Head Quarters 7^th Regt N.C.T.
July 19^th, 1864

Capt

I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of this regiment since the opening of the Campaign. At an early hour on the morning of the 4^th of May, orders were received to be in readiness to move at a moments notice and at one P.M. the regiment moved off taking the road through Orange C.H. towards Fredericksburg. Marching until 11 P.M. and camping near [ ville]. Resumed the line of march at daylight on the 5^th and came up with the enemy on the plank road about dark. Our line was formed on the right of the road the left of the 7^th Regt resting on the road. We were then ordered to move forward to the support of McGowan's Brigade which was supposed to be in front of us. After advancing about 300 yards we came to a dense swamp, about 250 yards wide, upon the opposite side of which the enemy was massed. He immediately opened upon us but Col Davidson who was in command of the regiment supposing this fire to have been directed on McGowans Brigade, ordered a halt, and remained there until the firing ceased when he supposed that McGowan whom he had been ordered to support, had succeeded in driving in the enemy, when he ordered the regiment to advance. After moving about 50 yards into the swamp, a heavy fire was opened upon us again from the front, and again Col Davidson ordered a halt, until the firing ceasing the regiment was again ordered forward under the same supposition as stated above. After moving 50 or 75 yards, the enemy again opened a heavy fire in our front, this time not more than 50 or 75 yards from us. At this time owing to the darkness, smoke and density of the swamp, it was impossible to distinguish friend from foe. After remaining here for a short time, it was discovered that a column was moving towards the plank road on our left flank, but supposing it to be McGowans Brigade little attention was paid to it until our left wing having

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arrived within a few paces of it was ordered to surrender, and almost at the same instant, a destructive volley was poured into the regiment, which created some confusion. The right of the regiment fell back a short distance and the left owing to the proximity of the enemy and the heavy fire poured into it, fell back in considerable disorder to Scales Brigade, on the left of which it formed. Lt Col Davidson having been captured, and not knowing what had become of the left wing of the regiment I assumed command of the right wing and moved back on a line with the 33^rd and had scarcely formed here before the enemy having advanced his lines poured into this wing a distructive fire, causing it to fall back again in some disorder a small portion of which was rallied and carried back a third time on a line with the 33^rd. Very soon after this orders were received to fall back to the edge of the swamp, after remaining there about one hour, we were ordered to form in rear of Scales line where the left of the regiment had been rallied and formed, and where we rested for the night. The casualties of the regiment in this engagement were 5 killed 39 wounded 31 missing - Total 75 Early on the morning of the 6^th and before our lines were formed, the enemy attacked in force, and this regiment in common with the whole Division broke in Confusion, afterwards, being rallied, it was moved to the left of the plank road about 2 miles where breast works were erected, nothing worthy of note occurring during the remainder of the day or the following.

On the 8^th moved to the right in the direction of Spotsylvania C.H. and camped about 12 o'clock that night On the 9^th arrived at Spotsylvania C.H. at 12 M, and proceeded to throw up breastworks. On the 10^th we were ordered to the left, about dark, to charge the enemy out of the breastworks which they had succeeded in capturing on a part of our line, but this having been done before our arrival, returned to our original position. Nothing more of importance occurred until the morning of the 12^th

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when the enemy assaulted our lines on the left and succeeded in repulsing our front line and by their movement flanking on the left of the Brigade and driving in the regiments on our left flank. Receiving notice of this fact from Lt Col Cowan of the 33^rd I did not await orders, but moved my regiment by the right flank, and formed behind a short traverse running at right angles with the Original lines. There with the 33^rd succeeded in stemming the tide of federal victory and holding him in check until reinforcements coming up the works were retaken, but a portion of the works being still held by the enemy, we were ordered to charge. After changing and driving the enemy about 0/4 of a mile, held him in check until the greater part of the lines were established, when we were ordered to fall back to our original line, but it being occupied, formed a second line in their rear. Remained there until 1 o'clock P.M. when we were moved to the right to a brick kiln near the Court House. Received orders to report to Lt Col Cowan of the 33^rd, and moved across the breastworks into a piece of woods about 300 yards in front of the works, after reaching these woods, was ordered by Col Cowan to detach a Company for the purpose of finding out the strength and position of the enemy, for which purpose, the Companies being small, two were sent out under Command of Capt Williamson a similar number having been thrown out from the 33^rd. Capt William moved forward with the whole skirmish line, the two regiments moving forward to his support. After moving through these woods, being joined by the rest of the Brigade under Genl Lane came up with the enemy in force. After a short but sharp engagement and having no support on my right (the enemy having moved up two lines on my right and pouring in an infilade fire of artillery and musketry) the right was ordered to fall back a short distance to prevent its capture. Very soon the whole line was discerned to be falling back, creating some confusion which it was impossible to check, until we reached the outer edge of the woods, where the line was again formed. Here

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we received orders to fall back to the breastworks, where we remained for the night. Casualties in the different engagements of this day were killed 11 sounded 41 and missing 3 Total 55. Nothing to note occurred until the afternoon of the 21^st when having discovered that the enemy had left our front, we were ordered to the right of the Court House and at 5 P.M. advanced on the enemys entrenching line of skirmishers and drove them out, retired after dark and marched until 2 o'clock at night. Resumed march on the next morning towards [ junction], nothing occurred until the afternoon of the 23^rd, when the Brigade was ordered back towards the river, for the purpose of checking the enemy who were close on our rear - at this point, the regiment was detached for the purpose of guarding a ford and consequently was not engaged, with the rest of the Brigade. Left this position on the next morning and moved back about three miles to the Va Central R. Road. Remained here until the 26^th, when we marched towards Ashland, Continued our march on the 27^th and went into Camp near Mechanicsville. Remained there until the evening of the 28^th when we moved to within 2 miles of Atlees station for the night. Nothing of importance occurred, until June 2^nd when we moved to the right and arrived at Gaines Mill at 2 P.M., where we threw up entrenchments. At 5 P.M. moved to the right, and formed in rear of Breckinridge's Division. Afterwards moved on a line with him, and helped to dislodge the enemy from Turkey Ridge, where we threw up entrenchments and remained until the 13^th of June when the enemy having vacated our front moved by the right flank Crossing the Chickahominy at McClellans Bridge. Moved down the river, Crossed the York River R.R., passed through White Oak swamp, and came up with the enemy near Fraziers Farm, where we advanced in line of battle through a dense forest. Halted a short time, and retired about 10 P.M. to the breastworks in rear of Mahones Division. Nothing of interest occurring until the morning of the 17^th, when we moved out on the Darbytown road towards James River, and camped about 10 o'clock near

