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Last update: 15 June 2004

As I researched Captain Taylor who had started the Smithville Academy, Smithville OH,  just before he joined the War, I became interested in the students who followed him to join in the fight to preserve the Union.  As time went along, I wanted to know about the others, first in Company H and then in the remaining companies.  The information on this site is what I have found so far.  It is a work in progress.  

On this page------a little about the 120th in the War.
On the other pages.......the Company Rosters and notes about the men.

If you have information to add or corrections to be made about the men listed on these pages, please let me know.  I will be happy to add it.

According to Captain James B. Taylor of the Smithville Academy in a speech he gave in 1920 at one of the Smithville Academy reunions, he "applied to the Military Commission of Wayne County for authority to enlist a company, and on Aug. 13 authority was given and.......on the morning of August 15 at the opening exercises [at the school] announced to the assembled students that the call of patriotic duty under the appeal of the President had become irresistible and that [he] had enlisted in the 120th Ohio Vol. Inft....."
He became part of Company H.

The last names in blue in this paragraph were mentioned by Taylor in the reunion speech.  He said that "quite a number of the boys of the school followed me in their enlistment" and he recalled these names.....Bair, Baker, Bricker, Bushong, Keiffer, Miller, Myers, Mylar, Norris, Orr, Starn, Stauffer, Stutzman, Yoder, Martin, Foltz, and Wilson.   However, I am not sure which of those with repeated last names in the Roster were actually the ones he referred to in his speech.   He made special mention of Isaiah N. Kieffer who had become a Lutheran minister and reentered the service for the Spanish American War.  Isaiah was in Company A.  This makes me think that some of the students joined companies other than Taylor's Company H.   According to Taylor, five companies got on the train at Wooster on 29 August 1862 to go to Mansfield, OH for encampment.  I don't know at this time if most of his students who joined were a part of Company H. I do know that David Foltz and Isaiah Kieffer were in Company A.  As for Wilson, there are a number of men by that last name in the 120th, but none in Company H.  And I found that not all the men in Company H had their roots in Wayne County.

Go to this page to see more about Captain James Taylor and the private high school in Smithville.

From the History of Wayne County, Ohio by Ben Douglas, c. 1878
[The parts of this page that are printed in this red color are from this book.]

Hardesty's Wayne = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia (Wayne County version)  1885
Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia (Richland County version) 1885

"Four companies, and a large part of a fifth company, in the 120th Regiment were raised in Wayne county....  The five Wayne county companies were recruited in August, 1862, and rendezvoused at Camp Mansfield on the 29th of August...."

Wooster Republican 21 Aug 1862
Five new Companies in Wayne county
"Five more new military companies have been organized in Wayne county under authority from the Governor, and are now fast filling up, some of them having very nearly the minimum number."

"All these companies ought to be immediately filled up; and will be by draft if not by volunteers.  The officers are all good men for the positions and every able bodied young man in the county should at once place his name on one or another of these companies, until they are full."

Hardesty's Richland: (George Stake biography page 486) "The regiment was assigned to the 3d brigade, 4th division, General Long's corps.  They were ordered from Mansfield, Ohio , to Covington, Kentucky, and at the end of a month went by steamers to Memphis Tennessee."
_________________________________________________________________________

Letter from James B. Taylor, 2nd Lieut.
Wooster Republican, 27 Nov 1862

From the 120th Ohio
(To) E. Foreman - Dear Sir:-
To fulfill a promise made you on our departure from Wooster, as well as to afford the kind friends of the 120th the pleasure of hearing from us, I have seated myself amidst the noise and tumult occasioned by the preparations which are being made for a move, to write you "a wee small letter."
Under such circumstances my epistle must necessarily be disconnected.
"Perhaps it may turn out a song,
Perhaps turn out a sermon."
You have doubtless heard that we left Camp Mansfield--that we came to Covington and have been guarding the city and fortifications against an approaching enemy, who is yet far distant--that we are comfortably quartered in good barracks &c.  None of this would be news to your readers.  The health of the regiment is tolerably good, no cases of serious illness, yet many are afflicted with "mumps." --
The prospects of a move soon clears the hospital  One week ago we received marching orders for Memphis, expected to leave the next day.  The order was subsequently countermanded, but to-day was again issued. We leave to-morrow morning.  The boys are exceedingly tired of Covington, and as anxious to leave.  Being well acquainted with the history of the 16th Ohio, the boys greatly feared that we would be sent in the direction of Bowling Green.  By the way we had the extreme pleasure of meeting the 16th on lst Saturday.  DeCourcey's whole Brigade lay here from Friday evening until Sabbath.  They left here for Louisville.  They received their pay on their way down from the Kanawha Valley. ---
The boys were in fine spirits, and, as ever ready for fight.  The 120th knows but little about war, nothing more than to lie on pine boards in warm barracks, live on good rations, stand guard and drill three or four hours per day.  We will soon experience the reality, and in my next I may perhaps have a different picture to paint.  We entered the army "for better or for worse," we have had the better, hence we will wait patiently for the "worse."
In one of your last papers I see that Capt. Downing has furnished you with a list of the names of his company.  I herewith send you the names of company H, which you may publish if you deem expedient.  Our 1st Lieutenant Bryan Grant, has not been with the regiment since we left Camp Mansfield, nor have we heard from him, suppose he is unable to join the regiment. [The Roster of Ohio Soldiers shows nothing listed for Grant under "remarks".]
I will write again when we will have marched to Memphis.
Truly yours,
Lieut. J. B. Taylor

[Company H was then listed.  Of note, Isaac S. Mylar was listed as Teamster and Charles E. Miller, as Drummer.]

Hardesty's Richland: (George Stake, Co. H, biography page 486) "In two weeks they again embarked [from Memphis], and were transported down the Mississippi river to the mouth of the Yazoo, and up that river twenty miles, where they debarked, and were immediately ordered in line of battle.  They marched during the day and lay on their arms at night, and the following day they were ordered to the front. For five successive days at Chickasaw Bluffs they took part in a series of engagements...."

Hardesty's Richland: (Moses Andrews, Co. H, biography page 482) "At the battle of Chickasaw Bluffs the 16th Ohio Volunteer Infantry made the first charge and were repulsed, several of their number being taken prisoners.  The 120th then charged, but the rebels' position was a strong one and they were compelled to fall back.  The whole army began to retreat and the 120th covered the retreat."

[J.W. Bricker at the May 1937 Reunion of the 120th stated that he believed that "Vicksburg would have been taken if it hadn't been for the fact that a million rations designated for another Union army approaching from a different direction, were captured by the Confederates, thus forcing that army to proceed to a base farther northward..."    Found in a news article in Dr. Anna Yoder's Scrapbook at Wooster library.]

Bushong, Andrew C. [Green Twp]  Died 27 Dec 1862 at Memphis TN (See letter from James B. Taylor below.)

Chickasaw Bayou, Miss.  28-29 December  1862
Foss, John J. A.     Wounded at Chickasaw Bayou, 28 Dec 1862

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  This book states in the bio of Martin Sharp of Company B: " ....he was engaged in the battle of Chickasaw Bluff, Mississippi, or as it was called, Sherman's second attack on Vicksburg, in January 1863.  On the seventh day of this battle the Union forces were driven back to their boats on White river. They succeded in getting on board, but were under so terrific a fire from the artillery and musketry of the enemy that not a smoke-stack was left on any of the boats on the river.  Two of the officers, captain and first lieutenant of his company, fled from their commands upon the firing of the first volley."

