October 18, 1861 – Our Army Correspondence

Camp McClellan
Davenport, Oct. 11, 1861

DEAR JOURNAL: –Here we are at last, the members of Capt. Ben. Beach’s company, snugly ensconced in comfortable quarters at Camp McClellan. We are not disappointed as to the position of our camp; its location is beautiful and healthful, but at present thoroughly “muddled” from recent rains, which causes us some inconvenience in “navigatin ;” however. I think one or two days of this beautiful sunshine will dry things up.—

We arrived at Davenport at 7 o’clock Thursday evening, where our friend and fellow soldier, Capt. Charles E. Compton, was waiting to receive us but owing to the inclemency of the weather, we were directed to the Railroad depot, which was furnished us for temporary quarters: While supper was being prepared for us at the Le Claire House, we amused ourselves in sundry ways, singing and dancing being the chief amusement. At the hour of 9, the company was formed and marched down town, where we engaged in supplying the wants of the inner man. Supper over, songs were sung by the “Sardine Club,” the performance closing with Charles Fowler’s inimitable woman’s rights speech, which was loudly applauded by the curious spectators.

October 4, 1861 – The War and Slavery

West Liberty, 9th month, 22d, 1861.

Friend Mahin:—It seems very strange to me, the present condition of this government, and very humiliating its future prospects.—On the one hand we see American slavery arraying a mighty host against this nation to give it battle, for to secure its own enlargement and perpetuation, no other principle whatever at stake, and no other pretence made, its war cry destruction, desolation and ruin, not only to this government, but to every principle of justice, humanity and virtue.

On the other hand, we with amazement be hold a once mighty government giving battle to this monster rebel, calling on “all true sons of freedom” to join the army to put down rebellion, and re-establish a Union (that never existed only on paper) between the north and south; and what for? Just for the sake of having the privilege of paying the expense of and sustaining in this government one of the most abominable systems that ever the sun shone upon. Why not behead the monster while he has his head on the executioner’s block, seeing he has laid it there himself? Why turn our army into slave catchers?

Want Soap Factory

“Over four carloads of soap have been shipped into this city since January 1, while enough soap making material has been sent out of the city in that time to…