The Diary of Michael Reid Hanger

Rockbridge Rifles, Company H, 4th and 5th Virginia Infantry

April 18th-October 30th, 1861

This diary was edited by Robert Driver, and made available to this project by the Augusta County Historical Society. Unless otherwise noted, all comments are Mr. Drivers.

We are indebted to Ray and Cindy Ledgerwood of Pullman, Washington for making this diary available. Harold Howard of Lynchburg, realizing it would be of local interest, sent me a copy of this valuable manuscript.

Michael Reid Hanger was born in Staunton, Virginia on May 10, 1840. He was working as a carpenter in Lexington in 1860. he enlisted in the "Rockbridge Rifles" in Lexington on April 18, 1861, in response to Governor John Letcher's call for volunteers to defend Virginia. The "rockbridge Rifles" had been organized as part of the militia in 1859, following John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry. Captain Samuel Houston Letcher, brother of the governor, was captain of the company from its origin and led it into Virginai service in 1861.

The "Rifles," 103 strong, assembled in front of the courthouse in Lexington on April 18th to be sworn in. The new soldiers had drawn their arms and equipment from the state arsenal at the V.M.I.

A reporter for the Lexington Gazette described the ceremony:

"When all was ready, after bidding adieu to friends and relatives, the Rifles were formed in front of the Court House, where Rev. Mr. Tebbs[2] stood prepared to call upon the Lords of Hosts for his protecting care under the trying circumstances in which they were soon to be placed. All heads were uncovered while the men of God appealed to the God of battle, to bless those who had left their wives and children, fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, to go forth in defense of rights bestowed upon us by our fathers of the revolution, and to protect and defend them from those who instigated by folly and wickedness, would deprive us of our dearly prized institutions. All hearts were softened, all eyes were moistened by the tear of sorrow for the necessitation of the case. Every soldier was determined, if need be, to stand to the last, and die in a cause so just and a service so honorable."

Another added: "The pomp and circumstancesof glorious war were present when on that bright spring morning [this] company, with colors flying and martial music, took up the line of march from Lexington to Harpers Ferry. His [Elisha F. Paxton's][3] young wife with sad forebodings, wept until her handkerchief was wet with tears. In their last fond embrace he took this from her hand and as a reminder of her love carried it on many a bloody battlefield.

Cadet A. C. S. Greenwood wrote: ". . . the Rifle Company started today at one o'clock they passed the institute and [we] saluted them. . . ."

Young Hanger begins his diary:

the April 18 1861

We left Lexingtom at 1 oclock PM in stages [sic] - hacks - Waggons We got to Fairfield at sunset I took supper at Mr. McCormicks[5][,] Marston [7] & myself eat at Mr Dr Hameltons

the April 19

we got to Staunton this morning put up at the Va House got breakfast and Asbury McCluerer[10] Samuel Charlton[12] went back to the Hotel and in A few moments we started out was Escorted out of town with the band of musick & we all got aboard of stages hacks and prseeded to Mt Sidney got there at dark. Sargent Campbell[14] & John Edmondson

the April 20th

We left Mt Sidney this morning for Harrisonburg had quite a nice time of it all day got to Mount Crawford at 12 AM the Rockbridge Cavalry[17] & many others that U knew--we went on got to Harrisonburg at 4pm marched into the Court House & then we devided our for different places for to stay all night Mr. Varner Bailey[19] & my self went to Mr Effingers[21] and Misses Smith[23] came in and we had A good time generally.

April the 21st

Beautifull morning this Mr. Fonshill Reilly & myself went to take leave of our lady Acquaintences they were so verry Agreeable that I hated verry much to part with them though we bid them Adieu and took the coach for Mt Jackson

[Before departing the company was presented a flag by the ladies of Harrisonburg. Robert H. Campbell described the banner as representing the "Confederate States, with a star for Virginia in the center."]

had a pleasant time all day Reached Mt Jackson at sun set Mr. Tanquary

April 22nd

[Here Hanger failed to write in his diary for a considerable period and later brought it up to date about June 23rd. For some reason his spelling became much improved.]

At 8 o'clock this morning we took the Cars, and came on to Strasburg for [from] here we walked to Winchester, a distance of 18 miles. We here stoped at the Taylor House, and staid all night and in morning took the Harpers Ferry and Winchester R.R.. Passed by edge of Charlstown [sic], and came on to the Ferry. We quartered in the Armory, amongst machinery. We remained here for a week or so, and then went on the Maryland Heights, and staid 1 day and a night, and got a pretty good ducking. We then came back to the Armory, staid there about 1 week, and then moved to Bolivar. staid there week or so, and then went to Va Heights, we here knocked up some old shandies and went to cutting down trees and cleaning up generally. burning brush &c. We cleared off about 30 acres of land and built one Block house. We were in one of the greatest Hail storms I ever saw. The stones were as large as partridge eggs the ground was covered, an inch deep. it cut our shanties down and left us in the storm. We staid here 10 days and then came back to Bolivar. The next place we went to was Martinsburg on the B. & O. R.R. We had a glorious time here, though it was a great Union place. the ladies sent us everything we could wish, and presented us with thousands of Bouquets. We spent a very happy time here certain. We were here about 1 week and started back to Ferry, and burned a bridge (Opequon) on the B. & O. R>R> about 2 1/2 miles from Martinsburg. We came back to Bolivar, but didn't tarry long. We were in Martinsburg during election. We were quartered in Grantham Hall). We again started and went to Shepherds-town, from there to the Neck or (Shepherd's Bend,) about 5 miles from the town. We saw some of the enemy, with red caps and blue uniform. I shot at one of them, and all say I certainly killed him. We were quartered in an old barn all night. The next day we moved back about 1 mile to Mr. Chapman's house. I was then ordered to go on Picquet. to Dam No. 4. We soon got orders to move. We all came back to Shepherd's town joined the Regt. [5th Va. Infantry] and that night. came to Charlestown. about 11 o'clock that night, and camped in the Fairgrounds. Early the next morning we started to Wonchester, and got there about 9 o'clock at night and camped in the Fairgrounds. the 2nd day we were ordered to march to Martinsburg, but hearing of the enemy crossing the [Potomac] River, and overtaking Col. Johnston[25] with 6 or 8 Regts at Bunker's Hill. we halted and there formed 1 line of battle. As we heard nothing of the enemy, we returned together with the other Regts to Winchester. We here staid all night, and the next eveneing started again for Martinsburg. We traveled that evening 14 miles, and as the Companies were very much fatigued & c, we camped for the night at Bucklestown, alias, Darksville [Darkesville] 6 miles from Martinsburg. We camped all night out side the town a piece. In the morning came on through Martinsburg 4 miles below, on the road and here camped (Camp Stevens)

Camp Stevens June 23rd Sunday 1861

Was to hear Rev Dr Pendleton[27] preach at our quarters.