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Darbytown. Resumed the march on the next morning Crossing the James River at Drewry's Bluff, marched to Petersburg and went into camp at Battery No. 38 near that place. Next morning went into the works between Batteries No. 36 & 37. Remained in this position until the evening of 31^st when, the enemy having made a demonstration on the Petersburg and Weldon R. Road we were ordered to that point. The enemy having discovered our force fell back, and we resumed our original position about 10 o'clock P.M. On the 22^nd moved back towards the Weldon R.R. and towards the enemys left and attacked him, strongly entrenched, about 4 o'clock P.M. after getting in easy musket range of these works, and having a brisk engagement of probably a half hours duration, was ordered to fall back, and moved by the left flank to the support of Mahones Division who had attacked the enemy in front where we remained until 10 o'clock when we moved back to our original position. Our Casualties in these engagements were Killed 1 Wounded 17 and Missing -- Total 18. On the 23^rd moved to the left and relieved a Florida Regiment of Finegans Brigade. Nothing of note occurring until the evening of the 2^nd July, when we were relieved and ordered to Chaffin Bluff, which place we reached about 10 o'clock of the 3^rd Crossed the James River, and took our present position about 4 miles below the Bluff.

The casualties in this regiment since the opening of the Campaign are as follows --

Com. Officers Killed--1
Wounded--6.
Missing--4.
Enlisted men Killed--17
Wounded--97.
Missing--34

Grand Total Killed--18. Wounded--103. Missing--38.

I am Captain Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servant
J.G. Harris Capt
Comdg 7^th N.C. Troops

Hd Qrs 18^th N.C. Regt near Chaffin's Bluff Va
July 18^th 1864
Capt E.J. Hale Jr.
A.A.G.

In compliance with the requirements of circular of the 14^th inst. I have the honor to submit for your inspection the following report, in outline, of the operations of this Regiment since the 2^nd June when the command devolved upon me.

The Regiment at that time had just moved from Storr's Farm and with the Brigade established a Line of Battle on the right of Gen Breckenridge and near McGhee's House, threw up Breastworks and remained there in Line of Battle until the morning of the 13^th June when the Enemy having withdrawn from our front, orders were received to march. The Brigade crossed the Chickahominy at the McClellan Bridge and moved to Riddles Shop in the vicinity of Fraziers Farm and immediately formed in Line of Battle under a severe artillery fire. On the 17^th June with the Brigade it was ordered to Chaffins Farm and Bivouacked there for the night. Early the next morning the march was resumed in the direction of Drewery's Bluff, where it crossed the James River on the Pontoon Bridge at that point, and then moved to Petersburg, at which place it arrived at about 6 O'clock P.M. After resting for a few minutes it took position in the works near Battery No. 37. On the 19^th it was moved down the works to Battery No. 34. It remained here until the evening of the 21^st when it became known that the Enemy's Cavalry were threatening the Petersburg and Weldon Rail Road the Regiment with the Brigade was ordered to take a position on the Rail Road about three (3) miles South of the City and remained there until after night when it was ordered to its original position in Line near Battery No. 34. About 12 o'clock M on the 22^nd the Division was ordered to assault the Enemy's Left flank and the Brigade becoming engaged the Regiment was exposed to a severe fire and sustained a loss of six (6) wounded, one falling into the hands of the Enemy. Soon afterwards the Division was recalled and ordered to Support Gen Mahone's Division and [ ] exposed to a severe musketry fire with[out] any loss however. Shortly after dark it was ordered to withdraw and occupy the same position it had left a few hours previously.

The Regiment remained in changing its position until the night of the 3^rd of July when with the Brigade it was ordered to Chaffins Bluff, and arrived at 11 O'clock A.M. on the 4^th where it now is (July 18^th 1864)

I cannot Speak too highly of the conduct officers and men of the Regiment undergoing marches of the most trying character - enduring without [a murmur] every hardship - Cheerfully facing the Enemy whenever called upon to do so, and acting with conspicuous gallantry and zeal on every occasion. Their conduct has been such as to merit the highest praise.

Where all have thus acted it is extremely difficult to discriminate and would be perhaps unjust in me to particularize.

The following list will show the [Casualties] in the Regiment in each Engagement.

I have the honor to be Very Respectfully
Your obd't Servant
John W McGill
Lt Col Comdg 18^th NCT

Hd. Qurs 18^th NCT
Near Petersburg Va
Sept 9th/64

Capt

I have the honour to submit for your information the following account of the part taken by the 18^th Regt. in this campaign from the 6^th of May to the 28^th of July 1864 exclusive. Daylight on the morning of the 6^th, dawned upon the Regiment lying in the woods near the Plank Road, worn out from fatigue undergone on the previous day, out of amunition, and the arms so badly fould from the fireing in the engagement of the 5^th, that but few of them would fire. About 4 ½ O'clock A.M., the enemy advanced and were held in check for a short time by some troops in line, a little in front of the right of this Regiment. As soon as the advance of the enemy was made known, the Regiment was formed into as good a line as circumstances would permit, and every preparation made to receive him, that could be made, in the short time allowed. Believing that there was a line of battle (of our own troops) in my front, the Regiment was cautioned not to fire. There was also a line of troops about (30) thirty yards in rear of the position occupied by the 18^th. During the night before, or very early in the next morning, these troops had thrown together a few logs, with the view of protecting themselves from the fire of the enemy. In a short time after the enemy commenced fireing, these men (I do not

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know who commanded them) returned their fire, delivering it over the 18^th, laying in line in front of them. Being thus exposed to the fire of both friend and foe, the Regiment became somewhat confused, and commenced to fall back. Seeing this, and observing Col Barry near the left of the Regiment where this confusion existed, I suppose that he had ordered the Regt. to fall back to this temporary work above mentioned. On this supposition I ordered the right wing of the Regiment to fall back to this line, but when it had arrived at this point, the retreat became general, and from the line of fire of the enemy it appeared that he had nearly entirely surrounded us. At the distance of about two hundred yards in rear of this line of logs, with the assistance of Captains Lewis, Poisson, Brice, and Wooten, and Lieut E.N. Robinson, and other officers, I halted and reformed the right wing, on the Regimental Colours, and started to advance upon the enemy, in concert with a small body (as I have since learned) of Walkers Brigade of Heths Division, but the enemy appearing on the right flank of Walkers men, in such numbers as to render a further advance imprudent, it was deemed expedient to withdraw. About (200) two hundred yards further to the rear, I found Genl Kershaw's Brigade in line of battle. I immediately reported to Genl Kershaw, and requested him to assign me to position where I could render some assistance in checking the advance of the enemy, but Genl Kershaw becoming much exasperated

