REVIVAL IN THE CAMP

General Bragg began his retrograde movement toward Chattanooga in June (I think), very wisely concluding to draw the Federals farther from his base before risking another general engagement. General Wheeler covered his rear, which the enemys cavalry assailed very vigorously, using their batteries freely.This continued until we passed over Cumberland Mountain, both armies losing quite a number in killed and wounded, some prisoners being taken. After passing the mountain a lull in the operations of both armies ensued. The Confederate infantry had passed on to Chattanooga. Wheelers cavalry, reaching the Tennessee River, passed over the bridge at Bridgeport on the plank flooring that had been laid upon the girders. After reaching Shellmound, on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, General Wheeler was ordered to go to Rome, Ga., with a view to recuperating his much-jaded cavalry horses. Here we remained for two months or more and had the only real rest that we got during our service in the army. Rome was then a pleasant little city of about five thousand inhabitants, surrounded by a rich and fertile country. Wheelers Cavalry Corps numbered about five thousand, rank and file. The quartermasters of the respective regiments would buy a field ofcorn, move to it, and remain until it was exhausted,and then move on to another purchase. The horses would be fed on the corn,stalks and all, using a plentiful supply of salt, besides grazing them on grass for an hour or two each day. It was wonderful how they improved, and by the time we left there they looked as if they had been prepared for a State Fair. The soldiers, too, were supplied with an abundance of substantial and wholesome rations. The strictest discipline prevailed. Drills were the order of the day,with both officers and privates,at least two hours each morning and evening. Prayer meetings and services by the respective chaplains were held regularly, were well attended,and many conversions took place. Drs. Bunting and Hendricks,our brigade and regimental chaplains,were kept busy and active in their duties, and we know that many lasting and substantial conversions were made through their efforts.

From "The 4th Tennessee Cavalry Regiment" by Major George B. Guild.

Thanks to:

Bill Hicks
Tennessee Confederate Flagger
S.C.V. Camp #2083