June 24th Monday

Still here at Camp 4 miles from town. We resumed Bat" [Battalion] and Co" [Company] Drills this morning.

June 25th Tuesday

Beautiful day. Our baggage was sent to us from Winchester

June 26th Wednesday

Cloudy this morning, looks like rain. Jim Holley is talking of going home today. 5 o'clock, we had a considerable shower this evening, and the wind blew very hard.

June 27th Thursday

Fine morning. One of Kirkpatrick's

June 28th Friday

Had Battalion drill this morning as [usua[l] {corner torn} Fine pleasent day. Very warm

June 29th Saturday

There were only 15 men out on drill this morning at 10. o'clock

June 30th Sunday

No battalion drill this morning. Cloudy this morning, looks like rain. Cleaned our guns this morning for Inspection. 11 o'clock it is now raining right hard. We have to lay in our blanket rag houses. Pay roll was called this morning.

July 1st Monday

Still cloudy. and I think we will have more rain today. Messrs Laird[30] got Furloughs to go home to day until the 16th.

July 2nd Tuesday

Whilst eating our breakfast this morning we received orders, to pack up &c. and be ready to move in 10 minutes. The West Augusta Guards[32], A. C. McClure,[34]. we all kept up a constant firing. In a short time the enemy began to give way, running &c. We were still firing into them, we advanced then fell back. We repulsed them 3 times, at last they rallied their forces, and commenced to advance we then gave way. Capt. Pendleton then opened of one of his 6 pound cannon on them, but they still continued to advance, the Artillery then also gave way, we retreated on back, to withn 3 miles of Martinsburg, we here took our respective positions again to meet them. but they didn't come on , and we got orders to move on again, So we came on to martinsburg. and camped for the night at the big Spring 2 1/2 miles from town. In our Co. only 2 were wounded. Mr McNamara[35], who was shot in left arm ball glanced and cut his breast considerably Mr. Arthur McCluer[36] got a slight wound on the head from a spent grape shot, it is just a mere sckrah [scratch]. In the W. A. G.s, Jack Doyle[37] received a slight wound from explosion of a shell. One of Capt. Doyl's[38] men was killed, and one Continental[39] under Capt. Avis[40] from Winchester. Balls flew in every direction, the shell passed over our heads, and fell about 50 paces in the rear and exploded, the balls were whiselling in the trees above us in a hurry It is thought that the enemy numbered about 10,000. against us of about 380 men. Col. Jackson[41] says, we did most capitally. Stewarts [42] Cavalry brought in 40 prisoners this morning to martinsburg. 9 more were brought in whilst at Big Spring. One was a Surgeon in Northern army, one Lieut, a cavalry man, and 6 others, privates. I suppose, we had the post of honor in the retreat (the rear).

July 3rd Wednesday

We camped here last night at the Spring 2 1/2 miles from Martinsburg. We were waiting for reinforcements under Johnson [sic], from Winchester We came on from the Spring back to Bucklestown, alias Darksville, and here met Col Johnston and his force numbering I think about 12,000 men. We camped in the same place we did before. Col Johnston's camp is on the end of town towards Winchester his forces have now moved above us next to Martinsburg, in the fields and have divided up into different Companies in different fields, and have taken their positions, and I suppose will camp there the night. We understand that the Yankees are in Martinsburg, there are about 10,000 of them. We took every thing we could carry easily out of our knapsacks, they were talking of burning them, but L. M. Booker[43] is going to take charge of them, and send them to Winchester. Capt. Middleton[44] Came here today.

July 4th Thursday

We stayed here again last night, We are now drawn up in line we don't know which way we are going, thogh I suppose towards Martinsburg. 2 O'clock we have not moved yet, still here. We drew rations this morning for 3 days. and are now cooking 1 days. 6 1/2 o'clock we had battallion drill and Dress parade this evening, we will stay here tonight again.

July 6th Saturday

We had a little rain about 7 o'clock this morning, still cloudy. 5 o'clock our Picquet were driven in this morning. We are now drawn up in line of battle here Pendleton's battery on our left, we remained in line of battle for an hour or two, and finding that the Yankess were not coming, we retired from the field, and went to cooking supper. Col. Johnston reviewed us whilst in line of battle

July 5th Friday

I made a slight mistake here. This ought to have come before the above. 6 o'clock got up this morning at 3 o'clock. and got breakfast. and packed our blankets. and put them in the wagon, and sent it off towards Winchester 8. o'clock. 2 more prisoners were brought in just now. 9 o'clock 3 more were brought in. they have all been sent to Winchester

July 7th Sunday

9. o'clock, we are now drawn up and I think we are going to Winchester, though it is hard to tell. It is very warm this morning. ll o'clock. we are now at Bunkers Hill resting and wattering. 6 o'clock were are now quartered for the night, in the woods, 5 miles from Wincester, we are all very tired and very much fatigued. We left behind us beautiful fields of wheat, already cut and shocked which I suppose will all be destroyed by the enemy. As we passed along to day Sunday. the people were not in their harvest fields cutting wheat, every thing is left to the mercy of the enemy.

July 8th Monday

6 o'clock. Fine morning. I suppose we will go on to day. 10. o'clock we have moved our Camp about 1 1/4 miles towards Winchester in the woods. We have water to carry about 1/2 mile. 6 o'clock we have battallion drill this evening. We are camped about 100 yds from Harpers Ferry and Winchester R. R.

