, 1864. - At 8 A. M. we were called
out and moved down the road a few miles when we
encountered the Yankee cavalry and pushed on,
driving them through Martinsburg, leaving large
quantities of pork, corn, oats, clothes, shoes, boots,
&c. I enjoyed the sport, and after driving them ten
Camp near Winchester, September 4th. - We are having quite a stirring time, and giving the Yankees a hot time, and doing a great deal of marching ourselves.
September 6th, 1864, Stevenson's Depot. - We
have moved down in the direction of Berryville
where we formed to attack the enemy, but found
them so strongly entrenched after skirmishing for a
couple of hours we retired for the night, when we
reached camp wet, and exhausted, and hungry,
without a wagon or tent to shelter us from the rain,
spent the night all exposed and woke up next morning drenched to the skin. About ten o'clock began
to retire from the front of the enemy, and moved
down toward this point, where we started from the
day before. When within a couple of miles learned
that the enemy was between us and our encampment,
and driving our cavalry before them. My
Brigade being in advance formed and prepared to
September 7th, '64, Stevenson's Depot. - Weather terrible. No orders to move to-day.
September 10th, 1864, Stevenson's Depot. - The
weather continues very rainy. We are now very
much in need of clothes and shoes, there being at
least two hundred barefooted and half naked men
in my command. Am using every exertion to get
them clothed, but with all our rags and nakedness
can put up a most beautiful fight. The men go into
action with spirit, and I feel like a boy after being
in a fight a few minutes. To-morrow we break up
camp and again go to Bunker Hill. Gen. Early has
been very successful in all his
September 11th, 1864, Bunker Hill. - We have
again changed. Are now nearer the Potomac than
on yesterday. Expect to move again to-day. Had
to drive the enemy from this point so we could take
Stevenson's Depot, September 13th, 1864. - We are under marching orders. From the report of artillery it will be up the Valley, as the enemy appears to be advancing in that direction. The nights are very cold, find two or three blankets comfortable Stevenson's Depot, September 16th and 17th. - Had a serenade last night given by the band of the “Old Fourth Regiment,” which I appreciate as a mark of respect and esteem from my old command. Anderson's Division returned to Richmond. Only our original force left.
Strasburg, September 20th, 1864. - Yesterday we
had a most terrible fight at Winchester, and we were
very roughly handled by the enemy. We lost a
great many men, and our troops did not behave with
their usual valor. With great exertion on my part
and that of my staff mine did better than any other,
but that was not as well as I desired. Gen. Rodes
was killed. Capt. London, Capt. Still and Lieut.
Barnes, of my staff, were wounded. The horse of
one of my couriers and my own horse killed under
me, and for nine hours was under heavy fire, and
men falling around me almost every instant. Have
been as near exhausted as a man could well be, not
Strasburg, September 22d. - Requested Lieut. Barnes to telegraph you for fear the report currently in the rear of my being killed might reach you. It was a most terrible day. In the beginning we drove the enemy and killed many, and could have driven them into Harper's Ferry but for the troops on our left. Our cavalry first gave way, our infantry were flanked, then there was a general fall back. Ramseur has been assigned to this Division and Pegram to Ramseur's old command. Gen. Rodes' place cannot be supplied. He is a serious loss to the Confederacy. Capts. London, Still and Lieut. Barnes are a great loss to me; their aid was invaluable. Lieut. Howard was mortally wounded and fell into the hands of the enemy.
New Market, September 24th. - Have been so busy no time to write. Am well and safe after most fatiguing and dangerous fighting for five days. My escapes have been miraculous.
Camp near Port Republic, September 25th. - We
Near Port Republic, Sept. 26th. - A week this morning since we left camp on September 9th at Stevenson's Depot, when, in less than one hour, encountered the enemy, and, forming line, attacked him; drove some distance, inflicting most terrible punishment upon him, and then halted.
Everything up to 4 o'clock in the afternoon looked
bright, and promised well for a complete victory.
The enemy had turned their wagons back to
Harper's Ferry about 4 o'clock, then their Cavalry
charged our Cavalry, which was on the left of our
Infantry, which gave way in confusion, and their
forces came down on the left and rear of our column,
when the troops began to give way in that quarter.
About which time I received orders to swing back
and front them from that direction, allowing the
right of my Brigade to remain stationary. Upon
coming into the open field, I perceived everything
to be in the most inextricable confusion - horses
dashing over the field, cannon being run to the rear
at the top of the horses, speed, men leaving their
Weir's Cave, September 28th. - Moved around a good deal yesterday, but halted for the night near where we started in the morning, except we were on the north side of the Shenandoah. Reported the enemy are falling back to the Potomac.
Waynesboro, September 29th. - Yesterday had a
most disagreeable march, not arriving in camp until
four o'clock this morning, travelling all night in the
rear of a wagon train to protect it from Yankee
cavalry, who were threatening on all sides. Troops
beginning to recover from effects of last week's
Waynesboro, October 1st, 1864. - Yesterday was a day of rest very essential to our' comfort, for our energies were about exhausted. The enemy are reported to be falling back down the Valley, which I hope is so, unless we had an opportunity of thrashing him.
Mount Sydney, October 2nd. - Nothing of interest.
Mount Sydney, October 3rd. - The enemy slowly retiring and we following him up, but Early will profit by past experience and not risk too much.