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at the bad conduct of some stragglers, ordered every one who did not belong to his Brigade to leave its vicinity. Just then I learned that a portion of the Brigade was a short distance further to the rear, and as Genl Kershaw had so ordered away, every soldier who did not belong in his (Kershaw's) Brigade I move the detachment under my command consisting of men from every Regiment in this Brigade (Lane's) about (200) two hundred yards further to the rear, where I found the 37^th N.C. Regiment under Col Barbour, a portion of the 7^th Regiment under Capt. McAulay, and a portion of Scales' Brigade under Col. Hyman. Having united with this portion of the Brigade, I reported to Col Barbour, the senior officer present and was ordered to move to the Plank Road at which point I arrived with about one hundred and fifty men to the Regiment, and united with the remainder of the Regiment under Col. Barry and Maj Wooten, who had been ordered to the other side of the Plank Road, to repel a threatened advance of the enemy in that direction. From this point, the Regiment with the rest of the Brigade, was ordered to the left of the 3^rd corps, and placed into line in such a manner as to connect with the two corps (2^nd and 3^rd) which had hitherto been separated. In this position the Regiment threw up breast works and remained until Sunday morning May 8^th when orders were received to move. About 12 O'clock at night, the Regiment bivouaced in an open field. Early next morning the march was resumed, and about 10 O'clock

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A.M. the column arrived at Spottsylvania C.H. Here the Regiment again threw up breastworks and remained until about 10 O'clock next morning when it was ordered further to the left, and there built breastworks. A dense fog covered the earth on the morning of the 12^th so dense in fact, that it was scarcely possible to distinguish an object at a distance of (10) ten paces. About 5 O'clock A.M. the enemy advanced and broke through our lines, in Maj Genl Edward Johnston's front at some distance on the left of the 28^th N.C. Regt and taking the latter Regiment in the flank, swept around, and came up in the rear of the left of the 18^th. At the same time he advanced in our front and being thus attacked in front and rear Col Barry ordered the Regiment to fall back in the direction of the 33^rd N.C. in line on right of the 18^th and separated from it by a small march. But the enemy pursueing in superior numbers the Regiment was not hanlted, until it had reached a short line of earth works in rear of the line previously occupied by the 33^rd. Here those of the Regiment, who had escaped capture, were formed, and by direction of Genl Lane placed with the 28^th and 33^rd in line to check a further advance of the enemy which we succeeded in doing. The Casualties, and especially in prisoners were very heavy in this affair. But taking into consideration the situation at the time when the Regiment was ordered to fall back, it was a subject of much wonder that any escaped capture, as the Regiment being busily engaged in front with the Enemy.

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his approach in our rear was not discovered until he had nearly enveloped the Regiment and when first seen by Col Barry, his colours were very near our own which, I regret to say were with their gallant bearer Ensign, J.O. Frink captured. Among the missing were Capts, Lewis of Co "I", Wooten of Co. "H", 1^st Lieuts Corbett of Co "E", McIntosh of Co "F" and 2^nd Lieuts, Townsend & Rowland of Co "D", Elkins of Co "H", Bullard of Co. "A" and one hundred and thirty-three enlisted men. After the enemy had been checked, the Regiment was moved to the position occupied on Tuesday. About 3 O'clock P.M. the Brigade was ordered to assault the left flank of the enemy. In this assault, the Regiment numbering (28) twenty eight enlisted men, and (10) ten field and line Officers took a part, capturing several prisoners and one stand of colours the latter taken by private J.H. Wheeler of Co "E." In this engagement, the Regiment was fired into from the rear by some of Mahone's Brigade, who were to support the assaulting columns but failed to do so, and thereby necessitated a retreat. During this retreat Capt Brice, an Officer of tried gallantry was spoken to in a very abrupt, and insulting manner by Genl Mahone. I do not remember how this occurred, and as Capt Brice is now absent wounded, I have no means of ascertaining. This I do know however, that while assisting Lt. McCallum of the field (who had been badly wounded near me in retreat) that a man on horse back, (who I afterwards learned was Genl Mahone) rode up to a squad of eight or ten men (having a lot of prisoners under guard) a short distance in front of me

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and enquired if there was any Officer present. I replied that I was an Officer. He then demanded, using the expression, "Where in the Hell are you taking these men to" I informed him that I was taking them to their command which I saw forming near a house about two hundred yards in front of our line before Spottsylvania C.H. He (Genl Mahone) then ordered me back to the front with these men remarking, that the "d___d North Carolinians were deserting his brave Virginians." I replied to him that I thought that it was just the reverse, and as I saw, that the Brigade was forming at the house above mentioned and did not see anygood, that I could accomplish by needlesly exposing myself and my men to the fire of the Enemy's Artillery, I did not obey his order where upon he commended abusing the Brigade generally. I endeavored to stop him from this by starting the circumstances but as he disregarded my statement, I remarked to him that he might "go to Hell" or any where else but as for me, I would form with my command and accordingly move forward, with about (30) thirty men to the Brigade, who had joined me while talking with Genl Mahone. The casualties in this action were slight. Among the wounded was 1^st Lieut McCallum of Co "H" an Officer conspicuous for coolness and bravery in action. After this engagement the Regiment remained at Spottsylvania C.H. occupying several positions along the lines at different times until the afternoon of the 21^st of May, when with the Brigade it was ordered to a Church (name not known) about one mile south of the Court House, and sent forward to feel, and if possible, to ascertain

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the strength of the enemy's position at that point. In this advance the Regiment with the 7^th N.C. composed the second or supporting line, and assisted in driving the enemy from a line of works. About dark it was withdrawn, and ordered to march in a direction nearly south from Spottsylvania C.H. About the dawn of day the next morning (22^nd) a halt was ordered for an hour or two, at the expiration of this period, the march was resumed and continued, until about 4 O'clock P.M. Having in this time arrived in the vicinity of Nolls turn out on the Va.C.R.R. a halt was ordered and the troops bivouaced in the woods until morning and were again ordered to march, and at 11 O'clock A.M. on 23^rd May were ordered into camp near Anderson's turn out. Here however, they were permitted to remain but a short time. The enemy having crossed the North Anna river at Jericho Ford, Wilcox Division was ordered to attack them. This was done. The Regiment taking a part in the assault. At dark, the Regiment with the Brigade was withdrawn, and placed into line near Anderson's house, and remained here until Saturday the 28^th when orders were received, to march to Atlees station, near which place, it remained until Monday morning May 30^th, when it was ordered to take position on Totopotomy creek. Here the Regiment threw up works under a very severe Artillery fire, and sustained a loss of (1) one commissioned Officer Lt. F. Lewis Co "B" and (7) seven enlisted men wounded (the latter nearly all receiving mortal wounds.) At this position the Regiment remained until the 2^nd