July 9th Tuesday

8 o'clock, It is a very warm morning and we have Company drill at 10, 3 o'clock John Edmondson brought us our baggage &c He went to Winchester and opened all our baggage, and brought us some of our things, all mixed up to gether half of the men got none of their things. Capt. Middleton came with them and brought us some of our tents, and we are putting them up. 5 o'clock It is raining very hard now, and we have to stay in our tents we have only 2. we will have hard times to night I expect. 9.o'clock we got orders whist retiring to our bed to pack up every thing but what we were sleeping on, and put them in the wagon. after that to draw rations and cook it that night for the next day

July 10th Wednesday

7 o'clock. We will start in a few minutes I guess, We are going towards Winchester 12 o'clock. We are now near Winchester The Militia are throwing up breastworks here about 1/4 mile from town, and our cooks (McClure Campbell Mullen[45] and Charlton S.) went to cooking 4 o'clock we had a very hard rain this evening. I was very damp and cool last night.

July 11th Thursday

9 o'clock. It looks like rain again. Thought the sun came out beautifully this morning. The Rockbridge Artillery go a very large piece of cannon yesterday evening.

July 12th Friday

Fine day. The Richmond (Thomas) Artillery came here today. Messrs Deaver[46], Rollins[47], Caffrey[48], Lewis[49], and Charles Tanquary[50] are all here now.

July 13th Saturday

moved our tents on a line with the others 5. o'clock, We were this evening transfered to the 4th Regt Va. Vols.

July 14th Sunday

No battallion drill at 6 or Company drill at 10 We have been laying in our tents all day Mr. Laird of our Co returned today we had Dress parade this evening.

July 15th Sunday

5. o'clock we were reviewed by Gen Jackson[51] today. after that, had drill and Dress parade 8 o'clock. (night). we were ordered out went to Headquarters, in the yard around the house. halted stacked arms, we were then orded to lay down, and keep perfectly quiet, so as to surprise the enemy if they attacked the house. 2 or 3 men wer detailed to go after our blankets, some of the Regts were ordered to tear down some old houses near here. to get axes, cut down the brush and trees &c. We were in the yard about an hour, were then ordered to go to our quarters, which we did without being distured any more.

July 16th Tuesday

Cloudy, I think it will rain shortly. We understand that the Yankees are coming on, they drove our Cavalry in, they are now at Darksville

July 17th Wednesday

No drill this evening. Dress parade pleasant day, warm.

July 18th Thursday

ordered to pack up and be in readiness to move. 11 o'clock not moved yet. 3 o'clock we are now on our way to Manassas Junction. 9. o'clock (night) we have to cross the Shenandoah river, we have to wade, the sick were put across in boats. The Artillery men rode across on their Caissons and Limber boxes. We then crossed the Blue Ridge, and got to a little town (Paris) at the foot of the mountain about 1.o'clock

July 19th Friday

We took up line of march again this morning at 4. o'clock, giving us only about 2 hours rest we came on to Pidmont [sic] Station[52]. got here about 6.o'clock. we remained here until about 2 o'clock when we took the cars for the Junction. When we had gotten about 2 miles from Winchester, a general order was read "That Gen Patterson[53], was marching by way of Harper's Ferry, and was going on to Manassas Junction. and that they were right there now and that we were going to reinforce Beauregard[54]. It took us about 6 hours to cross the Shenandoah river. It is a forced march and we have to get there as soon as possible. we got to the Junction about 4. o'clock this evening. we will remain here at the Junction to night I guess.

July 20th Friday

We moved down about 4 miles towards Centreville to camp this morning. 2 o'clock we were drawn up in line of battle in a corn field near here. We can easily see the Camps of the Enemy across the hills.

July 21st Sunday

5 O'clock A.M. we can hear the cannon firing from the hills in front, and a little below us, The Yankees are endeavoring to draw un in that direction. The Junction is strongly fortifiyed, with breastworks and entrenchments around in every possible direction. 8 o'clock they are now fighting in a hurry above here about 2 miles. we are moving briskly in that direction.. The enemy still Cannonading below.. Actium is our Countersight and and Sumpter [sic] our Watchword. our Regt the 4th was ordered to different places at 1 o'clock PM we was ordered on the field our Regt and the 27th was drawen up behind 8 peaces of Artilery[55] and was ordered to lay low we lay there for 3 1/2 hours had several men killed there. then we was ordered to rais and fire and charge bayonetts. There was an Awfull fire kept up The yankees had flanked round on our left had planted six peaces of Artilery & had A cross fire on us when we we charged the yankees fell back and we captured their artilery The ground was covered with dead & wounded George Chapin[56] and myself was togather when Miller[57] was wounded I was struck with A peace of shell and was helped of the field by John Donald[58] & John Middleton When we got to the fence in the rear it was Capt. Letcher[59] who got Mr John Laird.s horse for me to ride to the camp A distance of 3 miles aide camp [aide-de-camp] Marchell[60] came to camp with Me General Jackson came in at dark Mr Right[61] of our Company got him something to eat and gave him some of our Boys blanketts to sleep on The company did not all get to camp tonight Leiut Paxton came in None of our officers was hurt all come up safe We lost in the R[ockbridge] Rifles. Fred Davidson[62] and Asbery McClurer, Wounded, Bourger[63] Neff[64] Rollins Moody[65] Press Davidson[66] Miller. Northern[67]. Parks[68]. Rahle [Reilly]. Wallace Ruff[69]. In the Artillery (Rockbridge) None killed, wounded, Jack Jordan[70], Brockenbrough[71], and Singleton[72]

July 22nd Monday

It is now raining very hard, and has been all night. the wounded on the battle field must have suffered greatly last night. It is a very muddy and disagreeable day. A great many more forces came to the Junction today I went to the battle feild to help bury the dead the Awfulls scene I evir witnessed In my life hundreds of dead & wounded on the feild yet the yankees sent in a flag of truce and got some of thier wounded

July 23rd Tuesday

The sun came out beautifully to day It is very pleasant today. The Artillery brought in the Captured Cannon &c today

July 24th Wednesday

Nothing of importance going on today

July 25th Thursday

Fine morning very pleasant.

July 26th Friday

All has bin quiet to day

July 27th Saturday

Cloudy today I think we will have rain shortly. 4 o'clock. we were ordered to pack up &c. 5 o'clock. we have moved our brigade Camp. about 1/2 mile towards the battle field. near an old house. we have gotten our tents again McCampbell came back to our Co. again from being detailed with the Artillery

July 28th Sunday

Foggy this morning. This day was appointed by the Confederate Congress as a general Thanksgiving day. No duty to day except guard duty, lO.o'clock the sun came out beautifully this morning. 4 o clock it is very cloudy now and thundering very hard we will have a shower shortly. 6 o'clock we had a great storm. It thundered and lightened in a hurry. We kept dry though in our tents, we had dinner and supper together today

July 29th Monday

Drill at 7.A.M. It is raining a little Co. drill at 10 o'clock. We had a considerable shower about 8 this evening.