Mount Sydney, October 4th, 1864. - Another day of rest and what was quite as much needed, a good dinner. The gentleman with whom we dined was ransomed by his wife and daughters paying all their jewelry and silver, and the house redeemed by payment of $40 in gold. Enemy near Harrisburg few miles from here.
Mount Sydney, October 6th. - This is our fourth day of rest, and have made use of it to recruit my exhausted energies. Have been drilling my men, for I know the necessity of drilling and discipline to make good soldiers, as I am anxious that those under my command should be.
Harrisonburg, October 7th. - Again on the march following the enemy.
Camp near New Market, October 9th. - It is probable we will remain in our present position - for some time. Enemy been driven below Strasburg, and as they destroyed everything on their retreat, we have not the wherewithal to subsist our army on. Country a perfect desolation. All stock and provisions destroyed.
New Market, October 10th. - Ordered down the turnpike to meet the enemy. Having gone four miles, were ordered to return to camp.
New Market, October 11th. - Just received orders to cook two days, rations and be ready to move at sunrise in the morning.
Near Woodstock, October 13th. - Are moving towards Strasburg. Enemy reported as lower down the Valley.
Near Strasburg, October 14th. - Yesterday afternoon attacked the enemy, gained quite a little victory.
Near Strasburg, Oct. 15th. - Stationary. Nothing of importance.
Near Strasburg Oct. 6th. - Enemy quiet on other side Cedar Creek.
Near Strasburg, Oct. 17th. - Yesterday reported to
Near Strasburg, Oct. 18th. - Enemy remarkably quiet.
New Market, Oct. 20th. - Yesterday morning,
after marching all night, flanked the enemy in their
position, whipping them badly, and driving them
from their breastworks, capturing twenty-odd pieces
of artillery, driving them several miles. Our left
wing shamefully gave way, which necessitated the
drawing in of our lines, which was done in considerable
confusion. At that time the Yankee Cavalry
charged and completely routed our men. It was
impossible to check the flight, officers and men
behaving shamefully. Twice the Yankees got between
me and the route I had to travel, which rendered it
necessary for me to take the woods to avoid capture.
About seven o'clock arrived at a place on Fisher's
Hill, where we halted to endeavor to gather up the
all. The demoralization was too great.
All my exertions were of no avail. I was riding a
horse that I captured in our night attack upon the
cavalry which I mention in my letter of last Monday,
and had him killed by a shell early in the engagement,
while on his back, the shell not missing my
leg two inches. Afterwards found a horse on the
field, rode him the remainder of the day. He also
was struck, but not much hurt. Had a ball to strike
me on the leg, but so slightly that the blow was
scarcely perceptible, the ball having expended its
force. General Ramseur was wounded mortally, and
fell into the hands of the enemy. General Battle,
of Alabama, severely wounded. The only salvation
for this army and the country will be to inflict severe
punishment on all who fail to discharge their duty.
There will be a general Court Martial this afternoon,
and all delinquents will be tried.
Camp near New Market, Oct. 22d. - I am now in command of Rodes' old Division - very busily engaged all my time in correcting abuses that have crept into the department during the long and arduous campaign - inspecting camp, attending drills, and hope if we are allowed a few weeks to discipline these troops, to have them as good and efficient as they were in their best days.
New Market, Oct. 23rd, 24th and 25th. - Still quiet. Busily engaged re-organizing.
October 26th. - Enemy quiet for the present. Don't know how long it will last. Have no idea when we will go into winter quarters.
New Market, Oct. 27th to 31st. - Employed in drilling and disciplining troops. All have the greatest confidence in General Early. No blame can be attached to him for our failures. Simply want of discipline among the troops.
(Report of the part taken by Rodes' Division in the action of October 19th, 1864.
In obedience to orders from Corps
Headquarters, I have the honor of submitting the
About dark on the evening of the 18th the Division moved from camps on Fisher's Hill and was halted for an hour or more near the pike, in order that Maj.-Gen. Gordon in command of the force, who was to move to the enemy's rear, could communicate with Lieut.-Gen. Early.
This halt was caused, as I unofficially learned, in consequence of information received that the enemy were fortifying that evening on their left flank. About 8 P. M. the march was resumed and after passing the stone bridge filed to the right and passed by a circuitous route around the base of Fort Mountain, by a blind path, where the troops had to march in single file. The order of March was Gordon, Rodes, Pegram. Upon reaching the Shenandoah, where crossed by the Manassas Gap Railroad, the column was halted and massed for the rear to close up. So soon as this was done, about 1 A. M., we again moved forward, following the track of the railroad until near Bucktown Station, where we again halted for an hour and a half waiting the arrival of the cavalry, who crossed the river in advance and drove in the enemy's pickets.
About four and half A. M. the infantry
This movement left a wide interval between
The enemy being then in position on a small
creek to the left of the Pike, with their artillery on
a high ridge in their rear, and firing into our line of
battle, but the smoke and fog obscured the troops
so that their fire was inaccurate. Here Major-Gen.
Ramseur had skirmishers thrown to the front and
to the right driving the sharpshooters of the enemy
from Middletown. The Division remained here
perhaps half an hour, until a battery was brought into
position on the right of the Pike, when Gen. Ramseur
again ordered an advance, which was made in
good order, and with a gallantry never exceeded.
