In view of the contemplated movement of this army from the line of the Rappahannock, in June last the following detail of signal officers was made by direction of the commanding general, viz: The right wing was supplied with 6, the wing with 4, and the center with 4, 8 officers being held as a reserve, to be used wherever the changes in the position of the army might render them of the greatest service. On June 14, the headquarters of this army moved from the vicinity of Famouth to Dumfries. The signal officers detailed for the three subdivisions of the army moved with the commander of each, while the party in reserve remained near the headquarters of the general commanding. Early on this day, by order, of the chief of staff, two signal officers reported to Brigadier General G. K. Warren, who was to assume command of the troops in charge of the Government

property about to be removed from Aquia Creek. A station of observation was established upon Fort Numbers 2, at that place, communicating with the gunboats Mahaska and Freeborn (lying off the creek, for the purpose of covering the withdrawal of stores and troops), upon which vessels signal parties had been previously stationed. Many messages were sent between these stations, and communication successfully kept up until the night of the 16th, when, the object of the flotilla having been attained, the officers rejoined the reserve. The party on station of observation at the Philip House, opposite Fredericksburg, remained on duty all this day, and reported to General W. S. Hancock the frequent changes made by the enemy on the other side of the river. On the 15th, two reconnaissances were made toward Ceterville by the officers attached to the First Corps, and reports sent to Major General J. F. Reynolds. On the 16th, a loop of signal telegraph wire was run out, connecting general headquarters at Fairfax Station with the Morse telegraph office at the depot. On the 17th, Captain B. F. Fisher, chief acting signal officer, went out upon a reconnaissance, and in the evening was captured by the enemy near Aldie. On the 18th, communications by signal telegraph was established, by the direction of the chief of staff, between general headquarters, near Fairfax Court-House, and the headquarters of Major General J. F. Reynolds, near Herndon Station. On the 19th, a signal telegraph line was extended from Herndon to Guilford Station, to which point General Reynolds had moved his headquarters. On the 20th, by direction of the chief of staff, two signal officers were assigned to each army corps. Communication was opened by flag signals between the First Corps headquarters, at Guilford Station, the Eleventh Corps, at Trappe Rock, and Twelth Corps, at Leesburg. The officers at the last-named point worked successfully also with the signal at Poolesville, Md., and through it with those at Sugar Mountain, Point of Rocks, and Maryland Heights. Thus, conjointly by flag signals and signal telegraph, a complete line was established from a reliable station of observation on Maryland Heights direct to the commanding general at Fairfax Court-house, giving to him at the same time a rapid means of communication with all the corps above named. A reconnaissance was made for General H. W. Slocum by the signal officers attached to his command. On the 21st and 22d, the stations occupied on the 19th and 20th

201 Chapter XXXIX. THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

worked successfully, and two reconnaissances as far as the Bull Run Mountains were made for General W. S. Hancock. On the 23d, the lines already in operation were made still more perfect by the establishment of a station near the headquarters of the Fifth and Cavalry Corps, at Aldie, which, communicating with the Eleventh Corps, furnished a safe means of transmitting messages between the commanding general and Major Generals A. Pleasonton, G. G. Meade, and other corps commanders. On the 24th, the lines previously established worked uninterruptedly. Intelligence of the crossing of the Potomac by the enemy was received this day from the following message:

MARYLAND HEIGHTS SIGNAL STATION,

June 24-10. 40 a. m.

General SLOCUM:

Large trains are crossing at Sharpsburg. Artillery and general trains are passing near Charlestown toward Shepherdstown.

FISHER,

Lieutenant, Signal Officer.

A message confirming the above was received, via Washington, late in the afternoon by the commanding general from General Tyler, at Maryland Heights. On the 25th, all signal communication was discontinued upon the removal of the army corps, and the signal telegraph line withdrawn. Two officers made separate reconnaissances for General W. S. Hancock, while two others performed the same duties for General J. F. Reynolds. On the 26th, general headquarters moved to Poolesville. By direction of the general commanding, three signal officers were ordered to report for duty to Major General A. Pleasonton, commanding Cavalry Corps. On the 27th, the headquarters of this army moved to Frederick, and an attempt was made to open communication between this point and the station on Sugar Loaf Mountain, which proved unsuccessful, on account of the unfavorable condition of the atmosphere. A station of observation was established at Middletown, and communication opened from that place to another point of observation at South Mountain Pass, and the results reported to Generals J. F. Reynolds and O. O. Howard. On the 28th and 29th, no signal operations were found necessary. On the 30th, general headquarters removed to Taneytown. A signal station was placed in the church steeple at that place, and a party sent to Emmitsburg for the purpose of opening a line between General J. F. Reynolds and headquarters. Communication was not opened this day on account of the haziness of the atmosphere. The signal officer with General John Buford, who occupied the town of Gettysburg, took position in the steeple of the college, and reported to General Buford the whereabouts and movements of the enemy. The officers attached to the First Corps, from a station of observation on the mountain back of Emmitsburg, made a telescopic reconnaissance toward Gettysburg, reporting the results to the general commanding that corps. On July 1, general headquarters remained near Taneytown. A station of observation was established, first on the college and subsequently on the court-house in Gettysburg, and reports of the position, numbers, and movements of the enemy sent by signals to General Howard, on Cemetery Hill, southeast of the town. In the

202 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

afternoon of this day two reconnaissances were made from Gettysburg, for the information of General W. S. Hancock, by the signal officer, temporarily attached to his staff. In the evening I was made acquainted by the general commanding with the line of defense to be occupied by the army in case the enemy made an irresistible attack upon our position, and directed by him to "examine the line thoroughly, and at once upon the commencement of the movement extend telegraphic communication from each of the following points, viz, general headquarters, near Frizellburg, Manchester, Union Mills, Middleburg, and the Taneytown Road. "