July 30th Tuesday

None of us got breakfast in time to drill this morning. We drilled at 10 It is very warm to day. 2 Rifledcannon and 2 Caisons passed here just now for the Rockbridge Artillery

July 31st Wednesday

Fine morning. I think it will be very warm to day. we had no breakfast at our Company. This morning Some of them eat this morning's bread last night, We were put into Messes this evening.

August 1st Thursday

It is raining very hard and has been all morning. It looks like it would rain all day. We will have no duty to attend to today 3 o'clock we are ordered to cook every thing and be ready to march at 5 o'clock in the morning. Turpin

August 2nd Friday

Got up early this morning, packed blankets &C. struck tents and got ready to move. We came on to Centreville and camped about 1 mile from the town towards Fairfax C.H. (Camp Harman) This the camp in which the Yankees camped before the battle of the 21st July, Their old brush tents and still here. we have very good water here though a great distance to carry it.

Aug. 3rd Saturday

Fine morning. Lieut Paxton came back from Lexington last night he brought 3 new recruits with him, and Seal[75]. Champ[77]. Radford

Aug. 4th Sunday

This will be a warm day I think Had Dress perade at 5. It was read out that the Rockbridge Rifle Co. was transferred to the 27th Regt Our Company didn't go to Dress perade. This is great dissatisfaction in the Co. [over the transfer].

Aug. 5th Monday

A fine. though very warm day. We have struck our tents, and packed our baggage. We are going to move over to the 27th Regt. 11. O'clock we have moved over and have pitched our tents, and are now clearing away the brush &c and burning it.

Aug 6th Tuesday

Fine morning, had drill this morning Capt Letcher is now acting Colonel of 27th He does capitally.

Aug. 7th Wednesday

Warm day. had drills as usual today. Nothing of importance going on today.

8th Thursday

Warm day. Had drills at 7 and 10 this morning. Lieut Paxton is on special duty at Headquarters.

Aug. 9th Friday

It is a cloudy morning. It looks like rain, They are paying off the 5th Regt today. At battallion drill they make two Co"s of ours. We are ordered to be in readiness to move without baggage At 10. o'clock. Prince Louis Napoleion passed here yesterday He is now at Centreville We are going to Centreville to pass review before him. We went to town and passed the review, It was a great Military display certain. We had a great thunderstorm this eve". there was no 5 o'clock drill

Aug. 10th Saturday

Fine morning. It was very foggy this morn but the sun came out and it is now very warm. We received our pay this morning, we got $42.00. It is clouding up again. I think we will have more rain. We had no drill this eve. but Dress perade.

Aug. 11th Sunday

The sun came out beautifully this morning. but now (7 o'clock) it is getting cloudy. We had a great shower last night it drove several of our boys out of their tents

Aug. 12th Monday

This is a damp morning, still cloudy Lieut Edmondson

Aug. 13th Tuesday

we had a considerable rain this morning about 7 o'clock. It is still cloudy, though the sun comes out occasionally. It is windy and cool this evening. Chas Rollins came back last night. We drew rations of Potatoes today.

Aug 14th Wednesday

It is cloudy and cold this morning Loker[81] is talking of going home tomorrow

Aug 15th Thursday

Fine morning. Jim Holley hasn't gone yet. 9 o'clock Jim has now gone. Had drills this morning. 11 o'clock we hear cannonading in the same direction as before. Cloudy now.

Aug 16th Friday

Pleasant day. S. McCampbell went to the Junction to day. It commenced raining about 12 o'clock today and has kept up all evening it is very disagreeable.

Aug 17th Saturday

Still cloudy and windy. Mr. Thomas Deaver, got a discharge today from the Gov. No drill today too rainy.

Aug 18th Sunday

we have now been in service 4 months. It is still damp and cloudy. There was no drill at 6. this morn. still cloudy and very disagreeable. No drills this eve Nothing going on to day, unusual

Aug. 19th Monday

We had a very hard rain last night. We have no drills this bad weather. It is very muddy. and disagreeable weather, too muddy for drilling purposes &

Aug. 20th Tuesday

It is still cloudy and damp yet we will have more rain yet. 6 o'clock (in the evening). it has now cleared off beautifully. 8. o'clock this is a beautiful moon vvvvlight night.

Aug 21st Wednesday

This is a fine beautiful morning perfectly clear. We didn't have any drill before. breakfast. I suppose it was on account of being too muddy. We had drill at 10. o'clock. The Staunton Band[82] is here now. These are beautiful moonlight night now

Aug 22nd Thursday

we had a little rain this morining still windy and cloudy. Wallace Ruff came back last night The sun comes out occasionally but goes back again. Our Quartermaster [Sgt. Henry T.] (Campbell) had to draw Crackers, we also drew potatoes again

Aug 23rd Friday

We got orders last night about 9 o'clock. to fall in with guns and accoutrements. we did so. our guns were inspected, and the No. of Cartridges taken. it then commenced to rain, and we were ordered to disperse, &c. We got orders, to day to put our guns in order & c. We got orders to fall in, and leave every thing but our Canteens Haversack &c. behind. the sick were left to cook. and sent it on. Our Brigade then formed, and marched to Fairfax C. H. We got here about 7. We went a little yon side of the town We were halted we were then ordered to march back, All the force about C. H. has moved farther down towards Alexandria. They had a little skirmish below there, they drove the Yankees back a piece. When we got back Jim Holley had come with boxes Ac for our Co.

Aug 24th Saturday

This is a fine clear morning, though windy and cool. Jim Holley brought a great many boxes with him. One for me also We had a fine time last night eating &c.

Aug. 25th Sunday

Fine day. We are ordered out again today. We formed, marched down about 2 miles towards Fairfax C. H. about face and marched back again

Aug. 26th Monday

Fine morning. We had Co drill at 10. o'clock. and battallion drill at 5 It was read out at Dress perade that Lieut Edmondson was appointed Adjutant of 27th Regt. and that there was to be a regular price paid for things brought there by hucksters for sale. It was also read out that we should have Reveille at 5. A.M. breakfast at 7. sick call at ¢¢ o'clock. We have 4 drills a day.

