During the Civil War, newspapers frequently published correspondence written by soldiers and sailors at the front. Some servicemen took the opportunity to act as quasi-reporters for particular publications, ensuring that their views and opinions regularly appeared in print. In May 1864, letters from an Irishman who went by the pen name Garryowen began to appear in the pages of the New York Irish-American. Over the course of the months that followed, he wrote at least 25 letters that were made available to readers. Though the identity of Garryowen is unknown, we know he served as a Fireman aboard the ironclad USS Onondaga, and was presumably (based upon his chosen nom de plume) a native of Limerick. His correspondence offers a detailed insight into Union naval operations on the James River in the last year of the war, particularly with respect to activity at the Dutch Gap Canal, an effort to bypass a bend in the James and in so doing avoid formidable Confederate forts. The letters describe in detail the Onondaga‘s operations, including the actions she participated in, the construction of the canal, and interactions with the Confederates. There are frequent insights into life aboard ship: how the men passed the time, camaraderie and tensions among the crew, and the occasional excitement brought about by famous visitors, such as Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Francis Meagher. Garryowen was also an ardent Democrat and Fenian, and often took the opportunity to outline his positions on politics in both America and Ireland, providing an excellent insight into views that were shared by many serving Irishmen. As an addition to the Resources section of the site, I have sought to gather and transcribe Garryowen’s correspondence for the benefit of readers. Below you will find 25 of his letters, written between May 1864 and April 1865, which amount to over 20,000 words of correspondence from this Irish sailor. If I identify any further letters from Garryowen I will add them to this resource. The date of their original publication in the Irish-American is contained within square brackets.
A view of the U.S.S. Onondaga on the James River during the American Civil War (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 14 May 1864]
THE MONITOR “ONONDAGO”
U.S. MONITOR “ONONDAGO,”
JAMES RIVER, May 3, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- I am in receipt of my old friend and companion, the IRISH AMERICAN, for which I return many thanks. As I promised that you should hear from me occasionally, I will redeem that promise, though my facilities for writing are very meagre, however, the few spare moments I have I shall devote to letting you know of our progress since we left New York. We weighed anchor and proceeded from the Navy Yard on Monday afternoon, the 18th ult., and went down without any accident or interruption as far as Sandy Hook, the ship working to the satisfaction of all concerned; the weather being considered boisterous, we remained opposite the “Hook” until the Thursday following, when we started on our mission of death and destruction, for which purpose our “iron cave” (as I may call it,) was constructed. Saturday morning Cape Henry lighthouse hove in view, which indicated a speedy arrival at our then destination and about 10 o’clock we anchored off Fortress Monroe. We remained here until evening, when we went further up the river about ten miles, where we are now at anchor, fully prepared for any emergency. Our armor, or fighting material, consists of four heavy guns, two in each turret, of fifteen inch smooth bore and eight inch rifle, respectively, together with numerous small arms.
Our ship, it will be observed, is constructed with all iron, even the deck, with the addition of a timber deck laid over the iron one. She is considered one of the most formidable of the Monitors, and is looked upon to accomplish great results, as it is supposed that no shot can take effect on her, and when in action, all hands are down below, every man at his post. We are bound for “On to Richmond,” and, of course, will find it a “hard road to travel,” of which, however, I intend to keep you posted. More soon.
Yours very truly,
A GARRYOWEN BOY.
Officers on the deck of the U.S.S. Onondaga. (National Archives)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 28 May 1864]
FROM THE IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGO”
U.S. MONITOR “ONONDAGO,”
JAMES RIVER, May 10, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- On the 5th instant we started with the “James River Expedition,” to combine with the army in the taking of “Richmond.” The expedition consisted of about a half dozen monitors, ten or fifteen gunboats and a numerous quantity of transports and tugs with troops on board, which they landed at a given point. The day was beautifully fine, and the mustering and starting of so many vessels was indeed magnificent, while it conveyed the impression that some hot work was near at hand, which “Uncle Sam’s” boys are eager for, in order to subdue the rebellion at once and go home. Nothing of importance occurred on the passage to attract attention until towards evening, when, while near as far as we wanted to go, a rebel “torpedo” struck the gunboat Eutaw, and sank her and some of her crew. So many stories are told about her that I can’t decide which to send; perhaps it is no difference. Enough that the boat is a total loss, with the most of her crew. So much for rebel ingenuity.
We are quietly lying at anchor here, twenty miles below Richmond, with everything ready for action at a moment’s notice, as our Lieut. Commander Cushman, is a most energetic man, and one the “rebs” will find hard to catch “napping.” Last Sunday morning, he addressed the “boys” on a matter of morality and discipline. He referred to reports reaching him of thieves being among the crew, as several articles, such as money, clothes, &c., were missing. He was sorry such was the case, but he could not admit that thieves were about; he attributed the loss to the forgetfulness and carelessness of the men themselves in putting away things for safety, and forgetting where they put them. He [illegible] several instance of this and cited them; but [illegible] disgraceful epithet of thief be discovered and attached to any one he should [illegible] him at once. He then congratulated the crew on their manly bearing and their willingness and despatch in obeying orders and promptness in executing them, and several other themes which I have not space nor time to mention. He spoke in a feeling, good-natured manner, which character fully abides in him, together with being a gentleman, a seaman, and a scholar.
The fire department, that most important part of the ship, is ably and skilfully officered, the chief engineer, Mr. Henderson, being a gentleman of superior mechanical attainments, and of a kind, friendly disposition, and unceasing in attending to his duties, of which he is a perfect master. His assistants, Messrs. Hull and Lewis, are equally assiduous in performing their duties, and are accomplished gentlemen, the latter being rather more communicative than most officers of this rank are- pleasant and agreeable, and will crack a joke with the boys, and with all that, get their work done up to the mark. Take them all in all, we have a good set of officers, a bully crew, and a ship that defies all the shot and shell the rebels will let fly at her; and when Richmond is taken, as it must be, and the rebellion subdued, then we will head our iron monster across the Atlantic and anchor in “Bantry Bay,” where we will soon plant the “Green above the Red.”