In this advance Battle's Brigade charged a battery
in its front, capturing in addition to six guns many
prisoners and a flag. The Sixth Corps was found
posted on a hill in rear of this battery, and made a
most stubborn resistance. Grimes' Brigade was
ordered forward and charged them most gallantly, but
The artillery was at this time, about 8 A. M.,
massed on the hills near the Pike and the infantry
remained quiet until by a concentrated fire from the
artillery the Sixth Corps was dislodged from its
position, where they had erected temporary
breastworks of rails, stones, &c. Upon this hill the
Division was reformed, cartridge boxes refilled and rested
upwards of an hour. During this time skirmishers
were advanced and found that the enemy had again
made a stand at the edge of the woods, about three
fourths of a mile in advance. We then moved
forward and joined our left to Kershaw's right, halting
in the road leading from Middletown and at right
Our organization up to this time was intact. Upon the order being given to retire, did so, but the stampede on left was caught up, and no threats or entreaties could arrest their flight. Great and repeated exertions were made by the officers of the higher ranks to check the men, but all their exertions were unavailing.
Upon reaching the south side of Cedar Creek, a
few, perhaps to the number of two hundred, from
Cook's and Grimes, Brigades, formed on the right
of the Pike near Hupp Hill, but when the stream of
stragglers came running over the hill, with the cry
that the cavalry were across the creek, and prepared
to charge, these few likewise scattered, and could
The death of the brave and heroic soldier, General Ramseur, is not only a loss to this Division, but to his State and the country at large. No truer or nobler spirit has been sacrificed in this unjust and unholy war.
The conduct of the officers composing the staff
of this Division cannot be too highly lauded for
their gallantry and efficiency: Major Peyton for the
coolness and promptness with which he conveyed
orders on the field; Major Hutchinson for his
efficiency, who was captured, escaped from the enemy,
and again captured late in the :evening; Captain
Randolph displayed his usual daring; Major
Whiting, Inspector, rendered signal services by preventing
all straggling and plundering; and Lieut. Richmond,
For the conduct of others who deserve especial mention, you are respectfully referred to reports of Brigade commanders herewith transmitted.
(Further Extracts from Letters to his Wife.)
Near New Market, November 1st, 1864. - The duties of camp are suspended to-day for the purpose of commemorating our respect and attachment for our two late commanders, Rodes and Ramseur. I could not participate in the meeting, owing to a summons from General Early to meet all Division Commanders, which detained me six hours.
Camp near New Market, November 2d to 4th. - I am still here. It has rained incessantly for two days. Am busy re-organizing Rodes' Division, which I still command.
New Market, November 5th. - No news from the
enemy. They are still near Strasburg. Our movements
Headquarters Rodes' Division, November 6th. - Yesterday moved camp to present position where we have abundance of wood and water. The mountains are covered with snow this morning - very hard on barefooted and half naked men.
November 7th. - Weather continues bad.
November 8th and 9th. - Still at New Market. Yesterday at Early's Headquarters learned the enemy had 36,000 effective men for the field. More than three times our number. At recent fights they must save had at least five to one. If not for their cavalry, we could soon drive their infantry out of the Valley. When the history of the war is written, and the disparity of the forces engaged is considered, we will come out with honor; and if justice is done, it will be shown that we have done our duty.
Learned that after election in the United States, that their troops would be moved to some other quarter. They are still fortifying Winchester.
Camp near New Market, November 10th. - We leave here to-day to demonstrate against the enemy, to cause to return with their troops to prevent reinforcement of Grant. If we accomplish that, it will be all that can be expected of us.
November 12th. - Have again advanced, and are between Middletown and Winchester. Enemy falling back - don't seem disposed to fight.
November 13th. - We found the enemy, and General Early having accomplished his purpose, retired last night, and are on our way to our old camp.
November 14th. - Have just reached our old camp Too tired to write. In five days have been eating both meals at night - one before day in the morning, the other after dark.
November 15th to 19th. - Still at New Market. Weather bitterly cold.
November 20th to 22d. - Weather still continues bad, but with a good chimney to my tent keep tolerably comfortable. General Early does not speak of going into winter quarters.
Headquarters Rodes' Division, near New Market,
November 23d. - Yesterday morning just before day
Gen. Early sent me word that the enemy were
advancing and to take my command out to meet them.
The ground was covered with snow but in half an
hour we were under arms and on the way to meet
them. After going about seven miles down the
turnpike to Rudes' Hill found that our cavalry had
been driven through Mount Jackson and the enemy
had crossed the north fork of the Shenandoah and
Headquarters Rodes, Division, November 24th and 28th. - We are here with the thermometer down to about 20 deg. and the coldest nights imaginable. Hope we will go into winter quarters soon.
Headquarters Rodes, Division. - Yesterday had
a long ride and returned after dark, but feel that I
will here accomplish a good thing if the Yankee
cavalry venture another reconnoissance to find out
where we are. Our object is to get in their rear and
cut off all and as there will be but
one ford to the river by which they can rejoin their
command, and all arrangements are made to get
possession of that ford by taking a circuitous route
Headquarters Rodes' Division, November 30th. - Everything quiet with only a rumor that Gen. Rosser had whipped the enemy at Moorefield. When he returns, it is thought we will go into winter quarters.
Headquarters Rodes' Division, December 2d. - Gen. Rosser's success was quite brilliant, destroying two bridges, two hundred wagons, nine locomotive engines, besides immense amount of quartermaster's and commissary stores, and capturing nine pieces of artillery, 500 prisoners, 1000 horses and mules, and several hundred beef cattle. This is the expedition wrote you about in former letter.