Aug. 27th Tuesday

Cloudy today. We had a little mist or rain several times today. We drilled 3 times today. We had no battallion drill on account of rain.

Aug 28th Wednesday

we were ordered this morning at 5 to pack up, get breakfast and be ready to march as soon as possible. Cloudy morning. 9 o'clock are now about 1/2 mile from C.H. resting and waiting for orders We heard that the Picquets had a little skirmish with the Yankees yesterday, below C.H. Killed 4 Yankees and took 8 prisoners. Our men drove them from a hill there. (Nason's) and took possession of it. Washington City, and Alexandria can be seen from it after resting and waiting here near CH for about 2 hours. We were ordered to about face and return to our camp again. It has been raining almost the whole day.

Aug. 29th Thursday

Still raining, and I think will continue all day. We have orders to draw and cook 1 days rations and have our Canteens filled with water. 1 o clock we have not yet gotten any further orders. 3 o'clock it has now stoped raining and cleared off a little. 7 o'clock no orders yet.

Aug. 30th Friday

Fine morning, the sun came out beautifully. We got orders to clean up our quarters for Inspection. We had no dress perade to day

Aug. 31st Saturday

A clear and beautifuly morning we were ordered this morning to pack every thing portable up put on our knapsacks Ac. we were then formed, marched out in the field for Inspection and Muster roll, call, we then went to our quarters, and after dinner, got orders to pack every thing up, and strike tents. We then moved out of the woods into the field, pitched tents &c. we are now fixed up again

Sept 1st Sunday

Fine morning, though a little cloudy and cool Ordered to fall in with knapsacks, guns &c for inspection. We have had no drills yet, we had dress perade.Jim Holley goes home again tomorrow

Sept 2nd Monday

Fine morning. Jim hasn't gone, 12 o'clock he will go to the Junction this eve" We had battalion drill at 8. Co. drill from 11. to 12. It is very warm to day. The Officers are all making off their pay rolls.

Sept 3rd Tuesday

Pleasant morning very warm to day. Our Company got permission from Capt Letcher to go to the Creek and take a bath &c. We didn't have any drill until 5 3 o'clock. Lynch,[83] who left us at Winchester, came here today.

Sept 4th Wednesday

It rained a little, though very little this morning, early. But the sun came out and it is now very pleasant. I am beginning to think that we will have some creapers in camp shortly. We had no drill at 2 battallion drill and dress perade at 5. We have Tatoo at 8 1/2 o'clock. and Taps at 9. o'c. The drum is beating Tatoo now.

Sept. 5th Thursday

We had a considerable shower last night. about 2 o'clock. 7 o'clock It is very cool, cloudy, and windy. I think we will have more rain to day. 8 o'clock we were ordered to fall in for battalion drill, we marched out to the field, Maj Grigsby[84], then ordered us to break for our quarters, it was raining too hard 10. O'clock, no drill still raining, very muddy and disagreeable.

Sept. 6th Friday

Very foggy this morning. I think it will clear off today. we had our usual drills. Col Massie[85] has gotten back. he was at our quarters this eve Northern has also gotten back. also

Sept. 7th Saturday

Very foggy this morning. we were ordered to strike tents, and let our baggage &c dry and air. At 10 o'clock Lieut Lewis marched us down to the spring and back. that was all the drilling we had then. We have now to clean our guns for inspection. tomorrow.

Sept. 8th Sunday

Fine morning though cool and windy. Head inspection this morning. Mrs Gen Jackson[86] came here today. Bishop Johns[87] preached at Headquarters this eve". Had dress perade as usual

Sept. 9th Monday

We heard that Jim Holley had gotten to the Junction yesterday. Tuck Thomas[88] and Crawford [89] went up to help him down with the boxes Ac. The Sergt. is calling for us to fall in for battallion drill Jim came this eve with the boxes &c.

Sept. 10th Tuesday

We got permission to take another wash. A beautiful morning. we will have no duty to perform until 5.

Sept. 11th Wednesday

A very pleasant day, drills as usual to day. Gordan[90] & McCampbell got permission to go to Centreville to day. It commenced raining very hard about 3 o'clock this evening. It rained as hard as I ever saw it.

Sept. 12th Thursday

It was too muddy for drill at 8. we had the other drills though. It is a very fine day overhead. Nothing unusual going on today.

Sept. 13th Friday

It is very warm to day. We went out on battallion drill, and Just made a "right wheel by Companies" and then a left in to line wheel. Capt Letcher then gave us orders to appear on perade at 10 1/2, for review. we were then marched to our respective camps. Genls Johnston. and Jackson reviewed us we were out about 1% hours we all had a very pleasant time last night. It was a beautiful moonlight night

Sept. 14th Saturday

A beautiful day, warm, and, pleasant..We got orders just now to strike tents and let our blankets &c, air and dry. We had no drills to day. Capt Letcher went up to the Junction to day. This is a beautiful moonlight night. clear. and mellow like.

Sept. 15th Sunday

Very warm and pleasant morning, We had review as usual at 8. o'clock Dress perade at 6 1/2 o'clock. We got orders to pack every thing up &c. and be ready to move by 8 o'clock in morning We are going towards Fairfax C.H. We are going to move our Camp there. Mr Norgrove[91] came here this evening

Sept. 16th Monday

It is a little cool and cloudy, though a capital day for travelling we are fixing up our things now and getting ready to march. At 8 we all fell in and moved off as wer came on, we heard tremondous cannonading in direction of C.H. we came on within 2 miles of C.H. and turned in to the right about a mile. we are here halted to camp we are about 1 mile from CH. and not far from Fairfax Station. The Station is now our Post Office. We are camped here on a high hill. a very bad place for water. Worse than Camp "Harman". Jim Holley is talking of going home again. he is talking of not coming back again. This is ("Camp Fairfax")

"Camp Fairfax"

Sept. 17th Tuesday

Very foggy this morning. Jim Holly started home this morning. We had a tremendous Thunderstorm this evening about 4 o'clock. The sun came out afterwards beautifully. The rain got in our tents and was about to wash us away.