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of June when it was ordered to Cold Harbour where it arrived about 2 O'clock P.M. and was ordered into position near McGhee's house. Here it suffered from the fire of the enemy's sharp shooters losing one commissioned Officer, Lt Buchanan of Co "F" (mortally) and (5) five enlisted men wounded. On Monday morning June 14^th the enemy having disappeared from our front The Brigade was ordered to march in the direction of Fraziers Farm, and at about 2 O'clock P.M. the Cavalry having reported the enemy in our front. The Brigade was formed into line, and moved forward into position under a severe Artillery fire. The 18^th Regiment, losing (3) three enlisted men wounded. At this place known as Riddles shop, the Regiment built (2) two lines of breastworks and remained until the evening of the 17^th June, when it was ordered to Atlees Farm. The next morning (June 18^th) the march was resumed, and continued until about dark, when the Regiment was ordered into position in the vicinity of Battery No. 37 on the fortifications around Petersburg. Early the next morning, the Brigade was moved to the left and the Regiment placed into position between Batteries No. 34 and 35. About 2 O'clock P.M. June 21^st orders were received to move in the direction of Ream's Station. At a distance of about (3) three miles from Petersburg, a halt was ordered and a line of works commenced. But before the works were completed, orders were received to move back to the original position, where it remained until about 12 O'clock June 22^nd when Wilcox's Division was ordered to the rear

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of the enemy's left flank, to feel his position. At about 2 O'clock P.M. the Regiment with the Brigade formed into line and was ordered to advance. After moving forward about one mile, it came up with and drove in the enemy's line of skirmishers, capturing some prisoners and losing (3) three men killed & wounded. Soon after this the Regiment was recalled and ordered to support Wright's Georgia Brigade of Anderson's Division, who had assaulted and taken a line of the enemys works while the demonstration above mentioned was being made. A little after dark these works were abandoned and the troops holding them withdrawn and marched back to the position they had previously occupied. The Regiment remained in line before Petersburg often changing its position until the night of the 2^nd of July when it was ordered to the north side of the James River here it went into position a little above New Market heights, and enjoyed a season of quiet and rest until the 27^th of July when the enemy having thrown a heavy force on the north side of the James, endeavored to drive in our skirmishers. Col Barry, then commanding the Brigade while riding along the skirmish line, was wounded. Of the conduct of the officers and men of the Regiment throughout this laborous Campaign I cannot say too much. All have undergone with unflinching patriotism, every species of hardship, and met cheerfully, with the unyielding determination of true Sons of the South

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every effort of the enemy to advance. Where all have acted so uniformly well it is extremely difficult to particularize. But I cannot pass unmentioned the good conduct of private Christopher McAuslin of Co "E" and James Hartman of Co "D." At the commencement of this Campaign Private McAuslin was detailed as an Ambulance driver, (which detail had been given him in consideration of previous good conduct) But preferring to share the hardship and danger with his Comrades in the line, he asked to be relieved from duty as a [teamster] and to be returned to his Company. His request being granted, he shouldered his musket, and has bravely performed his duty, was slightly wounded at Jericho Ford and severely wounded at Turkey Ridge on the 2^nd of June, from the effects of which, he is not suffering. Hartman was a drummer but after the loss sustained by the Regiment at Spottsylvania Court House, on the 12^th May he voluntarily laid aside his Drum, and has since that time discharged his duty as a Soldier with Conspicuous gallantry. It has been his custom since he has been in the service, at the commencement of each Campaign to exchange his drum for his Musket. Having done so in the Campaign of /63, and at the battle of Gettysburg Pa. Was severely wounded and fell into the hands of the enemy.

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I am very much indebted to 1^st Lieut W.H. McLaurin (Adjt) for the able and efficient assistance he has rendered in every engagement since the commencement of the Campaign exposing himself in the hour of danger or and by his calm and chivalrous bearing, furnished an example well worthy of being intimated. I also beg leave to call your attention to the good conduct of Ensign Jno. O. Frink. In the engagement of the 5^th and 6^th May, his conduct was such as to elicit the enconiums of all who witnessed it. The Casualties since the commencement of the Campaign to 27^th July are as the following statement will show
 

I have the honor to be Capt very
Respectfully
Your Obdt Servant
W.M. McGill
Lt Col Comdg 18^th N.C.T.

Headquarters 28th NCT
July 19, 1864

Captain E.J. Hale, Jr.
A.A. General

I beg leave to make the following report of the part taken by my Regiment in the different engagements commencing May 5 up to July 2, 1864. The Regiment has been in so many different battles, skirmishers, and in this campaign that you will excuse me for condensing this report, also for including them in one.

My Regiment left camp at Liberty Mills where we had spent the [next few words obscured by page crease] of May /64 with the Brigade, we marched down the Plank Road leading to Fredericksburg and camped for the night near the battle field of Mine Run. We left camp early next morning, 5th May, and continued our march down the Plank Road. About 10 a.m. skirmishing commenced in our front and to the right of the road. We marched on and soon skirmishing on the left of the road. I received orders from General lane to deploy skirmishers on the left of the road to protect my Regiment as we moved on. In this manner I moved forward. I came into a field near by where the battle of the Wilderness was fought. Here my Regiment filed off to the left along a country road, through some fields, across a little stream into a piece of woods, halted, formed line of battle. My Regiment being on the right of the Brigade, my left resting on the right of the 18th NCT. [We] moved forward through a piece of woods and assisted in capturing some 150 or 200 prisoners. I then moved to the left flank after the Brigade back to the road we came until I came near to the Plank Road where I inclined to the left and struck the Plank Road near the battle field. By order of General Lane I countermarched my Regiment, filed to the right of the P.R., through the woods, after the 18th NCT. Having gone some distance in this (easterly) direction, I was halted and formed line of battle with my right on the left of the 18th NCT and my left on the right of the 33rd NCT. I here got orders from General Lane that when my Regiment came to General McGowan's brigade in line, that I would halt. The fighting in front was now very heavy. I moved forward with the brigade, came to General Scales' line of battle, which was now engaged with the enemy. My Regiment gallantly moved forward though an almost impassable swamp of mud, briers and bushes, but nothing _________. My men charged forward, driving the enemy from his third line of defenses. Having by this time passed beyond the swamp in the face of a terrific fire from the enemy, diving him at all points, I was here told [?] by Captain Lovell and Adjt Folger that I had no support on my right flank and that the enemy was firing into my flank and seeing I was over 200 yards in front of any support on my left flank, I halted my Regiment at the works above mentioned. My men still continued to give the enemy their destructive fire. By this time it was quite dark and my men out of ammunition. I ordered them to procure ammunition from the _______ _______, which was ______ _____ finding I had no _______ ________ _______ ______ _________ force, I ordered my Regiment to fall back, which was done in good order, some [number obscured by page crease] yards where I halted and reformed, put out my scouts at which time the Adjt of the 33rd NCT came to see who I was after which Colonel Avery brought up his Regiment (33rd NCT) and joined on mine. In this condition I sent to General Lane for orders, but before I got orders from him I found the enemy cautiously moving up in heavy force, when Colonel Avery and myself fell back further and halted and awaited orders. At this point we got orders about 11 o'clock p.m. to come out and join the balance of the Brigade, then up on the P.R., where we arrived and took our positions in line among the rest of the Regiments of the Brigade and where the men spent the balance of the night.