Headquarters Rodes' Division, near New Market, December 2d. - I think it probable that we will reach the point at which we are to winter about the 10th of this month.
December 4th. - Still at New Market.
December 6th. - We are again disappointed in
receiving no orders to prepare for winter quarters.
Near New Market, December 8th. - Two of our Divisions, Gordon's and Pegram's, left yesterday. I presume some important move is on hand. The enemy have sent one of their Corps from our front.
Headquarters Rodes' Division, December 10th. - This morning the whole surface of the earth is covered with snow two inches deep.
Near New Market, December 13th. - Have
Richmond, December 16th. - Arrived here early this morning, and am awaiting orders from Gen. Lee.
Headquarters Rodes, Division, near Petersburg, Dec. 18th. - We have arrived at our destination, and are located about three miles from Petersburg, and hope to-day to be able to make arrangements for the winter.
GENERAL: I desire that you will avail yourself of the present period of inactivity to re-organize and recruit the troops in your command as far as practicable.
Ascertain what regiments, if any, it would be advantageous to consolidate, and how such vacancies as may exist among the officers can best be filled. In every case in which you may think the officer to be promoted unsuitable for the new grade, you will forward a report as to his qualifications, in order that he may be brought before an examining board.
The difficulty of filling vacancies properly during
active operations, and the importance of habituating
General Pickett has been directed to send one Brigade to the north side. This thins his line somewhat. You may have to move up to support him. He has been informed that should occasion require that he should have assistance, and should he request it of you, that you would be instructed to move up at once without waiting for orders from here. Please govern your action accordingly.
General Pickett has just received a telegram from General Lee stating that a Brigade from your Division has been ordered, to relieve our right Brigade (Tovey's) early in the morning, so as to enable it to occupy the line formerly held by General Corse. The General desires me to say to you that great caution would have to be observed to prevent the movement of the troops from being seen from “the Tower”, that it will probably be best to delay relieving the picket until after dark to-morrow night. He advises that you send as large a Brigade as possible, as General Tovey's line at present covers a great deal of ground. He suggests also that the officer who relieves this Brigade had better see Colonel Florivree, who is in command at this time, as early, as possible in the morning, to make such arrangements as will most effectually secure the movements of the men from being observed by the enemy.
General Lee bids me say that he wishes you tomorrow morning to move one of your Brigades to the position now occupied by General Pickett's right Brigade on the Bermuda Hundreds line. His object is to relieve that Brigade, so that it can be moved to another point. You will find comfortable huts on the line, which the Brigade will occupy. In all military operations the commanding officer of the Brigade will report to General Pickett while on his line. General Gordon has been notified of this order.
GENERAL: The General Commanding desires you to have your Division prepared to move promptly, in the morning should you receive orders to that effect.
Have everything in readiness to move without delay.
It may be necessary to send you to the north side of the James river.
The enemy's cavalry have not passed beyond Dinwiddie C. H. They advanced to that point and then retired.
The General says you need not go up the road. He wishes you to remain where you are, or near, any where near it. Your men can be made comfortable for the night. If they cannot be made comfortable, you will move down the Boydton plankroad until you can get to some wood. If you move, report your location when you halt.
COLONEL: The note from Gen. Ransom's
Headquarters in relation to movement of troops, is
received. If there is an accumulation of force on
this flank by the enemy with a view to serious move
[Endorsed as follows.]
A movement of trains loaded with troops to the enemy's left was reported this evening, and you had better keep your Division prepared to move. Though it may not be necessary, it is advisable to be ready.
[Further extracts from letters to his wife.]
February 15th. - Remained in-camp near Petersburg until about the middle of the month. Request from Gen. Gordon to have Grimes' Division report to him in case of battle. Received my commission as Major-General 15th February, 1865.
Sutherland Depot, February 24th, 12 miles from Petersburg. - Left camp and came here as there was a prospect of a fight, but the heavy rains have delayed it.
February 28th. - Still at Sutherland's Depot. In accepting the appointment of Major-General, I hope I shall never bring discredit upon myself. The higher the position the more there is expected, and like all others who have done their duty in this war, have made enemies, but care little for them, provided I can perform my duties satisfactorily to my superior officers and for the good of the country.
Sutherland's Depot, March 1st. - Have been riding all day in order to learn the different roads in the surrounding country, and laying off new ones to enable me to move with rapidity to any point when my services may be required.
Sutherland's, March 2d. - Nothing of interest. Still stuck in the mud.
March 3d and 5th. - Roads still in such bad condition that they are almost impassable.
March 7th and 8th. - Still at Sutherland's. Had a serenade last night - the only thing to break the monotony. Weather still continues bad.
March 8th. - Still quiet.
March 10th. - This is the day set apart by the
March 12th. - Am worn out from fatigue and want of sleep. Received orders at 2 A. M. to leave for Dunlap's before daylight. At 4 A. M. began the march and upon nearly reaching the pontoon, received another dispatch countermanding the order. There was a rumor that Sheridan's raiders were moving on Richmond, and that caused the move.
Petersburg, March, 14th, 1865. - Yesterday received orders to come to Petersburg and relieve Bushrod Johnson's Division, which I did, completing my march about 12 o'clock last night. Suffered terribly from sick nervous headache, attributed to a glass of wine I took at General Lee's, who noticed that I looked pale and fatigued, and recommended a glass of wine, and as this was something very unusual with him, concluded I would take it, and suffered in consequence.