Hardesty's Wayne:  page 508, bio of Simon M. Bott of Company E:   "Under Sherman he took part in the battle of Chickasaw Bayou.  There are but five entrances to the land in the chain of bayous on this bank of the river, and these were in possession of the enemy, and so strongly fortified that when our troops attempted a landing they were swept by such a fire and cross fire that advance was impossible.  Falling down the river with the troops on crowded transports, with poor and scanty provisions and miserable water, disease proved as formidable a foe to our soldiers as the confederate army in their well fortified position."  

Hardesty's Richland:  bio of Joseph Brown Pritchard of Company B:  "They went on an expedition up the Yazoo river, in order to get in the rear of Vicksburg.  Writing to his father and mother January 4, 1863, he said that early on Sunday moring the rebels opened fire on them, and they were kept flanking on double quick for almost two days......Their regiment made a charge on a battery, but were repulsed with seven men wounded.  On Thursday night the order was given to retreat, and this was accomplished so quietly that the rebels knew nothing of their movements until they were nearly all on board of the transports.  The enemy attacked them that night, but were driven back by the gunboats."

Stutzman, Ezra [Green Twp]  Died 6 Jan 1863 at Memphis TN
 

  Arkansas Post , Ark.  11 Jan. 1863
"After the repulse of the national forces from Vicksburg, the regiment embarked on transports, and accompanied the expedition against Arkansas Post, which resulted successfully.  The 120th charged splendidly on the enemy's works in this engagement."

Hardesty's Wayne co.:  (Henry Hartman, Co. D, biography page 506)"Owing to the efficient service of the Foster battery, which disabled the rifled cannon which commanded the field, and also that of the gunboat Benton, disabling the cannon commanding the river, this entrance was effected with but small loss of life.  When the fort was in the hands of the Union soldiers, having no other ammunition, they cut the railroad iron which guarded the outside of the fort and shot into the ranks of the foe and it proved a more destructive weapon than the shell. "

Who really planted the flag at Arkansas Post???  Various versions:
Hardesty's Richland: (George Stake, Company H, biography page 486)" ...and the 120th regiment was the first to enter the rebel stronghold.  Lieutenant Wallace, of this regiment, planted the colors on the ramparts." [Robert P. Wallace, company E]

Hardesty's Richland: (George Flaharty, Company H, biography page 483)"Captain Phelan, of Company H, was the first man to enter the rebel stronghold, and his company the first to plant the Stars and stripes on the fort."

Hardesty's Richland:  (Erastus B. Wilson biography) "At the charge on the fort at Arkansas Post, their regiment was the first to enter the fort, and Mr. Wilson [Company B] assisted the color-bearer to plant the flag on the ramparts."

From The Wooster Republican, 22 Jan 1863, p. 2

The Victory at Arkansas Post
The Place Taken by Storm
From 7,000 to 10,000 Prisoners, Stores, &c. Captured

Memphis, Jan. 11
Major-Gen. Halleck, General-in-Chief
The following dispatch is just received:
Headq'rts Army of Mississippi
Post of Arkansas, Jan. 11
Major-General Grant, Commanding Department of Tennessee:
I have the honor to report that the forces under my command attacked the Post of Arkansas to-day.  Having stormed the enemy's works, we took a large number of prisoners, variously estimated at from 7,000 to 10,000, together with all his stores, and munitions of war.  Rear Admiral David D. Porter, commanding the Mississippi squadron, effectively and brilliantly co-operated in accomplishing this complete success.
John A. McClernand,
Major General Commanding

______________________

 
In The Wooster Republican, 14 June 1899, was an account of the 31st annual reunion of the 120th Regiment O.V.I. which was held at Perrysville, Ohio on 6 June.  At the reunion a letter from John McClernand was read:

"Springfield, Ill, June 2, 1899
Lieutenant J.P. Van Nest, Secretary,
Dear Comrade
  I greet with thanks your letter requesting a message of remembrance to my surviving comrades of the 120th O.V. Infantry, to be read on the occasion of their Reunion, on the 6th instant. As the weight of years and infirmity will deny me the pleasure of personally joining them on that occasion, I have great pleasure in complying with your request.
  The conspicuous and important part borne by the 120th Ohio Regiment in the assault upon and the capture of Arkansas Post in the entirety of its Garrison, defenses and stores, is still fresh in my memory.  The feat was a coup de main, eliciting the applause of President Lincoln, who wrote me that the "Success was both brilliant and valuable.  In fact its value was enhanced by the consideration, that the coup came upon the heel of disaster sustained by the National arms both upon the Mississippi and Potomac.  The feat was potent in restoring our military prestige.
  Please convey to my surviving comrades of the 120th Regiment, the assurance of my grateful remembrance of their valor and patriotic devotion in the time that tried men's souls.
Your Old Commander and Comrade,
John A. McClernand

See Arkansas Post National Memorial at this site:
http://www.nps.gov/arpo/

Hardesty's Richland: (George Stake biography page 486)  "Mr. Stake and his comrades were next employed in digging the canal near Vicksburg, Mississippi.  They worked for six days, and then the project was abandoned."

Wooster Republican 29 Jan 1863
A list of wounded and sick of the 16th and 120th Ohio Regiments who were in hospitals at Memphis and Paducah was published.  Included in this list were DL Hough, co H, 120th [this is probably David L. Hoff] in Overton Hospital at Memphis TN;Joseph Myers, co. H 120th, in No. 3 Hospital, Adam's Block, Memphis; discharged from Foundry Hospital at Memphis was Jos. Myers, 120th.

______________________________________________________________________

Part of a fold out map found at page 179 in History of the Civil war in America by The Comte de Paris, Volume III, 1888 showing Millikens Bend and Youngs Point in Louisiana.
 

Colonel Spiegle's address to the 120th Regiment delivered on Dress Parade, Monday, 22 Feb 1863 I have to-day been informed that some soldiers of this Regiment, have, at different times, expressed sentiments disloyal and unbecoming a soldier of the Union Army, when about the Sutler* shop of the 96th Indiana; saying that if this Regiment should ever have to go into another engagement, not half of the men would fire a gun for this d---d abolition war, etc.  When I heard it I thought it almost impossible, that any soldier of the gallant 120th Regiment, which so nobly stood up at the battles of Vicksburg and Post Arkansas, to defend the good old flag, where every heart swelled with pride; when they saw the stars and stripes first planted by the 120th, wave so proudly, succeeding the traitorous rag on the stubborn ramparts of Post Arkansas, could make use of language disgraceful to the Regiment, disloyal to the country, and productive of evil only to the good cause, for which we are enlisted.  If there is one man in the Regiment who would refuse to shoot at a rebel, in an engagement, let him step three paces to the front in order that he can be marked as a coward and receive the reward of a traitor.  Such  talk will only strengthen the rebels, disgrace the Regiment, and further defer that, for which we are all longing, an honorable Peace.  If any of us differ with the acts and doings of parties at home, and policy of the administration, let us hope that those at home, who have nothing to do, will see to that.  Whatever is wrong will in time, by the American people, be righted. Ours is the proud position of maintaining the world-wide and noble reputation of the American Volunteer Soldier, who stands classed with the most intelligent and brave in the known world -- our's [sic] is the patriotic position of restoring the grand and sublime American Union -- tranquility, peace and happiness to our bleeding country -- knowing and appreciating our position none but the most loyal and high-minded thoughts and expressions can emanate from our hearts and lips.--Men! for God's, your country's, your friends [sic] at home, your own and my sake, do not, either by thoughts, expressions, or willful actions, disgrace yourselves.  Stand by the Government right or wrong.  You may now do an unsoldier-like act, which, by excited men at home may be approved, but rest assured it will ere long come sweeping like an avalanche, your own good name and leave you in shame and disgust over your own acts of violating your soldier's oath.  While you are in the service, be soldiers' [sic] in every sense of the word, so that when in private life, you can ever be respected and honorable citizens. From the Wooster Republican  7 May 1863 * A Sutler is a person who follows an army and sells to the troops provisions, liquors, etc.