In this battle I cannot say total much for my men and officers. Each seemed to vie with his companions in arms in deeds of valor. My Regiment went further than any other had gone or did go. I never did better. Captain Lovell of Co. "A" acted as my major and did his part nobly. My Adjt R.S. Folger acted very gallantly through all the action, likewise my company officers.

May the Sixth (6th). This morning fund us all "closed in mass," the 18th & 37th NCT were in front with the 7th NCT between my Regiment and the front line above mentioned. General Scales' Brigade being in line of battle in the front, was suddenly attacked by an overwhelming force and gave way. This caused a ________ stampede among the troops in rear, causing the whole to fall back in rather a disorderly manner. However, with the assistance of my officers I succeeded in reforming my Regiment some distance back on the P.R., where the Brigade was formed. I then moved back on the P.R. with the Brigade, took the left and went into the field where we went before the battle of the 5th. Here we spent the remainder of the day in fortifying a new line. On this line my Regiment slept for the night.

May 7th. This day was spent in strengthening out line and shifting positions.

May 8th. This morning, it being ascertained that the enemy were moving to our right, we commenced moving about 2 p.m. and marched till late in the night, when we camped and cooked rations before day.

May 9th. We took up line of march early this morning and arrived [a few words lost through a page tear] at Spotsylvania at 12 M when we formed line of battle, my right resting on the 18th NC and my left on General Walker's Brigade, and fortified.

May 10th. This morning our Brigade moved along the line, my left resting in an angle of the works for to the left of the Brick Kiln, my left resting on the right of General R.B. Johnston's Brigade, my right still upon the 18th NC. This Brigade moved to the left _____ _____ _____ _____ ________ _________ ______ _______ _______ ______ ______ ______ ______ _____ ______ at the top of a hill. Here the Regiment spent the day, until late in the evening when I was moved into the Brigade by the right flank up the road to near where we [next few words obscured by a page crease] by an assault of the enemy, but not being needed, we moved back to our old position and rested for the night.

May 11th. To day my Regiment moved to the left three different times and entrenched itself until late in the day. Late in the day it rested in a line of old works across a ravine. Here we slept for the night.

May 12. This morning found my Regiment in the works at an early hour, with my left resting on General Steuart's (of Johnson's Division) right. General Lane rode up the line at day light and as Johnson's Div was attacked he told me that I must hold my position and then rode to the right of my Regiment. This was just at dawn of day, when General Johnson was attacked. His lines were instantly broken, which let the enemy to [next few words obscured by a page crease] well as to my front. I found the troops on my left flying in utter confusion in every direction, found the enemy coming down the works on both sides. I hastened to the right of my Regiment and informed General Lane of the facts. He ordered me to move out my Regiment by the right flank. I hastened to the left, gave the orders, my men still in the works. By this time the enemy, being on by sides of my Regiment, my men left as best they could. I lost 113 men as prisoners. I succeeded in rallying a portion of my men with Colonel Cowan's in an arm of the works to the right, on the top of the hill. Here took place one of the most desperate fights for the time of the war. The stubborn fight made here by Lane's Brigade certainly saved the day, and I am happy to say that my Regiment did her part well. After the fighting at this place was over, I moved by the right with the Brigade on a line running north from the Brick Kiln. Here I was not able to get on the line for want of room. My Regiment was in reserve until late in the evening, when the Brigade moved in front of the works with General Mahone's to take a battery. A line of battle was formed with Lane's Brigade in front in a piece of woods. My Regiment was on the left of the Brigade, my right resting on the 18th NC. We moved by the right flank to the proper position, when we were halted, fronted and moved forward. In this charge my Regiment behaved most gallantly. Some of my men were very close to the battery when General Lane gave the order to fall back. My Regiment took more prisoners then I had men engaged. Lieutenants L.A. Todd and J.M. Starling, the former of Co. "I," the later of "F," were captured with several ______ and then mistaken by our own men, capturing their captors. Some of my men fought with any thing they could get hold of. The Regiment then came out to the works in front of the Court House. Here we formed again and moved to the works then vacated and with my right on the left of the 33rd NC, and my left on the 37th NC. Here we drew rations and rested for the night, which was very desirable, after so as hard a days work as we had done.

May 13th. This morning we moved to the left along the line some distance where we halted and spent the day strengthening our works. The 14[th], 15[th], 16[th] were [spent] in like manner. On the night of the 16th my Regiment was relieved by one of General McGowan's Regiments, after which I moved my Regiment to the rear of the second line near the Brick Kiln and rested for the night.

The 18th was spent in this position. On the 19th I moved to the left with the Brigade and formed on a second line as support to General Gordon, my left resting on the right of the 18th while my right on the 33rd NC. I then fortified under a heavy shelling. On the 19th we moved back tot he right into the field to await orders, while General Ewell was on his flank move. At dark my Regiment being on the left of the Brigade moved by the left flank along the works to the extreme left on the line to a portion of the works then vacated by General Ewell's Corps, where I spent the night. Before day on the morning of the 20th moved back to the right and spent the day.

On the 21st we moved back to the right to the position on the line occupied formerly by General Gordon's Brigade, from this position moved by the right flank along the works to a church south of the C.H., where we filed to the left, passed beyond the works, formed line of battle and with my right on the road, my left resting on the 33rd NCT, and charged through the woods capturing the Yankee breastworks. In this charge my men acted well. I lost Lieutenant Ed S. Edwards, Co. "G," one of my best officers and had _____ ______ wounded. My Regiment then came out to the road at the church and moved down the road toward the Central [Railroad], N.B. above Hanover Junction. We marched till 2 o'clock a.m.