This morning was up early examining everything on my line. Went to each picket post, and at some points so close you could almost see the whites of the Yankees' eyes. The Yankee lines are in full view, and at night there is constant firing between the pickets.
March 16th, 17th, 22d, 25th, Petersburg. - Telegraphed this morning of my welfare. This morning we charged the enemy's works and captured them, taking twelve to fifteen pieces of artillery, and a good many prisoners, but after taking their works they concentrated a large number of cannon upon us, besides several times our number of infantry and we were obliged to succumb after fighting two and a half hours, and retire to our breastworks. My loss was heavy, being 478 officers and men. Lieut. Barnes wounded. As usual I captured a horse to ride during the fight, as I could not get mine over the breastworks. It would have done your heart good to hear the men cheer as I rode up and down the line urging them to do their duty, but would to heaven this carnage was over and I permitted to retire from such scenes and live a quiet and domestic life.
Petersburg, March 27th. - Am well, trust you did not hear the report of my being killed. When Gen. Gordon saw me, he seemed very much surprised. Said he had just sent a flag of truce to recover my body, but I was pleased to know I had brought myself off safe.
March 28th. - Still at Petersburg.
March 29th, Petersburg. - Lieut. Barnes is doing
March . Our troops were to attack the enemy
this morning at Burgen's Mills, and I trust that they
may whip them. For once I am out of it, and not
among the attacking party.
You are hereby informed that the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, has appointed you
In the Provisional Army in the service of the Confederate States, to rank as such from the NINETEENTH day of MAY, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four.
Immediately on receipt hereof please to communicate to this Department, through the Adjutant and Inspector General's office, your acceptance or non-acceptance of said appointment, and with your letter of acceptance return to the Adjutant and Inspector General the OATH herewith enclosed, properly filled up, subscribed and attested, reporting at the same time your Age, Residence, when appointed, and the State in which you were Born.
Should you accept, you will report for duty to Gen. R. E. Lee, to command late Daniel's Brigade.
HEADQUARTERS
DEPARTMENT NORTHERN VIRGINIA.
[Extract.]
SPECIAL ORDER
No. .
III. Brigadier-General Bryan Grimes is assigned to the command of Daniel's old Brigade, Rodes, Division, 2nd Army Corps.
You are hereby informed that the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, has appointed you
Major-General,
In the Provisional Army in the service of the Confederate States, to rank as such from the Fifteenth day of February, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-five.
Immediately on receipt hereof please to communicate to this Department through the Adjutant and Inspector General's office your acceptance or non-acceptance of said appointment, and with your letter of acceptance return to the Adjutant and Inspector General the OATH, herewith enclosed, properly filled up, subscribed and attested, reporting at the same time your Age, Residence, when appointed, and the State in which you were Born.
Should you accept, you will report for duty to Gen. R. E. Lee to command the late Gen. Rodes, Division A. N. V.
[Extract.]
SPECIAL ORDER No. 55.
XV. Major-General Bryan Grimes, P. A. C. S., is hereby assigned to the command of Rodes, old Division, 2nd Corps, and will report accordingly.
Dear Sir: In compliance with your request, I
herewith transmit my recollections of the
circumstances attending the last days of the existence of
the Army of Northern Virginia, embracing several
days previous to the final surrender at Appomattox
Court House.
On the night of Saturday, April 1, 1865, my
Division occupied a portion of the defences around
the city of Petersburg, my left resting on Otey's
Battery, near the memorable Crater, my right
extending to the dam on a creek beyond Battery 45,
Ramseur's old Brigade of North Carolinians being
commanded by Col. W. R. Cox, 2nd North Carolina,
holding appointment as temporary Brigadier; on their
right Archer's Brigade of Virginia Junior Reserves,
Grimes' old Brigade of North Carolinians,
commanded by Col. D. G. Cowand, of the 32d North
Carolina, Battle's Brigade of Alabamians, commanded by
Col. Hobson of 5th Alabama, Cook's Brigade of
Georgians commanded by Col. Nash, extending to
the left in the order above named, numbering for
duty about 2,200 muskets, covering at least three and
a half miles of the trenches around Petersburg, with
one third of my men constantly on picket duty in
About 10 o'clock on the night of April 1, 1865,
the cannonading from the artillery and mortars in
my front became unusually severe, and at about 11
o'clock the Federals charged, capturing my picket
line, which consisted of pits dug in the earth for
protection from sharp shooters, and occupied by my
soldiers varying in distance from 150 to 300 yards in
front of our main breastworks. I took measures
immediately to re-establish this line, which was
successfully accomplished, and our pits re-occupied.
About daylight of the 2nd the enemy again drove
in our pickets and charged Rune's salient at the
point where Battle's Brigade was posted, carrying
the works for a few hundred yards on each side of
that point, doubling and throwing Cook's Brigade
back a short distance. I hurried the commands of
Cols. Cowand and Archer to the point of attack as
rapidly as possible, charging the enemy who were
in possession of and protected by our traverses and
bomb
I then secured four pieces of artillery which were placed in our second line of works, whose services were invaluable in checking the advance of the enemy, thus confining them by grape and canister to this particular point at the salient, preventing their advancing to attack our lines in flank or rear; Cook and Battle holding them in check on the left, and Cowand and Archer on the right of the captured works, their only point of egress being exposed to the fire of the artillery.
I regret my inability to recall the names and thus give honorable mention to those gallant artillerists who rendered me such effective service.