In order that these instructions might be promptly and successfully fulfilled, signal telegraph trains were sent to Frizellburg, and everything held in readiness to extend the wire at a moment's notice to the points desired by the commanding general. During the whole of this day, endeavors were made to open the signal line between general headquarters, Emmitsburg, and Round Top Mountain, but on account of the smokiness of the atmosphere, the desired result was not obtained until 11 p. m., when the first message was received. These lines were kept open during the subsequent battle

at Gettysburg and until July 6. In the event of the repulse and retirement of our army, they must have been eminently useful. Late in the evening of this day, I was directed by the chief of staff to start at daylight the next morning with the signal officers held in reserve, and rejoin the commanding general on the field at Gettysburg. On July 2, I reported at an early hour at the point selected for headquarters of the army for that day, but found the signal officers, who had been previously assigned to the different army corps, already on the field, and that through their exertion the general commanding had been placed in communication with nearly all the corps commanders. Before 11 a. m. every desirable point of observation was occupied by a signal officer, and communication opened from General Meade's headquarters to those of every corps commander. A station was established upon Round Top Mountain, on the left of our line, and from this point the greater part of the enemy's forces could be seen and their movements reported. From this position, at 3. 30 p. m., the signal officer discovered the enemy massing upon General Sickles' left, and reported the fact to General Sickles and to the general commanding. At 5. 30 p. m. the enemy opened a terrific fire, but our left was fully prepared for them, and the fight gradually extended to the whole front, so that every signal flag was kept almost constantly working. The station at Round Top was once, and that at General Meade's headquarters twice, broken up by the rapid advance of the enemy and the severity of the fire, but were immediately reoccupied when the positions became tenable. An important station of observation was also opened on the right of our center, near Cemetery Hill, from which the whole of the left of the rebel army was closely watched. A short time before the action opened, two officers were sent to reconnoiter the enemy's extreme left, and their reports were given to the commanding general. The stations established during the day were held at night. On July 3, the same positions were occupied by the signal officers as on the day previous, and the reports of movements, &c., unfail-

203 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

ingly sent to the commanding general. The station at General Meade's headquarters and that at General Howard's were rendered inoperative for a couple of hours by the furious attack of the rebels upon our center, but both were again actively employed as soon as the tremendous fire moderated sufficiently to permit of messages being read and transmitted with accuracy. The station on Round Top continued to report throughout the day discoveries in regard to the enemy's position. In the evening, the commanding general removed his headquarters to a strip of woods on the Taneytown road, and another station was established at this point, still maintaining communication with those previously opened. On July 4, at 5. 40 a. m., the signal officer from a station on the college in Gettysburg reported to the general commanding "that the enemy had evacuated the position they held yesterday, " and at 9. 30 a. m. reported the new line occupied by them, and that they were retreating toward Hagerstown. This station was kept open all day, and information in regard to the movements of the enemy sent in by orderly. General Meade's headquarters were removed to the Baltimore pike, and this was made the terminus of all signal lines. July 5. -All signal stations were this day discontinued, excepting those on Round Top Mountain, Cemetery Hill, court-house, and General Meade's headquarters. The officers previously assigned to army corps moved with them. A signal officer accompanied general G. K. Warren with the advance of the Sixth Corps, and communication was kept up by him with Round Top Mountain, thus enabling the party at the latter place to make known his discoveries in regard to the enemy to General Warren. On July 6, the lines between Round Top and Taneytown and Emmitsburg and Taneytown were discontinued. The two officers attached to the First Corps made a telescopic reconnaissance from the hill back of Emmitsburg, and sent the information obtained to Major General John Newton. The same officers subsequently occupied signal stations at Turner's Gap and Washington Monument, and reported the result of their observations of Hagerstown and vicinity to Generals Sedgwick and Newton. July 7, the headquarters of the army moved to Frederick. The signal officer who had been previously assigned to duty with the detached command under General Neill made a reconnaissance near Waynesborough, Pa., discovering the whereabouts and movements of the enemy. On July 8, in the afternoon, general headquarters moved to Middletown. A party of signal officers, under charge of Captain W. J. L. Nicodemus, arrived from Washington, for the purpose of working in conjunction with the signal corps of this army. Captain Nicodemus opened a line of communication between Frederick and South Mountain Pass. On July 9, headquarters of the army moved to Turner's Gap. A station was occupied near this place, communicating, through others at Middletown and Crampton's Pass, with Maryland Heights. This line, appearing of little importance on account of telegraphic facilities, was abandoned the same day, and its officers ordered to more active duty in the front. A station of observation was established on Washington Monument, near South Mountain Pass, from which Hagerstown and the whole valley could be seen. On July 10, the general commanding and his staff removed to a bivouac near Beaver Creek crossing, west of Boonsborough. In the

204 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

evening, communication was opened from general headquarters, through Washington Monument station, with headquarters of the Second and Twelfth Corps, near Bakersville: Third and Fifth Corps near Antietam Bridge, and the First and Sixth Corps near Beaver Creek crossing, on the Hagerstown pike. On this day the officer who accompanied General Neill on his expedition from a point selected by him on Franklin's Cliff, South Mountain Range, near Leitersburg, discovered the numbers and position of the enemy in and around Hagerstown, and sent the information to General Neill, and by orderly to General Meade. On July 11, by direction of the assistant adjutant-general, a signal telegraph line was run out between general headquarters and those of General John Sedgwick, on the Hagerstown pike, 5 miles distant. No communication was had by flag signals this day on account of the thick haze. Two reconnaissances were made toward Hagerstown for Generals Howard and Kilpatrick by the officers attached to their respective commands. On July 12,, a party was sent to open a line of signals between general headquarters and the brigade of General Neill, near Leitersburg, but the attempt failed by reason of the thickness of the atmosphere. The signal telegraph wire was this day extended to General Sedgwick's new headquarters at Funkstown, and another run out between general headquarters and those of General Slocum, 2, 5 miles distant and near Four Corners. Both lines worked with but slight interruptions until the night of the 14th, when they were withdrawn. Flag signals were worked between the headquarters of the Fifth Corps and others in the vicinity; also between General Howard's headquarters, at Funkstown, and a station of observation in Hagerstown. On July 13, all signal communication previously established was still kept up. Two officers were sent to make a telescopic reconnaissance from Elk Mountain. On July 14, the enemy were discovered to have crossed the river during the night before. At the close of this day all signal stations and lines were discontinued. On July 15, the headquarters of the army moved to Berlin. A signal station was opened at that place, communicating with a lookout station on Maryland Heights. This line remained in operation until the 18th. On July 16, the signal telegraph line was run from general headquarters to the Eleventh Corps headquarters, 1, 5 miles distant. Two officers were sent to make a telescopic reconnaissance from Loudoun Heights. Their reports were transmitted to the general commanding by orderly. On July 17, communication was opened by flag signals between headquarters at Berlin and an outpost station at Point of Rocks. An officer was sent to occupy a point of observation on Short Mountain. On July 18, general headquarters moved to Lovettsville, Va. A line of flag signals was worked between the Third and Fifth Corps. On July 19, headquarters of the army were moved to Wheatland, and communication established from thence to the lookout station on Short Mountain, and also between that mountain and the Fifth Corps headquarters. On July 20, the general headquarters moved to Union, and in the