Very truly yours,
A GARRYOWEN BOY.
USS Onondaga on the James River (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 11 June 1864]
FROM THE JAMES’ RIVER FLEET
U.S. MONITOR “ONONDAGA,”
JAMES’ RIVER, VA., May 26, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American
While the roar of distant cannon is daily ringing through our ears, and while the hostile parties on both sides of us are measuring their strength and manuring the soil of Virginia with their hearts’ blood, we are remaining comparatively idle in the James, notwithstanding that the sensational reporters of the New York press would have their readers to understand that we have been in three or four engagements. Now, for the information of your half million readers, such are simply lies, concocted, no doubt, to magnify the importance of our presence here, and to gratify a hungry public with sensational news. Of the movements of the army I cannot say anything; but until such time as they can approximate the defences of Richmond much more closely we don’t expect to make any successful movement; at which time, however, you may rely that the Monitors will render a good account of themselves, especially the Onondaga. When she gets within range of Fort Darling, you may rely on seeing rebels scatter, with shot and shell in hot pursuit after them. Though not actually engaged in fighting, we are improving the time by making every preparation-occasionally sending one of our messengers of death through the woods to keep off prowling guerillas, as we now and then get reports that they are locating themselves along the river. In such cases we proceed to the scene of operations, when they seem to anticipate our movements and make themselves scarce.
I am just in receipt of a letter from home with the announcement that my young friend and companion, John Nash, had also joined the navy and sailed in the steamer or gunboat “Ostego” for these quarters. Well, just before the arrival of the letter bearing this intelligence, the steamer had passed us, going further up the river- the crew were waving their hats and handkerchiefs at us as they passed, but, not knowing at the time that my young friend was on board, I did not look particularly to see him, but now suppose he was one of those greeting us, he knowing I was on board here. The columns of the IRISH-AMERICAN have borne ample testimony to the bravery, chivalry and undaunted pluck of many an Irishman in the bloody contest now waging, but I doubt if any of them- even those who have sealed their devotion to the flag with their life’s blood- can outrival the genuine patriotism and high dashing spirit of young Nash. Having served two years in the Hawkins’ Zouaves, through all the battles they have been in, and their time having expired, they were honorably discharged; and now we find him ready to offer on the altar of his country, in a different branch of its service, his life for the preservation of those laws which secured to him and his countrymen peace and happiness. All honor to such noble principles, and may “He, who tempereth the wind to the shorn lamb,” protect and guard my young hero friend and companion, and return him safe home to the bosom of an attached father and mother and loving brothers and sisters; and may our unfortunate country soon enjoy peace, comfort and pleasure for her citizens, a consummation most devoutly wished for, but not until the Stars and Stripes shall wave triumphantly over every strip of land from Maine to Texas and from New York to New Orleans. Devotedly yours, &c.,
A GARRYOWEN BOY.
The USS Onondaga drawn by Alfred Waud (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 9 July 1864]
THE ONONDAGO IN ACTION
U.S. IRON CLAD “ONONDAGO”
“DUTCH GAP,” JAMES RIVER,
VA., June 22d, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
I avail myself of the earliest opportunity to inform the numerous readers of your journal of our recent actual engagement with the “Rebels.” The dull monotony which prevailed in this part of the river for the past few weeks was broken yesterday, by the whizzing of balls and shells around us. In order to allay the anxiety of those fond ones who are represented on board here by husbands, brothers, and sons. I will state that “nobody is hurt,” notwithstanding a vigorous fire was kept up for about six hours. Tuesday, the 21st of June, will be long remembered by the crew of the “Onondago,” as the day she, for the first time, encountered the enemy. Well and nobly she acted her part, and sustained the reputation she so richly deserves as being “monarch of all she surveys.” We were aware for some time that the rebels intended to build a battery some two miles above us on the ben of the river, and we occasionally sent a few shells daily in that direction, not having water enough in the river to ascend higher;- but notwithstanding our efforts to baffle them, they succeeded in firmly establishing themselves in the place designated. In order more clearly to illustrate our position, I might say that the course of the river in this locality resembles that of a “horse shoe”- with our four monitors, viz. Onondago, Tecumseh, Canonicus, and Saugus, at the left hand heel, the rebel battery at the toe, and the rebel iron clads at the right hand heel, from whence they can send us their respects across the peninsula thus formed, in the shape of shell and shot, which, however, is at random, as we are not visible to them, nor they to us: but their movements in the battery we can easily discern with the aid of a glass. At noon, on the day mentioned, the Tecumseh opened fire on the battery, which, to our surprise and consternation, elicited a reply from that quarter in the shape of a shell going whiz-zr-zr-zr over our heads; while eating dinner on deck under the awning, as is our wont this fine warm weather. Such a gathering up of tinpots, pans, mess-kettles, &c., &c., was never before seen, and the jokes and larks which usually prevail on such assemblages, were quietly dispensed with, and more sedate and solemn countenances substituted. A general rush was made for the hatchway; every man feeling that he had a duty to perform, and in less time that it takes to mention it, all hands were at “quarters.” We kept up a vigorous fire alternatively from both our “turrets,” accompanied by the other “monitors,” until night. The rebels, on the other hand, were no way sparing in their efforts to cripple us, as their shot and shell flew around, about, above, and below us; but failed to hit us at any time, except a small splinter of a shell which scratched our deck a little, doing no damage whatever.