During the forenoon Brigade, under
command of Col. , reported to me for duty and
were placed near the artillery in this second line
of earthworks (which had been constructed to
fall back upon in case of disaster) to our first line.
My dispositions were soon made to attack the
enemy simultaneously at all points - Cowand
and Archer on the right, Cook and Battle on
the left, who were to drive them from the
protection of their traverses. Col. commanded
, this attack only partially succeeded,
capturing that portion of the line alone upon which
the skirmishers advanced, Col. having changed
the direction of attack, and charged the point
assigned to the skirmishers on the right, thereby
leaving a space of three hundred yards unassailed.
There is no doubt in my mind if Col. had
attacked with vigor at that time, we could have driven
the enemy entirely from our works. After the lapse
of an hour, during which time the enemy were
heavily reinforced, I ordered another attack from
the second line in which Col. participated, but
by again diverting his Brigade in the direction of
Cowand's Brigade, instead of towards the salient,
the enemy were dislodged from only a small portion
of the lines.
Subsequently sixty men of Johnston's North
Carolina Brigade, under command of Capt. Plato
Durham, recaptured Fort Mahone, which for an
hour had been so covered by our fire as to forbid
After this no general attack was made, though we continued slowly but gradually to drive them from traverse to traverse.
About nightfall the enemy occupied some two hundred yards of our breastworks - through no inefficiency or negligence on the part of the officers and men were the works carried, but owing to the weakness of the line, its extreme length, and the want of sufficient force to defend it, for they acted most heroically on this trying occasion. Only one unwounded man (an officer) did I see seeking the rear, and he one whom I had the previous day ordered under arrest for trafficking with the enemy (ex changing tobacco for coffee). Him I hailed and inquired where he was going, when he recalled his arrest the previous day, from which I immediately released him and sent him back to his command.
I had a verbal conference with Gen. Lee and
On Sunday night of the 2nd we had orders to
abandon the works, and without the knowledge of
the Federals we withdrew to the north side of the
Appomattox river, following the Hickory road to
Goode's bridge, where we recrossed the Appomattox,
proceeding towards Amelia C. H., which we reached
I then formed Cox's and Cowand's Brigades in
line of battle, with a heavy skirmish line in front to
impede their progress and to cover our rear, sending
Battle's, Cook's and Archer's Brigades forward for
one half mile to form there, across the road, in line
of battle, in order to allow Cowand and Cox to
retreat safely when the enemy had deployed and
prepared to attack; our right flank being protected by
a North Carolina Brigade of cavalry under General
Roberts. In this manner alternating the Brigades
throughout the day we continued to oppose the
enemy and retreat, endeavoring to protect the
lagging wagon train, which was successfully done up to
about 4 o'clock P. M., when we approached Sailor's
Creek, and upon the ridge running parallel with that
The enemy pushed on rapidly, attacking us with
very great pertinacity. We here repeatedly repulsed
their assaults, but by turning both of our flanks they
succeeded in not only dislodging but driving us
across the creek in confusion. About now the
artillery from the heights, occupied by Gen. Lee,
opened upon the enemy, and the sun being down
they did not cross the creek. After we broke,
personally I was so pressed that the space between
the two wings of the enemy was not over two
hundred yards when I sought safety in retreat. I
galloped to the creek (the bridge being in their
possession) where the banks were very precipitous, and
for protection from their murderous fire concluded
to jump my horse in, riding him through the water
and effect my escape by abandoning him on the
other side, the bullets of the enemy whistling around
me like hail all the while. By great good fortune
the opposite banks proving not so precipitous and
my horse seeming to appreciate the situation, clambered
The next morning (Friday) we continued our
march down the railroad and formed line of battle
on the Lynchburg road, still endeavoring to preserve
that “impediment of Caesar's” - the wagon train -
marching by the left flank through the woods
parallel to the road traveled by the wagon train, and
about one hundred or so yards distant from the
road. Upon reaching the road and point that turns
towards Lynchburg from the Cumberland road,
three of my Brigades, Cook's, Cox's and Cowand's,
had crossed the Cumberland road and were in line
of battle, and at right angles with Battle's and
Archer's Brigades, who were still parallel with the
Cumberland road. Heavy firing was going on at:
this point, when Gen. Mahone came rushing up
and reported that the enemy had charged, turning
his flank, and driving his men, from their guns and
the works which he had erected early in the day for
the protection of these cross roads. I then ordered
We reached this road, halting and keeping the enemy in check until the wagons had passed, and then continued the march parallel with the road travelled by the wagon train, continuing thus to march until night, when we took the road following to protect the trains.
On Saturday the 8th no enemy appeared, and
we marched undisturbed all day. Up to this time
since the evacuation of Petersburg we had marched
day and night, continually followed and
By dark my men were all quiet and asleep. About
nine o'clock I heard the roar of artillery in our front
and in consequence of information received I had
my command aroused in time and passed through
the town of Appomattox C. H. before daylight,
where, upon the opposite side of the town, I found
the enemy in my front. Throwing out my skirmishers
and forming line of battle, I reconnoitered and
satisfied myself as to their position, and awaited the
arrival of Gen. Gordon for instructions, who awhile
before day, accompanied by Gen. Fitz. Lee, came
to my position when we held a council of war.