"From Arkansas Post the regiment returned to Young's Point[see map], and went into camp.  Here it was decimated by disease, measles, typhus and malarial fever working sad havoc in its ranks.  At one time over half the regiment was reported on sick list.  The officers became discouraged and resigned in large numbers, which contributed to the despondency of the men."

On March 6, 1863 the 120th wrote a Resolution which was sent to the Wooster Republican to "defend" themselves against some critics.  They said in part:
"That while we lament over the deaths of our brave comrades, and deeply sympathize with the sick, we feel assured that all has been done by our Regimental and medical officers that could be, under the circumstances, for their relief; our Regiment never having seen service, having been organized a little over three months when they were called upon to endure the exposures, fatigue and hardships of older Regiments, both at Chickasaw Bluffs and Arkansas Post, and with pride and satisfaction, we can point to what is now history, of the acts and deeds of the 120th O.V.I."

"And now we say to the people of Ashland, Richland, Wayne and Holmes counties, from whence our Regiment has been formed that, although afflicted by disease and death, ours is in no worse fate than any other new Regiment; your sons and neighbors, through patriotism and zeal for their beloved land, volunteered to defend it from the assault of traitors.  There are many other Regiments who have been much longer in the service, that have not been exposed to the hardships and privations that our men have been.  After leaving Covington, KY., with the exception of one week, we were closely confined on board of the River Transports, without the means of cooking our rations regularly or otherwise attending to our own sanitary condition, five weeks, were landed on the Yazoo.
exposed to the rain for two nights and a day, compelled to drink the Bayou water, and owing to the position we occupied, unable to build fires to warm and dry ourselves or cook our rations; after the evacuation were again placed on transports, landed at Arkansas Post, bivouacked for the night on the field, and after the taking of the Post, exposed to an incumbent snow storm, embarked again, and after several days confinement, landed on these low swamp lands, where pestilence and disease thickly fill the humid air; after all this, is it to be wondered at that our men sickened and died?  and is it generous then to attribute this disease and death to the incompetency of the officers, while they too have sickened and died [see note], and to day our Regiment is as cheerful and ready to do duty as any other in this army."

Note of interest on Company H: Captain Patrick Phelan of Company H had died on 15 Feb 1863 at Young's Point LA.  James B. Taylor was promoted to First Lieutenant 18 Feb 1863 and to Captain on 23 March 1863.
 
 

From the newspaper, Wooster Republican, Thursday 16 April 1863, page 2, a letter signed J.B.T.,  which probably was our James B. Taylor:

From the 120th Ohio:
Camp near Milliken's Bend, La.[see map],
March 30th, 1863

E. Foreman----Dear Sir:
It has been some time since I have written to you, partly because of illness and partly of negligence.-- Shortly after the battle of Arkansas Post I was attacked with fever and lay in a Field Hospital till the first of this month.  On my return to the Regiment, I found that much sickness prevailed.  Is this surprising when we reflect that a new Regiment unaccustomed to exposure, had been aboard transports with their usual amount of filth and vermin most of the time since our departure from Covington?  And afterward we were not encamped on the beautiful highlands of Ohio, subjected to her genial climate, but upon a spot which is now covered with water----a swamp----in a climate to which we were wholly unused.
     March 11th McClernand's Corps was ordered to this point.  Here we have a beautiful camping ground, and the move has greatly improved the health of the Regiment.  True, while we were at Young's Point many of our number died.  Of these a large proportion was of those who had contracted disease during the six days fight on the Yazoo.
     The health of our Regiment at this time will compare very favorably with that of other Regiments of the Corps.  Yesterday we were on Brigade drill under command of our Division General, Austerhaus.  Our battalion was the largest on the field.
     But few deaths have occured[sic] since we moved to this camp, and there are but few dangerous cases under treatment.  The "well" are in good spirits.  Our "for duty" list is fast increasing, and if called into battle we could muster over an average Regiment, which, under the command of the gallant Col. Spigel, will send back a report to the good people of Old Wayne, which will be received by its friends as tangible evidence of its loyalty, discipline, and fighting character.
     The papers with which you have favored me were promptly and thankfully received.  In one of them, I find the "Address of Ohio Soldiers to the people of the State."  Of course "them's my sentiments," and I believe would be endorsed by a large majority of the Army of the Mississippi.  The rebellion must be crushed and we have the power to do it.  I am glad Congress passed the Conscript Bill.
     Since we started on this expedition our Company [Company H] has lost four by desertion, and by death its Captain and eleven men, eight of whom were from Wayne County, viz:  Orderly A. C. Bushong and Ezra Stutsman, of Green township; Jacob Veiny, Ferdinand Veiny and Jos. R. Yoder of Milton; Ira Burnet, Eli C. Bisel and Joel Bair, of East Union.
     I cannot see that there are any special indications of a speedy move on Vicksburg, yet we subalterns know but little about how near red tape has brought us to the fortifications of the enemy.  I believe that when we do move Vicksburg will be ours; if so, it will be glory enough for one expedition.  I have nothing more of interest to communicate, but remain,
Respectfully yours,
J.B.T
__________________________________________________________________________

"In April, the 120th took part in Grant's campaign against Vicksburg, engaging in the battles of Champion Hill, Thompson's Hill, the Black River, and in the charge on Vicksburg, on the 22d of May.....After the fall of Vicksburg the regiment joined Sherman's expedition against Jackson...."

Thompson's Hill, Miss. (Port Gibson)  1 May 1863

A newspaper article in the Wooster Republican on 28 May 1863 states that the action [at Port Gibson] is represented as resulting in a brilliant victory for the Union Troops.  A casualty list was brought back by a H. J. Kauffman who had been to the Mississippi Army "in charge of hospital stores and clothing for the 16th and 120th Regiments at Port Gibson."  On this casualty list in Company H was Isaac Mylar, wounded slightly in the foot; Bigelow Buzzard, wounded seriously in the side[1 May 1863]; and Eli Kelly, severely wounded in the left hand [1 May 1863].  In Company G, Frank Kissinger had his suspenders shot in two but was not wounded.