What casualties occurred among the “Rebels,” I cannot say; but we observed that we dismounted one of their guns, and if not some of themselves, it is, indeed, marvellous. Today everything is quiet, and only that the President has come to visit us, everything would wear its usual aspect;- but, true enough, “Uncle Abraham” is in our midst, on a tour if inspection, I presume; he came on board here, just as I was writing, accompanied by his young son, Lieut. Gen. Grant, Major-Gen. Butler, and a host of gold laced gents of lesser note; they remained about twenty minutes, when they again departed. There were no demonstrations made, on our part, to receive them, and they came and we as other less distinguished visitors do.
Yours very truly,
A GARRYOWEN BOY.
The USS Onondaga on the James (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 27 August 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS ON THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
August 14, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- The dull monotony which prevailed here for some time past, was somewhat disturbed yesterday morning by the rebels opening upon us from their batteries and iron-clads on the other side of the Peninsula, which the curve in the river here forms. Your readers will no doubt recollect that in a former letter I compared the course of the river in this vicinity to a horse shoe, and my remembering the similitude they will more clearly understand or recognize our position. In the early part of the week, it was deemed necessary (for purposes which I am not at liberty to relate,) to transfer a portion of General Butler’s forces to the Peninsula so formed- or, otherwise, to the north side of the river- under cover of our monitors, which was accordingly done: and, in a short time, there appeared to our view quite a city of canvass houses. The enemy, as it subsequently appeared, were not slow in discovering this movement, and, anticipating further encroachments, concluded to interrupt the proceedings and give us as much annoyance as possible. As their “navy”, so-called is confined to a limited sphere of action, they availed themselves of this opportunity of giving practical evidence of their existence- (the distance from the camp to their anchorage being no more than two miles, and consequently within range,)- they commenced a vigorous shelling early in the morning;- but, providentially, our boys- as if anticipating this attack- had struck tents the night before, and moved farther back and away from the original settlement. Owing to this “change of base,” the rebels were foiled in their expectations. As it is though, they did considerable damage, having killed some 10 or 12, and wounded about 30- all soldiers. As numerous shells exploded and ploughed the parched earth about the original camp-ground, it was lucky that the change had taken place, or else the result would have been dreadful: but, taking a wide range of the country in their efforts to cripple us, a few stray shots landed in the right place and produced the result mentioned. Of course there was a great consternation about the camp, as we caw large bodies of soldiers hurrying to and fro, and unusual activity among our fleet. Everything was immediately put into fighting trim; decks cleared; hammocks “piped” up: the watch below aroused from their quiet slumbers; “all hands to quarters;” and every preparation on our part made to participate in the melee, should occasion require or an opportunity offer. our land batteries- of which there are 3 or 4- replied promptly and, I have no doubt, successfully. The south bank of the river, where they are located, commanded a high eminence, thereby affording the guns ample scope for sending their respects across to the enemy; hence it is that the bed of the river is too low to admit of our being essential participants in the affray. It is only when their “rams” or “Iron-clads” attempt to emerge from their pent-up condition, that we have a little exercise at them-an exercise that will result in another Alabama termination.
A little after the firing commenced, the mail steamer Wilderness proceeded on her way down to City Point, when a shell exploded over her, and only by her great speed she managed to evade it, it dropping right at her stern in the water. You may be sure her paddles executed some marvellous quick revolutions that time, and she “hugged” the shore closer than is customary. We tried some half-dozen rounds, but, seeing we accomplished no good, soon ceased. In the evening, Gen. Butler, with a portion of his staff, came on board and held a consultation with out brave and determined Captain and heroic Lieutenant Commander. What transpired I, of course, know not: and if I did, it would not do any one else any good. The General did not remain long, when he left for his headquarters. Thus ended one day’s operations, such as we were unaccustomed to, at least in this part of the river.
One of our seamen, named John Sullivan, a native of the county Cork, got severely wounded here a few days ago. It appears he was extricating a rifle from among a pile of them, when it went off- having been laid away loaded- the ball entering the fleshy part of his hand under the thumb, passing through the wrist, and then through the calf of his leg. The latter wound is not dangerous; the hand, it was first thought, would have to be amputated; but I subsequently learned that it would not be necessary to do so, and that he is getting along very well. He is at present in the Norfolk Marine Hospital. Sullivan was a kind, open-hearted, agreeable man, thorough going Irish nationalist, a practical seaman, and an experienced man-of-wars-man, having seen a good deal of service as such, both in the British and American navies. He told me several times that he declared on the quarter-deck of a British, in the presence of his superior officer-of course thoroughly British- that he hoped he would not die until he would avenge the wrongs done his native land by the government which he had the misfortune to serve under; a desire which he still cherishes, and hopes the day is not far distant when he can execute it. Truly might he repeated the concluding lines of one of the Immortal Davis’s best national songs:-
-“Never as a skulking slave I’ll tread my native soil on:
But were she free or to be fre’d, the battle’s close would fine me.
To Ireland bound, no message need from the girl I left behind me.”
More anon,
GARRYOWEN.
The USS Onondaga on the James (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 3 September 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS ON THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA.”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
August 21, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- Since my last addressing you, this place has assumed a more warlike appearance than heretofore, inasmuch as a large portion of the Army of the Potomac have been transferred to the north side of the James in this vicinity, where they have been hotly engaged, attended with success, during the past week. Of their immediate movements I cannot with certainty speak; nor do I feel inclined to draw on my imagination as to their results. Such an undertaking I will leave in the hands of the “indefatigables” of the New York dailies, who can pander to the appetite of a greedy public with all kinds of sensational news, true or otherwise: my desire being to furnish your readers with a reliable account of the position of affairs in this vicinity, and particularly of the part we ourselves play in this great drama of “The Life or Death of the Nation.”