Sept. 18th Wednesday

Very foggy.this morning. we all went out and cleared off a piece of ground here in the woods. we had dress perade this evening (not uncommon.)

Sept. l9th Thursday

It is a little cloudy this morning. There was Company drill from 11 to 12. We had drill also from 3. to 5. and dress perade. Nothing going on to day uncommon

Sept. 20th Friday

Little foggy. We are getting breakfast now. we had drill from 10 to 11. and it was almost intolerable warm. we had as usual drill from 2. to 3

Sept. 21st Saturday

Pleasant day. We had battalion drill at 9 o'clock this morning. we will have no other drills today we have to police our quarters now. We have some great game of Quoits here. Capt Letcher and Lieut Lewis, take an active part in it. 6 o'clock. It is now raining very hard.

Sept. 22nd Sunday

Very windy, and cloudy today. The wind came near blowing our tents, we didn't have review this morning 4 o'clock. We now hear great Canonading. below the C.H. One of our Picquet was killed down below the C. H.. He was buried this evening. Sergt Boude[92] has just called for us to fall in for dress perade

Sept. 23rd Monday

Pleasant day drills as usual today. We had a little disturbance last night over at the Wheeling Company[93]. Kothing worth mentioning transpired today.

Sept. 24th Tuesday

One of the Lieuts in the Alaghaney Co.[94] who was taken prisoner at Manassas fight of 21st July, escaped from Washington. and got here safe last night. He tells wonderful stories of his narrow escapes &c. It is a little cloudy and cool today. We had our usual drill today. The 4th Reg came back off Piquet this evening

Sept. 25th Wednesday

Fine day. It was very cool last night. Loker came to camp again from Hospital., We will have go down on Picquet tomorrow I expect, down towards Mason's and Kunson's Hills. Yes we have to go to morrow.

Sept. 26th Thursday

We are now making preperations to start on Picquet. We came on through Fairfax C.H. and are now resting and watering at a Pump about 4 miles from C.H. Capt Letcher is in command so far. It is very warm travelling today. We started off this morning in great glee as usual. 2 o'clock we are now on Mason's Hill, We Can plainly see the Theological seminary near Alexandria. The river is in plain view. We can see 3 schooners floating beautifully on the waters oh! how beautiful is the view I cannot describe it. Magnificent, Picturesque. grand We can see for miles, away across the blue waters of the Potomac, into the land of the Yankee The waters lay as placid as eve. We can see the flags flying in the Camps of the enemy. We can see their breastworks. and entrenchments. &c. We can see the smoke issuing from the Yankee Camps. As the scene is too magnificent for me to describe. Ill pass on, we soon got orders to go to Munson's Hill When we had gotten here, Were were again ordered to return to Mason's Hill. Which we did. We got there about 6 o'clock in the evening. We were then put on Picquet.

Sept. 27th Friday

It commenced to rain last night about 8 o'clock. and has been raining ever since, It is now day break. We can hear the Yankee drums beating Reveille. We can occasionally hear the repeat of agun. The Picquet firing at one another. The Yankees drums have been beating all morning. We can plainly see the Yankees. on guard. They wave a white hankercheif at us. They have white flags waving. We can see them moving about in every direction. It is raining now very hard We have to keep under shelter the best way we can. we are all waiting for breakfast now, The Yankees keep waveing their flags, for us to meet them half way, to have a talk &c. Laird and McCluer went and met 2 or 3 of them. One of them said he had a brother in one of the Va Regts his name was Butt. When we were releived we went to our quarters on the hill It did rain terribly, and the wind blew awfully, we had to cook in all the rain and wind. 10't o'clock (night) we were ordered to get ready to get a way from there as quiet as possible, the wind blew. It was a perfect hericane. Cold ("good gracious", we marched off. and about 12 o'clock. (at night) got to Anadale [Annandale]. (a little village about a miles west of the Hill.) We here made some fires. There was the greatest excitement, I ever saw. the enemy was advancing it was thought, Munson's Hill was also evacuated great excitement prevails. All our Picquet hadn't gotten in yet The Wheeling Co. was left behind. It was thought they were taken prisoners, We remained here for orders &c until 3 o'clock. the following morning.

Sept. 28th Saturday

We (Our Company) got orders this morning about 3. o'clock, to go back to Mason's Hill, and see about the Wheeling Company and if they were taken prisoners to rescue them at the risk or cost of our lives. We went in advance of an other Co. We had also a battery behind us. Which Col Preston[95] said should protect us. We all moved back. every person we met said the Yankees were at the Hill. and were advancing. We moved on, determined to see them out, if we died in the attempt. We sliped along a little piece and then would halt awhile and listen. Then move forward again a piece and so. on. till we got to the Hill, without seeing or hearing any thing of our men (Wheeling) So we concluded we would go down, where they were posted, the Moon was shining beautifully, and reflected upon our bayenets &c. We sliped along cautiously We at last got to the post. "Merabile dictu." They were all there on their posts, and knew nothing of us leaving the Hill &c. We got them and came on back. much rejoiced. It seems our Sergt Major, was afraid to go to their posts and releive them after the Regts left the Hill. The forces in this part of the Country are all falling back. towards the C.H. We, all. came on apiece towards the C.H. and halted about 2 miles from Anandale There we went into a field and got breakfast &c. we will remain here all day I guess. We hear the Yankees are at Munson's and Mason's Hills.

Sept. 29th Sunday

We stayed here last night. near Anadale. It is difficult to get any thing to eat here. Captain White's Cavalry Co.[96] passed here just now going to Anadale. The Yankees havn't gotten there yet. One of our men was shot last night. We hear wonderful stories of the Yankees advancing &c we were put on Picquet, this evening We expect the Yankees to make their appearance every minute.