Wooster Weekly Republican [Published 2 July 1863]
[More about Thompson's Hill written by Colonel Speigle to Brig. Gen. Girrard, Com.1st Brig. 1st Div., 13th A.C.-- Army of the Tennessee, written May 2, 1863]
  I have the honor to transmit herewith the following report of the part taken by the 120th O.V.I., in the action of Thompson's Hill on the 1st inst. [May 1, 1863], and with a list of the casualties.[List not included in this newspaper report.] 
  About 5 o'clock A.M. we were ordered to advance and take a position on the right of Lampheres Battery, which we accordingly did, under a severe fire of the enemy's shell, in which position we remained about half an hour when we advanced to the edge of a ravine, and from there we were ordered to advance and form in line of battle in connection with the 18th Ill. vol.  We advanced briskly to a position behind a fence fronting the enemy, in support of the 49th Ind., who were deployed as skirmishers on the edge of the woods.  Soon after, Colonel Kegwin, of the 49th Ind, informed me that he was ordered to the right on a line with his position, and at the same time I received orders to cover his old position with skirmishers.  I then advanced companies A, F, and K, as skirmishers, and D, I, and B, in support.  At 7 o'clock A.M. I was ordered to recall all but one of my companies.  I moved as ordered, somewhat to the right of the line in advance, to relieve the 42d Ohio, close to the ravine running parallel with the enemy's strongest position.  I then engaged the enemy for about twenty minutes without being able to do them much harm, they being completely under cover on the opposite bank of the ravine.
  I then advanced as skirmishers some of the best shots from all the companies down into the same [ravine], with orders to advance closely, supporting them with the remainder of the Regiment and keeping up a continual fire toward the top of the opposite bank.  When nearly down the ravine I discovered the exact position of the enemy's advance towards my left on the opposite bank.  I then charged upon them with the Regiment and quickly drove them from the bank to a knoll beyond where they rallied and made a stand which only increased the determination of my brave boys.  Pushing up the bank we drove them from behind the knoll, taking eight prisoners.  When I had obtained possession of the knoll, I did not deem it prudent to follow them any further, being already at least three hundred yards in advance of any of our troops, and in danger of meeting the enemy's entire right wing massed behind a number of old buildings directly in front of me.  I deployed my Regiment on the knoll in order to punish the retiring force and hold the position against a more formidable attack---- As soon as the retiring enemy had joined the main force, the attack was renewed with redoubled fierceness, but meeting with such continual and well directed vollies from us, they fell under cover of the buildings again.  I then continued fighting the enemy concealed behind the logs, fences, and houses, and some perched themselves in tree tops until my ammunition was beginning to give out and a great many of the guns became unfit for use, when I was relieved by Col. Bennet, of the 69th Indiana, and ordered to retire.---- I  then fell back to the 2d ravine in the rear of me replenishing the empty cartridge boxes with ammunition from the boxes of the killed and wounded comrades.  I remained in that position until late in the afternoon.  I saw the charge made on the left, when I quickly formed my Regiment, marching in toward the charging column in order to support it if necessary.  When, however, the enemy fled in confusion, and a glorious victory won, the 120th had nothing more to do but exult and cheer and be merry, which I assure you was done.  
  I cannot close this report without saying that the men of the 120th have not only justified their former reputation, but they have even excelled it.  They displayed gallantry and bravery that will never be forgotten by their country.  To the line officers, all of whom stood bravely up to the work, I am indebted much for their aid and courage in carrying out  every order given.
  Lieut. Col. Beekman has shown himself worthy of the position he now holds.  While promptly assisting in manoeuvering the Regiment, his encouraging and cheering words were always heard along the line.  
  Major Slocum, while with me in the morning, displayed that coolness and courage for which he is well known in the army, and while detailed to take charge of the skirmishers on the left of the Division did his full duty, to the entire satisfaction of the General commanding the Division.  
  Adjutant Sherman, although young in years, has truly shown himself a veteran of the field.  He possesses all the elements necessary to qualify him for the position he holds.  Brave and cool he becomes courageous and dashing when the occasion requires it.  Both officers and men have my sincere thanks for their cheerful co-operation on the field of Thompson's Hill.  
  I have the honor, General, to be your obedient servant,
Marcus M. Speigle
Col. Com. 120th Reg. O.V.I.

Gathered from the Roster and other sources, Killed and Wounded at Thompson's Hill:
Company B: John O. Byers, wounded left thigh
                   Henry H. Mowers, wounded left arm and right hand
Company C:  William Ciphers, wounded, severly bruised
                    John Eberhart, wounded, left breast
                    Wilson McCreary, wounded, face
Company D:  James W. Johnson, wounded, left shoulder
                    Henry S. Shaner, wounded, right breast
Company E:  Elijah Boor, wounded, left shoulder
                    William Shoup, Killed
                    Isaac Wagnor, Killed
Company F:  John Brindle, Killed
Company G:  Samuel Hoover, wounded
Company H:  Bigelow Buzzard, wounded
                    David Hoff, wounded
                    Eli Kelley, wounded, left hand
                    Isaac Mylar, wounded slightly in the foot
Field and Staff:  Christopher C. Stouffer, knocked senseless by canon fire, recovered within two hours
In Company A, Peter Sparr had two horses killed.
In Company G, Frank Kissinger had his suspenders shot in two but was not wounded.  

[Note: Bigelow Buzzard and Eli Kelley were  subsequently discharged because of their wounds at Thompson's Hill.  Isaac Mylar finished out the war.]  
A newspaper article in the Wooster Republican on 28 May 1863 states that the action [at Port Gibson] is represented as resulting in a brilliant victory for the Union Troops.  A casualty list was brought back by a H. J. Kauffman who had been to the Mississippi Army "in charge of hospital stores and clothing for the 16th and 120th Regiments at Port Gibson."  On this casualty list in Company H was Isaac Mylar, wounded slightly in the foot; Bigelow Buzzard, wounded seriously in the side[1 May 1863]; and Eli Kelly, severely wounded in the left hand [1 May 1863]. 

Matthews,James D,  discharged 2 May 1863 for disability

Not mentioned in the Roster, but included in Hardesty's Richland page 482:  "While prisoner at Raymond Mississippi, May 15, 1863, he [Robert W. Bell] was sick and in the hospital.  The enemy compelled all the sick and wounded who were able to walk to march with them and left twenty who were too feeble to go, among them Mr. Bell, alone without food.  For two days they had nothing.  On the third day the citizens brought them something but they ate little, as they feared poison.  In a few days Mr. Bell and his comrades rejoined the regiment at Black River, and were sent to Camp Chase, Columbus, Ohio, and at the end of three months Mr. Bell rejoined his regiment, stationed at New Iberia, Louisiana."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Published 28 May 1863 in the Wooster Republican, Wayne county OH