The cutting of a canal here- I might say abreast of us- will, it is presumed, afford us an opportunity to develop our great power to crush the stronghold of rebellion; for, once within range of their forts and fortifications, we have no doubt of our ability to silence them and open the way for the “Grand Army” to pass through. I refrained from mentioning about this canal in my last least it might be contraband to do so: but seeing the operation fully reported in the New York dailies I feel myself no longer restrained. While on this subject I would like to ask what is the good of prohibiting one class of people from giving details- especially through the columns of a weekly paper- when another class is allowed to parade them before the world, at a time when they are scarcely commenced. Surely such information, through the daily press, reaches the rebel capital inside of forty-eight hours. But “He that runs may read.”
There has been considerable artillery duelling here this week between our batteries and the “Reb’s,” the avowed object of the latter being to annoy us or drive us away from our canal operations. But they “can’t do it.” Their range, so far, is decidedly wide of the mark, and, consequently, “the work goes bravely on.”
Gen. T.F. Meagher is on a visit to the “seat of war;” and, after viewing the canal operations, came on board our “Iron Home,” accompanying Major-Gen. Butler and a portion of his staff. Gen. Meagher was dressed in civilian’s clothes, but was soon recognized, though no demonstrations were made to convey that idea. The party remained about an hour, when they departed towards “Crow’s Nest,” where horses were waiting to convey them to headquarters.
The war clouds are hovering around us, the booming of guns are ringing in my ear as I write: and every indication that we will be soon engaged in a mighty struggle is apparent; but we have no fears, the Onondaga and her noble officers and crew will be heard from with tidings of joy and victory, that will neutralise the glorious achievements at Mobile, and cast a halo of renown over the names of Captain Smith and Lieut. Commander Cushman, equalled only by the Barrys, Perrys, &c., of our glorious navy. Hurrah, then, for the canal; and, then- “On to Richmond.”
GARRYOWEN.
[New York Irish-American Weekly 10 September 1864]
The commencement of the Dutch Gap Canal (Library of Congress)
OUR NAVY IN THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
August 29, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- The past week has closed in greater quietude than I anticipated at the commencement, as the appearance of affairs at that time warranted me in predicting. We are not, however, without showing signs of our vitality, as we daily send a few shots from our land batteries in order to “keep the ball moving;” but it must not be inferred that we have all the fun to ourselves, as the enemy reciprocate with their usual promptness, their efforts, however, resulting only in the old Abrahamish conclusion of “Nobody hurt.”
The work on the canal still goes on vigorously, notwithstanding reports to the contrary which I have read in the New York papers. Indeed, one at the scene of action is amazed at the extraordinary exaggerations which occupy the columns of that press. For instance, we were reported once or twice as being engaged with the rebel rams, and having forced them to retire. We have not the least doubt of our ability to do so, or capture them; but that such a thing happened, has no foundation outside the imaginative brains of the author or inventor of the falsehood. The rams alluded to are ensconced in some secure corner or bend of the river, at a safe distance above us; and no inducement on our part will tempt them to “come on,” a la MacDuff. As is generally known, there is not sufficient water to allow us to ascend the river any higher, or else the rebel navy would ere now have been numbered among the things that are past- hence our present inactivity. But, as it is, we are of incalculable value, inasmuch as the rams aforesaid (in case of our withdrawal) would have no formidable enemy to encounter in their descent, and would sweep the river from City Point to Hampton Roads, thereby cutting off the supplies which are absolutely necessary for maintaining our grand army in the field. Thus it is that we are the “Gibraltar of the James.” Our glorious and time-honored banner, the “Stars and Stripes,” waves defiantly and triumphantly from our flag-staff. Our noble officers and heroic crew (as fine specimens of humanity as ever decorated the decks of any navy in the world,) are eager for the fray. Our sole ambition is to re-establish the principles and laws of our government as we found them, and as they have heretofore protected us and guranteed us the right of freemen and citizenship,- and if these rights and privileges have been impeded during the prosecution of the war, the government nevertheless stands, and we mean that it shall stand. Let us, then, make on more great effort, and the rebellion that had its back-bone “broken” some time ago at Fort Donelson and Shilo, will have its pedestals knocked from under it now; when we can once more retire in peace and comfort, and spend the evening of our life with our families, under our own “vine and fig tree,” with the consolation that we have fought the good fight and restored the Union and the government which was a shield and an asylum to the oppressed of all nations of the world; and henceforth our motto shall be- “Give us Liberty, or give us death.”
Yours, &c.,
GARRYOWEN.
The Dutch Gap Canal during construction (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 24 September 1864]
OUR NAVY IN THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
Sept. 6, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- The events of the past week have been comparatively dull; in fact, with the exception of a few occasional shots exchanged by our land batteries, we would suppose peace reigned supreme. We are, nevertheless, making gigantic preparations for that eventful moment when order “On to Richmond” will be given. Our canal is progressing rapidly and favorably. Our army is making slow but sure progress- the news is cheering and healthful from all parts. Atlanta is taken, which animates us equivalent to a reinforcement of men and ships. Our courage and determination is undaunted- our faith in pursuing it, are glorious beyond precedent; therefore, in a “little while,” when the cheering news of the fall of Mobile and Atlanta will have died away with the evening breeze, will come flashing over the wires the crowning glorious news that Richmond is ours. Rely on it, the last ditch is made- the last man occupies it: but a storm is gathering, the clouds look dark and troublesome, the waves of the James seem agitated, and a tornado is about bursting forth that will sweep in its course the last vestige of rebel power and authority from the throne it so long occupies. In accomplishing this great and noble purpose I frequently marvel over the unwarrantable credit which native Americans (as they call themselves,) claim in this connection, as they preface their remarks with the expressions, “I was born and bred in America, and, as such, wouldn’t yield to no d–––––d rebel one iota,” &c. Now, it appears to me that there are men who were born and bred out of America as self-sacrificing and patriotic as many defunct knights of the “dark lantern.” “I was born and bred in America”- as much as to say, I have more interest in the affairs of my country than you who have come here dependent on our hospitality and industry. Away with such cunning, narrow-minded expressions- it would be superfluous to refute them. But I would tell my “born and bred in America” friends, that the history of this war will chronicle as much, if not more, imported heroism, bravery, pluck, gallantry, and devotedness to the American Union than any “born or bred” fanatic can lay claim to. Such expressions are calculated to alienate the ties which should bind the native and adopted citizen, and the sooner they are discontinued the better. “That’s what’s the matter.”