Sept. 30th Monday

We were releived off Picquet, this morning by the Monroe Guards[97]. The Yanees are still advancing slowly. 3 o'clock. they have a balloon[98] up now trying to find our position. We can see the balloon very plainly. It is about Falls Church we think. It looks beautiful. We can see the basket with two men in it. It stands in one place. It has again gone down. Jim Holly came back Sunday and brought some things for us

Oct. 1st Tuesday

Fine morning. thought it was very cool last night. The balloon made its appearance again this morning, in the same place. We are still here near Anadale and about 4 miles from Fairfax C.H. It is time we were releived. We can see the blackest kind of smoke rising towards Mason's á ~tunson's Hills. We are all looking at it now. The Yankees are burning houses, and every thing as they come. They are now about 1 mile from Anandale. It has been very warm all morning. It is clouding up now 12 o'clock) We have nothing to eat here but corn and Potatoes. 5 o'clock. We moved down under the hill, to conceal ourselves. The grass is very high here. We have hard time cooking here

Oct. 2nd Wednesday

Very very foggy this morning. We are all getting breakfast now, Press. Davis [President Jefferson Davis] is at the CH., and has been for some time. I hope we will be releived today, so we can go back to our camp near C.H. 8 o'clock. it has been raining almost the whole morning Major Grigsby, gave us orders this morning to get dinner, and be ready to move. I think our Releif has come and we are going to camp at last 12 o'clock. not raining but still cloudy There is some talk of us going to Western Virginia. but I suppose it's all a hoax.[99] We have great times here roasting corn. Thought it is getting most too hard. We will start shortly for our Camp.

Oct. 3rd Thursday

Foggy again this morning. We started yesterday about 5 o'clock (eve) and got here about 6 o'clock. We came in a hurry. It has [been] very warm all day. we have fixed up again in our camp.

Oct. 4th Friday

Fine morning. pleasant. John Donald and Jerry Rilley got their discharges to go home. they started this evening Capt Letcher is promoted to Lieut Col in some Regt. Our Co. wants to go with him. we have up a paper to the affect, and all have signed it. The Capt is going to Richmond shortly. We will have to elect a Capt now.

Oct. 5th Saturday

Pleasant day. we have no flour this morning, have to draw corn meal Laird was sent to Greenbrier County to see about some deserters. 8 o'clock we received orders to pack up every thing except what we realy need put them together by the time the wagon comes around. They are going to send them to the Junction. The wagon was packed and sent off to the Station. Wright & Northern were the guard. 5 o'clock The Sergt called to us to fall in, that Capt Letcher was going to tell us goodbye. Which we did, the Capt commenced at the head of the Ranks, and shook hands with all of us. He cried like a child. He is going to Richmond first I believe

Oct. 6th Sunday

We understand that about 30,000 of the enemy crossed the river at the mouth of Aquitink [Accotink] Creek. night before last, They are having a bread oven built at the Station, Mr Waltz[100] is going to bake for our brigade, We had inspection at 9 this morning. Sheltmans[101] gun took the premium. thought it was hard to decide between his and McCouns [McCown's]. It is a little windy to day. The 4th Regt started again on Picquet today There was peaching [preaching] at Headquarter's in a barn this evening.

Oct. 7th Monday

Cloudy this morning, I think we will have some rain shortly. There was inspection this morning, Drill at 2. P.M. after drill, had an election, as follows.

J. K. Edmondson - Cap't
P. C. Boude ---- 2nd Lieut
G. W. Chapin ---- 1st Sergt
A. W. Varner ---- 2n "
McCampbell ------ 3rd "
Campbell ------- 4th "
Gordan -------- 1st Corp
Mullen -------- 2nd "
Davis --------- 3rd "
Rollins x x 4th "

We had a great shower this evening, It will be very disagreeable to night.

Oct 8th Tuesday

We had a tremondous storm last night. The guard was releived last night. Cloudy, and cool to day, I will be cold tonight

Oct 9th Wednesday

It was very cold last night, and is still so this morning. The result of our Election was read out on dress perade this evening, 2 o'clock still cloudy. and cool. Nothing of importance transpired.

October" 10th Thursday

Cool today. Had battallion drill at 9 o'clock. 2. o'clock our Company and the Monroe Guards joined together and we had a battallion drill, single ranks formed into Companies we had a capital drill certain, 4 o'clock there is a very heavy mist or rain falling now. Tuck. Thomas is going to Harpers Ferry. to see about some clothes. which our Company left there.

Oct. 11th Friday

Pleasant morning. though a little foggy Drill as usual at 9. It is a ldttle windy now. The whole brigade is out in the field now they are passing in review, or something. Gen Beauregard Johnston and an English Gen. are all over in the field reviewing

Oct. 12th Saturday

It commenced to rain last night about 10 o'clock. and rained all night very hard, We all got pretty wet. It was also very windy. The sun came out this morning. though it was very cold It is reported. that tomorrow is the appointedKfor a great battle here They got a barrel of whiskey today for us soldiers. I suppose they will commence giving it out in the morning.

Oct. 13th Sunday

It is windy and cool. Campbell gave us our gigger this morning. Last night was a beautiful night. we had review at 9. Dr Pendleton preaches over at a barn near Headquarters at 4 o'clock. It was a very pleasant evening not withstanding the wind. We all feel lazy today. Had dress perade as ususal.

Oct. 14th Monday

Fine pleasant morningw we had battallion drill as usual, We drill at Pendleton's Battery this evening at 2 o'clock. We went over went through the drill, came back and went on battallion drill. We went through 2 or 3 movements, when Col Echols received a dispatch. We were then ordered in. and ordered to pack up and be ready to move, (on Pisquet again I suppose) about 5 o'clock. the order was countermanded, the order was we didn't go till morning.

Oct. 15th Tuesday

we cooked our bread last night, we got up this morning about 3, o'clock. and packed up and got breakfast. We have just packed the wagon. We will start directly. this is a beautiful morning. We came on to the Toll gate. where we camped before and turned off to the right by the spring, we came on the road about 1 mile, from the main road, we releived the 5th Regt" 3 or 4 of the front Companies. went on Picquet, immediatly after we got there, As we wer3 6th Co. we didn't have to go first. We have Capital water here, and a creek running along by our camp. we have made brush huts, Our Mess has finished our hut. ("Cabin home"). We heard considerable firing down about Anandale this morning. McCampbell Hartigan. S.A. Gordan and myself concluded we would go over to the Turnip patch. We got some Turnips &c as as we came back. we stoped at a beautiful spring. there a while, and talked about things generally, Sandy and myself went up to the house near there and tryed to get some brandy. but it wouldn't go. We had a very pleasant time there at the Spring

Oct. 16th Wednesday

Got orders this morning. to draw off Picquet get breakfast as early as possible. and be ready to move back. We started and Came over to the "Braddock Road" came on about 3 or 4 miles. Col Echols here received a dispatch. to send back 4 companies, to Aquitinck Creek. (A creek where we came into the Braddock Road) Consequently. The Wheeling Co., our Co., Aleghany Co. and Greenbrier Co.