Gen. Gordon was of the opinion that the troops in
The enemy, upon seeing us move off, rushed out from under cover with a cheer, when Cox's Brigade lying concealed at the brow of a hill, rose and fired a volley into them, which drove them back into the woods, the Brigade then following their retreating comrades in line of battle unmolested. After proceeding about half the distance to the position occupied by us in the morning, a dense mass of the enemy in column (Infantry) appeared on our right, and advanced without firing towards the earthworks captured by us in the early morning, when a Battery of our artillery opened with grape and cannister, and drove them under the shelter of the woods.
As my troops approached their position of the
morning, I rode up to General Gordon and asked
where I should form line of battle. He replied,
“Anywhere you choose.” Struck by the strangeness
of the reply, I asked an explanation, whereupon
he informed me that we would be surrendered. I
expressed very forcibly my dissent to being surrendered,
Upon reaching them, one of the soldiers inquired if General Lee had surrendered, and upon answering I feared it was a fact that we had been surrendered, he cast away his musket, and holding his hands aloft, cried in an agonized voice, “Blow, Gabriel, blow! My God, let him blow, I am ready to die!” We then went beyond the creek at Appomattox Court House, stacked arms amid the bitter tears of bronzed veterans regretting the necessity of capitulation.
Among the incidents, ever fresh in my memory, of this fatal day to the Confederacy, is the remark of a private soldier. When riding up to my old regiment to shake by the hand each comrade who had followed me through four years of suffering, toil, and privation often worse than death, to bid them a final affectionate, and, in many instances, an eternal farewell, a cadaverous, ragged, barefooted man, grasped me by the hand, and choking with sobs, said: “Good-bye, General; God bless you, we will go home; make three more crops, and try them again.” I mention this instance simply to show the spirit, the pluck, and the faith of our men in the justice of our cause, and that he surrendered more to grim famine than to the prowess of our enemies.
That day, and the next, the terms of surrender were adjusted: the following day our paroles signed and countersigned; and on Wednesday, April 12th, 1865, we stacked arms in an old field, and each man sought his home as best he might.
I have given in the above a simple, true; and unvarnished statement of facts, occurring during the
dying struggles of the Army of Northern Virginia, in
so far, only as I was an eye-witness and participant
in those events; with no view to laud my own
achievements, or seeming to seek an undeserved
I assert that I was at Appomattox, and that I commanded my own Division at Appomattox; and General Gordon, the Corps commander, bears me out in this assertion, and, moreover, states that I volunteered my services, and did make the last charge made by the Infantry at Appomattox.
My Dear Sir: I owe you a thousand thanks
for your full and extremely valuable letter. It
explains many things I did not understand before, and
will greatly add to the vindication of the North
Carolinians as to the last sad hours of the Army of
Northern Virginia. Pray excuse my delay in
acknowledging your great kindness, and believe me,
General Grimes' Reply to Letter of Chas. C. Jones, Jr., April 16, 1872.
Accept my sincere thanks for your book, and
although as you say local in its character, have
derived great pleasure from perusal. The mention of
Gen. Colquitt's name recalled some associations with
it. One was that upon reaching Yorktown, April
9th, (1862,) we relieved the sixth Georgia Regiment
and established ourselves in Col. Colquitt's “hole in
the ground” with a tent over it, and in a few days
found one of the attendants of close quarters, and
my person covered before we ever dreamed of such
pests. Another reminiscence is having a Bible (in
my library now) picked up on the night of our
retreat from Yorktown, I having been detailed to bring
off the pickets. I enclose you autographs of
Generals Ramseur and Daniel, with his approval upon
application for leave of absence while near Orange
Court House; also a paper addressed to Col. Taylor,
I suppose upon which I made this application. I
have fragments and skeletons of reports made of
different engagements - Gettysburg, last few days of
the war, from breaking of our lines at Petersburg to
the morning of surrender at Appomattox Court
House, and some others. The last infantry charge
by the Army of Northern Virginia was made by my
et id omne genus
[Letter from Gen. J. B. Gordon.]
MY DEAR GENERAL: Yours asking my recollection
of the participation of your Division in the last
day's battle at Appomattox C. H. would have been
answered before I left my home in Georgia, but for
circumstances beyond my control. It is a source of
pleasure to me not only to do this but also to
express my sincere appreciation of your valuable
services during that portion of the war when it was
my fortune to command the 2nd Corps Army Northern
Virginia, to which your Division was attached.
When I was first placed in command of the Corps
in the Fall of 1864 at or near Petersburg, you will
remember that you were detached from the other
Divisions and did not join them until a short time
before the attack upon Gen. Grant's lines in front
of Petersburg. You participated in the battles then
and during the terrible days and nights which
followed prior to and after the breaking of our lines
by Grant's army, as well as upon the retreat. But
it is of the last fight of the army of Northern
Virginia in which you bore so conspicuous a part at
Appomattox C. H. that you ask my recollections. It
The plan agreed upon at the counsel of war held
at Gen. Lee's Headquarters during the night of the
8th between Gen. Lee, Gen. Pendleton commanding
the artillery, Gen. Fitz Hugh Lee commanding the
cavalry, Gen. Longstreet and myself who
commanded the two wings of his army, was this: My
command, consisting of about one half of the army
with the cavalry, was to attack the enemy's cavalry
in front of Appomattox C. H., and attempt to cut
a way out, and Longstreet and the artillery not engaged with my command and the wagon train, was
to follow. It was supposed that nothing more than
Your Division with the other troops were placed
in line while Gen. Fitz Hugh Lee's cavalry moved
to our right. The attack was made and proved
eminently successful, resulting in the capture of the
enemy's works which he had temporarily thrown up
in our front, and the taking of six pieces (I think)
of his artillery. You were not halted for a considerable time but pressed steadily forward to the front,
until I ordered you to rear, upon receiving intelligence
from Gen. R. E. Lee that a flag of truce was
in existence between himself and Gen. Grant, and
upon the appearance and advance of heavy bodies
of infantry upon both our flanks. Your
indisposition to retreat then, and your anxiety to go on, was
manifest; but I knew more of the situation than
you did, and in accordance with the understanding
at the counsel of war the night previous, the
appearance of these large bodies of the enemy's infantry, and the impossibility of Gen. Longstreet's
On the receipt of the note from Gen. Lee I ordered you to the rear, and notified Gen. Sheridan of the existence of a “Flag of Truce,” who insisted upon the separate surrender of my command to him, which I refused. It was at this time you asked me what the meaning was of my instructions to you to put your men in any position you could select, and suggested that I permit you to return to the front. It was very painful to announce to you and to the troops the surrender of the army, and when you were made aware of it, you expressed your regret that I had not informed you while you were in front, that you might have made the effort to escape with your command.