Several refugees, contrabands, and deserters have come on board this last week; in fact, we have more or less of them every day, and their reports of the condition of the Southern people is humiliating, if we could indulge in any compassion for them; but that they are tired and sick of the war, there is no doubt, and only pant for the opportunity to safely declare themselves so. Our middling-well-to-do Northern families ought to consider awhile on their situation and that of their Southern neighbors- rebels though they are- and thank God they are enabled to keep “the wolf from the door,” and not have him prowling about empty culinary departments, as in the case of the “first families of Virginia.”
GARRYOWEN.
A USCT picket station near Dutch Gap Canal (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 8 October 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS IN THE JAMES RIVER
THE NAVY AND ARMY SURE FOR McCLELLAN
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
Sept. 26th, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- The calm which precedes the storm is evidently upon us, as these last two weeks have passed over us tolerably quiet enough, though our quasi friends are determined that we should hear from them occasionally. I dare say they wouldn’t have any great objection to our stayinf here, if we’d only keep still; but when we keep cutting canals-erecting signal stations and “lookouts,” so as their movements can be discovered and immediately signalized- they can’t endure it; hence they employ all the faculties of their artillerists to annoy us, and, if possible, dismay us. To this end we daily receive their compliments, in good, round, solid shot and shells, from “Howlett’s Battery” and others in that vicinity. The great objects of their wrath are the canal operatives, in whose direction they have wsted an immense quantity of ammunition, without accomplishing any result, and the new signal tower recently erected by General Butler. This tower is built on a bluff known as “Crow’s Nest,” and is about 160 feet high from the bed of the river. It commands a view of Richmon and the surrounding country: and, consequently, of great annoyance to the enemy, who spare no efforts to demolish it: their balls fly in every direction about it, but so far have failed to hit it; and during this terrible target shotting, the “look outs,” on duty on top of it, remain, with signal-flag in hand, as unconcerned as the boy on the tree stealing apples, when the old man pelted him with tufts of grass. As our anchorage is immediately under this tower, you may guess we are kept on the qui vive; and though it may appear strange, it is nevertheless true, that this cannonading-though kept up vigorously- scarcely receives from us a passing notice, now that we are so accustomed to it. It was not so in the beginning, when we would hear a report of a gun it would attract our attention, and looks in all directions would be given to see where it came from; but, being metamorphosed into “old salts,” we now keep on the even tenor of our way, merely exclaiming, as the balls go whizzing bu us, “Go in, lemons.”
On last Wednesday and this morning, we were served with an extra dose of their medicine; they distributed their pills with an unusual degree of lavishness- in fact, we thought pandemonium was let loose upon us; but a few of our fifteen-inch and one hundred and fifty pound rifle soon ceased their vomiting, not caring, no doubt, to indulge too free in a game that more than one can play at.
We have had an unusual number of deserters from the “rebs” this week, who give a most gloomy account of affairs from where they left. The narratives of their escapes would furnish a few excellent items for the indefatagables of the dailles, and probably one or two from “your own” may not be out of place. It will be observed that their army at “Howlett’s Battery,” and in that neighborhood, are only divided from ours by the river, and this is one great obstacle they have to overcome in order to reach us: the other is the great difficulty to evade the sharp look-out kept upon all men, as there is a perfect reign of terror and surveillance on them; but, not withstanding all this, a man determined to be free, will be so at all hazards. Some that I have conversed with, escaped in this manner: They would procure a plank, and hide it away until their opportunity arrived; then taking advantage of the darkness of the night, and if two are together- which is generally so- they pile their clothes in a bundle on the plan, and one go to each end, paddle with one hand and hold on with the other- and, as “Leander swan the Hellespont,” so they go. Once on the other side, they are within our lines, and find no difficulty in reaching us. As our captain is senior and division officer, we are the flagship pro. tem., and consequently all deserters, &c., are conducted on board her for examination, from whence they are sent North, rejoicing. Another instance of escape, and I am done on the subject. An intelligent (not contraband), well-educated young man, who was book-keeper in Richmond, ran the gauntlet from there this week and related to me his modus operandi. He was returning from dinner to his place of business, when he was tipped on the shoulder and told to “mark time,” and then toddle along to the camp of instruction for new recruits. “It’s a military necessity,” said his captors; and having no other alternative, go he should, and did. He got to the camp about 4 o’clock, and was for two mortal long hours a rebel soldier, when he skedaddled at 6 P.M. and headed for Yankee land. He is a shrewd, calculating young man, and knew how to “dodge” his jailers. Having a reasonable share of “Confederate scrip,” he secured the services of a guide for $150, and exchanged $360 (Confederate) for $10 in greenbacks; but his guide stole away from him at a particular period, when he then had to go it alone. Previous to stating, he procured a military coat, cap, haversack, and rifle. Thus equipped, he got along very well until he came in sight of the pickets. Fearing they would discover him, he lay down in a brush pile at the end of a corn field, not daring to stir; and to make matters worse, the pickets would turn their horses (they were cavalry) into the corn field to fodder, and would not be more than five or six yards from my hero. They took turn about at this business until morning, when they scattered; and my friend availing himself of this opportunity, started again, after being al night in the one predicament, not daring to stir. He did not go far, however, when he met another line of pickets (infantry), who immediately observed him. He was sure this time he was “gone up.” Seeing a picket approach him, he screwed himself up and prepared for strategy, which his “gift of gab” enabled him to do. Addressing the picket, he asks him-
“Any of our men pass around here?”