From the 120th Ohio
Van Buren, Hospital, Milliken's Bend, La., May 14, 1863
 [Letter to the editor, author unknown]
It may be interesting to some who have not been permitted to take an inside view of a general Hospital, to hear something relative to its conduct.  Having been an inmate of such a hospital for over five weeks we have been able to learn many things that could not be learned otherwise.  The hospital is situated immediately on the bank of the river, and contains about fifteen hundred sick and convalescent soldiers.  A Mr. Marshal owns the plantation and resides at Natchez-----Our tents are situated beneath o'er shadowing branches of the China trees, which are set out in a perfect alignment; the air is made melodious by the singing of birds, and the odoriferous effluvia exhaled from the flowers and shrubs, wafts in a delightful cloud of fragrance on the breeze.  The exquisite natural and artificial beauty of the place reminds us of pictures of Paradise.  The strictest discipline and order are enforced, and the Surgeon in charge, Dr. Whiting, merits the praise of keeping his camp as clean, neat and tidy, as any housewife ever kept her door-yard.  After viewing these beautiful scenes that almost enrapture the mind, we come to notice that which seems more directly connected with the interests of the soldier -- we refer to the table -- and a view of these things brings us down from our transports of pleasure in contemplating other beauties.  Long lines of tables are spread, at the ringing of the first bell the men are paraded, at the second, marched in order to their places at the tables.  The breakfast consists of a piece of soft bread, a piece of smoked ham and a cup of muddy coffee, and if the unsatisfied appetite of the soldier prompts him to a complaint, he receives a  blessing from the waiter, and a threat of being reported to headquarters.  This subsides the complaint for a ride astride the fence, banishment to some secluded spot for a day, fed on hard bread and water, or some other corporal punishment looms up frightly for him, and he swallows his indignation and goes quietly to his tent.  For noon a dish of barley soup is served up.  A light supper, --bread, stewed apples and coffee.  Somtimes we have an extra dish, perhaps codfish, potatoes or eggs, which, to make them military -- if we may judge from their flavor -- have been a very long time in reaching the table.
  For the sicker portion, who cannot go to their meals, light diet is prescribed, --ligher not in quality, but in quantity.  The people of the North are unceasing in their patriotic labors, boxing and shipping sanitary stores to the army for benefit of the sick soldiers, but it is a lamentable fact that but very little of these stores ever come to be used by the sick, there is such a host of clerks, rascally ward masters, nurses, cooks and waiters, that but little passes safely through their hands. --  The Doctors are faithful in the discharge of their duties, rendering all the aid to the sick that is in medical skill, but proper care and diet conduce more to health than drugs and medicine.  But little occours [sic] here to break the dull monotony of camp life.  A few days since a party of rebels who were known to be lurking in the woods on the opposite side of the river, with the design as it was supposed, of firing upon our transports, made their appearance on the bank, but a few well directed shell from a couple of 30-pound guns, which the precaution had been taken to plant for our protection, soon dispersed them. -- Scarcely a day passes but the boom of cannon at Vicksburg and viciity can be heard, telling us that the work of death steadily goes on.
  Our regiment (the 120th,) was engaged in the battle of Grand Gulf, after the capture the army moved up the Black River some distance.  The boys are represented in good health and fine spirits.
   A severe battle is expected at the Railroad bridge across the black River.  We receive the Cincinnati, Chicago, St. Louis and Memphis papers almost daily, and keep informed of the war news, the advance of Hooker, the repulse of the rebels in Missoui are known.  The troops are becoming enthusiastic, that enthusiasm which has been so proverbial in the great army of the Union, is again manifested here.  Hope again brightens the future, the ominous clouds that hung so darksomely around us are lifting and light is breaking in, and the prospect of peace and a restored Union is more cheering.  We hope soon to see the tri-colord banner waving triumphantly over every foot of American soil, and men who now learn war return to the peaceful vocations of life.  
  I am yours, &c., CONVALESCENT.
P.S. The days are very warm, but the nights are remarkably cool.  Peaches are half grown, figs will soon be ripe.  No cotton or corn has been planted in this vicinity this Spring.  The river is falling rapidly.
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Seige of Vicksburg, Miss.  18 May to 4 July 1863
Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  In this book from the biography of Mathias Harter, Company B: "....[Harter] assisted in digging the canal in front of Vicksburg, to allow our gunboats to pass below the city and thus escape the obstructions in the river and also avoid the fire from the rebel batteries.  He was then employed in patrol duty up and down the Mississippi river, for several weeks.  At the siege of Vicksburg the 120th were under fire five days and nights in succession."

Letter from Marcus Speigle at Headquarters 120th OVI in the field at Black River Bridge, Mississippi, 27 May 1863, written to Col. James Kegwin, Commanding 1st Brigade 9th Div. 13th Army Corps
  I have the honor to submit here with the following report of the part taken by the 120th Reg't O.V.I., in the engagements on the 19th, 20th, 21st, 22d and 23d inst.[May 1863].  On Monday morning, 18th of May, I received orders from Maj. Gen. Grant, Commanding Dep't, to move forward with my command from Raymond with all possible dispatch, and join my Division in the field near Vicksburg.  I accordingly started from Raymond at daylight on the morning of the 18th, having in charge about 200 prisoners of war, which I was ordered to turn over at Edwards' Station.  On my arrival at Edwards' Station I turned over the prisoners and pushed on rapidly until about 11 P.M., when I rested my command until 3 A.M. roused my men and pushed forward, joined the Division just on the eve of engaging the enemy on the fortifications in the rear of Vicksburg at about 9 A.M., 19th inst.  On my arrival I reported to Brig. Gen. Lee, then commanding the 1st Brigade, and was by him assigned to take up position in line on the left of the 118th Illinois and right of 7th Ky.  About 10 o'clock I received orders to advance, when after moving forward about a half mile crossing a series of very difficult ravines or gullies, we received the fire of the enemy.  Seeing our exposed condition on the crest of a ridge, Gen. Lee ordered me to deploy my regiment in a ravine a short distance in front, the regiments on my right and left receiving the same orders.  In this position we remained until ordered to charge on the enemy's works.  Early in the afternoon when this order was received, although my men were nearly worn out by the forced march of a day and night before from Raymond, they nevertheless formed quickly and seemingly their extreme weariness was forgotten, and when the command charge was given they moved off as though all of them were well rested, charging over hills and ravines for over one mile, all this time exposed to the fire of the enemy's well placed batteries, under scorching rays of the hot sun, all striving to excel each other, truly showed the bravery and gallantry of the boys.---- On arriving on the hill opposite those of the fortifications we were ordered to halt and rest.  Just then Gen. Lee was severely wounded, and by evening we were by you ordered to fall back to the ravine from which we started on the charge.  About 10 o'clock A.M. on the 20th I received orders to move forward and occupy a ravine running in front of the enemy's works.  I threw out two companies as skirmishers to cover my front, keeping up a brisk fire continually, drawing the attention of the enemy while our folks were planting a battery on the hill to my right and rear, after we retired as per your orders to the old position leaving one company as pickets.  At the break of day the 21st [May], again moved forward to the position held the 20th, taking three companies to cover the left flank and one the front.  Skirmishing was unceasing during the whole day, changing the companies when out of ammunition and their guns too hot to handle, at night was ordered to withdraw to position occupied night before.  The 22d at day break assumed position as day before.  At 9 o'clock A.M. I was ordered to form my regiment in double column closed in mass, and support the 7th Ky., and 118th Ill., in a charge; at the same time being informed that a simultaneous charge by the whole army along the whole line would be made.  About 10 o'clock the order to advance was given and the column, 7th Kentucky in advance, moved on.  When we arrived at the crest of the hill above the ravine a terrible and withering fire from the enemy met us, from which the advance suffered greatly.  Finding that crossing the hill under such a fire would be destructive, while even after crossing the hill an impassable ravine and abattis had to be confronted, and our forces would be at the mercy of the enemy, the column was halted and the charge along abandoned.  I here received orders to advance three companies of my command through a ravine to the left and occupy a position close by one of the enemy's forts, which I did, and the boys by vigorous shooting kept the enemy from using his cannon.  I remained all night in the ravine.  The 23d [May] I was ordered to fall back to our first position, being relieved by Gen. Hovey's forces, leaving two companies as skirmishers, who were relieved by Gen. Hovey on the eve of the same day.  The same evening I received orders to prepare for a march by daylight to Black River Bridge.  
  I cannot close this report, Colonel, without expressing my gratification and just pride at the gallantry and the good behavior shown by the officers and men during the five days of peril, hardships and privations.
  They have my heartfelt thanks and richly deserve the thanks of their country for the cheerful and prompt manner with which they performed every duty assigned them, while all have done so well it is useless to particularize any one.
   Respectfully, Your obedient servant, M. M. Spiegel, Col. 120th O.V.I.     