205 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

evening signals by torch were worked between that place and a station of observation at Snicker's Gap, on the Blue Ridge. The whereabouts and movements of the enemy in the Shenandoah Valley were discovered and correctly reported to the commanding general by the officers on this station. A party was ordered to open station and make a reconnaissance at Ashby's Gap. They arrived at that point at 8 p. m., but for some undiscovered reason failed to open communication with general headquarters, during the night. On July 21, the officers at Ashby's Gap made known the numbers, movements, and position of the enemy in the Valley to General G. A. Custer, and through General W. H. French to the general commanding. At 8 p. m. two officers were ordered on a reconnaissance to Manassas Gap. The party at Snicker's Gap station reported frequently during the day to the general commanding their observations of the enemy. On July 22, communication was opened by flag signals, via Union, with Snicker's and Ashby's Gaps. General headquarters moved to Upperville. Attempts were made to open [communication] between this point and Ashby's Gap station, but failed from difficulty and delay experienced in finding a suitable point near headquarters. The officer at Manassas Gap transmitted by orderly to the general commanding the results of his observations. A line of signals was opened between Ashby's Gap and the Fifth Corps headquarters, near Rectortown. A point at Manassas Gap was selected for telescopic reconnaissances by the officer attached to General Marritt's command, from which he was driven shortly afterward by an attack of the enemy. On July 23, general headquarters moved to Piedmont at noon, and to Markham Station in the evening, and communication was opened from the latter place to Ashby's Gap, via Piedmont. At 6 p. m. the officer in charge of signals at the front of Manassas Gap established a line between General Meade's headquarters, at Linden Station, General French, with the advance, and General Sykes. This line was discontinued upon the withdrawal of our infantry the next morning. The officer with the Fifth Corps occupied a point overlooking Front Royal, and sent information of the enemy by flag signals to General Sykes. On July 24, at an early hour, I proceeded with four officers to the extreme advance of our army, but did not succeed in rendering any service before the enemy had evacuated Front Royal and its vicinity. In the afternoon, general headquarters moved to Salem. Signal communication was opened between General Newton's headquarters, at Warrenton, and General Howard's, at New Baltimore. This line was discontinued the next day upon the removal of the Eleventh Corps to Warrenton Junction. On July 25, headquarters of the army moved to Warrenton. A station of observation was established near Amissville for General Custer. On July 26, a signal telegraph line was run between general headquarters and General Sedgwick's headquarters, on the Waterloo road, 2, 5 miles distant. Another line was also extended from headquarters to the office of the Morse telegraph, in Warrenton. A station of observation was put up on Watery Mountain, communicating by flag signals to general headquarters. On July 29, the line to Watery Mountain was continued to General Custer's headquarters, at Amissville.

206 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

On July 30 and 31, the communication opened on the 29th remained intact. In summing up the operations of the signal corps of this army for the month and a half herein recorded, I find that sixty-seven signal stations of observation and communication were occupied, eight signal telegraph lines established, and seventeen extra reconnaissances made. I have stated as concisely as possible the amount and character of the work performed. When it failed in a signal point of view it has been noted; but of the real value of the information obtained by the corps and the importance of other services rendered, the commanding general and the corps commanders are best able to judge. A map is herewith inclosed, *indicating by the signal flags placed upon it the majority of the points at which stations were occupied; by dotted red lines where communication by flag signals was established, and by plain red lines where the signal telegraph was used. During the late movements of the army, 3 signal officers and 6 flagmen were captured by the enemy. The only reported injuries were those of 2 flagmen slightly wounded at the battle of Gettysburg. The capture of Captain B. F. Fisher, chief acting signal officer, has been previously mentioned. Captain C. S. Kendall and Lieutenant L. R. Fortescue, acting signal officers, were taken at Emmitsburg, where they had been on station, by Stuart's cavalry upon their retreat from Gettysburg, July 5. The following officers are entitled to mention for the active part taken by them in the late operations of the corps, and for the prompt and efficient manner in which they discharged every duty, both under the fire of the enemy and on the march: Captains James S. Hall and P. A. Taylor, serving with Second Army Corps; Captains P. Babcock, jr., and T. R. Clark, serving with Eleventh Army Corps; Captains Joseph Gloskoski and Richard Dinsmore, serving with Cavalry Corps; Captain F. E. Beardslee, in charge signal telegraph train; First Lieutenants J. C. Wiggins and N. H. Camp, serving with First Army Corps; First Lieutenant George J. Clarke, serving with Sixth Army Corps; First Lieutenant J. E. Holland, serving with Twelfth Army Corps. First Lieutenants William S. Stryker, adjutant, and A. B. Capron, acting assistant quartermaster and acting ordnance officer of Signal Corps, have discharged the duties of their respective positions throughout the campaign with a care and faithfulness which entitles them to commendation. I take pleasure in still further mentioning Captain D. E. Castle, of this corps, for distinguished gallantry and close attention to duty under most trying circumstances. On July 3, when the enemy made their furious attack upon our center at Gettysburg, Captain Castle occupied a signal station at General Meade's headquarters, near Cemetery Hill, and remained there on duty after all others had been driven away. His flagmen had also left with his signal equipments, under the impression that their officer had gone with the rest. Having occasion to send a couple of important messages to the general commanding, then at General Slocum's headquarters, Captain Castle quickly cut a pole, extemporized a signal flag from a bedsheet procured near by, and sent his dispatches through under a most galling fire. It was to Captain Castle's keensightedness and good judgment that I am indebted for the first information obtained of the enemy's position and movements in the Shenandoah Valley on July 21.

*To appear in Atlas.

207 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

His discoveries were made known to the commanding general at that time.

I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

L. B. NORTON,

Captain, and Chief Signal Officer, Army of the Potomac.

Brigadier General S. WILLIAMS,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Army of the Potomac.

No. 18. Report of Captain William J. L. Nicodemus, Signal Officer. GEORGETOWN, D. C., July 21, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to Special Orders, Numbers 106, dated Office of the Signal Officer, Washington, July 6, 1863, I reported to General French, at Frederick.

July 7. -On the 7th instant, with 12 officers and 27 enlisted men, General French ordered me to report to General Meade, who ordered me to the front, then the South Mountain Pass; ordered Lieutenants [Charles] Herzog and [Thomas P.] Rushby to Maryland Heights; Lieutenant Fisher to Crampton's Pass; Captain Daniels, with Captain Denicke and Lieutenants [William J.] Galbraith, Briggs, Denicke, Swain, and [S. Cary] Tuckerman, to the front, with the following instructions: You will open communication between Frederick City and South Mountain Pass, and establish observation stations to command the Boonsborough Valley.