“What men?”
“Captain Clark’s scouts.”
“No; haven’t seen them. They might be around, though.”
“I know they are,” quoth skedaddler, “for I parted them a few minutes ago. I reckon I’ll find them.”
And he passed on without further ceremony or suspicion. His next difficulty was to find the way, which he did after great privation and hardships, he being 58 hours coming a journey that might be accomplished in six, and all that time without food or water. He is a Canadian by birth, and evidently able to account for himself. He was perfectly well satisfied with our manner of treatment, and expressed himself so; as, in fact, all of them do, as well they might, for they receive the same rations as ourselves, and are welcomed as though they were our brothers.
I fear I am trespassing too much on your valuable space; but I crave your indulgence this time, as there is one topic to which I cannot well refrain from, and that is the deep rooted and matchless sympathy of our “boys” for General McClellan. The surrender and occupation of Richmond by our troops could not have elicited more applause than his nomination at Chicago did; and his subsequent letter of acceptance caps the climax. Since the days of Jackson, no such candidate has appeared before the American people: and his election will be as unanimous as his nomination. Republican papers may labor under the belief- and try and gull their readers into the same- that the army and navy are not for McClellan; but I know the contrary. Let peace men dodge the question as they may, and clamor for peace on any terms, we want no such howl as that; we want only the peace which McClellan can permanently secure to us- the Union, the whole Union, and nothing but the Union, “at all hazards.” We (the crew of the Onondaga,) would suffer our bodies to be driven as a stake and burned, rather than submit to the Jeff Davis oligarchy; but, from recent information, I know that now he don’t represent the feelings or wish of the Southern people. With McClellan in the White House, the Southerners will lay down their arms, return to their allegiance, and “sin no more.” Rally, then, around our glorious young Chief; and in the ides of November such an overwhelming victory will be gained as to echo from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and across to our own dear native isle, cheering the despondent and elevating the down-hearted, whose throbbing hearts beat pitifully at the scenes enacted on this side of the Atlantic, their only refuge from tyranny and oppression.
Yours, very truly,
GARRYOWEN.
The USS Onondaga at Aiken’s Landing during a prisoner exchange (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 22 October 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS IN THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
“DUTCH GAP,” JAMES RIVER, VA.,
October 17th, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- Since the late advance of Gen. Butler’s forces to the north side of the river, matters have remained comparatively quite hereabouts; but it having been observed from our signal tower that the enemy were strengthening their position, we immediately determined to dislodge them. On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, we opened on them from both turrets at intervals, and on Wednesday evening we kept up a vigorous fire for about three hours, during which time we drove them from their rifle pits, scattering them promiscuously. They considered that locality rather too hot for them, and have taken themselves to more secure quarters. We have likewise “squatted” a large portion of prisoners around the canal “diggings” to protect our operatives in that important work, so that hereafter, any shells bursting around these will tell fearfully on the rebels themselves- a la Charleston. Since this move, their firing has been like an angels’ visits, “few and far between,’ and the week’s war news might be summed up thus, “all quiet on the James.”
Since my last, we were visited by Admiral Porter, who, it appears, is to command this fleet, and not Farragut, as was reported. From Admiral Porter’s reputation, and ably assisted as he will be by our gallant Captain (Smith), who is one of the most skilful and experienced officers in the service, you need not be surprised at hearing stirring news from here shortly. Preparations are going on which will startle the nation, and cause such a panic in the gold market, as to create a furore.
The coming Presidential election is daily assuming more preponderance, and as the time is approaching, the chances for “Little Mac” are increasing. If the action of the crew of the “Gibralter of the James” be any criterion- and I see no reason why it should not- the hero of “Antietam” will receive an overwhelming majority in the navy, and, as far as I can see, in the army, also, in this vicinity. Last night at “quarters,” an informal vote was taken, as to how the crew stood, and out of about 160 men there were seven or eight in favor of the author of “To whom it may concern.” As the names were called out it was amusing and cheerful to hear- “for Little Mac”- thundering forth from everybody’s mouth (with the exceptions mentioned). The “Sweet German accent,” mingled with the rich “Irish brogue.” And to give “Caesar” his due, our officers took no occasion to manifest any displeasure at the result- they cheerfully admitting that every man had a right to choose for himself without fear or intimidation, and armed with this assurance, our “boys” went in with a will, determined that the “exile of New Jersey” should once more lead them to victory.
Rally, then, ’round the “Flag,” with a statesman, patriot and chieftain (tried in the balance)- at the helm, and our glorious frigate, “Constitution andUnion” will float off the breakers, and being thoroughly overhauled and refitted will be once more launched out and the trembling tyrants of Europe will be made shed tears of repentance for their aid and sympathy to a cause the most damning in its character, and the most mischievous in its proportions.
“The army and navy will make tyrants tremble,
And three cheers for the ‘Red, White and Blue.'”
GARRYOWEN.