Morning of the 22nd the line of march was resumed at 4 1/2 o'clock a.m. and was kept up at a very rapid gait until the Central R.R. was reached. Here we took up camp near Bramall's Station, eight (8) miles above the Junction. On the morning of the 23rd the march was resumed, moving along the R.R. to near Anderson's [?] crossing, where we filed to the left with the Brigade and went in close to the River where the Regiment rested till in the evening, when it moved up the R.R. with the Brigade, formed line of battle, with my left resting upon General McGowan's right, the line moving at the right angles with the R.R. The enemy not advancing here, the Regiment [two words obscured by page smear] formed in battle order parallel to the R.R., my left on General McGowan's Brigade. The Regiment then moved forward, drive in the enemy's pickets and attacked the enemy's main line in the woods, where the Regiment fought till dark closed the scene. The Regiment displayed its usual good conduct. We then fell back to the farm [?] at the edge of the woods with the rest of the Brigade, where we rested until relieved by one of General Davis' Regiments (of Heth's Div). My Regiment moved back to the R Road with the Brigade, halted for a while, then moved down the R.R. with the Brigade to the Anderson House and halted for the remainder of the night. On the 24th May the Regiment built heavy breastworks. On 25th the Regiment was moved back in reserve and fortified. Was under a very heavy fire [from] shelling. On the 26th it remained in the same position. On the 27th of May, at 2 p.m., the Regiment moved off by the Ashland road, marched till 10 p.m. and camped for the night in one mile of Ashland. On the 28th we marched very rapidly all day, took up camp east of Atlee's Station on the Va. Central R.R. with two miles of Mechanicsville.

On 29th, late in the day, the Regiment moved back with the Brigade and camped in rear of General Heth's Div. On the 30th the Regiment formed line of battle, my left resting on the 18th NC, my right on the 33rd NC. Here the Regiment threw up strong lines of works. On the 31st the Regiment moved to the right, took position in a line of works on Stones' farm, my right on General Thomas's Brigade, my left on the 33rd [?] N.C. Here the Regiment was exposed to a most terrific shelling and did a heavy skirmishing all day. I lost here five men. At night the Regiment moved back with the Brigade to a second line and fortified.

June 1st was spent here behind the works. The men were glad to get rest as they had worked all night. June 2nd. We took up line of march by the right flank and marched to Gaines' Mill. Here we fortified, then moved by the right flank to the right of General Breckinridge's Div, where the Regiment formed line of battle, charged and took Turkey Ridge [,] where we formed line of battle with my right on General Thomas's Brigade, my left on the 37th NC. Here the Regiment threw up strong works. From this time up to June the 13th at eight o'clock a.m. was spent in these works making them stronger and making themselves as comfortable as the nature of the case would admit. _____ _____ sharp shooters at this place. I lost two men killed, and five men wounded by enfilade shots. On the 13th at 5 a.m. my Regiment took up the line of march, crossing the Chickahominy at McClellan's Bridge and _____ the march across the York River R.R. to the Charles City road [?], where the Regiment filed down the road to the left. Marched some distance, formed line of battle at right angles to the road in support of General Scales' Brigade. Moved forward some distance, then moved by the right flank and filed to the left down the road some distance. Filed to the right, formed line again and moved forward as support to General McGowan's Brigade. My Regiment was on the extreme right of our Brigade. Moved forward till I came up with McGowan's Brigade. Filed to the right and formed line of battle with the Brigade and commenced fortifying. From this position the Regiment moved forward in a charge some mile and a half. After dark my right came in close proximity to the enemy's line. Here I was ordered by the Brigade Commander to halt and deflect back my right Regiment to protect the flank of the Brigade, which was done. Some time in the night the Regiment moved back by the left flank and took position formerly occupied by it near Mr. Nelson's house. In this position we spent the 14th.

On the 15th of June I moved with my Regiment with the Brigade to the front on a new line to the left of General Thomas, with my right resting on his left and fortified a new line. On the 16th I moved back to my old position at Nelson's House. On the 17th, at 4 p.m. the Regiment took up the line of march for Darbytown, where we camped for the night.

Early on the 18th the Regiment commenced the march for Petersburg, crossing the James River at Drewry's Bluff, arriving at Petersburg at 6 o'clock p.m. The Regiment performed one of the hardest and most disagreeable marches it ever has. We passed through the city to the works south of the city, near by and on the east side of the R.R. and rested for the night. On the 19th I took position in the works, then moved to the left until my left rested upon General Mahone's right on the Wilcox Farm, my right on the 18th NCT. Here we remained till the 21st when the Regiment moved to the right flank out the Rail Road and marched down the road to assist [?] some Cavalry. At dark the Regiment moved back to its former position. On the 22nd the Regiment moved again to the right and front to help execute a flank move upon the enemy. After marching some distance, it halted, formed line of battle, moved forward through as many natural difficulties as I ever saw, soon came on the enemy's skirmishers, fought them, drove them in and took some 40 prisoners, was under a heavy fire in which I lost some good men. Moved out of the woods by the left flank, formed in a field, was under some shelling. [A few words are obscured by page stains and a crease here} forward to support General Wright's Brigade then engaged. From this place after dark the Regiment moved back to its former position.

On the morning of the 23rd my Regiment moved by the left flank along the works to relieve a portion of General Finnegan's Brigade. In going to my position I suffered much. My Regiment deserves much praise for the manner in which it took its position in this very disagreeable and dangerous position. My Regiment held till the 26th, when I was relieved by one of General McGowan's Regiments. My men suffered here from almost every thing as well as shot and shell. I lost 7 men killed and 16 wounded. Captain James M. Conkle[?], Co "K," than whom no braver man carried a sword in defense of Southern rights, was killed in the still darkness of the night, about the hour of (11) eleven. His life was sacrificed at the hands of a ruthless invader. On the 24th I moved my Regiment out in rear of the Brigade, then in General Connor's position, where the Regiment rested till the 1st July, then I moved up the works. On the night of the 2nd July my Regiment moved off and marched all night, crossing the James River at Chaffin's Bluff on the 3rd July and took position below the bluff on a farm near Four Mile Creek. Never has my Regiment displayed more conspicuous gallantry than in this campaign, fighting and marching have been accomplished without murmuring, fatigue and privations have been admitted with particular[?] endurance. As martyrs to the cause of freedom, I have to announce the names of Captain T.O. Clark, Co. "G," a Christian and patriot; Captain James M. Crowell, Co. "K," a colossus of genuine bravery, Lieutenants E.S. Edwards, Co. "G," and S.J.[?] Cashman[?], Co. "B," both brave and gallant spirits, besides 32 enlisted men, with 121 wounded and 132 missing. Of the missing 113 were captured on the 12th May. To[o] much honor and praise cannot be bestowed upon my fine officers for their gallantry. I had no field officers to assist me in the campaign. Captains Lovell & Linebarger rendered valuable assistance and to them and my Adjt R.S. Folger I owe much and cannot do them the ample justice they so richly merit from me and their country.