July 8. -Left Frederick City on the 8th instant, accompanied by Captain McCreary. Lieutenant [William S.] Andrews being sick, was left at Frederick City, with orders to report to me as soon as able. Broke up stations along the route as fast as Morse's telegraph communication was established. Captain Daniels opened communication at 12 m. between battle-field and South Mountain station. Result of the day's fighting was driving the enemy to Beaver Creek Bridge, on Boonsborough and Hagerstown pike, 3, 5 miles north of Boonsborough. All movements of the enemy were observed from Washington Monument, on South Mountain, by Captain [Ernst A.] and Lieutenant [C. F. M.] Denicke, and promptly reported to the different headquarters concerned.

July 9. -General Buford on the 9th drove the enemy about 2 miles. A line signal stations commanded the enemy's front. A timely report of Captain McCreary prevented our left from being flanked this day. July 10. -Heavy skirmishing on the left; enemy driven to Funkstown; his dispositions accurately reported to the general commanding. July 11. -Captain McCreary reported: Enemy falling back, breaking up camps at Hagerstown, and moving toward Williamsport, trains going in direction of Shepherdstown. Condition of enemy's intrenchments at Funkstown reported by Captain Daniels.

July 12. -Enemy driven to intrenchments west and southwest of Hagerstown, and signal stations established in different parts of the town, 9. 30 a. m.

208 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

July 13. -Progress of the enemy's earthworks reported. No fighting. July 14. -Evacuation of the enemy reported at 4 a. m. by Captain Daniels. At 9. 30 a. m. reported to General Couch near Chambersburg: Enemy crossing at Williamsport; Army of the Potomac in close pursuit. This message reached General Couch five hours before General Meade's dispatch to that effect. At 10. 30 a. m. reported to General Averell at Chambersburg, who reported at once to General Kelley at Fairview. General Kelley at once threw his whole force in motion for Williamsport. On arriving at Williamsport, found the enemy had succeeded in crossing the river; drew in my party, and returned to the signal camp of instruction on the 17th instant. I forward reports of the officers of my command, except of Lieutenant Andrews, left sick at Frederick, and Captain and Lieutenant Denicke, ordered to report to General Kelley at Hancock. The reports of the last two will be forwarded as soon as practicable. I transmit herewith a few of the messages sent to the colonel commanding not mentioned in the reports of Captain Daniels and Lieutenant Swain. In conclusion, I would add that the weather was exceedingly unfavorable for signals; that the party, officers and men, worked cheerfully and hard, and that I am particularly indebted to Captains Daniels and McCreary and Lieutenant Swain for what was accomplished.

Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,

WM. J. L. NICODEMUS,

Captain, &c., Commanding.

Captain H. S. TAFFT,

Signal Officer.

Numbers 19. Report of Captain Nahum Daniels, Signal Officer.

GEORGETOWN, D. C.,

July 18, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report: Agreeably to orders received at Frederick, Md., July 7, at 6 p. m. I started with Captain Denicke, Lieutenants Denicke, Galbraith, Briggs, and Swain to open communication by signals from the advance of our army, then near Boonsborough, to Frederick. I left Lieutenant Galbraith at South Mountain Pass, with instructions to open an intermediate station at that point between Frederick and Washington Monument. On the morning of the 8th instant, I ordered Captain Denicke and Lieutenant Denicke to open a station on Washington Monument; also procured a detail of men to cut away the timber which obstructed the view near the monument. At 8 a. m. I ordered Lieutenant Swain to open a station at Boonsborough, then our extreme advance. Lieutenant Briggs also proceeded to open a station on the Blue [Elk] Ridge, about 4 miles from Boonsborough. At 10 a. m. our forces commenced skirmishing with the enemy. I immediately proceeded to the front, and opened communication with the Washington Monument, about 1 mile from Boonsborough. on the Hagerstown pike. I directed Lieutenant

209 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

Swain to take charge of the station at this point. At 11 a. m. I sent the following message to Captain Nicodemus: Our advance is engaged with Frederick. It being now quite clear, I ordered Captain Denicke to report by signal to me the movements of the enemy, which I reported to the commanding officer in front. Our forces were now engaged a distance of 3 miles in front. Lieutenant Swain remained at his post receiving messages, subject to a severe fire. I cannot too highly mention his bearing while under fire. At 1 p. m. the engagement became quite warm, Captain Denicke reporting constantly to me the every movement of the enemy, which was immediately reported to General Buford, while he by such reports was enabled to be fully prepared to meet every movement of the enemy, knowing in advance what their force was, and the kind of force. At 3 p. m., finding that communication was not open to Frederick, i ordered Lieutenant Denicke to assist Lieutenant Galbraith in opening through to that place. The following messages were sent to General Buford:

The enemy are advancing in front and on our right. A large cavalry force in front.

DANIELS, Captain.

General BUFORD: Infantry are advancing on our right.

DANIELS, Captain.

Enemy are advancing; skirmishing on our right.

DANIELS, Captain.

General BUFORD:

Enemy have just placed a battery on left of road, behind a large barn.

DANIELS, Captain.

SIGNAL STATION, NEAR BOONSBOROUGH.

Captain NICODEMUS:

Our forces are now hotly engaged with the enemy. Send forage to Captain Denicke, now here.

DANIELS, Captain.

General BUFORD:

Enemy's skirmishers are advancing on our right.

DANIELS, Captain.

July 9.

Captain NICODEMUS:

Enemy's cavalry pickets are 1 mile in advance.

DANIELS, Captain.

July 10, 1863.

General BUFORD:

Three regiments of infantry are on the right of road, 2 miles above, and two trains.

DANIELS, Captain.

14 R R-VOL XXVII, PT 1

210 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

General BUFORD:

The enemy have cavalry pickets 2 miles to our right. A wagon train is moving from there toward Frederick.

DANIELS,

Captain.

July 11, 1863.

General Commanding:

The enemy's cavalry are crossing the creek on our left in force.

DANIELS,

Captain.

General Commanding:

Enemy are advancing infantry across the Antietam, about 1 mile to our left.

DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

General Commanding:

The enemy are advancing infantry and cavalry across the Antietam

about 1 mile to our left.

DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

General SEDGWICK:

GENERAL:

The enemy are intrenching on the crest of a hill one-half mile east of Funkstown, and have batteries on the hill north of Funkstown, supported by infantry.

DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

July 13, 1863.