The transport Linda of Philadelphia and possibly Onondaga in the background (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 5 November 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS IN THE JAMES RIVER
NEGROES BUILDING CELLS- A SECONF BOAT-RACE
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
“DUTCH GAP,” JAMES RIVER, VA.,
October 31, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen- Notwithstanding the apparent inactivity in military affairs, we are always busy at something or other in order to occupy our attention, and drive dull care away. To this end we prepared to make a short trip down the James on this day week, which was immediately carried into operation. The morning was beautiful and calm, old Sol peering over the tree-tops in all his majesty and splendor, dispelling the thick, murky fog which prevailed earlier in the morning, the fresh autumnal breeze pierced through the air, and all nature was gay. The loud mouthed cannons had not as yet commenced their daily avocations, and the lonely sentinel paced his beat on the parapet of “Battery Sayers,” with eager eye watching our movements. The first object which attracted our attention was the work on the canal, or great “Yankee ditch,” which is being put through by American citizens of African descent, in such a manner as to meet the most sanguine expectations of its promoters. The “quarters” wherein the “sable sons of liberty” are domiciled are the most ingenious structures of modern times. I have seen the “caves’ in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where the “chivalry’ sought shelter from Yankee “hail-stones,” but the caves of the “Ethiopians” of Dutch Gap surpass any underground burrowing contemplated yet, not excepting the catacombs of Rome. For half a mile on each side of the canal fronting the river, these caves are dug out or tunnelled, resembling pigeon houses,- or as a writer has it, “a colossal honey comb;” some of them having excavated fronts or open cuts, in the rear of which through a square aperture you find entrance into the inner circle, where the emancipated children of Adam are masticating “hard tack” and “salt horse” with impunity. There are, I suppose, a couple of thousand of them around this settlement, one-half of whom work at a time. On our return trip we saw our colored allies in their various employments- some improving, making additions, and building fireplace in their “covers;” while in another direction a small group might be seen wending their way with measured step and sorrowful countenances, bearing on their shoulders a deceased comrade, and having arrived at a lonely, secluded spot on the hill-side, depositing their burthen without any show or demonstration.
“Few and short were the prayers that they said
And spoke not a word of sorrow,
But quickly closed the grave on the dead,
And bitterly though on the ‘morrow.”
Nothing of any particular note occurred since then (save shelling the “Johnnies” occasionally), until Friday evening, when another boat-race was proposed by our sporting boys, who are always on the alert for fun. The report of the race in the IRISH-AMERICAn- which, by the way, is the recognized organ of the Onondaga– created quite a sensation “about deck;” in fact, it fell like a bombshell among us, all of whom gave it a cordial endorsement, save one, and he considering himself the “beau ideal” of nautical perfection, did not like to have his mane connected as coxswain of one of the defeated boats. Shakespeare has enlightened us as to what’s in a name; but I am at a loss to know what”s in my friend’s name that he should object to its being used in connection with a news item; at all events, he foams and splutters a good deal about it, which he had better reserve, as if he indulges in any more invectives I will take occasion to “show him up,” and dishevel the overgrown capilary vegetation of his physiognomy. But to the race. The boats entering on the first race were the “Life Boat,” Mr. Emmons (seaman), coxswain: “Gig,” Mr. Reed (Paymaster’s clerk), coxswain; “Whale Boat,” Johnny Morrison (Champion of the James), coxswain; and the “Launch,” William Martin (seaman), coxswain. They were all manned with as rollicking a set of tars as ever spliced the main brace. The distance to be run was about one quarter of a mile, around the tug Alert, laying ahead of us, and back. Having got fairly abreast they started “neck and tuck,” the “Whale Boat” coming in ahead. The crew of the “Launch” still believing they could whip the “Whale Boat,” tried it over again with the same result. Pending this race, our Lieutenant Commander picked out a choice crew for the “Gig,” fully determined on beating the “Whale Boat’ at all hazards. This match was agreed to cheerfully- Acting-Master Hays this time action coxswain of the “Whale Boat,” Morrison taking the stroke-oar, and Lieut. Commander Cushman acting coxswain of the “Gig.” Great excitement and enthusiasm was manifested in this race, and bets were freely offered and taken up. But to be brief, the two boats getting into line, the word “all ready” was given, and away they went, jerking through the water like porpoises, stem to stem, until nearing the tug, when the “Whale Boat” gained her own length ahead and made the turn first. But here comes the dilemma. Mr. Hays allowed her too much scope in turning, which, taken advantage of by the adroitness of Mr. Cushman, enabled the “Gig”to gain her lost ground, which she maintained with stubborn tenacity; the “Whale Boat” in the meantime close on her heels (if she had any), and when nearing our vessel the “Gig” was about an oar’s length ahead, when one of her crew- sure of victory- tossed his oar and swung his caubeen in the air, cheering heartily, when lo and behold you, the “Whale Boat” men gave a long pull, a strong pull, and pull together, which “dodge” shot them ahead and enabled them to gain the starting point first, thereby causing the “Gig” to lose the race- so say the “Whale Boat” men. In this contest both parties claim a victory, like our war veterans on terra firma; but fairly speaking, the “Gig” was ahead coming in, and would keep so only my enthusiastic countryman on the bow oar became too premature and excited; on the other hand, if the “Whale Boat,” on rounding the tug, kept her rudder “hard down” and backed on the starboard oars, instead of taking the wide sweep she did, she might throw a tow line to the “Gig,” and thus enable her to come in at a respectable distance behind her. Laying all jokes aside, it was a spiritedly contested race, and reflected great credit on the respective crews who acquitted themselves gallantly. I doubt if another vessel in the Navy can furnish such noble representatives of the “bone and sinew” of the land, as the crew of the Onondaga, and her brave and skilful officers. Speaking of the officers, reminds me to say that they were no party to the conniving manner in which the Republicans though to secure our votes; on the contrary, our efficient officers to a man repudiated the movement, and exerted themselves to guarantee each man the right and privilege to vote for whom he pleased, a privilege which was taken advantage of, thereby augmenting the chances of “Little Mac.” It is due to our officers to make this statement as an opinion to the contrary might prevail.
Yours, truly,
GARRYOWEN.