I was touched, General, by your indisposition to
meet this dreaded ordeal, as I was by the grief, the
anguish of all our brave men, but it was all
overall was done that could be done by they army, and
any escape of small bodies of troops would have
been charged as treachery on Gen. Lee's part toward
robbed us, in
the name of Liberty have inaugurated the rule of
the Bayonet, arrested and imprisoned the innocent,
and gloated in the oppression of our citizens.
May the God of Righteousness bring us deliverance.
On page 95 of Col. Walter H. Taylor's book
entitled “Four Years with General Lee,” (which book
“General Lee witnessed the flight of the Federals through Gettysburg and up the hills beyond. He then directed me to go to General Ewell and to say to him, that from the position which he occupied he could see the enemy retreating over those hills without organization and in great confusion, that it was only necessary to press “those people” in order to secure possession of the heights, and that, if possible, he wished him to do this. In obedience to these instructions, I proceeded immediately to General Ewell and delivered the order of General Lee; and after receiving from him some message for the commanding general in regard to the prisoners captured, returned to the latter and reported that his order had been delivered.”
All around the margin of this page appears the following in pencil, and written in Gen. Grimes, own handwriting:
“I was in the lead and saw the first pieces of
artillery, two in number, making for this hill. The
enemy were routed and retreating in great confusion.
Gen. Ramseur, with my regiment in advance, were
rushing up, and following the enemy, and without
the slightest doubt in my mind, could have captured
Gen. Ramseur says in his report of the battle of Gettysburg, (see Southern Historical Papers. - C.):
“The enemy was pushed through Gettysburg to the heights beyond, when I received an order to halt and form line of battle in a street in Gettysburg running east and west.
“To Colonel Parker, 30th North Carolina; Colonel Bennett, 19th North Carolina; Colonel Grimes, 4th North Carolina, and Major Hurt, 2nd North Carolina, my thanks are due for skill and gallantry displayed by them in this day's fight.”
General Grimes received a copy of Moore's History of North Carolina only a few days before his death, and had but little opportunity to examine it, and had only read disconnected parts of it.
On page 170, Vol. II, in the two last lines of said
page he makes the following corrections: Erases
“Twelfth, Colonel Daniel,” and writes, “Fourteenth,
On page 190, Vol. II, on the left margin of said page, appears the following written also in pencil in his own handwriting:
“I commanded Anderson's Brigade at this battle, consisting of the 2nd, 4th, 14th and 30th Regiments of N. C. Troops.
BRYAN GRIMES.”
On page 259, Vol. II, Major Moore in describing Gen. Lee leading the charge in person at the battle of Spottsylvania, C. H., places the date of this charge in person by Gen. Lee on the morning of the 10th of May.
On the right margin of said page is written in pencil: “It was on the 5th May that Gen. Lee led the charge in person.”
On page 260, Vol. II, Major Moore says: “Conspicuous in this charge was the youthful and slender form of Brigadier-General Stephen D. Ramseur, of Lincoln county, North Carolina.” On the left margin of said page is written in pencil: “This charge was led by Col. Bryan Grimes, commanding Ramseur's Brigade, Ramseur being disabled by a wound.”
[About the time the printing of this book was nearly completed the following was found in a book in Gen. Grimes' library, in his own handwriting, and is given here exactly as it is written. - C.]
Ewell's Corps, composed of Rodes, Early and
Johnson's commands, surprised Gen. Milroy. We
drove the enemy's cavalry from the summit, and
ousted them to intercept the retreat of the enemy
from Winchester. Captured the cavalry camp at
Berryville. We moved down to Martinsburg and
drove the enemy into and through the town, taking
several pieces of artillery and 700 prisoners. Then
moved up and crossed the Potomac river at
Williamsport. Occupied Chambersburg on 23rd of June,
1863. Was Provost Marshal of Hagerstown. There
we spent several days, and then moved to
Chambersburg. Insidious talk of man of Company A,
turned him over to his own men for punishment.
Sent to Carlisle within eight miles of Harrisburg on
picket duty. Headquarters in brick house. Woman's
remark about Quartermaster. Regiment quartered
in a very large house. Saw the Perry militia coming
out with their high sugar-loaf hats. Put a portion
of my picket in ambush, allowing militia to pass,
surprising them in front, and shooting in their
rear. Supplied my men with their hats, which fell
off in their confusion. Their stampede through