I am Captain, very respectfully your obt servant,
W.H.A. Speer, Lt. Colonel. Com'dg

Hd Qrs. 33^rd N.C. Troops
July 9^th 1864

Capt

I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the 33^rd North Carolina Regt in the different battles skirmishes & marches from May 4^th to July 3^rd 1864

The Thirty Third North Carolina Regiment (Col. C.M. Avery Commg) left camp near Liberty Mills Va on the 4^th of May 1864 and marched down the Fredericksburg Plank Road to a point near Viviensville where we halted and bivouacked for the night. The next morning the march having been resumed we continued along the same road until we came to a point near the old battle ground of the Wilderness where we with the Brigade filed to the left and after having marched some distance across a small stream and assisting in the capture of three or four hundred prisoners we returned to the main road and proceeded down it to where fighting was then going on. Near Sun-down we were thrown into line of battle on the right of the Plank Road and ordered to advance until we came to Genl McGowan's Brigade when we were to halt and support it. It was now quite dark and the advance was rendered quite difficult by the dense undergrowth and the wet marshy ground through which we had to pass. We continued however to advance still thinking that McGowan was between us & the enemy. But we soon discovered that there was no one in our front but the enemy, and we commenced firing upon them and drove them fifty or one hundred yards where we remained occasionally engaging the enemy until late at night when we were

[Page 2]

ordered with other Regts of the brigade to fall back

In this action we lost
Officers:   [ ] Killed, [ ] Wounded, [ ] Missing
Men:  [ ] Killed, [ ] Wounded, [ ] Missing

After passing over in our retrograde movement a line of battle protected by temporary breastworks & which had skirmishers between themselves & where we were) we came to where other troops were and which I think were in line of battle also. We halted & bivouacked on or near the Plank Road for the night.

About daylight next morning Genl Lane ordered this Regt to connect its right with the left of another regiment of the Brigade (I think it was the 18^th) thus forming one half of it (the right wing) perpendicular to & the other half or left wing parallel to the Plank Road.

Scarcely had we formed in this manner when the troops in front of us were attacked and in a short time were driven in. The enemy was soon upon us. Here Col C.M. Avery was wounded while passing up & down the line cheering the men by his presence and urging them to stand firm. While going from the field he was wounded in several places one of which wounds proved mortal. Very soon after Col. Avery was wounded we were compelled to retreat with the balance of the brigade. When we had fallen back several hundred yards, near to where a battery was [posted] on the left of the Plank Road [I] halted a [portion] [of my command] and reported to Col. Barry he being the [senior] officer present. [I] was ordered on the left of the road, and [ ] to follow the brigade of Genl McGowan the remainder of the regiment went further to the rear & moved with the brigade.

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As directed I followed McGowan's Brigade and went some distance on a road to the left of the Plank Road and advanced some distance through the woods but afterwards returned to the place where we joined the brigade, it having come up We afterward through up breastworks but had no more fighting

Lost -- Officers:  3 Killed, 5 Wounded, - Missing
Men:  15 Killed, 51 Wounded, 38 Missing

On the 7^th we lay in the trenches without fighting On the 8^th we commenced the march to Spotsylvania Court House where we arrived at 12 M on the 9^th of May and threw up breastworks in front of the Court House We rested here until next morning. The 10^th we then moved to left some distance until we came near Johnston's Brigade Here we remained until the next morning, May 11^th, when we moved further to the left so as to connect with Johnston's Division and threw up breastworks behind which we stayed until the 12^th. About daylight on the morning of the 12^th the enemy attacked Johnston's Division and broke through it. Soon after this members of the two regiments on my left (the 18^th & 28^th) commenced passing by me saying that they were flanked I remained in the works however until Col. Barry 18^th N.C. came by and informed me that the enemy was on my flank and would soon be in my rear. Without waiting for orders I immediately ordered the men out & formed them in a short ditch on a line with the 37^th Regt and extending its line to the left. Here I waited for the enemy to approach which he did in a very short time. As soon as he approached we opened fire upon him & drove him back and also

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in every attempt he made to advance. After inforcements had come up I was ordered by Brig. Genl. Lane to advance upon the enemy which I did with other regiments of the brigade. After going some distance we were ordered back and formed in the edge of the woods in rear of the works previously held by us & which were now held by some other troops. After remaining here some time we were put into the works further to the right near a brick Kiln. In the afternoon I was ordered to take charge of the 33^rd and 7^th Regts. & go over the works & ascertain whether the enemy had a line of battle in front of us. I did as directed and was afterwards ordered to attack it when Genl lane came up with the ballance of the brigade and formed by Mahone's brigade. We immediately advanced but did not go far before encountering the enemy. As soon as we commenced firing upon the enemy Mahone's Brigade which was in rear commenced firing upon us, thinking, I suppose, that we were the enemy. This was farther to the left than the 33^rd & therefore it was not hurt by the fire from the rear. After driving the enemy across the branch & beyond the battery the Regt fell back with the other Regts. of the brigade. It was formed in the field near a house & then marched back to the works in front of the Court House where we remained until next morning May 13^th

Lost -- Officers: - Killed, 2 Wounded, - Missing
Men:  4 Killed, 15 Wounded, 15 Missing

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From this time to the 21^st we occupied different positions along the line but had no more fighting. About 4 o'clock P.M. of that day we marched by the court house and near a church where we filed to the left and after going some distance formed line of battle faced by the rear rank and advanced against the enemys works carrying them and capturing some prisoners. In a short time we were ordered back to the church and commenced the march to Hanover Junction marching with little rest until we reached the Central Rail Road eight miles from the Junction about 4 o'clock on the 22^nd. Here we remained till the next morning 23^rd May. On that day we marched to within three miles of the Junction & bivouacked near the river until about 4 P.M. when we were marched back to meet the enemy at Jericho Ford. We advanced and attacked the enemy in the woods driving them [before] us. After going some distance the regiment on my right ran away but I remained where I was until the regiment on my left also commenced retreating. I then gave orders to fall back to the edge of the woods where we reformed and again advanced. The same regiment on my right again ran away but I waited until the one on my left had retreated out of the woods when I again gave orders to fall back. Immediately after having given this order I received orders from Genl Lane to fall back & form in the field. After forming we advanced to the edge of the woods & remained there until ordered away about 11 o'clock at night when we marched back to the Rail Road & from there to the Junction where we

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remained until *June 27^th. On Friday 27^th May commenced marching towards Mechanicsville crossing the Central Rail Road at Atlees Station. We halted near the Rail Road where we remained throwing up breastworks until 31^st May when we moved to Storr's Farm. Casualties were 2 killed and had a skirmish with the enemy one man killed - Fell back at night & threw up works & remained here till June 3^rd moved towards Gaine's Mills & took position on Turkey Ridge near a house where Genl Lane was wounded. We remained here skirmishing every day with the enemy until the 13^th. Early on the 13^th found the enemy had disappeared from our front and we commenced the march to Riddle's Shop where we arrived that afternoon, and forming in line of battle, moved down the road supporting other troops. After going some distance we were halted & ordered to throw up breast works which was done. About night we advanced in line of battle one or two miles & did not return until nearly daylight. We remained in the neighborhood on Riddles Shop without any fighting until the night of the 17^th we then took up the line of march for Petersburg where we arrived about dark the next evening.