Oct. 17th Tuesday

We got orders yesterday evening (after we had fixed for the night) to go back and Join the rest of the Command. it was Just getting dark.~we came on to where we had left the Regt. but they had moved on about 1 mile. Supper was ready for us when we got there. We ate supper, and immediately moved on again to within 2 or 3 miles of Centreville. When we go orders to go back about 1 mile, to a small creek, we came on back, and, our Company and 1 or 2 others had to go on Picquet. It was very dark. and we were almost broken down. We were certainly tired. We were releived this morning at 12 We came to Camp at Creek. fixed up to start again on another tramp We are now packing the wagon now we understand that our troops are burning us all the public buildings about the Station [Fairfax Station]. and elsewhere. Most all of our forces have fallen back to Centreville. It is now rainings we started to go towards Centreville. met the 3rd Alabama Regt it releived us here. We got orders immediately to go over to the Turnpike (main road to C.H.). we were ordered to keep perfectly quiet. We started. and it commenced to rain very hard, we had and awful time., it was so dark we could almost cut it with an knife we came out in the main road about 2 1/2 miles below Centreville, and came on the road towards the C.H. about 1 mile we stoped on a hill here It rained on us all the time. after we got some large fires built, we didn't get much sleep, too wet and disagreeable We got plenty to eat though. disagreeable disagreeable.

Oct. 18th Friday

Still cloudy. We have got marching orders again. We marched to the left of the hill about 2 mile. here we were halted. We sat here till about 4 o'clock this evening. We then came to about face. Came back about 1 mile, halted in the woods. Col rode in a field near. and ordered the Capts of each Company to come too. When they came back. they ordered us all to stack arms, take of[f] accoutrements &c we then marched out in the field on the hill, and went to making a breastwork out of rails &c. when we came back we were ordered to go to cooking every thing we had, and then to pack up every thing, and be ready for action at any moment. to sleep in rear of our guns. 6 o'clock P.M. It has cleared off now.

Oct. l9th Saturday

Very foggy this morning. we were not disturbed last night. we have had nothing to do to day. we had a little rain about 2 this evening.

Oct. 2Oth Sunday

Windy to day. Our Company has orders to go on Picquet today, 10. o'clock. we are now on Picquet, in the Alexandria and Winchester Road Leesburg road &c. We hear heavy firing out to the right of us, The Countersign is = Inkerman, We have the same old signal. Halt any one, throw up the left arm, he whom you halt must then take off his hat or cap. and pass it down below his face. If he fails to do this "Fire". this is the day signal.) The night signal is the sentinel strikes his leg 2 or three times with his hand. the person whom he halts. has to cough 2 or 3 times or clear his throat, if he fails to do this. "Fire" at him. We were releived about 11. o'clock today. We came on to Centreville, we got here about 3 o'clock P.M. Joe Neff. Kahle[104]. and H. Smith[105] were here Bill Kahle gave us a treat this evening. Our forces are fortifying here in a hurry.

Oct. 21st Monday

Cloudy and a little windy. Our Messes were rearranged yesterday. The noncommissioned officers are heads of the different messes now. we had nothing but dress perade today

Oct. 22nd Tuesday

Raining this morning. very disagreeable We have a hard time cooking in the rain. It rained all day. we had no duty to day. except Retreat

Oct. 23rd Wednesday

Cold, very, this morning. the wind blows very hard. Had dress perade at 5 o'clock. Grisby is now elected Lieut Col. and Paxton is appointed Major of 27th Regt. (ours)K

Oct. 24th Thursday

Cold morning. Had an election for 2nd and 1st Lieuts. consequent of Paxtons promotion. Boude was Elected 1st Lieut Chapin 2nd Gillock[106] 4th Sergt in Campbell's place (resigned)Northern, Orderly [lst Sergeant]. Had Company drill at 3.P.X.

Oct. 25th Friday

This was a beautiful morning early. but now. 10 o'clock, it looks like snow. Chas. Cizer[107] came back yesterday from Hospital Dr Graham[108] (old man) was at our camp to day

Oct. 26th Saturday

The sun came out beautifully this morning but now (9 o'clock) it is very cloudy. looks very much like rain. Rev. Dr. White[109]. came to this camp to day. The Co. is out on battallion drill now. We have just got orders to strike tents to dry our baggade &c There are several Good Bands near us here, they play beautifully. Nothing new

Oct. 27th Sunday

Fine cool windy morning. Dr. White preached at our Col's tent at 10. after preaching . Gordan McCampbell and myself took a walk up the road a piece. got some persimmons &c when we got back Jim Holly had gotten back from Lex. with George Johnston[110]. Dr White preached at 4th Regt this evening.

Oct. 28th Monday

Awful cold to day. Drills as usual. Have to clean up quarters today. Nothing new today.

Oct. 29th Tuesday

We got orders to strike tents today to air the ground, dry cloths &c. Drills as usual nothing new.

Oct. 3Oth Wednesday

Gov. Letcher[111] came here today. It is very pleasant. though a little windy we had review to day. The Gov" brought some flags with him. which he is going to present to the Va Regts this evening ¢ o'clock we had a grand presentation this eve. The Gov presented flags to all the Va Regts

Hanger's diary ends abruptly here. The remaining pages have been torn out of his small notebook, and may have continued the diary. Hanger was wounded at Gaines Mill on June 27, 1862. In March of 1863 he transferred to Company C, 5th Virginia Infantry, an Augusta County unit, the "Mountain Rifles". He was wounded in the head and leg at Chancellorsville in May of 1863. While on leave he married Naomi Francis McCormick in Lexington on March 12-, 1864. Hanger returned to duty and was captured with most of his regiment at Spotsylvania Court House in May, 1864. He was fortunate enough to be exchanged in November of the same year. During December of 1864 he deserted to the Union forces at Clarksburg, West Virginia. Hanger took the oath of allegiance and was released. a ther his bride accompanied hiS is unknown. His wife is believed to have died early in life and he remarried in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Hanger later moved to Dayton, Columbia County, Washington. He died there on May 16, 1918 and is buried in the Dayton City cemetery.