General Commanding:

GENERAL:

The enemy are intrenching on the crest of the hill 1 mile east of Funkstown, and have batteries on the hills north of Funkstown, supported by infantry.

DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

SEMINARY STATION

- 6 a. m.

Generals MEADE and SEDGWICK:

GENERALS:

Enemy's skirmishers are advancing on our right-the right of town.

DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

July 15, 1863.

General SEDGWICK:

The enemy occupy the same position as last night. All quiet.

July 15, 1863.

General SEDGWICK:

The enemy are hard at work on breastworks, and placing artillery in position.

SWAIN.

GENERAL: Citizens report siege guns northwest of town on the works.

Major-General MEADE:

GENERAL: I have ascertained upon good authority the position of rebel forces now in front. General Hood's headquarters are 1, 2 miles in front of the Female Seminary on the pike; General Longstreet on his right, Generals Heth and Ransom between Longstreet and the river. General Lee's headquarters near Saint James College. The enemy have a line of rifle-pits are circular redoubts, in which are placed their guns, five of which near the town are 32-pounders.

N. DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

July 14, 1863.

- At 4 a. m. discovered that the enemy had evacuated their works; tried to communicate the facts through Lieutenant

211 Chapter XXXIX] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

Tuckerman by signals to Generals Meade and Sedgwick, but was unable to call him; but immediately commanding, and to Captain Nicodemus by signals at 6 a. m. I immediately ordered Lieutenants Swain and Galbraith to take their stations on the enemy's works, which they did, Lieutenant Galbraith being the first to enter them. He immediately communicated to me the fact, by signals, that the enemy had left at 2 a. m. I then proceeded to Williamsport with Lieutenants Swain, Tuckerman to open communication by signals with Falling Waters, which they nearly accomplished that night. I at the same time was trying to open with Captain Denicke at Fairview, but was unable to do so. I would most respectfully call your attention to the uniform good conduct and gallantry while under fire of Privates A. V. Richards and Edward H. Haskell, both doing their duty manfully under fire; would also state that several important messages were not taken down at the time when sent, and were forgotten. All of which I most respectfully submit.

I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant,

N. DANIELS,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

Captain WILLIAM J. L. NICODEMUS,

Signal Officer. ----

Numbers 20. Report of Captain William G. McCreary, Signal Officer.

SIGNAL CAMP OF INSTRUCTION,

July 20, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations from July 6 to July 16, 1863, during the retreat of the rebel forces under General Lee from Maryland: I received my orders July 6, and same evening started for Frederick; arrived there on the evening of the 7th instant. On the 8th, the Army of the Potomac being on the move, I started for South Mountain, where our advance line rested. Was ordered back to Middletown by you, to open a station there. Upon my arrival there, I found General Meade had established his headquarters, and Captain Norton agreeing to relieve me with one of his officers, I returned to report to you at the pass. Early next morning, with the advance of our troops, in company with yourself, advanced beyond Boonsborough, when I was directed by you to report to the right, with the right brigade of General Buford's cavalry division, General Merritt commanding, Captain Daniels being in the center and Lieutenant Tuckerman on the left of same division, to keep open communication along the line. Soon after taking our positions, an advance was made along the line, and we advanced with them. At the crossing of Beaver Creek, the enemy were established with infantry, cavalry, and artillery, to dispute our advance, but after a severe skirmish were driven back.

212 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

Early next morning, July 10, moved forward, and drove them to Antietam, a distance of 4 miles. During this movement, I was in communication with Captain Daniels, but the rapid movements of our forces prevented sending many messages; but from our points of observation much valuable information was furnished the commanding officers, for which we received their personal thanks. On the 11th instant, I was requested by you to proceed to Black Rock, an elevated and naked rock on South Mountain Range, but on to see anything, and returned to the valley. On the 12th, again went to Black Rock, and on that day and the 13th endeavored to get communication, but in vain. On the evening of the 13th, left and went to Funkstown. Early on the morning of the 14th, received communication from Captain Daniels that the enemy had vacated their works. This communication you furnished General Howard. About 5. 15 a. m., with yourself, rode forward to their works, where Lieutenant Galbraith opened a station. At this point met some citizens who had been impressed by the rebels on the previous night and compelled to act as guides, and when within 2 miles of Williamsport had been permitted to return. Their report that there were no rebels on this side of Williamsport was transmitted to General Meade by you. After consulting you, concluded our best course was to proceed and try to get the same information to General Kelley, at Fairview. On arriving at the junction of the Fairview and Greencastle turnpike, an orderly, Private Voohees, of the Sixth New York Cavalry, who had

been assigned me, was sent with dispatches to meet the Pennsylvania troops, said to be coming from Chambersburg. Near Greencastle he met the column under General Dana, who, considering the dispatches important, sent him to General Couch, at Chambersburh. General Couch thanked the signal officer for the timely information (these arrived five hours in advance of the dispatches from General Meade), and caused a rapid movement of these forces. At the Conococheague Bridge a Union paroled soldier and a rebel of the Sixth North Carolina Infantry were picked up. The former had been across the Potomac, and reported that the enemy were almost entirely across. The rebel was sent to General Kelley. On approaching Clear Spring, met the advance of General Kelley immediately moved his whole division rapidly in the direction of Williamsport. After resting our horses, we followed, overtaking the column, and arrived at Williamsport to find the enemy gone, as we had reported. Although the weather was such that but comparatively little could be accomplished by signals, yet I received the personal thanks of General Merritt, Kelley, and Averell for much valuable and reliable information furnished them. From this point returned to camp. The following are some of the communications sent and received:

July 9.

GENERAL MERRITT:

A battery of the enemy is visible on the crest of the hill. I can also see bayonets, indicating that it is supported by infantry. No cavalry visible except pickets.

McCREARY,

Signal Officer.

213 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

July 10.

GENERAL MERRITT:

Three squadrons of rebel cavalry have passed to our right, and are concealed behind the woods. We have not any skirmishers in that direction.

MCCREARY,

Signal Officer.

TO COMMANDER OF THE RIGHT:

Cease firing in your front. Captain McCreary, signal officer, reports three squadrons of cavalry passing to your right. Throw out skirmishers, and keep a sharp lookout to prevent being flanked.

MERRITT,

General.

General Howard wishes to know anything relative to the enemy's movements in front.

T. R. CLARK.

All quiet. Enemy are throwing up earthworks near Antietam Creek.

McCREARY.

Our cavalry are retiring from the right. The enemy's cavalry and infantry are advancing on the left.

DANIELS.

July 13.