Myers, Tobias B  was captured 28 May 1863 in action at Raymond, Miss. and was exchanged in Oct 1863.

Jackson, Miss.  9-16 July 1863
Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  In this book from the biography of Mathias Harter, Company B: "After the surrender they marched to Jackson, Mississippi, and at the end of a two days battle, forced the enemy to evacuate the town.  They then returned to Black river, and during the winter of 1863-4, were encamped at Plaquemine, Louisiana."
Robinson, James A.,   Died 8 July 1863 on hospital steamer
Beveridge, John  Wounded 12 July 1863 Jackson Miss.
Long, Davidson,  Wounded at Jackson Miss.
Crowner, Thomas  Died 22 July 1863 on the road from Jackson Miss. to Vicksburg, Miss.
Troyer, Elias   Died 22 July 1863 on the road from Jackson Miss. to Vicksburg, Miss.
Witwer, Henry   Discharged 24 July 1863 for disability......His tombstone has a death date of 25 July 1863.  Apparently he never made it back home, but perhaps his body was returned home.
Stake, George W.,   Discharged 28 July 1863 for disability  

The regiment returned to Vicksburg on the 20th of July, 1863, and on the 8th of August embarked for New Orleans to join Banks' expedition in Western Louisiana.

Orr, William M   Discharged 5 Aug 1863 for disability
Reed, Thomas M.,   Discharged 8 Aug 1863 for disability
Miller, Charles E.,  Died 7 Sept 1863 at Carrollton, LA
Kindig, Daniel, Died 21 Sept 1863 at New Orleans, LA.

Keller, John, Discharged 1 Feb 1864 at Cleveland OH because of disability.
Hoover, Samuel E., Discharged 24 Feb 1864 because of disability.

It [ the regiment] participated in the campaign in the valley of the Teche [area of Morgan City: see site at: http://rurallife.lsu.edu/lhin/visitor/html/history.htm], and was then sent to Plaquemine [near Baton Rouge], a small town on the Mississippi river, where it remained until March, 1864, being then ordered to Baton Rouge.

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  In this book from the biography of Captain Christopher Au:  [after the expedition against Jackson, Miss.] About the 1st of January, 1864, Captain Au was detached with his company [Co. I] and Company A, and sent to New River Landing, Louisiana, to enforce the building of a levee.  He remained here four months with both companies under his command.  May 1, 1864, the regiment was ordered to join General Banks at Alexandria, Louisiana.  They embarked at Baton Rouge, on the steamer City Bell, and , on May 3d as the boat was approaching Snaggy Point, the enemy, five thousand strong, appeared behind the levee and sent a volley into the boat."

3 May 1864
Disaster at Snaggy Point

On the 1st of May [1864], the 120th was ordered to join Banks, then operating in the direction of Shreveport.  The regiment embarked on the transport City Belle, for Alexandria, Louisiana, and when passing up Red River it was ambuscaded at Snaggy Point, by 5,000 of the Confederates concealed behind the levee.  A murderous artillery and infantry fire was opened on the crowded boat, and the deck was soon slippery with blood.  After a short but ineffectual struggle against overwhelming odds, the 120th was compelled to display the white flag.  During the conflict the City Belle drifted to the opposite side of the river, where quite a number of the 120th escaped.  Colonel Spiegel, Surgeon Stanton, Assistant-Surgeon Gill, Captains J.R. Rummel, Miller, Fraunfelder and Jones, Lieutenants Applegate, Baer and Rouch, and two hundred men, fell into the hands of the Confederates, besides the bodies of the killed.  Colonel Spiegel was mortally wounded, and died next day.  He was one of the noblest of men, and "bravest of the brave."  The prisoners were at once marched off to Camp Ford, near Tyler, Texas, where they were confined until the close of the war."

From Ohio in the War Volume II by Whitelaw Reid published in 1895
"At four P.M., while the transport bearing the One Hundred and Twentieth was turning a bend on Red River, a short distance above Snaggy Point, a body of the enemy, at least five thousand in number, suddenly rose from a concealed position behind the levee, on the south bank of the river, and poured a murderous volley into the boat.  The enemy's batteries also opened on the ill-fated boat, and it was almost instantly rendered unmanageable by a shell.  Colonel Speigel, in command, determined to hold the boat until the arrival of the gunboat Monarch, which had convoyed the City Belle from the mouth of Red River to Snaggy Point.  But the odds were too great, and, after a gallant resistance for half an hour, the white flag was displayed.  Two or three companies on the lower deck, not seeing the emblem of surrender, kept on firing, which so incensed the enemy that he also renewed the fire from both artillery and infantry.  The boat, now totally unmanageable, floated to the opposite shore from the enemy, and a large portion of the regiment jumped ashore and escaped over the levee.  Others remained on the boat, prevented from ascending the bank by the rapid firing of the enemy, covering the only spot at which the bank could be sealed.  To prevent further effusion of blood, the white flag was again displayed and a formal surrender effected."

"After a terrible march, enduring the intense heat, the pangs of hunger, and heartless treatment, the wretched captives reached Camp Ford on the 21st of May.  In this miserable prison, they remained over a year, and until the final cessation of hostilities in 1865."

History of the Civil war in America by The Comte de Paris, Volume IV, 1888, page 563
"On the 30th of April [the Confederate troops] had taken position on the right bank of Red River a little above Fort de Russy and within reach of Marksville.......On the next day the steamboat City Belle, with three hundred Ohio soldiers who were on their way to join Banks, arrived in front of the point where [Confederate troops were]  posted with the battery.  No one on board had a suspicion of the enemy's presence, who had not yet been observed.  Accordingly, the boat, which was without either escort or armament, was disabled at the very first fire, and obliged to surrender with all on board."

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans. Account given in this book in the bio of Erastus B. Wilson of Company B:  "The enemy fired into their transport, completely demolishing the boiler and the pilot house, which so disabled the boat that she drifted to the bank of the river, and several hundred men were taken by the rebels.  Mr. Wilson climbed the steep bank of the river under fire from the artillery and infantry, and, with one hundred and fifty others, succeeded in making his escape to the woods.  Here they hired a negro to pilot them across the river above the enemy, and they reached Alexandria, Louisiana, safely..  The distance they had traveled was short, but it had taken them from noon until four o'clock the following afternoon to reach their lines..........."

