CHAPTER XV.
THE BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA.
FIRST DAY.
At 2 o’clock on the morning of the 19th of September, we passed our former camping ground near Lee and Gordon’s Mills, and about one mile beyond, came to a halt. The weather was very cold, but fires were not allowed, and every one was cautioned to remain as quietly as possible—to keep our stations, and be prepared to obey any orders that might be given.
Although the men were weary and nigh worn out, yet they cheerfully obeyed, as all well knew that danger threatened, and it behooved us to be on our guard.
It was well that this caution was taken, for at daylight, the booming of artillery and the rattle of musketry proclaimed that another battle had commenced.
The enemy, in part, were stationed in a piece of woods near the banks of the Chickamauga river, but in a short time they attempted a flank movement, and the lines of both armies were at once changed. At 9 o’clock the engagement became general, and the enemy now made several desperate charges, but were as often repulsed with heavy loss. At 11 o’clock, the battle raged with great fury, but both sides still maintained their ground, and frequently a fierce hand to hand conflict ensued. Charge after charge did the Rebels make in heavy body upon our sturdy lines, and as often were they driven back.
Our Battery was exposed to a hot and galling fire, but we maintained our position through the entire day, the guns belching forth a continuous sheet of flame. Several of our men were wounded in the engagement, but none were killed. Lieutenant Baldwin still commanded the Battery, and here, as well as at Stone river, he displayed great coolness and bravery.
At dark, hostilities ceased, only to be renewed with greater fierceness on the following day.