Captain NICODEMUS:

The enemy are reported by a citizen from within their lines to have broken up their camps, and to be moving all their wagon trains toward Falling Waters.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. G. McCREARY,

Captain, Signal Corps, U. S. Army.

Captain WILLIAM J. L. NICODEMUS,

Signal Officer. ---

Numbers 21. Report of Lieutenant George A. Fisher, Acting Signal Officer.

GEORGETOWN, D. C., July 18, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of duty performed since July 6, 1863: On the evening of the 6th, was ordered to precede the main party, with Lieutenants Herzog and Rushby, and with our men accompany and guard the wagon train to Frederick, Md., where we arrived on the 8th instant, and immediately reported to you at your headquarters. About an hour afterward I received orders from you to proceed without delay to Crampton's Gap, in the South Mountain Range, and open communication with Middletown, Maryland Heights, and South Mountain, if possible, and take observations of the movements of the enemy. I endeavored that evening to open communication, but was unable to find a point where I could see more than one of the stations, and, after calling Maryland Heights for some time, was obliged to give it up for the night. Early next morning I moved across the gap, and proceeded along the ridge about 3 miles, and selected a station from which,

with some labor, I was enabled to communicate with both Middletown and Maryland Heights, thus completing the line of stations between Maryland Heights and Hagerstown.

214 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

On the 12th instant, Captains [Joseph] Gloskoski and [Richard] Dinsmore received orders from Captain Norton to close up the station at Middletown and rejoin his command. I was then obliged to find some other station with which to keep up the line of communication, and was enable to do so with Lieutenant Briggs, who was at ELK Ridge, in communication with South Mountain. owing to the state od the weather, for the most of the time we were unable to take many observations, but embraced every opportunity that presented itself. I submit a few of the messages transmitted:

MARYLAND HEIGHTS, July 14, 1863.

Captain NICODEMUS:

our troops crossed and reoccupied Harper's Ferry and Bolivar Heights to-day. Can see no indication or movement of any troops in or near Martinsburg.

HERZOG,

Lieutenant.

July 15, 1863.

Captain NICODEMUS: All quiet at Maryland Heights; very few troops here.

HERZOG.

July 15, I was ordered to close up station and report to you at Frederick without delay.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. A. FISHER,

Lieutenant, Acting Signal Officer. ---

No. 22. Report of Lieutenant Ephraim A. Briggs, Acting Signal Officer.

INSTRUCTION CAMP, U. S. SIGNAL CORPS,

July 19, 1863.

CAPTAIN: In compliance with an order received this morning to make an official report of all duty performed by me as acting signal officer of the Washington Reserve Signal Corps since the 6th instant, I submit the following: At 5 p. m. of the 6th instant, I received orders to be prepared to leave camp with the party going to the front for active duty in the field. At 8 p. m. the 6th instant, said party left camp, Georgetown, D. C., proceeding toward Frederick, riding all night, arriving at Frederick, Md., 5 p. m. of the 7th instant, when I was ordered to proceed toward South Mountain without delay, in company with Captain N. Daniels. We proceeded to South Mountain, opening signal station on the Washington Monument at 9 a. m. of the 8th instant, the heavy rain falling all night preventing its being sooner accomplished. By order of Captain Daniels, I proceeded to Elk Mountain to open signal station communication with one on Washington Monument. Arriving at Elk Mountain 11 a. m., I opened station, and called Monument until 1 p. m. ; had no reply; atmosphere was clear. I saw the enemy's pickets within 2 miles of this point. At 2. 30 p. m., commenced and called Monument all the afternoon, excepting from 44 p. m. until

215 Chapter XXXIX] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

5. 30 p. m., without receiving reply; 4 p. m. received following message by orderly: To Signal Officer: Ascertain and send immediate report whether the rebels are in Sharpsburg or Keedysville. Their evident intention is to take Sharpsburg. Make report in writing, and send by orderly.

A. B. JEROME,

First Lieutenant, and Acting Assistant Signal Officer.

At 4. 15 p. m. sent following answer:

Lieutenant JEROME:

I can see no signs of enemy occupying Sharpsburg or Keedysville. Their cavalry were in both places this morning, I am informed by reliable citizens. If you can communicate with Washington Monument, tell them to answer my call.

E. A. BRIGGS,

First Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

At 9 p. m. returned to Boonsborough, and procured rations and forage for my men and animals, oil, &c.

At 10. 30 a. m., received following by orderly:

Lieutenant BRIGGS:

Proceed to station on Elk Ridge, which you occupied last night, and communicate with station one-half mile northeast of Boonsborough. If you cannot see that station, communicate with the Monument.

NICODEMUS,

Captain, Signal Officer.

July 9. -The day smoky; not able to do anything.

July 10. - Called the Monument from 8. 30 a. m. hour and thirty minutes before any reply.

At 3 a. m. received from Monument signal station:

TO ELK MOUNTAIN:

You will go to the gap, and open with Bakersville and the white flag at the foot of the Monument.

By order of-

NORTON,

Captain.

In obedience to above, I spent from that time till 6 p. m. answering and swinging, as I saw three or four white flags swinging in vicinity of Bakersville, though facing too much to my right. Swung torch during the evening without any success. Called the Monument to report I was not able to communicate with Bakersville; after an hour's work, gave them up.

July 11. -The morning thick and hazy. Clear at 10. 30 a. m. At 1 p. m. received from Washington Monument:

Lieutenant BRIGGS:

I want communication with Maryland Heights, through Boonsborough and Lieutenant Fisher.

NICODEMUS;

Captain.

5 p. m. - Sent from Elk Mountain:

Captain NICODEMUS:

I have seen Fisher, at Crampton's Pass, and have with Maryland Heights when atmosphere permits.

E. A. BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, Acting Signal Officer.

216 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

10 p. m. - Sent from Elk Mountain:

Captain NICODEMUS:

Maryland Heights are in full view of this point, or at Crampton's house. On this range, both Maryland Heights and Monument are to be seen from this point excepting at Dam No. 4.

E. A. BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, Acting Signal Officer.

Through messenger, I called Monument till 12 a. m. and got no reply, and sent it by an orderly.

July 12. - Thick and excessively smoky all day; not able to see anything.

12 m. -Received by Orderly Knapp:

Lieutenant BRIGGS:

You will open signal station on Elk Mountain, beyond Keedysville, communicating with Maryland Heights, Crampton's Pass, Washington Monument, and, when Downsville station is open, with Fairview. You will report to me through Washington Monument station, or in any way possible. My headquarters are with the right wing. Answer all flags. You will be relieved when station is not needed.

NICODEMUS,

Captain, Signal Officer.