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  Account given in this book in the bio of Alexander J. Swanger  of Company K:  "He was on the gunboat 'Star City Belle,' on its way up the Red river to carry re-enforcements to General Banks, when a masked battery and about nine thousand rebel soldiers opened fire upon them.  The third shot struck the boiler, causing it to explode.  The boat now drifted to the opposite side of the river.  Here the brave boys made a breastwork of knapsacks and tried in vain to protect themselves, but the heavy artillery made short work of such frail defences, and they were compelled to raise the flag of surrender..........Mr. Swanger, seeing that the boat had struck land, determined to make his escape if possible, jumped into the water and succeeded in gaining the top of the bank, which was twenty feet high and almost perpendicular.  The space between the boat and the bank was filled full of comrades less fortunate than himself, who had been shot while trying to climb the bank and had fallen back into the water.  The enemy now began throwing shell, grape and canister into the woods upon the bank.  In order to escape these he was obliged to lie flat upon the ground until captured by some horsemen who crossed the river.  As soon as captured, the Union soldiers were placed again upon the boat, which was drawn across the river by ropes.  When near the shore the boys were commanded to jump into the water and wade to the shore.  Mr. Swanger saw many of his comrades shot while in the water trying to get to the shore.  Fifteen colored men were killed at once; one of them grasped the muzzle of the revolver thrust in his face and tried to use it against his foe, but missed fire and fell dead before he could fire again.  The survivors were ordered immediately to begin their march, which was kept up continuously for twenty-two days, only stopping long enough to cook a little corn meal."

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  Account given in the book in the bio of Levi Ritter of Company I:  "After a march of twelve hours Mr. Ritter, like the rest of his unfortunate comrades, was given a biscuit, which was divided into two rations.  For a number of days he marched, watching always for a chance to escape, but was so heavily guarded that no opportunity came.  Any whose strength failed, so that they could not keep up, were immediately shot.  The rebels took the shoes from our men, so that many with bleeding feet were tramping over the iron ore.  At last they reached Tyler, Texas.  The prison was an open space of ten acres; the rations given the men were one pint of corn meal and one-half pound of beef - poor beef - when they had it, and sometimes not receiving any for three days; almost starved, often shot and wounded as a pastime to the guards, without any hope of escape, it seemed more than could be endured, and many died.  Some attempted escape, but with such barriers as a brutal soldiery, bloodhounds, and six hundred miles in an enemy's country without food, it is not strange that but one person succeeded in getting away."

Hardesty's Richland: (Robert W. Bell biography page 482) "Mr. Bell with a few others made their escape and marched all that night, and the next day reached Alexandria, where they were employed in building dams for the passing of our gunboats."

Hardesty's Richland: (Moses Andrews biography p. 482) "On the Red River expedition the enemy fired into their transport, the men made a barricade of their knapsacks and returned the fire, but the boat soon became disabled.  Lieutenant John Beer and a comrade swam ashore with a rope and succeeded in pulling the boat to the bank of the river where Mr. Andrews among many others, under a heavy fire from the rebels, made his escape into the woods and returned to Alexandria.  Colonel Speigle of his regiment was killed."

Hardesty's Wayne:  (bio of Francis Kidd of Company D, p. 510) Red River expedition:  "Those of the regiment who were not captured were aided in making their way to Alexandria by a negro, who showed them a 'back road'."

[Recommended reading:  There is an account of this in the book about Colonel Speigle entitled Your True Marcus, the Civil War Letters of a Jewish Colonel, edited by Frank L. Byrne and Jean Powers Soman, c. 1985, Kent State University Press.]

This Riverboat site gives interesting facts about the City Bell:
http://members.tripod.com/Write4801/riverboats/c-1-5.html
 
 

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.  From the account of Alexander J. Swanger of Company K:  "the prison....they were without shelter of any kind the first six months of their stay.  In the fall these prisoners were taken out under guard and allowed to cut the logs, from which they constructed rude pens, which were their only shelter during the winter.  Some few made their escape by lying in the bottom of the dust wagon and having the filth thrown on them; the wagon was driven by a negro man; this was soon discovered, and negro and wagon alike disappeared.  A tunnel was dug and had every prospect of success, when a notice was posted upon the gate that anyone who would disclose plans for escape among the prisoners should be released.  One was a traitor and revealed their plan.  Poor unhappy fellow, after wandering about a week or two, he came back one night to visit his friends.  The next morning there was a new-made grave within the stockades of the prison, the traitor was gone."

Hardesty's Richland [see above]:  From the account of William Higgins of Company I, relating the account of the march from the City Belle capture to the prison at Tyler, TX:  "They were nearly rescued on the following day by General Smith's cavalry corps."

From Hardesty's Wayne page 470:

Camp Ford, or Camp Tyler

This stockade was situated a few miles from Tyler, the countyseat of Tyler county, Texas, and was at first an enclosure two hundred feet across the end by five hundred on the side, with no shelter from the weather.  It was later enlarged so as to enclose about five acres, and five thousand prisoners were confined here at one time.

They were subjected to the tyranny of a vicious, cowardly lieutenant, McEcheu, whose favorite recreation was "tying up by the thumbs: those who incurred his special displeasure.  There were several commandants in the two years the stockade was used, 1863 and 1864, among them Colonels Allen, Stewart and Borden, but McEcheu, who was given full powers, was most like Winder and Wirz in discipline. [Winder and Wirz were the officers in charge of Andersonville.]  The dead-line was established fifteen feet from the stockade, and a furrow was run to mark it.  This was soon obliterated by the rain, after which the guards used their own discretion as to when a man had crossed the imaginary line, and prisoners were frequently shot when fifty feet from the stockade.  Officers and men of the rank and file were confined together here, and were subjected to the same treatment.  There was a supply of good water, the prisoners digging wells for themselves with old case-knives, half canteens, etc.  No shelter was provided, but the  prisoners were permitted to construct cabins, sheds and caves for themselves with logs, brush and dirt.  There was much suffering for food, and a favorite punishment was the stopping of rations for the whole camp on account of an offense given by one or a few.  Frequently the prisoners were without food two days, sometimes three. Rations were withheld for an alleged mistake in the count, and as they were as poor accountants here as the men occupying similar positions all through the South, this was often the case.  A pint of meal, with a small quantity of fresh beef, constituted a day's ration.  No conveniences were furnished for cooking, and the prisoners had to exercise their ingenuity in preparing their food, which was after all eaten in a half cooked state, and bowel diseases resulted.  Scurvy also raged, for want of vegetables, which were plentiful., and could be bought by those whose money had not all been stolen.  Dessicated [sic] vegetables from our government were sent to this prison, and distributed to the prisoners, relieving the scurvy a good deal.

Bucking and gagging, and standing on stumps in the hot sun, were common punishments.  Prisoners were frequently tied up by the thumbs with their toes just touching the ground, with sharp pegs driven in the ground, just touching their heels.  On becoming unconscious they would be taken down, and when recovered strung up again.  They were ironed and clubbed for slight offenses, the dogs were used to hunt them down if they attempted to escape, and many were torn by them, some so severely that death ensued.  If the dogs did not finish a recaptured man, tying up by the thumbs was his punishment.  One Captain Reid, of the third Missouri Cavalry, was stood on a barrel in the sun from July 3d for ten days.  His hat was taken away, and his only clothing was a shirt and pair of drawers.  He was refused water hours at a time.  Standing on stumps in the sun was a common punishment.