On the 22^nd June we marched to the right & down the Rail Road for some distance & there filed off on a left hand road. After following this road for some miles we were formed in line of battle, our right connecting with the left of Scales Brigade and by the movement of which we had orders to be governed. In this position we advanced and finally came upon & attacked the enemy in his fortifications. After fighting

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some time an order came down the line of Scales Brigade to retreat. After Scales' men had gone I ordered the Regt to face about & marched it slowly off

Loss -- Officers:  - Killed, 2 Wounded, - Missing
Men:  4 Killed, 20 Wounded, 4 Missing

We marched back to the breastworks that night & remained along them until the night of the 2^nd July. On July 2^nd about 8 o'clock P.M. we started to Chaffin's Bluff, where we arrived after marching all night and till 12 o'clock the next day.

I am Capt.
Very Respectfully
Your obdt. Servant
R.V. Cowan
Lt Col Comdg Regt

[To:] Capt E.J. Hale Jr.
A.A. Genl

[*Believe the Lt Col meant to write May 27^th instead of June 27^th]

Head Qtrs 37^th N.C.T.
Sept 8^th 1864 AD
Capt E.J. Hale
A.A.G.

Captain

I respectfully submit the following report of the operations of my regiment in the battles of the Wilderness and Spottsylvania Courthouse. On the morning of the 5^th May my regiment in accordance with orders from Brig Gen. Lane was deployed to the left of the plank road to guard against an expected attack from that quarter. Subsequently I moved forward some distance by order Major Gen Wilcox & halted. My regiment was not engaged on the 5^th except some little skirmishing. After the engagement was at an end I was directed to move to the right of the road at which point I was subsequently joined by the other regiments of the Brigade. During the night the Brigade remained in rear of and very near to Scales' Brigade. In our rear was Gen Walker's Brigade of Heth's Division. Very early the next morning the enemy attacked us in front & simultaniously in our left flank. Finding that any effort to hold my position as the lines were arranged would result in the destruction of my command I withdrew and soon reformed my regiment. Officers and men behaved well. After this my regiment was moved to different points along the line and my skirmishers were at times engaged. My loss at the Wilderness was 37 killed wounded and missing.

After the regiment reached Spotsylvania court house, I threw up a line of works but was subsequently moved to a position in the woods some distance to the left of the court house. On the morning of the 12^th the enemy succeeded in breaking Johnson's lines which necessitated a change of front of the Brigade. As my regiment was the right of the Brigade it was only necessary to [ ] the left company in which the other regiments of the Brigade were speedily informed by Gen Lane. The enemy charged our position vigorously but was driven back with heavy loss. At the same time the enemy attacked me in front but owing to the nature of the ground their attack I thought was feeble. In the evening we crossed our works & moved into the woods near the Angle to the left of the Courthouse and charged a battery of the enemy which we captured [ ] with a large number of prisoners. My regiment captured two stands of colors (the 17^th Michigan & fifty first Pennsylvania & a considerable number of prisoners.

My command was immediately in front of the battery and suffered quite heavily from canister. My loss was as follows:

4 officers killed
18 men killed
5 officers wounded
37 men wounded
2 officers missing
34 men missing

Total Loss one hundred

Lt. B.A. Johnston CoC Lt. E.A. Carter CoA & Lt. C.T. [ ] CoB & Sergt Major C.T. Wright. Their loss must be severely felt. None were more attentive to duty - none were more upright in their conduct - none more gallant on the battlefield. My regiment behaved gallantly marching up to the battery of six guns & [ ] beyond. In accordance with orders I withdrew my command but was myself captured in falling back by a body of the enemy who had advanced on our breastworks while we made the flank movement.

Respectfully submitted
Will. M. Barbour
Capt 37^th N.C.T.

Hd Qrs 37^th N.C.T.
Sept 8^th 1864
Capt E.J. Hale Jr.
A.A. Gen.

Capt. I respectfully submit the following report. After the capture of Col Barbour on the 12^th of May at Spottsylvania, the Regt was not actively engaged at that place, however, on the 21^st the Regt with the Brigade was in what is termed a "Seining Expedition" to ascertain the strength of the enemy which was done with little loss, which was added to a previous report of Col Barbour. At "Jerico Ford" 23^rd May the Regt was engaged sharply with considerable loss for some three hours, until night came on when the Brigade fell back. Casualties 22. At "Turkey Hill" June 2^nd the Regt was in the charge to gain possession of that important position, and suffered some while there in the breastworks from stray balls. Casualties 15. June 13^th the Regt with the Brigade marched to "Fraziers Farm" but was not actively engaged besides its skirmishers. On 18^th June the Regt marched to Petersburg about 25 miles where it remained on the front line. O the 22^nd the Regt with the Brigade was in another one of the Seining Expeditions to feel the strength of the enemy on the "Jerusalem Plank Road," found him in strong force, entrenched, Captured a few skirmishers, with little loss. Late on the same evening the Regt & Brigade was moved farther to the left to support Gen. Mahone, and under a shower of Artillery and Musketry but sustained no heavy loss. Casualties at Petersburg from June 19^th to 2^nd July amount to Ten (10). On the night of the 2^nd July & next morning the Regt marched from Petersburg to "Deep Bottom," where until the 28^th the regt except skirmishing had comparatively a quiet time. Casualties from 2^nd to 27^th July Five (5). Officers wounded Three. Men Killed four, wounded thirty six, missing nine. Total fifty two.

I have the honor to be most
respectfully your Obdt servant
J.S. Bost Maj
37^th N.C.T.

--Transcriptions made by Terri Stout-Stevens, Pfafftown, NC, in 1997 and 1998.  Edited by Marty Olliff, Assistant Archivist, Auburn University, who takes responsibilty for all errors.

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