Sent the following at 1 p. m.:

Captain NICODEMUS:

My men are in need of rations and my animals of forage. Please light a fire at 9 p. m., that I may find your locality. In order to run this station successfully, requires more men.

Your obedient servant,

BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

3. 30 p. m. - Heavy shower until 5. 30 p. m. Worked until 12 m. Could not get the Monument. Went to bed.

July 13. -Day rainy and thick. Cut the timber and bushed from top of mountain, so as to command all points. Built a tower. Had calls from several signal officers of Army of the Potomac viewing the country and Antietam battle-ground.

ELK MOUNTAIN, 12 m.

Captain NICODEMUS:

The weather has prevented my getting Bakersville or Downsville. Communication to Maryland Height is perfect. I tried to communicate with you via the Monument yesterday without any success.

E. A. BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

July 14, 8 a. m. -Sent from Elk Mountain:

Captain NICODEMUS:

Captain Norton orders me to Crampton's house, on this range of mountains. I await your order.

BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

Kept a close watch all day for flags, and till 1 a. m. july 15 for lights near Mount Moriah or Donnellies Hill.

8. 30 p. m. - Received from Fisher, at Crampton's Pass:

Captain NICODEMUS:

Our troops crossed and reoccupied Harper's Ferry and Bolivar Heights. Saw Martinsburg to-day; no movement to indicate troops there.

HERZOG,

Lieutenant. and Acting Signal Officer.

217 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

Called Monument one hour, and closed up, unable to forward the message.

July 15. -Smoky all morning and afternoon. Orderly brought following message: Lieutenants Herzog, Rushby, Briggs, and Fisher with parties, will report to me at Frederick without delay.

NICODEMUS,

Captain, Signal Officer Comdg.

Washington Reserve Signal Party.

Sent same to Lieutenant Fisher without any delay, and immediately repaired to Frederick and awaited further orders.

July 17, 12 m. -Party left Frederick, proceeding toward Rockville; at Nielsville, by order of Captain Nicodemus, I remained there until the wagon train came up and took charge of them, not going in camp until next morning. Arose at 3 a. m., prepared for an early start on the road at 5 a. m., moved moderately, reaching Georgetown, D. C., at 12. 30 p. m. of 18th instant. I would most respectfully mention Private Temple for his untiring attention to duties on station and uniform good behavior. Private Boynton seems to be a most willing man, ever ready, but lacking experience. I would also say I never have been found absent from post.

I am yours respectfully,

E. A. BRIGGS,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

Captain WILLIAM J. L. NICODEMUS,

Signal Officer.

Numbers 23. Report of Lieutenant Julius M Swain, Acting Signal Officer.

GEORGETOWN, D. C., July 18, 1863.

CAPTAIN: I beg leave to submit the following report, which I regret contains but an imperfect record of the messages sent while with the signal party recently under your command in Maryland: I had the misfortune to lose my memorandum book containing a copy of the messages sent to General Buford from station near Boonsborough during the engagement on the afternoon of the 8th instant, as well as some others of later date. I accordance, with your orders, I left Frederick on the evening of the 7th instant, and proceeded to South Mountain Gap, in company with Captain Denicke, at which point we were ordered to report to Captain Daniels, July 8. We arrived at 3 a. m., and as it was raining very hard and Captain Daniels could not be found, we lay by till daylight. Captain Daniels arrived at the Mountain House at 8 o'clock, and as soon as the weather would permit, about 9 a. m., I was ordered to Boonsborough, where I arrived at 10 o'clock, and reported to General Kilpatrick, after which I opened station on hill in rear of town, which commanded a good view of our front. Saw the enemy's battery open on us at 10. 30 a. m., and shortly afterward, when they changed position and advanced toward Boonsborough by the pike, reported fact to commanding officer.

218 N. C., VA., W. VA., MD., PA., ETC. [Chapter XXXIX.

At 12 m. Captain Daniels opened station near the Hagerstown pike, about 1 miles beyond Boonsborough, and ordered me to join him, which I did at once. I remained there during the day in communication with Captain Denicke, on Washington Monument, whose station overlooked the enemy, and sent frequent messages from him to General Buford, then in command. At 3 p. m. sent the following:

Captain DENICKE:

Lieutenant Denicke will open communication between you and Frederick.

DANIELS,

Captain.

July 9. - Enemy retreated last evening about 2 miles toward Funkstown, and Captain Daniels went to front this morning, leaving me on the station opened yesterday. On your arrival, about noon, your ordered me to send frequent dispatches to Colonel Myer at Washington, apprising him of all movements of interest.

Sent following:

BOONSBOROUGH, July 9-7. 30 p. m.

Heavy skirmishing has just opened about 3 miles from here, on Hagerstown road.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

July 10. -Removed station to hill near Boonsborough, and opened communication with Lieutenant Tuckerman on left of our line, with Captain Denicke on Monument, and Captain Stone on Sharpsburg pike, near General French's headquarters. Received orders report all important messages by telegraph to General Meade and Colonel Myer. During the day sent the following telegrams:

BOONSBOROUGH, July 10-7 a. m.

Colonel ALBERT J. MYER:

Heavy skirmishing has just commenced about 4 miles from here, toward Williamsport. The Sixth Army Corps is in advance, on way to front.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

SIGNAL STATION NEAR BOONSBOROUGH,

July 10-8 a. m.

Colonel ALBERT J. MYER:

The skirmishing has become quite general, with heavy artillery firing. The First Corps just passed here, on way to front.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

BOONSBOROUGH, July 10-10 a. m.

Colonel ALBERT J. MYER:

Heavy firing still continues near Funkstown. In my dispatch of this morning, I should have said Hagerstown instead of Williamsport.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

BOONSBOROUGH, July 10-11. 30 a. m.

Colonel MYER:

Has been no firing for an hour. Eleventh Corps, General Howard, just passed, and have taken the Williamsport road. The men are in excellent spirits.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

219 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

BOONSBOROUGH-1 p. m.

Colonel ALBERT J. MYER:

Our right has driven the enemy to Funkstown, 2 miles from Hagerstown.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

3. 30 p. m. Colonel ALBERT J. MYER:

The infantry relieved the cavalry at 2 p. m. Sharp Firing since. The enemy still occupies Funkstown and the crossing of the Big Antietam.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

SIGNAL STATION,

Boonsborough-6 p. m.

Major-General MEADE:

I have been informed by the citizens that it is reported a large amount of ammunition is expected by the rebs to-day from Richmond. By order of Major-General French:

C. F. STONE,

Captain, and Signal Officer.