When colonel Allen was relieved of command he made the prisoners a short speech, in which he said he hoped every Yankee _____ _____ would stay in the stockade till he entered a Southern grave.  Three or four times, when it was feared our raiding forces would reach the stockade, the prisoners were paroled and marched away ostensibly for the purpose of exchange, and after a few days hard marching brought back to the same place.   The most of them marched barefoot, whether on hot sand or snow, and if any could not keep up from weakness they were murdered.  One old man, on a forced march back to prison in April, 1864, gave out, and was tied to the saddle of an officer and dragged until he died.  The weak and sick were commonly prodded with bayonets to increase their speed, and those who fell by the way were shot.  As the stockade became crowded, the sanitary condition grew worse.  The food was poorer, filth increased, vermin swarmed, and great numbers of the prisoners sickened and died. There was no hospital accommodation adequate to the need, and men would just drop anywhere and die where they fell; they had no medical attendance. Attempts to escape multiplied under such circumstances, and on July 1, 1864, the following order was issued:

Hereafter any Federal prisoner being detected in trying to make his escape from this prison, either in the act or after his escape, will be shot by the one capturing him.
By order of Lieutenant-Colonel J.P. Borden, commanding.
B.W. McEachau, Lieutenant and Acting Adjutant.

The condition of the prisoners then was such that this order did not deter many from trying to get away, and it is estimated that in 1864 out of one hundred and fifty who escaped from the stockade one hundred reached our lines.  When those whom death had not sent to the grave Colonel Allen wished for them, were finally paroled for exchange, not one man was fit for any place but a hospital. ________________________

 Apparently Captain Taylor and some of his men in Company H were among those who got away from the City Belle when it briefly touched the opposite shore.  Amazingly, none of them died at Snaggy Point.

From Ohio in the War Volume II by Whitelaw Reid published in 1895
"Those who were fortunate enough to escape formed themselves into a battalion of three companies, under Lieutenant-Colonel Slocum, coming together for that purpose about one mile from the scene of disaster.  Recognizing at once the folly of attempting to rescue their comrades from captivity, the battalion resolved to husband the remaining ammunition and used it to defend themselves against the guerrilla bands infesting the country between them and Alexandria."

"After this disaster the remnant of the regiment retreated with Banks' forces to Morganza, La., where it was consolidated with the 114th Ohio Infantry.  On consolidation the following officers of the 120th were honorably discharged:  Lieutenant-Colonel Slocum, Captains Au, Harvey, Taylor and Jones, and Lieutenants Van Ostern and Hughes.

This ended the career ot the 120th as a regimental organization.  It was a good regiment, but was overwhelmed with a series of disasters."

From Ohio in the War Volume II by Whitelaw Reid published in 1895
"It [the 120th OVUI] entered the service in 1862 with nine hundred and forty-nine officers and men. About one hundred and fifty recruits joined it in 1864, and when merged into the One Hundred and Fourteenth Ohio, on the 27th day of November, 1864, but four hundred and forty of the whole number remained.  Up to this time the aggregate number of killed in action, died of wounds and disease, and discharged because of disability, was six hundred.

But this was not the end of the war for many of the Company H soldiers.  There was still action to be seen for them with the 114th OVI. (Later some ended up in the 48th Ohio Veterans Volunteer Infantry.)

The transfer to the 114th OVI seems to have taken place the 27th of November 1864 according to Roster information.  After that date the 114th participated in the Siege of Mobile, Alabama 26 March to 9 April 1865 and the battle of Fort Blakeley, Alabama, 2-9 April 1865. [For more see Sources and Links.]

Hardesty's Richland = Hardesty's Historical and Geographical Encyclopedia. [Richland County OH version] 1885...original available at the Ohio Historical Society.  There is also a version of the soldier's biographies extracted from the above Hardesty's that has been published by the Richland County Genealogical  Society, 1998 called Richland County, Ohio Civil War Veterans.
In the biography of Alfred Wilson: "...At the last named place [Blakely] they came upon the enemy April 1st, and conducted a siege during nine days, a large part of which time their rations consisted of one cracker a day.  To such straits were they reduced that on one occasion Mr. Wilson gladly scraped up kernels of corn left by a horse and ate them."

Hardesty's Richland: (Moses Andrews biography page 482) [At Alexandria] "Here they remained performing picket duty for a week, and then went to Carrollton, on the Mississippi river above New Orleans, thence by rail to Lake Ponchartrain.  They took transports across the lake and marched via Pensacola, Florida, to Fort Blakely, Alabama.  They were obliged to build a corduroy road for the passage of their wagons on this march.  After a siege lasting a week they charged on Fort Blakely and captured the fort with many prisoners.  This was the last engagement of the war.  They were then transported to Galveston, Texas, and thence to Houston, Texas, where they were finally discharged October 14, 1865."

Hardesty's Richland (Robert W. Bell biography page 482) "They then went to Blakely and opened the siege on the fort, which they captured at the end of one week, with the loss of but one man."

Hardesty's Richland (George A. Flaharty biography page 483) "...marched across the country to Blakely Alabama.  They began a siege of the fort of that name, and at the end of seven days charged upon the fort and captured it with two thousand seven hundred prisoners.  This engagement occurred on the 25th of April, 1865, after Lee had surrendered, and may be said to be the last battle of the war.  They went from Fort Blakely up the Alabama river to Shelby, thence to Mobile, Alabama, and camped for six weeks.  On the 16th of June, 1865, they were transported to Galveston, Texas, and after four weeks moved to Houston, Texas, where they were mustered out of service October 14, 1865...."
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The official main exchange day for the prisoners at Camp Ford was 22 May 1865.

Dropdown menu for the 120th project
Click on the little triangle to open the menu,
then click on the page you want.
There is a search function for the site on the "Opening Cover Page".

History of the 120th Opening Cover Page Sources and Outside Links Field and Staff Officers, 120th OVI Company A, 120th OVI Company B, 120th OVI Company C, 120th OVI Company D, 120th OVI Company E, 120th OVI Company F, 120th OVI Company G, 120th OVI Company H, 120th OVI Company I, 120th OVI Company K, 120th OVI Holmes Co. Rebellion Guest Page      

Other links of interest:
NEW Arkansas Post National Memorial
http://www.nps.gov/arpo/index.htm

Link for the 120th OVI...........http://www.ohiocivilwar.com/cw120.html

Links for Camp Ford where prisoners of the City Belle capture were sent:
http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/view/CC/qcc15.html
http://www.txarch.org/best/camp_ford/camp_ford.htm

http://www.campford.org/    This link has a link for the sale of a lithograph of Camp Ford.

http://nautarch.tamu.edu/cea/ford.html
New...3 more links for Camp Ford:
http://www.greeceny.com/ol/herb.htm  This one has a great first hand account.
http://www.48ovvi.org/oh48cf.html Great descriptions.
http://www.civilwaralbum.com/misc/campford1.htm  Pictures of the current site and work being done.
 

Link for memorial to the 120th at Vicksburg
http://www.nps.gov/vick/oh/oh120inf.htm

Link for Richland County OH memorial to the 120th OVI
http://www.rootsweb.com/~ohrichla/Memorial.htm

Link for the 120th battle flag at the Ohio Historical Society site:
http://www.ohiohistory.org/etcetera/exhibits/fftc/relicroom/index.cfm?war=2&image=952

Recommended book:
Grandpa's Gone: The Adventures of Daniel Buchwalter in the Western Army 1862-1865 by Jerry Frey.

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