Confederate Battery on the James (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 3 December 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS IN THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
‘DUTCH GAP,” JAMES RIVER, VA.,
November 13, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Yours of the 28th ult., containing New York Electoral and State tickets, came to hand in good time, and I succeeded in distributing them beneficially; but the packages for this ship, sent by express, did not arrive till the day after the election, consequently they were of no use. However, owing to your forethought, we had enough without them. I am sorry at the result of the election; but it cannot be helped now, and we have only to make the best hand we can of it. You must excuse my not writing so regularly of late, as we have now little or no leisure time: the change of Admirals and of our Captain causes this, as all returns have to be made up. The utmost quiet, though, pervades here- nothing of any importance stirring. We still occupy the same position, and all hands are well. As, no doubt, many of your readers will be looking for your usual correspondence from this quarter, I make a note of this state of affairs for their information. At my earliest convenience you shall hear from me.
Yours very truly,
GARRYOWEN.
The USS Onondaga on the James (Library of Congress)
[New York Irish-American Weekly 17 December 1864]
OUR IRON-CLADS IN THE JAMES RIVER
U.S. IRON-CLAD “ONONDAGA,”
DUTCH GAP, JAMES RIVER, VA.,
NOV. 28, 1864.
To the Editors of the Irish-American:
Gentlemen,- The source from whence, for some time past, the opposition to my writing emanated having been removed, or, in other words, the gentlemanly officer who objected to it having been transferred to another vessel, I feel at liberty to again resume my correspondence with you, as I believe that our home friends are always anxious to hear from us, and of our movements so far as the same can be made public; and, as the IRISH-AMERICAN is in every one’s hand, I am determined the movements of our “iron sentinel” shall not be a mystery to them.
Since my last, nothing of any great importance, in a military or naval sense, has occurred; everything is comparatively quiet, though our pickets near “Howlett’s House” were surprised one night last week and a few captured. They however, subsequently, recovered their lost ground, but not the prisoners. We heard the noise and yells consequent upon this attach, and prepared ourselves accordingly; but there was no sight for us, and we did not “sail in.”
Last week witnessed our final boat race for the season, which resulted in our champion “Whaleboat” being beaten by the “Launch,” much to the satisfaction of some of the boys, who felt a little jealous of the growing popularity of the “whaleboat” and her chivalrous young Coxswain. My friend Cameron, who, by the way, is a noble specimen of a jolly man-of-war’s-man, was Coxswain of the “Launch” on this occasion, and is consequently the successor to the championship; but this should by no means detract from the reputation of the ex-champion of the “Whaleboat,” as he truly says it is no disgrace to lose one race out of three.
We have had our Thanksgiving Festival, and indeed the patriotic parties who were instrumental in getting it up are deserving of more than an ordinary share of praise for the creditable manner in which the affair was managed, as we received an abundance of Turkeys, &c., which made the berth deck resemble a poultry market on a small scale. After all being served the work of dissecting commenced; the cooks “pulled off their coats and rolled up their sleeves,” transferred the gobblers to the upper deck, and went through the process of immersion in the James with the said gobblers. On Thanksgiving morning the “galley” was the centre of attraction- roasting, baking, boiling, stewing, and all the pharaphernlia of the culinary department brought into requisition and under full headway. At the usual time, eight bells announced dinner, when there was a simultaneous attack on the enemy. Talk about storming the enemy’s works, and taking them by assault, but the attack on the defenceless gobblers throws Sherman’s flanking movements in the shade; for, in less time than it takes to tell it, they had all disappeared before the terrible onslaught of the sturdy sons of Neptune; and thus was fought the great battle of Thanksgiving on the James.
Having this temporarily enjoyed ourselves, had we no thoughts of those dear, fond and loving ones at home- did the question occur to us, what kind of a Thanksgiving had our wives and little ones? Oh, yes! It could not be otherwise, though we felt somewhat consoled and assured that the same bountiful and patriotic hands that provided for us, would not see them want for their Thanksgiving festival, as no luxuries, no comforts, no encouragement is so acceptable to the soldiers or sailors as the assurance that our families are not neglected. Let us only hear that they are looked after and cared for, and no dangers, no risks or privations will be too much for us to endure or encounter; with a willing cheerfulness will we strike the foes, and with our strong right arm to the rescue, our once happy, united and prosperous country will again take her place among the nations of the world, a terror to traitors at home and enemies abroad.
In the evening, while we were congratulating ourselves on the happy events of the day, we received a salute from our pugnacious friends- the “Rebs.” Having discovered a new iron-clad- the “Mahopac”- they determined to give her a welcome in the shape of mortar shells from “Howlett’s Battery,” in which exercise they indulged to a considerable extent. Their shots were aimed mighty accurate- one of the shells having hit the “Mud Digger,” at the canal, in the ribs and sent her to the bottom. At this juncture we were called to quarters, and commenced firing a few of our 15-inchers, scattering terror and dismay among them, which soon caused them to cease their vomiting. For about two hours a brisk cannonading was kept up by both parties, which resulted in immense quantities of metal being wasted, and “nobody hit.” About dusk it was “all quiet on the James” again and remains so yet.
Lieutenant Commander Cushman, commanding this vessel, has been order to the “Wabash,” and left on Thursday evening, and Commander W.A. Parker has taken his place here. This change makes us Flag Ship for this Division and the Commander Divisional Officer. Our old crews’ time is expiring now every week, and the boys are going home- in twos and three at a time. Of course new hands fill up their places. Among the last that left us I must mention my kind friends, John Mulligan, Richard Jeffers and Patrick Kirk, three as pleasant and genial “sons of the sod” as ever broke “hard tack” or eat “salt hoss.” Their uniform conduct and behaviour while with us had earned for them the esteem of all their shipmates, which was testified by the cordial adieus which they received when departing from us. As this will probably meet their eyes, I take this occasion of returning my heartfelt and sincere thanks to my friend Jeffers for the precious present he bestowed on me some time ago, and he may be assured that I will kindly remember him every time I use it.
There are plenty of rumors afloat here as to our intentions, none of which I can trace to any reli