July 11, agreeably to your order, I reported to you at station 1 mile east of Funkstown with party this noon. Remained on your station during afternoon and night. I had communication with Lieutenant Galbraith, and with Captain [William H.] Hill and Lieutenant [Isaac S.] Lyon, of Fifth Corps.

STATION NEAR FUNKSTOWN, July 12, 1863-8. 30 p. m.

Colonel MYER:

Our line has crossed the creek beyond Funkstown.

NICODEMUS,

Captain.

Sent copy of above to General Meade. Remained on station till 9. 30 a. m., when your ordered me to follow you to Hagerstown. Arrived there at 10 o'clock, just as the enemy was shelling our battery near seminary, after their rear had passed out of town. Opened station nearly 1 mile beyond seminary, at right of Greencastle pike, but, not having a good situation, I moved by your permission to the northwest of Hagerstown, near Catholic cemetery, where I had an excellent view of all movements on our right.

At 12 m. I sent you the following by orderly:

STATION NEAR HAGERSTOWN.

Captain NICODEMUS:

I made a circuit after I left you till I came in sight of enemy's left; then I placed my party in the hollow, and watched them over the hill. Their left is advancing slowly but surely, and now occupies ground which I left within half an hour. I sent note to Captain Oliphant, commanding Fifth Michigan Cavalry, who are the outer vedettes. From what I can see I think the rebels are in considerable force over the crest of the hill. We can see them here with the naked eye. My flag is behind the hill, though in plain sight of you at left of Catholic cemetery.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JULIUS M. SWAIN,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

At 3 p. m. I notified you that about 500 cavalry had come down the hill toward me, a portion of whom were in line of battle; also that I saw 20 mounted men, with axes, ride rapidly to right of our line. At 5. 30 p. m. I sent you the following:

SIGNAL STATION-5. 30 p. m.

Captain NICODEMUS:For two hours before the rain I saw a commanding officer, with low black hat and heavy black beard, with his staff and orderlies, 24 in number. He was evi-

220

dently making a reconnaissance, and now I see his headquarters are pitched on crest of the hill, in plain sight. About 500 cavalry are massed in front, and their picket line is very strong. Commanding officers are now evidently directing their movements, and I see three squads on the hill, where the officers are pointing to our right and making various gestures. It looks as if the cavalry were preparing to make a charge into town. The "graybacks" are getting very impudent, and are firing on our skirmishers in all directions, especially on extreme right, where they have been quiet all day. Since I commenced to write, the cavalry I spoke of have mounted, and seem to be in readiness for a move. A citizen, whom I saw a mile from here, tells me that the enemy has a line of intrenchments just over hill, as he was there yesterday and saw the works.

Very respectfully,

JULIUS M. SWAIN,

Lieutenant, and Acting Signal Officer.

July 13. -Notified you at 6 a. m. that the enemy was hard at work throwing up breastworks, and later in the forenoon sent you a message that they had placed three sections of battery in position, bearing about 30 degrees east of north, in a direction to repel an attack from our right. Notified you several times during the day of the progress of the enemy's work.

At 7. 30 p. m. sent the following message:

Our cavalry, under General Kilpatrick, who were massed in the hollow on our right, were forced to retire when about to charge on the enemy.

Rained nearly all night, and on the morning of the 14th was hazy till 6 o'clock, when we discovered that the enemy had abandoned his works. Sent you message to that effect, and was ordered to open station on the hill recently occupied by them. Proceeded there at once, and in half an hour was ordered to report to you at Williamsport, in company with Lieutenant Galbraith. On my arrival, was ordered to Falling Waters, and at 3. 30 opened station there, and communicated with Captain Daniels at Williamsport.

Sent following message:

Captain DANIELS:

No signs of the enemy. They all crossed here before noon. Remained on station till 7. 30 p. m., when I found that I could not communicate with any one, as the station at Williamsport had been broken up.

July 15. -Reported to camp near Funkstown, and was ordered by Captain McCreary to return to Hagerstown, to rest the horses and remain till party came up.

July 16. -Came to Frederick, where we spent the night.

July 17. -Returned to signal camp, Georgetown, D. C. Before closing this report, I wish to call your attention to Private Ezra M. Chaffee, Sixth Michigan Cavalry, Company F, who acted as orderly eight days, and by his promptness, strict attention to duty, and cheerful disposition rendered me much assistance. I respectfully recommend that he be detailed for duty in this corps, as I feel that he would make an excellent flagman.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JULIUS M. SWAIN,

Second Lieutenant Thirty-ninth Massachusetts Vols.,

Acting Signal Officer.

Captain WILLIAM J. L. NICODEMUS,

Signal Officer.

221 Chapter XXXIX.] THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN.

Numbers 24. Reports of Brigadier General Rufus Ingalls, U. S. Army, Chief Quartermaster. *

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
Camp near Culpeper, Va., September 29, 1863.

GENERAL: In compliance with your General Orders, No. 13, of July 22 last, I have the honor to submit the following report on the operation of the quartermaster's department of the Army of the Potomac during the fiscal year ending June 30:

On June 14, we broke up our headquarters camp near Falmouth, and pursued the route by Dumfries, Fairfax, Leesburg, Edwards Ferry and Poolesville, to Frederick City, on our second Maryland Campaign. The army was in excellent condition, and transportation was perfect, and our sources of supply same as in first campaign. The officers in our department were thoroughly trained in their duties. It was almost as easy to maneuver the trains as the troops. It is, therefore, unnecessary to go further into the details of the march. The rebel army had again invaded Maryland, and had even advanced as far as Carlisle and York, in Pennsylvania. The Army of the Potomac was again in pursuit of its inveterate foe, and finally met him in pitched battle of three days' fighting, and compelled him to again recross the Potomac. General Meade, justly the conqueror and hero of Gettysburg, assumed commend of the army on June 28. On the last day of the fiscal year, two days later, I was at Taneytown, with headquarters of the army.

RUFUS INGALLS,

Chief Quartermaster.

THE QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL OF THE ARMY.

OFFICE OF CHIEF QUARTERMASTER,

ARMIES OPERATING AGAINST RICHMOND,

City Point, Va., August 28, 1864.

GENERAL: In compliance with your General Orders, Numbers 29, of the 6th ultimo, calling for an annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, I have the honor to submit the following:

On July 1, the headquarters remained at that point [Taneytown, Md.], while the army was being concentrated at Gettysburg. The First and Eleventh Corps opened the great battle of Gettysburg on that day. The wagon trains and all impedimenta had been assembled